Yamaha SL450S Studio Lord, made in Japan 1983, black. This is a lovely LP... no surprise, being a vintage Yamaha and all. The Studio Lord was Yamaha's Les Paul style offerings, made from 1976-83. This one was made in 1983, the last year before they switched over to the Lord Player line instead. As such, you get the 'open book' style headstock and a one piece neck, both cool little touches. This looks classy all dressed up in cream and gloss black... it's a nice change from the standard sunburst fare. The neck is a fairly slim rounded shape, it makes for easy movement and comfy chords without being too shredtastic. The best thing about this is the sound. The neck pickup is bell-like and rich, with a thick attack and sparkling clarity. The bridge is creamy and full with excellent note separation and dynamics while maintaining a convincing warmth. It sounds magical, clean or dirty. The title for Lord of the Dance is taken, but how about Lord(ess) of the Studio?

Model: Yamaha Studio Lord SL450S
Made: Japan, 1983 approx (serial 301078)
Finish:black
Body: agathis/asian mahogany
Neck: maple, 1-piece, rosewood board, 12" radius, 24.75" scale, slim 60s shape
Weight: 4.260kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Yamaha humbucker x2
Case: basic non-original gig bag

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some minor chips and dimples on the end of the headstock. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor dimples on the back only. The back has some dimples along the back edge and widespread light scuffs around the whole body, nothing nasty. The sides have some dimples on the top horn, some scuffs in the elbow area and a chip and some scuffs near the jack. The front has no major marks, but there's widespread light scuffs and surface scratches around the whole body. The hardware has some clouding and pitting, but everything works well. Overall: very good condition (7.5/10)

Playing condition notes: action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. The frets have some normal wear but appear to be recently levelled and dressed, 7/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/52 Moonshiners strings.