Duesenberg Starplayer TV, silver sparkle, made in Germany in 2000. On the wall of the shop, this is the most eye catching guitar; that's pretty easy to say. This is a very early example of the model; it's got the first version of the Duesenberg tremolo and tuners but is otherwise pretty similar in spec to a new model. The finish is terrific: the silver sparkle has yellowed beautifully to a champagne-esque light gold sparkle; it's seriously splendid. Despite coming up on 20 years old it's in pretty tidy shape, save for a strange round mark on the underside guard. This has the signature hi-fidelity 'ping' Duesenberg stuff is known for; there's a whole heap of clarity and dynamic attack on offer, all with a tasty round sweetness and a rich singing midrange. As such, it plays very well with effects: both spacious ambient textures and thick layered distortions and fuzzes come out clearly with heaps of flavour. These earlier examples are apparently 'more' made in Germany than recent models; the precision and quality of the finish and build are exceptional and you feel all that love and care instantly when this is in the hands. These seldom come around on the used market, so if you've got the itch but are disinclined to drop the serious cash required for a new one, here'a superb little champagne shower for your ears.  

Model: Duesenberg Starplayer TV
Made: Germany, 28 Jun 2000 (serial 000508)
Finish: silver sparkle top, trans-black burst back and sides
Body: laminate spruce top, laminate flame maple back and sides, semi-hollow centre block style
Neck: USA rock maple, Indian rosewood board
Weight: 3.640kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Duesenberg GrandVintage humbucker and Domino P90
Case: original Duesenberg hard case (presumably!); excellent quality and condition

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock has a very minor dimples on the end, no major marks. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, no major marks. Back is pretty clean, just some very minor dimples around the outside edge. The sides have no major marks, just some dimples on the shoulder and light scuffs near the jack and on the bottom horn. The front is nice and clean, although seeing marks on the sparkle finish is very hard; just some dimples below the tailpiece and on the top horn, plus a slightly odd circular scratch on the back of the clear guard near the switch. Overall: very good condition (8.5/10).

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. Frets have minimal wear, 8/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 11/49s and playing silky smooth.