Tama Guitar

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Jules N
Date: 10 Jun 21 - 06:35 AM

I have a TAMA TG 80, with the TGs acknowledged as a superb top-end series of TAMAs built '77 - '79.I bought it in '79 at the age of 16 in Tasmania after working my butt off for a couple of weeks hay-baling. It was $570 down from $750. A lot of money then, but it was, and still is, the most beautiful guitar that I've played. Solid mahogany body, ebony fretboard, spectacular wood binding, abalone and bone. Just stunning. Truly a work of art and rings like a bell. Sold it to an ex-girlfriend in the late 80s on the condition that if she ever sold it, it would be to me. Found out later that she had hocked it for $40!I was devastated. I have missed that guitar terribly, buying a still-beautiful TK 50 for $200 about 10 years ago to try to cheer myself up...

Well, looking online two days ago, found a TG 80...yes, my old guitar! Incredibly, it had been found by a music shop guy in the same interstate hock (pawn) shop after sitting in a back room, dirty, but still in its case for more than 30 years...and under the dirt, brilliant condition still. It'll be back in my hot little hands in three weeks' time - can't wait!!

And now I have two TAMAs :)

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Rick Matei
Date: 25 Feb 16 - 10:55 AM

I have a 1974 Tama 3550 classical c/w the original case for sale. a couple of scratches and dings on the binding edges but a great player
Asking 750 CND plus shipping charges. email [e-mail]. Guitar in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Kevin Vallee
Date: 28 Nov 14 - 08:45 PM

I bought mine in New Zealand in 1977. It had the brass "Ray Durant" plaque covering the abalone inlaid TAMA on the head. I wonder if they did that to get around some import issues or something as they were having copyright issues with Martin guitars. I paid $238.00 NZ for it and while I considered selling it as I could use the grand plus I cannot part with it. An exceptionally beautiful guitar. I have passed it on to my oldest son asking him to "keep it in the family".

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Brett
Date: 31 Jul 13 - 07:09 AM

I have a Tama 3650-12 on ebay right now
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=321176100581

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 08:13 PM

It also had the unusual feature of geared tuners - you could set them up for open tunings and it would move smoothly between the two settings. I've only seen that kind of tuner on Banjoes.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Jayne Lloyd Guitar Teacher
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 08:09 PM

My first 'professional instrument' was a Tama - it cost me £995 in 1981. It had a sitka top, solid rosewood back and sides and snoflake and daisy inlays. Around 25 years later I stupidly gave it to the local guitar shop to have a pick up put in, with strict instructions not to alter the neck or set up in any way. The stupid idiot who put the pick up in 'gave the truss rod just a tweak to bring the bass end up'. AT 6am next morning I was screaming at him down the phone as the truss rod had come out of its seating and was trying to break through the beautiful fretboard.

A local lutheir repaired it but it was never the same again. I purchased an awesome replacement from the luthier, which I still have, I gave the Tama in part ex. I would still be playing it. At the time, I remember the lovely guitarist from Fairport Convention had one exactly the same as mine (he replaced it with a Santa Cruz) and the Spinners had a couple of similar ones, (with plain inlays) a six and a twelve string. I think Dave Paskett had one of the earlier ones and Derek Brimstone has already been mentioned.

How I wish I had that guitar now x x x

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Alcide
Date: 30 Jan 12 - 08:28 AM

Hi I'm very glad to have found this site on Tama Guitars
mine is A TM 200 Production 1977 I baught about 15 Years ago $550.00 Canadian with the case Its still in very good shape I once tried A Martin my Instructor had
I wont say Mine was better but I taught mine was as good.
I believe Mine is Spruce Top Jacaranda Back & side with Ebony finger board. If one of You know this to be diffrent I would like to know.
I would not sell Mine But I would like to know its Worth.
Again thanks for all the info. Apreciated

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,JGwinkler
Date: 07 Jan 12 - 08:07 PM

I just bought a Tama @ a thrift store for $16 USD. Model # is 6920, under the neck it has a number too 7296P or 3296P. I don't know anything about it. The bridge looks like its coming unglued a bit.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,tanolina
Date: 06 Jan 12 - 09:53 PM

I bought my TAMA TM105 (1977?) from the original owner in 1983. Have been trying to locate 2 TAMA buttons that cover the machine head gears.Approx. 14mm diameter. Anyone know where I could get hold of any.(Moral of the exercise is dont lend your TAMA). Thanks AL.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 02 Nov 11 - 02:25 PM

I have a RARE and hard to find - TAMA 3563 - Top of the line - Solid top - Tree of Life inlay

I found it at a yard sale 17 years ago and they guy wanted to buy a classical guitar instead. I had a cheap classical which I traded straight across. I didnt know anything about guitars then and the TAMA wanst set up right and didnt stay in tune so I stuck in in the closet for 16 years. I was looking to buy a new guitar (Taylor or Larivee) last year and decided I should check out the, what I thought, was a piece of crap in the closet. After doing the research I found out I had an incredible instrument collecting dust. I took it to a luthier who set it up and all I can say is WOW! What a gem. [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Guest, RD
Date: 16 Sep 11 - 08:37 PM

Have a Tama TG-80 I'm thinking of selling. Great shape, been my main player for years, has opened up awesomely. Any idea what I might be able to sell it for?

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,KB
Date: 14 Sep 11 - 03:46 PM

I have a TAMA classic guitar, purchased in 73 or so -- still have the brochure. cedar top, rosewood back and sides and no idea what the neck is made of. Used it for years - nice sound. Now use it as back up having just made my first guitar purchase since 73!!   Invested in a Esteve/Manuel Adalid 9C/B.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,C. J. Krieger
Date: 03 Aug 11 - 12:22 AM

I bought a TAMA around 1972 (which I still have today) It is the sweetest sounding guitar you've ever heard that has melowed over the years. Personally, I wouldn't trade it for a Martin or Guild... it has been with me through thick & thin and is in excellent condition. It came with a lifetime warentee which I have used once around 1980... no problems. A fine guitar with fine workmanship. If you can get your hands on one (an old one) don't pass it up.
Best
CJ

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Nick Mullinar
Date: 15 Jun 11 - 03:51 PM

HELLO TAMA FANS!

