Yamaha Silent Guitar (Acoustic)

By Fred, on February 19th, 2010

I first encoumtered the Yamaha Silent Guitar at Music Connection in JHB in October 2005. My first impression was that of shock. A complete “What the …..” moment.

What I didn’t really “get” about the guitar was that it is in fact an instrument. Not merely an ornamental space age design coat hanger type thing. Then, during 2006 I started travelling alot and realised that I was losing alot of practice time as a result. I needed a guitar with travebility!!(There is nothing more stressful than going to Sierra Leone carrying a Les Paul around)

So on returning home, I remembered this strange thing I saw at the shop and went there. They had about 3 in stock and one of them was the nylon version. I went for the steel string acoustic!

As I picked it up I was amazed at how light it was. My first thought was…”Its a Toy!” That was only untill I plugged it in and played it.

It did not quite sound like a Taylor or a Martin…but through the headphones sounded pretty damn close!! I fell in love with it immediately!
I played it in the shop for about 2 hours realising the potential this instrument had as a performance Guitar. Great sound, no feedback, great reverbs and compact!

Another one of its many great features is that I find its playabiliy to be superb. It’s even, balanced and the intonation is amazing.

This guitar has subsequently travelled to about 30 African countries with me. It has taken well to different climates and humidity levels without any dramatic set up’s necessary.

I have used it both live and in the studio. It has become one of my favourites and I cant do without it anymore.

To sum up, the Yamaha Silent Guitar is a unique and superb instrument. It’s design won’t appeal to everybody, but as a mate of mine pointed out… Every guitarist needs to practice late at night once in a while…:)

Take Care
Chat soon

City: Johannesburg

Country: South Africa