Guild D-25 Reviews
Latest Reviews
“Guild Guitar D25”
Written on: 06/02/2013 by alvinshock
I have a Guild D25 that I traded for a parrot back in 1980. I am primarily a bass player, and the thing has sat around in the case for years. It sounds great, but is an animal to play, I think it needs some work to bring it back into shape. I have been playing it a lot more as of late and wanted to purchase something like a Martin. I have not been able to pull the trigger on a new guitar and I think that I have not found one that has the same resonance. After reading all of the comments... (read more)
“76 D25M”
Written on: 05/10/2012 by Lym-a-Rita
I go to music stores and play all the big name guitars and have to say they generally sound crappy to me and seem poorly made. This I suspect is because I have this Guild, this heavy duty dreadnought which sets an unrealistic bar. I feel a little self conscious responding to this thread as I only play for entertainment, don't flail away or us a pick, mostly play only what I figure out. But after doing this for generations I have an appreciation for good tone, playability and good... (read more)
“D25M Guild”
Written on: 06/06/2012 by DC5950
I bought my Guild D25M in 1978 wth a tax return. Best thing I ever bought w/tax money, by far. I still own the Guitar and play it daily. I gig w/it and it always gets rave reviews. The sound has only gotten better w/age. Everyone who hears it asks "where did you find that guitar". I have made a few minor adjustments. I replaced the orginal tuning gears w/German made 12to1's. added a bone nut and saddle and a pickup for amplification. It still sounds like an acoustic guitar. I have had to... (read more)
“I purchased the Guild D-25 in Manhattan when I was 29...”
Written on: 17/02/2011 by jamrondun (1 review written)
I purchased the Guild D-25 in Manhattan when I was 29 years old. That was 1979 and the guitar is in the same condition now with only a few minor nicks and scratches. It sounds great, stays in tune better than any guitar I've ever owned.
Better for soft finger picking than strumming. Very good for jazz chords and single note runs. I have recorded the instrument in well known LA and NYC studios. Sounds great without pick - just fingers.
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“Bought my D 25 in 1980. I've played it regularly ever...”
Written on: 10/01/2011 by algomapicker (1 review written)
Bought my D 25 in 1980. I've played it regularly ever since. Quite alot in the last 20 years. Intalled a Fishman pickup back in the mid 90's. Have dressed the frets several times. Some work on the bridge coming slowly unglued. This is my baby. If it needs work it gets nothing but the best. I've been playing it in bands for the last 5 years along with my Telecaster. Rather just play the Guild D 25. The sound running through the amps is stunning. Pretty much a common thing for... (read more)
“Just got a 1976 D25M off of Craigslist. It is a one...”
Written on: 05/01/2011 by TelemarkTumalo (1 review written)
Just got a 1976 D25M off of Craigslist. It is a one owner, all original bridge, nut and tuners. Much better than average condition for a 34 year old instrument. A few nicks and scratches and the owner remembered how they were all earned, no checking, no cracks. The sound is much better than I expected, with decent low tones and a very full mid-range. Good playability and the action is decent. This guitar really feels good, looks great and sounds awesome. I paid $500 for the guitar,... (read more)
“One can only hope that the newer D25's age as...”
Written on: 04/01/2011
One can only hope that the newer D25's age as gracefully as their predecessors. Mine is a 79 Cherry archback, stock tuning works but bridge pins and nuts replaced. Having played this guitar almost exclusively for over 30 years, I have become totally biased to her, finding few that can match her tone and versatility. I have been actively seeking a new guitar purchase but have difficulty accepting otherwise well made and reputable instruments for their own unique qualities as the bar has... (read more)
“I purchased my D-25M new in 1971. It was the first new...”
Written on: 16/12/2010
I purchased my D-25M new in 1971. It was the first new guitar I'd ever owned. As soon as I had a little extra money I replaced the cheap stock machine heads with a set of Schaller machine heads and I was set. As the guitar aged the mahogony top made the sound grow richer and bass tones grow deeper. Just before my first child was born in 1981 I had to sell the guitar to raise money to buy baby stuff but by that point I wasn't playing as much as I used to. I still think about that guitar. (read more)
“I first played a Guild guitar when I was in college...”
Written on: 04/12/2010
I first played a Guild guitar when I was in college back in 1967. It was the best sounding acoustic of all the brands that I tried. But, back then I needed money for college so I bought a cheaper Yamaha guitar. I finally found a used D-25 in 2003 that I bought for $545. As soon as I played the first few chords I knew that this was the guitar that I had always wanted to have. I use Martin 10's and it sounds great. I like the full, bass sound that I get on whatever style I play.
This...
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“Your description of the guitar's sound is great,...”
