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I was at Standard Value recently, managed to try the above
Rally Neosound model...
As evident in the pic above, the Neosound is a Gibson ES-335 clone at a fraction of the price. Our first impression of this guitar would naturally be that of dislike as it's a product riding on the acclaim of another well known model. However, the more sensible among us would judge this instrument by virtue of its QC/ tonal manifestation & ignore the unexplored brand name (Rally? Who the heck plays Rally?).
The guitar is a very well-made instrument per se, far surpassing other ES-335 clones in the market out there. I would say it's rather flawless in this aspect save for some uneven finish at the outlines of the F-holes but you need close scrutiny to detect this blemish.
In the playability department, the Neosound's neck profile remains inviting to both the traditional as well as the proto-shredders alike. In fact, the finish here is organic unlike many other budget models that are often blighted by a thick, synthetic lacquer overcoat.
Tone-wise, the equally uncelebrated 2H humbuckers in this guitar did well in both clean & driven (I did a 'heavy' take as well) modes; they simply sound very right & engaging if we lack the funds to replace them for some more renowned brand names (I would keep them should I own this guitar). The Neosound is indeed highly recommended for players looking for a praise-worthy instrument without costing them an arm/ leg/ kidney.
Rally Neosound
List:
$390Avaialble @ Standard Value
PS: Thanks
Mike & co. for letting me put this guitar through the rigors of instrument testing
PPS: Hmm... my darling is considering getting this superb instrument for me... :-)