I tried replying to some of the other threads, but the forum would'nt allow it. There has been an enormous amount of confusion about Ventura guitars and the manufacturers. I do not know a lot about the various models, but i will say that there should be a clear distinction between todays Ventura guitars (which imo are crap) and the 60's and 70's era guitars which were "designed in USA - Built in Japan". I am only familiar with the V-series guitars such as V-6, V-10 etc. The modern ventura guitars are completely different from the vintage type. These new ones have model numbers like VWDONAT or something similar. The 3 venturas that i own have screws in the bridge allowing you to adjust the action of the strings which is great. Does anybody know of any historical information to make a distinction between the older ventura models such as bruno and other copies?
I just picked up a Ventura Bruno V-23 (Dove) from a friend today. SN# 85581. It is in amazing condition. I haven’t had a chance to really lay into it yet but, upon first strum, I noticed a very pronounced mid range presence and a tight/deep lows. I’ll have to get some new strings on it to really get a feel for the sound, of course. The action is a little high for my taste but it still plays well and feels very comfortable. I’ll elaborate on the overall quality after I spend some time with the guitar but so far I am very impressed with the feel and sound of this guitar!
Try and post some pictures up. I just picked up another ventura. A classical this time. I now own 4 venturas. two v-6 models, one v-10, and the classical which im not sure the model because it doesnt say v-1588 etc...
I found a vintage Ventura catalog online and got some good info on their guitars. This V-23 has a spruce top with maple sides and back, similar to the Gibson Dove. Their later model, the V-23S, has a mahogany back and sides just like a Hummingbird. Interesting. Here are some shots of mine. I put some new strings on it and it sounds fantastic. It sounds very similar to Hummingbirds I've played but with a little less bass. My guess is that it sounds even more like the Gibson Dove.
Nice looking guitar. THe great thing about these Ventura guitars is that you can adjust the action quite easily by turning those screws on the bridge. You should be able to get it just right.
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