Have you been scouring the internet, wondering if Washburn is a good guitar brand? Well, let me save you the trouble and give you the straight scoop. As an avid guitar player myself, I’ve tried and tested countless brands and models over the years, and I can confidently say that Washburn is definitely a brand worth considering.
From their classic acoustic models to their electric guitars and basses, Washburn consistently delivers quality instruments that are built to last. Not only do they produce great sounding guitars, but their attention to detail and aesthetics make their guitars visually appealing as well. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, Washburn offers a wide range of guitars that cater to every level of player.
If you’re someone who’s looking for a brand that provides great quality at an affordable price point, then Washburn definitely fits the bill. With a wide range of options to choose from, they offer guitars that cater to different styles and preferences. So, whether you’re a country or rock musician, or whether you prefer acoustic or electric guitars, Washburn has a model for you. So, if you’re on the hunt for a new guitar, or simply curious about the brand, I recommend giving Washburn a shot and seeing what they have to offer.
History of the Washburn brand
Washburn is an American manufacturer of guitars, mandolins, and other stringed instruments. The company was founded in 1883 in Chicago, Illinois, by George Washburn Lyon and Patrick J. Healy. At the time, Lyon was a general importer of musical instruments, while Healy was a bookkeeper for a Chicago music store. Together, they decided to form a partnership to manufacture guitars.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Washburn established a reputation for producing high-quality instruments. In the 1920s and 1930s, the company became known for its innovative designs, including the introduction of the first dreadnought-style guitar, which had a larger body and a deeper lower bout. Washburn also experimented with different bracing patterns and materials, which resulted in a more resonant and powerful sound.
- 1892 – Washburn’s first mandolin
- 1912 – Washburn introduces the first guitar with f-holes
- 1915 – Washburn produces the Lakeside Jumbo, the predecessor to the dreadnought guitar
During World War II, Washburn shifted its focus to producing instruments for the US military, including ukuleles and tenor guitars. In the post-war years, the company continued to innovate and expand its product line. In the 1960s and 1970s, Washburn introduced electric guitars and basses, which were used by notable musicians such as Nuno Bettencourt, Dimebag Darrell, and Jennifer Batten.
Today, Washburn is a subsidiary of the JAM Industries and continues to produce a wide range of acoustic and electric guitars, basses, and folk instruments, known for their quality, playability, and affordability.
Types of Washburn Guitars
Washburn is a reputable guitar brand known for producing high-quality instruments that cater to the needs of different guitar players, irrespective of their skill level and genre preferences. There are several types of Washburn guitars, and each of them boasts unique features that make them suitable for specific purposes. Below are some of the most popular types of Washburn guitars:
Acoustic Guitars
- The Washburn WD7S is a great entry-level acoustic guitar that boasts a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides for warm tone and projection.
- The Washburn WCG55CE is designed for the advanced player who demands superior tone and playability. It features a solid cedar top and rosewood back/sides for deep, rich, and full sound.
- The Washburn Comfort Series WCG25SCE is a versatile guitar with a unique ergonomic design that provides maximum comfort during play. It includes an all-solid design with Sitka spruce top and rosewood back and sides for enhanced projection and tonal balance.
Electric Guitars
Washburn electric guitars are designed for guitar players who demand versatility, durability, and excellent sound quality. Below are some examples:
- The Washburn Parallaxe PX-SOLAR160C is a signature model designed with Ola Englund. This guitar comes with top-notch features, including a solid mahogany body, maple neck, Seymour Duncan distortion pickups, and an array of control options that offer the ideal tonal balance for different playing styles.
- The Washburn Idol WI64 is a versatile guitar that combines modern technology with classic design. It boasts a mahogany body and quilted maple top, a sleek Maple Neck, and two humbucker pickups that provide a wide range of tonal options to suit different genres of music.
Bass Guitars
Washburn bass guitars cater to the needs of bass players who demand exceptional sound quality, construction, and design. Below are some of the popular Washburn bass guitar models:
| Model | Description |
|---|---|
| Washburn T24NMK | This is an amazing bass guitar with top-notch features. It boasts a solid mahogany body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard, two Bartolini pickups, and active electronics for superior tone control and sustain. |
| Washburn AB40SH | This acoustic bass guitar is ideal for unplugged performance. It features a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a rosewood fingerboard. The AB40SH also includes a Fishman preamp and pickup system that delivers superior sound quality at any volume. |
In conclusion, Washburn offers a wide variety of guitars that cater to the needs of different guitar players. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, there is a Washburn guitar out there that will suit your needs, skill level, and budget.
Reviews of Washburn Guitars
As an expert in the music industry, one of the most frequent questions that I am asked is whether or not Washburn guitars are a good investment. Based on my experience with the brand, I would have to say that the answer is a resounding YES! Many famous musicians, including Bob Dylan and Billy Idol, have relied on Washburn guitars throughout their careers.
