@@dlmyrs if it’s stiffer than wood, which it should be, then that would make sense. A higher stiffness will give you higher natural frequencies and lower dampening (or more resonance).
@@rskirk22 I was just taking the piss. From real aircraft with CF it’s always cross weave for strength. Although I reckon you can still multilayer along a grain.
If I hadn't watched Phil before I'd have thought this was a commercial. Wild to see him absolutely fanboy over a product. Happy for him. Hope to find a guitar that makes me feel that way.
A few years back, I bought two x20s-one for my son and one for me. They both arrived from Ireland perfectly in tune and are still ready to play every time it is picked up.Both electronically and acoustically, they perform and sound amazing. What awesome guitars these are!
@@BaronVonSchnarffler I would agree the price point really doesn't add up to me. If I were doing regular gigs and needed a workhorse acoustic makes sense but for the average plunker not so much
I have one and I'd say the price point is about right. My X7 has made me sell my all my other 'high end' acoustics. Sound wise it's of course subjective but once you play one, the comfort makes everything else feel clunky. Wonderful guitars
@@BaronVonSchnarffler Where do you get $4000? The basic all carbon in black or coloured will be about $2000. Add more if you want fancy bridges, alternate scale lengths and widths with a wood veneer top. Try pricing up any custom shop guitar that gives you all the options offered by Emerald. You'll probably be looking at twice the price of the Emerald.
I own an X30 and love it! Awesome customer service too. One of my Ghost bridge saddles snapped in two, and they quickly sent a replacement across the pond.
Awesome seeing Phil with an Emerald. I have 2 & love them both. My CSP topped X20 with it's HyVibe is the most comfortable, tuning stable acoustic guitar I've ever held. & my Virtuo has so many tone combos, my PRS 24-08 blushes & hides in it's gearbag.
OK just wow....I have been looking at getting a Ovation Adamas......I think that may have just changed! Just Wow! I grew up around Ovations from my brother well those and Taylor were his choice for acoustics outside of his dabbling with Takemine in the late 90's. Phil thanks for shining a little light on these guitars!
What I've found is the Emerald's special ergonomics make them more comfortable to hold - no more fighting the slouch from the rounded back. They're also lighter & are more tuning stable than an O.
I own one (X20), and a McPherson Sable. I take the Emerald to the tropics and pretty much everywhere I travel, hot, cold, no problem. Don’t need to get anything fancy as their standard is beautiful and it plays great. Super sturdy case too for when I take it on a jet. Yes, wow! My home is not great for wood acoustics, although I own many, and I just leave my carbon fiber out on the couch so it’s right there to grab. All my wood guitars reside in their cases along with some humid pacs. Not trying to brag, but the carbon fiber Emerald is fn awesome, the Sable as well. Doesn’t sound as good as the Martin or Guild but dudes, it is nice ,no great, to have without the worry of what the wood guitars would go through in various climates. Piece of advice, get a pickup installed from the factory. Cheers!
Was gassing after the 12 String after seeing KDH's factory tour. Definitely will get one for the collection. Would definitely put either the HiVibe or LR Baggs Anthem instead of the passive system.
For newcomers to Know Your Gear, Phil almost never glows this much over a guitar. When I saw him holding back a smile I knew this guitar has to be legit.
Just very impressive. I still have my '79 Ovation custom Balladeer which l love although it does have that distinctive Ovation sound. Back in the '80's it was the only game in town for acoustics with electrics and did a good job. The sound of the Emerald although subtler still reminded me of the Ovation. Great lookin instrument and looks like it's beautifully concieved and constructed. I'll be interested to see how it takes off with pro guitarists.
Sounds about the the best I've heard a CF acoustic sound... it is definitely very beautiful. I hope you are going to keep it so you can do a one year update and maybe a stress test taking it outdoors or on a cross country trip ....
I've owned an Emerald T20, X20, and X30. They are all fantastic instruments with their own character. My next purchase will be an X10. Thanks for making this video. The more people that find out about Emerald Guitars, the better!
About 25 years ago I visited Composite Acoustics in Lafayette Louisiana. Fantastic instruments but what blew my mind is when the rep pulled a guitar off of the wall and laid it on the floor, beat it with a hammer then handed it to me. Not a scratch, dent, ding, and it was still in tune!
Thank you for posting this video. Bought a custom X20 leftie back in 2017 and it’s been great for traveling between the desert and tropical areas. Just got a Fender Tone master pro but I need to get it together and plugged in. Looking forward to your G&L build that Dave is doing for you. Really like the ASAT and might add one to my stable. Dark blue and blacked out as much as possible with Indian rosewood. Weird that I was born like 15 miles away from where their plant is but left the area in 1964. I remember dad saying he worked in Fullerton on jobs. Duncan, AZ boy who moved to SoCal after his military time. TMI. THANKS!
