I can’t believe it has been just over a month since I got my J-45 Avant Garde. Oh, how time flies! I’ve pretty much played the guitar daily since I got it and the wood is finally starting to break in. It will probably be a few more months till it is finally settled in, but the sound has definitely mellowed.
I did make some changes to the guitar; actually right away. I removed the stock pre-amp (LR Baggs Element) and replaced it with my Seymour Duncan MagMic soundhole pickup. It is SO much better than the under-saddle piezo, combining a magnetic pickup with a microphone. The sound is much more natural.
I haven’t played this in any club gigs yet, but I have played it in church weekly since I got it and also did a few other private gigs. But no matter where I’ve played it, I’ve walked away totally inspired by this guitar.
People ask: Does a great guitar make you better? From a technique point of view possibly, because it’s easier to play. But from an inspiration perspective, absolutely. When I play an instrument that inspires me – and mind you, no matter the cost as I have some “cheap” instruments that kick ass – I tend to be a lot more creative. When the guitar’s as easy to play and sounds as good as this, I just go off.
To be honest, I didn’t quite know what to expect with the walnut body and solid maple neck. I figured it would be a little on the brighter side. And when I first got it, that was definitely the case. But now that it’s breaking in, that brightness has mellowed and given way to that super-rich sound that J-45’s are known for. I’m in tonal heaven.
And no, I haven’t yet come up with a name yet, though I’m really leaning towards calling her Nadine. Don’t know why. There’s no sense in it. And I know it irks some, but hey! You do you! 🙂
As for me, I have a feeling this love affair will last a LONG time!
Guitar Gear 
Nice post brother, I am hearing you. Like you I have just picked acquired a one off C/S Maton – Dreadnought cut away with USA rock maple inner single stripe together with a Brazilian Rosewood back, sides & finger broad with a Honduras Mahogany neck and European spruce face. I agree Guitar Gear, another few months and this beautiful piece of craftsmanship (woods) will have settle in to its beautiful characteristic of tones and resonance.
Maton is an Australian guitar company, right? Nice! Saw one of those several years back. Very nice guitars!
That’s right – Aussie. Been around since 1946. Well known Andy Allen is the solve luthier for custom shop within Maton. Some of his clients are Tommy Emmanuel.