Is The Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon Guitar Worth It?
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Introduction
Are you a globetrotting guitarist tired of sacrificing your instrument for travel convenience? Look no further than the Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon, a revolutionary guitar designed for on-the-go musicians. This in-depth review will explore everything you need to know about Ultra-Light Nylon, from its innovative design and features to its sound quality and playability. Whether you’re a seasoned classical player or a casual nylon-string enthusiast, this review will help you decide if the Ultra-Light Nylon is the perfect travel companion for your musical journeys.
I own two instruments of the Traveler company: Speedster Travel Guitar and Escape Nylon MK-II. And I cane testify the highest quality standards of its production.
Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon: Key Features at a Glance
- Full-Scale Nylon Neck: Unlike many travel guitars that compromise on scale length, the Ultra-Light Nylon boasts a full 24.75″ scale neck, providing the same playing experience as a standard classical guitar.
- Proprietary In-Body Tuning System: The innovative design relocates the tuning machines into the guitar body, eliminating the need for a traditional headstock. This results in a significantly shorter overall length without sacrificing playability.
- Compact and Lightweight: The Ultra-Light Nylon lives up to its name, weighing in at under 3 lbs and measuring just 28 inches long. This makes it easy to stow in overhead compartments or backpacks, eliminating airline check-in hassles.
- Removable Lap Rest: For added comfort during playing sessions, the Ultra-Light Nylon features a detachable lap rest. This can be easily removed for even more compact storage when travelling.
- Acoustic-Electric Capabilities: Equipped with a built-in Traveler piezo pickup and a standard 1/4″ output jack, the Ultra-Light Nylon allows you to plug into an amp or recording device for amplified playing or silent practice.
- Gig Bag Included: The guitar comes with a padded gig bag for secure transportation and protection.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Available in Mahogany or Maple
- Neck Material: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Ebony
- Scale Length: 24.75″
- Number of Frets: 22
- Electronics: Traveler piezo pickup, 1/4″ output jack
- Weight: Under 3 lbs
- Length: 28 inches
- Includes: Gig bag
Pros and Cons of the Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon
Pros:
- Ultra-Portable: The compact size and lightweight design make the Ultra-Light Nylon the perfect travel companion for guitarists on the go.
- Full-Scale Playability: Unlike many travel guitars, the Ultra-Light Nylon offers a full-scale neck for a familiar and comfortable playing experience.
- Durable Construction: Despite its lightweight nature, the Ultra-Light Nylon is built to withstand the rigours of travel with a solid wood body and a durable neck.
- Acoustic-Electric Versatility: The built-in pickup allows you to play acoustically or plug into an amp for amplified performances or recording.
- Highly Rated by Users: With a 4.6-star rating on the Traveler Guitar website, the Ultra-Light Nylon is a favourite among travelling guitarists.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: Compared to some standard classical guitars, the Ultra-Light Nylon carries a premium price tag due to its innovative design and portability features.
- Unique Body Shape: The headless design and smaller body might take some getting used to for players accustomed to traditional classical guitars.
- Limited Tone Options: As a nylon-string guitar, the Ultra-Light Nylon offers a specific tonal range. If you require a wider variety of sounds, you might need a separate steel-string travel guitar.
Is the Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon Right for You?
The Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon is ideal for guitarists who prioritize portability and playing comfort while travelling. Whether you’re a professional musician taking your instrument on tour or a casual player who enjoys strumming on vacation, the Ultra-Light Nylon offers a solution that won’t weigh you down (literally).
However, if budget is a major concern, or if you’re strictly a studio musician with no travel needs, a traditional classical guitar might be a more cost-effective option. Additionally, if you require the versatility of both nylon and steel strings for your playing style, you might need to consider a separate travel guitar for each string type.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon
Q: How does the headless design affect playability?
A: While the lack of a headstock might feel unconventional at first, most players adjust quickly to the Ultra-Light Nylon’s design. The full-scale neck ensures familiar
Q: Is the built-in pickup good for live performances?
A: The Traveler piezo pickup provides a decent amplified sound quality, suitable for smaller gigs or informal performances. However, for professional stage use, consider adding an external sound system or preamp for enhanced control and tonal shaping.
Q: How does the Ultra-Light Nylon handle tuning stability?
A: The in-body tuning system utilizes standard tuning machines, so you can expect the same level of tuning stability as a traditional guitar. Travelers also report that the compact design helps minimize tuning issues caused by temperature fluctuations during travel.
Q: What kind of gig bag comes with the Ultra-Light Nylon?
A: The included gig bag is padded for basic protection and features straps for easy carrying. However, if you plan on extensive travel or prefer a more robust case, you might consider purchasing a hard-shell case separately.
Q: Are there any left-handed versions of the Ultra-Light Nylon available?
A: Unfortunately, Traveler Guitar currently does not offer a left-handed version of the Ultra-Light Nylon.
Q: How does the Ultra-Light Nylon compare to other travel guitars?
A: The Ultra-Light Nylon stands out for its full-scale neck, which many travel guitars compromise on. Additionally, its acoustic-electric capabilities and lightweight design make it a versatile option for travelling musicians. However, depending on your needs and budget, there are other travel guitar options available, including steel-string models or even smaller-bodied travel guitars that prioritize extreme portability over full-scale playability. It’s recommended to research and compare features before making your choice.
Q: Where can I buy the Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon?
A: The Ultra-Light Nylon can be purchased directly from Traveler Guitar’s website https://travelerguitar.com/pages/ultra-light-series as well as from authorized retailers that sell musical instruments.
Conclusion
The Traveler Ultra-Light Nylon Guitar offers a compelling solution for guitarists who value portability and playing comfort without sacrificing playability. While the price point might be slightly higher than some traditional guitars, the innovative design and features make it a worthy investment for frequently travelling musicians. By considering the pros, cons, and FAQs addressed in this review, you can make an informed decision on whether the Ultra-Light Nylon is the perfect travel companion for your musical adventures.
