Sigma Guitars

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Dana
Date: 02 Apr 09 - 09:13 PM

I have returned to this thread, occasionally, to see if the appreciation for Sigma is still alive. It is!

I am saddened to note that there has been no posting by Mr.Sterling Webb since, I believe, January of '05.

Mr.Webb, are you out there? You are a rare and valuable resource for the Sigmaphiles of the world. Speak to us.

I am still loving my DR-28C (not a cut-away). I do not know what the "C" signifies. Mr.Webb, if you care to share, what does that "C" mean?

Dana

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,the might sig
Date: 01 Apr 09 - 10:14 AM

I noticed that D10 Anniversary on Ebay at 950$ for "buy it now" too! It's not even in great condition with dings on the neck--but hey it's 20 some years old, and hey it's a D10. It has been up on Ebay for a week now and no bites. We'll see if it sells for that price.


On a different note, I can't seem to come to a conclusion on this question: Did the early MIJ sigmas (specifically the dr-7) have an adjustable bridge? I found one with an original tag (no place marker for the model and "Made in Japan"--it's just stamped where it fits on the tag). This one has an adjustable bridge and not sure what era this is indicative of? Mr.Webb!!!! : ) thanks to anyone who can help.

Subject: RE: Sigma D-10 Anniversary
From: Valkyrie Guy
Date: 31 Mar 09 - 07:03 PM

There is a Sigma D10 Anniversary on EBay up for sale. They have a Buy-it Now set at $950.00. Thats the highest price I have seen yet.
They just keep going up. I guess that is good for those of us that already have one. I know I love mine!
Good luck to anyone that goes for it.
John

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,multiple sigma owner
Date: 27 Mar 09 - 08:06 PM

FretNut,

thanks for letting me know that. I've never seen an all wood sigma that was made in japan, and I've never seen one with a laminate top... so, that's one thing about Sigma's - there is NO consistency.

The Japanese Sigmas that I've seen used pretty good tonewood, even the laminate pieces are pretty good wood. So, I'd assume that it would fool many players. After all, it's all about what it sounds like.

There were several manufacturers in Japan, so maybe one of the builders used all laminates. The "52s" series are all laminate. They are really nice sounding guitars. were marketed as "professional instruments", and geared toward performers. Maybe yours is one of those rebadged.... Martin used that 52s series to test some of the glues and laminates that they use today on their lower end guitars.

I like to set up a few chairs in my living room, then make my friends sit facing away from me.

Then I play my 5 best guitars. Two are sigmas, one is a Martin, one Gibson, and one is a Thompson. Frequently they can't tell the difference, occasionally you'll get one who prefers the sweeter, clearer sound of the thompson, but all are amazed that the $400 Sigmas that I have hold their own against the Martin and Gibson and mostly against the Thompson.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: Leadfingers
Date: 26 Mar 09 - 08:19 PM

500

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Mar 09 - 06:03 PM

i bought a sigma DM-5 in the mid 70's i dont remenber exactly i cant find the bill of sale but i do have the original show room tags.It was bought at a martin dealer in a little town in southern BC,Canada called Langley.i played it constantly for many years and then it sort of was retired.my interests took me in other directions.recently i restrung it after not touching it for almost 8 years.i was amazed at the temper and warmth of this obscure beauty.she is as stated a DM-5 with a relatively low unique serial#3333.does anyone know how to zero in on the manufacture date.i have read a lot of the posts starting from 2004 and MR.Web has the most revealing info.

Subject: RE: AT in Athens
From: GUEST,the mighty sig
Date: 26 Mar 09 - 03:45 PM

AT in Athens, I'm interested in hearing / seeing what you have. freefall365 AT hotmail.com

Thanks!

