Maton Guitars

Until the late 1930’s the Australian guitar manufacturing industry was virtually non existent and good quality guitars were hard to find. The best guitars, it was well understood, came from the U.S.A. Bill May, a Melbourne born jazz musician, woodwork teacher, and luthier, decided to change all that… Maton are Australia’s leading manufacturer of Acoustic and Acoustic / Electric Guitars. We pride ourselves on making the best guitars possible at a price musicians can afford! Please take some time to view our range of superbly handcrafted Guitars, Accessories and Custom Options.

851 thoughts on “Maton Guitars”

  1. 70s Maton Amp
    Allan

    Ive got a Mastersound Amp T506 ,bought in Adalaide approx 1973
    this amp was second hand so i would like to know when it was made
    its a 2 channel twin speaker combo with a closed back.Its in very
    good condition with a great sound, whats it worth . cheers

    1. Re: Maton "El Toro"
      Mathew

      I have a maton el toro 1968 model. it is no. 10 in the series. A great guitar I can send you a photo, but need postal address…Australia.

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Raymond J. Brightwell
      Raymond J. Brightwell

      Hello there.
      What a beautiful sound. I bought a Maton 12 String yesterday. What a honey. I sing and write gospel. I play in a church worship team also. This is such a neat guitar. Model EM125C/12 569/698
      Questions;
      1/ How is the tone thing set up? I was told today that most 12 strings are a half tone lower than 6 strings. Is this true?

      2/ Do you have any info I could download that would be helpful in tuning correctly?

      3/ I have been told rechargable batteries are a no no. If yes yes why why?

      Hey I ‘ve only had it a day but love that sound. MMM mm

      Thanks for any advice and tips .
      Cheers
      Raymond J. Brightwell

  2. Ive got a Maton amp.
    Tim Griffiths

    To who ever,
    Hi my name is Tim. I have an old Maton amp from the mastersound series, I think its a super 6. Can you tell me if it is a collectable. It still works. It has one volume dial and one tone dial and two imputs. Its covered in a blue material and the serial number is B5050… Can some one help.
    Also I would like to know has there been a reduction in the quality of timber used in the production of the 325 series as ive noticed larger gap in the grain on various models…eg from an AA grade to an A grade…if some one could help… thanks.

    1. Re: Ive got a Maton amp.
      Cameron

      : I’ve got a maton amp too. It had two 8 inch Rola speakers which were blown and torn. I’ve replaced them with 8 inch Celestions. It sounds great but I know nothing about them. It’s got a tweed coloured snake skin pattern.

    1. Re: price list
      Michael

      You will be able to find a pricelist for Maton guitars from: ‘http://www.maton.com.au’. It is in .PDF (adobe acrobat) format, and is downloadable from the website given.

    1. Re: Maton Telecaster Circa 1969
      Phil

      : Found in a Melbourne second hand instument shop in 1975, this gem was originally a sunburst with black scratch plate, but had been sprayed white. I took it back to the Canterbury workshop in the late 70’s and the crew adjusted neck angle and re-shaped frets – No charge was the reply – built to last and lifetime guarantee. Has anyone else got one ?

      Yes I think I have one with the serial #151 It is packed away in the shed with heaps of other guitars. From memory it was also sunburst. I think I also have a similar vintage but more mustang/strat type.
      phil

      1. Re: Maton Telecaster Circa 1969
        Rob

        : had one of these and loaned it to a ‘friend’ in the late eighties, after which it magically disappeared. Been periodically pissed off about it ever since, as it was a really nice guitar. Mine was cream colour.

    2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Ian Rossiter
      Ian Rossiter

      Found in a Melbourne second hand instument shop in 1975, this gem was originally a sunburst with black scratch plate, but had been sprayed white. I took it back to the Canterbury workshop in the late 70’s and the crew adjusted neck angle and re-shaped frets – No charge was the reply – built to last and lifetime guarantee. Has anyone else got one ?

  3. Maton Ukelele
    Ron

    HI! fellow Maton fanatics. I have a pretty good collection of old Maton guitars, and one amp. What I have been looking for, for a long time is a Maton Ukelele, they have been out of production for many years. If any of you have one for sale, or know of one, drop me an email please.
    Thanks Ron

  4. Maton Ukelele
    Ron

    HI! fellow Maton fanatics. I have a pretty good collection of old Maton guitars, and one amp. What I have been looking for, for a long time is a Maton Ukelele, they have been out of production for many years. If any of you have one for sale, or know of one, drop me an email please.
    Thanks Ron

    1. Vintage Maton Silvertone electric Ukulele.
      Gregorio Vorso

      Hi Ron,
      I have one In the lockable box with keys, 6x spare old school Black Diamond strings in the paper packaging.. accessories are there too and a Nick Manoloff’s Hawaiian Guitar Method by M.M.Cole Publishing Chicago 1963. and another 6 string electric guitar book by M.M.Cole 1939. I can send photos if you like. Phone me if you like on: +61490 052 496. Australia

    2. maton guitar wanted
      Carlos

      Hello Ron – I was wondering if you’d be willing to sell one of your old Maton guitars.
      I owned one while living in NZ and I’m now based in USA – Dallas, and Tulsa frequently.

