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IN WONDERFUL ALBANY, NY, USA

UPDATED:  Wed, Aug 20th, 2008 (More gear to be posted today)  GO U.S.A.!!!

JUST IN Section below - see links at bottom of page for 1000's more gear.  

NAVIGATING THIS SITE:  If you're not familiar with my site, it's simple, although not fancy:   (1) This page has gear that has recently arrived; (2) Links at the bottom of this page take you to most of our gear, logically arranged by manufacturer or type, e.g. Fender, Gibson Effects, Parts, Amps, PRS, etc.  (3) Lastly, my "Semi-Just In" Page (click here), contains a lot of gear that hasn't made it back to the proper pages yet and is sort of in limbo until I move it.  It's not a fancy site but it remains unchanged since '98 and I firmly believe, "if it ain't broke - don't fix it."  All guitars and other gear have pictures.  Just click on any underlined text and it should open a picture; click the picture and it may expand the pic, depending on the resolution.  

NOTE:  A few 100 items has been temporarily moved to the  "Semi - Just-In" Page (click here), where it will remain until it gets moved to the regular pages (Fender, Effects, Pro-Sound, etc.), with links at the bottom of this page.

Warmoth Super Strat, (front/back), (headstock), (neck), (Features-DiMarzio/Kahler Pro/Earvana nut), (hand-carved contour), (Steinberger gears/etc.).  This is a very unique guitar, built by Martin for a local customer.  No expense was spared in parts, finish, or assembly and the labor alone ran $800 on this guitar.  In addition to normal assembly and setup, the finish consisted of hand-rubbed oil with an hand-rubbed wax top coat, Martin's own thin wood finish was applied to the unfinished neck, and the treble cutaway was deeply contoured by hand.  Specs include 24 3/4" Gibson scale, PRS wiring on the DiMarzio pickups (bridge/inside coils/both/outside coils/neck), Kahler Pro 2300 with stainless steel saddles, Earvana intonated nut, Steinberger "banjo style" tuners, Warmoth body with flamed maple strips, steel inserts for neck to body construction which provides better transfer than regular wood screws, nicely figured Warmoth neck with stainless steel frets.  This guitar plays and sounds as good as it looks.  In all, nearly $2K has been invested and the guitar is virtually unplayed.  If you're looking for something truly unique, built by the best builder I know, this one's a steal at $1199.  

1965 Fender Showman (click pics to enlarge), (close-head), (top), (side), (power tubes/chart), (JBL D131F), (circuit1  circuit2).  Of interest to collectors - this thing is soooo clean - or pretty much any player looking for a classic Fender tone with enough power to spare.  At 80 watts, this this baby has loads of headroom and it's probably not the best choice if you're looking to use it playing small bars.  Fender had several variations of cabinets for this model including a huge 2X15 - and small 2X15, 1X12, and this very desirable single 15" in the smaller cab - with tilt-back legs.  The speaker in this one is an excellent sounding JBL D131F.  Although Fender used JBL's for this model, I don't see anything to indicates that a D131F is original for this model, but do a google search and you'll see some very favorable reviews of vintage D131F's used with Fender amps.  Everything else on this amp appears original as shown in the circuit pics above and transformers are all correct.  This amp is highly recommended for Dick Dale fans or fans of surf music - or any other 60's style music that requires a very pure tube tone.  In addition to fabulous tone, it's in lovely condition and at 40+ years, blackface Fenders in this condition are getting harder to find.  I see a lot of beater sets priced at $2K but be smart.  While amps have stayed on an upward trend in pricing, most vintage guitars are still in a down market, but one thing stays consistent be it guitars, amps, or effects.  Clean examples, even in a down market, continue to sell at a premium.  Own this beauty for just $1600.  

Fender '65 Deluxe Reverb Reissue, (back).  A few days after I got in the Ltd Ed blonde model, this one popped in which is a better choice for most of the working guitarists.  Same circuit as the blonde, for less cash.  Very clean shape, works perfectly, and one of their popular Vintage Reissue Series.  The '65 Deluxe Reverb is a reissue of one of Fender’s all-time classics and considered by many to be the best club amp ever made. Featuring 22W all-tube circuit, dual channels, tremolo, and a Jensen C12K 12" speaker you can get the classic Fender clean tone with a wonderful break-up at manageable levels, with lush effects on channel two.  At 42 lbs. you won't need a 300 lb. roadie to carry it for you and it easily fits on the back seat of a compact car.  Original mid-60's Deluxe's are perhaps the hottest ticket on the vintage amp market but with clean examples going well above $2000.  This reissue is an excellent alternative - plus none of the glitches associated with a 40-year-old amp.  For full specs and to view or download manual, click here for Fender's site.  A new '65 Deluxe will set you back $949 but this clean used one works perfectly and is just $650.  Note:  I did not get a footswitch with this amp but I can include the one pictured above for $25 if desired.  

1972 Fender Princeton Reverb - click to enlarge, (panel - click to enlarge), (back/tubes), (speaker).  One of the most popular amps in the blackface/silverface line, right behind the Deluxe Reverb.  The Princeton Reverb was Fender's smallest amp with both tremolo and reverb, which has made this a favorite of studio musician's since the 60's.  With a pair of 6V6's cranking out around 12 watts, this amp is perfect for studio gigs, home recording, or even small stages (preferably mic'd if playing with a loud drummer).  Other tubes include a GZ34 rectifier and in the preamp, two 12AX7's, a 12AT7, and a 7025.  Other than the 3-way ground switch on the back, the circuit of this amp is identical to the blackface Princeton Reverb, which makes these one of the best bargains on the market.   Circuit and all components appear original including trannies and choke, with the exception of a 3-prong cord, and quality reverb send/receive cables - but the major mod, which should appeal to players, is the baffle and speaker have been modified for a 12" speaker.  While this may detract from the vintage value, from a player's standpoint it makes this amp sound huge when compared to the stock 10", especially with this 25-watt Weber Signature Series Alnico 12S with blue bell cover.  This amp works perfectly, including trem/rev and with the 12 it's a player's dream and priced less than one of the new reissues at $750.   

1966 Fender Champ, (top), (back), (pic4), (chassis).  Despite it's diminutive size and 5W output, the Champ remains one of the classics in Fender's illustrious history.  There's not a lot of messing around you need to do, just decide if you want break-up and peg the volume, or if you want it clean back it off to 6 or less - and tweak the treble and bass for the guitar you're using.  This amp is in *beautiful* condition, one of the cleanest Champs I've seen and all original except for the speaker which has been upgraded with a very good quality Weber Signature Ceramic 8" that sounds better than the stock speakers usually sound after 40+ years of use.  Tubes are RCA and likely original, with just a 5Y3 rectifier, 6V6 power, and 12AX7 preamp.  The simplicity of this circuit has been copied in recent years but you can get the "real thing" for less than the boutique models, just $499(SOLD-Jude, local) for this beauty.    

OFF-HOLD: Gibson Custom Johnny A. Signature Model, (front/back), (headstock), (case), (signed COA).  A truly elegant guitar, with appointments (pictured) reminiscent of an L5 or other high-end carved top.  Finished in "Sunset Glow," every edge of this guitar is constructed with multi-ply binding including body, neck, and headstock.  More importantly it was built in the old-school tradition with a hand-carved solid maple top, rather than the cheaper laminated maple or mahogany tops found on other archtops.  Additionally, back and sides of this guitar are actually carved out of a single piece of mahogany rather than the usual, and cheaper, glued on rim.  The result is a guitar that is very lively with an acoustic tone that is especially impressive for a thinline semi-hollowbody.  It's advertised as a "modified ES-335 body" with double sharp cutaways instead of round, carved AAA figured maple top, mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard, custom pearl inlays on fretboard, multi-ply white/black binding on neck and body, longer 25 1/2" scale, 1 11/16" nut width, '57 classic humbuckers, gold hardware, stopbar/Tuneomatic bridge, and vintage tulip tuning machines.  Gibson makes two versions of this guitar, both custom shop, and please note that this is the higher end model with figured maple top.  With a list price of $6539, it sells at discount for $4299.  This one is in dead mint condition, as new, and is $1000 lower at just $3299.  Of note to Johnny A fans, the original owner had the certificate hand-signed by the man himself.  Pretty cool.  Includes a very fancy original case, custom care kit, and the usual assortment of paperwork and stuff. 

Collings City Limits Deluxe, (front/back), (headstock), (case).  Some of you will remember a pair of Collings I-35 models I had a year or so ago.  That model introduced Collings into the electric guitar market and what an introduction.  They were the finest semi-hollowbody guitars I had ever played.  Following closely on the heels of the highly acclaimed I-35, Collings released their solidbody model, the City Limits.  Like the I-35, it may loosely resemble other classic styles but the resemblance is merely in the body profile - the quality is far above any other single-cut maple/mahogany model I've had.  A few features are truly innovative, starting with the back (pic here) and the neck joint which is much easier to work around than a vintage style - plus comfort cut in the lower waist as well as the bass lower bout, which makes it extremely comfortable to play, whether standing or sitting.  Little expense was spared in building this guitar.  Fine tonewoods like Brazilian rosewood, perfectly figured and carved maple, and top notch hardware and electronics.  Features include Premium flamed maple with fully carved top, solid mahogany body, grained ivoroid top binding, high gloss lacquer finish, custom Jason Lollar humbuckers, Tone-Pro bridge and tailpiece, custom-made grained ivoroid knobs and pickup rings, 22-fret ivoroid bound mahogany neck, Brazilian rosewood fingerboard, Mother-of-pearl dot fingerboard inlays, 24 7/8" scale length, Ivoroid bound peghead, Brazilian rosewood peghead veneer, Mother-of-pearl Collings logo, Sperzel vintage tuners with ivoroid buttons, and Deluxe hardshell case.  Collings offers this model with fancier inlays and bound neck, as well as a regular City Limits without the grained ivoroid features.  As outfitted, this CL Deluxe lists for $5300 and sells for $4769 new.  This one is dead mint and priced $1K less, just $3769 will make you one happy picker and the envy of all your buddies.  Click here for Collings info.  

2000 Yamaha SA2200, (front/back), (headstock), (case).  "As new" condition.  This is one fine archtop and the pinnacle of Yamaha craftsmanship.  Superbly crafted in Japan, the SA2200 is superbly crafted, and made with Yamaha's finest materials and tone woods.  The SA2200 is their take on the ES-335 Dot, with semi-hollowbody construction and the same laminated maple body and mahogany neck, but the SA2200 features more upscale appointments including an ebony fretboard, and cosmetic features like gold hardware, multi-layer body and headstock binding and split block fretboard inlays.  In addition, it features great sounding Alnico V PAF style pickups with the usual 3-way selector PLUS a push-push pot for each of the tone controls to yield 6 great tones.  For full details click here for Yamaha's site and for 24 reviews where this model received an impressive 9.5 overall, click here for Harmony-Central.  One of the tests of a great semi-hollow is the acoustic tone and this one doesn't disappoint.  It's very loud and clear sounding when unplugged.  Plugged in it sounds as good as any Dot reissue I've had.  The action is incredible; very low at the nut and remains low all the way up the neck.  Offered in unplayed condition with plastic still on the pickguard and a killer high-end Yamaha for $1150.  Includes Yamaha/G&G Lifton style brown case.  

