Alvarez DY57 Guitar Review

Complete Guitar Review Archive | Submit Review

Price Paid for Alvarez DY57:

$500 USD

Description of Alvarez DY57:

Built in 1978. Dreadnought shape with Spruce top with Mahogany sides and back.

Alvarez DY57 Tone Rating:

8/10

Comments about Alvarez DY57 Tone:

Moderate to bright sound that is sweet when fingerpicked and full-bodied when flatpicked. I put in a Fishman Matrix piezo pickup with an active preamp in 1997. I have played it both through a Crate CA125D, as well as plugging it direct when performing live. Recently, I purchased the Fishman Aura "Sound Imaging" device, which has literally taken my Alvarez to a new level in live sound.

Alvarez DY57 Quality Rating:

9/10

Comments about Alvarez DY57 Quality:

I purchased my Alvarez in 1981. It has gone through hell and back with me. It's always been my primary guitar, and I have played consistently since purchasing it. Several have complained about the action. I never had that problem. In fact, about 4 months ago, I had the action raised after switching to medium-gauge strings.

Alvarez DY57 Overall Rating:

8/10

Alvarez DY57 Pros:

For guitars, I have a Fender Telecaster and two National Resophonic guitars. To this day, my little ole' Alvarez DY57 has been my most played instrument. I've played a myriad of acoustic guitars, and have always come back to it. It's strong and full when played with a flatpick or fingerpicks, and as sweet as ever when fingerpicked. Soundmen have told me how excellent the guitar sounds in live performance.

Alvarez DY57 Cons:

Not all that attractive a guitar.

Submitted by: Scott Jaynes
Playing Experience: over ten years
Musical Tastes: blues, country, folk