Yamaha Studio Lord SL500, red sunburst. The Studio Lords were made from 1976-1980 approx; they're some of the best quality and value Gibson-style guitars going around. This one dates to 1979, although it's in pretty shiny condition and could easily be four years old rather than four decades. The attention to detail and quality of finish is impeccable; in the hands you can feel the love that's gone into building it. Tone-wise, it's smoking hot: thick, juicy lows and mids with a bright, articulate treble... each switch position offers new delights. The classic cherry burst finish shows off some understated but tasty maple, and the neck features some really nice birds-eye grain. The vintage hard case is a handy bonus. Now, don't tell the internet how good these are, okay?

Model: Yamaha Studio Lord SL500
Made: Japan, 1979 (serial 004060)
Finish: red sunburst over plain maple
Body: agathis/asian mahogany, sandwich style
Neck: maple, 3-piece
Weight: 4.250kg
Mods: bridge and tailpiece replaced, bridge pickup cover removed
Pickups: Yamaha humbuckers; bridge position has had cover removed but appears to be original
Case: basic vintage LP hard case, non-original but period correct

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some chips on the end and some light marks on the edges. The neck is clean and smooth, very minor dimples only. The back has some light but widespread minor buckle rash marks, nothing nasty. The sides have a few marks: dimples on the top horn, scuffs and dimples on the shoulder, a few minor nicks near the rear strap pin, some minor chips and scratches around from the knobs, and a dent and some scuffs on the bottom horn. The front is pretty clean, just some very light dimples near the knobs and on the shoulder and some play wear on the guard and top horn. Overall: good condition (7/10)

Playing condition notes: action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have some normal wear, they're not in need of immediate attention, 6/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 10/46s.