Brian BLS-500G, gold top, made in Korea circa 1998. The first time I came across a Brian brand guitar, I had a laugh and bought it for a joke. The joke was on me: they're actually really good....hahaha dang. The MIJ enthusiasts among us will be familiar with Bacchus, they're one of Japan's great success stories and enjoy a reputation for picky wood selection and excellent workmanship. Brian was one of Bacchus' first experiments with replicating their famed meticulosity offshore; they were made in Korea in the late 1990s. They were midrange instruments in their day, fetching similar cash to a reissue model Fender Japan or a Japanese made Ibanez RG. The feel is great: the neck is slim and quick with a gorgeous rosewood board, the hardware is sturdy and the two-piece body resonates generously. The bridge pickup offers a creamy, responsive growl with an assured low end and plenty of detail. The neck pickup has been replaced with a Jun-Tone F/G single coil, which is an HB-sized low noise alnico-5 single coil wound by hand you can score in Japan for a decent wad of JPY. It delivers an unusual clarity: there's heaps of breath and expression in the dynamics, sweetness and chime in the top end balanced by a weighty low end. It almost sounds like a Strat in neck position, but with added sustain and complexity through the midrange. The gold is rich in hue and pops nicely against the pearl guard and inlays. Go on, go full Brian.

Model: Brian by Bacchus BLS-500G
Made: Korea, 1998 approx (no serial)
Finish: gold top, cream binding, natural gloss back and sides
Neck: mahogany, 1-piece with heel cap, rosewood board, 12" radius, 24.75" scale, slim 60s profile
Body: mahogany, two piece centre join, maple cap
Weight: 4.325kg
Mods: pickguard replaced, neck pickup replaced
Pickups: Jun-Tone F/G Single Coil Type 2 (neck) Brian Original Humbucker (bridge)
Case: basic non-original gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has a couple of small chips on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has a couple of small chips on the edge in the elbow area as well as widespread light scratches and dimples, no major marks. The sides have minor dimples around the whole body and a couple of small chips near the jack. The front has some dimples in the elbow area and some play wear on the guard and horns. Overall: very good condition (8/10).

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. The frets have minor wear only, 9/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/52 Moonshiners strings.