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: cutterflys
Date: 26 Mar 09 - 01:52 PM

Guest AT in Athens
Possibly interested in a MIJ Sigma. Can you tell me a little about what you have? cutterflysATyahoo.com

Subject: DR-7
From: GUEST,Mighty Sig
Date: 24 Mar 09 - 10:07 PM

I just purchased a MIJ (old headstock, sideways "M") DR-7 Sigma serial number 9546. Judging from reading a lot of these posts it would seem that this should be a fairly early 70's jap? Any ideas on this?

Also, it has an adjustable saddle, is this consistent with the early MIJ sigmas?

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST
Date: 24 Mar 09 - 01:11 PM

Guest, AT in Athens,

I have several MIJ Sigmas I was planning to list on ebay in a few months. If you are interested I'm glad to discuss.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: fret nut
Date: 18 Mar 09 - 10:36 AM

To Dave E

If you look at the edge or the sound hole you can check to see if the grain goes through the thickness of the top. Follow a few different grain lines to verify. If its laminate you wiil be able to see the core material.
As far as I know Sigma did not try to hide the fact that they used laminates by "rolling" the veneer over to hide a core. You can use a mirror to check the underside of the top to see if the grain pattern matches.
Just so you know I own an early (sideways "M") Jap DR-7 all laminate that has fooled many seasoned players. I could also be argued that a laminate will stay flat longer given it's "stable" construction as it it not subject to the natural stresses of a drying solid piece.

Hope this helps

Subject: japanese sigma DR-7: solid versus laminate
From: Dave E.
Date: 14 Mar 09 - 12:19 PM

How can I tell the difference between a solid top versus a laminate? After reading through this thread, there seems to be some consensus that the solid top Japanese Sigmas (1970-78) have great sound. But it seems like there are laminate from the same era floating around. I'm looking to purchase a DR-7 and want to be sure of the difference.

Subject: Trying to find a Sigma guitar
From: GUEST,AT in Athens
Date: 11 Mar 09 - 02:48 PM

Hello all ~ I figure since this is the best place to learn about Sigma guitars, it might just be the best place to find one to buy, too!

I notice a number of posts here with folks saying they want to sell their acoustic, 6-string Sigmas. Just so you know, I'm not a collector, guitar-trafficker, or anything with a clear label...just someone who knows a good value when I play one! In college, I played a friend hand-me-down DM-? and I've been searching a good, long while since.

I'd love to correspond with any of you out there who are looking to sell a Sigma Martin guitar to someone who just wants to play the thing day in and day out with respect and admiration for its inherent quality.

Thanks to those who have provided the rest of us with such extensive and enlightening information on these beloved instruments.

If you're looking to sell your Sigma, please email to:

[e-mail]

Thanks to all.

p.s. that's Athens, GA so don't worry about the poor Sigma sloshing around with the trans-Atlantic ballast!

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Kyle
Date: 11 Mar 09 - 10:57 AM

I've had my s10 for almost 15 years now, not realizing what it even was. I got this guitar as a replacement for my lousy mexican fender in 1995 and played it occasionally for about 2 years. It went into its case in a closet, and has traveled from south Florida to Chicago, followed by Texas and then to Paris, France. Ten years later it is back in Florida with my parents, and on its way home to Palm Beach County. I'm excited to see that there are others out there that share my joy of this awesome sigma and would love to see more info on any kind of reunion.

feel free to contact me
[e-mail]
kyle

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: fret nut
Date: 10 Mar 09 - 12:50 PM

To multiple sigma owner,    I own an early MIJ DR-7 (original greek letter headstock) that definately has a laminate top. I have heard from others that also own one. Still produces a fine tone and has fooled many "experts". I own several solid guitars and my Sigma equals or outperforms all of them.
There a definately early japanese Dr-7's and other models that are all laminate construction.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,guest
Date: 23 Feb 09 - 06:30 AM

A DR-11 went on ebay for around $400 a few months ago.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: DDar
Date: 21 Feb 09 - 03:15 PM

I am seeking technical information on an 80's Korean made Sigma CR-7 classical. I will appreciate infomation anyone might have from an old brochure, such as top material, neck, etc. It is a Rosewood back and sides, laminate I presume, and Internet sources suggest the dates of manufacture of the CR-7 to be from 1979-1985. I assume this one was made 1984-1985,as it is Korean.