      Anyway – hope you’re well – thanks for your time:

      Carlos.

    3. Re: Maton Ukelele
      bev

      hi
      are you still at this address????? i have a maton ukelele that i am finding out about…..it has the original box too…it is round and i gather it is called ‘pineapple" shape…i am waiting to find out more about it as i am sure i got it 1967 and they weren’t apparrentley made until 1969….

  5. 50th Anniversary Maton for Sale
    Bill

    One of only 50 gutars made. This guitar has never been played and is in IMACULATE Condition. Suit collector or investor. Comes with quality hard case. $7200

  6. stolen !!! Phil Manning Custom Stereo
    roland bisshop

    I had my Phil Manning Custom stereo guitar stolen from highgate hill (Brisbane) house on 30/03/01. serial # is 004. it’s a honey blonde stain QLD sassafras. a beautiful guitar & i desperately want it back. cash reward offered for return. email me or phone 0416196711

    1. Re: stolen !!! Phil Manning Custom Stereo
      roland bisshop

      I ended up placing an ad in the Trading Post and someone responded, saying they thought they saw it. they did. I got my beautiful guitar back. thanks to everyone who was keeping an eye open.

    1. Re: Dana Westone guitar
      Doc

      : I was wondering is this rare?what is the value? I cant seem to find it on any sight. Thank you for your help!

      This depends alot on where yours was made … was it made in Korea or in Japan?

  7. 1961 maton fyrbyrd 4 sale
    jesse delaney

    anyone want to buy a 1961 maton fyrbyrd? as far as i can tell they’re pretty collectable. it’s white w/ a red scratch plate, 3 single coil pick ups, bigsby tremolo and sounds as cool as it looks. pretty collectable by what i’ve heard. and it’s in it’s original case.
    any enquiries my email is [email protected]
    or ring 0407069794.

    1. Re: 1961 maton fyrbyrd 4 sale
      kim horton

      do u have guitar still?

      : anyone want to buy a 1961 maton fyrbyrd? as far as i can tell they’re pretty collectable. it’s white w/ a red scratch plate, 3 single coil pick ups, bigsby tremolo and sounds as cool as it looks. pretty collectable by what i’ve heard. and it’s in it’s original case.
      : any enquiries my email is [email protected]
      : or ring 0407069794.

      1. Maton Mastersound bass(semi acoustic)
        Scott J

        I`ve got one, red also. still gig with it. I`ve had it about 33 years. I`ve never seen one the Maton web site & was never sure how many existed, mine is the only one I`ve ever seen. I`m currently waiting on replies from emails I`ve sent to Maton company for info on this model(what year it was made ect) If anyone else has any info would be much appreciated.

        1. Maton Mastersound bass(semi acoustic)
          Scott J

          I also forgot to add that it still has the original label inside in perfect condition with the numbers done by typewriter. Model- 1100 Serial No. 303

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... rob
      rob

      i owned a sound master bass once.it had "f"holes two pickups a red finnish over fretted woodgrain white beading around the edge and a crome bridge cover the base of the body was set on an angle the head had soundmaster bass with the maton logo and was very large making the body appear small the bass player from beast of burboune(tex perkins)had agreen one this bass has the best killer sound ever fender shmender rickenbacker cricketbat i need to know what type of bass this was and where i can get another one please help

  8. big maton
    Joe Summer

    Hi, I would be very glad to hear if anyone has a notion what my maton is worth. I can’t read the label inside anymore, it might be H ?? – i have had it since 1978 – but someone tells me it is a "country jumbo" and probably made in early 50s, but it wouldn’t be the first time she told me a story. Many thanks.

    1. Re: big maton
      John Dunn

      Hi Joe,
      What you have indeed sounds like an HG 100 professional Flat top. I have one: serial #444 which I bought in 1956 or there abouts.Apart from replacing the nut ,which was getting worn, and having the neck adjusted a couple of times,and resticking the bridge which was starting to lift,
      I am very happy with it. It still sounds great! Mine was valued for insurance purposes at NZ$1000 afew months ago.

