RainSong Guitars has two similar models, the WS1000 (Classic Series) and the A-WS1000 (Advanced Series), which have very similar body shapes, except that the WS-1000 has a slightly smaller bottom bout (0.05 inches larger). small) and the A-WS1000 has a slightly beveled top and back. Additionally, both feature pure carbon graphite construction and the resulting distinctive tone. Both models also have chrome Gotoh machine heads (1:18) along with Tusq nuts and saddles. However, there are a number of differences between the two, which result in the difference in cost.

First, consider the carbon graphite weave and handwork. The Classic Series has the original (lighter) carbon graphite weave along with significant handwork such as shark position markers along the neck and abalone rosette, while the Advanced Series has a graphite weave. advanced carbon (heavier) and less manual labor. Additionally, the Classic showcases the carbon graphite weave, giving it a brilliant diamond-like appearance; Advanced is also available in a natural look, but also in black, red or blue.

Next, consider the neck. Both models have solid carbon graphite necks, and due to the strength of carbon graphite, allow RainSong to build guitars with very thin necks, allowing for easy playing. However, the Classic Series does not have an adjustable neck, but the Advanced Series does, with a double-action truss rod.

The electronics also differ. The Classic series has the LR Baggs On Board system. The Advanced series has the Fishman Prefix Plus-T, which includes a built-in tuner. The cases also differ. The WS-1000 comes with a hard case, while the A-WS1000 comes with a padded gig bag.

Now, let’s talk about the sound. Both guitars have great clarity along with incredible boosted volume, matching what you’d expect from larger (perhaps louder) wood jumbos. This has the obvious benefit of making swiping, swiping, and hammering seem effortless. The downside is that any minor mistakes you make will also be amplified. In fact, when I played a RainSong for the first time, I felt as if I had gone back in time on my third guitar lesson. It takes a couple of days to adjust to RainSong’s sensitivity, similar to what it is like for an acoustic musician trying out an electric guitar for the first time. However, I see this as a benefit because it forces you to improve your playing, and I actually think RainSong has had this effect on my own playing.

Both guitars work for a variety of different styles, but are particularly good for strumming and flat-picking, and terrific for cross-picking and sliding. For cross picking, the clarity of the guitars makes each one not stand out very well. For slide playing, the RainSongs remind me of sliding on a guitar with f sound holes. I used to have an old Silvertone with f-holes and the RainSongs remind me of the sound of that guitar when it slides.

But what are the differences in sound between the Classic WS-1000 and the Advanced A-WS1000? The Classic is a bright and loud guitar with a piano-like bass. It reminds me of a dreadnought with a sitka top and rosewood back/sides. The Advanced, on the other hand, has a softer tone and reminds me of a dreadnought with a cedar top and mahogany back and sides.

Whichever model you choose, you’ll love the volume, clarity, and durability of RainSong guitars.