Who is Esteban? And what's up with his guitars?

Some content on the extra-odd web page looks similar to the sort posted by porn sites attempting to attract the attention of search engines. The page contains a link for "NUDECHILDREN" which actually delivers you to a page ostensibly on that topic. This page contains only more of the same sort of noise. The site may have been built by someone who also builds porn sites and didn't want to start from scratch.
 

"Post A Comment About Dildo-bike"
Hahahaha... That site is WACK!
 

Considering how Segovia hated sound re-enforcement, I very much doubt he would have approved of selling guitars as a package with an amplifier!

Why does anyone need an amp to learn acoustic guitar anyway??

Check on the "kamasutra photos" link on the main page esteban-guitar.info site too.
It leads to a page with picture of one of the nanoscale guitars made by people at Cornell University. Very strange.
 

You need an amplifier to learn acoutic guiatr because you aren't sophisticated enough to know you don't.
 

And I, evidently, am not sophisticated enough to spell "guitar." sigh
 

I like the contents of his starter kit:

"Extra strings, picks, straps and alien key"

Wow!!
 

Interesting to see so few bad comments about his guitar since he has sold thousands and backs them with a money back guarantee!Also keep in mind like a restusrant in the "Big Apple" you do not last five years on any tv shopping network if the product sucks!
And for you idiots who think he can"t play, you should have been at THE MOHEGAN SUN on monday night Oct 10 for his sold out show. Ive have been to concerts all over the world and have been in the music business for over 35 years,and honestly have to say that the (2) two hour performance with (3)three standing ovations was the the most inspiring musical event I have ever experienced.Is he the greatest musician in the world? Maybe not!Does he commercialize himself on TV? maybe so! So I guess we can put him in the likes of Mick Jagger the biggest " commercialised money making machine" in the music business.Hurray for the USA and the freedom which allows a person to succeed. As the late Ricky Nelson once said "You cant please everyone,so you got to please. yourself"
 

Esteban Rules!
- Stevie B.
 

"You got to please yourself": right, and Estie is pleasing himself with the money of unwitting aspiring guitarists and their kindly grandmothers.

I once passed Henny Youngman leaving the ticket counter at La Guardia airport. He winked at me. I'm planning now to sell the Duvid (Henny gave me that name based on the Anglicized version, David) Violin Package. The instrument is hand made from recycled gefilte fish jars by expert craftsmen in the alleys of Hester Street.
 

"You got to please yourself": right, and Estie is pleasing himself with the money of unwitting aspiring guitarists and their kindly grandmothers.

I once passed Henny Youngman leaving the ticket counter at La Guardia airport. He winked at me. I'm planning now to sell the Duvid (Henny gave me that name based on the Anglicized version, David) Violin Package. The instrument is hand made from recycled gefilte fish jars by expert craftsmen in the alleys of Hester Street.
 

Esteban is good at playing chords. His violin player used to be very attractive and still has a nice chest, but she's since gained a signifant amount of weight. Playing for a legend such as Esteban, anyone would gain weight living the lifestyle of wealth and luxury. Does Estie sell his famous black plastic hat on HSN? Someone told me it's nothing more than a cheap prop hat, but I've been looking everywhere for his signature hat with conchos. Esteban's black puffy shirts are also quite fashionable, though very uncommon. With any luck, Esteban will start selling his own line of clothing and accessories, such as sunglasses.
 

I used to listen to this guy all the time at the lobby bar at the Hyatt Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Greatest lobby bar and best lobby bar musician ever paired up together.

Too bad he had to become a bigshot and give up his regular gig.
 

this is a great guitar to kabong some one with. i am sick of old aunt sallys buying this for there young nethfew. the reason there are little returns who qwants to tell there aunt that there prtesent relly sucks
 

I am a professional guitar with a degree in guitar performance, have been playing guitar almost my entire life, and have a few guitars of extremely high quality and price. For some reason, my mom (who is addicted to QVC/HSN) thought it would be nice to buy me one of these Esteban guitars for christmas last year (very strange because 'santa' hasn't given me a gift in quite some time, and also because she's witnessed first hand how picky i can be when purchasing guitars).

Anyway, i was surprised to say the least and have no idea what to do with the guitar. It's sort of obnoxious to play: the fretboard is made from extremely cheap wood and not finished properly, so it feels like sandpaper, and I can't sell it because it would break my mom's heart (also the resale value isn't enough to cover gas to and from the guitar shop).

I'm assuming that this situation happens to lots of HSN-addicted moms/aunts/grandma's who have a guitarist in their lives that they love very much. I can't imagine how else so many have been sold.

Also, the instructional DVD's included are worth watching for a laugh. Esteban's tone is terribly inconsistent, and he buzzes strings pretty often. There's even a part where he is demonstrating a pentatonic scale, plays a wrong note, and starts over... and they don't even bother editing it out!
 

I don't know who the poster who calls himself 'Stevie B' is, but I can ASSURE you, it is NOT me! Geez, I guess Im gonna have to jetison the handle. My aunt will be so disapointed...


There is no way I would EVER listen to Esteban's drivel. NEVER.

-Steve (The artist FORMERLY known as StevieB) Boudreaux
 

I've been seeing this "Esteban" informercial on American TV for serveral months. I was curious to what he was all about so I Googled (is that a word now) Esteban informercial and found this website.

The posts are absoultely hilarious. The Henny Youngman reference had me laughing out loud. The plastic hat comment was great too. I still don't know how Steve "Esteban" got his props from Segovia, but just the creation of this blog makes it worthwhile for me. Well done boys, Well done!
 

I'm tired of playing air guitar and wondered if an Esteban guitar would be more satisfying. From the comments, it sounds just like what I need. LOL
 

I received the Esteban Black and Silver acoustic guitar and amp today. I've been playing guitar for a few years. I received guitar #15,000 which I though was kind'a cool. Everything from the amp to the guitar plays fine. I am very pleased with the guitar. I will keep it and continue to use it. Thank You, and as Mr. Esteban says, "Rock On." Michael P.
 

Oops, the guitar I received is #12,089 and not #15,000. Either way, I think the Black and Silver plays nice and is a great bargain. Again, "Rock On." Michael P.
 

test
 

Give Esteban a break!!!

Most of you all sound so jealous!
He's selling ENTRY level guitars,so what? Get over it!
99 percent of guitars just end up in closets anyway. Why not start with an inexpensive one (playable, but inexpensive) If the kid takes to it, then maybe invest in a better one.

There are no victims here! Let the guy make a buck in the USA
 

esteban has a hat that is 100% teh ghey.

That is all.
 

I bought Estebans Beginners Guitar Course c/w 2 DVD's. I have spent a fortune on Internet guitar courses ... and maybe that says all you need to know about me! But get this ... his is far and away the best value, the most FUN and it's actually instructive. I'm no Segovia after his package but I can play some beautiful songs in neat arrangements and I couldn't get that far with any of the others. I've still got a long way to go!
Rock On Esteban
 

I want to like the guy, but even HSN has allowed people to Blog how crappy his guitars are!

Being a guitar player for all my life, I was looking for a guitar to give my daughter for Xmas without blowing my wad.