Thanks for any info you may have.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Bozeman
Date: 14 Feb 09 - 04:58 AM

Thanks to the Guest who commented on my posting, and the "potential" clarfication about date. I need to do some work to find out precisely when I purchased my Sigma DR-11. I was pretty sure it was 1978 or 1979, but with the comments you provided regarding the change in lettering on the head from the Greek to the Est. 1970...hmm...got me thinking.

My dilemma, however, continues. I recently bought a Taylor cut-away 12 string--started first looking at the Martin's--so now am still looking to purchase my first "real" Martin (I have a Little Martin LXM), and will continue to look at their 6-string cutaways.

Problem is, my Sigma sounds GREAT, and I'm not sure I can justify keeping it AND purchasing another new guitar.

The bottom line is, that I'd like to know how much my Japenese DR-11 is worth! It's aged quite nicely, has only a few minor dings, and sounds better than many of the new Martins I've played...which of course probably leads some people to say "why do you want to replace it with a Martin?" Well...first, I want a cutaway, and second...I want to be a Martin owner...call it status, perhaps longer-term quality, maybe an acoustic electric feature...??

Still pondering in Bozeman...

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: 12stringer
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 10:43 PM

Hi everyone... I just purchased a Sigma GCS 2...it appears to be a copy of a Martin small body guitar...it sounds incredible...anyone familiar with this model?
Thanks,
Randy

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,keith
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 03:51 PM

To: multiple sigma owner

Thanks so much for the info. That helps narrow it down a bit. Mine does not have the open back tuners. It makes sense that they were manufactured in different factories, since many of these posts have said that these older ones are all solid woods- mine is definitely not. It's difficult to tell but I think it's all laminates.

Either way the guitar is in really good shape the bridge is not separating from the top (I keep it stored with no tension in the strings) The previous owner had medium gauge strings on it when I got it and the top was a little bowed, but I changed them and it hasn't gotten any worse in the 25 years I have owned it

Thanks again for all your help- I may try to sell it if I can figure out a decent value for it

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,April
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 11:09 AM

So sorry but forgot my e-mail address:
[e-mail] for any information on the Sigma Guitar model CS3 model SK 087031 and on the neck # 700187. Any and all info would help and will check this site often.

Thanks,
April

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,April
Date: 13 Feb 09 - 10:37 AM

I found a Sigma Guitar EST 1970 made in Korea model CS3 SK 087031 than inside a stamped on the neck 700187 in our closet. My husband bought it mid seventies [he thinks 1976 or 1977] and being a lefty found it very hard to play so this guitar is in great condition. It has sat in his closet for all these years in it's case. The wood and condition is beauitful, it has six strings and have no idea of a value, he says that he has maybe less than five hours of trying to self teach. He has never learn to play and our nine year old wants to learn but don't want him to ruin it, if it has any value to it.
Can anyone give me some advice?

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,multiple sigma owner
Date: 12 Feb 09 - 08:27 PM

Keith,

There is no reliable way to date Sigma's. Unless you've got a sales receipt (and even then you don't know when it was made, just sold), all you can do is guess.

Here's what I know.

Sigma started the second generation of guitars in 1978. I know some said 1980, but it was earlier than that. I've got a couple of magazine ads from 1978 that tout the "second generation". Since yours has the 1st generation logo, you can safely say it is pre 1978. Next, it has the zero fret. Typically, you'd expect that to be an early one. My 1973 DM-5 doesn't have a zero fret, so it may be earlier than that. Also, if your guitar has open back tuners, that's another sign of early manufacturing.

