I lived in Tokyo for 20 years, dealing in guitars. The name is pronounced Ya-ee-ree and you will get bonus points if you give the middle syllable a little emphasis and slip a little "d" into the "r." When I returned to California in 2008, I became the buyer for used acoustic guitars for a major chain there. I still miss Japan. If you get a chance visit the country. It's pretty amazing. Tq
Jeremy, I'm glad to see you praise a guitar that isn't a legacy or boutique brand. I'm a huge Alvarez and Alvarez-Yairi fan, I own seventeen Alvarez, and six A-Y guitars. The oldest is a '72 Alvarez 5014, the newest are my '04 Alvarez AJ60SC-12, and my '04 Alvarez-Yairi DY-84. Two things I noticed here that I want to mention for you. First, Kazuo Yairi pronounced his family name (on video) as (y-eye REE). Second, Yairi Gita (in the town of Kani, Gifu prefecture, Japan, just up the mountain from Nagoya) was founded in 1932, incorporated in 1935 by Kazuo's father (he made traditional Japanese instruments), and became Yairi Gita after Kazuo took over following his father's death. The Alvarez brand was purchased in 1964 (from a small Mexican company), and introduced in the U.S. by St. Louis Music in 1965. Alvarez-Yairi debuted in the early '70's through a partnership between St. Louis Music and Yairi Gita (Kazuo Yairi). 1973 was the first year of the A-Y headstock logo, 1974 saw the debut of the CY, DY, and FY model prefixes. Like all other manufacturers, it got to be where you had to pay extra for the solid-wood guitars (Masterworks), but the DYMR70SB (Dreadnought, Yairi, Masterworks, Rosewood, model 70, Sunburst) you demo'd here is still half, or less, the price of a comparable Martin, sounds amazing, and will go longer without major repairs. My 1973 Alvarez-Yairi Model 5065 (DY-74) was purchased new by a music teacher, and played daily until she was no longer able to play. It has never had a neck reset, and doesn't need one. How many of the legacy brands from that era can you say that about?
I've been playing the Same K Yairi as my main guitar for 42 years... Didn't even know what I was buying at the time. I'm Not a brand name shopper, If it feels great, then it is.I was lucky. I've been scoffed at for saying that it was on Par with the big boys...Guess What? I was right All along. They are fantastic.The tops of these guitars are in storage and curing for 30 years before they are applied to a body...That's insane!! They put them in a room and play All kinds of different music for a month so they can vibrate while the glues cure. I can play the hell out of it and rarely tune it. I can go on for days... Kazuo passed away in 2014( that was HIS bridge design) and I hope they stay true to their philosophy. I urge you to seek out their Factory tour on RUclips. Peace.
What wonderful information, sincere thanks, I have owned a few Alvarez and Yairi Yairi Acoustic's in the past, they were all good, however I now own 3 Yamaha's, 1 being a early 70's FG 180, the other an FGX 830 C, an FSX 800C, and an FGC-TA, and the last one is quite simply mindblowing ( with its speaker/ amp in it, which is great when you're playing along with another acoustic and you need a little extra volume to make 1 stand out just a little from the other 😊😊😊
Yairi guitars are one of the best kept secrets in the guitar world. I have a 1990 DY-77 that I bought new and I have played it almost exclusively since then and it has been an excellent instrument. There have been no issues except I've had the first 5 frets replaced. I've never had to adjust the truss rod and the action is still low with no buzz. There is a good video on RUclips of the Yairi workshop showing all of the hand work that goes into these guitars.
You are absolutely correct. Whether it's Yamaha, Alvarez..........but the true king of the Japanese quality has, and always will be: Takamine. Technically, they began production in 1959, but it was soon after in 1962 ( the year I was born ) when they changed their name to Takamine and became truly "an official Japanese company". They chose the name Takamine because their factory has always been located in the Takamine valley, right at the foot of the Takamine mountain. (......or is it "mountains" )
My wife bought me a 1986 Yairi DY67. I was upset she didn’t let me go see and try it first, but the sale guy and my best buddy helped her find it for me. Turns out it was perfect.
My brother, who btw, was a Grammy nominated writer this year, has played one of these almost every night somewhere in Nashville for the past 20 something years. It's a wonderful music box. He was co-writer on a team. They didn't win but is an honor to have ever been nominated. Buy one. Maybe there's a Grammy waiting inside it to be played by you.
How I escaped guitar snobbery. In the 70s I arrived late in the evening at a bluegrass festival. I approached a campfire with a number of players jamming, none of whom I knew. Immediately, someone asked, "Do you play guitar? I'm worn out. Play mine.". He handed me what I perceived to be an old Martin Dreadnaught. I thought what an opportunity to play this fine guitar! After some time I realized it was an Alvarez Yairi! Nice.
My 1989 Yairi FY65 signature series is absolutely superior to my Taylor 812c. Sustains sound twice as long, although not quite as deep, and the Yairi tuning hardware is unbelievably superior! Plays so nicely, holds tuning perfectly. Saw Bob Weir playing my model on tour the night I purchased mine at Thomas and Mack in Las Vegas NV. Still today just resonates. Has sailed the entire east coast, Bahamas multiple times, and crossed country many times. Truly a beautiful guitar. Nice video. Thank you for proper pronunciation, always wondered about that? Keep on keeping on...
I only found one Suzuki once upon a time in a pawn shop that was equal to an A.Y. This was 35-40 years ago. I've owned three different model Martins -18-28-35, a Gibson Gospel-#000501, a mid-70s sunburst Hummingbird, And my first one in 1969, an all-mahogany little Harmony that was a rel treat to play. That A.Y. and Suzuki are most memorable for neck shape, fretboards, sustained delicate tone, and balance throughout the bass, middle, and upper ranges. Sigh.... goodtimes now gone.