2007 Epiphone Thunderbird IV Bass, (front), (back), (headstock), (case).  One of the coolest body shapes of all time, based on the 60's classic Gibson model.  The Thunderbird IV features an Alder body in reverse styling with the center section raised on front and back.  Pickups are 2-TB Plus humbuckers, controlled by dual volume controls with a master tone.  Other features include maple neck with rosewood fretboard, black hardware, Thunderbird insignia on pickguard, 34" scale with 1.73" nut width.  This bass is setup with great action and these pickups sound very good for a bass in this price range.  Flawless condition, buffed out to a perfect shine without a hint of wear.  Includes a hardshell wooden case and a sweet bass for the money; just $279(HOLD-Jack B 8/18) including case.  

2006 Fender Custom Artist Series Jeff Beck Stratocaster, (front/back), (headstock), (features).  Artic White - immaculate condition with plastic still on the pickguard and factory-sealed accessory bag.  Custom Artist (Custom Shop) version of the Beck Strat, not to be confused with the lower end Artist Series.  Mr. Beck has long been associated with the Strat and this model incorporates his personal tastes and is designed to his specs.  This one features a thinner C-shaped maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard and a contoured heel for easier access to the higher registers.  It's also “Wired” (get it?) with dual ceramic Noiseless pickups and has a two-point synchronized tremolo with stainless steel saddles, LSR roller nut, aged knobs and pickup covers, and Beck's signature on the back of the headstock.  Other specs include 9.5" radius - offered on Rosewood fretboard only - and Fender/Schaller locking tuners, Collector owned and "as new" straight out of the box condition with plastic still on the pickguard and all accessories included.  The Beck Custom Artist was new for '06 and carries a $3078 list price - discounted to $2462 at the major online and retail chains.  There are only a few of this model on the secondary market right now as it's a relatively new model--plus it's considerably more expensive than the Artist Series Jeff Beck.  This one is immaculate, cleaner than a new most new ones hanging in the stores, and is just $1799.  Includes Custom Shop case, with embroidered C/S logo, full accessory bag, hang tags, strap, and certificate.  

Rick Kelly "Protocaster" Snakehead, (front/back), (headstock/neck), (rolled edges), (bridge/fretboard relic'ing).  Rick Kelly is a builder of killer guitars, based at Carmine Street Guitars in NYC.  His prices are almost insanely low for quality USA guitars, especially since the bodies are hand-cut at his shop, using the oldest and lightest swamp ash available.   This model, for instance, starts at $1200.  But here's the catch...the old "waiting list".  You'll have to be patient enough to wait a year or more to get your guitar.  This Protocaster is a single pickup Esquire style that's based on the original Fender Tele "Snakehead" that Leo built in the late 40's.  Fender Custom Shop came out with a Ltd Ed matching Snakehead guitar and amp set a few years back for like $10K or something.  Having played the Fender model and Rick's Protocaster, I would rate Rick's guitar as good as the C/S model.  I know that's a strong claim but this is one seriously nice guitar.  The hand-rolled fretboard edges are pure heaven to the hands, setup is perfect, bends with ease, and the light weight makes it comfortable for playing 4 sets a night.  For more on Rick's guitars, visit his site at this link and here. As stated on his site, it's powered by a single Duncan Antiquity, uses the oldest vintage woods from his stock and is a rare model with only a few built every year.  If you don't feel like waiting for a year, this one is "mint" (other than factory aging) and ready to ship at $999(HOLD-EV 8/18).  

2007 Rickenbacker 660/12 Jetglo, (front/back), (headstock), (case/acc.)   A true classic and rock icon, a Rick 12-string delivers the tone associated with The Byrds, Petty, Beatles, and countless others.  Whether it's a semi-hollowbody 300-series, or a solid body 600-series, a Rick 12 has a sound that is so distinctive that it's immediately recognizable and has the ability to define a song's sound like no other guitar ever made.  The Model 660/12 features a Maple cutaway body based on Rick's innovative "crested wave" design from the 1950's.  A slick rosewood fingerboard is outfitted with the classic triangular pearloid inlay markers and Rick's trademark "checkered" black and white binding set off the body, while white binding graces the neck.  The 660 is "electronically engineered to the exacting standards of the vintage reissue series," complete with Rick's own Vintage Single Coil Toaster Top pickups which are largely responsible for the guitar's defining "chime."    It also features Rick's dual field truss rod assembly, allowing each side of the neck to be adjusted individually which cross lamination also adds to neck rigidity.  The neck is a comfortable 1 3/4" wide at the nut, and 2 1/16" wide at the twelfth fret, slightly wider than the necks on the 330/360 models.  This model, finished in Jetglo, has that mirror-like Rick finish and it shines like glass with the only flaw being miniscule polishing lines visible only upon very close examination - otherwise dead mint.  List price on this model is $3109, discounted to $2175.  With Ricks, new pricing is frequently moot and you'll see many of them selling at list - or clean used ones selling for new prices, which makes this beautiful 660/12 a nice buy at $1599. 

2006 PRS CE24 Maple Top, (front/back), (headstock).  Just traded back in - fantastic CE24 in desirable Santana Yellow finish!  One of PRS's oldest models, first appearing 20 years ago and in production every year since then.  Body is mahogany with a figured maple cap, finished in Santana Yellow.  Neck is PRS's 25" scale with rosewood fretboard and non-painted headstock, which is much less common than the black headstocks I've had on most of my CE's.  Other features include PRS tremolo, PRS Phase II locking tuners, moon inlays, Wide-fat neck carve.  Pickups are the popular HFS bridge and Vintage Bass neck, controlled by 5-way rotary selector for choice of humbucker tones and inside single coils - and outside single coils.  This PRS is in beautiful shape with no wear such as buckle scratches or pick scratches, perfect frets, and overall 9.8 condition.  Many players prefer the feel and tone of PRS's bolt-on's and the quality is every bit as good as their set necks, in fact, the list price on this guitar is just $50 under the set-neck PRS Standard.  With a list of $3060, the CE Maple sells new discounted to $2142 but this barely played beauty is $800 less, just $1339.  Includes PRS case and assorted stuff.     

LOWEST PRICE:  Charvel/Fender EVH Frankenstein, (Front), (back), (neck), (case), (box).  Many of these went quickly at $25K, some were discounted to $20K, lowest price I've ever seen one sell for was $17,500.  This is the deal of the year on a guitar, 10 years from now, will be THE definitive EVH model.  You know the guitar, at least if you're a collector and/or EVH fan.  Fender Masterbuilt model with production limited to 300 world wide.  This guitar is here at the shop, ready to ship.  Unplayed, except for a brief demo by yours truly and for what it's worth, it's one of the best playing FMIC guitars I've had, with a remarkable acoustic tone, especially for a Floyd Rose model electric.  Although I've never seen the original Frankenstrat, the aging process is very realistic and I can imagine that it's a very authentic reproduction.  Ed supposedly had a hard time distinguishing his original from one of these.  For more details check out evhgear - or the 18 min. video from Fender and Ed at YouTube - or Ed's demo at the '07 NAMM show here.  NAMM show press release here.  Ships in original factory box and includes EVH Anvil flight case and factory-sealed accessory kit.  I'm not going to open it but I know it has a hand-signed certificate, letter from Ed, DVD, glossy photo, EVH picks, and perhaps some other stuff.  This models sold everywhere at $25K and most dealers have sold the one they got and the major chain stores are out.  Good things come to those who wait.  This one is brand new and the exact same guitar your buddy paid $25K for - but it's just $15K, plus shipping/insurance.  Will include bill of sale made out to you from the authorized dealer.   Will also include GW mag and DVD that details the history of this model.  As always, trades considered.  

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1998 American Standard Telecaster, (front/back), (headstock), (case/acc.).  Mint condition and a real beauty in Inca Silver with rosewood board.  I've sold so many of these that most of you probably have the spec's memorized but at the risk of being repetitive:   solid Alder body, one-piece maple neck with rosewood board and 9.5" radius, Bi-Flex truss rod, Micro-tilt neck adjustment, 22 medium jumbo frets, DeltaTone pickup system with hot bridge pickup - standard neck pickup - master volume - "No-load" tone control, 3-way switching, six saddle bridge with strings thru body, Schaller straplock ready, and Fender molded case.  All original except for one tasteful upgraded - tuners are Fender/Schaller locking style as found on the American Deluxe and tuner buttons upgraded to pearloid.  These tuners require no mod to install and we can install original tuners at no expense - or chrome tuner buttons in place of the pearl ones.  This Tele should be of interest to collectors as it's a '98 that looks like a 2008.  Totally flawless appearance - not even the common lacquer cracks in the cutaway.  Also, I don't think they discontinued Inca on this model several years ago so it's not terribly common.  Set-up on this guitar is incredible with very low action and bends perfectly.  Just a perfect Tele for $799.  

Fishman Loudbox Performer Acoustic Combo, (panel).  A lot of amp in a small package, loaded with all the features the acoustic player needs and also doubles as a mini-PA system for solo vocalist/guitarists or anyone in need of a highly portable PA system with enough power for a medium-sized hall.   There are many innovative aspects of this amp, starting with the basic design, which tilts back slightly when upright - plus has a pull-out bar to tilt it back even further (pic here).  Features include 130 watts output in a tri-amp design, with 80W through a pair of 6.5" low frequency drivers, 40W through a 4" mid-range cone, and 10W through a 1" neodymium soft-dome tweeter.  The custom-designed speaker array delivers deep bass reproduction and the digital effects (2 hall and 2 plate reverbs plus chorus) are available for additional sound shaping. The tri-amp design maximizes the amp's 130 watts to produce  rich and natural tone through one instrument channel and one mic channel (includes phantom power).  Each channel offers a 3-band EQ, feedback resistance, and effects loops, balanced DI, a mix DI, a tuner jack, and mute footswitch jack. There's also an aux input for your CD player/Tape deck.  At 35 lbs., this amp is incredibly portable but the tone is as fine as larger SWR or Fender combo's I've had weighing 25 lbs. more.  For more info click here for Fishman's site.  This amp has seen limited home use and is in flawless condition.  New ones are going for $799 but this one's "as new" for just $599.  Includes original manual and tag. 