Written on: 21/08/2010
Your description of the guitar's sound is great, particularly in the second paragraph. Musical sounds are often difficult to express in words. A poetic expression to be sure. You have done it well. Welcome to the GUILD. (read more)
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Showing 1 - 10 of 27 Reviews
“I bought a Guild D-25 (rose/cherry) in 1968 at Manny's...”
Written on: 07/07/2010
I bought a Guild D-25 (rose/cherry) in 1968 at Manny's on 48th Street. It cost $125, which was 2 months rent back then. (2 months rent now-2010- in Manhattan/NYC would be 3-7 thousand dollars)
It has a sound so responsive and beautiful- rich on the bottom, bells on top, otherworldy sustain/overtones- it's better in my opinion than the old Gibsons or Martins because it's more mysterious (the G's and M's are balanced and even and perfect, but there's a mournfulness to the Guild). I always...
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Guest's Comment
Written on: 16/01/2012
I have a cherry d25 with serial number 06728 from hoboken, new jersey on the label. Does your label have the same location?
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“Bought my D-25 new in 73" with a Guild original...”
Written on: 24/06/2010
Bought my D-25 new in 73" with a Guild original hardcase. Flat back, solid mahogany front. back, side. Never had it professionally set up until last year. If you have not had that done...do it! made all the difference in the world (find a good luthier). Hey, don't get me wrong, great guitar before set up but now out of this world. (read more)
“I first seen the D25 in the late 70s...never forgot...”
Written on: 23/04/2010 by victor trolio (1 review written)
I first seen the D25 in the late 70s...never forgot the tone,or color..they wanted 500.00 for it back then...I bought the fender for 275.00 and still have it today...but never forgot the guild. A few months back i got a tip on a shop
in painsville Oh. where there might be a guild just siting around...kind of
place you never know....right. The guy says he has one in the back thats been
siting around for some time and he has,int had a chance to work on it yet.
When he brought it out i nearly...
(read more)
“I sold my 73 D25 to buy my sister's boyfriend 64...”
Written on: 03/02/2010
I sold my 73 D25 to buy my sister's boyfriend 64 Martin D18 back in 1974. He was going into the army and need the cash. While my D18 is a very special guitar and I still get goose bumps from the sound it is capable of, I do have a soft spot for my old cherry red mahogony arch back. It was and I hope is still a great instument. All the others I ve played have been very nice as well.
The sound, playability and finish were all top notch. While I love my D18 I do regret sellinmg that old D25.
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“I recently bought a used 1980 D-25. It is a antique...”
Written on: 19/01/2010
I recently bought a used 1980 D-25. It is a antique burst with a black headstock. The top is a little dried out but no cracks. The neck is straight and the action is med to high. Someday it will need a neck reset but after 30 years its inevitable. The tone on this guitar is.. well, fantastic. Solidly built, and of course from Westerly RI. Get one now before people discover... Also this guitar stays in tune better that my Gibson Les Paul. (read more)
“ I purchased this guitar in 1969, Unfortunatly someone...”
Written on: 07/10/2009 by sarahlyn (1 review written)
I purchased this guitar in 1969, Unfortunatly someone stold it in the 70's. I miss it dearly. Today I have a Martin D28, it's a great guitar but I dearly miss my old Guild which if I can remember corectly was much easier to play than my Martin. The sound wasn't as good as the Martin but better than antthing else I've played. I scratched SARAH inside it if anyone finds my old Guild, you can reach me at araslyn@msn.com if you find my old friend, There's a reward for her, dead or alive,,,,,,,,,, (read more)
“Bought a new Guild D 25m Spec. in '81. The Spec., I...”
Written on: 24/09/2009 by Duane C (1 review written)
Bought a new Guild D 25m Spec. in '81. The Spec., I have researched refers to the closed Schaller type tuners upgrade, instead of the usual open gears that were standard on the D25m (I have not seen another like it). Reddish Brown spruce top is still beautiful and sets it appart from anything else out there. The sound is remarkable as others have described and the neck is narrow compared to others in that time. It really has been a joy to play and it becomes center of attention by others... (read more)
“Purchased my Guild D25 new in early 1977, and I am the...”
Written on: 22/09/2009
Purchased my Guild D25 new in early 1977, and I am the only owner it has had. It has been on stage, in living rooms and outside at my picnic table helping me write songs. It is undoughtedly the finest, richest sounding guitar I have ever owned. I have several acoustics and have had others through the years I have bought and sold from mid to high end guitars and my D25 has always been the one I felt done the best job for what I play and how it feels. It has soul.
The only guitar I have played...
(read more)
“The Guild D-25 is the first guitar that I ever played....”
