Yamaha Studio Lord SL500 in brown sunburst, made in Japan in 1976. The Studio Lord was Yamaha's late 70s LP copy, and the build quality and tone of them is astounding. This is the earliest example of these we've seen, and it's got a different finish than the later models. This one has a super thin, almost-satin-semi-gloss finish; it looks and feels awesome. The finish has a bit of wear (including a brush with some bubble wrap, see below) but for 41 years old, it's in great nick and is looking tasty. The slim 2-piece maple neck is super cooperative, and with the slick finish, it's very easy to move around. This is meticulous vintage Japanese craftsmanship in LP form.

Model: Yamaha Studio Lord SL500
Made: Japan, 1976 (serial 1483)
Finish: brown sunburst over plain maple
Body: solid agathis (Mahogany family, not too heavy)
Neck: maple, 2 pieces, rosewood board, slim profile
Mods: speed knobs replaced, pickguard prop removed so it sits closer to body
Pickups: Yamaha covered humbuckers
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: Moderate finish wear. There's some buckle rash on the back, as well as some scuffing. There's some dings and chips around the bottom, near the strap pin, around past the input jack and near the pickguard. There's some subtle marks on the body from a previous outing in bubble wrap; this mat well be a nitro finish (not verified) not poly like the later models; you can only see them up close from certain angles. The pick guard has had the metal prop removed and is screwed closer to the body, it sits a little flatter than usual and has a bit of wear. The chrome parts have some pitting and aging, but all work fine. Overall: good condition (7/10).

Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. Frets have some wear, but they're pretty even and pretty shiny with heaps of life left, 8/10. Setup with fresh 11/50s and playing like an LP should!