I have an original TAMA 3555 in great condition (with original hard-case) that I'm willing to part ways with for the right price!

I would be more than happy to provide more information and pictures if any of you are interested, which I'm hoping that you will be! I'm based in the UK.

Please contact me by email if you would like to find out more....

Nick Mullinar, [e-mail].

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Guest, Ben
Date: 05 May 11 - 05:02 AM

I recently had a Tama 3651 I think and it was a stunning guitar. I foolishly sold it and I'm now on the hunt for another one whether it be that model or otherwise.

I don't suppose anyone has one for sale do they?

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Miranda
Date: 27 Mar 11 - 10:05 AM

I have got a left-handed TAMA 3560! It was my sister's and it was only given to me yesterday. I'm trying to find out the history of it so would welcome any info.

Thanks,

Miranda

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: RogerD
Date: 17 Feb 11 - 05:45 PM

Thanks to you RJN0519 for above suggestion. Been there, don't find corresponding model or serial number but it's a good work in progress inventory of info. If I can learn more I'll submit it to hufschlag so they can add to the data base. Meanwhile I'm having a good time playing the insturment.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,RJN0519
Date: 11 Feb 11 - 11:31 AM

http://www.hufschlag.info/html/tama_main.html
go to the above website and you will see the model yours is and the serial numbers that coincide with them.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: RogerD
Date: 26 Jan 11 - 02:44 PM

Can anyone help me identify a model number 3562 ? I bought this new in about 1972 ? , looks like a D-28, has ss on the headstock alongside the vertical TAMA. Spruce top, rosewood sides, I have to say it sounds brighter then my Martin D-28. Really rings out. I put it aside when I got my "real" Martin in 1989 but having brought it out of the closet, literally, all these years later I put a new set of strings on it and it's red hot! So I see here mention of the model 3560- is this 3562 known to anyone. The serial number is 73112747. RogerD

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,billy9472
Date: 10 Sep 10 - 07:49 AM

Have anyone know about Ray Durant 3558s 1974 I got one yesterday its surprising very good condition.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 07 Sep 10 - 03:46 PM

Hey, I own a very rare Tama 3560 12-String guitar. I am the original owner. Actually my dad bought it for himself and decided his fingers were to short to play it and gave it to me. It is in very good condition and is gorgeous. Does anyone know what it is worth?

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,coxen
Date: 14 Jul 10 - 08:44 PM

I have a Tama 3550p that I bought in 1969. It is like new w/ org case,
any idea what it is worth to sell.
[e-mail]

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,erik
Date: 28 May 10 - 11:24 AM

There is a Tama 3553 for sale on Ebay. Auction will close, I think, on June 1. If you want a Tama, go to Ebay! Tama's are fantastic guitars. Just like the seller said, "Tama eats Martins and Taylors for breakfast!"

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,tom lee in florida
Date: 25 May 10 - 11:23 AM

I have a 3558, a 3571 and my origanl one, the 3555. I love them and would starve before i would sell one. The 3571 has the sweetest tone you can imagine. loud and clear, especially the overtones in the highs. sweet.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,DRZ
Date: 12 May 10 - 05:51 PM

Back in the 70's my mother purchased a new Tama 3570 acoustic for me when I was very young. I regret not taking advantage of my guitar skills back then and only played it for a short time. It has sat pretty much idle for most of the past 30 years, occasionally taking it out and I am now starting to play again. This guitar is beautiful and has significant quality not found in todays guitars. I would never part with it and you will not find anything like it.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Bob W. Tennessee
Date: 07 May 10 - 04:21 PM

I purchased my Tama 3560 February 1976.
At that time the Martin D-45 sold for $3800 - $4000.
I gave $500.00 for the Tama 3560 and wouldn't trade it for a Martin D-45
today.
The Tama is an exact copy of the D-45.
The Tama sounds better and is still in mint condition.
Keep your Tama guitars. Once sold you'll probably never get another one.
Martins are built everyday. The Tama guitar is a rare piece of history.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar 3558 S
From: GUEST,munijoy
Date: 01 May 10 - 08:48 PM

i have a Tama 3558 S with serial number 73040660 ( or maybe the last number is a o ) I may want to sell with original hard case any idea of price. can send pictures email [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,John P
Date: 28 Apr 10 - 02:40 PM

Murray MacLeod, I do play Martins (I have 4 of them) but also have a slightly modified TAMA 3560 with real abalone pearl inlay on the top, back and sides. I don't know if I'm the John P you're thinking of, but I do live in Goldsboro, NC. Born and raised here.

[e-mail]

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 21 Apr 10 - 09:36 PM

I have a Tama 3558 for sale if anyone is interested. Not a museum piece, just has some scratches/scuffs. Neck is straight, bridge secure to top, frets are in great shape, very nice well made guitar. Asking $550 with hardshell case.

Should put my email address, [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,erik
Date: 14 Apr 10 - 02:40 AM

I used to be a Sigma guy. I have owned at least 10 top notch Martin Sigma (DR7, SDR28H, DM5, etc.,) But I happened to stumble on a Tama TG-80, for a very good price. Since then, I sold all my Sigmas, except for my DR7, just because of its sentimental value. The Tama outgunned all of them. My Tama TG-80 has solid spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides. My buddy who has a Martin D35 is jealous. My Tama has more volume and clarity compared to his D35. He just could not believe it!

