D'Angelico Guitars: Are They Any Good?

Hey guitar enthusiasts! Ever found yourself gazing longingly at a sleek, art deco-inspired guitar, maybe with a distinct headstock and a certain je ne sais quoi? Chances are, you were looking at a D'Angelico. These guitars have a rich history, a striking aesthetic, and a reputation that precedes them. But the big question remains: are D'Angelico guitars any good? And are they worth the investment? Let's dive in and break down everything you need to know, from their history to their playability and sound.

The History of D'Angelico Guitars

To truly understand D'Angelico guitars, we need to rewind the clock. The story begins with John D'Angelico, an Italian-American luthier who set up shop in New York City back in the 1930s. He initially built archtop guitars, which were the workhorses of jazz musicians during that era. D'Angelico's craftsmanship quickly earned him a reputation for excellence. His guitars were prized for their beautiful tone, meticulous construction, and the sheer artistry of their design. The Art Deco influence was strong, giving these instruments a distinctive look that still resonates today. These guitars were a symbol of quality, and were highly sought after by some of the most influential musicians of their day.

During World War II, the availability of materials became a challenge, and D'Angelico only produced a limited number of guitars. Sadly, John D'Angelico passed away in 1964, leaving behind a legacy of incredible instruments. The original D'Angelico guitars, built by John himself, are highly collectible and can fetch prices that make your jaw drop! They are considered some of the finest examples of American guitar making. The company, as it existed, didn't survive his passing.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and the D'Angelico name was revived. The company was resurrected, and began producing guitars once again, paying homage to the original designs. The modern D'Angelico guitars are built with the same aesthetic in mind, and they aim to capture the feel and sound of the vintage instruments. This revival has brought D'Angelico guitars back into the spotlight, making them accessible to a new generation of guitarists. These guitars are designed to meet the demands of modern players while staying true to the vintage aesthetic.

Design and Construction: What Makes a D'Angelico Guitar Stand Out?

Alright, let's talk about what makes these guitars visually stunning and how they're put together. First off, the aesthetics are a major selling point. D'Angelico guitars boast that signature art deco vibe. Think graceful curves, elegant f-holes, a distinctive headstock shape, and often, beautiful inlays. They’re undeniably eye-catching, and they definitely stand out on stage.

Beyond the looks, the construction is pretty impressive. The modern D'Angelico guitars are typically made with a solid spruce top, often paired with a maple back and sides. This combination is common for archtop guitars, contributing to a warm, resonant tone. The neck is usually mahogany, with a rosewood or ebony fingerboard. You'll find a variety of body shapes, from the classic archtop to solid-body electrics. The attention to detail in the construction is evident, from the binding to the finish.

The hardware is also high-quality, with tuners that hold their tune and bridges that enhance the instrument's overall performance. They often incorporate their own designed pickups that bring a balanced tone. The level of craftsmanship and detail is aimed at giving players a premium experience. The modern company has expanded into a range of guitars, including acoustic guitars, solid-body electrics, and of course, archtops, catering to different playing styles and musical genres.

Playability and Comfort: Are They Easy to Play?

Let's be real, a guitar can look amazing, but if it doesn't play well, it's a no-go. So, are D'Angelico guitars comfortable to play? This really depends on the specific model and your personal preferences, but generally speaking, D'Angelico aims for a comfortable playing experience.

The neck profiles vary depending on the model, but you'll often find a comfortable shape that's not too chunky or too thin. The fretwork is usually well-executed, allowing for smooth and easy fretting. The action (the height of the strings above the frets) is typically set up well out of the box, making them easy to play. If you're coming from a more modern electric guitar, you might find the archtops take a bit of getting used to, as the body can be a bit bulkier. But most players find them comfortable.

For archtops, the scale length (the distance between the nut and the bridge) is a factor in playability. D'Angelico archtops typically have a longer scale length, which can give them a slightly stiffer feel, but also contributes to their rich, resonant tone. Solid-body models tend to feel more like standard electric guitars, making them easy to transition to for many players. Ultimately, playability is subjective. However, D'Angelico does a good job of creating instruments that are comfortable for a wide range of players.

