Yamaha SL550 Studio Lord LP, made in Japan 1977, gloss black. Yamaha's Studio Lord models are exceptionally well made LP copies, made in the legendary Matsumoku factory between 1976 and 1980. This one is a rare model in the style of the high-end LP Custom. You get a chambered body with a maple top, double-bound in pinstriped cream. It looks amazing! The gloss black finish has just enough miles on the clock to exude vintage mojo while still being fairly clean. The frets have just been fully replaced by our regular master luthier Paul Minuer, so they're literally brand new; a massive bonus on a 40 year old guitar. The tone is enormous: thick, rich, bright, full, singing highs, creamy mids... it's an absolute delight. This will challenge guitars worth ten times as much, all with a cheeky smile and a whole lot of magic. These are already appreciating in value, so grab one before everyone knows!

Model: Yamaha Studio Lord SL550
Year: 1977 (serial 001534, 1977 best estimate by serial and catalog)
Made: Japan, Matsumoku factory
Finish: gloss black, double bound in cream
Body: chambered mahogany, plain maple top
Neck: maple, 3-piece
Mods: knobs replaced
Neck pickup: original Yamaha covered PAF-style humbuckers
Case: good quality gig-bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. There's a couple of dings on the end of the headstock and a scratch on the neck-joint area (definitely not a crack in the wood). There's minor some buckle-rash on the back. The top is pretty clean, although it appears to have the beginning of some checking lines. The chrome has minor discolouration. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. Frets are brand new as noted, 10/10. Outrageously good guitar!