To anyone who may not be familiar with Tama guitars, if you see one for sale, buy it!! You surely will not regret. I have yet to find a Tama owner who regrets owning one.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 19 Mar 10 - 10:02 AM

I have a Martin, a baby Fender and the Tama 3561 I bought as a beater.It didnt turn out that way however,I would step over a pile of Martins to get to my 3561. Just that solid deep bass and ringing highs will be enough to convince anyone that this is indeed one of the finest musical instruments ever manufactured. I dont go by what others say or what something costs.Use your ear and you bwill understand that Tamas are priceless.
Phlyonthewall

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Murray MacLeod
Date: 18 Feb 10 - 04:23 AM

....John P ....

couldn't be the John P****, could it ?????

He does play Martins, after all, does he live in Goldsboro NC ?

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,John P
Date: 17 Feb 10 - 09:36 PM

I have a TAMA 3560 I bought from a local music store here in Goldsboro, NC back in the mid 70s. I'm a Martin guy but couldn't resist. Being a replica of a D-45, I sent it to a repair shop and had all the plastic fake pearl taken out and replaced with true abalone pearl from C.F. Martin. It took the guy two years to complete the job.(he said his first and last inlay job of this nature)Even though she isn't a D-45(I hope to get one of those soon along with a D-42), I've used it in public performances and in studio work on several occasions. I have had nothing but compliments on the old girl and plan to keep playing her for many a year to come.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,KerryB
Date: 09 Nov 09 - 10:02 PM

Very interesting reading posts! I am a New Zealander and it is interesting to read the posts and the perceptions of the quality of these guitars as far as guitar brands in general. I have a "tree of life" dreadnought which I bought new from Lewis Eady in Auckland in 1977. I think I paid about $300 odd for it. It has the Tama name in full and Horizontal across the headstock. Full Mother of Pearl inlay, Real Ivory (it has gone yellowy with age) Rosewood sides and back, ebony fretboard...etc etc. a truely beautiful and awesome sounding guitar, anyway back to the ignorance in NZ, About 5 years ago I took my Tama to a music shop for a replacement quote for insuring. They could not give an answer or compare like with like on paper for my insurance. I asked one guitar shop if they had heard of tama guitars and the salesman said yes sure, but his opinion was they were rubbish and not worth insuring! Needless to say I told him he didn't know the difference between a Gibson and a Martin and that,no, its not a guitar made by a drum company! Anyway, now I pretty much keep my Tama in its case and bring it out for the occasional play. it gets better with age and is truely, I feel, a collectors guitar. As with above posts I think there are very few of them around and those that have them, tend to hold on to them. Then again I guess that music shop in my story had the right answer, as I think they are irreplaceable instruments! Keep it up fellow Tama lovers! Kerry.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,redeyebob
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 04:48 PM

I have just started to get interested in finding out a bit more about my old Tama guitar having read a few comments from various owners on a couple of different sites. There appears to be a similar story regarding the arrival of early Tama acoustics in New Zealand in the 1970's badged as Ray Durant models. I bought mine in 1973/74 from an Auckland music store called Lewis Eady Ltd. It cost me $69 and was offered at that price as it was part of a trial shipment of Ray Durant guitars and was considered a 'sample'. I've checked photos of different models on the listed official Tama site and mine appears to be a 3555 with a serial number of either T2120294 or 72120294, the first letter/numeral being blurred. My understanding of the badging situation is that these are Tama guitars, rebadged by a music importing company based in France and distributed around the world. Rebadging , whilst perhaps not common in those days is certainly done on a massive scale today with instruments manufactured in China and elsewhere and may well have been undertaken in order to circumvent import restrictions which were prevalent around the world in the 70's.
My Tama, which I have owned for 35 or so years, also has paua (abalone) inserts in the fingerboard and is still my favourite acoustic. I know of one other local owner but there may well be many more.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 06 Sep 09 - 10:21 AM

Bill,
Well, I just bought a Tama TW-07 from a music shop in Ohio that buys used instruments. I paid $410 even though I knew it had some problems. I got it Friday and when I took off the old strings the nut fell off, ok, not a major problem. It also had a crack along one side where the neck joins the body but it seems to have been properly repaired. I took it to a local guitar shop and the guy looked at if for about 10 seconds and said "get your money back" he saw a little glue on the back where the neck is joined and told me it wasn't factory glue. The guitar stays in tune and the sound is beautiful. It has almost no nicks or scratches but a couple of tuners are replaced with ping. I have 2 more days to send it back but I am afraid I may never find another one, even in this shape. I bought a 3561 in 1974 and it's in perfect shape and I just wanted another Tama. Any suggestions? I really want to keep it.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Jul 09 - 11:37 AM

SHK

I have had a Tama 3558 P for many years. Would really like to know value. Not used much at all. Would like to sell

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Nick Brooker
Date: 10 May 09 - 07:05 PM

I have a Tama 3560 which I bought new in 1978 for £250.
Over the years it has matured into a truly beautiful instrument. I wouldn't sell it at any price. I have played the Martin D45 of which it is a replica and I prefer the Tama by miles. It has a much sweeter tone. It is irreplaceable and to buy a guitar of anything like the quality of the Tama would probably cost around £2,000. I use it constantly. I love playing it.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Gardawg
Date: 19 Apr 09 - 11:42 AM

Tama guitars are one of the best kept secrets in acoustic/classical guitars from the 1970's! My first one was bought at a pawn shop for $30.00 canadian a couple years ago. It's a mod# 3561 herringbone from 1974. I'm a lefty, so I had a new bridge, saddle, and nut installed. It sounds amazing with martin strings and keeps in tune for very long periods of time. Just bought a classical Tama #3550 yesterday. Sounds really rich with a nice tone.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Dave in DC
Date: 18 Apr 09 - 12:52 PM

