BUYING FIRST PSG....help wanted

Bob Gallant · Post by **Bob Gallant** » 11 Dec 2012 1:55 pm

I've been looking at quite a few posting for Steels, and I've got in norrowed down to a couple. Just wanted some opinions from people who know. I'm looking at a Magnum and an Excel. They are both very close in price. Which is better quality, sounding, playing guitar.

All opinions welcome.
Thanks,
Bob G

Bob Blair · Post by **Bob Blair** » 11 Dec 2012 2:25 pm

Both good machines. I used a borrowed Excel for a string of shows a couple of years ago and really liked it. Of the two I would l personally go for the Excel if it is in good shape. The Excel I used was an S-10 keyless, and I loved it. I almost bought it, but there were all kinds of reasons why it wasn't the right thing for me to do at that point in time.

David Higginbotham · Post by **David Higginbotham** » 11 Dec 2012 3:39 pm

Excel for many reasons. A search on the forum will provide you a vast amount of info that has made Excel possibly the best mechanically engineered steel on the market.

Joshua Gibson · Post by **Joshua Gibson** » 11 Dec 2012 5:25 pm

Given the option, I personally would go with the Excel.

and if You don't mind My asking, what Year and double or single neck?,

My first D-10 was 1975 Excel and I still have it along with a '76 Emmons push-pull...but besides that fact, Mitsuo builds beautiful playing and sounding instruments, Just My two cents

, good luck!.

Josh Gibson.

Jerry Roller · Post by **Jerry Roller** » 11 Dec 2012 5:56 pm

Bob, you have info from some guys who really know what they are talking about but I would like to put in a good word for the Magnum. It seem to me that you can't go wrong with either one. I know nothing of the Excel except what I have heard and it was all good. I have a D10 Magnum that I like very much. It is a great guitar and sounds and plays about as good as any guitar I have. I am a diehard Emmons guitar player but I really enjoy playing the Magnum and have no plans to ever sell the one I have. It appears to me that you are in good shape with either one you choose.
Jerry

David Higginbotham · Post by **David Higginbotham** » 11 Dec 2012 7:05 pm

Jerry Roller stated:

I have a D10 Magnum that I like very much. It is a great guitar and sounds and plays about as good as any guitar I have. I am a diehard Emmons guitar player but I really enjoy playing the Magnum and have no plans to ever sell the one I have. It appears to me that you are in good shape with either one you choose.
Jerry

Jerry is one of the most knowledgeable members on the forum and very sincere and helpful in all his posts. I certainly did not intend to infer that the Magnum was an inferior guitar as it is not! Fine instrument indeed. Just stating that between the two provided that the mechanical and cosmetic conditions were equal, I would choose the Excel. As Jerry stated, you can't go wrong with either...
Dave

Stan Paxton · Post by **Stan Paxton** » 11 Dec 2012 7:22 pm

Just to keep things interesting, another factor to consider. If I'm not mistaken, the builder of Magnum guitars is no longer in business; Excell builder is still in business. ...Everything being equal,both finely built, both fine playing and sounding, would that difference be an aspect in your decision making, from service/parts standpoint. ...I recently considered a Magnum myself. So, one has to look at every angle as to what is better for oneself. ...

Bent Romnes · Post by **Bent Romnes** » 11 Dec 2012 8:04 pm

Bob, I build the BenRom pedal steel right here in Ontario. Take a look at the BenRom link below. I just might be able to deliver what you are looking for.

Walt Miller · Post by **Walt Miller** » 12 Dec 2012 5:15 am

I am new to playing pedal steel also and through talking to one of the members Mr. Al Vessal I decided to go with a Zum Stage One. For 1100.00 you have a brand new pedal steel and someone to answer for it if something isn't right . They also hold their value and snapped up off the forum fast when your ready to upgrade .
I am sure both steels you mentioned are great and I am in no shape to comment on either but research and find out whats best for you . Al was certainly a factor in my decision about the stage one
Good Luck

Bob Gallant · Post by **Bob Gallant** » 12 Dec 2012 8:08 pm

Thanks everyone, Excel will be mine.

Bob G