Gear article
Sigma DA-SG7 Dreadnought Electro Acoustic Sunburst
The Sigma DA-SG7 is a premium electro-acoustic dreadnought guitar featuring a sunburst finish and a combination of a solid Sitka spruce top with maple back and sides. Equipped with Fishman Sonitone electronics, it is designed to deliver a bright, articulate tone suitable for both unplugged performance and amplified stages.
See live pricesOverview
The Sigma DA-SG7 is a professional-grade electro-acoustic guitar that balances a striking 'dark' sunburst aesthetic with a characteristically bright and resonant sound profile. As a dreadnought, it offers the volume and presence expected of the body style, but distinguishes itself through the use of maple for the body and neck, which provides a unique tonal response compared to traditional mahogany or rosewood alternatives.
Design and Construction
The guitar is built around a solid Sitka spruce top, a industry-standard tonewood valued for its wide dynamic range and ability to handle various playing styles from aggressive strumming to delicate fingerpicking. The back and sides are constructed from maple, a wood known for its fast note decay and transparency.
The neck is also crafted from maple, paired with a micarta fretboard. Micarta, a synthetic composite, provides a smooth, consistent surface that is resistant to changes in humidity, ensuring a stable playing experience. The guitar is finished in a high-gloss sunburst that complements its traditional dreadnought silhouette.
Electronics and Hardware
To facilitate live performance, the DA-SG7 is fitted with the Fishman Sonitone electronics system. This system is designed to be discrete, typically featuring soundhole-mounted controls for volume and tone to avoid cutting large holes into the guitar's side. The goal of the Fishman Sonitone is to maintain the authentic acoustic character of the instrument when running through a PA system or acoustic amplifier.
Tonal Character
While the aesthetic of the DA-SG7 is described as dark and immersive, its sonic output is noted for shimmering clarity and articulation. The combination of a spruce top and maple body results in a tone that is bright and punchy, with a richness that prevents the sound from becoming overly thin. It offers a 'magically immersive' experience with significant definition across the frequency spectrum.
Market Position and Comparison
Retailing at approximately £750, the DA-SG7 sits in the mid-to-high tier of the electro-acoustic market. It competes with other high-performance models such as the Sigma DTC-28HE and the Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher Falcon. While smaller travel-sized guitars like the Yamaha APXT2 or Martin LX1E offer portability, the DA-SG7 focuses on providing a full-scale dreadnought experience for players who require maximum projection and a traditional feel.
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Frequently asked questions
- What body style is the Sigma DA-SG7?
- The Sigma DA-SG7 features a classic dreadnought body shape, which is known for its large size, high volume, and strong bass response.
- What wood is used for the top of the DA-SG7?
- The guitar uses a solid Sitka spruce top, which provides excellent clarity, a broad dynamic range, and a bright tonal character.
- What are the back and sides made of?
- The back and sides of the Sigma DA-SG7 are constructed from maple, a wood that contributes to the guitar's articulate and bright sound.
- Which electronics system is installed in this guitar?
- This model is equipped with Fishman Sonitone electronics, designed to provide an authentic amplified acoustic tone with minimal visual impact on the body.
- What material is the fretboard made from?
- The fretboard is made from micarta, a durable synthetic composite that offers a silky-smooth feel and excellent stability under different environmental conditions.
- Is the neck of the Sigma DA-SG7 mahogany or maple?
- Unlike many dreadnoughts that use mahogany, the DA-SG7 features a maple neck, which enhances the guitar's overall clarity and brightness.
- What is the finish of this specific model?
- The DA-SG7 comes in a sunburst finish, offering a traditional yet striking aesthetic that contrasts with its bright sonic profile.
- How does the sound of the DA-SG7 compare to its looks?
- Despite its dark sunburst aesthetic, the guitar is designed to produce a tone that is bright, articulate, and shimmering, rather than dark or muddy.
- Is the Sigma DA-SG7 suitable for fingerpicking?
- Yes, the solid Sitka spruce top and maple body provide the definition and dynamics required for intricate fingerpicking styles.
- What is the typical price for the Sigma DA-SG7?
- The typical price range for this model is approximately £750, placing it in the professional mid-range category.
- How does this compare to the Martin LX1E?
- The DA-SG7 is a full-sized dreadnought guitar with maple back and sides, whereas the Martin LX1E is a 3/4 size travel guitar, offering very different volume and tonal characteristics.
- Can the DA-SG7 be used for live performances?
- Yes, thanks to the integrated Fishman Sonitone electronics, the DA-SG7 is fully equipped for live performance and direct recording.