When I was younger and poorer, I bought my first good guitar. It was an all laminate Alvarez 5013. Over the years I’ve owned 12 or 13, including a 1991 Yairi GY1. It is by and large the best guitar I own. And of all the guitars I’ve been blessed to be able to play, it’s in the top three. People have been sleeping on them for decades.
I’ve had the pleasure of playing an OM and a classical Yairi. Both vintage. I missed out buying the OM but the buyer let me play it. Exceptional sound and build quality. Great commentary on build quality, sound, AND not being a snob. And not trying to sound like someone else. Great video, great insight. Thank you
I noticed that this slotted headstock was strung in the BEST way, WITHOUT the sharp inward angle off the nut on the two outside "E" strings. I believe it is best when the strings come off the nut in more of a straighter line to each tuning peg. This puts less stress on the nut and creates a sharper angle in a downward direction for overall better tone. This means that the four internal strings end up on the inside and the two outside "E" strings end up on the outside.
I mentioned Yairi and their more affordable brand, Alvarez, a while ago (in the comments section). While I can't afford to get a Yairi, I do have an Alvarez MD60BG and it sounds great, for it's cost, @ $700.00. It's an all solid wood, Sitka Spruce top and African mahogany back and sides. Has a mahogany neck with a glued in dovetail and also has a rosewood bridge, that has a milled down area for the pins. This area angles the strings down very sharply into the bridge pins. I've made a few videos on that guitar and other affordable, all solid wood guitars on my channel. It's awesome that you could show people this great guitar, that's not from the big 3 brands.
Over 20 years ago, I went into a small local music store to buy some guitar strings. It so happens that store is an Alvarez dealer. I decided to try out some of the other guitars. As I played, I reflected on a large Alvarez banner hanging in the store, so I asked if they sold Yairi guitars. The sales person was surprised at the question, and he said they had one, but because of its price, it was kept in the back, and would only allow certain customers to try it out. He brought the Yairi and tweaked the tuning. What a beautiful instrument. I started to strum and pick on it, and I was absolutely stunned. I returned the guitar right away, because I knew that if I continued playing it, I would have to buy a guitar I couldn't afford. I asked about a Yairi model at a more reasonable price, and the sales clerk offered an Alvarez AD80S dreadnought. To make a long story short, the tone on the AD80S was very close to that of the Yairi, and I bought it. I still have that beauty, and I just played it yesterday, and it continues to beguile me, and chuckle when I think it was a "consolation" prize to replace the Yairi. In retrospect, I should have gone ahead purchasing that one on credit, but the decision was made to get the Alvarez, and I have not been sorry about it. Oh, in case some readers don't know, both Yairi and Alvarez are/were made by the same company.
Thank you featuring this guitar. I have this same model, and another Yairi from the 80’s. This guitar sounds as bold as a big Gibson and as clear/articulate and balanced as a Martin.
The shop I used to work for got one of these around 2013. The owner was so taken with it he held it back for his personal collection for years. Eventually he moved it to the sales floor with the rest of the high end acoustics and adamantly refused to cut anyone a deal on it when he'd get the rare interested buyer. I finally begged him into parting with it last week, It really is a breathtakingly special model.
My Alvarez AD66SHB Dreadnought is a wonderful guitar. The solid African Mahogany top with laminate African Mahogany back and sides is amazing. The Yairi is in a class by itself.
I bought two new Alvarez-Yairi guitars in 1982 from the Clearwater Guitar Gallery in Clearwater, Florida - a DY-60 six-string dreadnaught and a DY-76 twelve-string dreadnaught. Over the last 40+ years, these guitars have traveled the globe with me and I will never sell them.
I'm grateful that I got the attention of Japanese guitars for the first time.Yairi guitars (named Alvarez Yairi overseas, which has nothing to do with Korean Alvarez guitars) have the same long history as YAMAHA. The name Yairi is popular in Japan with K.yairi because the CEOname is Kazuo Yari (died in 2014). In particular, Yairi guitars are manufactured only in Japan, and the workshop is made by less than 30 craftsmen and sold in Japan and abroad.It's also a unique and innovative manufacturer. It's a great manufacturer with three top builders on the custom line. I have 1995 custom jumbo model of jacaranda. Thank you from🇯🇵🙇♂️
I am a proud owner of a 1994 Yairi DY 70. Sitka spruce top, Flame maple back and sides. Beautiful guitar. Craftsmanship is the best i"ve seen anywhere.
I love my Alvarez so much, I actually keep it right near the top of my bed, as I love the fact that I can just grab it and start playing. I've hardly ever had to adjust the tuning!! just amazing!!
Great content as always Jeremy! I don't have a Yairi or even an Alvarez but I am thoroughly impressed with everything I've learned about them! I have enough guitars at this point that I love (though a baritone may be in my future), but I love learning about great guitars. I know I've posted this previously but you are the one who introduced me to Furch and my Furch Yellow Master's Choice Gc-CR was my dream purchase and I am so completely in love with that guitar so thank you again for introducing me to my dream guitar!!
I bought my first Alvarez Yairi in 1982. It's a DY45 satin finish. I still have it, my dependable go to guitar. Love it, love the tone, love the resonance and love the way it plays. I have owned everything from Kay, Harmony, Guild, Gibson, Yamaha, Fender and even Martin...I'll take my Alvarez Yairi.
Some of my favorite heroes played this brand such as Johnny Cash, Zakk Wylde (12 string)..etc to name a couple. One day I will add one to my collection, congratulations on your new guitar 🍻
On my way to Japan and have arranged to visit the K.Yairi factory in Kani. Actually my wife arranged the visit and we are going there with my two sons. It’s like a dream coming true. I too have been sooooo slow to understand how amazing these guitars are.