      Regards, John

      1. Maton HG100 circa 1956
        Patroyd

        I have played my 1956 vintage Maton HG100 Professional for over half a century and it sounds and plays as good as ever. Maton repair dept have provided excellent after sales service. They repolished the guitar for me in 1968 and gave it a clean bill of health after its last checkup.
        It was interesting to see that Elvis Presley played a maton HG100 in Jailhouse Rock although in later scenes in the movie, the Maton logo is blacked out.
        You can view photos of Elvis playing the HG100 on the following link: http://scottymoore.net/epm_jhr_propMaton.html

    2. Re: big maton
      Peter Huisman

      I think you will find it is a HG I00. The Model & Serial # was typed on an old typewriter where the I letter was used for a 1. I have a Profesional H.G. I00. It looks sad, but it sounds absolutely beautiful. About 15 years ago I tried (stupidly) to convert it to a 12 string. The head split both sides and the bridge failed. I sent it back to Maton and they did a fantastic job on the head, suplying me with new machine heads (the old ones were never any good). The timber used fot the bridge unfortunatetly was a little too soft and it split again several ears later. A local repairer carved a lump out of it and fitted a rosewood insert. It is now as good as ever (but gnarled like a weathered face that only an owner could love). Pictures available on request.

      : Hi, I would be very glad to hear if anyone has a notion what my maton is worth. I can’t read the label inside anymore, it might be H ?? – i have had it since 1978 – but someone tells me it is a "country jumbo" and probably made in early 50s, but it wouldn’t be the first time she told me a story. Many thanks.

      1. Re: big maton
        Steve White

        Hello Peter,
        I just bought one that fits this description last night and guess what? The head is split on one side just like you mentioned. So is the bridge lifted and split like yours did.
        This one has no identifying features at all but I’m sure looking forward to having it repaired. Are you in Melbourne per chance? I’d love to see pictures to confirm what it is.
        Cheers for now
        Steve White

        : I think you will find it is a HG I00. The Model & Serial # was typed on an old typewriter where the I letter was used for a 1. I have a Profesional H.G. I00. It looks sad, but it sounds absolutely beautiful. About 15 years ago I tried (stupidly) to convert it to a 12 string. The head split both sides and the bridge failed. I sent it back to Maton and they did a fantastic job on the head, suplying me with new machine heads (the old ones were never any good). The timber used fot the bridge unfortunatetly was a little too soft and it split again several ears later. A local repairer carved a lump out of it and fitted a rosewood insert. It is now as good as ever (but gnarled like a weathered face that only an owner could love). Pictures available on request.

        : : Hi, I would be very glad to hear if anyone has a notion what my maton

        is worth. I can’t read the label inside anymore, it might be H ?? – i have had it since 1978 – but someone tells me it is a "country jumbo" and probably made in early 50s, but it wouldn’t be the first time she told me a story. Many thanks.

  9. Maton Starline - what a guitar! Also '60s DC1500, '85 Maton Stratocaster and '58 Supreme archtop
    aussieneil

    I have been playing and collecting guitars for some 30 years now, but only just recently bought a mint ’56 Starline. This guitar is amazing! I prefer it to my ’81 Gibson 335 dot reissue, and it challenges anything I’ve played.

    Also the others I have – an ’85 Stratocaster (reportedly one of 25 ever built), a ’60s DC1500 (what tone, and what funky looks!), and a beautiful totally mint ’58 Supreme acoustic archtop – these vintage guitars are equal to anything from the US!

      1. Re: Maton Starline - what a guitar! Also '60s DC1500, '85 Maton
        Dave Campbell

        : : I have been playing and collecting guitars for some 30 years now, but only just recently bought a mint ’56 Starline. This guitar is amazing! I prefer it to my ’81 Gibson 335 dot reissue, and it challenges anything I’ve played.

        : Yeah – I was labouring under misconception that maton produced great basses and acoustics but their e-guitars weren’t so hot. Dont know why – think my impressions were formed by guitarists I have known (!!) I have had for 15 years a fretless JB4 which I will never get rid of. Bought a DC1500 4 months ago and my 74 strat has not come out of its case since. Now everytime I pick up one of these old matons I notice that the necks and tuning are rock solid after all these years. The DC 1500 is a little "difficult" to play – it has more in common with acoustic necks than those glassy-necked 70s strats, but when you "get" it you "get" it for real. Think loud valve amp blistering on verge of feedback…man this guitar has character and guts. Dont expect it to do the washy indie unfocussed noise-scape stuff that you can do with solidbodies – its got a very individual voice with harmonics coming out all over the place – far more direct and in your face – think rockabilly, rock and roll, "round" jazz ala montgomery, hard edge jazz like miles era mclaughlin, jangle folk ala byrds, throw in a bit of Cream…it’s all there. Could write bucketloads more but wont bore you further. Summary -never write off a maton……and best of all it’s got history and it’s australian made………cheers Mark H

        : everywhereit you really do one of 25 ever built), a ’60s DC1500 (what tone, and what funky looks!), and a beautiful totally mint ’58 Supreme acoustic archtop – these vintage guitars are equal to anything from the US!