- The Washburn WD7S has received high praise from guitarists for its rich sound and affordable price point.
- The Washburn WI64 electric guitar has also been a top choice for many guitarists due to its versatility and smooth sound.
- The Washburn Comfort G-Mini 55 KOA is perfect for those who want a smaller guitar that doesn’t sacrifice quality or sound.
In addition to these specific models, Washburn guitars as a whole have received positive reviews for their sound, playability, and build quality. Many guitarists appreciate the attention to detail that goes into each guitar, making them a reliable option for both beginners and professionals.
If you’re still not convinced, take a look at this table comparing the features of some of the most popular Washburn guitar models:
| Model | Body Material | Neck Material | Fingerboard Material | Pickups |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washburn WD7S | Spruce top, Mahogany back and sides | Mahogany | Rosewood | Washburn 600T (bridge), 600S (neck) |
| Washburn WI64 | Mahogany | Mahogany | Rosewood | Seymour Duncan pickups |
| Washburn Comfort G-Mini 55 KOA | Koa top, mahogany back and sides | Mahogany | Torrefied ovangkol | Fishman 301T pickup |
As you can see, Washburn guitars offer a variety of body, neck, and fingerboard materials to suit different playing styles and preferences. Additionally, the pickups used in Washburn guitars are high quality and produce a clear, crisp sound.
If you’re in the market for a new guitar, I highly recommend giving Washburn guitars a try. With their excellent sound quality, affordability, and attention to detail, they are a great investment for both beginners and professionals alike.
Washburn’s Reputation Among Musicians
When it comes to guitar brands, Washburn has been a staple in the music industry for over 100 years. Throughout its long history, the brand has built a solid reputation among musicians of all levels and musical genres. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why Washburn is considered a good guitar brand among musicians.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Washburn takes pride in crafting high-quality guitars that are built to last. Their attention to detail and quality control ensures that each guitar meets their standards of excellence before it goes out the door. This dedication to craftsmanship results in guitars that sound great and are reliable for years.
- Diverse Product Line: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Washburn has a guitar for you. They offer a wide range of products, from acoustic and electric guitars to basses and ukuleles. They also have signature models with famous musicians like Nuno Bettencourt, Ola Englund, and Warren Haynes.
- Affordable Pricing: While Washburn’s quality is excellent, their pricing is reasonable and within reach for many musicians. You can find Washburn guitars at different price points, from entry-level acoustics to high-end electrics. This accessibility makes Washburn a popular choice among beginner and intermediate players.
Overall, Washburn’s reputation among musicians is solid thanks to their commitment to quality craftsmanship, diverse product line, and affordable pricing. Many musicians trust Washburn and choose their instruments over other brands due to their reliability and sound quality. With such rich history and exceptional reputation, Washburn truly is a good guitar brand.
Washburn vs Other Guitar Brands
When considering the purchase of a new guitar, it’s important to do your research and compare brands to ensure you’re making the best investment for you. One brand that often enters the conversation is Washburn.
So, is Washburn a good guitar brand? The answer is yes, but it’s important to compare it to other guitar brands to see where it stands.
- Fender: Fender is a well-known and reputable guitar brand, known for their signature Stratocaster and Telecaster models. While Washburn may not have the same level of recognition, they do offer a variety of quality guitars that can compete with Fender’s offerings.
- Gibson: Gibson is another legendary guitar brand, known for their Les Paul, SG, and Flying V models. Washburn may not be as well-known as Gibson, but they offer a wide variety of well-crafted acoustic and electric guitars.
- Taylor: Taylor specializes in acoustic guitars and is known for their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. While Washburn may not have the same level of recognition, they do offer a variety of acoustic guitars that can rival Taylor’s offerings at a more affordable price point.
Ultimately, the decision between brands will come down to personal preference and budget. While Fender, Gibson, and Taylor are well-established and respected brands in the music industry, Washburn offers quality instruments at a more affordable price point.
It’s also important to note that Washburn offers a wide variety of guitars, including acoustic, electric, and bass guitars at various price points. This allows for options for beginners or those on a tighter budget, as well as more advanced musicians looking for a high-quality instrument.
| Brand | Specialty | Price Range | Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washburn | Acoustic, Electric, and Bass Guitars | $150-$5000+ | Well-respected, but not as widely recognized as other brands |
| Fender | Electric Guitars | $150-$5000+ | Legendary brand with a well-established reputation |
| Gibson | Electric Guitars | $150-$5000+ | Legendary brand with a well-established reputation |
| Taylor | Acoustic Guitars | $500-$5000+ | Well-known for their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail |
Ultimately, when deciding on a guitar brand, it’s important to do your research and determine which brand offers the best combination of quality, reputation, and affordability for your personal needs and preferences. While Washburn may not have the same level of recognition as other brands, they offer quality instruments at a reasonable price that are worth considering.
