Eastman’s PCH and Traditional Series acoustics can look deceptively similar from across the room. The important differences are in construction, materials, hardware and the level of specification rather than merely the badge on the headstock.

The short version

PCH models use a solid spruce top with laminated back and sides. Traditional Series models such as the E1D move to all-solid construction, while higher models such as the E10D Thermo-Cure and E20D Thermo-Cure add more premium woods, gloss finishes and hard cases.

PCH construction

The PCH1-D uses a solid thermo-cured Sitka spruce top with laminated sapele back and sides. The PCH2-D uses the same broad formula but changes the back and sides to laminated rosewood and uses a gloss top finish.

Traditional Series construction

The E1D retains a thermo-cured Sitka spruce top but moves to solid sapele back and sides, plus an ebony fingerboard and bridge. Further up the range, the E10D Thermo-Cure and E20D Thermo-Cure use thermo-cured Adirondack spruce tops with solid mahogany or rosewood back and sides.

Price step

At the current UK retail references used on this site, the PCH1-D sits at £369, the PCH2-D at £429 and the E1D at £559. That makes the move from PCH1-D to E1D a relatively clear example of paying more for all-solid back and sides and upgraded appointments.

Which range makes sense?

PCH makes sense when cost, durability and getting a solid-top Eastman at a lower price are the priorities. Traditional Series models are the route for players specifically looking for all-solid construction and the additional specification that comes with it. Our PCH1-D vs E1D comparison shows the difference line by line.

Specifications checked against Eastman’s current published model information. UK prices are current Project Music retail references and can change.