could any one tell me about the Dearmonds. found a S73c looks ok. It is not made by guild. As far as I can tell there were Guild - Dearmond By Guild And Dearmond. Dearmond being the lesser in Quality Would the pickups be the same in a guild dearmond as a dearmond etc.................
Dearmond
- Thread starter kydog
- Start date
Walter Broes
Enlightened Member
None of them are "made by Guild", they're made in Korea or other Asian countries, some of them have the "Guild" truss rod cover, others don't.
A lot of the models are Guild-inspired, the line was thought up by Fender as budget Guilds, to be to Guild what current Epiphones are to Gibson.
A lot of the models are Guild-inspired, the line was thought up by Fender as budget Guilds, to be to Guild what current Epiphones are to Gibson.
Qvart
Senior Member
Walter Broes said:
That's how I describe them to people too, and also why I ended up not playing mine a whole lot when I had so many Guilds lying around!
kydog said:
I don't know what the pattern was with using "made by Guild" vs. no "Guild" anywhere on the guitars. But that one I had was definitely not one of the cheaper cheapos, and it didn't say Guild on it anywhere.
There were some variations in the D'Armonds, most notably pickups and bolt on vs. set necks. If you're looking for an S-73 I'd say watch for one that is set neck and has the D'Armond Gold Tone pickups. The pickups will say D'Armond on them and have two strips around the pole pieces that resemble the raised ridge pattern of the Guild HB-1's. The cheaper versions have bolt-on necks and some other kind of pickups (don't know what they are off hand, but they are just plain-looking with flat chrome covers).
Here's the one I used to have (tele4tone has it now):
As you can see it is basically an S-100, pretty much just like the '90's reissues, except there's no phase switch at it has a tunematic/Gibson-style stop tailpiece instead of an angled brass Guild-style one (I think some of the D'Armonds had those though). There doesn't seem to be any difference in quality based on the "Guild" name, and this one doesn't say Guild on it at all. I don't think any of them were better quality than this one, so just watch out for ones that are even more budget-level than this.
Overall, compared to a Guild, the D'Armonds are just cheaper quality (especially the tuners, hardware, binding, inlays, etc), but the platform is basically an S-100 body.
What is the "c" in "S73c"?
Good luck!
fronobulax
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I was once told that "D'Armond by Guild" indicated that the instrument had been built (out of the US) to Guild specifications and that it had been inspected and set up by Guild technicians in the U. S. prior to shipping to a U. S. retail dealer. This would be in contrast to Maderia which means the instrument was just built to Guild specs.
I'm probably wrong and hopefully I will remember if corrected
I'm probably wrong and hopefully I will remember if corrected
When Fender first contacted out the DeArmonds, they were built in Korea. After a short time (2 years?) they were moved to a plant in Indonesia. My understanding is that only the Korean made DeArmonds carried the "by Guild" label, and I can verify that the Starfires from Korea are of a higher quality than the Indonesian ones I've seen. I have a Korean made Starfire Special (patterned after a Guild SF III), and I have seen an Indonesian one as well, it's not the same. I believe the pu's were changed when they moved to Indonesia, among other things. Mine has the single-coil 2K DeArmonds, later versions do not.
From the Fender website: Guild had also introduced DeArmond guitars in 1998. Fender had purchased the DeArmond brand of musical instrument pickups in 1997, and then combined the company with Guild to produce an alternative line of high quality, affordable guitars and basses that are modeled after Guild designs. The guitars themselves are built and assembled in Korea before being sent back to Corona, where they are fitted with American-made DeArmond pickups. Following their successful test runs in European and Asian markets, DeArmond guitars were introduced to American and Canadian consumers and received instant acclaim as an exceptional value.
I love my Starfire Special I almost hate to mention this, but I like it better than some of the vintage Guild Starfires I've played at Elderly's. Probably because I'm really used to mine now. But, I don't have a bad thing to say about it - it's got tone like you wouldn't believe, and one thing that initially impressed me is that it even sounds good unplugged! My only complaint is that it's heavy as an old Les Paul!
