De Angelico Guitars: A Comprehensive Guide To Their History, Sound, And Models

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Written By Bernirr

I'm fascinated by the Yamaha brand's craftmanship, but above all I'm fascinated by Music, and I love Sports. Reach me via my socials for a link to my Spotify playlists. 

Welcome to my article all about De Angelico guitars! If you’ve stumbled upon this post, chances are you’re a guitar enthusiast or looking to buy your first one. Well, let me tell you – De Angelico guitars are a dream come true for any musician. From their rich history to their unique sound and models, there’s so much to explore when it comes to these beautiful instruments.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the fascinating journey of how De Angelico guitars came into existence and how they have evolved over the years. We’ll also dive into the distinct features that make these guitars stand out from others in the market. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this article has something for everyone.

So sit back, grab your favorite beverage, and join me as we uncover everything there is to know about De Angelico guitars! Get ready to be amazed by their craftsmanship and fall in love with their melodic tones. Let’s get started!

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De Angelico Guitars are renowned for their quality, craftsmanship, and unique sound. Founded by John D’Angelico in 1932 in New York City, the company quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the finest guitars in the world. D’Angelico himself was a master luthier who learned his trade from his uncle and mentor, Raphael Ciani.

D’Angelico’s guitars were known for their elegant designs and attention to detail. Each guitar was meticulously handcrafted with only the highest quality materials. The company’s flagship model, the Excel, featured an ornate headstock design and intricate fretboard inlays that set it apart from other guitars on the market.

But what truly made De Angelico Guitars stand out was their sound. The combination of superior construction techniques and carefully selected tonewoods resulted in a warm yet clear tone that musicians couldn’t get enough of. This unique sound attracted many famous players such as Chet Atkins, Bucky Pizzarelli, and even jazz legend Charlie Christian.

In addition to their iconic models like the Excel and New Yorker, De Angelico also produced more affordable options such as the Premier series which still maintained high-quality standards but at a lower price point.

Unfortunately, after John D’Angelico’s passing in 1964, production of these coveted instruments came to a halt until they were revived by two passionate guitar enthusiasts – Jim Triggs and Bob Benedetto -in 1999. They continued D’Angelico’s legacy by creating faithful reproductions of his original designs while incorporating modern technology to improve playability.

Today, De Angelico Guitars continue to be highly sought after by musicians all over the world for their impeccable craftsmanship and exceptional sound. From jazz greats to contemporary artists across various genres – everyone can appreciate these beautiful instruments that have stood the test of time.

The Origin and Evolution of De Angelico Guitars

In the bustling heart of New York City, during the 1930s, a remarkable story was taking root. In a small shop in Little Italy, John D’Angelico was quietly honing his craft and shaping the future of guitar-making with his bare hands. Considered by many as “the greatest guitar maker”, he began creating what are now known today as De Angelico Guitars. Each piece meticulously handcrafted, these musical instruments were born from an extraordinary mix of Italian artistic heritage and modern American innovation.

As time passed on, D’Angelico’s impeccable craftsmanship paved the way for De Angelico Guitars evolution into revered objects of desire among musicians worldwide. After John’s untimely passing in 1964, his apprentice Jimmy D’Aquisto continued their shared legacy till 1995. Since then,

  • The brand has been revived by Steve Pisani,
  • Paying homage to its roots while pushing creative boundaries.

Modern De Angelico guitars maintain classical aesthetics but have integrated advanced technologies such as custom pickups and unique wiring configurations. This blend allows musicians to coax tones ranging from vintage warmth to contemporary clarity out of their guitars—an embodiment of both past tradition and future possibilities.

Unique Characteristics That Define a De Angelico Guitar

As you step into the world of musical instruments, one name that echoes with reverence and respect is De Angelico. These guitars aren’t ordinary; they’re like picking stars from a constellation – each has its own unique tale to tell. To start with, crafsmanship sits at the heart of De Angelico’s allure. Each guitar is meticulously handcrafted, ensuring unmatched quality and attention to detail seldom found elsewhere. Their commitment to perfection is seen in every curve and coil.

Apart from their standout craftsmanship, various other characteristics are exclusive to De Angelico Guitars:

  • Sculpted F-holes: Not just for aesthetics, but these unique shapes offer an innovative acoustic design enhancing both resonance and tone.
  • Retro Appeal: Bearing a classic look yet modern feel blends retro charm with contemporary utility.
  • Tonal Versatility: Equipped with superior electronics offering varied tonal capabilities catering to diverse music genres without compromising on sound quality.

Moreover, what makes these guitars extra special is their incredible playability. The neck profile feels comfortable allowing hours of playing without discomfort or fatigue while being beginner-friendly as well. Bottom line? A De Angelico Guitar isn’t merely an instrument; it’s an heirloom built for generations of music lovers!

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Exploring the Different Models of De Angelico Guitars

In the vast horizon of guitar brands, De Angelico guitars stand as a shining beacon. This iconic company, rooted in history and tradition, offers a diverse range of models to cater to every guitarist’s preference. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive tone, De Angelico Guitars have been capturing hearts ever since they were first crafted by master luthier John D’Angelico back in the 1930s.

