Gear article

Hartwood Revival Vibrato Semi-Acoustic Guitar

The Hartwood Revival Vibrato is a semi-acoustic electric guitar designed to deliver a classic aesthetic with a warm, traditional tone. Featuring a twin humbucker configuration and a basswood body, it is engineered for versatile performance across various musical styles.

Hartwood Revival Vibrato Semi Acoustic Guitar Burnt Orange
Hartwood Revival Vibrato Semi Acoustic Guitar Burnt Orange
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Overview

The Hartwood Revival Vibrato Semi-Acoustic Guitar is an instrument that blends traditional design elements with modern manufacturing techniques. Part of the Hartwood range, this model is distinguished by its 'Burnt Orange' finish and its classic semi-hollow silhouette. It is designed to provide a reliable and versatile tone suitable for a wide range of genres, from jazz and blues to indie and rock.

Construction and Design

The guitar features a body constructed from basswood, a tonewood known for its balanced response and rich bass frequencies. Internally, the instrument utilises parallel tonebar bracing, which helps to reinforce the top while allowing for the resonance typical of semi-acoustic designs.

A key feature of the neck is the thermally treated maple fretboard. This sustainable treatment process improves the stability and smoothness of the wood, providing the player with agile playability and accurate performance control. The 'Burnt Orange' finish offers a striking visual that aligns with the 'Revival' naming convention, evoking a vintage aesthetic.

Yamaha CG142S Classical Acoustic Guitar Natural Gloss
Yamaha CG142S Classical Acoustic Guitar Natural Gloss

Electronics and Hardware

The Hartwood Revival is equipped with a classic dual-humbucker configuration, featuring one pickup at the neck and one at the bridge. This setup is intended to provide a striking tone capable of cutting through a live mix. The inclusion of a vibrato bridge system further expands the instrument's expressive capabilities, allowing for subtle pitch modulation and traditional shimmer.

Sound Character

The combination of a semi-acoustic body and humbucking pickups results in a warm, traditional tone. The basswood body contributes to a dynamic sound with a strong low-end foundation, while the parallel bracing ensures the instrument remains articulate. It is designed to be versatile enough for musicians regardless of their specific playing style.

Market Context

Positioned within the entry-to-mid-level price range (typically around £250), the Hartwood Revival competes with other semi-acoustic and acoustic models. Within the Hartwood range, it sits alongside the Artiste Dreadnought and Sonata series. It offers a different sonic profile compared to classical options like the Yamaha CG142S or the more modern, stripped-back aesthetics of the Northstar Tanglewood Pro series.

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Frequently asked questions

What type of body construction does the Hartwood Revival use?
The Hartwood Revival features a semi-acoustic body construction made from basswood. This design incorporates parallel tonebar bracing to balance structural integrity with traditional acoustic resonance.
What pickups are installed on the Hartwood Revival?
This guitar is equipped with two humbucking pickups, located at the neck and bridge positions. This configuration is designed to produce a classic, warm tone that can easily cut through a band mix.
What is the benefit of the thermally treated maple fretboard?
The thermal treatment process increases the sustainability and stability of the maple. It results in a smooth surface that facilitates agile playability and provides the player with better performance control.
Is the Hartwood Revival suitable for beginners?
Yes, its combination of reliable tone and agile playability makes it suitable for musicians of all levels. The price point of approximately £250 also makes it an accessible choice for those starting their journey with semi-acoustic guitars.
What kind of finish does this specific model have?
This specific model features a distinctive Burnt Orange finish. This colour choice complements the 'Revival' theme, giving the guitar a classic, vintage-inspired appearance.
How does the basswood body affect the sound?
Basswood is known for producing a rich bass response and a dynamic overall tone. In the Hartwood Revival, it helps provide a full-bodied sound that works well with the semi-hollow design.
Does this guitar include a vibrato system?
Yes, this model includes a vibrato tailpiece as part of its hardware set. This allows the player to add pitch effects and traditional shimmer to their playing.
Can this guitar be used for multiple genres?
The Hartwood Revival is designed for versatility and is suitable for all musicians no matter their style. Its humbucking pickups and semi-acoustic resonance make it particularly effective for jazz, blues, and rock.
What type of bracing is used inside the body?
The guitar utilizes parallel tonebar bracing. This specific internal structure is designed to support the top while enhancing the traditional semi-acoustic tonal characteristics.
How does this model compare to the Hartwood Sonata?
While the Sonata is a Grand Auditorium acoustic guitar with a charcoal stain, the Revival is a semi-acoustic electric model. The Revival is better suited for players needing humbucker-driven electric tones, whereas the Sonata is a pure acoustic instrument.
Is the Hartwood Revival a heavy guitar?
While specific weights can vary, the use of a semi-hollow construction and a basswood body generally results in a manageable weight. It is designed to be comfortable for extended periods of play.
What is the typical price range for this guitar?
The Hartwood Revival Vibrato Semi Acoustic typically retails in the range of £250. This makes it a competitive option within the budget-friendly semi-acoustic market.