I bought one the summer after my freshman year in college (August 1977), mainly because my hero at the time, Neil Young, played one (see "Comes a Time" album cover) and they were way more affordable than Guilds and Martins. Model 3561, s/n 41281643, a "New Old Stock" from 1974. The local music shop didn't seem to know much about them. Paid around $275, a lot of money for a near-minimum wage restaurant worker. I still have it and it's in nearly pristine condition and has aged beautifully. Not as much bass as my Taylor 410, but brighter mids and trebles, and sustain that'll last until next Tuesday. Excellent build quality; we seem to only now be discovering how good the Japanese were at building wooden instruments in the '70s. I almost sold it 10 years ago when I bought the Taylor, but the LMS was only offering $100 for it so I kept it. One of the best decisions I ever made! If you can get one for under $1000 it would be a screaming bargain. Nothing can touch it in that price range. Action, tone, sustain, and balance are superb.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST, Sminky
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 09:01 AM

Information about Tama guitars.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Arve
Date: 14 Apr 09 - 02:14 PM

I bought a Tama 3553M new in 1974. This was my first guitar. I sold it in 1987. I now own many other guitars like Martin, National, Takamine, Ibanez, Dobro and several others, but I really regret selling the Tama. For my 50th birthday my son managed to buy back the same guitar and I got it for my birthday. That was really great, there´s something about the first guitar you´ve owned.
So to my question. It´s spruce and rosewood, but does anyone know what the M in the modelnumber/name stands for?

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Aj
Date: 11 Mar 09 - 08:38 AM

i agree with robyn ,maybe we dont know how fortunate we are in new zealand,i paid $35.00 nz for a Tama 3565,it was in a second hand shop ,its had a hard life ,lots of scratches and dents,screwed and glued , 5 strings on it when i bought it ,the sound is absolutely perfect,the sustain and vibrato of each chord played is crystal clear warm and rich ,cant wait to hear what it sounds like with all 6 strings ! these certainly are special guitars !

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,jump
Date: 14 Feb 09 - 05:51 PM

Hi, just bought a Tama TM 105, has the tree of life on the neck, but not on the headstock.
It's in pretty good condition, paid $325 Canadian. The sound is wonderful. Seems to be solid wood throughout. Maybe someone here has more info on this particular model.

Thanks

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Bob Long
Date: 22 Oct 08 - 03:32 PM

Chelsea S................Do you still have the guitar for sale? Contact me at [e-mail]

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Whaler
Date: 17 Oct 08 - 01:47 PM

I am looking for a Tama guitar. Does anyone have one for sale in the New York City area.

If so please email me at [e-mail]

Thanks

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,andrew
Date: 15 Oct 08 - 08:52 AM

i have a tama tg 80-12
german spruce, solid mahogany, 1977-79
made in japan
how much would that be worth,
im looking to sell it

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Bill
Date: 14 Oct 08 - 11:13 PM

I did not put the right model number from my Tama which is a 3561 that I bought in 1974. I have kept it 34 years and it's staying with me till the end. I love this guitar.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Chelsea S.
Date: 04 Oct 08 - 08:40 PM

I have a Tama model #3558 serial#50381130. Anyone know what it's worth and the best place to sell it? I contacted Juergen's site, but I wish the guestbook was in English--I'm not sure if I'm registered.
Thanks.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Mike Melbourne Australia
Date: 08 Aug 08 - 09:04 AM

Hi .wasnt aware of these till last week but have interest in the early Japanese acoustics,that is to say once they began producing better quality products only we didn't know back then.I saw one of these gorgeous models go off on New Zealand :Trademe: this week and thought I like this I'll wait and have a go.Forget it!!!Keen punters took it up to $810,even with a good exchange rate thats a seriously good result for the seller.I reckon I'll be aware next time I see one.!

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,guest, david
Date: 15 Jun 08 - 05:25 AM

have a tama tw-09, bought brand new, 1978

we've been around the world several times, my tama and i, and despite the battering it has sustained it still plays briliantly and suits me fine

if you've got one - hang onto it, or if you don't want it, let me know and i'll give it a good, loving home

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Beaz750
Date: 18 Apr 08 - 12:52 AM

And I have a TAMA.   Found in a thrift store for $175 about a year ago. It looks like a Martin D-45. with abaloney inlay in the neck and around all sides. Sounds wonderful...the neck needed ajusting but there was something not right with the trussrod. Took it to Fatdog in Berkeley and in less than 10 minutes he said "you don't know how good of a guitar this is" more that 8 times (he sold them in the 70's)...I knew I had a winner.   New truss rod and I now have a beautiful Tama 3558-S. Not a Martin D-45 but soooooo close. I will exchange pics if anyone is interested...
Did I say matching Brazilian rosewood????

[e-mail]

Jerry

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,GUEST, April C.
Date: 13 Feb 08 - 12:44 PM

Hi, I know nothing about guitars. I bought one in 2003 to take guitar lessons, but didn't follow through. It's a Tama in perfect condition to my eyes. There are 3 sets of numbers inside. 74041160
3548   and 45. I am looking to sell it and need some information about the value of it. I can find hardly anything about Tamas. A little help please? Thanks

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Stuart
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 07:17 AM

Well guys the Tree of Life has a new home now.She was shipped off to Paris,France.Still have the older 3566 tho she is a real delight.She has served me well and never had a problem with her.I have replaced the nut and bridge with a tusq replacement.The neck is as true as the day she was made.She sounds better than most guitars I have heard.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Steve M.
Date: 24 Jan 08 - 08:44 AM

I have an oldie plane jane...wouldn't trade it for the world. Bought it in the seventies new and have been playing it ever since. Not sure of the model...but the sound has only gotten better. Can put it away for a couple of months and then pick it up and it is still in tune!

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Stuart
Date: 10 Jan 08 - 01:02 PM

I have two Tama guitars,they were well built.One is a 3566 model.The other is the top of the range 3563 tree of life.They are both around the same vintage being 74-76.They are great guitars,I believe that Slim Whitman used one for many years.
[e-mail]

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Guest, Kirk, FL
Date: 20 Nov 07 - 11:26 PM

To: Guest, Wenny, N.Y.: Wenny did you sell your guitar?? What model is it??

