Yamaha SG-700, red sunburst, made in Japan 1979. The Yamaha 'Solid Guitar' series launched in the early 70s, taking a few different forms over the decades but surviving to this day. These late 70s offerings are probably the most iconic examples of the series; it was around the time Carlos Santana picked one up and really put them on the map. It's a hell of a guitar, that's for sure.  The tone shares a bit of DNA with the Les Paul, but it's a different animal. It's brighter and more articulate than a typical LP, with a snarkier top end and a more vibrant high-midrange. The neck pickup is bell-like in clarity with a strong fundamental note, while the bridge is hairy and wide with heaps of punch. The push/push tone pots split the coils to a single coil sound, which works surprisingly well and delivers a crispy zingy snap. The neck is a moderate, rounded shape not too far from a Gibson 'Slim 60s' shape. These were made entirely by hand, and the quality of workmanship and materials is really top notch. It has a certain integrity in the hands which translates to a convincing natural resonance and a certain friendliness to the player, it feels great. The finish lacks not for vibrancy: the maple cap has some subtle birdseye grain on show and the colours really pop even after all these years. It's been a while since we had one of these, it's so nice to play one again!

Model: Yamaha SG-700
Made: Japan, 1979 (serial 003631)
Finish: red sunburst, gloss poly
Body: agathis/Asian mahogany body, maple cap
Neck: agathis, rosewood slab board, 24.75" scale, 12" radius
Weight: 4.355kg
Mods: neck pickup replaced (but with original model), pickguard removed
Pickups: Yamaha G-II humbucker x2, splittable via push/push tone pots
Case: basic vintage hard case

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some dimples on the end and some light scuffs on the back around some of the tuners. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has some extra screw holes from previous strap button placement near the neck joint and the top horn, as well as some dents in the elbow area and widespread light scuffs and dimples around the whole body, nothing too nasty. The sides have minor dimples and scuffs around the whole body, as well as an extra screw hole near the rear strap pin. The front has some minor dimples around the tailpiece, back edge and elbow area, as well as some standard play wear on the guard and horns. The guard is removed and missing. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. The frets are pretty even with normal wear, 7/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/52 Moonshiners strings.