Hello all.

I looked in the archives for information on this topic, and it was really thin. I am just wondering if the construction of Collings guitars has changed in any significant ways over the years. Would it be fair to characterize older instruments as superior/inferior to newer ones, aside from the obviously beneficial effects of age on the tone?

To be even more specific, I have been a big fan of Collings dreads just because it's my favorite size guitar for my playing style and needs. Does anyone have information on how dread construction has changed over the years?

Thanks for your help. I'm delaying purchase of an early '90s dread until I get more info on this.

Ernie

From what I know, they have changed a good bit. They use a different bridge pin since 2002, they are heavier now (which Bill claims makes them sound better over the long haul) and they use a different bridge now (very slight but noticable). A friend had his 1999 bridge replaced by Collings when he thought it may need a neck reset. Those are some of the things I "know".

The newer bridge have a thinker slot for a thicker saddle as well! I think it all happened in 2002. A thinker saddle and unslotted bridge pins in the new bridge.

I am sure theres changes here and there thoughout the year and it seems to me that they are getting better and better. Guitars seems to be heavier now and Bill claims that the guitar will open up better in the long run!

Ernie,

I don't know what you found in your archive search, but here are some speculative threads about the weight of Collings guitar:

http://collingsforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/7476048...706079393#2706079393

http://collingsforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/7476048...301013492#5301013492

http://collingsforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/7476048.../144105589#144105589

Ernie,

My experience is that if you call Collings or send them an email they are always ready to help out. I would think Steve or Alex or Brian would be able to tell you what has changed and why. Good luck.

B