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Matt Snowball
Date: 17 Nov 07 - 07:34 PM

I have a TAMA 3555 that my father bought new in the 70s. It's been on loan to me for the past 20 years. It sounds fantastic and I wouldn't change it for any Gibson , Martin, or Taylor. So bright & full.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Ghazza in NZ
Date: 06 Aug 07 - 06:34 AM

Hey all....

I have just recieved a gift from a friend an old guitar, dust covered, broken strings and dull looking... but now that i have cleaned and polished her up, had new strings and fully tuned it she is a very rich toned amazing sounding TAMA Guitar!!! The shop that tuned it where amazed also at the sound she produces!!! ...it appears to be very well built with alot of 'Mother of Pearl' and 'Paua' featured into the craftsmanship, also beautiful rich graining wood which i think is Rosewood on the back, sides and fingerboard.

The label on it reads....
Ray Durant LUTHIER 'Exact Replica' Dreadnought 1970 and it also has the following addresses on label...
Ray Durant Ste, 12 Rue La Vieuville, Paris 12e, France
Durant Sales Inc. 302 4TH AVE. NEW YORK, NY
Inside the guitar is stamped 3558P and also TAMA, SEISAKUSHO CO. AICHI, JAPAN.

What i thought was just a dirty old guitar that i didnt know was worth fixing or not for me to learn to play on seems to be a peice of precision instruments that has its own high place in history...

Cheers and looking forward to playing this little classic acoustic even more so now!!!!

Ghazza

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Juergen
Date: 15 Jun 07 - 04:29 AM

Hello to you all. If you need informations about your TAMA guitar please have a look at my site http://freenet-homepage.de/hufschlag
I have collected a lot of information and will add some more from time to time.

Be happy with your TAMA!

Juergen

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Grimmy
Date: 23 May 07 - 08:50 AM

Wenny, I recommend you try this site.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Wenny, NY
Date: 22 May 07 - 03:08 PM

I had bought in 1971 Tama (Japan) acoustic steel string price then apx $1000.00. It is in excellent shape and does have a liftime guarantee. I want to sell this guitar. Any ideas what my Tama is worth? I cant find anything for price listing online. ThanX

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Lawrence Moore
Date: 24 Apr 07 - 09:37 AM

Hi Everyone,
Well I don't know if my 'new' (very old) guitar is a TAMA or not.. It's actually a solid-body electric guitar badges as a Ray Durant, but it looks suspiciously like Vantage brand guitars from the mid '70s. Could it be that Tamas, Vantages and Ray Durants all came from the same Japanese factory (probably Matsumoku) and just had different labels applied? I might have to remove the glued-on Ray Durant label to see what lies beneath.. There are no markings in the body cavities.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Bob Long
Date: 12 Apr 07 - 04:19 PM

I bought my TAMA early in the 70's. I have the 3558S, (which has the full TAMA name on top of the guitar)and it looks as good now as when I first purchased it. The sound is better(in my opinion) because of the aging of the wood. To my discredit I kept her in the case for long periods because she is gorgeous and I wanted her to stay that way. But the sound, the looks, the neck, the total package made it worth the $800 I paid for it. I have been offered twice that for it and declined the offer. I have added a Barcus-Berry pickup to the bridge and it sounds wonderful through an acoustic or regular amplifier (I use a Marshall AS-100 and a Peavey Renown). If anybody out there knows how to "read" the serial number please contact me at [e-mail]. Thanx C'YA

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,WillF
Date: 10 Apr 07 - 11:52 AM

I have a Tama 3555p with the P meaning it has a laminate top. I have had it for about eight years but it looks like it has had a rough life as it was a bar band guitar that has seen many Saturday night gigs. It is the guitar I am learning to play on this paast year and my more experienced friends love the tone on this thing. Most of the issues are cosmetic so I will enjoy having this rare instrument. If I was to part with it it would only be to perhaps have a guitar with less scratches. Sound wise it may be tough to compare.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Little Robyn
Date: 12 Feb 07 - 02:37 AM

That should be NZ and Robyn. I should have turned the light on sooner!
Robyn

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Little Robyn
Date: 11 Feb 07 - 01:15 PM

Someone must have brought in a 'job lot' because, for a rare guitar, there were quite a lot in little ol' MZ.
Eobyn

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Kiwi.in.OZ
Date: 11 Feb 07 - 07:00 AM

I also am lucky to have purchased new (in NZ) a Tama guitar in 1974, badged as a Ray Durant. I play it regularly and it continues to amaze me with its exceptional rich tone. Solid spruce top, rosewood back and sides and mother-of-pearl inlay all over. I understand these were a very high quality copy of Martin who sued Tama successfully resulting in the stopping of production.
I would recommend these guitars to anyone fortunate enough to find one.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,megababe
Date: 02 Nov 06 - 05:58 PM

i think tama are shitty. guitars make nioses. i got one that broke as soon as i unwraped it. cool!

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,DK
Date: 02 Nov 06 - 02:57 PM

After much thought I am selling my Tama Guitar, TG-135 (original owner). Info and pics are on Craigs List for New Hampshire. If anyone's interested, please let me know. Thanks, David http://nh.craigslist.org/msg/

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Guest, George
Date: 03 Jun 06 - 08:13 PM

Finally got around to googling Tama. Been happy with the results as I've never known the pedigree of my Tama, TW-07. I bought it new, May 22,1981, from the Sound Hole in Spokane Wa. as a factory second for $295 but it listed for $465. There was a crack on the back that was repaired internally with diamond buttons. It has been a very stable guitar and I had the neck adjusted and action lowered a few years back and it still sounds and plays great. Since it was a second I've not worried about it getting banged up and it has taken the occasional too much beer abuse. I spun my Pinto station wagon once in the snow and the guitar, in a hard case, popped the hatch and ended up out in the road. I'm in Montana at three thirty in the morning and I'm laughing at myself and then this log truck comes by and I'm all scattered out in the road. The driver yells at me in this New York accent to get my ass off the road. Bizarre.

