In this Eastman Guitars review, we’ll take a look at whether or not these instruments are worth adding to your collection.
As a guitarist, you’re always on the lookout for new gear to enhance your playing experience.
But with all of the different brands and models out there, it can be tough to know which guitars are worth your hard-earned money.
Why Consider an Eastman Guitar?
A lot of people are confused about Eastman guitars.
They often wonder if they make a decent guitar for the money.
If so then why are there negative reviews?
We’ve seen a lot of negative reviews online and in forums, but we have also heard from some very happy customers who love their Eastman guitars.
So what is going on here?
Is this a quality brand?
Are these guitars worth considering as an option if you’re looking to buy a new guitar?
There is a lot of competition in the guitar market and, with so many companies out there to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.
We understand that you want an honest review so we will look at some of the most popular models to find out what people liked or disliked about them.
We aim to give you all the information that you need to decide whether these guitars could be right for your needs.
In this guide, we will try to answer all your questions about Eastman Guitars so that you can make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase your next instrument.
We will review some of their most popular models, talk about what people like and don’t like about them, and then answer some frequently asked questions that people have about these guitars.
We hope that by reading this article you’ll feel more confident when deciding if an Eastman acoustic guitar is right for you or not!
Eastman Guitars History and Quality
As an accomplished flutist from Beijing, Qian Ni founded Eastman Strings in 1992 after graduating from the Boston University School of Music.
His company would quickly grow over the years into a global maker of musical instruments that are proudly hand-crafted in Beijing.
Hand Carved Scalloped X Bracing
Eastman guitars have scalloped X bracing.
One of the most important elements of an acoustic guitar is its built.
This helps to support the soundboard and prevent it from warping or cracking.
There are several different types of braces, but one of the most popular is scalloped x.
Scalloped x bracing gets its name from the way the braces are arranged on the soundboard. In this case, it’s in the shape of an “X”.”
They are spaced further apart near the edges of the soundboard and get closer together in the center.
This allows the soundboard to vibrate more freely, resulting in a richer, fuller sound.
In addition to providing superior tone, scalloped x bracing also helps to protect the soundboard from damage.
Adirondack Spruce
Acoustic guitars are typically made from woods like Sitka spruce, Engelmann spruce, or Adirondack spruce.
These woods are chosen for their ability to produce a clear, resonant tone.
Sitka spruce is the most commonly used wood for acoustic guitars, as it provides a balance of warmth and brightness.
Engelmann spruce is often used for cheaper guitars, as it is not as expensive as Sitka spruce.
Adirondack spruce is the wood of choice for high-end acoustic guitars, as it produces a louder, richer sound.
Eastman Guitars Review
Let us look at some of Eastman’s popular models in our review section.
Best Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
Eastman E2D Dreadnought Guitar with Gig Bag
This guitar has a beautifully rich and warm feel that will enhance your favorite tunes.
The Eastman E2D Dreadnought guitar lets users take a blast to the past while also enjoying every bit of modern sensibility.
The classic sunburst top offset by herringbone trim and Indian Rosewood is a very striking combination.
Also, the Adirondack spruce in the dreadnought body size provides punchy tones that are made all the more romantic thanks to the Indian Rosewood fretboard.
With its easy-to-handle frame and gorgeous Brazilian mahogany pins, you’ll find yourself strumming chords on this dreadnought like never before!
One great thing about this model is that it comes complete with a high-quality gig bag for protecting your prized possession on those long commutes or travels!
Pros
Pros:
- Beautiful, rich, and warm inflection.
- A striking combination of classic sunburst top.
- Indian Rosewood fretboard.
- Adirondack spruce.
- Smooth playing neck.
- It comes with a high-quality gig bag for protection.
Cons
Cons:
- Action may need to be adjusted.
Best Travel Acoustic Guitar
Eastman ACTG1 Traveler Acoustic Guitar, Solid Spruce Top
The Eastman ACTG1 Traveler Acoustic Guitar is perfect for the traveling musician who doesn’t want to lug around a full-size acoustic guitar.
Made with robust Sapele back and sides, the brilliant Solid Spruce wood top combined with a 23.5″ scale length makes this one of the best travel guitars on the market today.
It comes complete with a padded gig bag so you can transport your baby anywhere in style!
Eastman’s ACTG1 Traveler Acoustic Guitar, Solid Spruce Top is way more than just a name – this little beauty has all it takes to keep you in tune and sounding awesome wherever you are.
Whether it’s being used as an alternative travel instrument for those trying to fit their guitars into tiny suitcases or as a beginner guitar for anyone struggling to handle full-sized acoustics, this mini-guitar packs a punch!