Fender '65 Deluxe Reverb Ltd Ed, (panel - click to enlarge), (back - click to enlarge), "as new" straight out of the box condition and a rare model, especially here on the East Coast.  This model was made available only to independent dealers (no chain stores) and only 150 were made.  Specs are the same as the regular black Deluxe except for rough blonde tolex, wheat grill cloth, and most importantly a much better speaker with the Jensen P12Q with bell cover.   At $1428, they were a few hundred higher than the stock black Deluxe but the speaker alone justifies the cost.  The cool look is just icing on the cake.  The '65 Deluxe Reverb is a reissue of one of Fender’s all-time classics and considered by many to be the best club amp ever made. Featuring 22W all-tube circuit, dual channels, tremolo, and a quality Jensen P12Q, you can get the classic Fender clean tone with a wonderful break-up at manageable levels, with lush effects on channel two.  At 42 lbs. you won't need a 300 lb. roadie to carry it for you and it easily fits on the back seat of a compact car.  Original mid-60's Deluxe's are perhaps the hottest ticket on the vintage amp market but with clean examples going well above $2000.  This reissue is an excellent alternative - plus none of the glitches associated with a 40-year-old amp.  A new '65 Deluxe will set you back $949 but this one is in dead mint condition with very limited living room use, and one of the coolest looking little Fenders I've had at just $850(answered inquiries in order).  Includes manual and footswitch.  Note: I might have a brown Fender cover that fits this model for $20 - or a Tuki cover (padded with bottom panel) for $50.  

2003 Gibson '58 Historic Les Paul Standard - Brazilian Board,  (front/back), (headstock), (case/acc.).  Hard to find *dead mint* Brazilian board R8 with superb tone, stellar setup, and perhaps the darkest and most consistent Brazilian I've had on one of these (pic here).  Braz R8's are rare when compared to the more R9 and R7.  Total production on the R9 and R7 were 674 and 707, respectively, but only 256 of the R8's were produced.   Prices on the early 2003 Historics continue to rise and command prices up to 2X of comparable non-Braz fretboards.  The reason for this is two-fold:  (1) Gibson stopped using Brazilian on all their guitars in May, 2003 with an official announcement that they'll no longer use Brazilian on any of their guitars and, (2) the original Les Pauls from '58-'60 had Brazilian boards so these are the only true reproductions on the market.  As prices on these guitars will probably never go down, I encourage any interested person to download and save this pic, a chart that used to be on Gibson's site showing the highest serial number for each model that used Braz.  R8's, for instance, went up to #256 so any R8's with a serial "8 3256" or lower have a Brazilian board.  This particular one was made early in the production year, #038.  Interestingly, the serial reads the same frontwards and backwards, 8-3-0-3-8.   Set up is spectacular with low action and the guitar has remarkable tone and sustain.  There aren't many recent guitars that I consider as decent investments, but the early '03 Custom Shop Les Pauls are an exception.  I sold my last R8 Braz 2 years ago for $3200.  I paid well above that for this one.  For a mint example of a rare and eminently collectable Gibson, nicely priced at $4200.  

2001 Gretsch G6128TEE Elliot Easton Model,  (front/back), (headstock).  Elliot Easton of "The Cars" fame is noted for some of the tastiest lead lines in pop music during the 80's and Gretsch (as well as Kramer back in the day) honors him with a fine signature model, based on an old Duo-Jet.  Features include Maple carved top with glossy black finish, single cutaway walnut finished mahogany body, 2-piece maple neck joins body at the 16th fret, 22-fret ebony fretboard with pearloid thumb nail inlays, gold pickguard, white-bound body, fretboard and headstock, black/white top purfling, gold hardware, factory Bigsby tailpiece, T-O-M-style bridge, two Filtertron pickups, 3-way pickup selector switch, master volume, locking Sperzel tuners, 25" scale, 1-11/16" nut width, and T-top headstock logo.  Includes Gretsch case, certificate, and assorted paperwork.  This was a one-owner guitar that has seen very little use and the only real flaw is some of the gold plating has been removed by the owners insistence on frequent polishing of the hardware.  Body, neck, frets, are perfect.  This is a pre-Fender Gretsch and one seriously fine guitar.  It listed for $3075, $650 more than a stock Duo Jet, and a good deal on a barely played one with a simply killer setup at just $1499(HOLD-Scott L 8/15).  

Ernie Ball Musicman Silhouette Special HSS with Tremolo and Piezo, (front/back), (headstock), (case/acc.).  Wonderful Musicman in immaculate condition, totally tricked out with options including matching headstock, Musicman tremolo, and Musicman/Fishman Piezo bridge with dual outputs and recessed trim pots for mix/treb/bass (shown here).  This one also has added pearloid tuner buttons, so take your pick of these, or original chrome buttons.  Musicman guitars are among the best production guitars made.  For me, what really sets them apart are the necks, which have a feel of their own with a sleek, thin finish and a well-rounded profile that's easy to get your hand around.  The body is slightly small, lightweight (guitar is 8 lbs.), with a beautifully sculpted neck joint for easy access to the higher frets.  Features include 25.5" scale with 10" fretboard radius, 1 5/8" nut, Alder body with high gloss poly finish, optional Musicman vintage style tremolo bridge with solid steel saddles, Piezo bridge with preamp controls mounted to the output control plate, white pearloid pickguard, maple neck with Gunstock oil and hand-rubbed special wax blend, Schaller locking tuners, Graphite acrylic resin coated body cavity and aluminum lined pickguard to keep things hum-free, 5-way selector with DiMarzio HSS pickup configuration featuring the MusicMan "Silent Circuit", which reduces hum and retains true single coil sound.  I don't know how to date these without calling Ernie Ball but I would guess it's a 2007 based on condition and length of time owned by the original owner.  For full specs, click here for Musicman's Site.   This guitar looks like it's fresh off the showroom floor, without even a hint of wear, plastic still on the pickguard and backplate.  A new Silhouette Special  with trem will run you around $1400 - but with matching headstock and Piezo bridge you're looking at around $2K.  This one could be sold as new, and comes with an incredibly low setup, and is just a super guitar in all regards, nicely priced less than a no-options Silhouette at just $1199(HOLD-George, local).  For 49 reviews, which averaged a remarkable 9.5 overall, click here for Harmony-Central. 

EVH 5150III 1/2 Stack, (front panel), (side/back), (back), (accessories), (stock pic).   Immaculate condition - never played outside the bedroom. The latest and greatest of the new line of EVH gear, now made by FMIC (Fender).  For details, check out evhgearcom at this link.  Made to Edward Van Halen’s exacting specs. This is THE amp used in the studio and on stage by the preeminent guitarist of our time and the evolution of the 5150 started by EVH/Peavey. This amp is made for the road with heavy duty hardware and ultra-solid construction, vertically-mounted preamp tubes with premium sockets. It features 3 completely independent channels, 100W RMS output via a quad of 6L6's - with eight 12AX7's in the preamp stage, custom made transformers and special biasing to help nail Ed’s fabled Variable AC effect, lower-noise preamp circuitry with less hiss & hum than many ultra-high gain amplifiers, preamp designed to add extremely high harmonic content that makes notes seem to jump out of the guitar, and inspires creative, unpredictable playing. Steel-housed floorboard features color-coded LEDs to instantly select any of the three channels with one button push and smartly color-coded for instant recognition of your channel/effects situation. Includes the matching 5150III 412 cabinet, which at 100W is the perfect companion. The cabinet is likewise built for the road with Premium birch-ply construction, four 15-ohm Celestion G12EVH 12" speakers, large radius rounded edges, metal corners, recessed metal handles, single 1/4" input, and textured vinyl covering with heavy woven black grill cloth. Accessories include pop-out heavy duty casters, 4-button floorboard (Ch-1, Ch-2, Ch-3, Effects), a very long connecting cable, and a top-of-the-line speaker cable as well as manuals for amp and cab.  This setup sells new for $3099 but you can have this one, in essence brand new, for $1000 less, just $2099.  Local players note:  I would definitely entertain a local trade for a guitar(s) of equal new retail price, especially a higher-end Gibson or Custom Shop Fender.  

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USA '62 Reissue Stratocaster, (front/back), (headstock), (Gray-back Abby pickups), (Genuine Fender Replacement body).  We built this up from scratch with some fine parts.  The body is the "Genuine Fender Replacement" '62, with correct 3-tone sunburst and nitro finish.  It's the exact model used on the USA Vintage '62 Strat.  Fender no longer makes the replacement bodies and necks and these are hard to find.  They're easily identified by the impressed seal under the neckplate area (body) or inlaid Fender "coin" on the back of the headstock of their necks.  Speaking of necks, for this one we chose a 2000 American Series neck with proper spaghetti logo and rosewood board.  In place of the standard Ping tuners, we upgraded them to Fender/Schaller locking type in polished chrome.  The "heart" of this guitar, largely responsible for its remarkable tone, is a new set of Abigail Ybarra gray-bobbin pickups.  Depending on your web source, Abby retired and they no longer make these pickups - but feel free to call Fender to confirm this if it's important.  All I know is they're fantastic sounding pickups from the lady who's been winding some of the finest pickups on the planet since the 50's.  Bridge is a USA Vintage series with stamped saddles and heavy block, pots/switch are CTS, and plastic is genuine Fender aged white.  This is a fabulous guitar and with professional assembly by Martin, it's definitely custom shop quality - for less.  $1099 includes standard Fender case.   

Hughes&Kettner Red Box MKIII Cabinetuator, the best guitar direct box (DI) for the money and better tone and less headaches than mic'ing your cabinet.  The Red Box MKIII converts your amp's line out or speaker out signal into a balanced, frequency-compensated signal that you can feed directly into a mixer.  An upgrade over the MK II, the III features a switch to emulate either a 4x12-cabinet or combo.  Works equally great live or studio, and runs on just about any power supply unit (9-15V AC or 9-24V DC), Phantom power, or 9V battery.  Just as good as the reissued "Red Box Classic" but $50 cheaper at $69.  If you don't need the 4X12/Combo switch, I have the MKII available for $59. 