Another opinion, from Musicians Friend: Back in the early ‘60s, six or seven hundred smackers would get you a very swift guitar. If you had this princely sum, you would probably choose a Guild. It was the coolest guitar of its time, beautifully designed and exquisitely crafted – the guitar of choice for many legendary blues, jazz, early rock, and country stars. And if you had held on to that Bluesbird or Starfire or Manhattan and kept it in good shape, it would today be worth a serious hunk of change. These guitars are now treasured by collectors, their price is sky-high, and beyond the reach of many players who love to play one.
The new DeArmonds bring back the old Guilds
Now the new DeArmond guitars, produced by Guild, have come forward to fill this void for players who have been priced out of the picture. The DeArmonds are not just cosmetic copies, but are crafted in every detail to match the look and construction of the Guild originals. In creating the DeArmonds, Guild didn’t simply rely on the old specifications. They actually took design specs from vintage instruments so that the new versions would accurately duplicate the guitars as they were actually produced in the ‘60s.
And they bring back the classic DeArmond pickups
For those of you not old enough to remember, during the ‘50s and ‘60s, DeArmond was the big name in pickups, famous for its superior electronics. It produced the pickups used on Guild, Gretch, and other guitars. By putting DeArmond pickups on their new DeArmond guitars, they’ve added even more authenticity. These new pickups are updated versions. Modern technology has give them more output and less hum, but they retain the performance characteristics gave the ‘60s Guilds their distinctive sound.
How did all this rejoining of Guild designs and DeArmond pickups come about? Interestingly enough, we can thank another guitar maker, Fender, for making this happen. A few years back, Fender separately acquired both Guild and the old DeArmond company. Recognizing both a possibility and a need, Fender gave Guild the go-ahead to create the DeArmond guitar line, producing authentic Guild reproductions of their coveted ‘60s guitars fitted with American-made, updated versions of the original pickups.
Even the prices are vintage ‘60s
Most importantly, a new DeArmonds can be had for very moderate prices, about the same as the original Guilds cost back in the early ‘60s. This is made possible by foreign manufacturing. The guitars are made under Guild’s supervision and hold to the Guild tradition of fine quality. They are made not only to look like the originals, but to feel and sound like them. Now guitar players who have a yearning to experience the glories of the past have a way to enjoy the pleasures of a vintage Guild .
Replicating the Bluesbird and other classic set-neck models
DeArmond has recreated a number of the classic Guild models that have the design features and set neck construction that gave the originals their incredible responsiveness. The first I tried out was the M-75. It’s a reproduction of the ‘60s Bluesbird, one of Guild’s all-time most popular guitars, and this new DeArmond version is a honey. Like the original, it has an openness of tonal response rare in solidbody guitars. The neck has a 12" radius, a nut width of 1.6875", and a very natural, easy feel.
The pickups are dual-coil humbuckers that DeArmond has named the “Gold Tones.” They are high output alnicos with loads of gain and body. On this especially responsive guitar, they deliver that big, thick tone and sustain that makes solo lines stand out with authority when cranked up, and as smooth as silk at lower volumes. For playing blues or rock, the M-75 is an exceptional vintage axe. Its uniquely shaped harp tailpiece, top body binding, and big block inlays on the neck combine to give it an elegant look.
The legendary Starfire
The original Guild Starfire was introduced in 1961 and became a favorite with jazz players, blues players, country players. All of them found its sonic responsiveness made playing any kind of music a joy. The DeArmond version is worthy of its revered name. It is constructed of premium maple ply and its body has the authentic thinline hollow body and arch-top shape of the original, and dual Gold Tone DeArmonds deliver sparkling tone at all volumes.
