Deering: Golden Era

Submitted by Jimsong56 on 11/7/2011

Where Purchased: Bucks County Folk Music

Year Purchased: 2011
Price Paid: 3200 ($US)

Sound

Was initially interested in the Maple Blossom, but after some discussion with Karl Dietrichs and my desire for the fuller bass sound, we settled on the GE with it's deeper resonator.

With only a modification in the use of picks, I am able to go from a volume of 10 to max out at 11 - Oh what fun that is.

Sound Rating: 10

Setup

All set up was done to my specifications and desired sound.
Was able to get 3 railroad spikes installed at the outset so as not to have to worry about it later. Bucks County Folk Music Shop did an outstanding job.

Setup Rating: 9

Appearance

What could be said about the maple and finishes. Looks beautiful BUT sounds even more beautiful No flaws in either the inlays, fret work or woodwork. As wonderful as is expected at this price.

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

Hardware is substantial. Finishes are well presented. It is a dependable machine and I would not be concerned about needing a back up machine for my efforts.

Reliability Rating: 10

Customer Service

Life time warranty for original owner. Will I ever need it, maybe, knowing that Deering stands behind its work is a comfort. I maintain an annual service agreement with my luthier, at least for the first year, for all the "little things" that are not warranty issues.

Customer Service: 10

Components

Tuning pegs are top notch. Since I have only had my GE since August, 2011, I have not had to replace either a bridge or the strings, but I am sure that the change in weather as we enter the winter months here in the Mid-Atlantic may require some "tweaking" But no parts are weak or cheap.

Components Rating: 10

Overall Comments

Overall, I am very satisfied with my investment. Like any GOOD instrument , she takes time to warm up on some days, but she is hard to put down, that is for sure.

Overall Rating: 10