Yamaha SGV500S, burgundy, made in Taiwan 2001. The Flying Samurai series launched in 1967 as some of Yamaha's first ever solid body electric guitars. It's gotta be one of the coolest body shapes ever, but it was shortlived; the line was discontinued in 1972. The series was briefly re-booted in 2000 for a year or two, updated with modern hardware and electronics. We've had a bunch of SGV300 examples through the shop, but this SGV500S model with the two wide-format pickups and a Tune-O-Matic and stoptail bridge setup are a bit harder to find. The pickups are great: they're closer to a JM-style pancake wind than a P90, so the output is on the medium-low side, but they're super clear and snappy with heaps of breath through the mids. It sounds a fair bit like a Jazzmaster, but with the added assertive clarity in the attack that comes from the hardtail bridge. It's lightweight and comfy to hold, with a slim quick neck and reliable hardware, so it's remarkably practical for a decidedly oddball character. The finish: heck, I love it. It's a rich merlot sparkle that catches the light beautifully. I really enjoy this one, plus it's going to look outstanding on stage.

Model: Yamaha SGV5005S
Made: Taiwan, 2001 (serial HM07080)
Finish: metallic burgundy, gloss poly
Body: alder
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 24.75" scale, 10" radius, 42mm nut, slim C shape
Mods: none
Weight: 3.335kg
Pickups: Yamaha Original alnico V single coil x2
Case: basic gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some dimples on the end and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples and  rub wear on the back only. The back has widespread scuffs around the whole body, as well as some dimples near the neck plate, in the elbow area and along the back edge. The sides have some dimples in the elbow area and near the jack. The front has some dimples behind the bridge, along the back edge and up from the bridge pickup, as well as widespread scuffs around most of the body and some play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: very good condition (7.5/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. The frets have minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.