I have an X10 I leave at our cottage in N. Ontario. Even over winter in an unheated cottage it's still in tune when I come back in Spring. It's insane.
I've had an X20 for a few years now. I got the HighVibe system which for playing around the house eliminates the need to plug in to punch up the sound. I did discover that if you use the HighVibe the system the (my?) X20 does not perform reliably with coated strings and my personal preference is for phosphor bronze strings whereas on all my wood acoustics I can't stand the phosphor bronze sound. I also strung it up with baritone 16-70s for about 6 months no adjustments at all and it worked perfectly as a baritone (with a bit of buzz on the fat E string that probably could have been shimmed out at the bridge saddle, and I needed pliers to drag the fat E string through the machine peg hole as it barely (arguably didn't) fit. The one issue I encountered was that some screws on the machine heads and on the HighVibe unit mounting plate don't snug well and when changing strings there is very distinct play in the machine heads where they are fastened to the neck, after a few dozen more string changes I may have to poly fill the holes and or replace the screws. All comments on sound comparison vs same price point in traditional guitars are undeniable but the sound is no slouch and the comfort factor holding and playing it is special. I chose green without a veneer as a shout out to it's origin and a tribute to it's construction. The team at Emerald were attentive, prompt and a delight to deal with too.
Bought my first Emerald over a year ago now and now have 3: Virtuo, X20, and X20 Baritone. Love these guitars. I'm sure being in the harsh environment of Arizona that this guitar will be perfect for you.
Gorgeous guitar and I think with the veneer tops and the advantages of the carbon fiber it might sway some traditionalists. Of course it won't replace a traditional acoustic but is definitely a step in the direction of more usable.
It replaced all my traditional acoustics. After getting my X20 I sold all my wood acoustics (including a very nice Martin OM28v). Now own an X10 and X30 too.
I've had my eyes and ears on Emerald Guitars for a while now. They may well be the best sounding of the Composite/Carbon Fiber Acoustic Guitars. The Maximum Body Depth of the X10 is 4.75 inches, the same as my Lowden, which I find uncomfortably deep - It puts my right picking arm into an awkward position. I'm taller than average, including a Classical background, etc., so I know about ergonomic positions. Do the "comfort cuts" on the X10 make the guitar feel less deep? I also see that the Model X7 is 3.75 inches deep. Thanks
I have an X20 and an X10 Slimline electric- the ergonomic shaping of the guitar makes it feel much slimmer than it is - more like handling a Martin 000 size.
I just love the looks of that, and I really like the tones also. They are a bit different, but a good different IMO. Emerald guitars let a friend, Sean Daniels who also has a YT channel, design one and pick it up on a trip to Ireland. He did an acoustic/electric w/2 humbuckers and a green tint carbon fiber w/gold hardware. That guitar is stunning, and sounds amazing! I'd love to have a 00 size w/shorter 24 inch-ish scale, if they would make that? I also like a thicker neck. I haven't even played a carbon fiber yet, but very much looking forward to it. I love the high quality of Emerald!! Great review!! Thanks, --gary
I find the tone of carbon fiber to have a ring that I do not find pleasant. It isn't awful but really not sure I would enjoy it as a solo instrument. It would cut through a mix just fine and I am sure plays amazing but for the $5k it just isn't something I could see buying
I've owned a couple Journey Instruments carbon fiber guitars, and they were both really good. I owned one of the Enya carbon fiber guitars, and it was just okay. I've played a bunch of KLOS carbon fiber guitars, and never found one that I was inclined to put my money down. On somewhat of a lark, I bought a used 2021 Emerald X7 (parlor/travel size) from GC and had it shipped to my local store. I only buy used kit from GC and my thought was if I don't like it, their returns are quick and easy. I love it. Amazing build quality, sounds great, plays great, and a definite keeper. It's been my EDC guitar ever since. Emerald truly does set the bar on carbon fiber instruments, and their almost endless configuration options are second to none.
Very unique and nice looking guitar. The acoustic tone seems a little muffled in the upper midrange... to my ears. I guess the pickup & amp could fill that, if wanted?
Sounds and looks amazing, love your channel - you always have so much information and enthusiasm, and no ego - "If you can shred on this . . . " This is the first acoustic other than my Martin and the newer Taylor 914CE models I've really liked the look and tone of, until you plugged it in - I wonder if they have an option other than a piezo. Acoutstic guitars are so hard to amplify, but I'd rather have a multi-source pickup system like an LR Baggs Anthem. Definitely will be checking them out though!
