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I wanted to share some reflections on my new E8OM-TC, which I received about a month ago. After getting an E10SS/v, I figured that an E8OM was a logical next step. I hunted a bit, but prices have been high lately for the E8OM. Finally, I found what I thought was a good deal on a new one from a dealer and pulled the trigger.
TLDR summary:
After a setup, this E8OM-TC is a terrific guitar that has exceeded my high expectations. I love it, no regrets at all -- it's a new #1 for me.
The package arrived with a noticeable rattle. One of the case latches was detached and loose in the box. Eastman has committed to shipping me a replacement case, but it will take a while due to tariff-driven supply chain challenges. On inspection, the guitar was fine except the flange on the lower bout strap end pin was cracked (just like my E10SS/v). The pin was still solid and usable.
The guitar has a beautiful Sitka top with interesting grain (figuring?) all over it. The rosewood is also very nice. I'll get some photos up and let them speak for themselves. The finish is essentially flawless except for some extra finish overspray from the top on the bass edge of the bridge. The overall build is very solid - my first reaction was that it's much heavier than my varnish finished E10SS/v. But, after more time with it, it doesn't feel heavy as much as it feels sturdy.
The neck is very comfortable - slightly wider and thicker than my E10SS/v. Frets are great, just like every Eastman that I've seen. I noticed that the edges of the fretboard are rolled a little bit, which is a nice touch. I have no complaints about the neck at all.
The guitar has a 2021 production serial number, but a June 2025 date on the certificate. This set off 2 questions for me:
1) Does it have a nitro or poly finish? Eastman changed in 2021, so it could be either.
2) Why is there a gap between production and certificate?
I e-mailed Eastman, and they replied right away. But, they didn't say much other than enjoy the guitar. They said they don't know which serial #s have Nitro or Poly, and the only difference is that they will age differently. They said the certificate was signed after the team in Pomona set it up -- time gaps can happen. Neither of these are really of concern for me, they are more of a curiosity.
Unfortunately, on arrival, the guitar setup was very wonky. The low E was set up with 0.120" action at the 12th fret, but the treble side was 0.070". Fortunately, the shop agreed to compensate me for a setup at my local luthier. He dialed it in to 0.080 - 0.070" and was gushing compliments about the guitar. He especially noted that the guitar has exceptional balance across the strings up and down the fretboard. He said it's one of the nicest smaller-bodied guitars he's seen in a while.
This might be in my head, but the guitar really opened up after about a week of daily playing. At first, it felt muted. I attributed this to the finish and smaller body size and kept playing. Then, after about a week the volume increased substantially. I'm not sure if the top could start to break in this fast, or if this just could be the strings settling in. But, the guitar sounds fantastic now. I'd say it's as loud as my E10SS/v, just different. The sustain is fantastic, this guitar just rings and rings.
Prior to getting this, I played E10OM, E20OM-TC, and E40OM. I didn't get to A/B them on the same day, but I'd honestly rather have this E8OM-TC than any of those guitars that I played.
For me, this is the perfect complement to my E10SS/v. Obviously, the tonewoods and body shape are different. But, also, the solid build and finish of the E8OM make it the obvious choice for playing out. Honestly, I'm a little afraid of the finish on my E10SS/v and it may never leave my house. I have no such feelings about the E8OM.
Thanks for reading, please let me know if you have questions.
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![[Image: NSMS8g5.jpeg]](https://i.imgur.com/NSMS8g5.jpeg)
![[Image: JE4tG93.jpeg]](https://i.imgur.com/JE4tG93.jpeg)