WANTED: Emmons, ShoBud or perhaps something outside of the b

[joehw]

Hello there,

Thought I'd post in here seeing as there might be some steelies out there who I've not yet hounded about getting my first PSG.
Thanks to Derek Thurlby, John Davis, Darren, Jon and the South London Steelies for all the encouragement and assistance to date. You've been a great help!

I have had a play on both student and professional models and have decided I'm not in the market for a student steel. I'd rather spend a bit more on a more professional instrument.

So far I've played a very poorly set up MSA U12 (shoved in a corner in a shop down Denmark Street), a couple of Emmons, GFIs and a Magnum. I really liked the Emmons sound but have still not had a proper go on a Sho Bud (I want to know what all the fuss is about!). I'm definitely after a 10 string, preferably with a rest and a 3+3/4 pedal - lever set up.

If anyone is thinking of selling a ShoBud or Emmons or maybe something else I've not yet considered please give me a shout - I'd be very interested. I'm based in London.
Or if anyone has any more advice I'd be grateful to hear it.

Thanks!
Joe.

[Tony Russell Davis]

Here's some thoughts. Further to what you have decided yourself, go for three pedals and four knee-levers from the start if possible. It'll be easier, and cheaper in the long run, than adding one to a 3+3 setup. The 3+3 will do a lot, but 3+4 setup will do as much as most folks need for E9th work. But if you find an affordable and decent guitar with more - don't be put off, you can "grow into" such machines.
Having said that, the foremost requirement is the sound. Many older guitars are disregarded on account of weight and "old fashioned" mechanics these days, but if you're looking for a reasonable price they can be good value. Emmons have an outstanding reputation but won't come cheap. ShoBuds may be more reasonable but don't forget to check out ZB and even Marlen, they all have devotees; and for good reason. There's mixed reviews on certain vintages of Deckley, MSA and Sierra (soundwise - the mechanics are superb) but they too have their fans - you've just got to use your ears to find the sound you like.
And make sure you are comfortable, can you get your knees underneath, or is it too high for you; can you cope with the string spacing (many older guitars have wider spacing).
Overall - good luck in your search and welcome into the asylum!
PS. on a matter if information, of the guitars mentioned above, I have owned ShoBud, Marlen, ZB and Sierra and found differences in sound - but have liked them all in their own way.

[Zebedee]

Old Emmons (push-pulls) are a bit clunky to play, but nearly always have a tonal clarity that is superior to other steels.

It's probably due to the construction of the changer, which differs totally from an all-pull steel (Shobud, MSA, Carter).

I've also noticed that my push-pull is very 'forgiving' in live situations, and I could always get a decent tone out of it, so it became my workhorse.

[Dave Nutt]

Not sure if you know this.
John Davis had a Sho Bud S10, Pro 1- 3 +4. I'm not sure if he has sold it but can vouch for the guitar, probably the best condition S10. I have seen or played in many years.
If your looking for a Professional guitar give him a shout.
Dave.

[henry]

I would go and have a look at what John has on offer..!

where did they have the MSA in Denmark St?

[David Hartley]

Hi.
Grab the ShoBud from John quick..
It's immaculate I have heard.
PM me if you like, John is here tomorrow,

[JohnDavisStringsHere]

Too late already that one's gone>>>>>>>>>>>

[joehw]

Thanks for your suggestions and comments. I would have loved the ShoBud from John but I think Darren pipped me to it!

Henry - The MSA is in Hanks (last one on the end - next to the 12 bar) If you're down Denmark St, PM me - I work down that way.

Zebedee - I had a go on John's lovely push-pull Emmons and it sounded amazing. Didn't feel bad on the pedals either (but then again I'm a complete novice and still getting to know what feels comfortable/easy to play).

And will check out some other manufacturers - thanks for the tips Tony!

Cheers.

[Malcolm]

Check out Magnum that John has, these are Carter built, excellent tone, reasonable weight, easy to maintain overall great value.

[JohnDavisStringsHere]

That one's gone too Malcolm tho its not left the building yet >>>>>>>