I ended up buying a guitar from ebay here: http://stores.ebay.com/NATIONAL-MUSIC-SUPPLY-BUY-NOW-STORE

I had low expectations, but the thing ROCKED!!!! Ir was only $40! It wasn't my '72 Strat, but I can't imagine Estaban doing any better with what I've read. (No I don't work for them).
 

I have been a professional musician and guitar instructor since 1968. I am also a guitar tech. The Esteban guitars are not even close to being worth the price. His "instructions" are ridiculous and he is a mediocre player at best. You can buy far better entry level guitars for less money. It's no wonder the guy disguises himself.
BBK
 

The 'Esteban Hate Thread' is at 1000 comments over at megadeth.com's forums. Esteban is a joke, liar and thief.
 

I love the "musicians" who have tried to defend him. One is a collector at 19 and the other is also a fan of Greg Brady err Johnny Bravo. Composite means particle board. There is a high percentage that they actually contain crap. Put that in your Kids hands.
 

I heard a Kal David interview on a podcast recently.

His voice is ESTEBAN's voice! I swear!

Kal David is a jazz guitarist - about the same age, etc. Check out his website. I'd know that "Esteban" voice anywhere....

No wonder he doesn't take off his glasses....

hmmmm.....
 

Here's the link to the podcast I heard:

http://distantcreations.com/insidethemagic/

Go to the podcast area and click on Show #97 - you'll hear his voice & agree - it's Esteban's voice!
 

Any good guitar would have an ALLEN KEY (I don't know where you got alien key) to adjust the action of the guitar's neck. I've seen many, many reports of poor action, warped necks etc., but that is what the key is for! Good grief! While the strings are loose, you reach just inside the guitar with the ALLEN key and tighten or loosen the neck to adjust the action. I'm sick of so called "experts" saying this guitar is crap, yet they don't know the use for the key. As for the amp... that is to help you feel more comfortable with your playing... to play more loudly for an audience... to practice. It isn't meant for headbanging.

So get over it. YOu are all just jealous that Esteban took a trial filled life and made something of it.
 

And by the way, Esteban was blinded his left eye in a baseball accident, then when he was hit by a drunk driver his right eye was left light sensitive. It's not a disguise, it's a necessity. Considering that he was also left with nerve damage in his left hand I think he plays remarkably well.

I love my Starlight guitar, and would buy from him again in a heartbeat.
 

First, the 5 DVD 'Lessons' that
are included w/some of the recent
Esteban 'Packages' being sold,
especially on HSN, who, btw, *now*
*owns* Ingenious Designs LLC, whom
HSN says, "...are the Maufacturers
of the 'Esteban' Guitar Pkgs...",
do *not*, IMHO, live up to all the
claims made and are sorely lacking
in *true* Professional Guitar
Instruction(s)and then upon realizing, after the 30 Day
Money Back Guarentee (*Less* S&H)
Return Policy, the aspiring novice
will find him/her self seeking a
Pro for instructions (lessons), and/or *if that option is cost
prohibitive*, trying to go it alone by purchasing do-it-yourself
(dyi) instuction books, at the
very least, or *if* they have the
means (money), buying *more* DVDs
or VHS tapes in the pursuit of
their dream/quest to learn and
hopefully, continue to pursue and
*persevere* in what will become a
lifetime that *is* filled with
the *True Gift of Music* - *After Going Through the Ordeals Above*.
Second, 'Esteban' Guitars will
vary...some will be made w/no
flaws in workmanship (outsourced
via China) whereas others will
be, as descibed here as well as
other places on the 'net, as
"...a piece of junk...".
Therefore, "Cavet Emptor" (Latin
for *Buyer Beware*. Also, take
the time to fully check out and
*become completely familar*
w/your purchase *before* your
30 Day, Money Back Gaurentee
(Less S&H) Return has expired and
all you've lost is some time well
spent and your S&H Return costs...
*including Insurance*, if total
worth of your purchase exceeds
the amount covered w/by your
method of Return - Check *their*
Coverage Policy(ies).
Hope this Comment has been
informative and helpful.
Wishing Each of You the Best,
A Professional Musician (who would
leave an email addy if I had the time to respond - hoping input
above will suffice)
 

I have owned it, and my email is brutal.conversions@yahoo.com. I am a student guitarist. My wife got one from her dad, the black one. The guitar sounded decent, looked ok, for starter guitar. Id say its worth about $40. The case was worth more as you could stuff the estaban guitar in the closet or living room corner, and put a real guitar in the case. Anything that comes with a "certificate" or authentification or autograph from America is probably late night infomercial $19.99 closet stuffing.
 

You are all funny, and informative...thanks for the laugh??
 

This guitar is a piece of junk. The strings are heavy gauge, and hurt my fingers after only a few minutes of playing. Also, the action is terrible (the striings are farther from the fretboard than they should be). I wouldn't recommend this guitar to anyone.
 

esteban or steve is truly a american icon. there is nothing better than kicking back after a night of binge drinking,and watching esteban work his magic. his hands must have supernatural healing powers (or something). the knife show isn't that bad ether at 4am blazed out of your head, but thats off topic. i love esteban, and when i decide to start playing the guitar ill probably get one of his(or on as cheep as his). oh yeah has anyone seen the "starlight artist series" the back of that thing has a freaking sweet commit flying across the back of it. i would totally get one if i wanted to spend over 200 on a axe
 

Esteban's new album "I was in an Accident You Know"

http://www.westfordcomp.com/esteban/esteban.html
 

Well, Thank you to the anonymous guy that said I was an amazing player. I'm really not.
Err, at any rate, why does he pretend to be a spanish/flamenco/latin guitar player, but on every infomercial I see he is playing pseudo country tunes. He's from Pittsburg?! hehe.
Oh well, at least it's not Mississippi (sorry to anyone who reads that, but it could be worse. You Mississippians could be from Louisiana).

Armik and David Burgess are guitarists you should look into if you want to know what your Esteban guitar should sound like. ;-)

But I also saw an infomercial with his daughter playing violin with him. I didn't actually hear anything she played, BUT, she looked like a cute hispanic girl from where I was standing. So did he marry a hispanic woman, or adopt? Not to pry into his celebrity personal life, but he definitely is not hispanic at all.

Well, rock on, everybody. . . or samba on. . . [cough] tango.
 

Hearing the music is just fine,Beautiful, why would anyone have all of this negativity stuff any way?
I am very impressed the with sound of the guitar, and as far as the MAN is concerned , God some people really are sorry asses.I will continue to learn more about this.Look into things on your own, and not the rambling opinions of others.Esteban is one smart Man ,and I am impressed with that. A.J.R. Cape coral Fl.
 

