Tacoma 'Jazz King' AJF22C

[Archie]

Hi All

I recently purchased this guitar. I'd heard the whisperings on the Tacoma grape vine over the years. A company that punched above its weight; an upstart in a legacy field. Their connection to Gruhn; the private forest etc... The usual things that generate classic Archtop lore.
Their story is interesting, I can't deny it and a brief look on wiki, details their (Tacoma's) endeavours and mission statement. Noble stuff!

When by pure chance I stumbled across this example, I decided to give it a go and I’m glad I did.
The guitar has a remarkable acoustic voice. Incredibly rich and deep bass with strong trebles. The higher mids are a little lacking but I’m putting that down to an unwound G and a slight issue with the corresponding bridge, or nut slot.

I can’t wait to put some bronzes on this thing and see how far I can push it. The pickup is an afterthought and trying to amplify this would be a waste of time.

I'll take some studio pics and do a proper sound recording tomorrow evening but for now, here's a rough iPhone video, of me butchering part of Julian Lages "Woodside Waltz'.

[Sam Sherry]

I recently purchased this guitar. I'd heard the whisperings on the Tacoma grape vine over the years. A company that punched above its weight; an upstart in a legacy field. Their connection to Gruhn; the private forest etc... The usual things that generate classic Archtop lore.

The guitar has a remarkable acoustic voice. Incredibly rich and deep bass with strong trebles. The higher mids are a little lacking but I’m putting that down to an unwound G and a slight issue with the corresponding bridge, or nut slot.

Congrats. That is a lovely example of a fascinating instrument and your playing brings it to life.

I've owned a couple. At one point I was down to one guitar and my AFJ-22 set-neck was that one.

The Tacoma AJ is pretty much then only modestly-priced entry-point into the offset-soundhole world of Ribbecke, Parker and Andersen.
It's a cool piece on its own and has a lot to teach -- many happy returns!

[Archie]

Congrats. That is a lovely example of a fascinating instrument and your playing brings it to life.

I've owned a couple. At one point I was down to one guitar and my AFJ-22 set-neck was that one.

The Tacoma AJ is pretty much then only modestly-priced entry-point into the offset-soundhole world of Ribbecke, Parker and Andersen.
It's a cool piece on its own and has a lot to teach -- many happy returns!

Hi Sam.

I can see exactly where you're coming from. I'm having a lot of fun with it.
I like your comment about the 'offset-soundhole world' and this being a good entry point.

It seems to be more of a flat top, hybrid sound. I'm currently using 'half wounds' but will switch over to full bronze.

I can't believe how deep and rich the bass sounds, considering it's not even a full depth body. It sounds like it's mic'd up when you first hit the bass string. That must be the soundhole.

P.s I've always wanted a Ribbecke.

[mr. beaumont]

Sounds great. I'd love to stumble upon one of these in person someday.

[John A.]

I I remember playing one of those when they were still being made and really digging it. Should’ve bought it. Congrats on a cool score.

[Archie]

Some better pics.

Everything looks great on my iPhone, that is until I upload it onto my iMac and realise I should have cleaned the guitar

This is my first attempt at making a flashy 'YouTube product video'. It's a bit off in places but a start.

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[matthewlevy]

Here is one I'm selling on Reverb. Bendotto neck humbucker pickup. Deep rich woody and very acoustical airy sound.

Tacoma Archtop Jazz Guitar AJF22C 1999 - Satin | Reverb

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