I own a 1977 K.Yairi YW-500P I paid 500.00 American for it in Japan. It’s really a special guitar. I love my vintage Alvarez guitars but the Yairi is such a tone monster and a great finger picking guitar as well. Have not played new ones though. Thanks Jeremy.🎶
I recently bought an Alvarez. It's the first acoustic over $1000 I've owned. My first impression was, "It's beautiful". My second impression was, "It's flawless". I've had it for about two months now and I absolutely love it. It's not my go to guitar yet, I still like playing my much less expensive guitar and keep the Alvarez at home where it's safe.
Hey Jeremy, you should check out Monte Montgomery and his music. He plays an Alvarez Yairi, and even has a signature model. Anyway, keep up the good work!
Totally agree with you Jeremy and it was awesome to see your passion for the guitar show clearly as you tlked and later played. However while talking about guitarists who used Alvarez-Yairi just thought id suggest the name of legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore who has his signature Alvarez-Yairi guitar model
How you pronounce Yairi is the way I've been pronouncing it for years and I was told that was the correct way. I own about 9 Alvarez Master Work series and they're phenomenal guitars! My favorite is the all mahogany Alvarez MD66SHB! It is a spectacular guitar!
I bought a Yairi WYK1 in 98 without even knowing what I was getting. At the time I just wanted a good acoustic guitar. What I got was a phenomenal acoustic guitar that has been my undisputed #1 choice. While beautiful, it not only has a to-die-for warm and cutting sound, but also plays like a dream. I was more of a lead electric guitar player before the purchase, and this instrument facilitated my transition to acoustic shows brilliantly. I plan to save up for a DYMR70SB soon. Will sell a few other acoustics to help out, guitars that I hoped would be a qualifying backup to the Yairi but just don’t compare.
I too love my Yairi . I have a 86 Dy 75 with a regular bridge not the new Alvarez bridge. I also own a 2013 DYM 95c Aura both amazing sounding guitars n easy to play neck.
Good video I've had mine for 3 years now and I wouldn't trade it for anything it's awesome! I also have a 1985 DYM45 that's the easiest guitar to I've seen to play Yairi are wonderful!
I think Jeremy’s worst nightmare would him walking into a bar and having to see a cover band all playing Taylor’s 😂 🤣 I am joking! I love your videos, thx for sharing 😉
As long as they don't start making drums. (Given how they're both based in California and are both massively into sourcing unusual woods from around the world, I'd have thought DW would make a good takeover for them, but Roland got there first.)
@@0713mas Mine is a 2011,712 ce,w/Lutz top, Indian rosewood b & s. Not a slotted head,or 12th fret , with v bracing,but it sounds awesome. Jeremy would not whisper about this Taylor 🤫 !
Joe Bonamassa has a signature Álvarez-Yairi that looks like this one but is a single cutaway. I saw him play it on tour. There’s also a RUclips video of the Álvarez-Yairi factory. They do some interesting things like putting the kerfing on the sides before bending them. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it done that way before.
I bought my DY57S Yari in 1978 brand new and I just last year replaced the frets for the first time. Other than that, It's all original. I play it almost daily.
Very VERY nice Jeremy! Gorgeous looking and sounding guitar. And no plastic knobs or control panels mounted on the body of the guitar thus preserving the beauty of its construction. I probably can’t afford one.
I became aware of Yairi guitars from Alvarez after I purchased my first acoustic baritone (Artist Series ABT60) from them. The main reason I bought it- they were the first company that made one in a left-handed version that was affordable and well-reviewed. It was well worth the sub $400 I paid for it. Fast forward 3 years- I'm searching for something a bit more "high-end" & stumble across an online music store in Texas called "Musician's Madness" that just so happen to be a top dealer for Alvarez guitars & just happen to have a LH Yairi "YB70L" baritone in stock....for less than $1800. I jumped on it, knowing it's probably the only one on the planet. You see, Alvarez doesn't do custom orders for lefties unless one is requested from a top authorized dealer or is part of a "special run" that Alvarez does for their top retailers every now & then. I can agree with & corroborate everything Jeremy stated about the care, detail & quality that goes into making these special guitars. Alvarez makes acoustic guitars that punch well above their price-point, & the that goes for the Yairi line they champion as well, even more so. My guitar took 9 months to complete from the time the build began to the day it was boxed up for shipping. I can say with utmost confidence that it will be with me until the day comes where I either cannot play it anymore, or the sand has emptied from the top of my life's hourglass into the bottom half.
I have a Signed (date stamped inside) 1967 CBS Masterworks Model Y1050 Kazuo Yairi Adjustable Bridge, Looks like solid wood. It sounds like a church full of choir boys when strummed. I got it for free.99 doing property clean outs. I had no clue what it was till I restrung it. Wow what a sound. I loosened the strings, sacked it up in a case, hid in the back of the closet like gold.
I have had 3 Yairi’s over the years, all traded away but miss them all like lost children. They were all well made and sounded great. I went through a phase selling off my imports and acoustics that had any veneer construction. A 12-fret dreadnought is an amazing sounding instrument with the longer body. Glad to see they are still making some in Japan.
I traded a Krugerrand for a brand new dy74c in the mid seventies I think gold was about 400 an ounce then. In of the best guitars I ever owned, and I had a dove and a d18 at that time, I had paid 100 each for from a friend in Louisiana, they were just used guitars back then
Just discovered Alvarez guitars and bought the masterworks bluegrass model. Unbelievably good guitar for the money! I'm keeping one Martin, the SC-13E, I'm definitely done with Taylors after owning a good many. The Alvarez blows them away.. Loved your rendition at the end 'Will ye go, lassie go.'
