Yamaha SGV500S Flying Samurai Charcoal Metallic 2001
Yamaha SGV500S, metallic charcoal, made in Taiwan 2001. The Flying Samurai guitars were some of Yamaha's first ever electric instruments, making their debut in 1966. The wildly original shape disappeared for a few decades , but was briefly reincarnated in 2001 as the SGV series. This model has the two high output single coils, which sound similar to a P-90 but with a little more brightness and attack, and a sensible hardtail bridge. It's a great combo, the thing sounds fantastic: like a fat Jazzmaster but with excellent tuning stability and less complications to go wrong. The neck is a comfy slim C shape, and at 3.3kg, this is nice and light but still balances brilliantly. We've not had an SGV through in this finish before, and it looks awesome: classy metallic grey, slightly yellowed to sport a pyrite style tinge. I really like this guitar, it's the perfect balance of kooky style and super practical playability.
Model: Yamaha SGV500S Flying Samurai
Made: Taiwan, 2001
Serial: HM18149
Finish: charcoal metallic, gloss poly
Body: alder
Neck: maple, rosewood fretboard, 24.75" scale, 12" radius, slim C shape
Weight: 3.330kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Yamaha high output single coil x2
Accessories: none
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has 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 minor scuffs on the horns, middle of the body and elbow area and there's some dimples on the back and bottom edges. The sides have minor scuffs on the top horn and elbow area and some dimples near the jack. The front has scuffs around the bridge and elbow area and play wear on the guard and horns.
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. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners strings.
Fret life: 8/10, minor wear only