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I know the d 28 is a very popular style. The question I have is :why isn't the d-18 more popular? Seems like a larger body + more volume and some here use D18 for fingerpicking.

I think Bob is refering to a D18 12 fret. If that is the case the 12 fret though a great guitar isn't as easy to play as the 14 frets. I guess this is a personal thing. The larger boxes may contribute to the voice but you are right , there are not a lot of them played on stage
john hall

I dont think there is any difference in body size Bob .. the main differences are all in the construction materials, and thus tone - D18 Mahogany, D28 Rosewood - likely a better grade for the top, but maybe not, different binding scheme .. thats about it. A D35 is a different matter, it uses a 3 pc back, and also an OM brace set, not the same size as the 18/28 and 40-45s .... as Harry Flesihman pointed out once, a D45 is just a D28 with a pound of shell on it !!!

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Tony Karol
www.karol-guitars.com
"let my passion .. fulfill yours"

John- why do you say that the 12 fret is more difficult to play? I can understand a difference in the punch from a 12 fret versus a 14 fret because of the greater tension on the 14 fret guitar. Wouldn't the action on a 12 fret be a bit "softer?" So, I'm just a bit confused. mt

Bob Johnson I believe is talking about the 1933 D18 which was in fact a 12 fret. They are a great guitar but the 14 fret version seems much more popular. The part that makes them more difficult is playing in the higher register as up past the 12 fret it gets more difficult.
   I don't fit the 12 fret dred like some do. As for the tension , I think you are misunderstanding the physics of the guitar. A 12 fret or 14 fret will have the same scale so the tension is the same. Scale length is not specific to one or the other. A short scale would have less tension than the long scale as would string choice influence the string tension. The punchieness of the 12 fret has to do with the larger body.
john hall

A 12 fret will have the bridge position lower on the lower bout by 1/2" or more assuming the same scale length. Some refer this area as a sweeter spot and as a result takes on an entirely different personality.

I personally prefer 12 frets for this reason.

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JJ
Napa, CA
http://www.DonohueGuitars.com

Right-on
I am refering to the d18 12 fret.
What makes the 12 fret more difficult?
Does a cutaway solve any of the problem?
Thanks

I would guess the different bridge position might have a slight difference on string feel due to the different mechanical prop of the top area it is glued to.  It probably sounds better because the bridge is closer to the center of the active part of the top ? 

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