Damn I really want to play one! I've had the chance to play a high end yamaha ls56 gorgeous, the most balanced guitar i've ever played, thanks for the video, cheers!
I live in San Diego, just a few miles from the Taylor factory. I’m supposed to be a “hometown” guy, right? I saved up for a long time, finally got one…it was pretty, sounded better than average, but just didn’t “hit” me. Had to sell it, did a little more research and have since bought two more acoustics that I am in love with. In no small part thanks to you and your videos, kind sir.
Yairi's are spectacular guitars. Own the DY-200 from way back in early 2000's. Would give my left arm for another 200, 100, or the FY-200 today. As strong as any of the legendary American brands. Direct coupled bridge a great design for solid bridge and the break angle. Btw- Jerry Garcia was a Yairi artist.
I've been knowing about these guitars for years. I have a Yamaha L-5 . 1979 a special rare Rosewood back and sides with a Spruce top and Ebony fretboard and bridge. They are in the same family of these Yaria guitars.
The one guitar I’ve managed to keep for some 35 years or so out of all I’ve ever owned is a YA classical guitar w/ single cutaway. I can’t tell you the model because the sticker in the sound hole fell off decades ago, but it’s a tremendous guitar. It makes me sound like a much better guitarist than I actually am. Between Alvarez and Seagull you really don’t need to spend a fortune to have a great sounding acoustic guitar.
I purchased a DYM60HD a few months ago, on spec. It's everything I read/heard about. Clean, precise hand carved neck with an amazing transition of profile from the nut up. Ebony Fretboard has a polished look & a silky feel. Clarity of tone is standout. Originally strung with D'Addario EXP PB's, now replaced with Elixir NW PB's ......unfortunately not an improvement from my perspective.
Ehh... gotta take exception to this for the Yamaha Custom Shop: the LL/S/J 36-56 & FG/S9 series easily match these high-end Yairis, and unit-by-unit sometimes one or the other will exceed. My Yammy LL56 eats my Yairi DYM70 (and almost everything else) for breakfast. I love them both dearly.
I started playing drums in 1962. Played in a couple of bands back in the day. I got married in 1970, went to college, and got a “real” job. In early 1973, living in a very small home, with a very large drums set, we discovered that we had a baby in the way. So I decided that guitar would take up much less room. Also wouldn’t piss the neighbors off or wake up coming rug rat. I sold the drums and bought a guitar. I still have it. It is a 1970 Yairi classical imported by Wilson. I also bought a book and started to learn guitar. Got frustrated and quit. I repeated that senecio every 3 to 5 years until I retired 4 years ago. I can now play guitar. I may live long enough to actually say that with confidence! 😬 Shortly after starting to learn again I bought a Taylor GS-Mini that is much easier to play than the wide necked classical. But it is satisfying to actually hear some, somewhat, decent music coming from the old Yairi. It is still in very good shape because it came with a nice case. However it is 53 years old and shows some of its age.
I lived in Tokyo for 20 years, dealing in guitars. The name is pronounced Ya-ee-ree and you will get bonus points if you give the middle syllable a little emphasis and slip a little "d" into the "r." When I returned to California in 2008, I became the buyer for used acoustic guitars for a major chain there. I still miss Japan. If you get a chance visit the country. It's pretty amazing. Tq
I’m on my way there right now 🙌
Jeremy, I'm glad to see you praise a guitar that isn't a legacy or boutique brand. I'm a huge Alvarez and Alvarez-Yairi fan, I own seventeen Alvarez, and six A-Y guitars. The oldest is a '72 Alvarez 5014, the newest are my '04 Alvarez AJ60SC-12, and my '04 Alvarez-Yairi DY-84. Two things I noticed here that I want to mention for you. First, Kazuo Yairi pronounced his family name (on video) as (y-eye REE). Second, Yairi Gita (in the town of Kani, Gifu prefecture, Japan, just up the mountain from Nagoya) was founded in 1932, incorporated in 1935 by Kazuo's father (he made traditional Japanese instruments), and became Yairi Gita after Kazuo took over following his father's death. The Alvarez brand was purchased in 1964 (from a small Mexican company), and introduced in the U.S. by St. Louis Music in 1965. Alvarez-Yairi debuted in the early '70's through a partnership between St. Louis Music and Yairi Gita (Kazuo Yairi). 1973 was the first year of the A-Y headstock logo, 1974 saw the debut of the CY, DY, and FY model prefixes. Like all other manufacturers, it got to be where you had to pay extra for the solid-wood guitars (Masterworks), but the DYMR70SB (Dreadnought, Yairi, Masterworks, Rosewood, model 70, Sunburst) you demo'd here is still half, or less, the price of a comparable Martin, sounds amazing, and will go longer without major repairs. My 1973 Alvarez-Yairi Model 5065 (DY-74) was purchased new by a music teacher, and played daily until she was no longer able to play. It has never had a neck reset, and doesn't need one. How many of the legacy brands from that era can you say that about?
I've been playing the Same K Yairi as my main guitar for 42 years... Didn't even know what I was buying at the time. I'm Not a brand name shopper, If it feels great, then it is.I was lucky. I've been scoffed at for saying that it was on Par with the big boys...Guess What? I was right All along. They are fantastic.The tops of these guitars are in storage and curing for 30 years before they are applied to a body...That's insane!! They put them in a room and play All kinds of different music for a month so they can vibrate while the glues cure. I can play the hell out of it and rarely tune it. I can go on for days... Kazuo passed away in 2014( that was HIS bridge design) and I hope they stay true to their philosophy. I urge you to seek out their Factory tour on RUclips. Peace.