Sound Quality: What Do D'Angelico Guitars Sound Like?

Okay, the moment of truth: what do these guitars sound like? The sound quality is a critical factor for any guitar! The sound of a D'Angelico guitar can vary depending on the model, but here's a general overview.

• Archtops: These guitars are known for their warm, mellow, and resonant tone. They excel in jazz, blues, and other genres where a rich, full sound is desired. The spruce top and maple back and sides contribute to a balanced sound with plenty of sustain. The f-holes add to the acoustic resonance. The pickups in the archtops are often designed to capture the warmth and clarity of the instrument's acoustic properties.
• Solid-Body Electrics: These guitars offer a wider range of tones, from clean and articulate to full-on rock and roll. The pickups are designed to deliver a versatile sound that works well in many different musical contexts. You can get a variety of tones from glassy cleans to high-gain distortion.
• Acoustic Guitars: D'Angelico's acoustic guitars have a clear and balanced tone that can fit many playing styles, including fingerpicking and strumming. The acoustics are designed to provide a rich and full sound, making them suitable for both stage and studio. D'Angelico's acoustic models use a variety of tonewoods and bracing patterns to deliver distinctive sonic characteristics.

Overall, D'Angelico guitars are designed to deliver a high-quality sound that reflects the guitar's aesthetic and intended musical style. They are versatile instruments that can be used in a variety of musical settings.

Are D'Angelico Guitars Worth the Money?

Let's get down to the bottom line: are D'Angelico guitars worth the price? They aren’t the cheapest guitars on the market. D'Angelico guitars generally fall into the mid to high price range. So, whether they are worth the money is a personal decision that depends on your budget, playing style, and what you’re looking for in a guitar.

• Pros: They offer outstanding aesthetics, with a beautiful art deco design that's hard to beat. The construction and materials are generally high-quality, contributing to excellent sound and playability. The brand has a strong reputation and heritage, making them desirable instruments. The modern versions are reliable and well-made.
• Cons: The price point can be a barrier for some. They might not be the best choice for absolute beginners, as there are more affordable options available. The archtops can take a little getting used to.

If you value aesthetics, build quality, and a distinctive sound, and if you can afford the price, then D'Angelico guitars are definitely worth considering. They're a great investment for players who want a premium instrument that looks, sounds, and feels fantastic. However, if you're on a tighter budget, there are plenty of other excellent guitars available that may be a better fit.

D'Angelico vs. Other Brands: How Do They Stack Up?

It's always helpful to compare brands when you're shopping for a guitar. How do D'Angelico guitars compare to the competition? Here's a quick look at how they stack up against some other popular brands.

• Compared to Gibson: Gibson is a legendary brand with a long history in the guitar world. While both brands offer high-quality instruments, Gibson guitars often have a more aggressive and raw tone, while D'Angelico has a more refined and elegant sound. D'Angelico guitars may have a more premium feel, but Gibson is recognized for its iconic sound.
• Compared to Gretsch: Gretsch guitars are known for their distinctive look and sound, especially in rockabilly and country music. D'Angelico guitars can have a similar vintage vibe, but they lean more towards a jazz and art deco aesthetic. Gretsch guitars offer a more unique sound, while D'Angelico can feel more versatile.
• Compared to Ibanez: Ibanez is famous for making guitars that are perfect for shredding and playing metal music. They provide a different playing experience than D'Angelico guitars. D'Angelico is more focused on aesthetics and the jazz aesthetic, while Ibanez is more focused on performance and modern guitar designs.

The Verdict: Are D'Angelico Guitars Any Good?

So, are D'Angelico guitars any good? The answer is a resounding yes! They are beautifully crafted instruments with a rich history, a distinctive aesthetic, and a high-quality sound. If you're looking for a guitar that stands out from the crowd and offers a premium playing experience, D'Angelico is an excellent choice.

However, the best guitar for you ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, playing style, and the kind of music you play. If you're a jazz player or someone who appreciates vintage aesthetics and a warm, resonant tone, then a D'Angelico guitar is definitely worth checking out.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try one out for yourself. Visit a local guitar store, get your hands on a D'Angelico, and see if it speaks to you. Happy playing!