So much of the negativity rises up from jealousy..
The guitar I just received, for $179. (don't forget that includes the DVD lessons, case, practice amp, other accessories), was an outstanding awesome buy!
The simpler songs on his commercial are there for a reason.. dumbo..90% of the watching public have never seen nor played anything in the Classical Guitar Line! Remember..his information is just what he says..to introduce Guitar music and get people..TO LEARN..duh.
Now for the Segovia thing..if you know anything about him..you should also note that Segovia besides complementing Esteban...also named a good ol' country boy named Chet Atkins as being one of the best Guitarists in the World! So hence the theory that Segovia, who was a true Classical Purist, actually did appreciate other Guitar Players.
If you bought one of his courses..played it through..at the end of Vol 1..a Great Surprise of one actual Live performance of the Fantastic Talented Esteban..will surely change your mind..if you know anything about actually playing any music at all...
I have played many great guitars,Expensive Guitars.. Gibson, Fender,etc..yes expensive..good...the tone of the Esteban Guitar I just received is excellent, the action for this axe, also ecellent, the Esteban Guitar, dollar for dollar, is Extremely EXCELLENT!
His teaching method..(yes I once took actual music lessons...and got bored) should really lift up a lot of kids spirits to find that they can actually learn to play actual songs easily if they will pay attention to his presentations! His Guitars and Course certainly are a work of art to help lift up new comers on their way to playing the Guitar..What's wrong with that?
I can say truthfully I am encouraged once again to play. Thanks Esteban..Rock On! You have a great thing goin on..not only for your future..but for the future of those kids, men and women, who want something better in their life...music!
I am not ashamed of taking this guitar along with my others to any future gig! It plays and sounds Great! The Man..Esteban is a Master Guitarist..I'm sure you would like to be as good..I know I would.
 

My favorite "caller" on the Esteban late night infomercial:

"I just thank God every day for Esteban, and keep him in my prayers that he will continue bringing his music to the world"

Every day.
 

Yeah, I think the comments here are generally overbearingly negative. Esteban seems to be a world-class guitarist. His New Age CD just landed at #1 on the charts and he is very talented. I received the Black Cutaway guitar with the 5 DVDs of lessons, the case, amp and extra accessories. While the amp is a little cheap, I've been extremely happy with the guitar. And as far as the DVDs, Esteban is more thorough and teaches far more than any other instructional videos that are out there. He starts very basic and builds upon each respective lesson helping you to add to what you've already learned. I think his guitars are great for the beginner to intermediate player and for those of you who are poo-pooing his playing.....well that's just plain stupid because, quite obviously, the man has a lot of talent. This thread, as I said earlier, is way too negative, and, in this reviewer's opinion, just plain wrong the majority of the time.
 

My father-in-law bought one for his son. The pick guard is a sticker.
 

Not sure If I'm the only one that noticed but in the most recent Esteban infomercial I saw they would usually use a camera angle that obscured the headstock for closeups and use wide shots where the logo on the headstock was not visible.

Bottom line... I don't think Esteban is playing his own faulty piece of crap in the ad.

In fact my friend's acoustic/electric Yamaha looks EXACTLY like Esteban's guitar. Could that be what he's playing?
 

Don't forget about the woman who called in (During the HSN program,)
and claimed she was getting rid of her Taylor guitar to buy Estabie's
guitar...unbelievable.
I Usually avoid products that are 'over-sold' through advertising; including'Unfortunately' any NEW Taylor guitar, that's sold with it's expression system pickup, rather than the original Fishman pickups. They suck...
 

I have had my Esteban steel string guitar for 2 weeks. I have no problems to report and the sound of this instrument is very very nice. I have been using the instructional DVD and I like that as well. All in all I am very happy with my new guitar.
Did I mention that the sound is amazing?
 

I've had my Estabn Guitar for maybe a year now, and I have no problems with it.
I've never owned another guitar. but this one seems very nice.
And its fine for a entry level guitarist such as myself.
I love my esteban guitar.
My guitar teahcer also loves it (and he owns a fender). but he is a horrible teacher, his book is not informitive. But the guitar is sick.
 

I agree with the posts that the negative comments are from people who know close to nothing about guitars, or Esteban.
Since he lives in my area, he ocassionally plays at a local venue that holds about 60 people. I have seen him play there 3 times, and spoken with him after each show. He is a guitar virtuoso and a gentlemen. I brought other serious guitar player friends with me to the shows and they were blown away. before you condemn someone, do your research.
I have about a dozen guitars, Gibson, Fender etc. Just ordered the Esteban 57 chevy model. It's worth the $200 just as a conversation piece, but I have a feeling it wil be playable. If not, it will go back.
 

This really makes me wish I'd asked him to take a picture with me when I ran into him this past summer. I stopped in Santa Fe for the first time ever (during a cross-country drive) and I decided to explore Canyon Road (famous for its 100 or so art galleries)

Turned out he has a gallery/showroom/sales/house(?) there. I popped in and looked around and as I was leaving, there he was shambling about and picking up some garbage from his yard or something? (or was he checking he mail?) I only barely recognized him because I had seen him on an infomercial or something one time.

He didn't seem in a super good mood so I didn't say anything.
 

I ordered the 5 dvd instructional with guitar,amp etc and 1st. it comes with an ALLEN key. If you havent figured out how to use that you are in worse shape than me! I've been learning on a beautiful acoustic and I love the sound of it.I have been stuck in a rut, unable to move forward in my lessons. I caught Esteban's info commercial by accident but (not usually a channel I watch), I was motivated to buy the package and have received it 2 days ago. The guitar strings I did replace immediately! I am pleased with the sound of the guitar and although the amp is of lesser quality it is usable.

The lessons...I think they are great! I'm not trying to become a virtuoso or the latest rock n roll band. I just want to play for my own enjoyment. Within minutes of watching the tutorial, I was playing things that I did not know I could do.

Thank you Esteban...you have made me want to wake up and grab the guitar to continue practicing!
 

Well i got the cutaway guitar with the 5 dvds but the dvds didn't help at all i wish i would have got the american classic one it's better my friend has it. i guess i would recommend it b/c its good quality for an awesome price but only if u really really want to learn it.
 

a few random comments as to the quality of the guitar... 1) what does anyone expect for under $300? 2) tastes are subjective and 3) most of the negative posts seem to stem from frustrated musos. it bears mentioning that the majority of the guitars in the world are made by the same handful of mass-producers... and even when you get to the levels of avalons, larivees and manzers (high end handmade geetars that most of the people on this board have never played) the jury is out as to the quality of their tones, pickups, strings, actions, frets (delete as applicable) If you like it, play it and walk on. You don't like it, here's hoping you kept the receipt. If you're here because Esteban offends your higher sensibilities - nobody cares.
 

I've played guitar for about 15 years, I have a degree in music, and I teach guitar professionally but my well-wishing great-aunt was somehow duped into buying me one of these horrible guitars and a set of instructional DVDs. I have no idea what to do with all this crap. I own a dozen real guitars and don't need some cheap monstrosity sitting around gathering ugly dust. I've heard these things are hard to return. Does anyone have any insight into this? I kept the original packaging except for the main cardboard box.

