NGD+5...I'm a little late. It took me a while to get a couple of pictures.
Last week I was calling Ted at L.A. Guitars to order a 12 fret. He told me he had just gotten the new Fall Limited 712e. It was a little more than I wanted to spend, but on impulse (which is not me), I said "I'll take it". It arrived last Friday. It is a beautiful guitar, basically the appointments of the new 800's with sassafras back and sides and rosewood binding and trim.
I had played several 12 frets before this one (512, 712 and 812), and this 712e has much more volume. I'm guessing it's the 800 bracing along with the 3.5mil finish and special glues. The sound has a strong bass, warm, woody mids, and sparkly clear highs. When I first played it, the overtones in the high notes were almost overpowering. After a day or two they moderated, and I found D'Addario PB's (lights) gave me the exact tone I wanted.
I have seen many pictures of the sassafras and in comparison, mine seems rather plain. But I like it. I want the guitar more for it's sound and playability than it's wild looks. Anyway, I'm having fun playing it. Really a nice guitar, and best of all, my wife loves the sound of it, too.
