I have the fg 3, can't imagine the 5 been any better I've owned nippon gakki and tiawan 180s from the 70s as well and there is no difference but if money was no object and I hadn't played my fg3 I would go for the Japanese just because nice review
I give the FG5 a slight more snappy and fuller tone than the FG3, but again, change the bridge and nut with bone or tusq, and you just might make the competition between the two even closer.
Great video however If you’re going to compare you need to play exactly the same thing for both not flat pick and strum one and beautifully fingerpick the other Using a capo as well
Both are awesome, slight edge to the 5 series, warmer, smoother richer tone, and the wood pick guard, higher quality nut and saddle standard, higher quality case, and japanese workmanship, are definitely worth the $400 extra it cost in my area, but I would also take the FG3 in a heartbeat, and upgrade those components down the line, if money is an issue. The Value you get with both of these is absolutely incredible, they are genuinely as good as many $2500 and up USA Big name guitars. So FG5 for me🎼🎶🎵🏆🥇🎻🎸🎧🧐🙂🙃🙂🧐😻
you can get brighter strings.. for recording you want it less bright anyway. for live through a PA you can dial in more or less highs... If you were use this for bar gigs go with the cheaper one.. and dont stress about a little scratch or someone wanting to play it.. or it getting stolen.. then take the rest of the cash you saved and get a great acoustic amp or acoustic multieffects.. People get so hung up on these comparisons and labels etc.. get the one you like best.. but its not always gonna be the expensive toy that makes you happy.
I think that the FS3 sounds better. The heavier pickgard and saddle of the FS5 make it less vibrant, which is particulary true for the high frequencies, thus the FS3 sounds higher, but also much more responsive.
probably because of the bone saddle and nut and ebony bridge pins, versus plastic, and hand set vs automatic machine, and slighter better wood possibly, or at least the first pick go to Japan.
I'm sure the 3 would be very close to the 5 if the saddle pins and nut were upgraded. The 3 sounded pretty good to me though to be fair. I think I'd be happy with the 3.
The three seems boomier, and the five more compressed. I say, for live jamming, the three is awesome. For recording, you would be wise to spend the extra cash on the five.
FG5 has a punchier bass and more subtle mids and highs. FG3 is good as well with its evenly louder projection, especially for the highs. As for value, buy what you can afford. Both are good guitars.
Both lovely, the 5 has a bit more depth or growl and I want one but would be very happy with the 3. Really nice fingerstyle tune towards the end, just beautiful.
Don't get me wrong , Taylor makes wonderful guitars , however, the Taylors I really like are way out of my price range and the ones that aren't .........well........ I'd have to look to another brand for the "warm sound" I prefer.
What a great review. I've read in the specs that the 3 has a 1.73 nut width and the 5 has a 1.75 nut width. Is that right? I thought the layout on both guitars were identical other than the small various additions. Thanks!
Great play and demo. In this case I prefer FS-3 tone apparently. I already have a great guitar which backsides are made by rosewood. I wanna try it but sold out due to corona.
Thanks for that. Was gonna buy a used fgx3 for a good price but I will keep my money and put it towards a fgx5 ... The 5 sounds warmer, deeper and shall we say more Martin like than the 3 to my ears anyway
I really like my fgx3. I ordered an fgx5 too and it’s neck was cracked on arrival. They aren’t packed too well and the fgx5 case does not have a neck guide near the headstock so it moves and is easy to crack. It still worked though so I checked the tone. I liked it. It’s a bit different but I couldn’t say it is better. The fgx3 tone is that good.
They sound exactly the same. I’ve played the FG3 and it is gorgeous sounding. Like the sound as much as D18 that I also played. Going to buy the FG3. It’s a 3000 dollar plus sounding and quality guitar for under 1000👍😃🔥
Jarvis you've done it again aha. How good are those red labels. I've just seen the d18 v red label brilliant. What's the rosewood yamaha alternative to compare to these? I'd love to pair the 2 Yamahas but I can't see a rosewood version. I love not just the tone but look of these. They really look great in that colour. But the price is amazing and I know what the neck profile is like if it is the same as the ll26 are that I had. That was a great guitar but unfortunately I sold it as the high e and b string was too bright for me. I should've change the nut and it may have changed that however I didnt know at the time. Bah hey ho
Hi Jarvis. Is the body dimensions the same as a typical martin dreadnought? Seems a little smaller or scooped in the waist/curvier, if that makes sense.