Also, it's fine if you want to listen to this yo-yo's music but don't tell me he's 'just a guy trying to make a buck.' He's a slimy loser preying on, well, the kind of people that watch infomercials. People's aunts and grandmas, senile uncles, etc. If I ran some credit card scam targeting senior citizens, would you come to my defense?
 

i just got Esteban's El Dorado Cadillac model for xmas and its hilarious. i've been playing for a while and didn't need a guitar but i'm not going to say no to a free guitar as a gift. it came with 10 dvds and what i watched made me laugh pretty hard. the guitar seems just okay. the action is bad and it can't hold its tuning for @#$%. it doesn't even work with the dinky amp it came with and neither did my other acoustic. however, i plugged my bass in and rocked out with the overdrive. the best part is the case which is light and extremely strong. i checked it on an airplane and it came out without a scratch. i'm proud to see that Steve Paul is from Pittsburgh, my home, and i think i might make that Dildo Bike page my homepage.
 

Esteban is a funny funny man I dont blame him making money off of ignorance is great. I work in a music shop I just put down a taylor NS62 CE that I was fiddling with and this moron came and asked me to restring his guitar I looked at that marvelous estaban and he said and I quote, "You know its a good guitar because it says Esteban". there is only one thing that helps me keep my sanity I pretend to know absolutely nothing and agree with everything morons say but I am getting to the breaking point never buy esteban a 100 dollar johnson is infinetly better dont waste time or money giving it to the "World famous", well if the world consists of a Ramada Inn bar then yeah world famous Estaban. I have studied classical guitar for the last 7 years and jazz for a while longer this dork doesnt know anything about guitar please please never buy the guitar it doesnt have any value please dont
 

I'm completely guitar unskilled (unless you count the ability to play singe string), so I don't have much to say on the matter.
I don't have a guitar, but I may be getting one of these Esteban jobs.

Who knows, it may work out.
If not, oh well.
It's not like I'm blowing my life savings.

Short and simple, I have better things to worry about.
So, that in mind, I wonder what kind of lives (if any) the wide variety of complaining and slandering (technically libel) posters here live.

Have a nice day. ^_^


~Lev
 

you all who are talking crap about estebans guitars,you just have huge bad luck,I just sold all my other guitars because I didn't like them compared to an esteban guitar and it's a truly awesome guitar I bet if you were to order another one you would be satisfied because chances are that you will get a really nice and good one like I did. Although it only took one order for me so I recommend trying another esteban of your choice and like I said more than likely it'll be nice and durable to play. thanks for those of you who take me serious,because I take every little thing serious. And I mean serious when I say it.
 

I know nothing about music from an academic standpoint. Crap is crap and that's just personal preference based on personal music tastes. I have to say that I am blown away by Esteban! Not having cared about guitar music all my life, he is absolutely easy to like and listen to. Everytime I pass the QVC and he is on there, I stop. Good music and products like guitars are all just based on access and market timing. Who else is giving us a chance to appreciate the guitar with such humility? Prince? Wal-Mart? Segovia? Guitar Hero? I bought one of Esteban's guitar packages and it is awesome!!! I have reviewed the DVDs and of course I will likely never play as well as he makes it seem on his DVDs, but through our kids, we live our dreams. Guess what? My 7 y/o daughter is going to go to music school and play the guitar. Without Esteban the thought would not have even crossed my mind. Quality: I guess a $4000 guitar sounds better than a $250 guitar. If you can blow $4000 on a guitar, then what are you doing watching QVC? If you want a good guitar and $200 - $400 is your limit, then you better buy Esteban's because you wont beat his package and quality and deal at this price. That's a fact! Another fact: Regular Joe's like me think you music snobs who hate on Esteban suck more than you could ever know. So what he's not this or he's not that. Guess what? Neither or you! But he's on QVC and sold more than 500,000 guitars last year. How many did your talents allow you to sell? NONE? That's what I thought losers! If he sold 500,000 and 5,000 were bad, that's what 1%? Come on band geeks! I thought you were supposed to be good at math!?! Buy this guitar and have fun with it! If you can't play good music on this guitar, you probably can't play good music on any guitar, but at least you only blew $300 versus $3000. Hey I thought you band geeks were supposed to be good at math!?! Put down your bongs, turn off Guitar Hero, and pick up a calculator you losers!
 

After just reading every comment on this blog, its no wonder the world is going to hell in a handbasket! Its because of the negativity of sour pusses like most who have trashed Estaban and his guitar packages. You people sound like Athiests who never felt the Spirit of God! What the hell do you expect for a lousy 200 bucks? I am a 66 year old who has "tried" playing guitars since I was 12. I never studied music, don't know a note, or learned anything about music, except playing by ear. I play a harmonica, a Jews Harp, and have several Key Boards, as well as an $18,000 Yahaha 3 Deck Digital Orgon in my home. I just LOVE to Rap, ...by ear! I have owned many Guitars, over my years of messing around with them, and rapping with my friends, drinking a few beers, while playing "Wild Wood Flower"; House Of The Rising Sun", Greensleeves", etc. etc. I once owned a "VOX" solid double cutaway guitar, and played it for years. I have owned dozens of cheap acustic guitars such as Harmony, Silvertone, etc. I presently own an Ovation Acoustic Electric I bought at the Factory in Conn. 30 years ago, and paid a grand for it way back then! I own a Dean Solid electric guitar, that looks just like a Fender I once owned. I own a Johnson Dolby Blue Grass guitar. With all that said, I never could play with the learned musicians, because I don't read notes, or music. I play by ear! But I just quit playing becuse my fingers got stiff, and the steel strings hurt my fingers. I never tried playing Classical or Flamingo music, using my finger nails as picks, and strumming from the bottom strings up, UNTIL I saw Estabon's Infermertials. I finally caved in and bought his latest black guitar package from HSN that has all the green fancy inlays on the front and back of the guitar. It has nylon strings, and I am amazed at how easy they are to play, as compared to steel strings. Man, that little 10 Watt Amp is great to carry in my car to bring to my friends when we rap, instead of donkeying my large 200 Amp. double 12" Jenson Speakered Amp around with me. The case that the guitar came in is worth at least $50 to me! I just lOVE the guitar, as it sounds great, looks like a creation of Art, that I enjoy looking at, even if I still can't play like Estaban, but I am trying to follow his excellent 10 DVD Instuction course, taking snale steps, and guess what? Shit, I finally leanred how to tune my guitars by listening to his first DVD!!! I sound 100% better, now, with tuned guitars! Give Estaban a break, you negative jealous musicians that haven't ever felt his Spirit of sharing his Music with those of us who have just given up on trying to play, but were revived to again, enjoying the gift of playing a guitar! And, I am even again playing my organ, harmonica, and keyboards, all becuse of Estabon's HSN Infermertials sharing his Gift of Music with the masses. Rock On, Bro! The Chinese are kicking our butts, manufacturing playable guitars for a fraction of the cost of what Americans will sell them for!

Jim Sutherland,
California, USA
 

got an esteban (granada) cutaway about 2 weeks ago - was flipping thru channels & he was playing malaguena & i *LOVE* that song -- so i tuned in. the hype over the guitar was over the top -- stated that it played better than a $3,000 guitar & people go on tour with that guitar (I'd like to know who!) & it would last more than a lifetime & pass thru the generations.... the guitar esteban was playing sounded *amazing* (IMO!) -- and I was totally sucked in. I was supposed to receive an acoustic/electric guitar -- I didn't (acoustic only). The guitar was supposed to be new --it *wasn't* !! (according to a few people I took it to, to tune it for me - it was clearly *used*!). And the wood is inferior & all knotty - which I was told was a no-no for guitars. It was an impulse buy, with the timer ticking away & the statement that it would be the only time the guitar would be offered this year. come to find out -- you can go to HSN's website & purchase the guitar package ANY time! liars. out and out liars - both HSN & esteban.