The guitar still plays like the day I bought it if not a little better. I'd like to hear how it sounds miked up though.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Little Robyn
Date: 24 Apr 06 - 05:40 PM

I've just checked my little Tama - the Ray Durant and can't find any model number - just the name.
So I googled the name and found an old Blues/Jazz pianist who died more than 20 years ago.
Are there any other Ray Durants who played guitar?
Why would he have a special model named for him?
It does say 'Japan specially made' on the label but it also suggests Ray Durant was the luthier and his address was in Paris, France and there was a sales/distribution company in New York?????
So did Tama do contract work for other guitar makers?
Robyn

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From:
Date: 22 Apr 06 - 11:15 PM

I have a Tama 3601 which I bought new in 1974. It's very difficult to find any information about this guitar. If anyone has an idea about the value or other information please let me know.......Bill

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From:
Date: 17 Apr 06 - 08:16 PM

Got your back!

http://people.freenet.de/hufschlag/html/tama_main.html

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,John M
Date: 14 Apr 06 - 10:35 PM

I have a Tama TM200 model, that I recieved as a gift from my Mom and Dad I think around 1975. It has the stlized T at the top and tree of life inlay up the neck. It still sounds great but goes out of tune fairly easily. Is anybody out there familiar with this model or does anyone else have one? - would like some more info!!??

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Richard
Date: 08 Feb 06 - 01:58 PM

Third owner of a TM106. Met original owner who says bought in 1980 for what he thought was $800. Was kind enough to give me the original brochure. Still regrets letting it go as has several gutiats since but considers this the best one he everhad. Sound compares favourably to Martins & Gibsons played by friends. Mellow & rich & a joy to play. Also have Yamaha,Fender, Wasburn & Crafter but will never part with the Tama which will be my grandson's some day.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,lefty fred
Date: 02 Feb 06 - 09:54 AM

I think I have the only left handed TAMA 3560 in existance. If anyone knows of another one please post a reply.
                                       FRED

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Alex
Date: 11 Oct 05 - 03:28 AM

go here to see a Tama TG-80-12 on ebay right now

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Tama-TG-80-12-String-Acoustic-Guitar_W0QQitemZ7357098984QQcategoryZ2385QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

first in best dressed

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,David Masterson
Date: 01 Oct 05 - 03:11 PM

HEY Tama players, I have one for you. I have a 12 string that is older than anything metioned so far. My brother gave me this guitar that he bought in Wheatridge Colorado between 1968 and 1970 when we were teenagers. The numbers on the inside are 4990698 and under that number is 3557-12. Rosewood back, light spruce top, mother of pearl, etc.. Not over fancy, just absolutely beautiful, and I am still playing it, stays in tune, and best of all, the sound( as far as my ear goes...) is better than anything I have played in any quitar shop, anywhere, at any price!

I absolutly think this is one of the great guitars ever, and I am delighted to see so many others with Tama guitars. I have told people about mine( I also have a 6 string Tama..TM-107 ...) and the normal response from guitar people is " I don't think Tama ever made guitars!! Well I have two beauties to prove them wrong.

We should have a convention or something for Tama Guitar owners. Get together with each other and " show off our stuff" and play a few tunes together.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Chris
Date: 02 Jun 05 - 01:02 PM

For the past five years I have been the lucky owner of a tama 12 string guitar. My then girl friend/now wife bought this off of her step-dad who was the origonal owner. In the past few years, I have moved more to a classical style of guitar, and haven't picked up my Tama for a long time. Instead of letting it waste away, I want to send it to a good home who will take good care of it.

It is a 3560-12 Rosewood Deluxe mother-of-pearl inlay.

As I said I'm the second owner of the guitar, and it's in great condition. I have taken some pictures of it, and can take more if need be. I'll ship anywhere as long as you pay for it. If you are intersted in this please shoot me an e-mail at spendel gmail dot com. (Sorry don't want spam).

Thanks much,
Chris

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,PB on a cookie diet
Date: 19 May 05 - 10:38 PM

I would think it's 3559 The model number.

the link above you goes to a reference for different models, although there's not much on the 3559 my own TAMA is the 3563 there's a picture on the previously mentioned site and the details are:-


Model 3563

Well-seasoned, finest close-grained genuine solid spruce top

Simulated pearl inlays around the top and sound hole

Hand-shaped mahagony neck for ease in playing

Rich genuine selected, matched Indian rosewood back and sides

Vintage vine designed pearl inlay on highly ebonized fingerboard

Gold plated SMOOTH TUNER machine heads for precise tuning


cheer

PB

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From:
Date: 19 May 05 - 09:38 PM

I have a jam buddy with a killer Tama, plain jane. On the merits of his guitar I started searching ebay. After picking up a nice journeyman BC Rich (a great mahogany / spruce econo D18) and watching a apparently nice, but plain, Tama out of Canada not reach it's reserve several times, I slapped down a $480 max on this other one from a pawn shop with zero feedback and hit the trout stream. Came home that night and I'd bought it for 400, 418 delivered insured!.

It came 2 days ago and it is an incredible guitar. Totally pimped, which I didn't anticipate. Solid rosewood matched sides and back. Spruce top. Mahogany neck. Now for the bling: Rosewood laminate headstock veneer with an "S" either side of the "T" in the vertical "TAMA" on the headstock - all lettering in MOP or Abalone. Tortoise shell truss rod cover. Black plastic pickguard. MOP / Aba binding EVERYWHERE: Around the soundhole, neck butt, both sides of every 90 degree seam on the body, top, back and sides. Rosewood board with MOP / Aba parallelogram markers, appears to be ivory bound.