        I’ve had my 1965 DC-1500 for about 5 years now, and it’s easily my favorite guitar, if the house was on fire, it’s the one thing I’d go back inside to rescue.

        It has an amzing range of tones, from liltingly sweet clean jazz tone, to ear bleedingly raw distortion (fender valve amp or ac30 recommended) that would put any Gretch or Gibson on notice. Beautifully finished with pearl inlays on the fretboard, and a georgeous sunburst paintjob, it always elicits admiration from those who see it. Mine is now busy providing lashings of tone on my bands (Random Monkey Society) debut album, and has been used on numerous other projects over the years, with many more to come. I LOVE IT!!

      2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... markjhammond
        markjhammond

        : I have been playing and collecting guitars for some 30 years now, but only just recently bought a mint ’56 Starline. This guitar is amazing! I prefer it to my ’81 Gibson 335 dot reissue, and it challenges anything I’ve played.

        Yeah – I was labouring under misconception that maton produced great basses and acoustics but their e-guitars weren’t so hot. Dont know why – think my impressions were formed by guitarists I have known (!!) I have had for 15 years a fretless JB4 which I will never get rid of. Bought a DC1500 4 months ago and my 74 strat has not come out of its case since. Now everytime I pick up one of these old matons I notice that the necks and tuning are rock solid after all these years. The DC 1500 is a little "difficult" to play – it has more in common with acoustic necks than those glassy-necked 70s strats, but when you "get" it you "get" it for real. Think loud valve amp blistering on verge of feedback…man this guitar has character and guts. Dont expect it to do the washy indie unfocussed noise-scape stuff that you can do with solidbodies – its got a very individual voice with harmonics coming out all over the place – far more direct and in your face – think rockabilly, rock and roll, "round" jazz ala montgomery, hard edge jazz like miles era mclaughlin, jangle folk ala byrds, throw in a bit of Cream…it’s all there. Could write bucketloads more but wont bore you further. Summary -never write off a maton……and best of all it’s got history and it’s australian made………cheers Mark H

        everywhereit you really do one of 25 ever built), a ’60s DC1500 (what tone, and what funky looks!), and a beautiful totally mint ’58 Supreme acoustic archtop – these vintage guitars are equal to anything from the US!

  10. Maton Capitol F hole, what year made?
    peter

    I’ve been looking at a Maton Capitol F hole guitar, the glue in the neck has failed. The size of the guitar and construction is very similar to a Hofner Congress model, the glue at the base of the neck which attaches it to the body has failed in the same way as your typical Hofner increasing the action to about 3/8 inch.
    What year did Maton make the Capitol, will they ever be worth anything or is it just a "cheapie" like the Hofner congress?

      1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Ian
        Ian

        : I’ve been looking at a Maton Capitol F hole guitar, the glue in the neck has failed. The size of the guitar and construction is very similar to a Hofner Congress model, the glue at the base of the neck which attaches it to the body has failed in the same way as your typical Hofner increasing the action to about 3/8 inch.
        : What year did Maton make the Capitol, will they ever be worth anything or is it just a "cheapie" like the Hofner congress?

        Peter, I have a Maton capitol (bought in a junk shop for $100). Insideone of the f-holes is a sticker with the year of manufacture. Mine is 1968. It’s a tobacco sunburst finish and the glue has failed in the same spot. I use it for slide guitar and it has a great warm sound, totally different from a dobro or a dreadnought. Did you buy the one you were looking at ? I’d like to hear how it turned out. A young bloke visiting my house told me that he used to work for Maton and he was really impressed when he saw the thing on the stand. he reckons they are worth "a bit" whatecver that means.

        1. 1960's Maton Capitol k.10. any offers??
          rhino

          hey guys,beutiful guitar made in 1960 only 400 of them as far as l know..the best condition ever u wouldnt believe it never been touched.sounds awesome and electric,what kind of price would l be looking could any one tell me???thanks

          1. Maton Capitol K10
            gamete

            Rhino, I’ve had a similar one in top condition since 1987 and overpaid $800 (with a $300 trade-in).
            They are rare-ish, especially the ones with a convex soundboard, trapeze tail pieces and floating bridges.
            Mine has a pick up with volume and tone pots, tortoise shell pick guard etc., I recall a while back it being described
            by the Maton guru Neville as a bit of a franken guitar, made of left over models towards the end of the K10 line.

            I’m also interested in getting a price for it: if you’ve ever heard the Cruel Sea live you’ll know what kind of tone these guitars
            are capable of, and the amount of feedback you need to suppress too! I played mine through a 1970 Twin Reverb.