What wonderful information, sincere thanks, I have owned a few Alvarez and Yairi Yairi Acoustic's in the past, they were all good, however I now own 3 Yamaha's, 1 being a early 70's FG 180, the other an FGX 830 C, an FSX 800C, and an FGC-TA, and the last one is quite simply mindblowing ( with its speaker/ amp in it, which is great when you're playing along with another acoustic and you need a little extra volume to make 1 stand out just a little from the other 😊😊😊
I have a dy91 that I cherish it is a musical piece of art in my opinion as are all Yairi guitars looks plays and sounds like no other
Brother! I thought I was a Alvarez guy cause I have 5. lol my rarest is a Alvarez series 1590. Rock on dude
Yairi guitars are one of the best kept secrets in the guitar world. I have a 1990 DY-77 that I bought new and I have played it almost exclusively since then and it has been an excellent instrument. There have been no issues except I've had the first 5 frets replaced. I've never had to adjust the truss rod and the action is still low with no buzz. There is a good video on RUclips of the Yairi workshop showing all of the hand work that goes into these guitars.
Japanese craftsmanship and quality has always been hard to beat. Thanks for the review.
You are absolutely correct. Whether it's Yamaha, Alvarez..........but the true king of the Japanese quality has, and always will be: Takamine. Technically, they began production in 1959, but it was soon after in 1962 ( the year I was born ) when they changed their name to Takamine and became truly "an official Japanese company". They chose the name Takamine because their factory has always been located in the Takamine valley, right at the foot of the Takamine mountain. (......or is it "mountains" )
My wife bought me a 1986 Yairi DY67. I was upset she didn’t let me go see and try it first, but the sale guy and my best buddy helped her find it for me. Turns out it was perfect.
👆👆Text me on telegram special Gift 🎁🎉 for you.
My wife bought me an Alvarez about 25 years ago and it's still an amazing guitar, it gets better with age, an absolutely amazing guitar
Had a 12 string Alvarez. Best guitar I ever owned.
I must be watching a different video. This is a Yiari, not an Alvarez. Alvarez is the bastardised version of Yiari guitars.
My brother, who btw, was a Grammy nominated writer this year, has played one of these almost every night somewhere in Nashville for the past 20 something years. It's a wonderful music box. He was co-writer on a team. They didn't win but is an honor to have ever been nominated. Buy one. Maybe there's a Grammy waiting inside it to be played by you.
How I escaped guitar snobbery. In the 70s I arrived late in the evening at a bluegrass festival. I approached a campfire with a number of players jamming, none of whom I knew. Immediately, someone asked, "Do you play guitar? I'm worn out. Play mine.". He handed me what I perceived to be an old Martin Dreadnaught. I thought what an opportunity to play this fine guitar! After some time I realized it was an Alvarez Yairi! Nice.
My 1989 Yairi FY65 signature series is absolutely superior to my Taylor 812c. Sustains sound twice as long, although not quite as deep, and the Yairi tuning hardware is unbelievably superior! Plays so nicely, holds tuning perfectly. Saw Bob Weir playing my model on tour the night I purchased mine at Thomas and Mack in Las Vegas NV. Still today just resonates. Has sailed the entire east coast, Bahamas multiple times, and crossed country many times. Truly a beautiful guitar. Nice video. Thank you for proper pronunciation, always wondered about that? Keep on keeping on...
I only found one Suzuki once upon a time in a pawn shop that was equal to an A.Y. This was 35-40 years ago. I've owned three different model Martins -18-28-35, a Gibson Gospel-#000501, a mid-70s sunburst Hummingbird, And my first one in 1969, an all-mahogany little Harmony that was a rel treat to play. That A.Y. and Suzuki are most memorable for neck shape, fretboards, sustained delicate tone, and balance throughout the bass, middle, and upper ranges.
Sigh.... goodtimes now gone.
When I was younger and poorer, I bought my first good guitar. It was an all laminate Alvarez 5013.
Over the years I’ve owned 12 or 13, including a 1991 Yairi GY1.
It is by and large the best guitar I own.
And of all the guitars I’ve been blessed to be able to play, it’s in the top three.
People have been sleeping on them for decades.
Jeremy, great video as always. You probably don’t hear this enough: thanks for all you do. We appreciate you.
I second this.
I've had a DYMR70SB since 2016, absolutely brilliant guitar, if I ever narrow my collection down to one guitar it will be this one.
I’ve had the pleasure of playing an OM and a classical Yairi. Both vintage. I missed out buying the OM but the buyer let me play it.
Exceptional sound and build quality.
Great commentary on build quality, sound, AND not being a snob. And not trying to sound like someone else. Great video, great insight. Thank you
👆👆Text me on telegram special Gift 🎁🎉 for you.
Alvarez Yairi are some of the most incredible guitars in the world.
100% agree
I had an alvarez once. What a player she was . I miss her.
I have a 1985 Alvarez Yairi DY68 12 string. Wonderful playing guitar with beautiful tone as well as great projection.
I have a 1975 DY 68 had it all my life, Bought new when I was 17.
I noticed that this slotted headstock was strung in the BEST way, WITHOUT the sharp inward angle off the nut on the two outside "E" strings. I believe it is best when the strings come off the nut in more of a straighter line to each tuning peg. This puts less stress on the nut and creates a sharper angle in a downward direction for overall better tone. This means that the four internal strings end up on the inside and the two outside "E" strings end up on the outside.
This is my favorite brand. I’m so glad you posted this. I have the DY91.
I mentioned Yairi and their more affordable brand, Alvarez, a while ago (in the comments section). While I can't afford to get a Yairi, I do have an Alvarez MD60BG and it sounds great, for it's cost, @ $700.00.