I’d love to see a head to head to head between three similar bidirectional carbon fiber guitar designs from KLOS, Emerald, and McPherson. Personally, I think KLOS gets you best bang for the buck as far as giving the best quality CF and features for bidirectional for up to half the cost of the other two brands. They offer lots of customization options - not quite full custom shop, but close to it. Would love to see you compare guitars from all three to see what you get or don’t get from each of these three brands making bidirectional CF guitars.
Definitely agree that it sounds better plugged in than not. I wonder if the location of the sound hole has anything to do with that? Beautiful craftsmanship.
The Virtuo can scratch that itch pretty easy... The acoustic sound from it is "lighter" than your X20 & gives it the HollowBody electric feel. There's no lack of Rock growl from the Fishman Fluence pick-ups, then there's the ones under the saddles for those who are MIDI inclined Coupled with all the toggles & push-pulls, there's just sooo many tone combos!!!
I know KDH isn't everyone's cup of tea but he did an excellent tour of their manufacturing facility which is well worth a look. They make amazing guitars.
I think this would make a great travel guitar. Quality built, it sounds big and has reasonably good acoustic tone. Barring a change of strings or being plugged-in, the tone will always stay the same. It can't open up with age or playing as a woody does. Depending on the usage, that can be a plus.
I have an X30 (their big jumbo). It's a gorgeous guitar and sounds great. I wanted it because I live in crazy Florida weather, and like you, barely even have to tune it. The only thing that I don't like is the pinless bridge. The guitar is a complete pain in the butt to string. Also, since there are no pins, I find myself sometimes unintentionally muting the strings.
I purchased an X 10 a couple years ago. The main reason I picked it up was because I live in Tucson Arizona , a very dry climate. I travel on a regular basis to Hawaii, which is a higher humidity climate. These guitars are easy to travel with , always stay in tune and you don’t have to worry about them being damaged on a flight .This week I received my second Emerald Guitar, the X 20, which is the full body acoustic . Yes they don’t sound like a Taylor but I would never take my Taylor to the beach. Mahalo
I appreciate the review. It’s a looker for sure and the fact that it’s indestructible, as far as humidity is concerned is really impressive but not for me right now. Maybe someday?
I imagine the CF top of this guitar will never suffer typical long term effects of wood? Like bulging at the saddle and caving in at the neck heel? It sounds great - little different but great.
Phil.....I've been begging you for YEARS to try one of these.....so glad you finally did and so glad you love it. Quite frankly, and this is going to sound like hyperbole, they are perfect. I have two Emeralds (an X20 12 string with a Ziricote top, and an X30 with a flamed maple top). Make no mistake, these are NOT inexpensive options, but as you have discovered, the price for perfection. I've had my 12 string for many years now, and it plays the same as the day I got it. And Alistair is such a nice person and loves his customers.
Very cool. beautiful too; it looks to be really deep, but maybe it's just the way it looks on camera. This is the future, the materials are easier to work with, easier to standardize production, and like you said they're bulletproof. You don't have to worry about the rain forests or anything else. As electronics are added, the sound can be enhanced any way a processor is set to do it. Wood guitars will become specialty boutique items.
Great vid, great guitar. I love my Rainsong. Have you got any thoughts on the company out there that's making carbon fibre necks for Strats and Teles. 👍
Sounds lively enough. I like the offering of nut-width choice. Why do more guitar manufacturers not offer this? Be brave, go to 48 or even 50mm. I play a 52mm nut and love it.
I wish you had used a traditional acoustic in the Sound Demo as kind of a baseline to "calibrate" our ears to your recording setup. I KNOW it will sound different, but based on your recording setup, HOW does it sound different. If I don't like the sound of the carbon fiber guitar, is it because I don't like the sound of the guitar, or do I not like the sound you were able to capture with your recording rig. If the traditional acoustic is not to my liking either, then I know it's just the recording and I can make some mental compensation to what it would sound like when I play it.
These guitars are a Heirloom piece IMO. They will be passed down for generations and if you ever own one you will be amazed that they never come out of tune. I mean the only variable is the stings themselves. Incredible sound too
Phil, did you say "Acoustic Image" guitar? I've never heard of them. I've tried searching for "Acoustic Image Composite guitar" and "Acoustic Image Carbon Fiber guitar" and I can't find anything about them at all. Got a link or any hints on better search terms?
I've had my emerald x7 for 3 years now and it replaced all my other high end acoustic guitars. Unplugged it's good sounding but not as good as my martins we're. However, on stage it blows them all away and always steals the room when I play it. Most important though it's so damn playable. I capo up as high as the 10th fret quite regularly and not else on the market compares to the x7 for versatility
KDH did an awesome video tour of the factory with the CEO. I’m currently saving and waiting for them to do a full on electric (T-style, P90s, Bigsby please 😹).