1998 Guild JF30-12 Jumbo, (front/back), (headstock/neck), (sides), (case).  Very desirable Westerly RI model, built well before the Fender buyout.  Some beautiful flamed maple was used on this model, back, sides, and neck.  Features include 17" jumbo body, natural finish, solid spruce top, solid maple sides, arched laminated maple back, 2-piece maple neck with mahogany center strip, 20-fret rosewood fretboard with dot inlays, rosewood bridge, tortoise plastic pickguard, gold Grover mini Rotomatic tuners, white-bound body, 4-ply top purfling, pearloid Chesterfield headstock inlay and logo, 1-7/8" nut width, 25.5" scale, body depth runs 4" to 5".  Tone is very bright and articulate and really cuts through in a jam session, plus the added size of the body lends itself to a fuller tone on the bottom end.  This guitar has seen very little playing time so it has perfect frets and no notably flaws anywhere; overall 9+ condition.  Includes original case and manual.  Under Fender Guild discontinued this model in favor of their Chinese line, model GAD-JF3012, which are good guitars for the money ($1089), but for less than a new GAD-series, you can own this fine USA model, in desirable Natural finish and a Westerly lineage.  With this beauty at $1050, I think there's no comparison over which is the better value.  

2007 Martin USA D12X1 with Pickup, (front/back), (headstock), (gigbag).  One of Martin's newer X-series, which combines a solid Spruce top with high pressure laminate sides and back.  This model is even made at their Nazareth PA plant, rather than Mexico, where many of the X-series are made.  The tone is warm and cozy, with a very nice chime.  It's the kind of tone that's especially well suited for sitting in your living room playing solo.  The action is very low for a 12 and the guitar plays with remarkable ease.  With attention to the important nut and saddle, Martin uses a compensated Tusq saddle and a white Corian nut which contribute to better intonation and tone.  One important upgraded:  a K&K Pure Western pickup has been installed, along with an endpin output jack.  The Pure Western requires no modification and is a remarkably powerful passive system that reproduces the acoustic tone very accurately with minimum coloration.  It utilizes three sensors under the bridge plate which are wired directly to the output jack.  For more details on the K&K system, click here.  A stock D12X1 sells for $599 and you can expect to pay around $200 more for a professionally installed K&K system.  If you're looking for a great playing 12 that you can use on stage, this is a nice one, and priced lower than a stock D12X1 at just $579, plus includes a quality gigbag.  Offered in flawless condition. 

Marshall VS65R Combo, (back), (panel - click to expand).  Most of you who have tried Marshall's Valvestate technology agree that they have pretty much nailed the valve (tube) tone...without the use of tubes.  Sure, it has a 12AX7 in the preamp for some added warmth, but we're talking power tube saturation, the tone that really defines a tube amp, which has somehow been engineered into the design of this amp.  Features include a 65 Watt Valvestate power stage into a Marshall Goldback 12" speaker, ECC83 [12AX7] pre-amp tube which is active on both channels, Two separate channels 'Clean' and 'Overdrive', with the Clean controls - Treble, Middle and Bass controls plus a Tone Shift switch for tonal options .  On the Overdrive channel you have Gain, Volume, Treble, Bass and a very integral Contour control, which dramatically changes the voice of the OD channel - perfect for dialing in a heavy mid Rock tone - or a scooped mid Metal tone.  Other features include channel select via front panel or footswitch (included), built-in spring reverb, and a nice touch, an "FX" mix control on the front panel in case you're running something through the effects loop. On the back panel there's a headphone jack [which mutes the internal speaker], Line Out jack for connection to external equipment, and effects loop.  This amp is better than most Marshalls at covering a lot of ground.  It cleans up well, and gets as dirty as most players would need.  At 65 watts, it's plenty for most stages but as a small 1X12, it's easy to transport to practice.  Offered in beautiful condition and it's a lot of amp for $329.  Includes footswitch. 

1988 Washburn SBT-22 Solidbody Acoustic, (front/back), (headstock).  Fairly rare model from Washburn, made only from ca. '88-'89.  The "SB" series was the replacement for their Mirage Series, continuing their line of solid body acoustics, although losing the "sound hole" which was featured on the Mirage's.  This particular model, the SB"T", was their Tele-shaped body, which was followed shortly by their SB"S" Strat-shaped body.  It's a very comfortable guitar to play, with very lightweight body that's around the same thickness as a regular electric Tele.  Unlike the Kramer's Ferrington line which was produced around the same era, the SBT-21 is a well made guitar which is clearly a cut well above the Ferrington.  The SBT features active electronics with a volume, mid-boost, and tone.  Remarkably, this guitar stands up well to higher gain amp settings and while it's more prone to feedback than a steel string electric, even when played through a distorted amp the tone is full with none of the harshness found in many acoustic/electrics.  Other features include bound body finished in Candy Apple Red, 22 medium jumbo frets, 6/side Grover tuners, angle headstock, and recessed back plates (shown here).  Overall nice shape for a used guitar, perfect frets, and a wonderful setup.  This would be an excellent addition to your stage guitar arsenal and a quality guitar for just $325. 

1988 Jackson USA Dinky, (pic2), San Dimas plate but during this era they're actually Ontario Calif. made.   Fantastic metal axe and *better* than new with the addition of a genuine GMW neck.  Not just a simple neck replacement, this guitar was sent to GMW and the neck was installed by Lee himself, after the original neck was cracked, so the fit is perfect; the setup superb (pic here).  The neck is solid maple--no maple cap--with skunk stripe, and features medium jumbo frets with zero wear, San Dimas style Gotoh tuners (wood screw at 6 o'clock), truss adjustment at the butt, and 1 11/16 nut width.  Logo was, of course, not installed by GMW but is a quality logo that we can lacquer over - or remove - at the new owner's request.  This neck is totally raw, without even a sealer coat, and will only get sleeker and faster with age.  Other features are 7/8 size Dinky body with original factory red finish in near pristine condition with the desirable Schaller/Jackson Floyd Rose tremolo and a killer pair of Duncans with a Duncan Distortion in the bridge and a Duncan Classic Strat Stack humbucker in the neck.  Controls are simply a 3-way and volume control.  Note:  I have a used Jackson rosewood neck we can swap out if desired but, honestly, it's not going to play as nice as this GMW.  Excellent value on an interesting Dinky - super clean - killer player - great tone - all for $699(HOLD-Wayne P 8/12).  Includes Charvel/Jackson case.  

2007 Gibson Les Paul Standard Plus 60's Neck, (front/back), (headstock) (inlays/aged binding), (case/etc.).  A real beauty with a AA flamed top that, to many players, is more desirable than the maple on steroids look of a Class 5 or Historic '59.  This one, finished in a transparent cranberry, has rather wide flame that goes up into the cutaway and as a Plus model, the factory includes--but doesn't install--the pickguard, so as to not obscure any of the figured wood.  This model features a tapered peghead, push-in-bushing, aged tuning keys, and nickel hardware.  A pair of BurstBucker Pro pickups deliver a tighter tone with more midrange.   In a nod toward the vintage look, Gibson doesn't include the truss rod cover with the bold "Standard" engraved upon it, opting for the vintage style plain cover with a removable sticker that indicates which neck profile the guitar has.  All the regular Les Paul specs including gloss lacquered Mahogany body with maple cap, chambered body - weighing in at just 7.6 lbs., maple neck with rosewood fretboard, and the usual dual volume and tone controls with 3-way selector.  This model lists at $3448 and this one is unplayed and perfect for just $1999.

Behringer Keyboard/PA Amp System KX1200, designed as a portable PA or a Keyboard amp. Enough power for practice PA or restaurant gigs, with 120 watts, via a trio of speakers - 15" woofer, 5" mid-range speaker and HF driver.  At home, in the rehearsal room, on smaller stages or in a conference room or trade show booth, you need an amplification solution that's compact and light enough to be easily transported and fit in a tight space, yet powerful enough to cut through, precise enough to reproduce your sounds accurately and flexible enough to handle a wide variety of signals. Players will also appreciate the KX1200 as a dedicated monitoring system on larger stages as you'll be able to hear yourself above the rest of the band.  Features dual recessed handles for easy transport - or 2-person carry.  For full description check out Behringer's Spec sheet here.  I do an occasional solo gig, guitar and vocals, and this thing sounds great for my purposes and I have no problem recommending them to anyone looking for a good portable pa system - or keyboard amp.  These things are portable but not light so shipping might be a tad high, but at $175, I think it's an excellent value.  

Korg N1 88-Note Synth, (close-up - click to enlarge).  Very popular board when it was released in '98, incorporating Korg's famed AI2 synthesis.  Although capable of much more, in the most basic form this board has a huge library of onboard sound patches, with 1,269 individual sound programs and 402 combinations and 39 drum kits built-in.  Additionally, with 88 notes and weighted keys, plus pitch bend, velocity, and after touch, it makes a good mother board to drive all your 4- and 5-octave boards or tone modules.  It also provides two completely independent stereo multi effect units with 48 types of effects, such as a resonance filter, chorus, delay and rotary speaker. Polyphony is a generous 64 notes (in Single mode). In the versatile Performance mode, the front panel provides four knobs for dynamic, analog-style control in real-time: VDA Attack/ Release Times, VDF Cutoff, and Effect Dynamic Modulation. The user can also choose from twelve other parameters for assignment to these knobs, enabling control of a total of sixteen different parameters.  Click here for all the info from Korg's site.  This board had a list price well above $2K during its run from '98 to early '00's and for an 88-note with this much power, is an excellent value at $599 today.  Includes manuals and power supply (pic).  

1986 Fender Stratocaster XII, (front/back), (headstock).  Rare model from Fender Japan - only the 4th one I've ever had - and the very desirable Made in Japan (not Crafted) - from the mid-80's.  The history of this model begins in the mid-60's with a Fender model call the "Electric XII", with sort of a Jaguar-shaped body and an innovative 12-saddle bridge, designed for precise adjustments of individual string heights and intonation, with strings-thru body design for increased sustain.  The 12-string craze of the 1960's was very short-lived, and the Electric XII was discontinued in 1969.  Jump ahead around a decade and a half and we have this model - a twelve-string Strat, the Strat XII, which was introduced by Fender Japan in the late 80's.   This model has 22 frets and, rather unusual, a Gibson scale length of 24.75 inches.  This model was discontinued in 1993 and was forgotten until the Crafted in Japan models came out this year.  This guitar is in beautiful shape, buffed out to a mirror gloss finish with no major flaws.  At over 20 years old it is a proven lower-end investment piece and, most importantly, a really player, with low action and a distinct chimey tone that can do a pseudo-Byrds/Petty impression or a huge sounding Strat.  An excellent value on a 22-year-old Fender Japan collectable guitar at $750.  Includes TKL tolex case.  