The Starfire Special is a step-up model based on Guild’s famous Starfire III. It features center- block construction that makes it more able to handle high-volume performance. It also comes with the Bigsby-style DeArmond Vibro-tailpiece for a full-tilt retro look and performance. For pickups it uses DeArmond 2K pickups. These are updated versions of the vintage DeArmond 2000 single coil. They have the sound of the originals with all the low and midrange kick, but more output and less hum. This guitar has a wonderful feel – big and comfortable – and when playing it, you can’t help but think of its great tradition and history.
The sophisticated Manhattan
If you dream of playing something akin to the top jazz guitar of all time, DeArmond’s X-155 is a fantastic next-best-thing to the Guild Manhattan. It beautifully captures the look, feel, and design essentials of the legendary original. All the special appointments are there, from binding on top, back, and f-holes – even the art deco design pickguard and Guild-style harp tailpiece. With its Gold Tone humbuckers, it’s probably better for rock or blues playing than the original was. But whatever style you play, you’ll enjoy its cool and classy feel. And Its price is amazingly modest for the way this guitar looks, plays, and sounds.
For rockers in a budget mode
Besides these legendary classics, the DeArmond offers several solidbody models based on early Guild designs. Most have bolt-on construction, and all are guitars of relatively simple design. But they feel good, reflect Guild quality, and they are almost unbelievably low in price. The one I like best is the Jetstar. It’s based on one of Guild’s more “out there” designs. It is a unique shape, and this DeArmond is a smokin’ little rocker. It has the set neck, and high-output Gold Tone humbuckers, so is well equipped for overdrive mode. The same design is also available in a budget model, the Jetstar Special. It’s basic, very playable, and you can get it from Musician’s Friend for well under $200 bucks. If you can’t afford “fancy”, here you at least you can afford “good.”
All of the DeArmonds are great guitars for their price, and this is especially true from Musician’s Friend. Check them out. If you’re interested in a trying out a very cool retro guitar, talk to your friends at The Friend about your favorite DeArmond. When you get your hands on it, you’ll find the heart of ‘60s rock and roll is still beating. All of these new DeArmond products are available from Musician’s Friend at the guaranteed lowest price.
DeArmond Guitar features:
•Authentic ‘60’s Guild designs including internal construction of hollow and semi-hollow models
•American-made DeArmond pickups on most models, for vintage tone with improved output and reduced hum.
•Set-neck construction in the classic Starfire, X-75 Bluesbird, and the X-155 Manhattan.
•Vintage appointments such as the Guild-style harp tailpiece and vintage Bigsby-style tremolo, and body bindings matching the ‘60s Guild models
•Quality hardware, Tune-O-Matic bridges on most models and diecast tuners.
•Excellent foreign craftsmanship to Guild’s high standards, all beautifully finished.
•Every DeArmond guitar is a superior value, providing exceptional quality for a relative low price.
From the Fender website: Guild had also introduced DeArmond guitars in 1998. Fender had purchased the DeArmond brand of musical instrument pickups in 1997, and then combined the company with Guild to produce an alternative line of high quality, affordable guitars and basses that are modeled after Guild designs. The guitars themselves are built and assembled in Korea before being sent back to Corona, where they are fitted with American-made DeArmond pickups. Following their successful test runs in European and Asian markets, DeArmond guitars were introduced to American and Canadian consumers and received instant acclaim as an exceptional value.
I love my Starfire Special
I almost hate to mention this, but I like it better than some of the vintage Guild Starfires I've played at Elderly's. Probably because I'm really used to mine now. But, I don't have a bad thing to say about it - it's got tone like you wouldn't believe, and one thing that initially impressed me is that it even sounds good unplugged! My only complaint is that it's heavy as an old Les Paul!Another opinion, from Musicians Friend: Back in the early ‘60s, six or seven hundred smackers would get you a very swift guitar. If you had this princely sum, you would probably choose a Guild. It was the coolest guitar of its time, beautifully designed and exquisitely crafted – the guitar of choice for many legendary blues, jazz, early rock, and country stars. And if you had held on to that Bluesbird or Starfire or Manhattan and kept it in good shape, it would today be worth a serious hunk of change. These guitars are now treasured by collectors, their price is sky-high, and beyond the reach of many players who love to play one.