I can’t really find any difference that a little time and effort could reduce even more (changing to bone/tusq nuts and ebony/tusq saddle pins)... imo the fg(x)5 is a collectible and the fg(x)3 is a player! One is a piece of art the other is a work horse! That’s it! Just purchased an ac3m btw for the same reasons... not much between the 3 and 5 series ;)
Listings for the FG3 on various sites say it is made in Japan. Did this change since March 2020? (Nevermind: It looks like SamAsh and a bunch of other dealers have it listed wrong. Yamaha's own site only shows made in Japan for the 5-series, like you said.)
Honest opinion, what would you recommend between FG5 or the LL6? , I have my eyes on one of these, unfortunately they're only available online, meaning I cant try them and decide but I am willing to pull the trigger and buy one
According to my ear buds,, The fG3 sounds a bit sharper , with less warmth ,, the FG5 has softer highs , but much warmer tone.. Both guitars seem to have pretty good bottom end 🤷♂️ I’d say it’s worth spending the extra cash and to for the FG5 👌
@@elsizzle2000 suggest you watch the individual videos of each model on my channel .. the 3 is made in China and 5 is in Japan .. 3 plastic saddle and nut , 5 is bone .. 3 is plastic pickguard , 5 is wooden pickguard .. 3 is gig bag .. 5 is hard case...
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore I understand that. I should clarify - which one sounds better? It says in your title which one sounds better. Unfortunately no stores near me have these models so I can't compare the tone/ sound.
The reality is that China's ability to mass produce premium guitars is second to none at this point. I still see a lot of reviewers belittle Chinese-made guitars (e.g., they'll go bonkers praising a Martin or Guild or whatever and when the Chinese/Asian premium guitar is reviewed they'll say wonderful, wonderful quality and sound but nothing to really distinguish itself, something like that). At this stage if I were buying a premium guitar the only reason I would get a Martin would be that it holds its value and that there is always a market in the US of people wanting to buy it used. If you buy an expensive Yamaha or Eastman, even if you save 20-40% upfront, it will be harder selling it down the road. If you are just looking for a great sounding instrument and plan to keep it forever, I really see no objective performance difference between a US icon like a Martin versus a top of the line Yamaha or Takamine regardless of where its made. You'll save 30-40% by going with the non-US brand but the resale value will be lower as well.
FG5 sounds more open, warm and bell-like. FG3 sounds more congested, nasal and brassy than the FG3. If you want the best deal, FG3. If you want the best sound, FG5.
i was really wondering what was the difference between the two fg’s exept one was made in japan and the other one was made in china. Almost $700 dollars(american) difference between the two. maybe a little more better sound, and a better construction, is worth $700👍🏽 although the fg3 is not that bad to, maybe it will really depend on the player on how much does he really wanna spend, both are great guitars, i expected a lot with this series especially the fg5 and for me and my ears, the fg5 really sounds great🤘🏽
I change some settings and i guess the file was too huge and You Tube just auto cut it at around 17mins for my 3 videos and this is one of them. I have since change back the setting. I wanted a better audio and visual quality ...but i was wrong