            I’m guessing you might get a dealer’s price of around $700-800 today as they’ll need to retail it at $1,200+ to make it worth their while.
            Happy to be corrected..

    1. Re: Maton Classical c 30
      greg

      Hi mate They were made from 1960 to i think
      around 1967 they have spruce top maple sides
      briailian rosewood fretboard, does yours have
      a cutaway,i think the ones with a cutaway were made in 63.

  11. Maton guitar flight case.
    Nina Lane

    To whom this concern,
    Can you please tell me what you recommend as a flight case for the EM325c accoustic electric, cutaway. Is the red Hyssox ample protection? Can you give me a price list and options. I am writing from Nelson, New Zealand. Can I do business with you from here??

    Thankyou very much,
    Nina Lane

  12. Can someone please date this old Lap Steel?
    Sandy

    Have a very old Maton Lap steel – Silvertone – Number 235 on the head at the back. Looks very old and used, but works
    perfectly and has an absolutely incredible sound. Photos available.
    Thanks

  13. Pricing for full range of Maton acoustic guitars
    Max Pearson

    I was wondering if you had a price list of your top of the range six string and twelve string acoustic guitars.
    Many thanks Max.

    1. Re: value of Maton acoustic guitar
      mark watson

      i was wondering if you might know what the value of a Maton F hole b-113 would be,what year it was made and what strings would best suit it,thank you

    2. Prices for basic maton acoustic guitar
      Brad Watterson

      i was wondering if you could e-mail me and tell me the prices for a basic 6 string acoustic, cutaway and normal. i’m just starting to learn and know that matons are a real good quality guitar. also the cost of sending it to Bunbury, Western Australia

    3. Re: Pricing for full range of Maton acoustic guitars
      Rob bennett

      : I was wondering if you had a price list of your top of the range six string and twelve string acoustic guitars.
      : Many thanks Rob .

      1. Re: Pricing for full range of Maton acoustic guitars
        Daniel Bradley

        I was wondering if you could send a full list of this years top 100 6 and 12 string acoustic guitars to my e-mail address with the ratings and any other info. that is available.
        I have seen a washburn 12 string and was wanting to know more info about it and any other models of a similar price, size and quality.
        Thank you.
        Dan.

      2. Re: Pricing for full range of Maton acoustic guitars
        mark daniels

        : : I was wondering if you had a price list of your top of the range six string and twelve string acoustic guitars.
        : : Many thanks Rob .

        1. Prices of left handed Dreadnoughts (handmade) with pickups - Any in stock?
          Mick Hanratty.

          : :I am interested in a left handed dreadnought with pickups, I think the code is w30.
          : :

    1. Re: grinspoon
      Jeff Nelson

      Absolutely! the man is one of the most sick guitarists in the world and man he can pull a tune out of that guitar like no one! fantastic phat sound and I’m gettin one for meself! Cheers!

  14. All of them
    Ron King

    Please send me all the latest brochures on all Maton electric acoustic
    guitars to 7 laycock street, Carey bay, Newcastle, N.S.W. Australia

    thanks: Ron King

  15. Maton "El Toro"
    Heinz Rebellius

    Hi, I have an extremely rare Maton "El Toro" Baritone guitar in the Danelectro-Longhorn-Style. It was made in 1967, is in near mint condition, and I would like to sell it to a collector. Please get in contact with me, when you are interested, and make an offer!

    1. Re: Maton "El Toro"
      gunter

      Do you still have it?

      : Hi, I have an extremely rare Maton "El Toro" Baritone guitar in the Danelectro-Longhorn-Style. It was made in 1967, is in near mint condition, and I would like to sell it to a collector. Please get in contact with me, when you are interested, and make an offer!

  16. how much is mine worth
    Robyn

    Hello. I’ve started learning to play my dad’s Maton that he bought about 30 years ago. It hasn’t been played until I came along. It’s model is F10. I can’t remember the other details of it. Cheers.

    1. Re: how much is mine worth
      garyjo5

      hi robyn , i have an f10 as well, i cant tell you what its worth but you can work out when it was made with the serial number. there are numbers in brackets to the right iof the serial no, the numbers are the month and year it was made. hope this helps

  17. please can you tell me???
    franki salvotore

    hey ya!!!
    would you please be abled to tell me how much and what year my maton is…..i have a maton jazz style guitar
    with an arch top, classic maton sunburt…(tobacco kinda busrt), with f-holes and "stradovarious" on the headstock…this model
    has no trus rod…
    can you please give me an idea on how much that she is worth???
    thanx for your precious time… stay groovy, franki.

  18. please can you tell me???
    franki salvotore

    hey ya!!!
    would you please be abled to tell me how much and what year my maton is…..i have a maton jazz style guitar
    with an arch top, classic maton sunburt…(tobacco kinda busrt), with f-holes and "stradovarious" on the headstock…
    can you please give me an idea on how much that she is worth???
    thanx for your precious time… stay groovy, franki.

