When it comes to Gypsy Jazz guitars, the names Saga Gitane and Altamira frequently surface in discussions among musicians. Both brands offer instruments that capture the distinctive sound and aesthetic of the Selmer-Maccaferri guitars popularized by Django Reinhardt. For players seeking that authentic “pompe” rhythm and soaring lead lines, understanding the nuances between these brands is crucial. This article provides an in-depth comparison, focusing particularly on the Gitane Dg-320 Lulo Reinhardt Acoustic Guitar, to help you make an informed decision for your musical journey.
Saga Gitane vs. Altamira: Brand Background and Philosophy
Understanding the origins and philosophies of Saga Gitane and Altamira provides valuable context for appreciating their guitars.
Saga Gitane: Rooted in American Bluegrass and Western Swing
altamira-saga-logos
Saga Gitane guitars are produced in China under the umbrella of the American company Blueridge, a brand renowned for crafting high-quality instruments spanning guitars, banjos, and stringed instruments. Blueridge’s deep roots in the Bluegrass and Western Swing scenes are significant. Western Swing, with its improvisational nature and rhythmic drive, shares a close kinship with Gypsy Jazz, a connection that seasoned musicians readily recognize. This background subtly influences the Gitane sound, lending it a versatile character that extends beyond strictly traditional Gypsy Jazz.
Altamira: European Craftsmanship with a Focus on Classic Gypsy Jazz Sound
In contrast, Altamira is a Chinese company with a distinct European influence, primarily focused on classical guitars. The company’s owner received guitar-making training in Spain and ensures their luthiers also receive European training. While their primary focus remains on classical instruments, Altamira has expanded into Gypsy Jazz guitars. Interestingly, a younger American “Djangonerd” has recently influenced Altamira’s product direction, pushing towards more accessible and budget-friendly models. This shift reflects a strategy of broader market appeal and optimized production.
Sound Characteristics: Defining the Gypsy Jazz Tone
The sonic profiles of Saga Gitane and Altamira guitars offer distinct flavors for Gypsy Jazz enthusiasts.
Saga Gitane: The “American Selmer Sound” – Versatility and Resonance
Gitane guitars are often characterized by a broader tonal range compared to some traditionally built European instruments. They tend to exhibit a more resonant sound with longer sustain. This characteristic has led some to describe the Gitane sound as having an “American Selmer sound.” This isn’t a drawback, but rather a different flavor. For players who appreciate venturing beyond the strict confines of traditional “Jazz Manouche,” Gitane guitars offer a comfortable transition from mainstream acoustic guitars. Their versatility allows them to handle various styles, from folk strumming to fingerpicking, as demonstrated by a flamenco player who successfully used a Gitane D-500 for pick-less flamenco performances. The Gitane sound is adaptable, making it a solid all-around acoustic instrument. The popularity of Gitane signature models endorsed by professional guitarists like John Jorgenson, Stephane Wrembel, and Dorado Schmitt further attests to their quality and sonic appeal.
Altamira: The Authentic “Django Sound” – Dryness and Dynamism
Altamira guitars, on the other hand, are known for capturing the quintessential “Django sound.” Their sound is direct, dry, and percussive, with less sustain but abundant dynamics and attack. For purists seeking the classic, punchy sound associated with Django Reinhardt’s recordings, Altamira guitars are a compelling choice, especially for those seeking an alternative to significantly more expensive French-made guitars or boutique brands. While Altamira may not boast as many high-profile endorsements as Gitane, their guitars are favored by touring professionals for their reliability and suitability for various playing environments. Many renowned Gypsy Jazz guitarists choose Altamiras as their “workhorse” instruments for campfire sessions, camping trips, or less formal gigs, recognizing their authentic tone and robust build. In essence, if you prioritize a purely Django-esque tone, Altamira leans towards that classic sound. If you desire more sonic flexibility, Gitane offers a broader palette.
Build Quality and Playability: Addressing Steel-String Gypsy Guitars
Assessing the quality of Gypsy Jazz guitars requires understanding their unique construction principles, distinct from electric or nylon-string guitars.
The Nature of Steel-String Gypsy Guitars: Thin Tops and Responsiveness
Gypsy Jazz guitars are characterized by a fast attack and responsiveness, achieved through a relatively thin top. Unlike classical or Western guitars, these tops aren’t heavily braced. The entire construction, similar to mandolins or violins, is designed to handle string tension while maximizing resonance. This design choice contributes to the signature sound but also means the guitar top is sensitive to environmental changes. Fluctuations in humidity can cause the top to move, potentially affecting playability. Experienced players are accustomed to these nuances and often make seasonal adjustments. While not every guitar exhibits extreme sensitivity, it’s a characteristic inherent to the design.