SO -- there is a *serious* problem with false advertisement. I certainly did not receive the guitar that esteban was *selling* - not even close!! BUT - I am going to keep it. why? it *is* playable & even though I have to constantly re-tune it - it is a snap with the electronic tuner I picked up from my local music store. I could have bought a *much* better guitar, for $30- cheaper (vast difference in sound quality!) - but it would not include all the extras (case, dvd instructions, amp). So all in all - I basically got what I paid for, i think. and intend on restringing it soon.

ok - now for some plusses -- i LOVE listening to music (thousands & thousands of cd's) but had always considered myself musically retarded with playing - and i was tortured with piano lessons as a kid & was mechanical at best with stupid stupid tunes that i was forced to play. i have NEVER wanted to play guitar in my life - never! then along comes esteban & HSN -- and as i said, i was sucked in-- totally. and i do not regret it at all - i am now *FREAKIN'* playing malaguena & it sounds pretty good (better than anything I plonked out after 4 years on the piano - with weekly private instruction, to boot). ok, i have to rewind the dvd a zillion times to try & figure out what it was esteban was playing & then practice a ton - but it is very rewarding & I can frickin' do it. I'm not so interested in most of the other songs on the dvd's - but now I have the instrument & *motivation* to find other beginning lessons for the spanish/classical guitar -- and the confidence that i might actually be able to play! with the full expectation of getting a *good* guitar in the future (*not* an esteban, btw!)

In short - a week with my esteban package undid 4 years of scarring & i *want* to play. slam him all you want because he unabashedly misrepresents his product (which includes himself, apparently) - and he SHOULD be called out for this *unethical* behavior & people should know you do NOT get what you see & hear - nothing of the sort! shame on you stephen! tsk tsk. but - you *do* get something that is enough to get you started - and for some - that is enough.
 

ok, this in response to darrell - who said
So what he's not this or he's not that. Guess what? Neither or you!

i don't think the other people here are MISREPRESENTING products to the masses & making a lot of $ off of *exploiting* the naive. some people can recognize snake oil & guess what? it pisses them off.

if stephen came off as something more along the lines of 'i'm just a regular dude who can teach you to play some beginning music with a cheap, but affordable guitar' then i doubt there would be much backlash. it is the FALSE claims that are disturbing & hey - some people have that old fashioned idea called 'ethics'. stephen checked those at the HSN door.
 

I repair guitars for a living. When somebody brings in an Esteban product, I just laugh, because I know how much fun we're going to have groaning over it's CHEAP EL-CRAPPO FLAKEY PAINT PLYWOOD AND RUSTY JAGGED-ENDED FRETTED PIECE OF IMPORTED KINDLING.

Esteban can really play the guitar well. Which JUST GOES TO PROVE that being talented doesn't qualify you for sainthood. My guess is that he's going straight to hell, for fruad.
 

Okay Band Geeks... Darrell is back! Put down your weed, your meth, your acid, and your notepads with pages and pages of little symbols that don't mean a RAT'S ASS to real cool people like me. Turn that light on in your studio or in your mom's basement or her garage or her storage shed or wherever you numbnuts like to jam out at. Put down the paint cans and thinner and butane. Try to follow along...take it slow. Raise the garage door; let in some fresh air.

So, your rebuttal to all the heavy science I laid out in my last message was - "Well you're an idiot." Oh okay. My bad. Then in that case I take back my comments. The strength of your rebuttal leaves me stunned, dazed, and, willing to admit my error.

The veracity of your loquacious idiom seems to prove my previous points. See I think you dorks are all just crying that your bong is empty and your real niffy ditties and rocking tunes (translation: crappy attitude and lack of talent) wont allow you to earn enough nickles to buy more dope. Good thing there's welfare. Hey dudes ride that train!

If 1% of something fails then I'm an idiot? Oh that's deep. I thought band geeks were supposed to be smart. I really did. Maybe 1% of them are failing.

Well I bought the guitar after watching the QVC show and I absolutely love what my money got for me. But seeing as how I'm an idoit. Let me try this one you: If a baseball player hits 30% of their at bats, they're a hall-of-famer. But if I lose 1% of my hair, then I'm bald? What if I paid 100% more in taxes than you dorks even made last year? Really, I'm betting I paid more taxes last year than all of you strung out wannabe band geeks made in the last ten years plying your "crafts". Let's see; I had about a 1% error rate on my academic work and college transcripts. Yeah, that's idiotic.

I'll tell you dorks what...get your sorry asses into rehab, go to church, and stop crying about how Estaban is ripping people off. Your sorry ass didn't even buy one of his guitars. Oh and something else...don't bother responding with any more of your sharp whitted comebacks (translation: lameness). I wont ever be back to this blog to check what you have to say because I already bought my guitar from QVC, I love it, and I am looking to buy another couple of them for my nephew and neice. Their uncle (translation: me) is their guitar hero!

Oh yeah, plus I have a life...money to make, taxes to pay, kids to make smile...no time for blogs...you know...oh that's right. You really don't know. So take my word for it.

Estaban is the sheeezzy! His guitar is the mofo! DOPE! Kickin! Biotch! Gnarly! Phat! As you 'tards like to say.

Buy the guitar... 99% of you will love it just like I did. 1% of you will call me an idot or loser and and waste your time responding to my message. See you - would not want to be you (translation: goodbye dorks and geeks and other unsavory basement inhabitants).

I love the product!!! Buy it!!!
 

I just got the Celebration Fireworks Limited Edition Cutaway '08 & I think it's a great guitar for the value. It will never replace my '89 Gibson Flying V, but it sounds great & stays in tune well. For those who say Esteban is not a great guitar player, well, that just goes to show how much they know.
 

I have never heard such hateful comments about a man that we don't know personally. You don't like his product? OK. But that does not give anyone the right spew such hatred. Nobody is forcing any of us to buy Esteban's guitars. And Esteban can't play? Apparently, some of you "experts" have got to have your ears checked. I have had to return big name guitars because of flaws. Every name guitar I bought had to have a setup. No brand of guitar, big or small is without flaws. And insulting Esteban's daughter is really uncalled for. If you don't like Esteban's guitars, don't buy them. Don't like his music, don't listen. We all have our own tastes. But let's stop throwing insults at the man. That's not cool thing for musicians to do.
 

