Yamaha SA1000 in persimmon red, made in Japan 1979. These were Yamaha's take on the iconic Gibson ES-335. The SA series like this are some of Yamaha's longest running and most revered models; sit still for five minutes around here and you'll cop an earful about their many virtues. The SA1000 model enjoyed such blessings as an ebony board and a slightly different model of pickups. This contributes a certain smoothness under the fingers and some extra brightness and 'snap' to the tone. The tone... oh gosh, what magic awaits. There's a complex richness to the midrange that's balanced by a sweet crisp treble and a thick, warm bass, all delivered with amazing sustain and defined attack. The transparent red finish shows off some amazing maple; the top and back both feature stunning and unusual patterns that'll draw you in a little too easily. The quality of build and materials on show here is truly remarkable; it's amazing to me that these don't fetch double or triple the kind of prices we currently enjoy. So yes, it's very, very good indeed.

Model: Yamaha SA1000 'Super Axe'
Made: Japan, 1979 (best estimate, serial 004064)
Finish: persimmon red (PR)
Body: maple with centre block
Neck: one piece mahogany, rosewood board, 12" radius, 24.75" scale
Weight: 4.005kg
Mods: strap pins changed
Pickup: original PAF-style covered humbuckers
Case: basic non original gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock has some minor dimple son the end. Neck is pretty clean, light marks only, mostly higher up the neck on the back. The back has some some light buckle rash marks, mostly in the middle and on the lower edge; nothing nasty. The sides have a handful of minor marks on the bottom horn, near the knobs, near the rear strap pin and on the shoulder area. The front is pretty clean, just a couple of dimples near the knobs and some play scratches on the guard and both 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. Frets have minor wear, they're in pretty good shape, 7/10 for life left. Setup with fresh 11/49s.