I suspect that the serial numbers were manufacturer specific, meaning that sigma had multiple companies building their guitars. Some early serial numbers start with a year (presumably) and then a dash, my 73 Sigma is 73-XXXXXX

Sadly, no one except Martin can tell you when it was made, and they aren't talking!

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,keith
Date: 12 Feb 09 - 03:19 PM

I forgot to mention in my first post- my DR 12-7 has the "sideways M" or Sigma symbol in perloid above the block letter SIGMA name. It also has the "zero fret" which I have not seen on any other guitar

Thanks, Keith

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,keith
Date: 12 Feb 09 - 03:07 PM

I was wondering if someone could help me figure out when my Sigma 12 string was made. It is a DR 12-7 serial number is Z2914. It also says manufactured in Japan.

I've read through most of these posts and never seen anyone else mention the letter Z in a serial number. I bought it used in the early 80's and I don't think it has a solid top or back and sides.

It's been sitting in my closet for 20 years, and I was thinking about selling it, but I was hoping to find out a little more about it before I do

Thanks, Keith

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,multiple sigma owner
Date: 07 Feb 09 - 11:32 PM

Don,

I have the original sigma catalog from 1970. It doesn't say "solid spruce top", it says "spruce top". However, I have a 1973 DM-5, the 1975 GCR-7, and what I date to either 1976 or 1977 DR-7s. All three have a solid top. I am positive of that. The catalog also says "spruce top" for those.

If your Sigma is made in Japan, with the sideways greek sigma letter in pearloid, I believe it to have a solid top. The 1994's were made in Taiwan. A laminate top for those would not surprise me. On a Japanese one? Yes that would surprise me a lot.

Other than the 52s series (which are all laminate), Martin used these to test glues and such, I believe all Japanese Sigma's to be solid tops. I know some think that Sigma initially made all solid wood guitars, I've never seen one, and I've seen lots of them.

I've also got a 1980 Sigma D-10 (anniversary model) and I doubt that it has a solid back and sides. I'm not positive but fairly certain. Nonetheless, it sounds FANTASTIC.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,don at the bay
Date: 07 Feb 09 - 07:18 AM

While I wish it had a solid top, The Official Vintage Guitar Guide indicates (pg 207) the GCS (Grand Concert Series) 6 has a laminated spruce top with mahogany back and sides.I know for sure that mine has mahogany back and sides, and Martin Company folks indicated the top was (likely) laminated...though the one sited in the OVGG was a 1994 and I bought mine in 75. Hey, it's still a nice little guitar.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,multiple sigma owner
Date: 04 Feb 09 - 10:32 PM

oh, I forgot. I bought my GCR-7 about a year ago. It is in pretty good shape but has some wear. I paid more than I should have, but I bought it from a friend. $200.

great sound though.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,multiple sigma owner
Date: 04 Feb 09 - 10:29 PM

I have a GCR-7 japanese made probably a 1975. It has a solid top. GCS stands for Grand Concert Sapele. I think the seller might be right. It probably is a solid top.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,donat the bay
Date: 01 Feb 09 - 05:51 AM

Just saw gcs 6 that sold yesterday on ebay...$242.50 with no case. A bidder had asked if it was a solid top and the seller replied "yes". I'm pretty sure the seller is wrong.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,donat the bay
Date: 18 Jan 09 - 09:34 AM

From what I've seen, you can ferret out the year your guitars were produced from the serial #...as someone indicated previously. My GCS-6 begins with 74, the year I'd expect it was born, as it was purchased in 75. Several have asked about the value of the GCS model. Sterling indicated the higher the # of the various models, the higher the quality of the instrument at production (ie 1 at low end). Elderly music recently had a really beat 6 with an asking price of $35. I've seen others sold on ebay in the low to mid $200 range. I've also seen where folks were asking considerably more...but you can ask whatever you want. Bottom line to those wondering what their GCS-6 is worth;if you have an early model (72-78)in good shape, ask $250 and maybe come down a little from there.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: cutterflys
Date: 07 Jan 09 - 01:08 PM