Well China of the last few yrs have been building in their factories multiple brands of top of the line models..GUILD,FENDER, YAMAHAS OF MANY KINDS OF MODELS,MARTIN,TAYLOR,ALONG WITH THEIR OWN SPECIAL MODELS OF THEIR OWN BRAND NAMES.. JAPAN,HAS NOT BEEN PRODUCING THE AMOUNTS,OF THE PLETHORA OF ALL MODELS THE CHINESE ARE EVER ABUNDANTLY PRODUCING... THE QUALITY OF THEIR ABILITIES HAVE SKYROCKETED,TO GREATER LEVELS AND NUMBERS OF MAJOR BRANDS WHOM USE CHINA MOST FREQUENTLY OF ANYONE ELSE.. COMMON SENSE IS,JAPAN GETS COMPLACENT,AND TO RELAXED,HENCE, KNOWING CERTAIN VINTAGE MODELS OF THE MANY SORTS...YOU WONT THAT MANY OTHER JAPANESE MADE GUITARS THESE DAYS,COST OF LABOR ETC... THUS,WHEN THINK OF THE INSURMOUNTABLE QUALITIES THE CHINESE HAVE EMBRACED AND PRACTICED BUILDING A HORRENDOUS VARIETY OG GUITARS FAR EXCEEDING ANYONE ELSE IN THE WORLD...LET ALONE GENERICS AND ORIGINAL BRANDS OF EVERY MODEL IMAGINABLE,THROUGHOUT THE DECADES... HENCE, I CONSIDER THE COMMON SENSE,AND LOGIC IS, CHINA,HAS HAD MORE HANDS PRACTICE WITH MOST ALL THE MODELS OF GUITARS AROUND THE WORLD. IN CONCLUSION,THEIR HANDS ON EXPERIENCED HAS BEEN EVER PROFECTED, LEARNED KNOWLEDGE ON EVERY PRECISE AND EFFICIENT WAYS OF BUILDING DIFFERENT IDEAS...QUICKLY,AND ACCURATELY INDEED!!!.. THE FG 3 RED LABEL,NOT ONLY HAS PLASTIC NUT,SADDLE,AND PINS,ALONG WITH PLASTIC PIC GUARD... IVE BEEN SINGING AND SONGWRITING,MY OWN MUSIC,GUITAR AND PIANO, AMONGST OTHER STRINGS I CAN ALSO PLAY.. FG-3 BEING THE UNDERDOG SO TO SPEAK, SOUNDS JUST AS GREAT!! NOW,PERHAPS,YOULL HAVE MORE TO BUY YOUR OWN TUSK NUT,SADDLE,PINS ALTOGETHER FOR LESS A PRICE STILL ALL TOGETHER.. ANYBODY CAN STILL FIND A HARDSHELL CASE NO RUSH.. AND ALL TOGETHER, YOU WILL A BETTER SOUNDING GUITAR, WITH THE EXTRA WHIP CREAM ON TOP,WITH YOUR OWN CUSTOM TUSK PINS,NUT AND TUSK SADDLE... NOW YOU UNDERSTAND,THAT THE FG-3 WILL BE BETTER OF THE TWO,ALTOGETHER THE FG-3,WITH ALL THE CUSTOM EXTRAS,AND A HARDCASE... IT WILL SOUND BETTER I JUST KNOW..MORE PREMIUM PARTS,AND STILL COME OUT MORE AFFORDABLE,AND WITH NO DOUBT IN MY EARS,IN MY MIND, KNOWLEDGE IS POWER... BUT THE IGNORANT, UNLEARNED KNOWLEDGEABLE PEOPLE OUT THERE WOULD BE OBLIVIOUS TO SUCH... NOW YOUVE HEARD IT... CHINA,JOB WELL DONE...
Joseph Benjamin Agree with you, I own a Chinese Guild and they were made from magic. And I have played a few other Chinese guitar and they are equally impressive. I have tried Yamaha FG3 in store and they are incredible. But for guitar they were made in Japan is much less noticeable, they might be good at cars, electronics or others, but not very much in making guitar. I would go for FG3 at this time.
I do not think it's their hands in many cases it is machines with as little hand time as possible more mass production techniques and less custom shop handbuiltbtypewith exceptions of course.
For a budget good guitar the 3 is the way to go. But the 5 has superior tone, more booty, more balanced. Because of the ebony pimd and bone bridge and nut... ??? I thinks it has to do more of the quality craftmanship from the japanese factory. FG5 is a homerun... the FG3 is a double.
Just bought the FG3 since I'm not more than a hobby player and can't defend using that much money that could be used on my family. I'm changing the nut and saddle to tusq, but frankly speaking very satisfied with the plastic urea parts. Luckily I'm not comparing guitars when I play and therefore not noticing any default or less quality with my 3. It's all about loving the guitar and make it yours.
@@ritz5606 how does it sound with the and did you change the pins?I bought one too. I think the initial set up bone nut saddle ebony pins and perhaps human touch testing and making sure nothing goes out the factory not perfect are the main difference. Having said that you may find more minute imperfections when it's all handmade. For me my setup was not the best . Tone was superb but there was fret noise and action too high and neck not set up correctly saddle needed to be trim. All compromised playability. A simple pro setup and I have nothing but compliments. I plan to upgrade the saddle and nut to bone or tide and bridge pond to ebony or bone. I may also add a brass bridge plate to protect the bridge as I will be keeping this a lifetime. I may also get a hard case. My next guitar will be a cutaway all solo spruce and rosewood. Not sure which one.
