I've only been playing Eastman guitars for less than a year, but when I've had the opportunity to tell people about my guitar they usually ask, "What's an Eastman?" I then tell them a little about Eastman and how great their quality is, and if given the chance I let them play mine (E10D-TC). However, when they find out Eastman's are produced in China the conversation soon begins to loose some steam. 

This has led me to wonder, what do people usually associate with Eastmans?

I've been a Martin fan ever since I've played guitar and I've always associated Martin's with quality and craftmanship. These days you don't find very many companies that have as rich of history as Martin. While I have two USA Martin's, I haven't always been able to spend $2k, $5k or even $10k+ on a quality American made guitar. 

As an American, I believe it is good to support American craftsmanship, and this has always led me to be weary of cheap foreign products, especially those produced in China. Yet, I believe Eastman is one of the very few companies crafting some very fine instruments in China. However, others don't always see it this way, and sometimes boycott anything made in China. So, at times, I've struggled to find pride in my Eastman when talking to those who haven't yet converted over. 

When I think of Eastman, I think of a company that is at the crossroads of quality and affordability. Regardless of where they are produced, Eastman is making some amazing guitars. 

What stigma do you, and others, usually associate with Eastman guitars?

Hi all - 

The Eastman that was left in the cold (see this thread) also developed a top crack.  

I am curious if anyone here has experience or advice in dealing with top cracks.  This happened over three years ago, and does not seem to have 'moved' - but I don't want it to get worse.  How do I know when a top needs to be repaired, versus when it is stable?  What kind of repair would even be done?

The guitar sounds as great as ever and it seems to be just cosmetic, but wanted to get some feedback.  I am trying to keep the guitar properly humidified here in bone dry Arizona.

Pictures:

Happy New Year to all - I have been playing an E10D for about 18 months and truly love it - for this guitar I have always stuck with  light strings and been very happy with the output (please note....I am mostly a Bluegrass flatpicker) - I also have a E20D TC on order (since August) and am really looking forward to getting my hands on it - I would really like to hear any / all opinions / wisdom as far as using mediums  - all doctrine from Eastman seems specify lights, but I've heard some gossip in Gym Class (I'm 69 yrs. old) that some folks run mediums on Eastman Dreds with no ill effects. Is there a big difference in volume / tone/ playability between the two ? Any horror stories associated with using mediums? Any comments would be valued...........Thanks !!

At $750 (OBO) + $50 shipping, if I didn't have one I'd be on this yesterday :-)

https://reverb.com/item/7138794-eastman-t486-2017

Hey gang, new E20-OM owner here. Guitar looks lovely but wow does it sound tight. Thinking about swapping out the stock strings. Comments as to what you’ve tried and liked?
Thanks!

For those unfamiliar, the Tonerite provides constant vibration onto your guitar, in order to help it open up.  There is a lot of (rather polarizing) debate about this little device.  Personally, I couldn't justify spending $149 for a new one, but when I found one on eBay for $60 this week, I decided to give it a try (figuring I can likely sell it via CL / eBay, if there's no benefit).

I'm starting with my E20OM-SB, which until recently, has sounded very tight.  There is a dial to set the vibration level, and the directions recommend initial treatments of 72-144 hours (3-6 days).  It rests on the strings, and placement is suggested near the bridge.  So far, I'm over 24 hours in, and I'm resisting the temptation to unplug it and give it a strum.  Also, I have the E20OM-SB sitting on a Hercules guitar rack, and it's indirectly vibrating the other guitars, so I placed my newer guitars next to it!

Obviously, it's premature to comment on whether Tonerite works.  But I was a little surprised at how much it vibrates the top, especially when turned up.  More to follow in a couple of days.  In the meantime, I'd be curious if anyone else has actually tried one of these devices.  Did it work?  Or is it a gimmick?

I have and love an AR371CE but wish that Eastman would make a step up version of this instrument. A laminate instrument has a strong place in the lineup where higher volumes and more roadworthy construction is perfect for conditions that make the lovely AR9xxCE instruments a bit less than an optimal choice. A high quality set-in pickup on a laminated body made with great Maple (or Mahogany) makes a really fine guitar. Think the Sadowski Jim Hall...

If it were offered in a 17" ARX10CE sized body as well... That would be perfect!

Hey guys -

I finally carved out some time to do some recording yesterday.  This is one of my favorite songs from the master Tommy Emmanuel.  This is my best late night effort!  

This is being played the Eastman E6-OM I recently purchased a few weeks ago.  Enjoy and let me know what you think!

Interesting review of one of Eastman's new classical guitars - from a Classical Guitar magazine:

http://classicalguitarmagazine.com/new-g...versatile/

I hope to have a chance to noodle on one of these someday - if I ever encounter one in stock.

Preface:  not sure if anyone here purchased this guitar that recently ended on ebay.  

The reason I am posting this thread:  I admit I thought about buying this one quite a bit as the price was pretty low.

Here it is:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Eastman-E20-OM-...2811219256

The reason I hesitated - I couldn't get over the look of the top.  It's just... strange to me.  I would assume a top like that, with the discoloration, would be more considered a 'B' grade top?  Just curious what others think of the appearance of the top?  I was really close to pulling the trigger on this one...