Pros
Pros:
- Robust Sapele back and sides.
- Brilliant Solid Spruce top.
- 23.5″ scale.
- Padded bag for easy transport.
- Perfect for travel or as a beginner guitar.
- Easy to play and smooth neck.
Cons
Cons:
- May be too small for some people.
Best Acoustic Guitar for Overall Balance and Sound
Eastman E20 Orchestra Model Acoustic Guitar with Hardshell Case
The Eastman E20 Orchestra Model Acoustic Guitar with Hardshell Case is next up on our list.
With such a low price point and fantastic quality, these guitars are more than worth it.
The Indian Rosewood ensures that this guitar sounds as good as can be for its cost point.
Additionally, this classic sunburst only seems better against the deep mahogany finishes on the body of this instrument. This guarantees that it’s eye-catching and stays true to its roots.
Don’t miss out on your chance at owning an amazing acoustic instrument!
Old school meets new school with the beauty of this sunburst dreadnought.
It’s the perfect guitar for your next big recording project or live performance.
Classic and sleek, you’ll never want to set it down and it comes with a hardshell case for protection.
Pros
Pros:
- Orchestra body shape.
- Solid Sitka top.
- Herringbone rosette.
- Ebony fingerboard.
- Ivoroid binding.
- Hardshell case included.
Cons
Cons:
- Could be outside of people’s budget.
Best Parlor Acoustic Guitar
Eastman E10P Parlor Acoustic Guitar
The Eastman E10P Parlor Acoustic Guitar is the perfect instrument for guitar player.
This parlor acoustic guitar is hand-crafted for exceptional sound quality and playability.
It features a solid Adirondack spruce top for superior tone projection, mahogany back and sides for a warm, balanced sound, and an ebony fretboard for added elegance and precision.
The slotted peghead with carved diamond volute adds a touch of class to this already outstanding guitar.
For the ultimate in performance and playability, the Eastman E10P is a perfect choice.
The 2-way adjustable truss rod ensures perfect neck alignment.
This guitar features a solid spruce top for superior tone projection and mahogany back and sides for a warm, balanced sound.
The ebony fretboard and bridge add elegance and precision.
Pros
Pros:
- Solid Adirondack Top.
- Mahogany back.
- Ebony fretboard and bridge.
- 2-way adjustable truss.
- Perfect for players of all levels.
- Parlor model shape.
Cons
Cons:
- Some may not like the Parlor shape.
Best Electric Guitar
Eastman T-386 Classic
Eastman’s T-386 model is a beautiful guitar that sounds as good as it looks.
Featuring select tonewoods and a classic finish over maple, this guitar has a rich, versatile sound that will please any musician.
The thin line design makes it comfortable to play, and the versatile pickups from several leading manufacturers make it a versatile performer.
The double Venetian-style cutaway body provides easy access to the upper frets, and the maple laminate top and back/sides provide a bright, crisp tone.
The ivoroid binding on the body, neck, and headstock adds a touch of elegance, and the dual-mounted Kent Armstrong humbuckers deliver a rich, full sound.
Pros
Pros:
- Vintage Hot pickups.
- Ivoroid binding.
- Maple laminate top and double-cutaway design.
- Dual-mounted humbuckers.
- 2-point tremolo system.
- Easy on the hand neck.
Cons
Cons:
- Electronics may need an eventual upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Eastman guitars made?
Eastman’s facility is located in Beijing, China where they are handcrafted.
In the increasingly global economy, this is an important distinction.
Are Eastman guitars any good?
Eastman guitars are a great value for what you pay.
These affordable and stylish instruments come at a reasonable price that is not the least expensive, but still worth it!
Do Eastman guitars hold their value?
Yes, they do in that it has a voice regardless of the size.
The resale value for these instruments is also generally proportionate to their original price, making them great investments.
Conclusion
There are a lot of guitarists out there who have been playing for years and still don’t know what the best guitar is. It’s understandable.
With so many different brands making guitars these days, it can be hard to find one that will suit your needs without spending hours looking at reviews.
Eastman guitars are of quality that are easy to play.
The sound is rich and full, the intonation is perfect and they have a beautiful finish.
These guitars come at a more affordable price than Taylor or Martin.
They also give you great quality and make it easy to buy one for yourself or someone else!
These guitars are an investment.
They aren’t the least expensive out there so keep that in mind when you’re researching guitars.
However, we were very impressed with the quality and overall construction, ease of play, and tone of these guitars.
We appreciate the passion that the company has and you can tell that in the quality of these products.
Thank you for taking the time to read this Eastman Guitars Review.
Remember to always HAVE FUN!
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Eastman 1m1 satin finish