The nut. Saddle and pins do play a significant part. I had a luthier switch out the urea nut and saddle on my FS TA for bone and it made quite a difference.
Really ?? Go try out an E10 and / or E20 ..... D, or S , or whatever. Tell us about how the Chinese builds are inferior. Craftsmanship ? What would you know ?
thinking that the FG5 is greater becouse it sound "slightly better" is stupid.. it doesnt justify the 700 bucks more, what justify the price is that you are going to get an instrument that will long forever. Thats my honest opinion.
They sounds identical, there is no justification in the price difference if sound is the deciding factor,, I find people convince their selves something is better when they know the difference in cost.
Actually in order to tell the difference you have to try them live, there is no way of telling the difference just watching a RUclips video. RUclips is good enough is you compare Rosewood Vs. Mahogany, that sort of stuff, but tell the subtle nuances of sound apart, no way. Limitation of digital sound reproduction
Peter DeBoer depends on what type of tone you are looking for Peter .. these are shorter scale and braced differently more towards a played in vintage tone . The ll16 is more modern tone plus its back and sides are Indian rosewood
I got the FG3. Put on a bone saddle and buffalo horn pins. Sounds like a FG5.
They sound very similar to each other. I purchased a 3 and plan to replace the saddle and pins with bone and ebony.
well done and congrats
It works!
I have the fg 3, can't imagine the 5 been any better I've owned nippon gakki and tiawan 180s from the 70s as well and there is no difference but if money was no object and I hadn't played my fg3 I would go for the Japanese just because nice review
I give the FG5 a slight more snappy and fuller tone than the FG3, but again, change the bridge and nut with bone or tusq, and you just might make the competition between the two even closer.
Already bought a FSX 5, it turns out the best decision I’ve made
Yanzhong Huang perfect .. thats very good
Please play exactly the same things on both to compare.
Great video however
If you’re going to compare you need to play exactly the same thing for both not flat pick and strum one and beautifully fingerpick the other
Using a capo as well
Thank you for the video. Could you please compare Yamaha FGX5 and Yamaha AC5R
Both are awesome, slight edge to the 5 series, warmer, smoother richer tone, and the wood pick guard, higher quality nut and saddle standard, higher quality case, and japanese workmanship, are definitely worth the $400 extra it cost in my area, but I would also take the FG3 in a heartbeat, and upgrade those components down the line, if money is an issue.
The Value you get with both of these is absolutely incredible, they are genuinely as good as many $2500 and up USA Big name guitars.
So FG5 for me🎼🎶🎵🏆🥇🎻🎸🎧🧐🙂🙃🙂🧐😻
Tigerex966 very true
you can get brighter strings.. for recording you want it less bright anyway. for live through a PA you can dial in more or less highs... If you were use this for bar gigs go with the cheaper one.. and dont stress about a little scratch or someone wanting to play it.. or it getting stolen.. then take the rest of the cash you saved and get a great acoustic amp or acoustic multieffects.. People get so hung up on these comparisons and labels etc.. get the one you like best.. but its not always gonna be the expensive toy that makes you happy.
I think that the FS3 sounds better. The heavier pickgard and saddle of the FS5 make it less vibrant, which is particulary true for the high frequencies, thus the FS3 sounds higher, but also much more responsive.
wow
Better projection for FG5. More thump, clarity and resonance. Overall louder as well
probably because of the bone saddle and nut and ebony bridge pins, versus plastic, and hand set vs automatic machine, and slighter better wood possibly, or at least the first pick go to Japan.
FG5 sounded very clean.
FG3 a bit muddy when strumming.
I'm sure the 3 would be very close to the 5 if the saddle pins and nut were upgraded. The 3 sounded pretty good to me though to be fair. I think I'd be happy with the 3.
The way you have the sections named is confusing. Since you switch guitars during the FG3 section, then again for the FG5 section.
Love your playing Jarvis! Can you tell me what your last song was? Was hoping to learn it.
The three seems boomier, and the five more compressed. I say, for live jamming, the three is awesome. For recording, you would be wise to spend the extra cash on the five.
sure 5 is always better
FG5 has a punchier bass and more subtle mids and highs. FG3 is good as well with its evenly louder projection, especially for the highs. As for value, buy what you can afford. Both are good guitars.