Written on: 14/03/2009
The Guild D-25 is the first guitar that I ever played. 17 years later I still love it! The timbre is full and rich, and it's louder than my buddie's Martin! Ha! Amazing volume and tone. It is however, kind of difficult to play because the strings are so tight. (read more)
“I have a 1974 red d-25, and a 1980 d-25. Best 6...”
Written on: 08/01/2009
I have a 1974 red d-25, and a 1980 d-25. Best 6 strings i've played. Play it hard, and you can keep up volume-wise with the acoustic piano player. The 1974 i have is a very light instrument. plays sweetly, and deliver's in a more soft way. The 1980 i have is a very heavy guitar. you can slam the hell out of it, and it will just keep going. not that the 1974 one can't, it's just that the later model does it so much better. I've played a lot of different guitars, and none have the... (read more)
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Showing 11 - 20 of 27 Reviews
“The D25 Series is the most usable acoustic guitar...”
Written on: 15/12/2008
The D25 Series is the most usable acoustic guitar built. It's legacy is in the bluegrass world and marked as a workhorse of a guitar. Playability is excellent. Balance is excellent. With a set of 10's or 11's, the mixture of bright strings with the arch back bring out the absolute best in the D25. I've owned my D25 Cherry since new in 1974. It has never failed me. I will, without hesitation, stack it up against any Martin or Gibson acoustic from the same era. (read more)
“My tobacco red Guild D25 has been my companion through...”
Written on: 30/11/2008 by Bdub57 (1 review written)
My tobacco red Guild D25 has been my companion through life -- I'm 51 and bought it off a floor rack at a Sam Ash on Long Island when I was 17 -- using $450 from my first government college grant check. (In those days, they mailed the money straight to you.) Solid, bright as a bell with a ballsy bottom, if I didn't have 2 kids who play I'd ask to be buried with this baby. Rumour has it the D25 can play bottom heavy in the studio. I don't know from experience as I haven't recorded with it.... (read more)
“Eninently playable. Beautiful loud resonant tone....”
Written on: 08/11/2008 by Here
Eninently playable. Beautiful loud resonant tone. Aesthetically appealing.Word is getting out decades after their debut.... Only those too stupid to deserve these carry them in "gig-bags"; to ship in one, criminal. I'd take more of these. (read more)
“The guild case wore out with all the gigs it went to,...”
Written on: 14/10/2008 by GANAIMN (1 review written)
The guild case wore out with all the gigs it went to, but many modern ABS cases will fit. However, it is important to take it to a shop to ensure it fits, as not all will do so, and accomadate the guitar's curved back.
Proof of how fond I am of it - I'd never bought another guitar until this year when I found another one of same age, same model, but in unblemished condition, which is my reserve guitar now.
(read more)
Guest's Response to GANAIMN's Review
Written on: 31/05/2011
Was yours a lefty? Do I own this guitar now?
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“Fantastic tone with Martin medium strings, lots of...”
Written on: 09/03/2008
Fantastic tone with Martin medium strings, lots of bass response, and loud withit. A superb alternative to a Martin.
Mine is about 15 years old, and I love it.
Ian Anderson
(read more)
Victor Trolio's Comment
Written on: 21/09/2010
from JETHRO TULL ? any how...the d-25 is played alot here..between the time
<br/>i work with the d-4...both built at the RI. shop....by the veteran crew.
<br/>currently i,m using de aderio lite...or twelves....on all of my instruments.
<br/>sound is mystical and hard to put my finger on the reason for the great quality in this low rated ax. i,ve done up grades to all my guitars and with out a doubt using the fossilized mamoth bone saddle has been one of the reasons that contribute to the d-25,s clarity and sustain. I know what the
<br/>other players mean..when they say theyed stack these guitars against the best made...or known...I,ve never owned a martain...played a vintage d-30 with
<br/>roached strings.....amazing...this being said...if you can find a vintage
<br/>guild d-25...sell the farm and worry about the rest latter. victor
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“I bought my D-25 in early 1974. It has a mahogany top,...”
Written on: 01/01/2007 by KKalanges (1 review written)
I bought my D-25 in early 1974. It has a mahogany top, sides and back. I have moved around the country since then and it has travelled with me. I don't abuse it. But I also don't get overly concerned about climate control. It has always been kept in the living space of my various residences. But no climate control, etc. The finish on the back is still fairly high gloss with one small wear spot. The rest of the instrument looks near new. Although I think that Gibson necks are still the best... (read more)
“Guild D-25 - In summer 2002 I decided that I needed an...”
Written on: 14/09/2004 by matnicholls (2 reviews written)
Guild D-25 - In summer 2002 I decided that I needed an acoustic guitar I could commit to. Having saved up my money, I went out and played a load of guitars - Taylors, Martins, Gibsons, etc. On price, sound and build quality, the Guild D-25 was the overwhelming winner.