The new DeArmonds bring back the old Guilds
Now the new DeArmond guitars, produced by Guild, have come forward to fill this void for players who have been priced out of the picture. The DeArmonds are not just cosmetic copies, but are crafted in every detail to match the look and construction of the Guild originals. In creating the DeArmonds, Guild didn’t simply rely on the old specifications. They actually took design specs from vintage instruments so that the new versions would accurately duplicate the guitars as they were actually produced in the ‘60s.
And they bring back the classic DeArmond pickups
For those of you not old enough to remember, during the ‘50s and ‘60s, DeArmond was the big name in pickups, famous for its superior electronics. It produced the pickups used on Guild, Gretch, and other guitars. By putting DeArmond pickups on their new DeArmond guitars, they’ve added even more authenticity. These new pickups are updated versions. Modern technology has give them more output and less hum, but they retain the performance characteristics gave the ‘60s Guilds their distinctive sound.
How did all this rejoining of Guild designs and DeArmond pickups come about? Interestingly enough, we can thank another guitar maker, Fender, for making this happen. A few years back, Fender separately acquired both Guild and the old DeArmond company. Recognizing both a possibility and a need, Fender gave Guild the go-ahead to create the DeArmond guitar line, producing authentic Guild reproductions of their coveted ‘60s guitars fitted with American-made, updated versions of the original pickups.
Even the prices are vintage ‘60s
Most importantly, a new DeArmonds can be had for very moderate prices, about the same as the original Guilds cost back in the early ‘60s. This is made possible by foreign manufacturing. The guitars are made under Guild’s supervision and hold to the Guild tradition of fine quality. They are made not only to look like the originals, but to feel and sound like them. Now guitar players who have a yearning to experience the glories of the past have a way to enjoy the pleasures of a vintage Guild .
Replicating the Bluesbird and other classic set-neck models
DeArmond has recreated a number of the classic Guild models that have the design features and set neck construction that gave the originals their incredible responsiveness. The first I tried out was the M-75. It’s a reproduction of the ‘60s Bluesbird, one of Guild’s all-time most popular guitars, and this new DeArmond version is a honey. Like the original, it has an openness of tonal response rare in solidbody guitars. The neck has a 12" radius, a nut width of 1.6875", and a very natural, easy feel.
The pickups are dual-coil humbuckers that DeArmond has named the “Gold Tones.” They are high output alnicos with loads of gain and body. On this especially responsive guitar, they deliver that big, thick tone and sustain that makes solo lines stand out with authority when cranked up, and as smooth as silk at lower volumes. For playing blues or rock, the M-75 is an exceptional vintage axe. Its uniquely shaped harp tailpiece, top body binding, and big block inlays on the neck combine to give it an elegant look.
The legendary Starfire
The original Guild Starfire was introduced in 1961 and became a favorite with jazz players, blues players, country players. All of them found its sonic responsiveness made playing any kind of music a joy. The DeArmond version is worthy of its revered name. It is constructed of premium maple ply and its body has the authentic thinline hollow body and arch-top shape of the original, and dual Gold Tone DeArmonds deliver sparkling tone at all volumes.
The Starfire Special is a step-up model based on Guild’s famous Starfire III. It features center- block construction that makes it more able to handle high-volume performance. It also comes with the Bigsby-style DeArmond Vibro-tailpiece for a full-tilt retro look and performance. For pickups it uses DeArmond 2K pickups. These are updated versions of the vintage DeArmond 2000 single coil. They have the sound of the originals with all the low and midrange kick, but more output and less hum. This guitar has a wonderful feel – big and comfortable – and when playing it, you can’t help but think of its great tradition and history.
