Sterling AX40, made in Indo 2013 approx, trans gold finish. This shape has some history with Eddie Van Halen, although this model isn't officially associated with him; his first signature model was a Peavey in a very similar design to this, before switching onto Musicman and then later his own EVH brand in due course. As such, it's got some 80s-Superstrat shreddable features: solid basswood body for even tonal response, floating tremolo, two humbuckers and a flat 12" radius fingerboard stretching the full 25.5" scale. All that adds up nicely in the hands; it's very easy to play. Some Musicman guitars have comically skinny necks, but this is a much more sensible shape fairly similar in profile to a '62 style Strat. The tone is nicely malleable, there's a sweet fullness to it with a thick midrange and a tight bass that plays nicely with both cleans and ultra-high-gain distortion; it's very flexible. This looks and feels compact to play; it's easy to move around on and comfy in the hands, ut you still get the sparkle and attack from the full scale length. The finish is perfectly gaudy; if all your mates have pointy black guitars, dare to be different and play a guitar that shares a hue with Big Bird.... that's rock and roll! There's some nice maple on show too. Tidy, tight, tasty.

Model: Sterling by Musicman AX40
Made: Indonesia, circa 2013 (serial SG17814)
Finish: translucent gold over quilt maple top, gloss black back and sides
Body: solid basswood
Neck: maple, maple board, lightly worn satin finish
Weight: 3.8kg approx
Mods: none
Pickups: original Sterling A5 Zebra humbuckers
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. There's a minor mark on the end of the headstock. Neck is pretty clean, just some mild glossing from play. The back has one noticeable scratch just above the cavity cover, aside from that it's just some very light scratches around the body. There's some very minor scuffs near the input jack on the side. The front is very clean, just some light play scratches and the occasional dimple. Overall: excellent condition (9/10).

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, intonation is good, action is low, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have minor wear only, 8/10 for life left. Setup with fresh 11/49s.