  19. FG 150 @ EM325c
    Greg Dimmock

    I have 2 very loved and well used Maton which I have toured round Australia to at least 4000 schools since 1988 and also taken them to Cairo Kuala Lupur Fiji Japan.
    They are well serviced at the Guitar Factory at Glavesville N.S.W
    My FG150 is now 20 years old and my EM325C is 10 years old and is just great plugged in and unplugged.
    Great guitars keep up the good work.

    Greg Dimmock

  20. Maton Slide guitar
    Neville

    We have an old looking Maton Silvertone Slide guitar in really good condition. We tried the Maton history site to get some information but the page is blank. Do you have any information regarding how old it might be and what it might be worth. Thanks, Patrick Sheehan

      1. Re: Maton Slide guitar
        garry poli

        : Hi! Patrick regarding your old silvertone lap steel guitar. Firstly its pretty old, but the Maton company made two different six string single neck models at different times, I dont know which one you have. As for what its worth, that depends entirely on the condition. I have two, one of the first series made in the 50’s, in original case, and in very good condition. I have seen one like it advertised for over a grand. The second one I have is the later one, made in the early 60’s, I have seen several for sale over the past 15years, in top condition with case, they fetch 2 to 500 dollars. Hope this info might be of some help:
        : : We have an old looking Maton Silvertone Slide guitar in really good condition. We tried the Maton history site to get some information but the page is blank. Do you have any information regarding how old it might be and what it might be worth. Thanks, Patrick Sheehan

        gday guys i have a maton silvertone sixteen string twin neck i think ‘hawiian’steel slide guitar with four screwin crome legs cherry red in original hard case.Like patrick i cant find anyinfo on the history site no serial no that i can see on it.Id love to hear any feedback on this myserious instrument thanks gaz.

      2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Ron
        Ron

        Hi! Patrick regarding your old silvertone lap steel guitar. Firstly its pretty old, but the Maton company made two different six string single neck models at different times, I dont know which one you have. As for what its worth, that depends entirely on the condition. I have two, one of the first series made in the 50’s, in original case, and in very good condition. I have seen one like it advertised for over a grand. The second one I have is the later one, made in the early 60’s, I have seen several for sale over the past 15years, in top condition with case, they fetch 2 to 500 dollars. Hope this info might be of some help:
        : We have an old looking Maton Silvertone Slide guitar in really good condition. We tried the Maton history site to get some information but the page is blank. Do you have any information regarding how old it might be and what it might be worth. Thanks, Patrick Sheehan

  21. pricing of instruments?
    arron stellios

    Could you please send me a current price list of guitars in the range, including gst for the australian market
    yours sincerely
    astellios

    1. Re: pricing of instruments?
      taylor burch

      : Could you please send me a current price list of guitars in the range, including gst for the australian market
      : yours sincerely
      : taylor burch

  22. my friend sara
    steve

    my friend sara has some maton acoustic electric.
    i dont know the serial number or anything but she bought it for $1572 and she has done a heap of modifications to it like:
    taken of purfling and replaced it with Ivory.
    replaced tuning pegs with solid gold Ibanez tuning pegs of an electric guitar.
    it sounds really good but i think she has voided the warranty.
    is this so
    ?

    1. Re: Maton Firebirds
      Peter

      I’ll own up, I have one too! a 12 string electric – I think the pick ups are great – they sound unique.

      Keeping the guitar in tune during gigs can be a challenge and why didn’t they put the dots on the neck or on top of the neck?.

      I was told it was a 1968.

      Anyway re: info, I was given an old photocopy of the original Maton brochure which featured Fyrebirds, I’ll try to find it as it had photos and a blurb on each model.

      1. Re: Maton Firebirds
        Mike

        Hi all.
        I’ve got a 6 string FYRBYRD. I can’t say that it’s a great guitar but I certainly think it’s unique enough in both sound and feel that it deserves a place in guitar history.

      1. Re: Maton Firebirds
        Jade_Isphixin

        Hey dude I have one too! Yayness! Haha. It was my dad’s when he was like 20. I have no idea where he got it from he’s dead so that kinda stopped me asking when I finally took an interest haha. Email me if you want,[email protected]
        I’ve also been looking for a bit of info on them and from the looks of it there’s jack shit. Would be good to talk to someone who’s dealing with them too. They’re freakin old man haha.
        Anyways, catch ya later.
        If I don’t hear from you good luck with it.

        Jade.