I've owned 2, custom ordered. X20 and X30. Insane guitars. But you have to get used to the sound difference. Its just different. It will never sound like a taylor or Martin. It is its own thing. If you can afford an extra guitar, having one of these is great as Phil said. They are indestructible. The X30 has a massive sound. I ended up doing what stupid musicians do and sold both. I regret selling the X20. Now I'm looking for an indestructible good guitar in my collection that can travel. I had that. The X30 was just massive. From the first strum, I've never heard an acoustic put sound out like that. Too much for me but incredibly comfortable to play. X20 was perfect for normal acoustic size.
I think we R looking @ the future!! I agree it sounds better pluged in. But it sounds better than any budget acoustic out their. I want a Gibson Dove single cut Ebobony!!👍👍👍👍 Martin's, Guild's, Taylor's R Sweet! But the Dove has me!
Carbon fiber is very cool. I have had a Composite Acoustics (CA) for years with no problems. Too bad they went out of business after Peavey bought them out.
I'm more interested in this brand after watching this review!!! I prefer the sound of my D-28, but the temptation to own a guitar that doesn't need much TLC is almost too great for me to resist. Fun personal fact: I used to wish for more high-end sparkle from my guitars and strings until I had my hearing checked. Premium hearing aids have given me what I've been missing.
the perfect guitar for Asia. But can you play rock with effect on it? :) I bet Tommy Emmanuel has one, but I'd love to see Nuno Bettencort play one electric. What's to stop them from making solid bodies THAT STABLE?
I'm only 3 minutes in, but I'm curious how having the soundhole that close to the neck will come into play when micing it up. We'll see if he goes there.
What LR baggs pick up is that? I don't see one that looks like that one. I hate my pick up in my Taylor 114, it's so bad. Picks up the stratching of the strings more than the tone of the guitar.
But...but...but....what about the tonewoods??!?! ;P Look forward to see the inevitable blind ABX tone tests between things like this cutting edge acoustic versus traditional acoustics. I for one welcome both approaches. No reason at all to fight, except for those people who are simply belligerent bums. Love my Taylor. But I could for sure see myself loving something like this too. :)
Now we can start the tonecarbon debate! 😂
In all seriousness, this looks like a great guitar. Once again, you did a great review.
Cross layered CF sucks the tone out, but sustains longer!
@@dlmyrs if it’s stiffer than wood, which it should be, then that would make sense. A higher stiffness will give you higher natural frequencies and lower dampening (or more resonance).
The tighter weave definitely has more high end, it only makes sense.
You're not going to beat old growth coal coke carbon tailings refracted from my province's tar sands.😊
@@rskirk22 I was just taking the piss. From real aircraft with CF it’s always cross weave for strength. Although I reckon you can still multilayer along a grain.
If I hadn't watched Phil before I'd have thought this was a commercial. Wild to see him absolutely fanboy over a product. Happy for him. Hope to find a guitar that makes me feel that way.
A few years back, I bought two x20s-one for my son and one for me. They both arrived from Ireland perfectly in tune and are still ready to play every time it is picked up.Both electronically and acoustically, they perform and sound amazing. What awesome guitars these are!
My long lost father! I finally found you! Can I get in on that fancy guitar action, wealthy father?
Ha! Maybe not so wealthy any more!
Perfect for Northern Canada- no worries about low humidity cracking the wood!
Buy an Enya for 4,000$ or so less , way too much money for these , beautiful, sound nice, but not worth 5 K, buy an Enya
@@BaronVonSchnarffler I would agree the price point really doesn't add up to me. If I were doing regular gigs and needed a workhorse acoustic makes sense but for the average plunker not so much
I have one and I'd say the price point is about right. My X7 has made me sell my all my other 'high end' acoustics. Sound wise it's of course subjective but once you play one, the comfort makes everything else feel clunky. Wonderful guitars
Just remembered that people actually live up there. Brrrrr
@@BaronVonSchnarffler Where do you get $4000? The basic all carbon in black or coloured will be about $2000. Add more if you want fancy bridges, alternate scale lengths and widths with a wood veneer top. Try pricing up any custom shop guitar that gives you all the options offered by Emerald. You'll probably be looking at twice the price of the Emerald.
I played one of these a few months ago, it sounded WAY better than I thought it would.
Than you thought it wood? 👀😂
I own an X30 and love it! Awesome customer service too. One of my Ghost bridge saddles snapped in two, and they quickly sent a replacement across the pond.
The manufacturer must be so happy right now.
Awesome seeing Phil with an Emerald.