Fender MIK Yngwie-style Stratocaster, (front/back), (headstock).  This was previously a Korean Strat, possibly a Squier, with the serial and country of manufacture rubbed off, as shown here (this headstock is pictured over a non-modified example).  The defining characteristic of this guitar is the entire fretboard has been scalloped, which has been used by great success by Neo-Classical great Yngwie Malmsteen.  Cosmetically, the scallop job is good, although probably not professional, but it's a lot better than I could.  Functionally, it works flawlessly and will allow you to do trills by just pressing down on the fret rather than the side-to-side conventional method.  Finished in vintage white, which has the appearance of a yellowed-out Olympic White, this guitar is also accented by a tasteful combination of gold and chrome hardware, such as the bridge which is chrome, with gold saddles and gold wood screws.  I'm not sure what kind of bridge this is, but it's definitely a quality unit, with a large tremolo block of steel rather than the cheap mix that would have been stock on this model.  As far as the rest of the hardware - gold output jack and gold tuners, which are excellent quality tuners from a Japan designer series Strat, made by Gotoh and feature pearloid buttons.  Since most players who like Yngwie style music will stick to the bridge pickup, that has been changed to a DiMarzio Fast Track DP-181, a high output Strat pickup which provides the single coil tone, with hum-canceling side-by-side coils.  Not pictured but included are a back cover.  Cosmetically the guitar has a few small finish chips (shown here) as well as a few fine finish cracks in the normal cutaway area, and by each strap pin.  If you're looking for the essence of a Malmsteen signature model, this one's almost $1K cheaper and an excellent playing Strat.  $429.  Note:  We can install a vintage logo for add ional cost if desired.  

Vintage Gibson ES-335 Case, late 60's/early 70's, purple velvet lining with black tolex exterior.  Structurally sound, all latches and hinges intact, overall very good shape.  $250. 

Roland Micro Cube AC/DC Modeling Amp, (panel).  Very cool little amp and the perfect choice for practice, beach, or subway performers as it runs on wall adapter - or six AA batteries.  Features a 5" speaker, 7 COSM guitar amp models including JC-120 and a special mic preamp model, 6 DSP effects: chorus, flanger, phaser, tremolo, and separate delay/reverb New Digital Tuning Fork with support for flat tunings up to 2 semitones, Recording/headphones output and stereo auxiliary input for CD players, etc.  Runs on 6 AA batteries or AC adapter (not supplied) and includes carrying strap.  Perfect condition and sounds surprisingly good on all fronts - clean sound, vintage sound, screaming metal, and effects.  $79.  

2002 Fender Squier Standard Strat - Sunburst, (front/back), (headstock).  Nice import Strat with one important upgrade.  Martin observed the ceramic pickups in these imports sound overly harsh but a check under the guard reveals why.  Stock pots on this model are 500K, rather than the normal 250K, which makes the tone overly bright and brittle.  Does Fender do this so that their higher end models, which are extremely similar in other regards, stand out by comparison?  Hey, I don't want to start a congressional investigation but it's a curious thought.  Anyhow, we changed the pots to USA CTS 250's (pic here), as well as the proper USA capacitor and the result was a Strat that sounded like a Strat is supposed to sound.  It's also worth noting that when I'm on buying trips I generally pass on 80% of the imports I come across and only take the ones with potential for exceptional setup and this guitar is a good example as it plays as well as the average $700 USA model   Features include quality Ping tuners and stag-pole pickups and vintage bridge with stamped saddles (pic here).  This one was missing the back cover so we installed a new tortoise shell cover.  I don't see many of these in sunburst and the sunburst finish on this one is immaculate, with no wear anywhere on this guitar.  With the pot situation "fixed", this guitar offers an excellent value for the money and you're guaranteed to get a great player with a REAL set-up - just $179.  

2001 Gibson Les Paul Standard Plus w/upgrades, (front/back), (headstock/inlay).  A real beauty in Dark Burst, with an interesting flame pattern that works well with this color.  As cool as it looks, it has been upgraded to sound even cooler - and 2X more versatile - with the addition of a pair of DiMarzio Virtual Vintage PAF's, and push/pull switches on both the tone pots.  The VV PAF's use Alnico 5 magnet to generate the same low string-pull that an Alnico 2 or 3 produces, while combing the most sought after characteristics of a humbucker -  low note clarity and high note warmth. The neck model is described as a pure, bell-tone chime and the bridge model, a thicker, woody sound.  This model also has been upgraded with Tonepros bridge and tailpiece, which weren't stock for this year.  Very clean condition with the worst flaw being some buckle scratches on back that are in the finish only.  Set up is perfect; the tone sublime.  You're going to pay $2K for a regular Standard but why not get this striking Plus model, with a tasteful mod that doubles your tonal palette, for less.  Just $1750(HOLD-Billy C, Josh)  and includes standard Gibson case in nice condition.   

2007 Fender American Vintage Hot Rod '57 Stratocaster, (front/back), (headstock/neck), (case/acc).  Beautiful 9.8 condition and barely played.  The Hot Rod '57 combines classic looks of a '57 with Nitro finish, but with a modern tone and feel.  Classic features include vintage styling and a thin-skin nitrocellulose lacquer finish with modern features include SCN pickups in the neck and middle positions, a DiMarzio Tone Zone bridge pickup, a satin-backed neck with a flatter radius and medium-jumbo frets.  Features include thin-skin nitro high gloss finish, 1-piece maple neck with soft-V profile with a gloss Nitro finish on top - satin finished on back for comfort, modern 9.5" radius, 21 medium-jumbo frets, American vintage tremolo, Fender/Gotoh vintage tuners, single-ply white pickguard and back plate, and vintage tweed case.  This one even has some flame in the neck (pic).  This finish will naturally relic out rather quickly and pro players who use this guitar every night will have a bona fide "relic" within a year.  This is a fantastic model and recommended for all the players who don't like small vintage frets and want a flatter fretboard plus the versatility of a Tone Zone/SCN pickup combination.  Includes Fender Tweed case, strap, spray care kit, tags, and paperwork.  Lists at $2299 and sells new for $1629, but this one is in beautiful shape, with a perfect setup, and just may offer a combination of features to be your perfect Strat - for just $1250.

Tokai Love Rock '59 Les Paul Style, (front/back), (headstock).  2003 model which I believe is an ALS70.  Although crafted in Korea, the quality is unmistakable, much like the famed lawsuit "Love Rock" model of the 70's.  Very attractive flamed maple cap with just enough figuring to be a real example of a 50's, finished in dark burst.  Specs during this era called for solid Alder rather than mahogany but looking inside the cavity, this one appears to be mahogany, with a mahogany set neck.  Quality fretboard inlays that look much more like the originals than most Epi's or other imports.  All stock except upgraded with a Duncan Zebra JB in the bridge.  A especially nice player with a classic Paul tone and I actually slightly prefer the stock neck humbucker to the JB, as it has a very full tone with a singing quality that makes the guitar sound huge.  This is a very clean guitar, with a killer setup and tone, and an excellent value at $499 with gigbag.  

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Boss GT-8 Guitar Effects Processor, (close-up - click to enlarge).  The latest and greatest from the #1 producer of guitar effects.  Just when you think Boss has produced the best multi-effect possible, they come out with a new one, better than the last.  There are too many features to list here (click here for Boss) but as a brief description:  The GT-8 features a revolutionary dynamic sensitivity switching mode that switches between two effects. You can play in one amp model/effects patch when picking lightly and automatically switch into another configuration when you pick hard. Dual modeling engines let you layer and pan different amp models together. Seamless program change lets delays and 'verbs decay naturally when you switch channels.  Features 46 amp models each have a solo mode for instant access to an optimized hi-gain soloing sound, 200 preset patches and 140 user patches with an intuitive layout to make it easy to get around on, 44 effects types include compressors, reverbs, choruses, EQs, wah models, noise gates, synth waves, sitar, acoustic models, and much, much more.  Fully programmable routing lets you connect all 13 simultaneous effects in any order you wish.  Also features in incredible THIRTY Overdrive/Distortion models and expansive I/O options include an external effects loop that enables you to add in your effect that you can't quite nail on the GT-8.  This unit is flawless condition and comes in original inner/outer boxes with manual and power supply.  With new ones going for $449, get this "as new" one for just $339.  It's an exceptional sounding unit and probably the last multi-effect you'll ever need.

Ibanez JS-100 Pickups, Model AH-1 and AH-2 from an Ibanez Joe Satriani JS-100.  Clean shape, designed for split coil option.  These are very good sounding pickups, close to DiMarzio quality, for 1/2 the cost.  $49/pair.  

1987 Fender Standard Precision Bass, (front/back), (headstock).  Insanely clean 21-year-old Precision that looks like it was played for a few months and then tucked away for a few decades.  These 80's Japan Standards are excellent quality but built during a time when Japanese labor was cheaper which allowed Fender to price them well below their USA models.  Candy Apple Red finish is near mint with no buckle or button scratches, overall 9.8 condition.  Fretboard exhibits zero wear or discoloration and is mint.  The set up on this bass is incredible and it has excellent sustain and the fat bottom that you love in a P-bass.  Just a super Japan Precision for just $499.  Includes original manual and bill of sale (pic here) as well as choice of Fender gigbag or a generic hardshell case.  

Clark Beaufort "Tweed Deluxe", (back), (panel), (label/tubes).  3rd one of these I've had in the past few months and this one was order without any options, closer to the vintage vibe that many of you are looking for.  Rather than give you a brief opinion on tone, read a report from a true expert, Gerald Weber, reporting for Vintage Guitar Mag click here.  Clark builds accurate Fender tweed era replica amplifiers without compromise.  Finger jointed pine cabinets covered with aged sealed tweed, triple chrome plated steel chassis, the best in the industry custom wound paper bobbin transformers, eyelet boards point to point wired with cloth covered solid wire, custom manufactured, Sprague, and SoZo, Allen Bradley carbon composition resistors, CTS potentiometers, Carling switches, military grade tube sockets, and quality tubes.  Clark amps are all about quality and exactness to Leo Fender's tradition.  The Beaufort specifically is a Twelve watter with 5E3 circuitry, one twelve combo with Voltage corrected power and custom wound output transformer.  Normal and Bright channels with common tone control.  NOS tube compliment is one NOS Phillips Jan 5Y3GT, two reissue 6V6 Tung Sol, one 12AX7 Tung Sol RI, and one NOS 12AY7.  The cabinet is built to the stock size 5E3 cabinet and lacquer coated to a perfect orange amber patina.  The Beauford is the perfect size and power level for practice and performance.  This amp is in immaculate condition and like the last two, sounds incredible.  Very few on the used market and this one is like buying new, except for much less.  Just $999.  More details at Clark's Site here.  

2006 Fender Deluxe Player's Stratocaster, (front/back), (headstock).  A stunning Strat with upscale features at a remarkable price and with the sunburst ash body, black guard, and gold hardware, it very much has an SRV vibe.  Not just killer looks, Fender chose their popular Vintage Noiseless pickups on this model, which are noted for vintage tone, without the vintage hum.  The quality doesn't stop there - solid ash body, gold hardware, AND a mini-pushbutton which, along with the 5-way, gives you 7 great choices of tones including neck and bridge - or all three at once.  Other features include 4-ply black guard, flat 12" radius for easy playing, vintage trem, vintage tuners, and 60th Anniversary badge on back of headstock.  This guitar is immaculate (even the "Noiseless" lettering is perfect) and a killer Strat for just $499.  It's set up to perfection and ready to gig - and with these pickups, the pro player can definitely gig on this baby.   

