Introduction
In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the Washburn Rover, a parlor travel guitar that boasts a unique design and excellent value for money. Designed for players on the go, the Washburn Rover offers compactness without compromising on quality. So let’s dive in and explore what makes this guitar a standout choice for travel enthusiasts.
A Closer Look at Washburn
Washburn, a reputable name in the musical instrument industry, offers a range of instruments that provide excellent value. While they may not be considered high-end, Washburn instruments are known for their reliability and ease of recommendation. Aside from their more traditional offerings, Washburn also produces unique instruments like banjos, ukuleles, mandolins, and hollow guitars.
Washburn Rover RO10TB Acoustic Guitar Review
The Washburn Rover RO10TB is a lightweight and compact travel acoustic guitar. Don’t let its smaller size fool you – this guitar packs a punch. With a fully-sized fingerboard and a solid Spruce top, it delivers a quality sound that rivals that of a full-sized acoustic guitar. The Washburn Rover is designed to be travel-friendly without compromising on playability.
Overview
The Washburn Rover series offers a range of ultimate travel guitars that are suitable for players of all skill levels. These guitars feature solid Spruce tops, premium Mahogany back and sides, and a 23.75” scale length. With a variety of attractive colors to choose from, you can look good while playing your favorite tunes.
Built Quality
The Washburn Rover is built with portability, looks, and sound in mind. Its unique design ensures that it remains lightweight and easy to carry. The body is made of solid Spruce on the top, with laminated Select Mahogany on the back and sides. The Quarter Sawn Scalloped Sitka Spruce bracing, a feature uncommon in this price range, contributes to its balanced tones. Despite its compact size, the guitar maintains a 24.75” scale length, providing a familiar feel for acoustic guitar players. The neck is made of smooth mahogany with a satin finish, featuring a rosewood fingerboard with easy access to all frets.
Finish
The Washburn Rover boasts a matte finish all over the body, enhancing its smooth feel. The satin finish on the neck adds to its overall appeal. With four color options available – natural, black, red, and blue – you can choose the one that suits your style.
Sound Quality
Thanks to the combination of Spruce and Mahogany tonewoods, the Washburn Rover delivers warm and rich sounds despite its smaller body size. While it may not produce as much volume as a full-sized guitar, it still offers a clear and fun tone. Perfect for campfires, hotel rooms, and other intimate settings, the Washburn Rover provides just the right amount of sound without being overpowering. Its warm and punchy tone is ideal for both practice and songwriting purposes.
Feel Quality
The Washburn Rover feels great in your hands. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to play, but make no mistake – it is not a toy. With its fully-sized frets and quality hardware, this guitar is a joy to play.
Hardware
The Washburn Rover is equipped with die-cast tuners that retain the guitar’s sound impeccably. It also features an ABS nut and a sturdy rosewood bridge. The set of extra light D’Addario EXP-15 strings included with the guitar ensure comfortable playability for beginners. Plus, the foam-line case that comes with the guitar offers excellent protection during travel.
Downside & Alternatives
While the Washburn Rover offers great value and portability, it may not be the best choice if you’re seeking a louder guitar. If you’re looking for something more powerful, consider options like the Baby Taylor or the Gretsch Jim Dandy. Both guitars offer impressive sound and playability. Another alternative is the Yamaha JR1, a top value option suitable for kids due to its size and sound projection. For a unique Hawaiian-inspired sound, you may want to explore the Martin LXK2.
Specs
- Design: Ultra-compact body for travel
- Body tonewood: Solid Spruce Top with laminated Mahogany back and sides
- Neck: Thin neck with bolt-on joint
- Neck tonewood: Mahogany with satin finish
- Scale: 24.75”
- Fingerboard tonewood: Rosewood
- Tuners: Chrome die-cast
- Bridge: Rosewood bridge
In Summary
The Washburn Rover is a top choice for those in search of a reliable and portable travel guitar. Its compact size combined with its excellent sound quality make it an excellent companion for musicians on the go. Despite its budget-friendly price, the Washburn Rover delivers a sound that surpasses expectations.
Final Say
With its lightweight design, the Washburn Rover is one of the best travel guitars available in the market today. Its portability, playability, and affordability make it a great choice for any guitarist looking to take their music on the road.
