Irish Guitars

[Dr.Dirk]

Well folks, as we are probably all fans of the sound of Avalon guitars it would be interesting what you think of the tonal differences created by the familiar Irish guitar makers (Avalon, McIlroy and Lowden) nowadays, as everyone has been moving on to concentrate on their own ideas for a few years now. This is not meant in a "better or worse" way, but it would be interesting to hear what you think.
Of course it all depends heavily on the choice of woods in the first place, but also different bracing structures, thickness of woods etc. What have been your experiences lately in case you had the chance to play some?

Happy new year to all!

[Dr.Dirk]

Impressive models! My collection has a few Martins and Larrivées which have other qualities than the Avalon L25 I am enjoying right now.
I played my brothers Japanese made Lowden the other day which had even more volume than my Avalon.
Because it is 27 years old and made of different woods the comparison is not an easy one, though. It might be the same with a good whisk(e)y after all ...what the Irish all seem to share are lots of overtones, clear mids and sustain, which makes them outstanding for fingerstyle.

[Ross A]

I own both Avalons and a Lowden (new workshop), and to be honest there isn't too much difference. The build quality on both is top notch, the necks are fantastic, can't fault either at all.

[Dr.Dirk]

Hi Ross,
thanks, that's interesting because you can compare tonal subtleties with current models. I am absolutely convinced that build quality is not an issue with any of the three makers, they are fantastic guitars throughout in their own right.
That's why I thought about tonal variations that might have become sort of a "trademark" for the different luthiers. For instance bracing pattern in current Avalons is often AXEâ„¢ which differs slightly(?) from the old Lowden pattern in order to reduce compression when the guitar is strummed heavily I suppose but will also have an effect on the sound generally, which is in no way meant as a negative statement, I am just curious about the differences...

[Ross A]

I've owned both an Avalon and Lowden S32 models (at different times, and own neither now), and there were definite differences between those two. The Avalon felt lighter, and the tone was brighter and louder. The Lowden felt like all the woods were too thick, and this made it seem quieter and less bright sounding. In my hands the Avalon version felt and sounded like the 'better' guitar, but that is just my opinion.

The Lowden and the Avalon guitars I have at the moment are quite different, so it's hard to compare them - suffice to say they are all excellent in their own ways!

[crofty]

I have a Lowden F32 which replaced Ross's A32 when I let him have it back.
I remember the Avalon A32 as a fine guitar and the present F32 is outstanding.The action/neck is as good as anything I have played.
I think my Lowden has a warmer tone than the Avalon but it could be because it is nearly 20 years old,it could also be something to do with the differences between the pinned/pinless bridges.
I have owned 4 Avalons and 2 Lowdens and played a few others as well,
all were fine instruments.

[Ross A]

it could also be something to do with the differences between the pinned/pinless bridges.

I thought the pinless bridge was detrimental on the smaller bodied Lowden, whereas it seems to work much better on the F Lowden I've got. I might just be imagining that though.