Folks, I am a guitarist of some nearly 50 years. I know low quility when I see it and play it. I agree, this is not the best stuff in the world. Sometimes though, companies that make crap make a mistake and a good one gets through. Remember "Harmony guitars" the Souverign (OK MY SPELLING IS CRAP TOO) it was a cheap guitar but sometimes one was so increadable. So, my point is. My Mom bought me an Estaban guitar for Christmas. Now she went off and bought me another one. I just do not have the heart to tell her that it is not what she thinks it is. If it pleases her to buy it for me the cost is minimal. I did a little file work and such and now they are playable. I don't play them much as my other guitars would pack up and leave if I did. The major problem with buying ANY instrument over the internet or TV is that you cannot put your hands on it first. You cannot hear it either. If you choose to buy one that way you obviously don't care. Always assume the worst and you might be surprised by something you can actually use. Best Regards Folkses,
Joe Rose
 

All of you people who are ripping on Esteban need to get a life. Especially regarding the fact that he wears sunglasses due to his visual disability. Obviously you're insecure about your own lack of success and are jealous of his. I studied classical guitar for five years and thinks he plays great. And I've seen the greats from Segovia to Parkening perform. I have bought two of his guitars and have never had a problem.

Mike T
 

My friend bought the package: guitar, amp, lit, instruction video. I checked out the guitar. It wasn't bad for the money. You could do a lot worse. If you want to learn to play, that guitar's fine. Anyone who sent himself to the hospital emergency room, trying to play that instrument has other unrelated issues.
 

I must say; " Those of you who are putting a man and his dream down...are closed minded" I recently purchaced an Esteban guitar. I am very pleased with it's quality. Lest we forget... He ain't makin' em for PRO'S to use on stage. But, I think I just might.
Justinother
 

Just send back the Estaban Guitar if that's what you call it.I was amazed at the poor quality.Looks good from 8 feet away but if you are close lookout.Bridge was actually separating from the body of the guitar.No attempt was mase to align the nut properly...it was left rough cut.The worst example of a guitar I have ever seen,IT WAS EVEN CHEAP BY CHINA STANDARDS!I was quick to send it back as there was a bad smell....formaldyhyde...coming from the guitar and cas.It didn't sound half bad though but then agaiin I'm not one who has a musical ear.Buyer beware!!!!
 

This guitar is a joke. My grandmother was fooled by it, and even paid the extra 40$ to have the headstock "signed" by Esteban.

Upon close inspection, i noticed the outline of a decal surrounding his "signature".

Besides, the fretboard is rough, and for some reason when I play a G (fifth fret) on the D string while the guitar is hooked up to its amp, the string just starts vibrating out of control. It is really strange, and something I have never seen before.

It is good for a kid to try playing, but I highly doubt anybody has actually toured with it. I guess it's a good conversation piece, or, if you value quantity over quality, a way to add one more cheap guitar to your collection.
 

You guys are a joke. Why not slip over to the George Foreman blog and slam him? It's obvious by what I read here, most of you would know just as much about hamburger grills as you think you know about guitars.
It's obvious most here are not judging with any knowledge or propriety. Your juvenile tantrums and personal attacks of ESTEBAN are not in keeping with good taste OR manners.
 

All the Esteban haters are just that....haters. I doubt if many of you have even purchased one of his guitars. From most of the posts I read you guys would be better off ordering a home literacy course instead of Esteban's guitar.

Here is the undeniable FACT: whether you like him or you don't like him, learn to love him because he isn't going away and he's having a great time doing what he loves. A lot of these angry posters sit around and DREAM of doing what Esteban is really doing. Don't blame him for your own lack of talent or motivation.
 

I have played the guitar for about 40 years. I bought 1 of these guitars for my husband a few years ago and since it has aged it is as playable and has a tonal quality comparable to any other moderately priced acoustic on the market triple its price. This isn't rocket science. This guitar is not a 5000.00 Taylor. Nothing hand made is flawless. Necks can be adjusted, action can be lowered, frets can be filed, and by all means shange those strings. Ever try a Mexican Strat?
 

I was flipping through the channels, and I came across Esteban on HSN. I've seen a few of his presentations before, and I liked them. I wanted to order, but I wasn't sure.

So. I came online looking for reviews from SMART and INTELLIGENT people. I came to the wrong place!

You are all hating on a man that you don't know, and insulting him for [supposedly] selling pieces of crap.

Well folks, I'm here to tell ya. You get what you pay for. If you buy his package, you get a guitar, an amp, shoulder straps, picks, a chord chart, 10 dvd's and other stuff. Now, realistically, it doesn't matter the quality of this stuff. A mini amp goes for at LEAST 50 bucks. 10 DVD's, at 20 bucks a pop...Come on.

Wake up people. If you don't want a cheap guitar, don't pay a cheap amount for it. I personally think that you're all on the Esteban Hate Wagon, rolling down any roads you can, trying to sway people's opinions because it's the "cool" thing to do, like many internet sites out there.

So instead of running down a man who has obvious talent, let's just grow up, eh? There's better things to do than to sit behind your computers and type to your friends, telling them how much these guitars suck because you want to be right in their eyes.

If you don't like the guitar, return it. If you can't, sell it. If you can't do either of those, just let it go and realize you get what you pay for.

I personally would not expect a great quality guitar like a Martin, paying this sort of price. Neither should you people, REGARDLESS of ANY advertisement that you see.

I've been playing music since I was three years old. I started with piano, moved on to drums and then I learned guitar. I play other instruments such as the bass and the banjo.

I have good quality instruments, and then I have not so good quality instruments.

And guess which wants aren't the great quality.

The cheap ones.

So instead of bashing a man you don't know, and instead of sitting behind your computer and posting comments to look "cool", be quiet and appreciate the art of music. Because when you get to the core, that's what it's all about.

John
 

Hey John,
Why not wipe the foam away from your mouth and read a few of the posts before you start painting everyone with the same brush?
 

My nephew used the Esteban tapes, and a $99 guitar from Sam's Club, to get started playing when he was about 12. He played around with it on and off for a year, you know how kids are, and I was shocked the first time I heard him. He had actually learned to play using those tapes, and played several songs. The main thing was it encouraged him to continue because he actually had learned some, instead of many kids I've seen get discouraged during other lessons and just give up. He's 14 now and recently started taking weekly private lessons and playing in his school's jazz band, and is quite good for his age and lack of real training. He did, however, get a new guitar, a very nice one, and plays lots of songs, including classical, jazz, Christian and, his favorite, classic rock. I was so inspired by him that I recently borrowed his tapes and old guitar to try to teach myself a little!
 

I started playing bass over 20 years ago. Spent many years traveling around, playing noise, sleeping on floors, and having fun. I quit playing several years ago. My mom recently bought me an Esteban guitar for Christmas. I started playing and couldnt stop. I play 3 hours a day, at least. Maybe it is a crappy guitar. All I know is I'm creating music again and it is FUN. I guess I could sit around and whine about not playing a Gibson or whatever is cool with other guitar players, but, I'm having too much fun playing music to worry about what others think. But, what do I know. I'm just an aging punk rocker who has never played anything but crappy instruments and loves creating music for the enjoyment of creating it, not b/c I think I'm going to be really good one day, but, I'll never make it big playing an Esteban guitar. If you think it's a rip off, dont buy it. But, there are some of us out there (and I know some of these people) that take a string and a washtub and make a bass, or a 5 gallon bucket and some sticks and make a drum. Or, they try and craft their own instruments. Or, they take an inexpensive Esteban guitar, and try their best to create beautiful music all b/c they love to create music.
 