WOW ! Yamaha /Japan wins again ! I'd pony up the extra $$ & go for Japan made. Having said that..... the FG5 sounds better than some Taylors ( IMO )
Do you have an FG-300 red label Nippon Ghikki to compare these to? Mine sounds awesome.
Both lovely, the 5 has a bit more depth or growl and I want one but would be very happy with the 3.
Really nice fingerstyle tune towards the end, just beautiful.
Don't get me wrong , Taylor makes wonderful guitars , however, the Taylors I really like are way out of my price range and the ones that aren't .........well........ I'd have to look to another brand for the "warm sound" I prefer.
You added a few new chords in the beginning of let it go? Sounds good...
What a great review. I've read in the specs that the 3 has a 1.73 nut width and the 5 has a 1.75 nut width. Is that right? I thought the layout on both guitars were identical other than the small various additions. Thanks!
The are both @ 1.75.
Great play and demo. In this case I prefer FS-3 tone apparently. I already have a great guitar which backsides are made by rosewood. I wanna try it but sold out due to corona.
Thanks for that. Was gonna buy a used fgx3 for a good price but I will keep my money and put it towards a fgx5 ...
The 5 sounds warmer, deeper and shall we say more Martin like than the 3 to my ears anyway
Great comparison and playing. The only thing you could have added was to comment on how similar the neck feels and if there was any difference.
it was the same
I really like my fgx3. I ordered an fgx5 too and it’s neck was cracked on arrival. They aren’t packed too well and the fgx5 case does not have a neck guide near the headstock so it moves and is easy to crack. It still worked though so I checked the tone. I liked it. It’s a bit different but I couldn’t say it is better. The fgx3 tone is that good.
They sound exactly the same. I’ve played the FG3 and it is gorgeous sounding. Like the sound as much as D18 that I also played. Going to buy the FG3. It’s a 3000 dollar plus sounding and quality guitar for under 1000👍😃🔥
very true
Beautiful playing around 11:30 onward; I really like that song. Nicely done, Jarvis.
Here’s how to play it .. broken down for you in steps ruclips.net/video/eyebYVBCV_M/видео.html
What polish would you recommend for the Yamaha FSX5 guitar finish?🧐😻,and do you have any recommendations on keeping your guitar coronavirus free.🧐🙀?
Tigerex966 the Gibson orange colour polish is what I like
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore thanks
They sound SO similar, however he Japanese made one, with the Bone but and saddle sounds a little better ( bone for tone)and Sustain 😊
Having played both back to back, the FG5 is definitely better. However, its $500 US dollars more too.
Hi Jarvis, These guitar companies should be paying you for the excellent reviews you do. 👏🏻👍🏻
I wish! too
Jarvis you've done it again aha. How good are those red labels. I've just seen the d18 v red label brilliant. What's the rosewood yamaha alternative to compare to these? I'd love to pair the 2 Yamahas but I can't see a rosewood version. I love not just the tone but look of these. They really look great in that colour. But the price is amazing and I know what the neck profile is like if it is the same as the ll26 are that I had. That was a great guitar but unfortunately I sold it as the high e and b string was too bright for me. I should've change the nut and it may have changed that however I didnt know at the time. Bah hey ho
Eddie Fittes great and I love them
Is there a rosewood version or a nearer version to it?
Thanks for your reply. I think I may have to try one.
@@thefisherman2837 Take a look at the Ll16 Rosewood back n sides. Absolute beast 💪
Great job Jarvis.. Have you played or demo'd a Recording King RD-T16 torrified Sitka top, mahogany back and sides?
Nice comparisons. Thanks
Hi Jarvis. Is the body dimensions the same as a typical martin dreadnought? Seems a little smaller or scooped in the waist/curvier, if that makes sense.
Jason Peters almost same as a martin in dimensions but the curves are more pronounce that gives you a nice look
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore thanks heaps.
I can’t really find any difference that a little time and effort could reduce even more (changing to bone/tusq nuts and ebony/tusq saddle pins)... imo the fg(x)5 is a collectible and the fg(x)3 is a player! One is a piece of art the other is a work horse! That’s it! Just purchased an ac3m btw for the same reasons... not much between the 3 and 5 series ;)
I was waiting for the end of the video to have jarvis’ impressions/feedback on both but it cut suddenly :/
Listings for the FG3 on various sites say it is made in Japan. Did this change since March 2020? (Nevermind: It looks like SamAsh and a bunch of other dealers have it listed wrong. Yamaha's own site only shows made in Japan for the 5-series, like you said.)