One cannot forget the majesty of the Premier Series. With its sleek design and powerful sound, it’s no wonder this series is a favorite among musicians worldwide. Another crown jewel is undoubtedly the LX Series, which combines vintage aesthetics with modern functionalities—certainly an irresistible allure for any guitarist seeking both style and substance. Other noteworthy models include:

  • The Deluxe Collection: High-end instruments renowned for their top-notch quality and luxurious finish.
  • The Excel Series: Infused with versatility that transcends genres – these guitars are perfect companions for those who like experimenting with different musical styles.
  • The Bedford Series: An innovative model designed specifically for offbeat musicians looking to break away from conventional tones.

Curiously peering into De Angelico’s acoustic line-up introduces us to another world of sonic wonders entirely! The company’s acoustics are known not just for their warm sounds but also intricate detailing. A fine example being The Lexington (SD-300): An elegant dreadnought adorned with mother-of-pearl inlay work. Or perhaps you would be entranced by the charming jumbo-bodied design of The Gramercy (SG-200), famed for its rich resonation.


De Angelico Guitars: A Comprehensive Guide To Their History, Sound, And Modelsde angelico guitar

Understanding the Sound Profile of De Angelico Guitars

The De Angelico guitars are crafted wonders that have a unique sound profile, which can only be attributed to their exquisite design and craftsmanship. Designed with expert precision and an eye for detail, these instruments resonate with a rich tonality that is both distinctive and captivating. The beauty of the De Angelico sound lies in its ability to blend seamlessly into any musical style—be it jazz, blues or rock ‘n’ roll.

  • Versatility:
  • In one moment, the De Angelico guitar delivers deep warm notes ideal for soulful blues. And in another breath-taking strum, you’re taken aback by its bright resonant tune perfect for lively jazz performance.

  • Craftsmanship:
  • Every curve on each model contributes significantly to its complex range of sounds; from the hollow bodies perfectly carved out for resonance – acting like an echo chamber amplifying each string’s vibration – to the meticulously positioned frets ensuring precise intonation.

  • Nuances:
  • Even within individual chords, there exists an array of tones: crispy highs sizzle above mellow mid-tones while robust bass notes provide depth below them all.

In Conclusion, what truly sets these instruments apart is not just their physical appeal but more importantly, their unique sound signature. A well-made instrument such as De Angelico guitars provides musicians with a sense of control over various elements leading to creative freedom—manipulating volume levels without losing pitch clarity or playing around intricate harmonics without sacrificing tone quality—all while enveloping listeners in waves upon waves of enchanting melodies.

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How to Choose the Right De Angelico Guitar for You

Choosing the right De Angelico guitar for you could be compared to picking out the perfect outfit. Just like with clothes, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to guitars. The key is finding a model that highlights your personal style while being comfortable and easy to play.

To start your selection process, think about what type of music you want to play on your De Angelico guitar. This brand has a rich history of crafting instruments tailored towards jazz, but they also craft models fit for blues and rock genres as well.

  • If you’re into jazz or soulful tunes, consider getting an archtop model like the Deluxe Series’ EXL-1.
  • If you prefer something more versatile that can handle various genres, semi-hollow guitars like Premier Series’ DC might be up your alley.

Now let’s discuss sizing and build quality. A lighter guitar isn’t necessarily better – it all depends on what feels good in your hands.
Your physical comfort should not be compromised, so don’t hesitate to try out different sizes until you find ‘the one’. You would also want a well-built instrument that stays in tune and delivers consistent sound quality.
Paying attention to details such as fretboard material (usually rosewood or ebony for De Angelicos), neck shape, pickup configuration etc., will provide further insight into how each guitar may cater directly to your playing style.

In conclusion, choosing the right De Angelico involves careful consideration of factors such as genre preference , size & build comfort plus some understanding of construction materials & features. It’s akin to forming a unique bond where both player & instrument harmoniously complement each other’s qualities thereby creating magical music together!

Conclusion: Why Consider a De Angelico as Your Next Guitar

So, you’re in the market for a new guitar? Well then let me tell you about De Angelico, an option you should not overlook. Picture this: your fingers delicately flowing over exquisitely crafted frets and strings that seem to hum with anticipation of the beautiful music they’ll help create. That’s what it feels like to hold a De Angelico guitar. It’s akin to holding a piece of history, since these instruments have been meticulously crafted by artisans since their inception in 1932.

Here are some reasons why De Angelico should be your next pick:

  • Incredible Craftsmanship: Each De Angelico instrument is designed with care and precision – no detail is too small. The mother-of-pearl inlays, custom pickups, and hand-sculpted bodies are just some examples of their superb craftsmanship.
  • Diverse Range: No matter what kind of player you might be – jazz enthusiast or rock aficionado – there’s bound to be something within De Angelico’s vast array that strikes your fancy.
  • Rich History: These aren’t just gorgeous pieces; choosing a De Angelico means becoming part of a legacy that spans almost nine decades!

There’s something incredibly fulfilling about feeling the weighty resonance from strumming on these well-crafted strings as each note finds its perfect place in shaping your unique sound. So when considering which brand will carry forward your musical journeys, remember – a De Angelico isn’t just another guitar, it’s an experience unto itself!

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