Washburn J-9 Washington, black, made in Korea 1998. Washburn have a history stretching back to 1883, and although their methods and manufacturing bases have moved a few times, they still do great stuff today. This one was made in Korea around the same time Samick were making all those great guitars for Epiphone and the like. It's nicely put together and feels integrous in the hands, with heaps of natural resonance and very tidy workmanship around the binding, inlays and frets. I wasn't sure what to expect when I plugged this in, but heck... the thing sounds great. It's dark and warm enough on the neck pickup to cover jazz territory, but it's happiest playing blues or rock stuff. The tone is responsive, expansive and balanced, with a lovely detailed midrange and heaps of body and presence. There's a lot to enjoy here, it's certainly a quiet acheiver.

Model: Washburn J-9 Washington
Made: Korea, 1998, Samick plant (serial S98056756)
Finish: black, gloss poly
Body: laminate maple, fully hollow, 432mm across, 45mm deep
Neck: mahogany, rosewood fretboard, slim C shape, 25.5" scale, 12" radius
Weight: 3.880kg
Mods: pickup switch replaced
Pickups: Washburn 621/622 humbucker x2
Case: Washburn hard case, excellent quality and condition

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some minor dimples on the back and edges and some scuffs on the end. The neck has some minor scuffs on the back only. The back has widespread very light scuffs and surface scratches, no major marks. The sides have some minor scuffs in the elbow areal jack and bottom horn. The front has some scuffs and dimples near the knobs and tailpiece, some dimples in the elbow area and some play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: very good condition (8/10)

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, intonation is good, action is low, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. The frets have some minor wear, 8/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 11/49 Moonshiners strings.