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Topic: Opinions needed: sight unseen Weiss vs. Bronson Sq Neck |
Mark Evans
From:
Colorado, USA
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Posted 10 May 2016 6:48 am |
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I realize this sort of thing is very subjective, but thought I'd tap into the general group mindset.
I'm thinking of picking up a cheaper lap style instrument. Maybe to use, maybe to give to my son.
I've found a couple in my price range ($3-400, both online): a mystery 'unnamed' weissenborn (woods are not specifically listed but seller says probably laminated mahogany?) says it is unused, from the last 15 years. About $300. I've also seen a nice looking Bronson squareneck (birch?) in good shape for basically the same price (with a return policy).
Can't play them prior to buying. The Bronson could be returned less shipping. Haven't played a squareneck reg guitar, but am curious.
What would you choose if you were a gamblin' lap steelin' fool?
Mark
_________________
Larry Pogreba Baritone 'Weissenheimer
Late 30’s Oahu Tonemaster
Early 40’s Rickenbacker Ace
Asher Electro Hawaiian
Hermann Guitars style 1 Weissenborn
2017 Richard Wilson Style 1 Weissenborn |
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Brad Bechtel
From:
San Francisco, CA
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Posted 10 May 2016 11:23 am
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Without playing either one, and without photos of the instruments in question, I'd say the Bronson. It's quite a gamble either way.
Do you have photos of the two guitars you could share with us?
_________________
Brad’s Page of Steel
A web site devoted to acoustic & electric lap steel guitars
Last edited by Brad Bechtel on 10 May 2016 2:56 pm; edited 1 time in total |
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Steve Branscom
From:
Pacific NW
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Posted 10 May 2016 12:42 pm
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Isn't the Bronson a Supro brand or manufacture? Think so, therefore gets string-thru p/u. Weissenborn will be cheap. Go for the Bronson.
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Steve |
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Todd Clinesmith
From:
Lone Rock Free State Oregon
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Posted 10 May 2016 12:56 pm
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Mark is referring to a Bronson wood bodied Hawaiian acoustic guitar. I have one, it was the first steel guitar I got. I had trouble with the bridge pulling up in a low bass G tuning. The heel of the guitar also separated a bit over time. It's now a wall hanger. It did get me started tho. A Bronson or similar plywood acoustic steel from back in the day should be found for less than $200.
I would think the Weiss copy may have better acoustic properties but I have never tried an overseas Weiss.
_________________
face book page:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Clinesmith-Instruments/1457245817911268?ref=bookmarks |
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Mark Evans
From:
Colorado, USA
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Larry Carlson
From:
My Computer
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Posted 11 May 2016 6:16 am
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The Weiss is a Vineyard.
I have seen them sell for $200 to maybe $350 depending on condition and how much someone thinks it's worth.
Not sure if I would go over $250 for one. That of course is just my opinion.
_________________
I have stuff.
I try to make music with it.
Sometimes it works.
Sometimes it doesn't.
But I keep on trying. |
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Mark Evans
From:
Colorado, USA
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Posted 11 May 2016 7:42 am
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An ID! Thanks. I figured it was one of a few off shore builds.
ME
_________________
Larry Pogreba Baritone 'Weissenheimer
Late 30’s Oahu Tonemaster
Early 40’s Rickenbacker Ace
Asher Electro Hawaiian
Hermann Guitars style 1 Weissenborn
2017 Richard Wilson Style 1 Weissenborn |
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Brad Bechtel
From:
San Francisco, CA
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Posted 11 May 2016 9:03 am
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Having seen both of these, I'd still go with the Bronson. I have owned a Vineyard weissenborn style guitar similar to the one pictured. It's decent, but the nut is too low in my opinion.
Neither of these guitars will produce much volume. If you're planning on playing with others you'll probably want some sort of pickup.
_________________
Brad’s Page of Steel
A web site devoted to acoustic & electric lap steel guitars |
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chris ivey
From:
california (deceased)
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Posted 11 May 2016 10:48 am
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| i'd look for a cheaper newer import weiss maybe with a built in pickup. |
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Mark Evans
From:
Colorado, USA
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Mike Spieth
From:
Santa Fe, New Mexico
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Posted 12 May 2016 9:54 am
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I have no way to compare the two side by side, but I bought a similar guitar to the Anderwood from Twisted Wood, up in Alberta. Tom treated me very well, and I'm quite happy with it.
https://twistedwoodguitars.com/
The prices are Canadian dollars, so the US price is lower. |
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Mark Evans
From:
Colorado, USA
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Posted 12 May 2016 6:39 pm
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I'm sitting tight. Think I have enough.
_________________
Larry Pogreba Baritone 'Weissenheimer
Late 30’s Oahu Tonemaster
Early 40’s Rickenbacker Ace
Asher Electro Hawaiian
Hermann Guitars style 1 Weissenborn
2017 Richard Wilson Style 1 Weissenborn |
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Brad Bechtel
From:
San Francisco, CA
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Posted 13 May 2016 6:24 am
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I think that's the right idea. Neither of those guitars are particularly collectible, and if you already have a Pogreba Weissenborn you have something better than either of those instruments.
Your son would be just as well off with a standard guitar and a nut extender, if you have a spare acoustic guitar sitting around.
_________________
Brad’s Page of Steel
A web site devoted to acoustic & electric lap steel guitars |
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