I have 2 & love them both.
My CSP topped X20 with it's HyVibe is the most comfortable, tuning stable acoustic guitar I've ever held.
& my Virtuo has so many tone combos, my PRS 24-08 blushes & hides in it's gearbag.
OK just wow....I have been looking at getting a Ovation Adamas......I think that may have just changed! Just Wow! I grew up around Ovations from my brother well those and Taylor were his choice for acoustics outside of his dabbling with Takemine in the late 90's. Phil thanks for shining a little light on these guitars!
What I've found is the Emerald's special ergonomics make them more comfortable to hold - no more fighting the slouch from the rounded back.
They're also lighter & are more tuning stable than an O.
I have an Adamas that I loved, but it has not been out of its case since I got my Emerald X20… 12 years ago! There's really just no comparison.
Amazing sound and looks!
Sounds great acoustically or plugged in. SWEET!
That's a Beautiful Guitar 🎸 Thanks for Sharing 🎸🎶🎶🎶
I own one (X20), and a McPherson Sable. I take the Emerald to the tropics and pretty much everywhere I travel, hot, cold, no problem. Don’t need to get anything fancy as their standard is beautiful and it plays great. Super sturdy case too for when I take it on a jet. Yes, wow!
My home is not great for wood acoustics, although I own many, and I just leave my carbon fiber out on the couch so it’s right there to grab. All my wood guitars reside in their cases along with some humid pacs. Not trying to brag, but the carbon fiber Emerald is fn awesome, the Sable as well.
Doesn’t sound as good as the Martin or Guild but dudes, it is nice ,no great, to have without the worry of what the wood guitars would go through in various climates. Piece of advice, get a pickup installed from the factory.
Cheers!
Phil, so glad you finally got one on the bench and doing a video on it! I own an X30 and an X7. Wonderful!
I tabbed out your beautiful guitar playing at 6:00 and 8:01 and clipped them as they are about 1 min each. Thanks, Phil. Melodic and precise. ❤
Looks and sounds amazing
Was gassing after the 12 String after seeing KDH's factory tour. Definitely will get one for the collection. Would definitely put either the HiVibe or LR Baggs Anthem instead of the passive system.
Very cool acoustic!
I own an older X20 and it's just amazing. These newer ones are even better.
For newcomers to Know Your Gear, Phil almost never glows this much over a guitar. When I saw him holding back a smile I knew this guitar has to be legit.
Yes!😂
Just very impressive. I still have my '79 Ovation custom Balladeer which l love although it does have that distinctive Ovation sound. Back in the '80's it was the only game in town for acoustics with electrics and did a good job. The sound of the Emerald although subtler still reminded me of the Ovation. Great lookin instrument and looks like it's beautifully concieved and constructed. I'll be interested to see how it takes off with pro guitarists.
Sounds about the the best I've heard a CF acoustic sound... it is definitely very beautiful. I hope you are going to keep it so you can do a one year update and maybe a stress test taking it outdoors or on a cross country trip ....
I've owned an Emerald T20, X20, and X30. They are all fantastic instruments with their own character. My next purchase will be an X10. Thanks for making this video. The more people that find out about Emerald Guitars, the better!
About 25 years ago I visited Composite Acoustics in Lafayette Louisiana. Fantastic instruments but what blew my mind is when the rep pulled a guitar off of the wall and laid it on the floor, beat it with a hammer then handed it to me. Not a scratch, dent, ding, and it was still in tune!
Thank you for posting this video. Bought a custom X20 leftie back in 2017 and it’s been great for traveling between the desert and tropical areas. Just got a Fender Tone master pro but I need to get it together and plugged in. Looking forward to your G&L build that Dave is doing for you. Really like the ASAT and might add one to my stable. Dark blue and blacked out as much as possible with Indian rosewood. Weird that I was born like 15 miles away from where their plant is but left the area in 1964. I remember dad saying he worked in Fullerton on jobs. Duncan, AZ boy who moved to SoCal after his military time. TMI. THANKS!
Especially at the cabin. (In Northern Canada)
I have an X10 I leave at our cottage in N. Ontario. Even over winter in an unheated cottage it's still in tune when I come back in Spring. It's insane.
