What is the historical significance of the Eko Ranger XII VR?

It is a reissue of the 1962 Eko J56, which was one of the most successful 12-string guitars produced in Europe during the 1960s. The VR (Vintage Reissue) model maintains the specific design elements that made the original series famous.

What type of neck joint does this guitar use?

The Eko Ranger XII VR features a bolt-on neck construction. This was a signature feature of the original 1962 model and allows for easier adjustments and neck resets compared to traditional set-neck acoustic guitars.

Does this guitar have a built-in pickup?

Yes, it is equipped with a Fishman Sonitone Preamp system. This allows the guitar to be amplified for live performance or recording via a standard instrument cable.

What is the purpose of the zero-fret on this model?

The zero-fret is positioned just in front of the nut to set the string height and improve intonation. It ensures that the tone of an open string sounds more similar to the tone of a fretted note.

How can the bridge be adjusted?

The guitar features an adjustable aluminium bridge saddle. This allows the player to raise or lower the string action easily using the adjustment screws, providing better control over playability than a fixed saddle.

What finish is used on the top of the Eko Ranger XII VR?

The guitar features a Honey Burst top with a beautiful orange stain. This specific finish was chosen to resemble the aged, vintage look of the original 1960s Ranger models.

Are the electronics difficult to use?

No, the Fishman Sonitone system uses simple rotary controls for volume and tone. These are usually mounted inside the soundhole to keep the exterior of the guitar looking clean and vintage.

What string gauge is recommended for this 12-string?

While it can handle various brands, many players use light gauge sets such as Elixir 11150 Polyweb (10-47). Light strings help manage the significant tension created by twelve strings on the neck and bridge.

How does this compare to the Fender CD-140SCE-12?

The Fender model is a modern dreadnought with a set neck, whereas the Eko Ranger XII VR offers a vintage-spec bolt-on neck and adjustable saddle. The Eko is specifically designed to appeal to fans of 1960s European guitar aesthetics.

What are the fretboard inlays like?

Consistent with the 1962 reissue style, the fretboard features square dot inlays. This provides a distinct retro look compared to the standard small round dots found on many modern acoustics.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

While 12-string guitars require more finger strength than 6-strings, the Eko Ranger XII VR's adjustable bridge and zero-fret make it easier to set up for comfortable playability. Its price point is also very accessible for those new to 12-string instruments.

What body shape is the Eko Ranger XII VR?

It uses a dreadnought body shape. This design is known for providing a large internal volume, which helps the guitar produce the projection and bass response necessary to support twelve strings.

Gear article

Eko Ranger XII VR 12-String Electro Acoustic

The Eko Ranger XII VR is a 12-string electro-acoustic guitar designed as a vintage reissue of the 1962 J56 model. It combines classic European design elements with modern electronics, featuring a bolt-on neck and a Fishman Sonitone preamp system.

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Background and History

The Eko Ranger XII VR represents a significant return for Eko Guitars, serving as a faithful recreation of the 1962 J56 Eko model. The Ranger series became iconic in the 1960s and 70s as one of the most popular 12-string guitars in Europe due to its robust build and distinct visual style.

This Vintage Reissue (VR) version aims to preserve the character of the original instruments while incorporating modern manufacturing standards. It maintains the specific aesthetic cues that defined the era, such as the revised pickguard and the signature orange stain finish, intended to mirror the aged appearance of the original Honey Burst tops.

Design and Key Features

The Ranger XII VR is distinguished by several unique construction features that depart from standard acoustic guitar design. Most notable is the bolt-on neck, a feature preserved from the 1962 original which aids in structural stability and ease of maintenance. The guitar also utilises a zero-fret design, which helps ensure consistent action and tone across open and fretted notes.

The bridge system is another standout feature, employing an adjustable aluminium bridge saddle. This allows players to fine-tune the intonation and action of all twelve strings with greater precision than a fixed bone or plastic saddle. The fretboard is decorated with square dot inlays, staying true to the vintage aesthetic.

Electronics and Sound

While the acoustic resonance is rooted in its dreadnought body shape, the 'Electro' designation comes from the inclusion of a Fishman Sonitone Preamp system. This on-board system allows the guitar to be plugged directly into an amplifier or PA system for live performances.

The electronics include rotary controls for volume and tone, discreetly mounted to maintain the vintage appearance of the body. The combination of the 12-string configuration and the Fishman preamp results in a rich, shimmering sound with significant volume and harmonic depth, suitable for both rhythmic strumming and melodic lead lines.

Target Audience and Comparison

This instrument is primarily suited for players seeking a vintage-style 12-string with modern reliability. Its competitive pricing at approximately GBP 299 makes it accessible for intermediate players or those looking to add a 12-string texture to their collection without a massive investment.

When compared to alternatives like the Fender CD-140SCE-12 or the Yamaha FG820II, the Eko stands out for its specific European heritage and bolt-on neck design. While the Gretsch G5022CWFE-12 Rancher Falcon offers a more ornate aesthetic, the Eko Ranger XII VR focuses on the utility and character of the early 1960s Italian guitar boom.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the historical significance of the Eko Ranger XII VR?: It is a reissue of the 1962 Eko J56, which was one of the most successful 12-string guitars produced in Europe during the 1960s. The VR (Vintage Reissue) model maintains the specific design elements that made the original series famous.
What type of neck joint does this guitar use?: The Eko Ranger XII VR features a bolt-on neck construction. This was a signature feature of the original 1962 model and allows for easier adjustments and neck resets compared to traditional set-neck acoustic guitars.
Does this guitar have a built-in pickup?: Yes, it is equipped with a Fishman Sonitone Preamp system. This allows the guitar to be amplified for live performance or recording via a standard instrument cable.
What is the purpose of the zero-fret on this model?: The zero-fret is positioned just in front of the nut to set the string height and improve intonation. It ensures that the tone of an open string sounds more similar to the tone of a fretted note.
How can the bridge be adjusted?: The guitar features an adjustable aluminium bridge saddle. This allows the player to raise or lower the string action easily using the adjustment screws, providing better control over playability than a fixed saddle.
What finish is used on the top of the Eko Ranger XII VR?: The guitar features a Honey Burst top with a beautiful orange stain. This specific finish was chosen to resemble the aged, vintage look of the original 1960s Ranger models.
Are the electronics difficult to use?: No, the Fishman Sonitone system uses simple rotary controls for volume and tone. These are usually mounted inside the soundhole to keep the exterior of the guitar looking clean and vintage.
What string gauge is recommended for this 12-string?: While it can handle various brands, many players use light gauge sets such as Elixir 11150 Polyweb (10-47). Light strings help manage the significant tension created by twelve strings on the neck and bridge.
How does this compare to the Fender CD-140SCE-12?: The Fender model is a modern dreadnought with a set neck, whereas the Eko Ranger XII VR offers a vintage-spec bolt-on neck and adjustable saddle. The Eko is specifically designed to appeal to fans of 1960s European guitar aesthetics.
What are the fretboard inlays like?: Consistent with the 1962 reissue style, the fretboard features square dot inlays. This provides a distinct retro look compared to the standard small round dots found on many modern acoustics.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?: While 12-string guitars require more finger strength than 6-strings, the Eko Ranger XII VR's adjustable bridge and zero-fret make it easier to set up for comfortable playability. Its price point is also very accessible for those new to 12-string instruments.
What body shape is the Eko Ranger XII VR?: It uses a dreadnought body shape. This design is known for providing a large internal volume, which helps the guitar produce the projection and bass response necessary to support twelve strings.