Gretsch 5120BK and 5120OR Electromagnetic Hollowbody, (pic2), (back).   Incredibly low action - plays better than higher end Gretsches at $3500 list.  Note:  I just got in 2 more of these, including one in orange which sold out quickly the last time.  These were never retailed, but cosmetic seconds for reasons we can't spot - they're flawless.  Features include maple body and neck, bound body front and back, Gretsch custom dual-coil humbuckers, bound neck, Bigsby licensed B700 tremolo, neo-classical thumbnail inlays, clear plexi pickguard.  This model sells new for $599 but these are perfect, set up better than factory, and a super buy on a hollowbody for just $450.  I can include a free gigbag or new TKL hardshell case (pic here), plush maroon lining with arched top,  available for $75 if desired. 

1960 Fender Precision Bass Body - Complete.  Just add a slab-board neck (and pickguard if you're finicky) and you're jamming out with an original '60 P-bass.  I know a number of you have been waiting for a pickup set for years but I'm going to try to not part it out.  If it's still around in a month, I'll consider. Description of what you're getting:  Lightweight body, 5 lbs. "loaded", including pots and pickup (bridge was off when I weighed it).  Includes pots/cap - all wiring looks like original solder joints to me.  Body - stripped, original sunburst finish under neckplate and under bridge, dated in cavity, no routes.  All electronics - pickup, pots, cap, output jack.  Bridge, including screws and knobs.  You'll see stripped '60 bodies going at $1K.  Pics:  (back showing pin router holes), (front/back), (body date), (side), (bridge), (cap), (knobs), (pickups pickups#2 = 11.08K showing original winding), (pickup covers), (pots pic2 = 36th week, 1960).  If you just need 1/2 of these parts, you'll likely pay over $1K from a vintage parts dealer.  This lot will make it easy to build your dream vintage slab-board P-bass, with one-stop shopping and a lot discount.  $1800.  Note: Priority will go to anyone who inquired before it was put on layaway a few months ago. 

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2000 Brian Moore iGuitar 8.13 with Roland Interface, (front/back), (headstock/neck), (controls).  Brian Moore's top-of-the-line i-Series, which are some of the best imports ever made in my opinion.  The 8.13 has all the upscale features and does it all - magnetic pickups - RMC/Piezo bridge for acoustic tone - and 13-pin RMC jack for use as a midi controller.  The controls look complex but are easy once you play with it for a few hours:  Starting at 12 o'clock controls are: Magnetic pickup volume, Synth volume, guitar/both/synth switch, midi patch up/down, magnetic pickup tone w/push-pull, and acoustic tone.  In the middle is the 3-way selector to control the magnetic pickups.  Upscale features include an absolutely stunning quilted maple top finished in natural, Sperzel USA locking tuners, Seymour Duncan JB neck and bridge pickups plus push/pull tone pot to run either/both pickups in single/humbucker mode, Abalone dot inlays, super flat 15" fretboard radius, ingenious output jack location on back, comfort contoured body, and sculpted headstock.  Perhaps the most powerful aspect of this guitar, the 13-pin jack is an RMC polydrive system provides direct access to all of the latest versions of 13-pin guitar synth products with piezo input capability (Roland, Axon, and Yamaha) and uses RMC piezo saddles for superior tracking compared to externally mounted synth pickups.  Click here for Brian Moore's site.  The setup on this guitar is fantastic and along with it's light weight and ergonomic design, this is one o the most comfortable guitars to strap on a play 4 sets than you'll ever find.  It's also the perfect guitar for a 3-piece band where the guitarist can cover electric, acoustic, and synth fills, simultaneously, without ever changing instruments.  List price on this model is $1595, sold at discount for $1195, but available in beautiful shape and set up to perfection - for just $750(HOLD-Steve S 7/31) - and one of the most stunning quilt tops, in the best finish, Natural.  Includes BM gigbag, again, one of the best quality around with lots of padding and plenty of storage space.  

1990 PRS CE24 Maple Top - Black, (front/back), (headstock).   One of my favorite PRS's in fact I debated keeping it as one of my personal guitars.  Nothing really fancy going on here, just a great old-factory PRS.  This model is largely a hand-made guitar, built before PRS was using CNC machines, and has the desirable short heel (pic), original HFS/Vintage Bass pickups with plain paper stickers (shown here), wide-thin neck, 1-piece Mil-Com bridge, original PRS locking tuners, colorful Moon inlays, and small PRS logo.  Most CE's during this era were all mahogany or, if they were maple tops, most had transparent finishes.  This one finished in solid black with just the taped-off maple "binding" is uncommon from my experience.  This guitar has been played so there are pick and buckle scratches and some finish worn off around the unfinished headstock edge but the frets are in excellent shape and the guitar is a monster player with excellent tone.  Low action that you expect on a PRS, and all 5 settings on the rotary are quite distinct and the guitar is very lively when played acoustically.  All of the old factory PRS's (also known, incorrectly as "pre-factory") continue to rise in value and when you can find them less than comparable recent models, you're getting a good investment and a great guitar.  This one is all original, and a great guitar for the player or collector who doesn't mind some playing wear - just $1499(HOLD-Wiet RN).  Includes original case.  

1994 PRS CE24 Maple Top - Scarlet Red w/Birds, (front/back), (headstock).   Another old-factory PRS and somewhat rare with bird inlays, which during this period were real pearl rather than the cheaper Abalone/Abalam that followed around '96.  This one was also factory ordered with a Dragon Treble pickup (pickup/cavity) in addition to the stock Vintage Bass.  Nicely figured maple top, not a "10" but a pleasing look and with the pearl birds, presents a very nice appearance.   Average playing wear but back is very clean (back) and no heavy pick scratches.  Worst flaw is some finish worn off around the unfinished headstock edge.  Frets have been lightly dressed and the guitar sets up very well and sounds excellent.   Desirable short heel (pic) model which to me is the most comfortable PRS to get around on.   Nice deal on an old-factory maple top at $1499(several inquiries; answering in order).  Includes original case.  

THD Hot Plate 4 Ohms Attenuator, for 4 Ohm load and works best for amps with a 4 ohm output and 4-ohm speaker load (including 8 ohm combo with 8 ohm extension cab - or a 4 ohm combo or head).  Offers Bright and Deep switches for tailoring your sound - Bright switch gives you two different high frequency levels to compensate for an overly bright, or dull speaker cabinet while the Deep switch offers two distinct bass settings to help you fill out the bottom end, or reduce the bass in a cabinet with too much low end.  Has built in noise reduction up to 10dB, line out, and a fan to keep it cool.  Perfect shape, works flawlessly, and with new ones going for $299, a sweet deal for $209.  For full specs click here for THD's site.  

Pics fixed: Tokai ES-335 Copy, (front/back), (headstock).  Excellent quality imported Dot copy.   This is a recent model but Tokai's quality today seems to be as good as it's been for the last few decades, which is top notch.  Plays fantastic with very low action and bends true and easy.  Fit/finish are excellent as well.  I'm not up on my overseas factories, but this guitar impresses me twice as much as Epiphone.  Beautiful condition, perefect frets, and an excellent semi-hollowbody for $475.  Includes the common "pleather" gigbag. 

1989 Fender Korea Squier Precision Bass, (front/back), (headstock).  Same quality as the MIK Strat above but a few years earlier when the Squier logo was more pronounced - and a perfect mate if anyone is looking for a guitar/bass set.  Excellent player with the fat bottom Precision tone that works great on recordings or live settings - plus a nice weight that will be comfortable set after set.  Tuners are quality vintage style licensed Schallers that stay in tune perfectly.  Compared to the current model Indonesian or Chinese Squiers, these Korean models are better quality in my opinion and are generally more highly regarded perhaps because Fender's production was simply much lower 19 years ago.  Very nice shape and a good value P-bass at just $199. 

1993 Fender Korea Squier Standard Fat Stratocaster, (front/back), (headstock).  One of the better quality Squiers in my opinion, in fact, you have to look closely at the tip of the headstock to even see the Squier logo.  This one has 2 tasteful mods: a red tortoise shell pickguard and, more importantly, a Fender DH-1 Atomic humbuckers, same model used on the American Deluxe Strat.  Along with the two original ceramic single coils is that you get your choice of traditional Strat tones - or a fat, searing humbucker tones made for lead riffs or chunky rhythms.  A look under the guard (pic here), also shows a USA 5-way switch and full size pots rather than the stock mini-pots.  Overall in beautiful shape and a good Strat for the money at just $249 including Fender gigbag. 

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2006 Gibson Les Paul Studio Premium Plus, (front/back), (headstock).  Stunning upscale Studio.  Your basic Les Paul Studio except with one obvious difference - a truly fine figured maple top.  Gibson calls this a AAA but that can cover a wide range.  The figuring on this guitar is very uniform and looks great from any angle, definitely one of the better 3A tops you'll see from Gibson.  All the usual Les Paul features plus '59 rounded neck profile, gold hardware, 490R/498T Alnico humbuckers, special truss rod cover, and like most of the upgraded tops, pickguard isn't attached, left up to the owner whether or not to drill a hole in the top to mount it.  This guitar plays beautifully, sounds great, and is in flawless condition.   If you're looking for a killer top on a Les Paul, you can own this one for the same price as a new plain top Studio - $1199(SOLD-Chris E).  Includes original case etc. 

Dean Razorback V Standard - Black or Candy Apple Red, (front/back), (headstock/V neck profile).  Personally designed by the late, great Dimebag Darrell in 2004 before his untimely passing.  By this year Dimebag had returned to Dean and had begun work on several signature models with this Razorback V being one of his final contributions.  It cuts a figure much like the time-tested Flying V, only more dangerous looking with a few more jagged edges and actually more comfortable with the addition to sleek body bevels.  The Razorback V features a mahogany neck and body, a rosewood fretboard with a super flat 16" radius, and a very comfortably contoured neck heel (shown here) which allows very easy access to the upper frets.  Pickups are a Seymour Duncan Dimebucker pickup at the bridge with a Dean humbucker in the neck with the edges taped down, Dimebag style.   The neck is a radical departure from rock/metal axes, traditionally outfitted with a very thin profile.  The neck on this model is quite substantial, with a rounded-V profile that feels a lot like a '56 Strat.  Quality hardware with Grover tuners and a recessed, double-locking licensed Floyd Rose tremolo (pickups/trem) keeps it in tune perfectly.  Controls are straight ahead 3-way selector with master tone and volume, with easy grip circles on the volume.  With a list of $1550, these were selling for $999 but I have a few in stock, never retailed, first quality, and perfect, for 55% off list, $697.  With a pro in-house setup, these guitars are an incredible value for the money.   Includes Dean hardshell case and comes in gloss black finish or Candy Apple Red metallic.  

