Yamaha Studio Lord SL700S, made in Japan around 1980, red sunburst. The Studio Lord was Yamaha's take on the Les Paul, made between 1976 and 1981 in the famed Matsumoku plant, and they're a bit of a favourite around here. These are some of the best vintage Japanese LPs going around; they're unsung legends, and as word slowly gets out they're gaining a cult following. This is a higher end model in the SL line, so you get the deluxe splittable humbuckers with cool little push/pull tone knobs, but the real magic is in the wood. The lower end SL models are made of agathis in a sandwich style build, but this features some absolutely top-tier mahogany; the back is quite a sight to behold and features a slight burst to the finish. The maple top is also tightly grained and very pretty, this is a very pretty item. Being such high-grade wood, this really has a tonne of richness, warmth and creaminess to the tone; it's an absolute pleasure to hear. The three-piece maple neck is slim and sturdy, it feels great in the hands an is a breeze to move around on. This is in pretty remarkable shape for nearly forty years old; it's aged incredibly well. If you're after a superb LP with a whole lot of majesty, look no further.

Manufacturer: Yamaha
Model: Studio Lord SL700S
Made: Japan, Matsumoku factory 1980 (serial 001531, best estimate by serial and catalog)
Finish: red sunburst over plain maple
Body: high grade mahogany, plain maple top
Neck: maple, 3-piece
Mods: none
Neck pickup: original uncovered PAF-style humbuckers, splittable
Case: awesome vintage faux leather gig bag, great quality and condition

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. There's only two 'noteworthy' marks; one little chip on the headstock along from the low-E peg, and one very little chip on the edge just down from the bridge pickup volume knob. Aside from that, just some very light play scratches, some very light buckle rash and the occasional dimple. Overall: very good condition (8.5/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. Frets look good, plenty of height in them and fairly even, 7/10 for life left. Wearing fresh 11/49s.