        1. Re: Maton Firebirds
          Dave

          : Hey dude I have one too! Yayness! Haha. It was my dad’s when he was like 20. I have no idea where he got it from he’s dead so that kinda stopped me asking when I finally took an interest haha. Email me if you want,[email protected]
          : I’ve also been looking for a bit of info on them and from the looks of it there’s jack shit. Would be good to talk to someone who’s dealing with them too. They’re freakin old man haha.
          : Anyways, catch ya later.
          : If I don’t hear from you good luck with it.

          : Jade.

          I had one in when a teenager and wish I had kept it for old times sake. Do you wish to sell it?
          Dave [email protected]

      2. Re: Maton Firebirds
        marc

        : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?

        a little.. I have what I have bee ntold is a 1966 maton firebyrd..which I have had since 1990 – its a great guitar, with a crazy heavy sound – and a look reminiscent of a sixties burns guitar – I am keen to glean a little more on the history of this guitar – I have seen a later model a seventies one as used by nigel regan from the NZ band Head Like a Hole..I also know that one was used in the video for NZ band striaght jacket fits song ‘cat inna can’ which was shot in the sydney rail yards aboout 1994…now my guitar is residing in london…past owners of this one allegdedly are the aus grouip sky hooks.. ut dont qoute me on that

        1. It's a Maton Fyrbyrd
          Mike

          I bought one when I was 19 and back then it was nearly as old as I was. I still have it will never sell it. I play a Fender more these days but still drag it out on occasions. If you want to know a little more get on the Maton site as it has a bit on the older models. With the effects pedals these days it’s hard to tell the sound of one guitar to another. But the long neck on the Maton makes it easy to push the strings around. Whis is sort of handy as the Bigsby tremelo arm is pretty bad to try and keep on tune. Other than that a beautiful guitar and worth keeping. I,m sorry I changed the bridge just after I bought it because other than that it’s pretty original. Have fun with your and hopefully you can hand it down to you kids.
          Cheers
          Mike

            1. Maton Fyrbyrd
              Chrissie G

              I have a yellow Maton Fyrbyrd with red pick guards.

              Mint condition and still has the original stickers on the pick guards.

              Original case and is up for sale. A nice, and very solid guitar. Great sustain.

              Picked it up in the mid nineties and have never live, only in a studio setting.

              Open to offers.

              Email me at [email protected].

              Cheers Chris

      3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... daniel
        daniel

        : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
        yes i am alnly 13 but i own the firts maton firebird eva built.i got it from my granddad who was in a band.he got it from the company ages ago for 100 bucks

        1. Firebird 12 20 1965 mahogany body
          athol

          My pops wanting to sell his 1965 12 20 firebird only 7 where made with mahogany and this is the beast that has mahogany 190 where made so call him on 0400262864 it has a set price and it’s for real lovers of firebirds so don’t think it’s a steel it’s not. I’ve seen them go for 7000 this isn’t that much but it’s not 1800 ither. One owner it sounds and plays good . He took it to maton they gave his a sticker and letter of its authentic parst origanl tuners as well sweet bigsby Thankyou athol 0400262864

        2. 65 maton fire bird
          Anonymous

          My farther athol has a real mahogany no stain top.it has letter from maton. Saying all genuine parts it was drilled by maton to receive japan tuners but maton run out so they put maton cluson type on it. Maton confers this. there’s a slight case die on head stock. From case nothing Metho won’t get off . But we don’t won’t to loose the sticker from maton it’s very slight kiss from the lineing in the case.190 where made and 7 only had a mahogany body if you want a great opportunity to bye this 12 20 maton with bigsby. We’ve had it in the family for ages I remember playing it as a boy. I remember dad hoked it one time so us kids could get clothes for school it’s a one owner. And much love set up to rock. So call athol my dad if you’re up for it. PS ITS NOT A 1800 throw away maton it’s a keeper you will pay for so only for real people need aply as I don’t need my dad waiting your time and his PHONE NO IS 0400262864 lake rowan vic

        3. Maton Fyrbyrd
          Anonymous

          I am thinking of selling my guitar collection which includes a Maton Fyrbyrd 620FB Sharkbite. Serial number 426 approx. 1966?
          All original in yellow with red plate, bigsby. Photos or more info : [email protected]

    2. Re: Maton Firebirds
      Ron

      Maton made 3 Three different Fyrbyrd guitars at different times. The most common being the 6 string and 12 string from the early 60’s, they had a Fyrbyrd sticker on the top cutaway. As for value, any Fyrbyrd is a collectible today, the final value is determined by the original condition, e.g
      If they have been modified with new hardware, or a backyard respray, any structural damage, then that would put me off paying top dollar, sadly though I have found that most old Matons dont fetch prices like the U.S brands

    3. Re: Maton Firebirds
      Jade Rae

      : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
      Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.

      1. Re: Maton Firebirds
        Harry

        : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
        : Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
        Hi, do you want to sell it?