Fender Muddy Waters Tele with Warmoth Boat Neck, (front/back), (headstock).  For fans of Warmoth's "Boat Neck", i.e. a huge V-shaped profile, here you go.  Original Fender Muddy Waters Tele ash body with pickguard changed to white pearl and slotted neckplate screws on a plain neckplate.  The main change is the Mex neck has been swapped out with one of the best necks--Fender or Warmoth--imaginable.  This guitar sets up with absolutely incredible action - very low, no fret out, just perfect.  Without a doubt, within the top 1% of Fenders I've had in terms of playability, and the tone is killer as well.  Neck has been lacquered with a dark orange vintage tint - and an excellent logo installation, under the lacquer.  Overall look is much more vintage than the stock Muddy.  Stock pickups on this model are USA Vintage Series '52 Tele with cloth wires and they sound great - plus 50's style bridge with brass saddles (pic).  Knobs have also been changed to standard Tele knobs in place of the amp knobs but let me know and we'll put the amp knobs on prior to shipping.  If you're looking for a stock Muddy, this isn't for you, but if you're looking for the best playing Tele I've had in years this is it.  Overall flawless condition.  Cost is higher than I normally sell a Muddy Waters for - but it's worth every penny if playability are important.  $650(HOLD-Robert B RN) Includes hardshell case.  

2006 Fender '51 Nocaster Relic, (front/back), (headstock/fretboard "wear").  An exceptional Nocaster - and one of the lightest you'll find anywhere at just 6.6 lbs!  This one has just some very light relic'ing of the Honey-Blonde finish with just some small finish chips, and the normal wear pattern on the pickguard.  The body relic job is closer to a Closet Classic than a full-blown Relic.  More heavy vintage vibe is seen in fretboard "wear" and oxidized/rusted hardware, shown here.  As most of you know, an interesting history on the original "Nocaster".  Originally released as the Fender "Broadcaster", Fender was pressured by Gretsch to change the name due to an infringement on their "Broadkaster" line of drums.  In '51, before they changed the name to the "Telecaster", Fender simply used their old decals, although clipping "Broadcaster" from the logo - thus the nickname, "Nocaster".   Features include swamp ash body, U-shape maple neck, single-ply black pickguard and original spec pickups.  Collector approved and offered in "Relic Mint" condition with no fret wear nor non-factory flaws.  This one even includes the too-cool Thermometer case and all the "stuff", shown here - plus Fender molded case for road use to preserve the Thermometer case.  Sells for $3008 online and in stores ($3760 list) but this one, 6.6 pounds and an absolute monster player, is better than $800 cheaper at $2199(SOLD - Trevor).  

1967 Gretsch Rally (pic2) (pic3), Insanely clean with none of the normal GRETSCH gripes like cracked binding or poor neck set.  The binding on this beauty is perfect and the neck angle is correct.  This guitar needs nothing and is easily investment quality.  Frets are perfect - Brazilian rosewood fretboard.  Finish is flawless other than a small finish chip on headstock - only checking is on face of headstock.  Picture here of the few minor flaws which include the two minor issue on the headstock as well as customary crack on pickguard and pickup ring (other pickup ring is fine).  Also has a nearly invisible repaired crack on the 9V battery cover (pic here).  As you may know, a few of these were made with the "Sonic Boom" switch, which activates a 9V battery (notice 9V access panel on rear of body) and provides a hotter signal.  We have gone over the entire circuit and everything now works perfectly, including the Sonic Boom.  Includes original silver case and plenty of original hangtags and assorted paperwork.  This is one of the cleanest Gretsch's on the planet and in the coolest of Gretsch color combinations - Bamboo Yellow top with Copper back.  This absolutely stunning example - and a nice player I'll add - is only $1999.  This would be a $2800-$3250 guitar on gbase (link here), but this is one the cleanest 60's Gretsches I've seen - and with the optional Sonic Boom and paperwork - for just $1999(HOLD-Chris L 7/31    ).  

1985 Charvel Strat - San Dimas, (front), (back), (headstock).  This is a rare and exciting find.  Unlike a pre-CBS custom color Strat, or first year PRS, a lot of you won't get it, but among Charvel/Jackson collectors and players, this is up there.  Although not a Strat headstock, it's still a rare San Dimas production (#4987) with a cool factory graphic, and a NAMM show guitar just for good measure.  A number of old Charvel/Jacksons never make it to the site, like this '83 Strat head I sold early this year but I wanted to give every one a shot at this one rather than a small mailing list of collectors who usually get first dibs.  This one appears to be all original, in beautiful shape, only a few minor finish chips (shown here) down to the white base coat.   As shown on copy of build sheet (pic here), features include Strat body, aircraft camouflage graphics with "XG-3", "Warning" and some blood drips, with Jackson J-50N and J-50B pickups and a single volume control with 3-way selector, Kahler Pro tremolo, and, the coolest feature of all, the fantastic Charvel maple neck with black headstock and gold logo with oil finish - a neck than many feel is the most comfortable neck ever made.  The more you play them, the better they feel and you'll note in this pic, we haven't cleaned it, as most players consider this a sacrilege.  You'll also note some nice flame in the maple, which is just icing on the cake.  The original USA (San Dimas) Charvels are fairly rare, with less than 5500 made during their 8-year production and these were custom order guitars.  When I was working at Hotlicks, customers would walk into the store, fill out a spec sheet, we'd send it off, and then 6 months later their Charvel would show up.  I found an excellent site for these wonderful guitars, usacharvels.com, with loads of pictures and info.  They have reissued the San Dimas models, although I haven't seen any graphic finishes, and they sell for around the same price as the real thing.  Own this absolutely killer player, in a rare graphic, for just $1950(HOLD-Edward).  Includes a Fender-style case with black tolex, leather ends, and white stitching.  

1998 Fender American Standard Stratocaster - upgraded pickups, (front/back), (headstock), (pickguard assy.)  Beautiful American Standard, all stock except for an Acme Guitar Works (link) pre-wired pickguard assembly with Lindy Fralin pickups, CTS pots, and Orange Drop cap, on a tortoise guard with aged parts.  The guitar is in exceptionally clean condition with no scratches, fret wear, or fretboard/neck wear.  The pickguard was assembled 4 years ago and I don't know what they were charging back then but I'm sure it would have been over $300.  If you're a fan of the good old American Standard - except even better sounding - this guitar is for you.  With this upgrade, a sweet deal on a great guitar for $899(HOLD-WCG 8/5).  Don't like tortoise?  We can swap out to a stock American Standard white guitars for $20.  

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Guild GAD-30EASB with Baggs Element System, (front/back), (headstock), (preamp), finished in ice tea burst.  Simply spectacular playing flatop with one great upgrade - the Baggs Element preamp and saddle transducer.  Guild's GAD line offers a lot of guitar, quality guitar, for a very reasonable cost and, remarkably, all solid woods.  The few GAD's we've had were all top-notch in quality, tone, and playability and this one is the best of the lot.  Although these come from the factory with nice setups, this one had a professional fret level and dress, to get the action as nice as humanly possible and I'll admit, it is truly fine.  The GAD-30 has an orchestra body size with a solid spruce top, solid mahogany back and sides, rosewood fingerboard and bridge, bone nut and saddle, mahogany neck, pearl dot inlays, and very attractive flamed maple binding.  The Baggs Element includes side mounted preamp which features hidden click-lock battery compartment for easy battery changes; class A discrete FET input for warm, analog sound; volume, bass, treble and mid controls.  The Element's designed is characterized as a robust, lively and open sound with great dynamics and a delicate high end.  Output is via endpin jack.  Only one flaw on this guitar which is a very small finish impression behind the bridge, not through the lacquer (shown here).   Original cost was $850 plus $300 parts/labor for the upgrade.  In my opinion, it's one of the nicest guitars I've had for under $1K - just $699(SOLD-local) for this one.  Includes Guild Olive tweed case (pic). 

THD Hot Plate 4 Ohms Attenuator, for 4 Ohm load and works best for amps rated at 4 ohms or are selectable down to 4.  Offers Bright and Deep switches for tailoring your sound - Bright switch gives you two different high frequency levels to compensate for an overly bright, or dull speaker cabinet while the Deep switch offers two distinct bass settings to help you fill out the bottom end, or reduce the bass in a cabinet with too much low end.  Has built in noise reduction up to 10dB, line out, and a fan to keep it cool.  Clean shape, works flawlessly, and with new ones going for $299, a sweet deal for $209.  For full specs click here for THD's site.  

Deering Boston Resonator Banjo, (close-up), (headstock), (front/back), (case).  On the heels of my Deering Black Diamond which recently sold, another fine Deering.   Even though the Boston is a fairly inexpensive banjo by Deering standards, the tone and playability are definitely first rate and are so far above any import that comparison isn't possible.  Spec's include mahogany neck & white-bound resonator, heavy steel rim which also functions as tone ring, 24-piece flange, ebony fretboard with pearl dot inlays, Gotoh guitar-style tuners with geared 5th string peg.  The Boston's drum assembly is a 3/16" thick steel rim, but it rings like a tone-ring.  Combined with the 24-piece flange, this steel rim design gives a remarkably loud and clear tone.  Also, it can be easily converted to an open back by removing the flange pieces and resonator.  Deering cases are the best I've ever seen and this case weighs around twice as much as the banjo itself.  List price on new is $1799 and sells discounted to $1349.  If you've become frustrated with your playing ability - or lame tone - here's a fairly inexpensive way to upgrade both.  Just $950 for this nice Deering.  Offered in clean shape and pro set-up to perfection.  For details Click here for Deering's site and then upper-left drop-down click "Banjo Info-Guides" and then in left margin click "Boston."  

