In the '60s and '70s, Guild was an accessible choice for simple, unassuming and affordable American-made flat-tops. These well-made guitars inspired everything from protest songs to rock and roll epics. Although they capture much of the same mojo and refined tone you expect from a vintage guitar, today's collector market just doesn't prize these instruments as much as other brands (that may be perceived as more high end). But that's not such a bad thing, is it? These great-sounding guitars are some of the best value you'll find in any shop.
Guild introduced the G-37 in 1972, and it's actually a fairly rare model within the Guild line. Available in both Sunburst and Blonde finish, the G-37 is straightforward—25-1/2" scale, Spruce top, and a laminate arched Maple back. Relative to other Guilds with Maple back and sides, its appointments are more understated: simple dot inlay, decal instead of an inlay on the peghead, and basic biding around the top and back. When you go through the '70s Guild catalog, you'll also notice most dreadnoughts were made with Mahogany or Rosewood backs (whereas most Maple guitars are Jumbos), so this model is a bit of an outlier.
This Guild G-37 Blonde dates to 1974, and it is a great-playing, great-sounding vintage American-made dreadnought. It shows some wear and signs of use, particularly around the soundhole area. There are three repaired top cracks in between the bridge and the end block. All are cleated, stable, and purely cosmetic at this point. The finish is beautifully checked across the top, and around the sides, back, neck, and headstock. At some point along the way, the end block was drilled out for a pickup, but it has been removed. There's still an end-pin jack in place, so don't think twice about installing a pickup in this one. Fret wear is minimal, and the action is really nice and approachable. The original tuners hold tuning like they should.
This 1974 Guild G-37 produces a robust dreadnought sound that stands apart from others because of the Maple construction. It has nice clarity and mid range you don't find from Mahogany and Rosewood models. If you're looking for something that fits the dreadnought role but sounds a little different from the others, this G-37 Blonde has you covered. Plus, we can't get enough of the Guild styling. Something about the shape of the headstock, pickguard, and bridge is just right! It includes a featherweight Gator case.