Description

Sweet strumming MIJ Mid 70s Morris F-18 with a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides. $399!

The Morris F-18 is a 000 (Triple-O) size acoustic guitar, offering a smaller body compared to a dreadnought, which provides a more focused and intimate sound. The 000 body size is known for its balanced tonal output, making it ideal for fingerstyle players as well as those who prefer a slightly lighter and more controlled sound compared to the boomy projection of a dreadnought. Morris, a Japanese guitar maker, has built a reputation for crafting high-quality, affordable guitars, and the F-18 is a fine example, particularly valued for its tonal clarity and comfortable playability.

Key Features

  • 000 body shape (smaller and more compact than a dreadnought) for a balanced and focused sound
  • Solid spruce top for articulate, bright tones with excellent resonance
  • Mahogany back and sides for warmth and richness, especially in the midrange
  • Mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability and durability
  • Traditional X-bracing for enhanced tone and structural stability
  • 20 frets with dot inlays for easy navigation and a comfortable playing experience
  • Natural finish, showcasing the grain of the tonewoods for a classic and elegant appearance
  • Chrome-plated tuners for stable and reliable tuning

Sound Profile
The Morris F-18 000 size guitar offers a well-balanced sound with pronounced midrange and clear, articulate highs. The solid spruce top provides brightness and clarity, while the mahogany back and sides contribute warmth and depth, especially in the midrange frequencies. This combination makes the guitar ideal for fingerpicking, as it emphasizes individual note clarity and dynamic response. The 000 size also provides a more intimate sound compared to larger guitars like the dreadnought, making it perfect for singer-songwriters and those who perform in smaller, acoustic-focused settings.

Applications
The Morris F-18 is particularly well-suited for fingerstyle playing and light strumming. Its 000 body size offers a more focused sound, making it an excellent choice for genres like folk, blues, and acoustic pop. The guitar’s balanced tonal output makes it ideal for both solo performances and recording, where clarity and precision are important. The smaller body size also makes the F-18 more comfortable to play for those who prefer a guitar that is easy to hold and maneuver, particularly during long playing sessions.

Build Quality and Aesthetic
The Morris F-18 is known for its excellent craftsmanship, featuring a solid spruce top that enhances the guitar’s resonance over time. The mahogany back and sides add durability and a warm tonal profile, while the mahogany neckand rosewood fingerboard provide smooth, comfortable playability. The guitar’s X-bracing ensures structural integrity while enhancing tonal projection. Its natural finish highlights the grain of the woods, giving it a timeless, elegant look. The chrome-plated tuners provide reliable tuning stability, ensuring the guitar holds its pitch well.

Country of Manufacture
Japan

Collectibility and Market Value
The Morris F-18 is not necessarily a collectible guitar, but it holds value due to its high-quality craftsmanship, excellent tonewoods, and playability. Japanese-made guitars from the 1970s and 1980s have gained a reputation for providing superb value, and the F-18 is no exception. While not considered rare, it has become more desirable among guitarists looking for an affordable, well-made acoustic guitar with vintage character. Its smaller 000 body size and balanced tonal response make it an appealing option for musicians who prioritize comfort and tonal clarity. The guitar maintains good market value, especially for those who appreciate well-made vintage instruments.