Virtually unplayed. Incredibly bright, loud, sustained and balanced, with low, fast and buzz free action. It has either 8559 or 3559 stamped inside on the neck butt, and a serial number on the brace north of the sound hole.

I have an old Martin I bought new, a CAGuitars x body, a handbuilt Applegate, #15, (James Olson protege) - some nice guitars, and I've played some other very expensive units and this guitar compares no excuses. It's a $2000 - 3000 plus guitar. Name your price type deal.

I sure would like to chat with other Tama owners and learn more about these great axes and would appreciate any info on this one. Thanks

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: PennyBlack
Date: 24 Feb 05 - 09:48 PM

TAMA - clicky thingy

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Laurie
Date: 23 Feb 05 - 09:53 PM

Wonderful to find discussion on Tama guitars. I believe the later Tamas circa 77-78 are all solid wood, beautiful tone.

Tama had some info on their website a few years ago but took it down, I had downloaded it but have lost the copy. I beleive they stopped making them because of legal difficulties being that they are supposedly a Martin replica.

I bought mine (first guitar) in 1988 second hand for NZ$400. It has aged beautifully, the top is now a deep golden orange. Rosewood bookmatched back with inlaid centre strip, rosewood sides, herringbone binding, just stunning. I think mine is a 3567, I will have to check. Havent played it for a year or so.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From:
Date: 13 Feb 05 - 03:12 PM

I have a 3558S which I bought at the Frankfurt Music Fair 1975. It was one of ten exhibition models they had at the booth and I paid 1200 DM including the original hard case. For the poor student I was at that time a lot of money but it was a really good investment. The guitar accompanied me for many years and I still play it today. It looks great although it has some minor reminders of a long life. As my ears get worse its difficult to evaluate but I think it sounds better than ever. It carries the serial no. T304D690.

I'm getting into nylon guitars now since my finger joints get painful when I play heavy steel strings.
Should somebody be seriously interested and make me a good offer I might consider to sell the Tama guitar. Well, at least I'd send you a photo.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Guest - RWW
Date: 04 Jan 05 - 02:03 AM

I've had a Tama 3568 for about 30 years. Bought it new in early 70s for $625 Canadian. It is a lovely instrument, (just been messing about for the last half hour or so on it.) It plays beautifully with a great neck. The tone is gorgeous, brilliant and rich. The workmanship is excellent. No laminate, solid hardwood throughout. Mine has the tree of life up the neck, and herringbone inlay around the outside and soundhole. I have never played another acoustic I thought was better, and I looked around for a while before settling on it.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Little Robyn
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 05:01 PM

I have one of those - I understand the company made a few lines with names of guitarists (so who is/was Ray Durant?) and that they made about 100 of each model.
I paid about $100(NZ) for mine, second-hand, about 1978.
Mine is the small size - possibly like a Martin 00, but it's not sounding so good at present. Maybe a new set of strings?
Robyn

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Dan Tohill
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 04:57 AM

So much dicussion about Tama guitars its great. I saw on e in a shop about 15 years ago and was really impressed, it had a brass "Ray Durant" badge on the headstock, actutally covering the Tama logo, not sure what this was all about. Well I finally got to own one when one came up on an Auction site late last year. It has a screw hole either side on the Tama logo and Ray Durant, Luthier inside the sound hole printed on the label. So it probably also had the brass badge on the headstock. Sounds amazing I keep it at work. If you can find one I'd highly recommend buying it.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Dan Tohjill
Date: 03 Jan 05 - 04:49 AM

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From:
Date: 29 Dec 04 - 03:07 PM

I've got a Tama 3560s, it was the top of the line when I bought it back in 1973. Its like a Martin D45 and sounds equally as good. I wouldnt sell it for less than £1000.00 and I have been offered it on more than one occasion. No I'm not a chump, I just appreciate a superb guitar when I see one. If you've got one then hang on to it. I have never seen another one of this model although they are out there. They were named after the wife of the guy that owned the Suzuki guitar Company I think. They got into hot water back then because they were a repica rather than just a copy. Sitka spruce top , Jacaranda rosewood back and sides (laminate). Gold plated machines, ebont neck. Just quality built. Happy playing. I also own 3 other Martins, a Lowden and Fylde instruments, but still love my Tama.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: PennyBlack
Date: 17 Dec 04 - 07:56 PM

I'll have to dig mine out again and double check whether its a Model 3563 or the Model 3568! it's been too long since I played it..

It was/is a nice guitar to play though, with a nice balanced sound. Not bad for a drum company - there was a review in the UK guitarist mag about 3 years ago which gave them quite a good review.

PB

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Inükshük
Date: 17 Dec 04 - 06:51 AM

I was poised to buy a Martin a couple of years ago, but this Tama 3566 came up for $250 (Canadian - case included). I scooped it immediately. One of the best deals of my life. Very handsome instrument, great sound, and this one had been played very little, if at all.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 16 Dec 04 - 05:57 PM

I did a session on the Capstick show a few years ago and I remember him telling me that he used to play a Tama when he saw the one I played that day.

I've been playing my Tama for the last 15 years or so. It's been re-fretted once but still sounds as fresh as the day I bought it. It's about time I got my sodding Martin though!!

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,gary brown
Date: 16 Dec 04 - 05:10 PM

i just bought a 3555 today for 150.00 candian - about 120. us
sounds good , plays well . didn't know tama even existed. was looking for a jamming guitar so that my martin wouldn't get beat up.

solid wood top for sure - don't know about back and sides- looks like
rosewood. don,t know if laminate or solid. maybe someone can help me
here.

email [e-mail]

gary

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: PennyBlack
Date: 15 Dec 04 - 02:12 PM

Now that was the site I'd lost!