It's an all solid wood, Sitka Spruce top and African mahogany back and sides. Has a mahogany neck with a glued in dovetail and also has a rosewood bridge, that has a milled down area for the pins. This area angles the strings down very sharply into the bridge pins.
I've made a few videos on that guitar and other affordable, all solid wood guitars on my channel.
It's awesome that you could show people this great guitar, that's not from the big 3 brands.
Over 20 years ago, I went into a small local music store to buy some guitar strings. It so happens that store is an Alvarez dealer. I decided to try out some of the other guitars. As I played, I reflected on a large Alvarez banner hanging in the store, so I asked if they sold Yairi guitars. The sales person was surprised at the question, and he said they had one, but because of its price, it was kept in the back, and would only allow certain customers to try it out. He brought the Yairi and tweaked the tuning. What a beautiful instrument. I started to strum and pick on it, and I was absolutely stunned. I returned the guitar right away, because I knew that if I continued playing it, I would have to buy a guitar I couldn't afford. I asked about a Yairi model at a more reasonable price, and the sales clerk offered an Alvarez AD80S dreadnought. To make a long story short, the tone on the AD80S was very close to that of the Yairi, and I bought it. I still have that beauty, and I just played it yesterday, and it continues to beguile me, and chuckle when I think it was a "consolation" prize to replace the Yairi. In retrospect, I should have gone ahead purchasing that one on credit, but the decision was made to get the Alvarez, and I have not been sorry about it. Oh, in case some readers don't know, both Yairi and Alvarez are/were made by the same company.
Thank you featuring this guitar. I have this same model, and another Yairi from the 80’s.
This guitar sounds as bold as a big Gibson and as clear/articulate and balanced as a Martin.
Love it, fantastic guitar. I’ve always liked Alvarez guitars.
I own a 1976 DY-74, purchased from the sale of a Martin 12-string long ago
The shop I used to work for got one of these around 2013. The owner was so taken with it he held it back for his personal collection for years. Eventually he moved it to the sales floor with the rest of the high end acoustics and adamantly refused to cut anyone a deal on it when he'd get the rare interested buyer. I finally begged him into parting with it last week, It really is a breathtakingly special model.
My Alvarez AD66SHB Dreadnought is a wonderful guitar. The solid African Mahogany top with laminate African Mahogany back and sides is amazing. The Yairi is in a class by itself.
I bought two new Alvarez-Yairi guitars in 1982 from the Clearwater Guitar Gallery in Clearwater, Florida - a DY-60 six-string dreadnaught and a DY-76 twelve-string dreadnaught. Over the last 40+ years, these guitars have traveled the globe with me and I will never sell them.
I'm grateful that I got the attention of Japanese guitars for the first time.Yairi guitars (named Alvarez Yairi overseas, which has nothing to do with Korean Alvarez guitars) have the same long history as YAMAHA. The name Yairi is popular in Japan with K.yairi because the CEOname is Kazuo Yari (died in 2014). In particular, Yairi guitars are manufactured only in Japan, and the workshop is made by less than 30 craftsmen and sold in Japan and abroad.It's also a unique and innovative manufacturer. It's a great manufacturer with three top builders on the custom line. I have 1995 custom jumbo model of jacaranda. Thank you from🇯🇵🙇♂️
Sounds amazing I need one of these
Ohhh.
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I am a proud owner of a 1994 Yairi DY 70. Sitka spruce top, Flame maple back and sides. Beautiful guitar. Craftsmanship is the best i"ve seen anywhere.
I love my Alvarez so much, I actually keep it right near the top of my bed, as I love the fact that I can just grab it and start playing. I've hardly ever had to adjust the tuning!! just amazing!!
Great content as always Jeremy!
I don't have a Yairi or even an Alvarez but I am thoroughly impressed with everything I've learned about them!
I have enough guitars at this point that I love (though a baritone may be in my future), but I love learning about great guitars.
I know I've posted this previously but you are the one who introduced me to Furch and my Furch Yellow Master's Choice Gc-CR was my dream purchase and I am so completely in love with that guitar so thank you again for introducing me to my dream guitar!!
I own a DY91 Koa w sitka top mahogany neck Very loud and beautiful sound hand made by those masters on that mountain in Japan very nice
I bought my first Alvarez Yairi in 1982. It's a DY45 satin finish. I still have it, my dependable go to guitar. Love it, love the tone, love the resonance and love the way it plays. I have owned everything from Kay, Harmony, Guild, Gibson, Yamaha, Fender and even Martin...I'll take my Alvarez Yairi.
my cousin have been to the factory, just awesome, he have 3 yairi.
I just got one and all I can say WOW best guitar I own bar none. Better yet my Sweetwater rep had a demo he sold me for $2200 and it was flawless.
I have a 71,. 12 fret, slothead 5045. Articulate, yet bulletproof. Top is layered and very thin...
Some of my favorite heroes played this brand such as Johnny Cash, Zakk Wylde (12 string)..etc to name a couple. One day I will add one to my collection, congratulations on your new guitar 🍻
On my way to Japan and have arranged to visit the K.Yairi factory in Kani. Actually my wife arranged the visit and we are going there with my two sons. It’s like a dream coming true. I too have been sooooo slow to understand how amazing these guitars are.
I own a 1977 K.Yairi YW-500P I paid 500.00 American for it in Japan. It’s really a special guitar. I love my vintage Alvarez guitars but the Yairi is such a tone monster and a great finger picking guitar as well. Have not played new ones though. Thanks Jeremy.🎶
I recently bought an Alvarez. It's the first acoustic over $1000 I've owned. My first impression was, "It's beautiful". My second impression was, "It's flawless". I've had it for about two months now and I absolutely love it. It's not my go to guitar yet, I still like playing my much less expensive guitar and keep the Alvarez at home where it's safe.