I've had an X20 for a few years now. I got the HighVibe system which for playing around the house eliminates the need to plug in to punch up the sound. I did discover that if you use the HighVibe the system the (my?) X20 does not perform reliably with coated strings and my personal preference is for phosphor bronze strings whereas on all my wood acoustics I can't stand the phosphor bronze sound. I also strung it up with baritone 16-70s for about 6 months no adjustments at all and it worked perfectly as a baritone (with a bit of buzz on the fat E string that probably could have been shimmed out at the bridge saddle, and I needed pliers to drag the fat E string through the machine peg hole as it barely (arguably didn't) fit. The one issue I encountered was that some screws on the machine heads and on the HighVibe unit mounting plate don't snug well and when changing strings there is very distinct play in the machine heads where they are fastened to the neck, after a few dozen more string changes I may have to poly fill the holes and or replace the screws. All comments on sound comparison vs same price point in traditional guitars are undeniable but the sound is no slouch and the comfort factor holding and playing it is special. I chose green without a veneer as a shout out to it's origin and a tribute to it's construction. The team at Emerald were attentive, prompt and a delight to deal with too.
One of the best reviews that I’ve seen on the Emerald X-20. Thank you.
That carbon fiber looks amazing!
Bought my first Emerald over a year ago now and now have 3: Virtuo, X20, and X20 Baritone. Love these guitars. I'm sure being in the harsh environment of Arizona that this guitar will be perfect for you.
I am a subscriber to their website. I love their products.
Gorgeous guitar and I think with the veneer tops and the advantages of the carbon fiber it might sway some traditionalists. Of course it won't replace a traditional acoustic but is definitely a step in the direction of more usable.
It replaced all my traditional acoustics. After getting my X20 I sold all my wood acoustics (including a very nice Martin OM28v). Now own an X10 and X30 too.
sounds and looks gorgeous
Nice sounds
I've had my eyes and ears on Emerald Guitars for a while now. They may well be the best sounding of the Composite/Carbon Fiber Acoustic Guitars. The Maximum Body Depth of the X10 is 4.75 inches, the same as my Lowden, which I find uncomfortably deep - It puts my right picking arm into an awkward position. I'm taller than average, including a Classical background, etc., so I know about ergonomic positions. Do the "comfort cuts" on the X10 make the guitar feel less deep? I also see that the Model X7 is 3.75 inches deep. Thanks
I have an X20 and an X10 Slimline electric- the ergonomic shaping of the guitar makes it feel much slimmer than it is - more like handling a Martin 000 size.
@@tokairic3925 Good to know. Thanks for the info. Are they everything they are advertised to be, and inspiring to play?
I just love the looks of that, and I really like the tones also. They are a bit different, but a good different IMO. Emerald guitars let a friend, Sean Daniels who also has a YT channel, design one and pick it up on a trip to Ireland. He did an acoustic/electric w/2 humbuckers and a green tint carbon fiber w/gold hardware. That guitar is stunning, and sounds amazing! I'd love to have a 00 size w/shorter 24 inch-ish scale, if they would make that? I also like a thicker neck. I haven't even played a carbon fiber yet, but very much looking forward to it. I love the high quality of Emerald!! Great review!! Thanks, --gary
I find the tone of carbon fiber to have a ring that I do not find pleasant. It isn't awful but really not sure I would enjoy it as a solo instrument. It would cut through a mix just fine and I am sure plays amazing but for the $5k it just isn't something I could see buying
The x7 is a 24” scale “parlor” size guitar… check it out
Sounds Great!
Thanks Phil well done
I've owned a couple Journey Instruments carbon fiber guitars, and they were both really good. I owned one of the Enya carbon fiber guitars, and it was just okay. I've played a bunch of KLOS carbon fiber guitars, and never found one that I was inclined to put my money down. On somewhat of a lark, I bought a used 2021 Emerald X7 (parlor/travel size) from GC and had it shipped to my local store. I only buy used kit from GC and my thought was if I don't like it, their returns are quick and easy. I love it. Amazing build quality, sounds great, plays great, and a definite keeper. It's been my EDC guitar ever since. Emerald truly does set the bar on carbon fiber instruments, and their almost endless configuration options are second to none.
Very unique and nice looking guitar. The acoustic tone seems a little muffled in the upper midrange... to my ears. I guess the pickup & amp could fill that, if wanted?
Sounds and looks amazing, love your channel - you always have so much information and enthusiasm, and no ego - "If you can shred on this . . . " This is the first acoustic other than my Martin and the newer Taylor 914CE models I've really liked the look and tone of, until you plugged it in - I wonder if they have an option other than a piezo. Acoutstic guitars are so hard to amplify, but I'd rather have a multi-source pickup system like an LR Baggs Anthem. Definitely will be checking them out though!
I'll never own one of these, but I've been waiting for this video. Incredible guitar!
Would love to see your new Heritage
I enjoy your work sir.
I’d love to see a head to head to head between three similar bidirectional carbon fiber guitar designs from KLOS, Emerald, and McPherson. Personally, I think KLOS gets you best bang for the buck as far as giving the best quality CF and features for bidirectional for up to half the cost of the other two brands. They offer lots of customization options - not quite full custom shop, but close to it. Would love to see you compare guitars from all three to see what you get or don’t get from each of these three brands making bidirectional CF guitars.