Saga Gitane: High Build Quality and Modern Finish
Saga Gitane guitars have long shed any “cheap China” perception, particularly over the last 15 years. Their build quality is notably high. In terms of finish, their polyurethane (PU) lacquer is often comparable to, and sometimes surpasses, that of smaller, hand-crafting luthiers. Gitane has also addressed setup issues that plagued earlier imports. Previously, retailers often lacked the expertise to properly set up Selmer-style guitars, resulting in unplayably high action. Gitane guitars today generally arrive with a more playable setup, although adjustments to individual preferences are always recommended for optimal performance.
Altamira: Setup Considerations and “Shop Adjusted” Approach
Historically, Altamira guitars were often sold without comprehensive setups. This remains somewhat true today, with a “shop adjusted” approach being crucial. For retailers specializing in Gypsy Jazz guitars, like gypsyguitar.de, a full setup is considered essential for Altamira instruments before delivery. This ensures optimal playability and tone. Players purchasing Altamira guitars should anticipate a professional setup to unlock their full potential. However, this is standard practice for dedicated Gypsy guitar shops and shouldn’t deter buyers.
Common Ground: Selmer Blueprint and Model Variations
Both Saga Gitane and Altamira models are fundamentally based on the classic Selmer guitar blueprint, typically featuring a 67cm scale length and a 14th-fret neck joint. Exceptions include models like the Saga D-500 and Gitane GJ15, which feature shorter scales, wider necks, and 12th-fret neck joints, catering to players with different preferences.
Model Comparison: From Entry-Level to Professional
Both brands offer a range of models to suit various budgets and playing levels.
Entry-Level Budget Models:
- Cigano GJ10/15 (Saga): Cigano GJ10/15 – Known for a raw, punchy sound with good bass response.
- Altamira M/MD: Altamira M/MD – Offers a more refined tone with bright trebles, featuring a laminate body reminiscent of early Selmer guitars, which many consider advantageous for authentic Django tone.
Both entry-level series are typically matte-finished and minimally adorned, focusing on core playability and tone.
Mid-Range Professional Models:
- Saga Gitane D 500 / DG 255 / DG 300 / DG 320: Saga Gitane D 500 / DG 255
- Altamira MO1 oval/d-hole: Altamira MO1 oval/d-hole
This category is where professional players often find instruments that meet their demands. The Altamira MO1 is particularly popular for its price point and laminate body construction, aligning with many players’ perception of the “authentic” Gypsy Jazz sound.
The Saga Gitane DG-320 Lulo Reinhardt acoustic guitar falls within this mid-range category as a signature model. Gitane signature models generally represent a step up in quality, featuring upgraded tonewoods, enhanced appointments, or specific player-requested features. In the case of the Jorgenson model (DG-300), it includes a slightly thicker neck for players with larger hands. Altamira’s equivalent models in this range, like the M10, often differentiate themselves through the use of solid woods for the body and higher-quality tuners. However, some purists still favor the laminate construction of the MO1, even when solid-wood options are available, preferring the slightly drier, more focused tone.
Shared Components:
Interestingly, both Saga Gitane and Altamira utilize the exact same tailpiece design, each branded with their respective logo. This detail highlights the shared design heritage and component sourcing within the Gypsy Jazz guitar world.
Higher-End and Signature Models:
- Saga Gitane DG 310 Lulo Reinhardt / DG 000 Stephane Wrembel / DG 000 Jan Akkermann / DG 350 Dorado Schmitt
- Altamira M20/M30 oval/d-hole
These series represent the higher tiers of both brands, offering premium features and tonewoods.
Nylon String Gypsy Guitars:
- Saga Gitane DG 560
- Altamira MO1 Nylon
Both brands also offer nylon-string versions of their Gypsy Jazz designs, catering to players seeking a softer tone or crossover applications.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Gypsy Jazz Guitar
Ultimately, both Saga Gitane and Altamira offer excellent value and capture the essence of the Gypsy Jazz guitar sound. Saga Gitane guitars are often praised for their slightly superior build quality and versatile sound, capable of producing a convincing Gypsy tone while remaining adaptable to other styles. Altamira guitars lean towards a more authentically “Django-esque” sound, prized for their dry, dynamic character. The extensive model range from both brands ensures that players can find an instrument that aligns with their individual taste and budget. Whether you gravitate towards the versatility of Gitane, exemplified by the DG-320 Lulo Reinhardt acoustic guitar, or the authentic Django vibe of Altamira, exploring both brands is highly recommended for any aspiring Gypsy Jazz guitarist.