Many FG3 all
That I worked the label said it’s made in china
I read that the 5 has solid back and sides and the 3, laminated. True?
Not true! They're both solid mahogany back/side. You're mostly paying the premium for made in Japan vs China.
yep, thats what i read too.
yo man they sound exactly the same to me haha
Honest opinion, what would you recommend between FG5 or the LL6? , I have my eyes on one of these, unfortunately they're only available online, meaning I cant try them and decide but I am willing to pull the trigger and buy one
Take the fg5 as it’s a better guitar
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore Thanks man
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore How about vs the LL16?
@@patryk2700 LL16 is more modern tone and brighter....the red series has a middle ground vintage tone
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
The one made in a Japan has a clearer more articulate sound
FG5 is slightly better, but i go for FG3 bcoz of my tight budget and I'll tke cre of the nut/saddle and pins...
Great choice
4 years ago there was a $200 difference but today it’s $579 difference. Can buy a FG3 and an Eastman E1D, in the U.S.A.
Should do a blind test.
Shaozheng Wang just close your eyes when you listen and it’s a blind test
What kind of pick do you use Jarvis??
Mcpherson pick yellow colour
Jarvis would u pick ac3r vs fs3?
FS3 would be better
According to my ear buds,, The fG3 sounds a bit sharper , with less warmth ,, the FG5 has softer highs , but much warmer tone.. Both guitars seem to have pretty good bottom end 🤷♂️ I’d say it’s worth spending the extra cash and to for the FG5 👌
Jarvis you rock brother. The 5 series sounds better.
Ernie Young yes
Crispy open fg3, like a rehabbeb taylor
wow, quite big diference for FG5...better middles and in summary better balance.
I would still be interested in the difference between FS3 and FG3...
you sure it's not the slight difference in mic placement between the two?
fg3 is made in japan?
What is the size of truss rod for fg3 4mm or 5mm wrench? Thank you
4mm
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore thank you
Which one is better for you in terms in bass yamaha fg3 or the taylor 110ce?
@@shutterKeebs1127 yamaha has more bass
Hi Jarvis, sound wise, is the fg3 worth upgrading or just go straight with fg5? Thanks
I honestly find the Built quality the same and tone is similar too .. that’s why I’m puzzled why would you pay more for the FG5
Hard case...on the 5...some review channels ..Alamo... more care has been taken..but not much difference...
4:06 6:18 10:33 11:15
5:13 7:57 13:48 14:44
I thought you were going to share what the differences if any there are between the two? What is the difference in tone and build quality in the two?
I did
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore Please show me where. I waited until the end of the video but it was cut off. What is the difference between the two?
@@elsizzle2000 suggest you watch the individual videos of each model on my channel .. the 3 is made in China and 5 is in Japan .. 3 plastic saddle and nut , 5 is bone .. 3 is plastic pickguard , 5 is wooden pickguard .. 3 is gig bag .. 5 is hard case...
@@elsizzle2000 the saddle slot on the 3 is thinner while the 5 has a thicker saddle slot for a thicker saddle
@@TheGuitarSpaSingapore I understand that. I should clarify - which one sounds better? It says in your title which one sounds better. Unfortunately no stores near me have these models so I can't compare the tone/ sound.
How about fg3 vs fs3?
tb chew Im waiting for someone to send in a FS3
The reality is that China's ability to mass produce premium guitars is second to none at this point. I still see a lot of reviewers belittle Chinese-made guitars (e.g., they'll go bonkers praising a Martin or Guild or whatever and when the Chinese/Asian premium guitar is reviewed they'll say wonderful, wonderful quality and sound but nothing to really distinguish itself, something like that). At this stage if I were buying a premium guitar the only reason I would get a Martin would be that it holds its value and that there is always a market in the US of people wanting to buy it used. If you buy an expensive Yamaha or Eastman, even if you save 20-40% upfront, it will be harder selling it down the road. If you are just looking for a great sounding instrument and plan to keep it forever, I really see no objective performance difference between a US icon like a Martin versus a top of the line Yamaha or Takamine regardless of where its made. You'll save 30-40% by going with the non-US brand but the resale value will be lower as well.