Alvarez guitars are made with integrity with discipline. Enjoy your lifelong companion!!!🙏
Thanks to Jeremy and Chris, I was fortunate enough to play this guitar and WOW. Plays wonderfully and sounds amazing. Looks like I need to save up!
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Sounds Absolutely amazing. I could only dream of owning one of these.
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The Bob Weir Yairi is a silky smooth dreadnaught. You’ve got a 12 fret winner.
I have an alvaraz- yairi guitar. They're phenomenal. Thanks for the video.
Gibson J45 12 Fret are one of my most favoured guitars in the world.
This Alvarez version sounds beautiful in your hands, Jeremy.
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Gibson acoustics are overrated!
Sounds really great.
Hey Jeremy, you should check out Monte Montgomery and his music. He plays an Alvarez Yairi, and even has a signature model. Anyway, keep up the good work!
Looks fabulous..
Sounds amazing!
Totally agree with you Jeremy and it was awesome to see your passion for the guitar show clearly as you tlked and later played. However while talking about guitarists who used Alvarez-Yairi just thought id suggest the name of legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore who has his signature Alvarez-Yairi guitar model
I love it at the end, where you just sit there clearly mesmerized by the tone and sustain...like you got hit by something !
Jerry Garcia's play one as well and when I seen that I knew I had to have one they are great guitars
This guitar made me quiver all over! Beautiful sound!
How you pronounce Yairi is the way I've been pronouncing it for years and I was told that was the correct way. I own about 9 Alvarez Master Work series and they're phenomenal guitars! My favorite is the all mahogany Alvarez MD66SHB! It is a spectacular guitar!
Playing the WY-1 sb Cedar/Maple/ for 23 years. It only gets better. It was a demo model from a NAMM Show. I was lucky to its first owner.
👍👍 that's a sweetheart . sounds great
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I bought a Yairi WYK1 in 98 without even knowing what I was getting. At the time I just wanted a good acoustic guitar. What I got was a phenomenal acoustic guitar that has been my undisputed #1 choice. While beautiful, it not only has a to-die-for warm and cutting sound, but also plays like a dream. I was more of a lead electric guitar player before the purchase, and this instrument facilitated my transition to acoustic shows brilliantly. I plan to save up for a DYMR70SB soon. Will sell a few other acoustics to help out, guitars that I hoped would be a qualifying backup to the Yairi but just don’t compare.
Alvarez & Alvarez Yairi are suprisingly underestimated guitars..well not as mentioned others
I too love my Yairi . I have a 86 Dy 75 with a regular bridge not the new Alvarez bridge. I also own a 2013 DYM 95c Aura both amazing sounding guitars n easy to play neck.
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Good video I've had mine for 3 years now and I wouldn't trade it for anything it's awesome! I also have a 1985 DYM45 that's the easiest guitar to I've seen to play Yairi are wonderful!
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This guitar sounds AMAZING! Thanks for the share 🙏
That is an amazing sounding guitar.
I have two yairi,s made n 1984. I love them..
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I have a 53 year old Yairi D-10..😉🎼🎸🥰
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I think Jeremy’s worst nightmare would him walking into a bar and having to see a cover band all playing Taylor’s 😂 🤣 I am joking! I love your videos, thx for sharing 😉
As long as they don't start making drums. (Given how they're both based in California and are both massively into sourcing unusual woods from around the world, I'd have thought DW would make a good takeover for them, but Roland got there first.)
My 1996 Taylor 714 kicks ass!
@@0713mas Mine is a 2011,712 ce,w/Lutz top, Indian rosewood b & s.
Not a slotted head,or 12th fret , with v bracing,but it sounds awesome.
Jeremy would not whisper about this Taylor 🤫 !
such a beautiful instrument, the sound is other worldly!
Joe Bonamassa has a signature Álvarez-Yairi that looks like this one but is a single cutaway. I saw him play it on tour. There’s also a RUclips video of the Álvarez-Yairi factory. They do some interesting things like putting the kerfing on the sides before bending them. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it done that way before.
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Beautiful 👍
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I bought my DY57S Yari in 1978 brand new and I just last year replaced the frets for the first time. Other than that, It's all original. I play it almost daily.
Nice. I like videos that explain the little details about the guitar that make a difference -- like the bridge on this guitar.
Very VERY nice Jeremy! Gorgeous looking and sounding guitar. And no plastic knobs or control panels mounted on the body of the guitar thus preserving the beauty of its construction. I probably can’t afford one.
I became aware of Yairi guitars from Alvarez after I purchased my first acoustic baritone (Artist Series ABT60) from them. The main reason I bought it- they were the first company that made one in a left-handed version that was affordable and well-reviewed. It was well worth the sub $400 I paid for it. Fast forward 3 years- I'm searching for something a bit more "high-end" & stumble across an online music store in Texas called "Musician's Madness" that just so happen to be a top dealer for Alvarez guitars & just happen to have a LH Yairi "YB70L" baritone in stock....for less than $1800. I jumped on it, knowing it's probably the only one on the planet. You see, Alvarez doesn't do custom orders for lefties unless one is requested from a top authorized dealer or is part of a "special run" that Alvarez does for their top retailers every now & then. I can agree with & corroborate everything Jeremy stated about the care, detail & quality that goes into making these special guitars. Alvarez makes acoustic guitars that punch well above their price-point, & the that goes for the Yairi line they champion as well, even more so. My guitar took 9 months to complete from the time the build began to the day it was boxed up for shipping. I can say with utmost confidence that it will be with me until the day comes where I either cannot play it anymore, or the sand has emptied from the top of my life's hourglass into the bottom half.
