I'm not good with model numbers especially not good at spotting the difference between them. I didn't even know he played the more expensive model at all. The proof is in the video footage and don't know when he switched. Just had the conversation with him when he got the Yamaha deal. I think he had several options but liked things about the Yamaha and one of them was they were affordable. Back when I first got to know Joe he was playing Larivee. He was buying his own then his Dad was a dealer and he thought they were about the best guitars for the money and it was his money and he would go through a few.
With the Yamaha models he originally played, I think he liked the idea if he had a problem with them on the road he could walk into any Guitar Center and replace it without breaking the bank. Getting one sent from the factory on the road is a little tricky. Now a lot has happened since that original ad ran. RAH for one and his profile has risen quite a bit. Yamaha being more willing to provide one of their more expensive models especially when your getting ready to play one at the RAH