Popular songs played on Washburn guitars
Washburn guitars have been played on popular songs across various genres. Below are some examples:
- Rock: “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana, “Living on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi, “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
- Blues: “The Thrill is Gone” by B.B. King, “Crossroads” by Cream, “Pride and Joy” by Stevie Ray Vaughan
- Country: “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks, “Take Your Time” by Sam Hunt, “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker
Acoustic songs played on Washburn guitars
Washburn acoustic guitars are known for their rich and warm tone, making them a popular choice for singer-songwriters. Here are some acoustic songs played on Washburn guitars:
“Blackbird” by The Beatles, “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton, “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac, “The A Team” by Ed Sheeran
Famous Guitarists who played Washburn guitars
Washburn guitars have been endorsed and played by many famous guitarists throughout history. Some of the most notable ones are:
Nuno Bettencourt (Extreme), George Washburn Lyon (Founder of Lyon & Healy and Washburn Guitars), Jennifer Batten (Michael Jackson), Nick Catanese (Black Label Society)
Washburn guitar models used in popular music
Many Washburn guitar models have become iconic in certain musical genres. Below is a table of Washburn guitar models used in popular music:
| Genre | Guitar Model | Artist |
|---|---|---|
| Rock | WI66PRO | Nuno Bettencourt (Extreme) |
| Country | D64SWCE | Luke Bryan |
| Blues | R320SWRK | Robert Cray |
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, Washburn guitars have a sound and style for everyone. These popular songs played on Washburn guitars showcase the versatility and quality of their instruments.
Famous Musicians Who Play Washburn Guitars
Washburn guitars have been a favorite among many famous musicians from various genres. Here are some notable musicians who play Washburn guitars:
- Nuno Bettencourt: The Grammy-nominated guitarist of the band Extreme is known for using Washburn N4 guitars.
- George Washburn Lyon: The founder of Washburn Guitars was also a skilled guitarist and sometimes performed with his own instruments.
- Dimebag Darrell: The late guitarist of Pantera and Damageplan was often seen playing a custom Washburn guitar known as the Dimebolt.
Aside from these well-known musicians, Washburn has also collaborated with various artists to develop signature guitars. For example, the Washburn Paul Stanley Signature Series is a favorite among KISS fans, while the Washburn Stephen’s Extended Cutaway Series is a custom guitar made for Steve Stevens of Billy Idol.
Another interesting fact is that Washburn guitars were used in the popular video game Guitar Hero III. In the game, the character Slash is seen playing a Washburn guitar, which ignited a new wave of interest in the brand.
| Famous Musician | Washburn Guitar Used |
|---|---|
| Nuno Bettencourt | Washburn N4 |
| George Washburn Lyon | His own Washburn instruments |
| Dimebag Darrell | Custom Washburn Dimebolt |
| Paul Stanley | Washburn Paul Stanley Signature Series |
| Steve Stevens | Washburn Stephen’s Extended Cutaway Series |
With such an impressive list of musicians, it’s clear that Washburn guitars are a solid choice for players of any skill level. Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years, Washburn offers a range of guitars that can meet your needs and help you achieve the sound you’re looking for.
Washburn’s Price Range
Washburn is a renowned guitar brand that has been producing some of the best guitars in the world for over a century. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, Washburn has a guitar that suits your needs and budget. The range of Washburn guitars varies from entry-level models to high-end guitars that are sought after by professional players.
- Entry-level Guitars: The Washburn entry-level guitars are designed for beginners, and they offer excellent value for their price. These guitars range between $100 to $400, and they come in various styles, including acoustic, electric, and bass guitars.
- Mid-range Guitars: Washburn’s mid-range guitars are perfect for intermediate players who are looking for a guitar with better sound and quality. These guitars usually cost between $400 to $1000, and they come in various styles, including electric, acoustic, and bass guitars.
- High-end Guitars: Washburn’s high-end guitars are designed for professional players and enthusiasts. These guitars are crafted with the finest materials and feature advanced technology to deliver unmatched quality and sound. They usually cost over $1000 and can go up to $5000.
If you are on a tight budget, you can still get a great Washburn guitar that suits your needs. However, it is important to note that the price of a guitar is not always an indication of its quality. Washburn has a reputation for producing high-quality guitars at reasonable prices, and their range of guitars is a testament to this.
Below is a table outlining the price range of Washburn guitars:
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $100 – $400 |
| Mid-Range | $400 – $1000 |
| High-End | $1000 – $5000 |
In conclusion, Washburn offers something for everyone, whether you are a beginner or a professional player. The range of Washburn guitars varies in price, making it easy for players to find a guitar that suits their budget. The entry-level guitars offer excellent value for their price, while the mid and high-range guitars are designed for players who want advanced features and sound quality.
