Like many guitar players, the quest for the perfect acoustic guitar can lead down unexpected paths. My own search for a specific vintage-inspired sound led me to a guitar I initially wasn’t even considering, highlighting the importance of trying out instruments firsthand when looking for “acoustic guitars for sale near me.”
The Allure of Vintage Tone and the Gibson L-00
My guitar journey, like many, is fueled by admiration for certain players and their instruments. Being a fan of Pharis and Jason Romero, I was captivated by Jason’s lead work on a small-bodied Gibson L-00. The vintage tone and feel were exactly what I was after. So, I visited a specialist guitar shop with the Gibson L-00 firmly in mind, hoping to capture a piece of that magic for myself. They had several versions in stock, and I was ready to make a purchase, convinced that owning that particular model would unlock a new level of playing and sound.
Discovering Waterloo: An Unexpected Turn
However, reality often diverges from expectation. Upon trying the Gibson L-00s, I was surprisingly underwhelmed. Tonally and in terms of fit and finish, they didn’t live up to my hopes. Fortunately, the knowledgeable sales assistant at the guitar shop, sensing my slight disappointment, suggested I explore Martin Whiskey Sunsets and Waterloo guitars. Waterloo, a brand I was vaguely aware of through their connection to Collings guitars and their reputation for quality and 12-fret models, piqued my interest. Ultimately, drawn to the 12-fret design and Collings’ renowned build quality, I decided on a Waterloo WL-12.
Initial Impressions and the Guitar’s Transformation
Bringing the Waterloo WL-12 home, my initial reaction was mixed. After restringing it, I wasn’t immediately enamored with the sound. It didn’t instantly resonate with me. However, understanding that guitars can evolve, I committed to playing it consistently, hoping to grow accustomed to its voice. Initially, this approach didn’t entirely work, and I even considered selling it. With no immediate buyers online, the Waterloo ended up hanging on my office wall for a couple of months. It was during this period of rest that something shifted. Taking it down again, I noticed a significant change – the guitar had noticeably opened up, its tone becoming richer and more resonant. Re-inspired, I started playing it at home again, discovering a new appreciation for its developing character.
From Prized Possession to “Knockabout” Companion
Life, as it often does, had another twist in store. One day, a guitar student visited, and I decided to use my Waterloo for the lesson. Carefully placing it on a stand and providing a stand for my student, an accident occurred. Instead of using the stand provided, my student leaned his heavy Aria Jumbo against a seat. It slipped, falling directly onto my Waterloo, leaving two deep dents in the top. It was a stark reminder that not everyone appreciates the value and fragility of a well-crafted instrument. While disheartening, this incident led to a change in perspective. I took the Waterloo off the market and embraced its new role as my “knockabout guitar.” Now, it resides in my lounge, readily available for spontaneous playing sessions, and even accompanies me to occasional jam sessions.
The Waterloo Experience: Patience and Play-In
My experience with the Waterloo WL-12 has been a lesson in expectations and the nature of certain instruments. I suspect many guitarists, perhaps accustomed to the immediate gratification of larger Martins or high-end Collings, might initially find Waterloo guitars lacking. While impeccably built and possessing a distinct small Gibson-esque character, they don’t instantly replicate the sound of a seasoned vintage instrument. However, as my experience demonstrates, Waterloo guitars improve dramatically with playing time. It’s worth remembering Bill Collings’ aim: to create new, well-built guitars that capture the essence of older, more affordable instruments. The fact that Jason Romero himself, after tragically losing his collection of vintage and handmade guitars in a house fire, was seen playing a Waterloo speaks volumes about their quality and appeal.
Waterloo guitars are undoubtedly an investment, and potential buyers should be aware that they might require patience and dedicated playing to truly unlock their full potential. They are instruments that need to be “played in” to reveal their vintage-inspired charm. When searching for “acoustic guitars for sale near me,” consider trying a range of brands and styles, including those that might require a little time to truly shine. You might just discover a hidden gem that, like my Waterloo, transforms into a cherished musical companion over time.
