
( Brand: Alvarez ), ( Model: PD85SAV ), ( Part Type: Internal ), ( Size: Full Size ), ( String Configuration: 6 String ), ( Dexterity: Right-handed ), ( Model Year: 2005 ), ( Series: Professional ), ( Body Material: Rosewood ), ( Soundboard Style: Flat Top ), ( Body Type: Dreadnought )
The Alvarez PD85Sav acoustic-electric guitar is a stunning and versatile instrument that offers both stage-ready sound and the authentic feel of an acoustic guitar. This model is part of Alvarez's Artist Series, which represents their commitment to delivering high-quality instruments with a focus on rich, detailed tonality and exceptional craftsmanship.
The PD85Sav boasts a solid Sitka Spruce top, a tonewood commonly used for its ability to produce balanced sound with excellent projection, clarity, and volume. The back and sides, meanwhile, are made of Mahogany, a dense and resonant tonewood known for its full-bodied tone and warm, rich overtones. The combination of Sitka Spruce and Mahogany results in a balanced sound with a strong low end, clear midrange, and sweet, singing highs.
The PD85Sav's neck is crafted from Okoume, a tonally neutral and stable wood ideal for the construction of guitar necks. The fingerboard and bridge, however, are made of Rosewood, a durable and beautiful hardwood that is sought after for its rich harmonics and tonal qualities. The slim and elegant neck profile, designed for comfortable playability, is complemented by a 25.5" scale length and a 1.68" nut width, allowing for easy and precise playing.
Equipped with a responsive and articulate Yairi Presense pickup system, the PD85Sav offers plug-and-play versatility for performances in various settings. This system, exclusive to Alvarez, is designed to provide a natural, uncompromised sound when the guitar is amplified. The slim, low-profile pickup easily accommodates the contours of the guitar for a seamless installation, while the volume and tone controls are discreetly located on the bass side of the soundhole.
Additional features include a compensated bone saddle, a coordinated tapered bridge, a lattice brace design, and a real bone nut and bridge pins, which contribute to improved intonation, sustain, and overall tonal quality. The satin finish allows the natural beauty and warmth of the wood to shine through, while the clean, elegant design enhances the guitar's visual appeal.
The Alvarez PD85Sav acoustic-electric guitar is an excellent option for guitarists seeking a professional-grade instrument with a rich, detailed sound, impressive versatility, and exceptional craftsmanship. Its solid tonewood construction, advanced pickup system, and comfortable neck profile make it a constant companion for those who crave an instrument that can deliver both intimately beautiful acoustic tones as well as powerful and nuanced amplified performance.
1. High-Quality Construction: The Alvarez PD85S Avanti is built with a solid Sitka Spruce top, Okoume back and sides, and a C-shaped Mahogany neck, ensuring durability and rich, balanced tone.
2. Versatility: The guitar is both acoustic and electric, offering flexibility for playing in various settings, such as live performances or recording in a studio.
3. Open-Gear Tuning Machines (VGC): The Open-Gear Tuning Machines provide improved tuning stability, allowing for smoother, more accurate tuning.
4. Attractive Design: The cutting-edge design and sleek look of the Avanti series furniture-quality gloss finish appeal to many players and can make for an eye-catching addition to any musician's collection.
5. Affordability: The Alvarez PD85S Avanti is priced more affordably compared to some other professional-grade instruments, making it an accessible choice for musicians of various skill levels and budgets.
Cons:1. Action and Setup: Some buyers have reported needing professional setup and adjustment of the factory-installed strings and action to optimally suit their playing style.
2. Finish: The high-gloss finish tends to be susceptible to minor scratches and smudges, which may require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.
3. bridge and bridge pins: A few customers have noted that the bridge and bridge pins may not be of the same quality as other components, potentially contributing to tuning problems or intonation issues.
4. Size: The cutaway design might not be ideal for traditional acoustic guitar players who prefer the classic feel and full-size body without a cutout.
Conclusion:The Alvarez PD85S Avanti acoustic-electric guitar, especially the version with Open-Gear Tuning Machines (VGC), presents many attractive features such as high-quality construction, versatility, improved tuning stability, great design, and affordability. Although there are a few drawbacks, such as the potential need for setup adjustment and minor finish issues, overall, the pros largely outweigh the cons.
Recommendation:If you're in the market for an acoustic-electric guitar that delivers a balanced sound, attractive design, and good value for the money, the Alvarez PD85S Avanti (VGC) is a solid choice to consider, especially for those who prioritize tuning stability and the flexibility of both acoustic and electric playability. While potential buyers should be aware of the slight concerns regarding factory setup, finishes, bridge and bridge pins, these issues are often manageable with proper maintenance or addressing them with a luthier or professional setup.
Great sounding guitar with solid spruce top and rosewood back. Has a unique violin finish which is very pretty. The guitar is in pristine condition except for one small nick below bout that I tried to show last picture.
Very nice guitar. Action is low and fast. Inlay on head stock is gorgeous.
Couple this with the dreadnought guitars solid rosewood back and you get lush, full-bodied tone amazing projection. Comes with nice hard case in good condition. Just clearing out my inventory. Has internal Alvarez system 600t Mk ii preamps and eq.