I have a Signed (date stamped inside) 1967 CBS Masterworks Model Y1050 Kazuo Yairi
Adjustable Bridge, Looks like solid wood. It sounds like a church full of choir boys when strummed.
I got it for free.99
doing property clean outs. I had no clue what it was till I restrung it. Wow what a sound.
I loosened the strings, sacked it up in a case, hid in the back of the closet like gold.
Very nice outro piece of playing, Sound-wise,12-fret dreads are hard to beat.
I have had 3 Yairi’s over the years, all traded away but miss them all like lost children. They were all well made and sounded great. I went through a phase selling off my imports and acoustics that had any veneer construction. A 12-fret dreadnought is an amazing sounding instrument with the longer body. Glad to see they are still making some in Japan.
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I traded a Krugerrand for a brand new dy74c in the mid seventies I think gold was about 400 an ounce then. In of the best guitars I ever owned, and I had a dove and a d18 at that time, I had paid 100 each for from a friend in Louisiana, they were just used guitars back then
I picked up a FYM66HD recently, it is a Steinway of guitar.
Just discovered Alvarez guitars and bought the masterworks bluegrass model. Unbelievably good guitar for the money! I'm keeping one Martin, the SC-13E, I'm definitely done with Taylors after owning a good many. The Alvarez blows them away.. Loved your rendition at the end 'Will ye go, lassie go.'
Damn I really want to play one! I've had the chance to play a high end yamaha ls56 gorgeous, the most balanced guitar i've ever played, thanks for the video, cheers!
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I wish more guitar builders went with clear pickguards.
Yamaha fg acoustic guitar has the clear pick guard
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It's a beauty. I've been lusting for one of those for about 4 months.
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I live in San Diego, just a few miles from the Taylor factory. I’m supposed to be a “hometown” guy, right? I saved up for a long time, finally got one…it was pretty, sounded better than average, but just didn’t “hit” me. Had to sell it, did a little more research and have since bought two more acoustics that I am in love with. In no small part thanks to you and your videos, kind sir.
Great vid and guitar. I own the mdr version of that guitar. It’s an incredible instrument. I can imagine the Yairi is truly something special to play.
The MD is amazing! We're going to make a comparison video.
@@JeremySheppard looking forward to it!
I agree with your statement. Alvarez Yairi is on top of Japanese Acoustics. I have the DYMHD and it’s like a Steinway
Yairi's are spectacular guitars. Own the DY-200 from way back in early 2000's. Would give my left arm for another 200, 100, or the FY-200 today. As strong as any of the legendary American brands. Direct coupled bridge a great design for solid bridge and the break angle. Btw- Jerry Garcia was a Yairi artist.
Just wonderful guitars. I’ve always liked Alvarez guitars. They sound wonderful.
Oh my poor Chris. My heart goes out to anyone in such a situation esp when their livelihood is involved
I've been knowing about these guitars for years. I have a Yamaha L-5 . 1979 a special rare Rosewood back and sides with a Spruce top and Ebony fretboard and bridge. They are in the same family of these Yaria guitars.
The one guitar I’ve managed to keep for some 35 years or so out of all I’ve ever owned is a YA classical guitar w/ single cutaway. I can’t tell you the model because the sticker in the sound hole fell off decades ago, but it’s a tremendous guitar. It makes me sound like a much better guitarist than I actually am. Between Alvarez and Seagull you really don’t need to spend a fortune to have a great sounding acoustic guitar.
Nice opening tune. That guitar does sound nice.
Thank you Jeremy!
That thing sounds amazing! Thank you for sharing.
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"People are people and they're not other people." Deep thoughts by Jeremy Shepherd.
😂
That’s a beautiful elegant looking dreadnaught!
I purchased a DYM60HD a few months ago, on spec. It's everything I read/heard about. Clean, precise hand carved neck with an amazing transition of profile from the nut up. Ebony Fretboard has a polished look & a silky feel. Clarity of tone is standout. Originally strung with D'Addario EXP PB's, now replaced with Elixir NW PB's ......unfortunately not an improvement from my perspective.
Ehh... gotta take exception to this for the Yamaha Custom Shop: the LL/S/J 36-56 & FG/S9 series easily match these high-end Yairis, and unit-by-unit sometimes one or the other will exceed. My Yammy LL56 eats my Yairi DYM70 (and almost everything else) for breakfast. I love them both dearly.
I started playing drums in 1962. Played in a couple of bands back in the day. I got married in 1970, went to college, and got a “real” job. In early 1973, living in a very small home, with a very large drums set, we discovered that we had a baby in the way. So I decided that guitar would take up much less room. Also wouldn’t piss the neighbors off or wake up coming rug rat. I sold the drums and bought a guitar. I still have it. It is a 1970 Yairi classical imported by Wilson. I also bought a book and started to learn guitar. Got frustrated and quit. I repeated that senecio every 3 to 5 years until I retired 4 years ago. I can now play guitar. I may live long enough to actually say that with confidence! 😬 Shortly after starting to learn again I bought a Taylor GS-Mini that is much easier to play than the wide necked classical. But it is satisfying to actually hear some, somewhat, decent music coming from the old Yairi. It is still in very good shape because it came with a nice case. However it is 53 years old and shows some of its age.
I can see you really enjoy playing this Guitar..it's difficult for anyone to hide that.
Love my FYM60HD. That old mahogany really makes a difference.
Yes
Got the same one
The sound that it makes is so rich that the first time I heard it I thought it was a martin
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I still have my Sada Yairi guitar I bought in the mid 70's while in school. I understand that Sada Yairi was Kazou's uncle. Still plays great!
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