Beautiful and sounds good too!
Definitely agree that it sounds better plugged in than not. I wonder if the location of the sound hole has anything to do with that? Beautiful craftsmanship.
Because of the sound hole design, they sound especially amazing to the player.
Emerald sets the bar! My x20 is a dream! I pray they make a straight electric guitar some day.
The Virtuo can scratch that itch pretty easy...
The acoustic sound from it is "lighter" than your X20 & gives it the HollowBody electric feel.
There's no lack of Rock growl from the Fishman Fluence pick-ups,
then there's the ones under the saddles for those who are MIDI inclined
Coupled with all the toggles & push-pulls, there's just sooo many tone combos!!!
Pretty damn impressive - especially the tone. Thank you, as always.
Great review, as always, thanks for the time and detail
I know KDH isn't everyone's cup of tea but he did an excellent tour of their manufacturing facility which is well worth a look. They make amazing guitars.
Thanks for pointing it out, I'm a big KDH fan.
I think this would make a great travel guitar. Quality built, it sounds big and has reasonably good acoustic tone.
Barring a change of strings or being plugged-in, the tone will always stay the same. It can't open up with age or playing as a woody does. Depending on the usage, that can be a plus.
I have an X30 (their big jumbo). It's a gorgeous guitar and sounds great. I wanted it because I live in crazy Florida weather, and like you, barely even have to tune it. The only thing that I don't like is the pinless bridge. The guitar is a complete pain in the butt to string. Also, since there are no pins, I find myself sometimes unintentionally muting the strings.
A good choice for busking or on the road ...
Awe…I really want one! Nice demo Phil ! ❤
Sounds and looks fantastic. Really top quality for sure.
I purchased an X 10 a couple years ago. The main reason I picked it up was because I live in Tucson Arizona , a very dry climate. I travel on a regular basis to Hawaii, which is a higher humidity climate. These guitars are easy to travel with , always stay in tune and you don’t have to worry about them being damaged on a flight .This week I received my second Emerald Guitar, the X 20, which is the full body acoustic . Yes they don’t sound like a Taylor but I would never take my Taylor to the beach. Mahalo
I appreciate the review. It’s a looker for sure and the fact that it’s indestructible, as far as humidity is concerned is really impressive but not for me right now. Maybe someday?
I imagine the CF top of this guitar will never suffer typical long term effects of wood? Like bulging at the saddle and caving in at the neck heel?
It sounds great - little different but great.
I've got 2 Emerald guitars.
A Green X20 and their demo lefty Amicus.
Both have been amazing.
If you can try the hyvibe system, it's quite good.
Phil.....I've been begging you for YEARS to try one of these.....so glad you finally did and so glad you love it. Quite frankly, and this is going to sound like hyperbole, they are perfect. I have two Emeralds (an X20 12 string with a Ziricote top, and an X30 with a flamed maple top). Make no mistake, these are NOT inexpensive options, but as you have discovered, the price for perfection. I've had my 12 string for many years now, and it plays the same as the day I got it. And Alistair is such a nice person and loves his customers.
Very cool. beautiful too; it looks to be really deep, but maybe it's just the way it looks on camera. This is the future, the materials are easier to work with, easier to standardize production, and like you said they're bulletproof. You don't have to worry about the rain forests or anything else. As electronics are added, the sound can be enhanced any way a processor is set to do it. Wood guitars will become specialty boutique items.
Great vid, great guitar. I love my Rainsong. Have you got any thoughts on the company out there that's making carbon fibre necks for Strats and Teles. 👍
When i saw the guitar and listened to the description I thought it was amazing, then heard it being played and I actually got goosebumps
Sounds lively enough. I like the offering of nut-width choice. Why do more guitar manufacturers not offer this?
Be brave, go to 48 or even 50mm.
I play a 52mm nut and love it.
I wish you had used a traditional acoustic in the Sound Demo as kind of a baseline to "calibrate" our ears to your recording setup. I KNOW it will sound different, but based on your recording setup, HOW does it sound different. If I don't like the sound of the carbon fiber guitar, is it because I don't like the sound of the guitar, or do I not like the sound you were able to capture with your recording rig. If the traditional acoustic is not to my liking either, then I know it's just the recording and I can make some mental compensation to what it would sound like when I play it.
Wonderfull, until you mention price!
True. Awfully pricey for some epoxy they popped out of a mold and polished.
These guitars are a Heirloom piece IMO. They will be passed down for generations and if you ever own one you will be amazed that they never come out of tune. I mean the only variable is the stings themselves. Incredible sound too
I like it!
