
( Brand: Washburn ), ( Model: EA-20 ), ( Series: N/a ), ( Body Material: Maple ), ( Model Year: 2016 ), ( String Configuration: 6 String ), ( Body Type: Mini Jumbo ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: China ), ( Dexterity: Right-handed ), ( Bundle Listing: No ), ( Type: Acoustic Electric ), ( UPC: 801128001241 )
The Washburn EA-20 Acoustic-Electric Guitar with a Spruce Top and Flame Maple Mini Native Origins finish is an exceptional instrument that seamlessly blends traditional acoustic sound with modern electric capabilities. This guitar is an ideal choice for musicians seeking versatility and excellent tone, making it suitable for various music genres, gigs, or recording sessions.
Top and Back:The top of the EA-20 is made from high-grade solid Sitka Spruce wood, which is known for its excellent tonal properties. This soundboard material delivers a rich, crisp, and articulate sound with good resonance and projection. The guitar's back is crafted from premium flame maple, adding an eye-catching aesthetic as well as sustain and structural support for the instrument's body.
Body:This guitar features a cutaway body design, making it easier for players to reach and perform on the upper frets. The shape of the guitar body is designed to provide exceptional balance and comfort while playing, ensuring a pleasant experience during extended sessions. The nitrocellulose finish used on the EA-20, specifically the Mini Native Origins pattern, is not only visually attractive but is also well-known for its ability to enhance the guitar's tone by allowing the wood to breathe and vibrate more naturally.
Neck and Fingerboard:The neck of the Washburn EA-20 is crafted from Meranti wood, which is a hardwood that provides stability and a smooth feel. The 25.3" scale length paired with a 1.6875" nut width allows for comfortable playing and easy access to the higher frets. The fingerboard is made from quality Rosewood, ensuring superb playability and durability, while the 14" radial Compensated Fretboard Radius ensures optimal string intonation for enhanced tuning stability and improved overall performance.
Hardware:The EA-20 is equipped with a Washburn AGS3-BGC bridge with a compensated bone saddle, which provides improved transfer of vibrations from the strings to the body, resulting in improved intonation and a better overall sound. This guitar boasts a secure and stable tuning performance, all thanks to its Gotoh 510 open gear tuning machines, designed for high torque and durability.
Electronics:The L.R. Baggs Element VTC pickup system found in the Washburn EA-20 offers a clear and natural sound in electric mode, while the built-in endpin preamp ensures a seamless transition from acoustic to amplified performance. The control panel on the guitar's lower bout houses a volume knob and tone control, granting players the ability to fine-tune their sound when using an amplifier.
In conclusion, the Washburn EA-20 Acoustic-Electric Guitar with a Spruce Top and Flame Maple Mini Native Origins finish is a versatile and high-performing instrument, perfect for those who demand the rich, natural tones of an acoustic with the convenience of electric capabilities. With its premium materials, impressive tone, and convenient features, it's an excellent investment for any musician looking to enhance their playing abilities and expand their creative possibilities.
The Washburn EA20 is an acoustic-electric guitar model featuring a spruce top and flame maple finish. This instrument is popular among beginner to intermediate level players due to its affordable price point and decent tone quality. In this analysis, we will be discussing the pros and cons of the Washburn EA20 acoustic-electric guitar to help potential buyers make an informed decision.
Pros:1. Affordable: The Washburn EA20 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious guitarists. With a price range under $300, it makes an excellent first guitar or a backup instrument for experienced players.
2. Spruce Top: The spruce top adds to the guitar's bright and dynamic tone. Spruce is known for its excellent responsiveness, allowing for better sound projection and clearer tonality.
3. Flame Maple: The flame maple finish not only enhances the overall appearance of the guitar but also contributes to its tonal qualities. Maple provides a warm mid-range and a good balance between brightness and warmth.
4. Chrome Hardware: The chrome hardware includes die-cast tuning machines that ensure smooth tuning and improved tuning stability. Adequate hardware quality is a crucial factor for beginners learning the basics of guitar maintenance.
5. Versatile: The EA20 comes equipped with a built-in pickup system, allowing players to use it as an acoustic-electric guitar. This feature is essential for players who frequently perform in small venues and need to be heard through amplification or PA systems.
6. Easy-to-play neck: The Washburn EA20's neck profile is designed to be comfortable for most hand sizes. A comfortable neck is vital for encouraging playing hours, fostering the development of proper playing techniques, and reducing the chances of injury.
Cons:1. Action: One frequent complaint about the guitar is its factory-installed action, which might be high and require initial adjustments. Setup adjustments might involve professional help or tutelage, and this may impede new players' progress except for those who are willing to learn the basics of guitar setup and maintenance.
2. Quality Control: There are cases in which the Washburn EA20's quality control could be better. Some users have reported receiving guitars with inconsistencies like uneven frets, lacquer debris, and stressed tops. These issues might not be a concern for all units, but they can contribute to a less-than-ideal playing experience.
3. Limited Fretboard Size: The fretboard size, particularly the total length of 24.75 inches, might not be suitable for individuals with larger hands or players seeking a full-sized guitar. In such cases, going for a more prominent instrument like the EA30, which features a scale length of 25.5 inches, or seeking a different instrument altogether would provide a more comfortable playing experience.
Conclusion:The Washburn EA20 offers beginners or intermediate players an affordable acoustic-electric guitar with a spruce top and flame maple finish. With its versatile features and overall value, it makes an excellent option for those who prioritize this combination while seeking a low-budget instrument. However, its potential cons, such as the need for initial setup adjustments and inconsistent quality control, may deter some buyers. If the action needs to be addressed, a local luthier or guitar technician can be consulted to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable playing experience. For the price point, the Washburn EA20 provides a decent starting point for guitarists aiming to strengthen their skills and broaden their musical versatility.
Recommendation:Based on the analysis of the pros and cons of Washburn EA20, it is a suitable choice for those seeking an affordable, visually appealing, versatile, and relatively decent-sounding acoustic-electric guitar. If the guitar's action and potential quality control issues do not pose significant concerns, the Washburn EA20 represents solid value for the price. Pre-setup checks and regular upkeep will further enhance its playing and tonal characteristics. Overall, it is an impressive offering from Washburn for budget-conscious players who value an eye-catching design and versatility in their instrument.