Is the Travelcaster Deluxe Right for You? (Review)
Introduction
The Travelcaster Deluxe is a unique electric guitar designed for musicians on the go. This travel-sized instrument from Traveler Guitar promises full-scale playability in a compact, airline-friendly package. But does the Travelcaster Deluxe live up to the hype? Let’s delve deeper and see if this guitar is the perfect companion for your next adventure.
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany neck-thru with detachable ash wings
- Scale Length: 25.5″ (full scale)
- Neck: Mahogany with rosewood fingerboard
- Frets: 22 medium jumbo
- Pickups: 3x single-coil pickups (or 2x humbuckers depending on model)
- Controls: 1x volume, 2x tone, 5-way pickup selector (or 3-way)
- Bridge: Chrome hardware with adjustable saddles (vibrato or fixed bridge depending on model)
- Tuners: Chrome 14:1 gear ratio
- Weight: 5 lbs. 3 oz.
- Length: 33.75 in.
- Case: Included gig bag
Pros:
- Unmatched Portability: The Travelcaster Deluxe’s biggest selling point is its compact size. It fits neatly into the included gig bag, making it a breeze to carry on airplanes or store in tight spaces.
- Full-Scale Playability: Unlike many travel guitars that compromise on scale length, the Travelcaster Deluxe boasts a full 25.5″ scale, offering the same playing experience as a standard electric guitar. This is a major advantage for guitarists who don’t want to adjust their technique while traveling.
- Surprisingly Good Sound: The mahogany body and single-coil pickups (or humbuckers depending on the model) deliver a surprising amount of tone for a travel guitar. You won’t get the rich sustain of a full-bodied Les Paul, but the Travelcaster Deluxe can produce everything from clean, shimmering cleans to punchy overdrive.
- Comfortable Neck: The mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard feels smooth and comfortable to play. The medium jumbo frets are well-dressed and offer a good balance of playability and speed.
- Versatile Electronics: The Travelcaster Deluxe comes equipped with a standard set of controls, including a volume knob, two tone knobs, and a 5-way pickup selector (or 3-way depending on the model). This allows for a wide range of tonal options, making the guitar suitable for a variety of musical styles.
- Built-in Vibrato (Optional): Some models of the Travelcaster Deluxe feature a built-in vibrato system, adding another layer of sonic possibilities for players who love to bend notes and create expressive whammy bar effects.It
Cons:
- Unique Body Shape: The headless design and lack of a traditional body take some getting used to. Finding a comfortable playing position, especially while standing, can be a challenge at first.
- Limited Body Resonance: Due to its compact size and lightweight construction, the Travelcaster Deluxe naturally has less body resonance compared to a full-sized guitar. This can translate to a slightly thinner and less complex tone.
- Output Jack Placement: The output jack is located on the back of the body, which can be awkward for some players who are accustomed to a side-mounted jack.
- Higher Price Point: Travel guitars tend to be more expensive than their full-sized counterparts due to the specialized design and engineering. The Travelcaster Deluxe is no exception, and some players might find the price tag a bit steep.
Who Should Buy the Travelcaster Deluxe?
The Travelcaster Deluxe is a great choice for:
- Traveling Musicians: Guitarists who frequently travel for gigs, vacations, or songwriting sessions will appreciate the portability and convenience of the Travelcaster Deluxe.
- Apartment Dwellers: Living in a small space? The Travelcaster Deluxe takes up minimal storage space and allows you to practice without disturbing your neighbors.
- Students and Beginners: The Travelcaster Deluxe is a good option for students or beginners who need a portable and easy-to-play instrument.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
- Gigging Professionals: If you rely on your guitar for professional gigs and demand a full-bodied sound, the Travelcaster Deluxe might not be the best choice.
- Traditionalists: Players who prefer the look and feel of a classic electric guitar might find the Travelcaster Deluxe’s headless design to be a bit unconventional.
Conclusion:
The Traveler Guitar Travelcaster Deluxe is a well-made and surprisingly versatile travel guitar. It offers a compelling blend of portability, playability, and decent sound quality, making it a great option for musicians who need a guitar that can keep up with their adventurous lifestyle. While there are some limitations due to its size and design, the Travelcaster Deluxe excels as a travel companion and practice instrument. If you’re a guitarist who prioritizes convenience and can appreciate its unique features, the Travelcaster Deluxe is definitely worth considering.
I don’t have this model, but I have The Speedster and Escape MK-II Nylon made by Traveler Guitars. And I have to confirm the highest quality of the instruments of this company.