Cathy
Wish I could help you but I can't. Are you thinking of selling it or just wanting to know it's worth?

cutterflys

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Cathy Durham
Date: 03 Jan 09 - 08:44 PM

Hi. I have a Sigma with the model number GCR-7 that I purchased new in the late 1970s. It is in perfect condition and the serial number is 75070266. Can anyone tell me about its value in dollars and any other info on it?
Thanks,
Cathy Durham

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,cutterfys
Date: 28 Dec 08 - 01:29 PM

The serial no. for the fore mentioned post is 91010228. I suspect this is a Korean Model but it's a real keeper all the same. Any help on it's origin and/or year is most appreciated.

cutterflys

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,cutterflys
Date: 24 Dec 08 - 10:14 AM

Wow, what a good place for info on Sigma guitars. Last year I purchased a used SDR-28. The top looks to be solid and I assume the "S" in SDR stands for solid top. I did change out the saddle to a tusq and lowered the action. I'm using light gauge Elixer coated strings on it. What a player. Intonation is closer than what I've heard on guitars costing much more. I've compared it to a couple of Martins, thus I think I've ended my quest for a high end Martin. This guitar has exceptional tone and has aged well. I can't make out the engraving inside as to it's origin. If I was to go home tonight (at work now) and post the serial no. would this possibly provide me with origin and year?

Thanks In Advance

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Mac McKinney
Date: 19 Dec 08 - 08:47 PM

One of my Sigmas has the letter P stamped on it, along with the model number. Anybody know what the P indicates?

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Guest DR-7 Owner
Date: 19 Dec 08 - 02:39 PM

What a great discussion I fell upon. I have a DR-7 that I got new in 1970. It has the zero fret and adjustable bridge and a great booming sound. I have had other guitars come and go but I have never, ever considered letting go of my Sigma(I currently own a couple of Taylors I use for finger picking). This guitar is a war horse and has taken lots of abuse over the years but it remains in great shape.

A few years ago I had new tuners installed. After reading some of the comments here I might consider replacing the bridge saddle and nut with bone. Recently, I decided to get serious about playing slide and easily set up my Sigma for the job. The adjustable bridge made it easy to raise the strings and the zero fret allows for buzz free slide action at the top end of the fret board. I have gotten lots of comments about how great it sounds with slide. I think I will take this guitar to the grave with me.

Thanks

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Dec 08 - 06:23 PM

Hello all Sigma ppl!

Just thought of letting you all know there is a D10 currently for sale on eBay. It´s for sale on "Buy it now" or "Best offer" deal for another 3 days and 4 hours from this moment. Buy it now price is $1000 with shipping included. Once again being from Finland, Europe, I´m out of the game since the seller states to ship only to USA. And no, I don´t know the seller neither am in any kind of relation or connection to, neither have absolutely no personal interest in who gets to buy the guitar. Unless you want to define "personal interest" that I would be happy to hear someone that really appreciates it also gets it.

And please come back to the forum to share your happiness, disappointment or simply brag with what you´ve gotten to yourself :) And of course to tell how the guitar is ;)


Take care, good luck and happy bidding to you all who decide to give it a try!

Cheers!

Leo from Finland

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Guest: SIGMA DR 35S
Date: 16 Dec 08 - 07:22 PM

Hi Folks , I have aquired a Sigma DR 35S Made in Japan Serial # inside on back is S39197, the other serial number at neck joint, is less clear, but it looks to be 208036.
   From reading through many of the posts on this very informative site, it would appear the guitar was made between 1980 - 1984? Does the S in "35S" stand for sunburst?
The guitar has been well lived in, but the only flaws appear to be purely cosmetic. Any ideas on its value or the year of make?? I think I'll get it properly set up before I re string it. Cheers Geoffrey