Invest the difference and you will come out ahead with the Asian brand
FG5 sounds more open, warm and bell-like. FG3 sounds more congested, nasal and brassy than the FG3.
If you want the best deal, FG3. If you want the best sound, FG5.
i was really wondering what was the difference between the two fg’s exept one was made in japan and the other one was made in china. Almost $700 dollars(american) difference between the two. maybe a little more better sound, and a better construction, is worth $700👍🏽 although the fg3 is not that bad to, maybe it will really depend on the player on how much does he really wanna spend, both are great guitars, i expected a lot with this series especially the fg5 and for me and my ears, the fg5 really sounds great🤘🏽
What area of the US do you live in, the difference is only $400 (relatively speaking) in the midwest area.
Tigerex966 i live in the philippines
@@edmundmercado21 oh ok😊
FG 3 certainly sounds very good, BUT... when FG 5 plays, it’s as if God is singing. She FG 5 is great! Thanks for the test!
Jarvis did this video end abruptly by mistake?
I change some settings and i guess the file was too huge and You Tube just auto cut it at around 17mins for my 3 videos and this is one of them. I have since change back the setting. I wanted a better audio and visual quality ...but i was wrong
Well China of the last few yrs have been building in their factories multiple brands of top of the line models..GUILD,FENDER, YAMAHAS OF MANY KINDS OF MODELS,MARTIN,TAYLOR,ALONG WITH THEIR OWN SPECIAL MODELS OF THEIR OWN BRAND NAMES..
JAPAN,HAS NOT BEEN PRODUCING THE AMOUNTS,OF THE PLETHORA OF ALL MODELS THE CHINESE ARE EVER ABUNDANTLY PRODUCING...
THE QUALITY OF THEIR ABILITIES HAVE SKYROCKETED,TO GREATER LEVELS AND NUMBERS OF MAJOR BRANDS WHOM USE CHINA MOST FREQUENTLY OF ANYONE ELSE..
COMMON SENSE IS,JAPAN GETS COMPLACENT,AND TO RELAXED,HENCE,
KNOWING CERTAIN VINTAGE MODELS OF THE MANY SORTS...YOU WONT THAT MANY OTHER JAPANESE MADE GUITARS THESE DAYS,COST OF LABOR ETC...
THUS,WHEN THINK OF THE INSURMOUNTABLE QUALITIES THE CHINESE HAVE EMBRACED AND PRACTICED BUILDING A HORRENDOUS VARIETY OG GUITARS FAR EXCEEDING ANYONE ELSE IN THE WORLD...LET ALONE GENERICS AND ORIGINAL BRANDS OF EVERY MODEL IMAGINABLE,THROUGHOUT THE DECADES...
HENCE,
I CONSIDER THE COMMON SENSE,AND LOGIC IS,
CHINA,HAS HAD MORE HANDS PRACTICE WITH MOST ALL THE MODELS OF GUITARS AROUND THE WORLD.
IN CONCLUSION,THEIR HANDS ON EXPERIENCED HAS BEEN EVER PROFECTED, LEARNED KNOWLEDGE ON EVERY PRECISE AND EFFICIENT WAYS OF BUILDING DIFFERENT IDEAS...QUICKLY,AND ACCURATELY INDEED!!!..
THE FG 3 RED LABEL,NOT ONLY HAS PLASTIC NUT,SADDLE,AND PINS,ALONG WITH PLASTIC PIC GUARD...
IVE BEEN SINGING AND SONGWRITING,MY OWN MUSIC,GUITAR AND PIANO, AMONGST OTHER STRINGS I CAN ALSO PLAY..
FG-3 BEING THE UNDERDOG SO TO SPEAK,
SOUNDS JUST AS GREAT!!
NOW,PERHAPS,YOULL HAVE MORE TO BUY YOUR OWN TUSK NUT,SADDLE,PINS ALTOGETHER FOR LESS A PRICE STILL ALL TOGETHER..
ANYBODY CAN STILL FIND A HARDSHELL CASE NO RUSH..
AND ALL TOGETHER,
YOU WILL A BETTER SOUNDING GUITAR,
WITH THE EXTRA WHIP CREAM ON TOP,WITH YOUR OWN CUSTOM TUSK PINS,NUT AND TUSK SADDLE...