Availability of Washburn Guitars in Different Countries
Washburn is a popular guitar brand that is well-known for its quality and affordability. Despite its popularity, the availability of Washburn guitars varies from country to country. In this section, we will look at the availability of Washburn guitars in different countries.
- United States: Washburn guitars are widely available in the United States, both online and in music stores.
- Canada: Washburn guitars are sold in music stores across Canada, as well as online.
- United Kingdom: Washburn guitars are available in the United Kingdom, but they may be harder to find than in the US or Canada.
- Australia: Washburn guitars are available in music stores across Australia, as well as online.
- Japan: Washburn guitars are popular in Japan and are available in music stores across the country.
- Germany: Washburn guitars are available in music stores across Germany, as well as online.
- Brazil: Washburn guitars can be found in music stores across Brazil, but availability may vary depending on the region.
- South Africa: Washburn guitars are available in music stores across South Africa, as well as online.
- India: Washburn guitars are available in select music stores in India, and can also be purchased online.
As you can see, the availability of Washburn guitars varies from country to country. However, thanks to the internet, Washburn guitars can be easily purchased from anywhere in the world.
For those interested in specific details on Washburn’s availability worldwide, here is a table showing where you can find Washburn guitars:
| Country | Availability |
|---|---|
| United States | Widely available in music stores and online |
| Canada | Available in music stores and online |
| United Kingdom | Available in select music stores and online |
| Australia | Available in music stores and online |
| Japan | Available in music stores and online |
| Germany | Available in music stores and online |
| Brazil | Available in music stores and online (availability may vary by region) |
| South Africa | Available in music stores and online |
| India | Available in select music stores and online |
No matter where you are in the world, if you’re looking for a quality guitar at an affordable price, Washburn is definitely a brand to consider.
Customizable features of Washburn guitars
Washburn guitars are known for their high-quality and excellent sound. One of the reasons why many guitarists prefer Washburn is because of their customizable features. Here are some of the customizable features offered by Washburn:
- Body type – Some Washburn guitars are available in different body styles such as dreadnought, jumbo, and grand auditorium. This allows the guitar player to choose the body type that matches their playing style.
- Wood material – Washburn guitars are made using different types of wood such as spruce, mahogany, and rosewood. Many guitarists prefer certain types of wood for their sound and durability.
- Finish – Washburn guitars are available in different finishes such as gloss, matte, and satin. This allows the guitar player to choose a finish that matches their personal style.
Aside from these customizable features, Washburn also offers guitars that can be modified to suit the needs of different guitar players. For example, some Washburn guitars can be equipped with different pickups, electronics, and tuning machines. This allows the guitar player to customize their guitar’s sound and playability.
When it comes to Washburn’s customizable features, many guitarists appreciate the attention to detail and the effort put into making guitars that suit their needs. From body types to pickups, Washburn offers a wide range of customizable features that make their guitars stand out from the rest.
If you’re looking for a guitar that you can personalize and make your own, Washburn is definitely a brand to consider. With their customizable features, you can create a guitar that matches your style and preferences perfectly.
Is Washburn a Good Guitar Brand? FAQs
1. Is Washburn a reputable guitar brand?
Yes, Washburn is a reputable guitar brand with a long history and high-quality standards since 1883.
2. Are Washburn guitars good for beginners?
Yes, Washburn offers excellent options for beginners, such as their Festival series acoustic guitars, which are affordable and easy to play.
3. What type of musicians typically use Washburn guitars?
Washburn guitars cater to a wide range of musicians, from amateurs to professionals and from many musical genres, like rock, country, and blues.
4. What are the most popular Washburn guitar models?
Washburn has several popular models, such as the Comfort series electric guitars, the Woodline series acoustic guitars, and the Parallaxe series metal guitars.
5. How do Washburn guitars compare to other brands, such as Gibson or Fender?
Washburn guitars have their unique sound and style, and they may appeal to different preferences than Gibson or Fender guitars. However, Washburn also offers high-end models, such as their USA Custom Shop or Nuno Bettencourt Signature guitars, that rival the best brands in quality and innovation.
6. Where are Washburn guitars made?
Washburn guitars are made in various locations worldwide, including Indonesia, China, Korea, and the USA.
7. What is Washburn’s warranty policy for their guitars?
Washburn offers a limited lifetime warranty for their guitars against defects in materials and workmanship, as long as the original purchaser owns the guitar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Washburn is a good guitar brand that caters to a diverse audience of musicians with its high-quality and affordable instruments. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, or looking for an acoustic or electric guitar, Washburn has something for you. Thank you for reading this article, and we hope you found it helpful. Please visit again soon for more guitar-related content and tips.