T.C. Electronics G-Major Guitar Effects Processor, (back), (large LCD Display), (stock pic).  T.C. Electronics builds some of the finest guitar effects in the world.  Their tone is legendary, some of the best engineered guitar gear ever made.  The G-Major was engineered in the TC tradition, with superb tone as the central theme.  There have been, literally, 100's of guitar multi-effect devices manufactured since they first came on the scene in the 80's but there have been few with true quality tone.  What good is a unit that has 100 effects, 25 simultaneously, if it sounds like crap and you can't hear the guitar?  The G-Major is an effect that sounds great, and your guitar tone doesn't get lost in the mix.  This isn't to say that this isn't a powerful unit; it is.  It doesn't try to do it all - it's an effects unit only, not a preamp, you can run a simple setup with just your amp's preamp and you'll have all you'll need.  There are too many features to list here but as a brief into - you can route your effects series, semi-parallel, or parallel.  You can even "lock" the unit so all patches will follow the same routing.   Effect include noise gate, compressor, chorus, flange, resonance filter, vibrato, tremolo, panner, phaser, reverb, de-tune, pitch shifter, delay, ping pong, dynamic delay, dual delay, *channel switching*, modifiers, and chromatic tuner.  There are 100 preset patches and 100 more user-defined.  This unit is in "as new" condition and works perfectly except for one factory glitch which is fairly common.  The chorus light flickers when engaged.   TC is aware of this issue and although it doesn't affect performance, it is covered under warranty and they will fix it for free.  For all the features and full description, click here for TC's Site.   Sells new for $399 everywhere but this one's mint in s original box for $279.  (Note:  I also have the T.C. Electronics G-Minor, companion to the G-Major, triple footswitch that’s fully programmable, as new in the box for $75 with purchase of the G-Major). 

Aguilar DB900 Tube Direct Box, (pic2).  Definitely top drawer gear here.  You can get a direct box for $45 but when tone quality is critical, it pays to get the best.  The DB900 uses an all-tube circuit design (12AX7) in a linear fashion to keep the noise floor extremely low while creating tremendous headroom and it does it all without coloring your sound in the slightest.  Equally at home on stage or in the studio.  Recently discontinued but with a list price of $629, these sold new for $499.  This one's in nice shape, works perfectly, and a true pro quality D.I. for just $359(HOLD-Kenny 8/8).  Click here for Aguilar's site info.  

BBE 462 Sonic Maximizer, (back).  This is the kind of unit that, as soon as you hear it you'll wonder how you ever did without it.  Useful for both live and studio use, it makes instruments jump out of the mix and makes the whole mix sound much more crisp and defined, with a very spacious feel.  I used to use an Aphex Aural Exciter which was the same idea, but with different technology.  This thing buries the Apex unit.  Simply to use, with controls for each channel - Low contour which fattens up the mix and "BBE Process" for the amount of processing you want the unit to do.  In the back you'll find both 1/4" and RCA inputs/outputs which DJ's will find useful.  The one switch that I don't understand is a bypass switch on the front because once you hear it, you'll never want to turn it off.  For downloadable manual, click here for BBE's site and for 38 in-depth reveiws where it scored an overall 9.7 rating, click here for Harmony-Central.  This model has been discontinued but at $99(HOLD-Jose), it's 1/2 of new cost and, of course, it works perfectly.  

1988 Martin J-40MC (JC-40) with Pickup, (front/back), (headstock), (side/fretboard), (cosmetic appointments).  If you're a Martin fan and want something even more powerful than a dreadnought, welcome to the J-40.  One of Martin's fine "Jumbo" series, first introduced in '85, with the cutaway version starting in '87 and ran for around 10 years.  This model is better known as the JC-40 which was used on the majority of its production.  The nomenclature used during the first 3 years, "J-40MC" was confusing to Martin customers who were used to having the size, followed by cosmetic designation, i.e. D-45, HD-28, OOO-18, etc..  J-40MC and JC-40 are the exact same guitar; just a different model name.  The J-40 series features a Grand Auditorium body size ("M") but with the depth of Martin's Dreadnought ("D").  Chris Martin wanted this model to be his legacy while at the helm of Martin.  While it wasn't an overwhelming success, at around 300 pieces a year it was fairly successful but by comparison, this was around 1/4th the production of the D-28 during this period.  As the "40" would imply, this guitar is nicely appointed, with 45-style (although smaller) abalone inlays, 7-ply top purfling, 5-ply back purfling, 3-ply neck binding, Ebony fretboard, abalone dot strap pins, and 28-style back stripe.  Other features include:  rounded cutaway, jumbo body with 16" lower bout, solid spruce top with oval soundhole, rosewood back and sides, 14-fret mahogany neck, ebony bridge, low profile neck, rosewood peghead overlay, black pickguard, 25.4" scale, 1-11/16" nut width, 3-7/8" to 4-7/8" body depth, and gold tuners.  This guitar is all original except for one reversible mod - an under saddle EMG active pickup.  No modification was required for the preamp other than two small holes and a small hole under saddle for cable connection; preamp is wired to the endpin output jack; all are shown in this pic including serial/model which is under the battery holder/preamp.   20 years old but very well maintained and light wear around the soundhole is the worst flaw.  Overall beautiful shape for its age.  Includes original wood/tolex case with blue lining.  A wonderful sounding, excellent playing Martin and should appeal to players and collectors alike.  $1799.  

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Gretsch 6120DC Nashville Double Cutaway, (pic2) - flawless condition and this is THE most desirable DC and longer being produced with the TV Jones pickups and USA pots and switches.  This is it, the granddaddy of the Nashville's in all its glory and Beatles fans revere this model as the one John favored during the recording of "Revolver".  Based on the 1962 version of the 6120, The Nashville double cutaway just oozes glitzy Gretsch vibe, from the classic orange stain finish with flamed maple all around, to the mass of knobs and switches, the Gretsch Bigsby, the flip-up muffler system, and classic Gretsch oddities such as simulate f-holes and snap-on back pad.  The heart of this bad boy is a pair of TV Jones Filter 'Tron pickups which had been a common--but expensive--mod for Gretsch's, but are no standard on many higher end models.  Other features include Maple body with multiple bindings, bound fingerboard and headstock, Ebony fingerboard, headstock overlay with horseshoe inlay, Neo Classic "Thumbnail inlays, 22 frets plus "Zero" fret, gold-plated hardware, vintage open-back Grover tuners, set-in neck constructed of 3-piece maple/walnut/maple, 1.69" nut width, 24 3/5" scale, 15.77" lower bout, 2" Deep.  Controls include Volume 1 (Neck Pickup), Volume 2 (Bridge Pickup), Master Volume, 3-Position Toggle Master Tone Switch and Standby Switch.  Other than the Golden Anniversary model, this is the top of the line in the Nashville series, with a list price of $3650 but, again, the current model Chet Atkins Nashville no longer has the TV Jones' and CTS/Switchcraft electronics.  These sold at discount for $3120  and if you missed this model during its short run, here's another chance to get a really nice one.  $2139(HOLD-Rob C 7/21).   Includes Gretsch case, certificate, and assorted paperwork.  

1998 Ibanez EDB605 5-String Ergodyne Bass, (pic2), (front/back), (headstock).  Gray Pewter finish.  The Ergodyne series has long been one of the best selling basses on my site.  They set up extremely well and, as the name would imply, they are designed with ergonomics in mind.  One of the most comfortable basses to strap on and play.  Has a very deep belly cut and all the body contours are designed for comfort and easy access to the fretboard.  Features include slender 2-octave EDB5 maple neck offers fast and easy fretwork, strong passive pickups (DXH5N and DXH5B) and active EQB-III tone circuitry with active 3-band circuit to dial in the perfect tone and Ibanez' own Luthite body.  For the money, you're not going to beat this bass.  Forget about a P or a J, unless you like one tone - this one does a lot more.  This model was fairly expensive in '98, selling new for $599.  This one's in excellent condition, except for one crack in the finish, and a pro quality bass for just $379, set up to perfection and ready to rumble.  For some good reviews, click here for Harmony-Central.  

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1995 Gibson Les Paul TV Special, (front/back), (headstock/binding).  With its roots in the original 50's Les Paul Special, this mid-90's model actually has more in common with the ca. '77 LP-55 (as shown here) than the original 50's single cut Special due to the Tuneomatic bridge on this model but for the player that's a good thing if you want perfect intonation.   One other departure from the originals, this model features P100 (stacked P90) soapbar pickups, which retain the tone of the P90, without the extreme hum associated with the P90s.  This model is far superior guitar to more recent attempts such as the Faded series, Junior Specials, and the Specials with the mini-trapezoid inlays; this guitar has the proper neck heel and tenon, bound neck, and the color and gloss lacquer finish are dead on.  Specs include Mahogany body and mahogany neck, both with translucent TV finish, Grover tuners, inlaid Gibson logo with screen "Les Paul Special" logo, no volute, bound neck, stopbar tailpiece with Tuneomatic bridge, black bonnet knobs with metal pointers, and 3-ply pickguard.  Exceptionally clean condition, 9.5+, and an excellent player. The 90's were a very good era for Gibson and I think compared to this decade, the 90's were a golden era.  This fine golden era TV Special is a fine guitar for $1099(HOLD-George M local).  Includes original Gibson brown case.  

1997 Fender American Deluxe Jazz Bass, (front/back), (headstock).  Immaculate..."under-the-bed" condition...and in rare Crimson Red Transparent with maple board.  Since the late 80's Fender has had "Deluxe" models for their Strat's, Tele's, P's, and J's, with different upscale features over the years.  In '97 this meant special design Jazz pickups with 3-band active EQ (3rd knob is stacked pot), slightly smaller body with combination top load/string-thru-body, smaller pearloid pickguard, select Alder body, and lightweight deluxe Fender tuners.   The Crimson Red finish is very unique and basically a newer version of the early 90's Red Frost: a plain red transparent finish over most of the body, but with a darker red opaque finish on the edges with bits of metal flake (sample here).  This fine bass plays wonderfully and, even at 11 years old, is clean enough to be a new floor model.  Includes original Deluxe case and accessories (pic here) for $SOLD.  

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1977 Ibanez Mod. 2457 ES-355 Copy, (front/back), (headstock), (label), (Lyre Vibrola).  This is a wonderful archtop and an obvious Gibson copy of a Gibson, primarily the ES-355, with the only difference being that the 2457 has a rosewood fretboard as on a 345, rather than the 355's ebony.   As with Gibson's 355, this guitar has all the high end features including gold hardware, multi-ply body and headstock binding, bound neck, pearl block inlays, Varitone, Maestro style vibrola with Lyre engraving, ABR-style bridge, witch-hat knobs, 4-ply pickguard, maple top/back/sides,  and 3-piece maple neck.  The quality of these 70's Ibanez is so high that, ironically, they're generally better guitars than the guitars they were copying.  I can attest to the fact that this 2457 is as good as any 70's Gibson thinline I've ever had, in construction quality, playability, and tone.  Other features include a bone nut and the highly regarded  Super 70 pickups.  This guitar has been played but is in very nice shape for 31 years.  Worst flaws are a small burn mark on the top edge and an extra hold by the strap pin (both pictured here).  The set-up on this guitar is impeccable; hard to imagine a guitar with lower actio