The sophisticated Manhattan
If you dream of playing something akin to the top jazz guitar of all time, DeArmond’s X-155 is a fantastic next-best-thing to the Guild Manhattan. It beautifully captures the look, feel, and design essentials of the legendary original. All the special appointments are there, from binding on top, back, and f-holes – even the art deco design pickguard and Guild-style harp tailpiece. With its Gold Tone humbuckers, it’s probably better for rock or blues playing than the original was. But whatever style you play, you’ll enjoy its cool and classy feel. And Its price is amazingly modest for the way this guitar looks, plays, and sounds.
For rockers in a budget mode
Besides these legendary classics, the DeArmond offers several solidbody models based on early Guild designs. Most have bolt-on construction, and all are guitars of relatively simple design. But they feel good, reflect Guild quality, and they are almost unbelievably low in price. The one I like best is the Jetstar. It’s based on one of Guild’s more “out there” designs. It is a unique shape, and this DeArmond is a smokin’ little rocker. It has the set neck, and high-output Gold Tone humbuckers, so is well equipped for overdrive mode. The same design is also available in a budget model, the Jetstar Special. It’s basic, very playable, and you can get it from Musician’s Friend for well under $200 bucks. If you can’t afford “fancy”, here you at least you can afford “good.”
All of the DeArmonds are great guitars for their price, and this is especially true from Musician’s Friend. Check them out. If you’re interested in a trying out a very cool retro guitar, talk to your friends at The Friend about your favorite DeArmond. When you get your hands on it, you’ll find the heart of ‘60s rock and roll is still beating. All of these new DeArmond products are available from Musician’s Friend at the guaranteed lowest price.
DeArmond Guitar features:
•Authentic ‘60’s Guild designs including internal construction of hollow and semi-hollow models
•American-made DeArmond pickups on most models, for vintage tone with improved output and reduced hum.
•Set-neck construction in the classic Starfire, X-75 Bluesbird, and the X-155 Manhattan.
•Vintage appointments such as the Guild-style harp tailpiece and vintage Bigsby-style tremolo, and body bindings matching the ‘60s Guild models
•Quality hardware, Tune-O-Matic bridges on most models and diecast tuners.
•Excellent foreign craftsmanship to Guild’s high standards, all beautifully finished.
•Every DeArmond guitar is a superior value, providing exceptional quality for a relative low price.
The S-73 is a nice guitar for low bucks. The goldtone p/us are worthy, not throw away cheapies. It's one of those rare humbuckers that can twang.
My fave dearmond (after owning 4 of them) is the M-75T, with the 2k pickups. Mine does have the made by Guild on the truss rod cover. It's heavy, about as solid an instrument as I've come across. The pickups look dynasonic, but are more P90ish in character.
Dearmonds were my intro into Korean made guitars. There are many good ones. Not every dearmond is a keeper, but when you find a good one it continues to surprise and delight.
MD
My fave dearmond (after owning 4 of them) is the M-75T, with the 2k pickups. Mine does have the made by Guild on the truss rod cover. It's heavy, about as solid an instrument as I've come across. The pickups look dynasonic, but are more P90ish in character.
Dearmonds were my intro into Korean made guitars. There are many good ones. Not every dearmond is a keeper, but when you find a good one it continues to surprise and delight.
MD
mad dog said:
+1
My 77t cost me less than 300 bucks in like-new condition. Defnitely a keeper. The 2k single coil pups are great, pretty decent bark and bite. The agathis body makes it heavy as hell. Surpisingly the Digsby stays in tune fairly well, better than I would have expected. Its a set neck, I have no experience with any of the bolt-ons to compare. Fun knock-around guitar though.
Here is a link for info on the S73. I am guessing the "c" you mentioned refers to Crimson Red. Maybe?
http://www.dearmondguitars.com/s73.html
http://www.dearmondguitars.com/s73.html