Hi all, thank you in advance!
I am looking for my second tenor (currently play a Regal from the 20's), and although I'm still raising the funds, I was hoping for some advice. I have my dream list of instruments, (mostly Martins), yet am inquiring about instruments that will likely fall below $600. From my research it seems as though the Blueridge BR40t is a top contender among the Goldtone and Ibanez Artwood models. (Maybe there are differing opinions and preferences,.. I'm open to them ).
However, I see a lot of Harmony H1201's, Regal/Harmony merger tenors, Cromwells and Harmony archtops, and Kays or Maybells that are on ebay or reverb and I always wonder,... "how do these vintage instruments stack up against the very available imports from China?"
I know all of these vintage instruments can't be generalized as to quality due to age and that they are different instruments with different attributes,.. But for instance, the Harmony's seem very similar to the imports: spruce tops, laminate back and sides, 0 sized bodies, probably priced without a case . In fact these vintage second tier instruments were manufactured as affordable options to the Martins and Gibsons back in the day, which is what the Chinese imports are presently manufactured to do.
I can clearly understand the advantages of a modern truss rod and a warranty with a new instrument, yet can anyone speak to the resale value on a Chinese import versus that of a good condition Harmony, Regal, Cromwell etc.. which are growing in value?
And most importantly, until I land my Martins, can anyone speak to the sound quality with some of these good condition second tier vintage American instruments and how they compare with the modern counterparts from China?
Thank you all for your experience and willingness to share!
Michael Aiello
artemisiamichaelart.blogspot.com
PS: I am also interested in the conversation surrounding the geopolitical, environmental and socioeconomic implications of buying low cost goods from China. It seems as though the quality is quite amazing for the price, so that isn't the main issue for me. However, I have an uneasy 'cloud of unknowing' about the affects both good and bad of this kind of purchase? How are people being treated in the factories, are the factories environmentally responsible, how can these good instruments be made and imported so inexpensively!!?. Just the tip of the iceberg of questions. I also struggle with the irony that I buy my milk and eggs locally but can only really afford to buy an instrument from China!! (or take another ebay chance on an American instrument made 50 years ago). Thanks all!
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