PB

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Dec 04 - 10:34 AM

I have the best TAMA link I could find with picture from what appears to be Tama's sales brochure with wood description and the like. the ads are in english but the sight is in germAN. click guitarren and then Tama on the header. I have a 3558 and am the envy of anyone whom I have let touch it. NOT REPLACEABLE AT LESS THAN $2,000 and you might still get screwed. I tried to buy a jumbo larrivee so I could put it away for a few years. Well... I did buy one. Although comparative in sound (which they shouldnt be by a long shot, the jumbo being a JUMBO for god's sake) I enjoy the size and cannon like sound i Get from the pre-ban brazilian rosewood SOLID back and sides. Paid $1300 for the j-09 larrivee on ebay.

Gl. if anyone has a Tama for let me know for sure! take away the nospam and email me at [e-mail] to swap pics and make trades of cash or other valuables. http://home.t-online.de/home/pjs.hufschlag is your link.

Best, Philip

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,kab907
Date: 12 Dec 04 - 12:39 AM

i have a tama and i love it still sounds better then any guitar i have played.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 19 Jul 04 - 04:16 AM

I remember Tama made drums as well and Tony Capstick played one for a while in the 70's at least. it didn't register with me what he was playing last time i saw him.

I didn't know Derek's was a Tama.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Fred in Denver
Date: 18 Jul 04 - 11:39 PM

I have an absolutly perfect TG 120 that I bought new in Boulder, Colorado about 1980. I was looking to buy another guitar, but when I played the 120, nothing else sounded as good in its class. It has a rich, full, and round sound and is a pleasure to play. I am disappointed that they quit making them in favor of the lower end Ibanez guitars.

Does anyone know why they quit making the Tama guitar?

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Jul 03 - 11:32 PM

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Steve Burgess
Date: 05 Jan 03 - 03:27 AM

I have a Tama which I like so much that when it was run over by a truck (a long and interesting story) I had
Doug Eaton, a local luthier, make and fit a replacement neck to the undamaged body. The result has been a success. Although it is now no longer a Tama it is once again my main 'tough as nails, play loud and stay in tune' guitar for festival gigs etc.

I played it at the recent Woodford Folk festival (a great festival, by the way - www.woodfordfolk festival.com). At a workshop, I sat next to a fellow and was initially surprised to see him play what I thought was my guitar (his was almost identical). It was the only other Tama that I had seen being played, and vice-versa for him. He had been using his professionally since 1975 and has had no complaints other
than it's weight.

Steve Burgess
Dagun Qld. Australia.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Leadfingers
Date: 24 Oct 02 - 07:53 PM

If its half as good as Brimmo's its alright!

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Fingerbuster
Date: 24 Oct 02 - 07:15 PM

Tama make splendid drum kits. Exceptionally loud i seem to remember.
Nic.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: 53
Date: 24 Oct 02 - 06:08 PM

I've never tried a Tama.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: DonMeixner
Date: 24 Oct 02 - 05:24 PM

I believe I played one owned by Wendy Grossman in Ithaca New York about 1975. I thot it was an exceptional sound guitar for the money.
It played well and it stayed in tune as I recall. But that was 25+ years ago. Memories fade but guitars get better.

Don

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Richard Bridge (cookie and format C)
Date: 24 Oct 02 - 05:18 PM

I know a local guitaris who plays one.

I think opinion here is a little on the cautious side.

Certainly to my ears a better ring and sustain than any Maton's I've seen and rather cleaner and less twangy than either most Martins or most Gibsons. Directly comparable to a good Morris. I'd buy it fast at up to about GBP 600 if it's as nice as the one I know.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: clansfolk
Date: 29 Jul 02 - 11:05 AM

I have a Tama in my collection - with a "tree of life" up the neck - well finished instruments - not up to Martin/Gibson but not in the same price range!

I found a web site with a lot of information/models etc will try and post a link (when I find it again!)

Pete

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Lanfranc at the orifice
Date: 29 Jul 02 - 06:04 AM

Derek Brimstone's Tama is a special edition model built to commemorate the Bicentenary of the US in 1975 (?date, us limeys tend to elide the year of the secession from our memories!) It has elaborate inlays including the Great Seal of the US in MOP/abalone on the back. It is indeed a superb instrument, and rare withal.

I have only come across a couple of more run-of-the-mill Tamas, and these were close copies of Martin D28s, although I suspect the back and sides were laminate rather than solid.

$500-$600 sounds like a fair price, although if it is a special edition like Derek's - PM me!!

Alan

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Guitarfixer
Date: 29 Jul 02 - 12:24 AM

I have seen a few Tamas and had them in the repair shop for basic maintenance. They are a little lightly braced, so one that has been abused (like Medium strings over a period of many years)could be a bad bet. If you have a chance to check it out and the setup needs just minor adjustment, I think they are one of the better guitars around. I agree with the poster who said 1970's C.F. Martin replicas. I have one friend with a Brazilian rosewood (laminate) model, another in mahogany. Solid spruce tops on both. Great sound, well made. I'd estimate value to be around $550 if no significant work is needed.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: GUEST,Greycap
Date: 28 Jul 02 - 08:08 AM

My pal Tony Martin has one - very nice guitars, well made, nice inlay, good tone & volume.

Subject: RE: Tama Guitar
From: Murray MacLeod
Date: 27 Jul 02 - 07:40 PM

I believe, although I am not certain, that British folk legend Derek Brimstone also plays a Tama guitar. His is a guitar of outstanding tone and volume.

Murray

Subject: Tama Guitar
From: Big Red
Date: 27 Jul 02 - 06:45 PM

Know a guy that wants to dispose of a Tama Guitar, Model 3565. I understand they were made in Japan from 1973 to 1979 and were a copy of Martins. Beyond that I can't seem to find anything else. It was played very little and is in excellent shape. (So I have been told.) Can anyone enlighten me on this guitar?