I came home lte one night and saw Estaban's selling he's guitars on HSN. I don't have the time to take lessopns and founds he's package appealing. I purchased the 10 DVD set with guiatar and case. I'm totally satisfied!!! The man has talent and I don't understand why all the negative comments about the guy. Enjoy life don't look at everything with the glass half empty....
 

i have bought my husband two of Estebans guitarsand he loves them he has played the guitar since he was two and has owened many he has since gotten rid of the utheres and now only plays Esteban they sound great and he enjoys playing the i have now bought him one more and now that makes three..you can not please all of the people all of the time so if you dont like Estebans guitars then get rid of it or them everyone can think what they want to each there own some will be pleased and some will not for those of you who are its a good guitar and you will proble buy one again as we have and we will buy more as the years go buy
 

i was intoxicated when i first saw estaban's vintage guitar on HSN. I actually thought that the neck was blonde wood. To my suprise upon recieving this vintage edition guitar i noticed the guitar has a "graphite" or Melemine consistancy.I have since be hospitalized for mental illness and alcohol issues.If the esttaban guitars with "real" wood necks are any good ,i'd really like an opprotunity play one.i think estaban is very strange and reminds me of mickey rouke....why does he wear sung glasses and a black hat ALL THE TIME....???
 

Things are neat. This is nifty. Rock on haters!
 

LOL! This thread is hilarious. Not sure if it's because people are picken on Esteban....or if i'm laughing at myself for being gullible enough to buy one of these guitars. We'll see. It's on it's way!!!
 

I bought an Esteban pretty much on a whim - I was 35 years old and completely ignorant in all music related matters. I knew nothing, period.

Paid $ 89.00 and sure enough the guitar arrived a week later in the box.

I now own 2 Larrivees, play about 10 hours a week and have been taking private lessons for 3 years and I am addicted.

Had anyone told me, at age 35, that I would be playing & singing in front of anyone in a room irrespective of their level of play and actually get away with it, I would have been the one laughing the loudest.

Now, I am.

Learning modal variations, I have my pentatonic scales down pretty good and am starting to find my way around 2 or 3 major scales and actually starting to have some improvisational skills.

ALL OF THE ABOVE because Esteban put a cheap guitar in my hands from the comfort of my couch and without the embarrassment of waling into a store and admitting my ignorance.

The $ 89.00 were very well spent, I learned a few chords and a few basic things from the tapes but more important I GOT STARTED.

By the time I bought my second guitar in a store I had actually a vague idea of what a guitar is, what it looks like, what string gauge means and I was able to at least strum a few major chords properly.

That is what ESTEBAN does and I am grateful and will always be that the man with the mask got me into playing the guitar is has become a big part of my life today.

Unlike a lot of people I know I don't feel the need to the join the "cool" crowd that somehow feels it would belittle them to give credit where credit is due.

In a period of history where art and music education are disappearing Esteban started thousands of people with the guitars and that in itself gets him major kudos.
 

Hey, for what ever it is worth he is a very good if not great guitarist.
On a personal note I actually own a home he used to live in.
 

Hahahahaha. These comments are hilarious. Maybe the Esteban guitars are made in the Rogue factory over in China by new employees while in training. Hahahahha. There is a reason these guitars are not sold in local music stores, the owners know what value and quality are. The bottom line is you can get a better guitar at your local mom and pop or national music store for the same price. And for you phonies defending Esteban guitars while pretending to be seasoned players, get a life. There are many ways to learn to play and buy a guitar so ask around. You'll be surprised.
 

This blog is hilarious...I think it obvious to tell the posers from the posters. I have been a musician of 25 years, own 37 PRO instruments, and 14 Amps, or the several instructors and supposed professional musicians that hide behind anonymous or other pseudonyms for names...and list no personal accomplishments or qualifications to back any of it up?
Like Schools you teach at, cd's you've produced, or bands etc. you've played with or for???

If your a professional and got a beginner guitar, you need to have a serious sitdown with you Mom, Aunt, Uncle, or Grandparent to explian these qualifications and your expertise, as they are obviously unaware of it. And if they bought one of your nephews and nieces one of these guitars without consulting you...well what does that say for their opinion of your musical abilities and knnowledge???

If anyone took the time to do a search for Esteban this would be the top link I found on ASK.com to his direct website here

http://www.estebanmusic.com/

where he only has about 5 guitars forsale, a few lessons and accessories, and his CD's (of which there are quite a few I might add), and which is where I intend to buy mine from regardless of the comments posted here.

I am a novice and total beginner, and know what I'm getting into. I'm not expecting to become a famous musician from a beginners course, but hope to find satisfaction in musical meditation, and possibly entertain friends around the campfire, or during the holidays when things get a little slow or boring, or in some cases hostile, which might help in providing a calm atmosphere in an otherwise uncomfortable situation. Sure some of you have had those in your lives.

Like another poster says, buyer beware, and that goes for anything you buy....like the contaminated food you buy in the grocery store everday that is way over the 1% range mentioned by anohter poster, and of course sanctioned by the FDA, along with all the other poisonous drugs they allow to be peddled through our pharmacies, and worse sold over the counter, and now shoved down our throats by INFOMERCIALS...oops regular commercials, which is only a smittering of things that are far more to worry about than someone selling beginner instuments on infomercials.

So if your so professional, get out and prove it, make some money, and guess what....you probably won't have time to be sitting around here bloggin about how much better you are than someone else at your supposed crafts. If it's because no one in the billions of people across the world seem to like the music your playing, or willing to pay for your expensive and/or egotistical teaching styles, maybe you should consider another style for either or both, so people enjoy listening to what you play, and are not so amazed by your skills but actually leaning how to play something on the guitar with each lesson, and are more willing to come back and pay you to keep learning more.

Kelly E. Griffin
Maple Lake, MN
 

I had gotten the first Burswood Esteban guitar and that thing was garbage, I got it as a gift so I tried to use it but it just felt like crap, the frets sucked you could not lower the strings enough and the neck was shot. Now I have 8 electric guitars that I play and 1 a Martin I play. Then the other day my friend gave me his Esteban deluxe acoustic with the little amp. First off I did not want it then when I saw it I was impressed of this newer version it was a very nice looking guitar and the action was pretty good as well. I played it and the sound was beautiful.. It really shocked me, then I plugged it into my amp and I had a big smile on my face, I played it for hours. I have to say not all Esteban guitars are crap. I mean I would not buy one but hey I got this beauty for free and it sits next to my Martin.
 

Estaban is a very popular artist. Just look at how many of you people are talking about him. Duh
 

hay for 200 bucks a hard case an amp cheap guitar dvds dammm even if you dont use the guitar the rest of the stuff is ok i use the case for a seagull guitar i have and the dvds are ok pick up a few things also the amp is pretty cool for a cheap 10 watt amp still cranks ok all in all a good deal and i think estaban is cool so scre all you HATES
 

If Southpark hasn't done an episode spoofing Esteban yet, I think it's high time.
He seems like a nice guy though, and really talented.
 

