The quest for a quality 7-string guitar that doesn’t break the bank can be challenging. One guitarist recently shared their experience with a Giannini Guitar, specifically the Giannini Asturias 4/7 model, offering valuable insights for anyone considering venturing into the world of extended range instruments on a budget. This Brazilian-made guitar boasts solid wood construction and promises a unique tonal experience. Let’s delve into the initial impressions and planned upgrades for this intriguing instrument.
First Encounters and Sound Perception
Initially, the Giannini Asturias 4/7 was perceived as quieter compared to a Cordoba C10 Parlor. However, this initial assessment was soon revised. The guitarist realized that the environment where they first auditioned the guitar, a room with humidifiers, had skewed their perception of the sound volume. Upon playing it in a more neutral setting, the Giannini guitar revealed its true voice, proving to be just as resonant as their Parlor guitar. This highlights the importance of evaluating instruments in optimal acoustic conditions.
Construction and Component Observations
The Giannini Asturias 4/7 is constructed with a solid red cedar top and solid mahogany back and sides, a combination often praised for its warm and balanced tonal characteristics. The fretboard is solid ebony, adding to the guitar’s quality feel and smooth playability. While the attractive rosette might be a decal, the nut and saddle were identified as plastic, rather than the preferred bone. This is a common cost-saving measure in budget guitars, but bone components are often sought after for their improved tonal transfer and durability.
Alt text: Close-up of a Giannini guitar headstock showcasing the tuning pegs and brand logo, highlighting the craftsmanship of this instrument.
Playability and Planned Enhancements
In terms of playability, the guitarist noted the action was a bit high, a common issue that can be easily rectified with a saddle adjustment. More notably, the spacing of the high E string was found to be too close to the edge of the fretboard, increasing the risk of the string slipping off. To address these points, the owner decided to replace both the nut and saddle with bone. This upgrade is a popular modification among guitarists seeking to enhance both the tone and playability of their instruments. Furthermore, the nut replacement will provide an opportunity to adjust the string spacing, moving the E string and potentially the low B string slightly inward for improved comfort and reduced risk of slippage.
Tone and String Considerations
The guitarist also mentioned the stock thick B string feeling somewhat obtrusive and potentially too tight to tune up to D. They plan to experiment with a lighter gauge string, possibly a D or Db, to allow for tuning flexibility down to C or even B, and up to D without excessive tension on the bridge. This reflects a player’s thoughtful approach to customizing their instrument to suit their playing style and preferred tunings. The overall tone of the Giannini guitar is described as distinct from their Cordoba C10 Parlor, suggesting a different tonal palette that could be explored and appreciated.
Finding Your Giannini Guitar
For those intrigued by the Giannini Asturias 4/7, or similar models, searching online marketplaces like eBay using terms such as “Giannini GNC 4/7” can be a good starting point. The GNC 4/7 model, often found with electronics, shares visual similarities with the Asturias 4/7, offering another option depending on individual preferences for amplification.
In conclusion, the initial experience with the Giannini guitar Asturias 4/7 suggests it’s a promising budget-friendly 7-string option. While some adjustments and component upgrades are planned, the solid wood construction and unique tonal character make it a guitar worth considering for players exploring extended range possibilities without a hefty investment.
