Yamaha's acoustic guitar legacy is continuing with the reveal of its new flagship acoustic model, the FS9. The high-end Japanese-made guitar follows the dreadnought FG9 and is available it two iterations, the FS9 R (an Indian rosewood body) and FS9 M (African mahogany body). And the concert-sized model is being touted as an ideal companion for singer-songwriters.
At $6,780 and $6,620 for the FS9 R and FS9 M, respectively, they also represent a serious investment. Though street prices are already coming in significantly under those figures at around $4,100 and $4,000.
The FS9 features Adirondack spruce tops with tapered edges, said to provide structural strength while allowing the body to vibrate more efficiently.
That idea carries forward with the decision to combine bolt-on and glued construction with the neck join. Not only does Yamaha claim it increases the body vibration of the FS9, but it improves maintainability – allowing the neck to be removed if necessary.
The Japanese aesthetic is showcased in details including the fingerboard inlays that resemble traditional Kumiki woodworking and the rope-shaped inlay and purfling of the rosette.
Tonally, the FS9 aims for "strong projection and clear top end" that is ideal for articulate arpeggios when accompanying vocalists. While the rounded V-shaped neck semi-gloss polyurethane for smooth playing, the body's thin nitro finish to minimise the impairment finishes can have on vibrations.
- For more information visit Yamaha and Sweetwater . Check out the FS9 in action with artists David Ryan Harris and Sophia James below.
“This guitar combines the classic J-45 ‘Workhorse’ with aesthetic details inspired by Orville Gibson’s legendary craftsmanship”: Gibson celebrates 130th anniversary with exquisitely ornate Custom Shop tribute to its founder
“I didn’t realise how diverse, eclectic and innovative my guitar collection was ”: Steve Vai’s monster guitar collection to be documented in epic upcoming book – and there’s a $25,350 Ultra Edition that includes a super limited edition Ibanez JEM