I just received my Esteban guitar. He actually signed it. This thing is now worth a fortune. Besides the cardboard neck and the frets being made out of licorice this baby is great. Except it doesnt stay in tune and the balsa wood is rotting but I'm extremely happy.(because I just took a painkiller)
 

I own the following:
Gretsch Historic Series - model-G3523 (Love-It best sounding Guitar for the money)
Squire Acoustic by fender (junk won't stay in tune and strings buzz the neck - I think it is warped)
Esteban - Duende (tied classical nylon) (Love-It! great sound for finger-picking and playing solos)
Esteban - Reflections (Love-It! Stays in-tune and rich/some what warm sound)

I was kinda skeptical buying a guitar from HSN as well, but I was pleasantly surprised at the value. Great value for $200. The ESTEBAN instructional DVD's are VERY good quality. The extra parts, like the strings and picks aren't the greatest, but I replaced the strings with good quality D'Adarrio's and the guitars holds its own.

I gotta give it to Estaban, for the money he has put his name on the best value I have seen... especially for beginners!

Bob
 

I purchased two years ago but didn't pick up till a week ago, As first time player I cant compare quality of workmanship to the like, but have built things from cast metals toabalone inlays in furniture,custom wood boats, and lastly , portrait's "painting" etc. The guitar I received looks to be a little finer than the one he plays in his first video, at least the finish . "Cavet Emptor" Latin , for (Buyer Beware) some times its in the batch number. It is a beginner's guitar! I would be hard pressed to put out this quality for the money asked, even if I had Ecuadorian children,Chinese, Mexican etc.at my disposal. Id like to have there skills . I indeed am a jealous man. It is always easy to slash and burn, the success of others very enjoyable Ha Ha . But Id like to see America building things that can compete in this market again. Hows about making , building your own empire so I we will not have to move to china etc.. Critics are a dime a dozen. When it comes to this there is a plethora of Junk boats in the bay. Build something you are a novice, pay some one, you are aprofessional critique. Its all about the money and he found a way to make it with out steeling it from you.
This guitar jumped out of my lap and slashed my finger clear off. Luckily I practice chi gung and was able to heal my wound in minutes ! I later decided to make a bird house and found it very usful. Wow what sales pitches we have here I due believe we have some future cone sure in the making bravo !
I am eager to learn the first video has taken much of the mystery with its simplicity. I like much so far. Wished I hadn't waited so long. It is now 2am still have to finish my lesson and finish up my last painting before I get to work. Stay busy y'all !
 

I remember when Steve Paul got his Martin guitar in high school. That kid LOVED his axe! I taught him a few barre chords and then he took off like a rocket. He was Constantly learning and practicing. At that time he was into Glen Campbell and folk/pop. I think the bug really bit him for good at old Petty's guitar shop in downtown Pitts. We and the rest of the local aspiring musicians all used to hang out there enjoying the smells of the fine woods and drooling over the instruments we couldn't afford. I wanted one of the three Gibson Firebirds in the window display...instead I settled happily for a Harmony. Years later I finally have my firebird along with another couple Gibsons, a Fender, a Ric, a couple of EPIs, a hofner and a big Vox Super B amp. I'm sure Steve has acquired a large number of top shelf axes along the way. His Chinese made guitar isn't on his top shelf, though. Hey, he plays flat top and classical guitars okay...can't sing at ALL (you don't wanna hear it), but he's worked hard to overcome some hard knocks. I do wish he'd talk straight about his personal journey. Example, he was a good pitcher in high school..he lost the sight in his left eye due to a baseball that knocked him off the pitcher's mound. He taught guitar in Calif for years, but as for the Segovia story...I just don't know. He was always a ommited, disciplined person. On the other hand, music came far too easily to me...I never did put in the hours and level of commitment on guitar that he did. So now I'm just an adequate guitarist. I'm proud of what he managed to achieve over the years, but I gotta admit that I do cringe when I see him pitching guitars and cd's so shamelessly. Talking to him a few years back on the phone, I was surprised to hear him speak in the same over the top delivery he uses on his TV pitches. I really think he believes his music to the world message! He was always a very religious kid. Maybe that explains it. Anyway..he is what he is, but he is an old friend who I'll have to visit one day. I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt with a small "B". I gotta agree with all the folks who are warning grandmothers, mothers, etc that if it sounds too good to be true, it is. CAVEAT EMPTOR
 

I just received one of the Esteban signature models, and it absolutely put my guitar to shame. I mean, the inscrutable "wisdom of the East" workmanship, the testicle-busting resonant tone, the drop-dead (in the alley) finish, the freshly cut aged greenish wood, the classic Ginsu fret work, the infinitely variable pitch tuning. So, I sold my 1927 Martin 0-45 at my garage sale for $57 after getting the Estebsn. Who needed that POS Martin, anyway?
 

Okay so here is my review of this guitar. I have been playing around six years and am a custom guitar tech. First of all, no matter what guitar you buy from anywhere may require some work, that doesnt mean it is a piece of junk. My first Laguna required new pickups and quite a bit of adjustment. Some has said on here that the strings are too far from the frets. Well these things are mass produced in a factory by people who DO NOT know how to make guitar adjustments. I have seen more guitars both electric and acoustic, that sound bad or at least decent, and with a re-string and a few minor adjustments sounded great. These are beginner guitars, point blank. Now I understand that if you get one with a bad paint job or a serious warp in it, then yes you got unlucky. But as for the rest of you that have minor stupid complaints about action adjustment or poor sound, re-string your guitar and adjust the action. If you actually wanted to be a decent guitar player you would buy a book at your local guitar store that explains how to adjust, tune, and maintain your guitar. So please stop whining about stupid crap just because your complaint is about something as simple as you thinking that your guitar should arrive at your door sounding concert ready.
 

All you "haters" out there are just a bunch of RETARDS!
I love how you all have preface your statements by "I've played guitar for 5-10-15-20 years or I have a "degree in music performance"... then the next thing out-of-your-mouths verifies that you all are a bunch of "lying-Dumb-Asses!"
Anyone worth their salt would know exactly that the guitars "live-up" to their purpose AND price-point!
All you RETARDS go to the "Special-Olympics" forum and you will probably have a more impressed forum of listeners!
Otherwise just shut-up and sit-down!!!
 

You losers are fantastic! haha $150 bucks guitar? These anonymous posters are probably Stephen himself or his daughters, haha. I watched some of his infomercials and the jack kept falling out of guitar haha. No wonder he has those MILFs by his side moaning, cause he targets house wifes to buy his firewood instruments haha. Stephen is an artis...a ponzy-scheme artist! haha. Losers, you can't learn anything by his DVD, cuase he never shows any finger excersises...something you must do to learn guitar no metter if you learn standard notation or tabs haha. Losers with big L haha. Stephen's live play is so different then his playing on CD's that makes one wonder...who really plays guitar on his CDs? Segovia endorsed him? haha Who the f... cares what that old creep did...he endorsed every young female student or not hahah...I can go on and on...If scaming people you call success then you deserve his guitar and DVD's and all the poision in the paint from the guitar that you are gonna get haha