NOW YOU UNDERSTAND,THAT THE FG-3 WILL BE BETTER OF THE TWO,ALTOGETHER THE FG-3,WITH ALL THE CUSTOM EXTRAS,AND A HARDCASE...
IT WILL SOUND BETTER I JUST KNOW..MORE PREMIUM PARTS,AND STILL COME OUT MORE AFFORDABLE,AND WITH NO DOUBT IN MY EARS,IN MY MIND, KNOWLEDGE IS POWER...
BUT THE IGNORANT, UNLEARNED KNOWLEDGEABLE PEOPLE OUT THERE WOULD BE OBLIVIOUS TO SUCH...
NOW YOUVE HEARD IT...
CHINA,JOB WELL DONE...
Joseph Benjamin Agree with you, I own a Chinese Guild and they were made from magic. And I have played a few other Chinese guitar and they are equally impressive. I have tried Yamaha FG3 in store and they are incredible. But for guitar they were made in Japan is much less noticeable, they might be good at cars, electronics or others, but not very much in making guitar. I would go for FG3 at this time.
I do not think it's their hands in many cases it is machines with as little hand time as possible more mass production techniques and less custom shop handbuiltbtypewith exceptions of course.
Japanese have been the masters of wood manipulation for THOUSANDS of years.
For a budget good guitar the 3 is the way to go. But the 5 has superior tone, more booty, more balanced. Because of the ebony pimd and bone bridge and nut... ??? I thinks it has to do more of the quality craftmanship from the japanese factory. FG5 is a homerun... the FG3 is a double.
Just bought the FG3 since I'm not more than a hobby player and can't defend using that much money that could be used on my family. I'm changing the nut and saddle to tusq, but frankly speaking very satisfied with the plastic urea parts. Luckily I'm not comparing guitars when I play and therefore not noticing any default or less quality with my 3. It's all about loving the guitar and make it yours.
@@ritz5606 how does it sound with the and did you change the pins?I bought one too.
I think the initial set up bone nut saddle ebony pins and perhaps human touch testing and making sure nothing goes out the factory not perfect are the main difference.
Having said that you may find more minute imperfections when it's all handmade.
For me my setup was not the best .
Tone was superb but there was fret noise and action too high and neck not set up correctly saddle needed to be trim.
All compromised playability.
A simple pro setup and I have nothing but compliments.
I plan to upgrade the saddle and nut to bone or tide and bridge pond to ebony or bone.
I may also add a brass bridge plate to protect the bridge as I will be keeping this a lifetime.
I may also get a hard case.
My next guitar will be a cutaway all solo spruce and rosewood.
Not sure which one.
The nut. Saddle and pins do play a significant part. I had a luthier switch out the urea nut and saddle on my FS TA for bone and it made quite a difference.
Really ?? Go try out an E10 and / or E20 ..... D, or S , or whatever. Tell us about how the Chinese builds are inferior. Craftsmanship ? What would you know ?
you should play something people know
rob fontall I will have copyright issues due to the You Tube laws dude
thinking that the FG5 is greater becouse it sound "slightly better" is stupid.. it doesnt justify the 700 bucks more, what justify the price is that you are going to get an instrument that will long forever. Thats my honest opinion.
They sounds identical, there is no justification in the price difference if sound is the deciding factor,, I find people convince their selves something is better when they know the difference in cost.
I absolutely agree with this. 👍
I would love to see how the commenters saying the FG5 sounds clearly better do in a blind test :)
Actually in order to tell the difference you have to try them live, there is no way of telling the difference just watching a RUclips video. RUclips is good enough is you compare Rosewood Vs. Mahogany, that sort of stuff, but tell the subtle nuances of sound apart, no way. Limitation of digital sound reproduction
FG5 sounds better
Carl Wilson well you can hear it ..which part sounds better to you
Fg3
Those necks a bent bad, very nad quality control
no difference except labour difference CHinese labour is cheaper.
They don't sound better than an ll 16
Peter DeBoer depends on what type of tone you are looking for Peter .. these are shorter scale and braced differently more towards a played in vintage tone . The ll16 is more modern tone plus its back and sides are Indian rosewood
Yes I sold my ll16 in favor of the 3 here. The shorter scale is better for my old fingers, and these sound fantastic too.
Playing too hard…
@@cwilkerson3710 yeah !!!
@@cwilkerson3710 too excited that’s why it’s hard …
fg3 1/2 price of fg5, you figure out!!
Fg3