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Sigma DR-11
Date: 15 Dec 08 - 12:04 AM

To Bozeman: I too have an early DR-11 in great shape. Mine has the SIGMA with Greek M name on the head as opposed to EST 1970 . The Sigma name is in mother of pearl (I know of only two that have the Sigma name in MOP).
Your guitar was made 1980 or later as that was the year they changed the headstock wording from SIGMA Greek M to the EST 1970, even though they did start making them in 1970. The DR-11 was top of the line when it was made. Almost all of the DR-11 were made in Japan and all of the ones that have the SIGMA with the Greek M on the headstock were made in Japan. The consensus is that the Japanese were better made. I also a pristine D-10 Anniversary model. With good light strings it does stomp Martin D-18 Butt.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Glenn Walls
Date: 14 Dec 08 - 08:04 PM

One more Sigma D10 Annivesary for the record. I had one given to me a couple of years ago. A friend of mine new I was looking for a guitar and he decided to give me the D10. Once got it I started looking up information on the guitar and now I am fully aware of how blessed I was.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST
Date: 14 Dec 08 - 09:12 AM

About two months ago, I bought a Martin D16RGT (dreadnaught with scalloped braced solid sitka spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides) and a used mint condition Sigma DR 41 (dreadnaught with scalloped braced solid spruce top and laminated rosewood back and sides.)

Both guitars sound much better now than when I bought them. I have changed the saddles and bridgepins to bone and adjusted them for close action, and added Fishman Gold + pickups in each.)

The Martin is more expensive and more prestigious than the Sigma...but which one is better? I really can't say. The Martin is a little sweeter sounding, but doesn't have nearly as much volume and clarity on the treble strings. The fingerboard on the Sigma is a little wavy but it feels fine.

Which do I like to play more? I really can't say, but the question of the advantage of solid back and sides over laminated back and sides has been a puzzling one. It would appear that for the type of bracing these guitars have the rosewood tone is due to reflection rather than vibration.

Cosmetically, I would prefer that the Sigma didn't have all that fake pearl inlay, and perhaps a darker top like the Martin, but I wish the Martin had a glossy beautiful finish like the Sigma.

Now I wonder how many of the solid top Sigma guitars are beautiful like mine. I bought it as a back up guitar and it has far exceeded my expectations. I have three Martin dreadnaughts and on a given day, the Sigma is as nice as any of them.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Bluehawk
Date: 11 Dec 08 - 11:38 PM

Wow!! I just found this thread tonight. Finally some info on Sigma guitars. A BIG thank you to Mr. S Webb for his great information. I hope he is still out there fixing and playing his Sigma guitars.

I also have a D-10 Anniversary. I bought it new in 1980 or 1981 from a music shop here in South Texas. My sister-in-law also bought one a day or two before I bought mine.

So add two more D-10 Anniversary Sigma guitars to the list. I wonder how many that makes on this list out of the 100 that were built?

Best of luck to you all.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,the fool on the hill
Date: 05 Dec 08 - 10:52 AM

i was just rereading my post...

i have to correct myself on one thing.

the words "are nothing compares to the dr-35n"
sounds too negativ. they all sound very well, but not as good and as close to a real martin as the beautifull dr-35...

Subject: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,the fool on the hill
Date: 05 Dec 08 - 10:40 AM

hello all...

i was looking and reading this posts here now for more then a year, never posted myself, but got lof of information on sigma guitars from this site.