The D-25 has a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides, arched-back construction and rosewood fingerboard with dot inlays. My model is finished in a natural hig- gloss finish and has stock Guild tuners. No electronics to...
(read more)
186540_Crmoorer's Response to matnicholls's Review
Written on: 25/03/2005
I have a 1975 D-25, and although it needs some work (the saddle needs to be re-glued and there are cracks where the neck connects to the body), it is an awesome guitar.
<br>
<br>Quality? Not a problem - this thing is built to last. A bit heavy, but that's what I like in an acoustic - it gives it a feel of quality and togetherness that some of the Martins and practically all of the Taylors I've played just don't have.
<br>
<br>And even after all those years, the sound is still pretty good - a strong bass, a deep, rich middle and a crisp, poigniant treble.
<br>
<br>This is surely a keeper!
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213168_Blugene's Response to matnicholls's Review
Written on: 09/10/2005
I bought a new Guild D-25 BR in 1968 and have kept and played it ever since.
<br>
<br> Great sound, holds its tune wonderfully, and holds together great.
<br>
<br> -blugene-
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265303_Cmoorer's Response to matnicholls's Review
Written on: 31/10/2006
I also have a 1975 D-25, and the combination of quality and sound is excellent. The guitar has a lot of bass, but mid and treble are good as well. It's very well balanced and delivers a nice full sound that higher value Martins and Taylors just don't have.
<br/>
<br/>What it is exactly describes what it isn't. Its balance of deep base, full mid tone and burly treble make it an excellent blues and rock guitar, but make it less suited to folk, where a more "punch," "trebly" sound is usually preferred. That's not to say however, that it won't get the job done in folk if asked to do so.
<br/>
<br/>The guitar is very well built. It spent many years in my dad's un-climate controlled attic (I live in New Jersey - known for hot summers and cold winters), and shows little "battle damage" (other than a neck and saddle that needed to be re-glued).
<br/>
<br/>What's nice is when jamming with others, the guitars versatility really shines. It's loud enough to be distinctly heard but, after some adjustment, can be played quietly and makes a nice "sound enhancer."
<br/>
<br/>Overall, after playing many other guitars from supposedly "better" manufactures, I'd take this Guild over all of them.
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265787_Gary D Parker's Response to matnicholls's Review
Written on: 05/11/2006
I bought my first guitar in 1975. It was the Guild D-25. Since then, it has aged to perfection the tone is almost that of classical guitar. Deep, rich, mellow sound.
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381663_Blackfootj's Response to matnicholls's Review
Written on: 11/07/2008
I bought my Guild D-25 new in 1973. I guess that they all had a darker, reddish finish on the top, and an even darker back and sides. My Guild has done nothing but mature in these past 35 years, and I play it more today than I ever have (I'm a bassist normally). I feel very fortunate that when I bought it, the price was only $265 including the best hard shell case. I would be curious what the value would be today, however, I would never sell the guitar. It will become part of my estate, and my son who plays sax will hopefully end up with it, and learn to play. I recently had a new set-up performed and with a few changes at the nut and bridge, it now plays better than ever. It was hard to get back from the luthier because he fell in love with it.
<br/>
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428564_Dougb's Response to matnicholls's Review
Written on: 31/12/2008
Bought a D25 in 1974 and it has been with me since. A friend put a beautiful inlay job on the peg head and neck with abalone. Looks and sounds great still!
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Bernie O Neill's Response to matnicholls's Review
Written on: 06/03/2009
Bought my D-25 FOR $300.00 in the late 1970's at Guitar City in George St, Sydney. Second hand, it had holes around the sound hole where some nutter had installed a clamp-on pick-up. Varnish was faded and cracked but I had the whole body re-done. I could see my face in the arched back it was so shiny. About 20 years later the amazing luthier Jim Mills replaced the fret board, re-varnished the body and installed a Martin thin-line pick up which is connected to the amp through the butt strap bolt. Jim also fitted Guild gold coloured machine heads. They look better than silver ones when matched against the guitar's colours. The case has a Guild logo on a metal strip glued to the case.
<br/>
<br/>
<br/>Bernie 0'Neill Australia
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Guest's Response to DC5950's Review
Written on: 21/07/2012
I have had my D25M since the late 70's and paid about 300 for it then used. A guitar is a very personal thing and what sounds and plays good to one person can be totally different to another . I dont know if I have the guitar players disease of never being satisfied and always looking or that "perfect axe"....but I do not like my D25m. It only sounds good when new medium bright strings are on for a couple weeks, then the tone goes flat and dull and its hard to tune. Nothing worse than an out of tune guitar. And I've always found it hard to play. gotta dig deep. Not for me. Id like to sell it and will be putting it on Ebay soon. Its 35 years old.