(SOLD) Yamaha SJ800 Super Jam Natural 1979
Yamaha SJ800 Super Jam, natural gloss, made in Japan 1978-9. The Super Jam was a Yamaha original shape debuting in 1979 and disappearing in 1984; it roughly referenced the Fender Telecaster but with plenty of fun Yamaha eccentricities thrown in for good measure. You get an alder body and a bolt on maple neck, both Tele-ish, but with a Strat-style belly curve and a wonky upper horn. It's a comfy platyer: the neck is moderate, neither fat nor slim and very well played in; the body sits nicely in the hands and is well weighted and resonant. The high mass bridge transfers a heap of vibration to the body. This really does sound awesome plugged in: the neck pickup delivers a heap of grind and juicy low end, the bridge pickup has that traditional twang but with a nice breathiness to it... but the magic is in the middle position with both pickups jamming. The natural finish has aged gloriously: check out that gorgeous golden alder, my oh my... and the maple neck and headstock too; it's a beauty in a super weird and interesting way. There's a lot to love here: those vintage Yam fanatics (guilty!) are definitely onto something. What fun!
Model: Yamaha SJ800 Super Jam
Made: Japan, 1978-9, (serial 001392)
Finish: gloss natural, 2-ply black guard
Body: alder
Neck: maple, one piece w. skunk stripe, 25.5" scale, 13.75" radius
Weight: 3.920kg
Mods: knobs replaced
Pickups: Yamaha G111 humbucker (neck), J1 single coil (bridge)
Case: basic non original gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. Headstock has a few dimples and marks on the end and back, plus the decal is a little damaged. The neck has minor dimples on the back, no major marks; it's clean and smooth in the hands. The back has widespread but very minor dimples and light surface scratches; no major marks. The sides are pretty clean, just minor dimples on both horns and near the jack. The front has some light dimples around the back edge and play wear on the guard and top horn. Note the guard has been lightly etched with a 'tree of life' type motif. 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. The frets are pretty good despite some wear, 7/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 11/49 Moonshiners strings.