I bought myself several sigma guitars in the last 12 months, looking for "the" guitar, lowsuite, for me.

i don't want to say that i found it now, cause this would be too early, but the best playing and sounding sigma guitar i have is definatly the DR-35N i purchased some days ago.
this one has a solid top and laminated back and sides, martin tuners and a martin serialnumber.

the sound is great, and it plays really well.

i'm sorry to say, but all other sigmas i have (all laminates, but with old sigma logo (dm-5 12, dm5, 52sdr7 and another one without a modelnumber but a green Martin papaerlabel???...) are nothing compares to the dr-35n.

i don't know, maybe its the solid top, or the made in usa, i dont know, but this guitar really is balanced on all strings and played strummed, it sings and sounds just great...

what do you think of it. does the solid top makes the differance?

keep on playing,

fer

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,Guest from Massachusetts
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 05:18 PM

I'm hoping someone can help me get some information about a Sigma SDR-28 I bought my son second-hand a couple of years ago, serial number 89098551. It is in beautiful condition and came with the original hard plush-lined case. He was just starting to play at the time, and since then has gotten lots of compliments from experienced players on the sound and quality. I'd love to have more information about the guitar. (Not that he wants to sell; he's quite happy with it.)

Following internet links, I gather we lucked out. It sounds from the SDR, that it has a solid spruce top, but I am not sure if it has mahogany or rosewood sides and back, and suspect those are laminated. I also suspect it was made in Korea, from other internet chat, but am just guessing. Can anyone guide me to a Sigma serial number site, help me get additional information, and get a sense of what it's worth?

Enjoying the Sigma info. Thanks in advance.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Nov 08 - 02:45 AM

The Anniversary D-10 was imported, inspected, and distributed in Canada by "The Martin Organisation Canada Limited" and WAS at 80 Milner Avenue, Unit 12 Scarborough Ontario M1S 3P8.

Strings were Martin M140.

1980 retail price may have been priced around ~$480 (CAN) ($395 to $420 US)

*NB: "organisation" vs. "organization" spelling.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST
Date: 19 Nov 08 - 05:14 PM

I now have three Martin dreadnaughts that I really like...and a Sigma DR 41. It's really hard to say which is the nicest sounding guitar. I know the old D 18 and the new D16RGT and the new DCX1E are more valuable, but playing them side by side the Sigma holds up well.

I've been involved in discussions about the value of solid woods and the consensus seems to be the top is most important. The back and sides are more important for reflection than vibrations...meaning the Martin road series of solid tops with laminated rosewood backs sound as nice and many of the higher end Standard series.
(However, I've learned from a respected luthier that much older Martin standard guitars had a different bracing on the backs making them vibrate more.)

Anyway, my Sigma which is still in mint condition and has a white looking top...sounds fantastic. I haven't played any others like it so I don't know if it's an anomaly, but I paid $295 for it with a case a few months ago and had a Fishman Gold + pickup and I love playing it. I wish my solid wood Martins were as loud. To be fair, my D16RGT is a little sweeter, but this is one of the nicest guitars I've ever owned.

I did manage to find a Sigma catalog and flyer and for the original owner, they carried the same warranty as the Martins. The repair man at the Martin factory agreed that the sound was remarkable. Others at the factory said they stopped making Sigma when the Mexican plant opened and a solid top Sigma is like getting a Martin for less.

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST,cat
Date: 17 Nov 08 - 08:52 PM

How much is a one year old sigma dr41 worth?

Subject: RE: sigma guitars
From: GUEST
Date: 11 Nov 08 - 09:09 PM

I am pretty stoked actually. As I sit here playing my Anniversary for some reason I decided to look it up. I am so glad I did, but now I wish I would have taken better care of it. Still in fine playing shape and looks pretty good. I inherited it from my Aunt who died when I was 15 so I would never sell it. I am glad to know that it is even more special than sentimental though. What I know about the Anniversary is that there were only 100 made to mark the last from Japan. Spruce top with mahogany back and sides. The binding and pick guard are tortoise shell and the finger board is rosewood with pearl "snowflake" inlays and the word Anniversary on the 20th fret. 2 more snowflake inlays on each side of the bridge. I love this guitar and every time I look to replace it I cant find anything that sounds or plays better for less than 2K. Find one if you can, they are a bargain even today. Stays in tune forever.