Their website is fantastic. Saving for an Emerald now.
Phil, did you say "Acoustic Image" guitar? I've never heard of them. I've tried searching for "Acoustic Image Composite guitar" and "Acoustic Image Carbon Fiber guitar" and I can't find anything about them at all. Got a link or any hints on better search terms?
Emerald guitars are superb. I love all of mine
I've had my emerald x7 for 3 years now and it replaced all my other high end acoustic guitars. Unplugged it's good sounding but not as good as my martins we're. However, on stage it blows them all away and always steals the room when I play it. Most important though it's so damn playable. I capo up as high as the 10th fret quite regularly and not else on the market compares to the x7 for versatility
Amazing Guitar!
Looks beautiful. I'd love to try one out. They sure are pricey though!
KDH did an awesome video tour of the factory with the CEO. I’m currently saving and waiting for them to do a full on electric (T-style, P90s, Bigsby please 😹).
Really like the Virtuo model.
The argument you make for this guitar makes sense🎸Great job🏅
I have an X20. As Phil says amazing guitar.
Beautiful looker, tone is a bit bright for me, I play a jumbo so there ya go, but EQ plugged in would help that out.
They make a jumbo model called the X30. The X20 is their dreadnaught sized guitar.
@@rogerdaly6326 I wonder if it has a little more bass? I guess the brightness comes from the materials used so, perhaps the jumbo sounds beefier
@@akwamarsunzal Emerald has a YT video doing a sound comparison of their different models
I have the X30. It's a big. loud beast and has a huge low end.
I've owned 2, custom ordered. X20 and X30. Insane guitars. But you have to get used to the sound difference. Its just different. It will never sound like a taylor or Martin. It is its own thing. If you can afford an extra guitar, having one of these is great as Phil said. They are indestructible. The X30 has a massive sound. I ended up doing what stupid musicians do and sold both. I regret selling the X20. Now I'm looking for an indestructible good guitar in my collection that can travel. I had that. The X30 was just massive. From the first strum, I've never heard an acoustic put sound out like that. Too much for me but incredibly comfortable to play. X20 was perfect for normal acoustic size.
Hmm the price is a tad lofty. For the same price as a Gibson J45 or Hummingbird that keeps/increases its value, i think I know what I'd pick.
I think we R looking @ the future!! I agree it sounds better pluged in. But it sounds better than any budget acoustic out their. I want a Gibson Dove single cut Ebobony!!👍👍👍👍 Martin's, Guild's, Taylor's R Sweet! But the Dove has me!
I hope you try out the emerald harp guitar that would be sweet
Peace ✌️ n serenity
Carbon fiber is very cool. I have had a Composite Acoustics (CA) for years with no problems. Too bad they went out of business after Peavey bought them out.
I don't even play acoustics but for a moment watching this video I considered it. Sweet guitar!
I'm more interested in this brand after watching this review!!! I prefer the sound of my D-28, but the temptation to own a guitar that doesn't need much TLC is almost too great for me to resist.
Fun personal fact: I used to wish for more high-end sparkle from my guitars and strings until I had my hearing checked. Premium hearing aids have given me what I've been missing.
I thought they were already popular, I see them everywhere for a few years.
I think it sounds amazing. It’s not as warm as it would Guitar, but it sounds great.
Looking at the bridge, how do you restring this guitar? I ask because it looks like the strings are coming up out of the body.
Nice sounds amazing
Yeah ... for $4K+ 😮
Or $2300.
Emerald is an awesome company.
I am going to look ALOTE into this Co. I AM VEARY INTERESTED IN THIS CO.!!!
Sound's Great either Way...
the perfect guitar for Asia. But can you play rock with effect on it? :) I bet Tommy Emmanuel has one, but I'd love to see Nuno Bettencort play one electric. What's to stop them from making solid bodies THAT STABLE?
They have humbucker options
Guitar looks and sounds great
I'm only 3 minutes in, but I'm curious how having the soundhole that close to the neck will come into play when micing it up. We'll see if he goes there.
What LR baggs pick up is that? I don't see one that looks like that one.
I hate my pick up in my Taylor 114, it's so bad. Picks up the stratching of the strings more than the tone of the guitar.
But...but...but....what about the tonewoods??!?! ;P Look forward to see the inevitable blind ABX tone tests between things like this cutting edge acoustic versus traditional acoustics. I for one welcome both approaches. No reason at all to fight, except for those people who are simply belligerent bums. Love my Taylor. But I could for sure see myself loving something like this too. :)
Jesus, that might be imo the best guitar tone I've heard on your channel acoustic or not
Phil can u review their hybrid guitar as well?