        1. Re: Maton Firebirds
          foley

          : : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
          : : Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
          : Hi, do you want to sell it?

          i own the first one eva built.I got it from my grandad who got it for 100 bucks.

          1. Re: Maton Firebirds
            foley

            : : : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
            : : : Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
            : : Hi, do you want to sell it?

            : i own the first one eva built.I got it from my grandad who got it for 100 bucks.
            my grandad put a tremlo arm on it.ITs all red
            and is a wierd shape.

            1. Re: Maton Firebirds
              foley

              : : : : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
              : : : : Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
              : : : Hi, do you want to sell it?

              : : i own the first one eva built.I got it from my grandad who got it for 100 bucks.
              : my grandad put a tremlo arm on it.ITs all red
              : and is a wierd shape.It is not for sale

      2. Re: Maton Firebirds
        We have one here(firebird 12 string electric) but we dont kmow much about i

        : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
        : Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.

      3. Re: Maton Firebirds
        Daniel Sharp

        : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
        : Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
        : Well that makes three of us who’d like to know…

        1. Re: Maton Firebirds
          Keith Barton

          : : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
          : : Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
          : : Well that makes three of us who’d like to know…

          : : What do you want to know about FYRBYRD’s. I have a 12-20 12 string that I bought in about 1966. It still isn’t easy to play. Like all 60’s Maton’s the pick ups are pretty crap. Without the 12 sting sound to help their sound is pretty bad.

        2. Re: Maton Firebirds
          Keith Barton

          : : : Does anyone have any info about late 1960s Maton Firebirds?
          : : Yeah,I wanna know too.If anyone has an answer PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
          : : Well that makes three of us who’d like to know…
          : : What do you want to know ? I’ve got a 12-20 12 string FYRBYRD ( not Firebird ). I bought it in about 1966 and it’s still hard to play.

          1. 12 String fyrebyrd
            gary

            Me too: I have a green 12-20, complete with Bigsby…was at a Maton show the other day, they say it is early 60’s, no later than 1964.

            There are quite a few Fyrebyrds around, in different shapes + colours, but apart from being a 60’s geetar, I don’t know a lot about them. Like most Matons, they have great necks and ordinary pickups. They certainly are one of the more adventurous looking geetars….I have some different PUs on mine so it sounds good…

            1. Re: 12 String fyrebyrd
              Noel Ferry

              I have a brown sunburst 1220 with bigsby serial number 108 that means the eighth one made. I purchased it in 1968 second hand –they only made 120 of them and acording to the maton products list they were made in 1965 to 1966:but when talking to mayton they said 1961 to 1962 so im not sure –anyway they are a nice old guitar –strange tone controls though.

      1. Re: Guitar
        Clayton

        : : Hello! I’ve just found a Maton DC1500 in my grandmothers closet. Serial #266. How much is it worth?

        I guess how much it is worth depends very much on how much someone is willing to pay? How does one find out it’s woods, it’s age, its condition and how beautiful or otherwise it sounds?

        I have played a couple of older Matons, a 25 + year old Coolibah, was OK, but didn’t do much for me, but I fell in love with a 30 year old Maton the other day – but I can’t have it!

        1. Re: Guitar
          Mark Hammond

          Hi there,
          Was wondering how your Grnadma’s DC1500 is going. Have you sold it? Or did you fall in love with it and hang on to it? I have a DC 1500 which is a very cool guitar (1965).

          Let me know if your considering selling…

          Cheers and happy festive season!

          Mark H.

          : : : Hello! I’ve just found a Maton DC1500 in my grandmothers closet. Serial #266. How much is it worth?

          : I guess how much it is worth depends very much on how much someone is willing to pay? How does one find out it’s woods, it’s age, its condition and how beautiful or otherwise it sounds?

          : I have played a couple of older Matons, a 25 + year old Coolibah, was OK, but didn’t do much for me, but I fell in love with a 30 year old Maton the other day – but I can’t have it!

      2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... gf
        gf

        : Hello! I’ve just found a Maton DC1500 in my grandmothers closet. Serial #266. How much is it worth?

  23. Maton Collectable Guitars
    Jim Collingridge

    [The body of this post has been reconstituted from replies so it may differ from what was originally written.]

    I have owned a pristine condition Maton Jazz Man 45 guitar …Serial # 1855 (368) for over 30 years. It was special
    ordered by musician Rick Thomson from Magrath, Alberta, Canada with Hofner pickups, custom Framus parts and a
    hard case. It is a beautiful instrument in ‘as new’ condition. Does this quality maintained instrument have significant
    collector value?
    Jim Collingridge
    University College of the Cariboo
    Kamloops, BC,. Canada V2C 5N3
    E-mail: [email protected]

      1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Claire Salkeld
        Claire Salkeld

        I own a second hand maton,Jasmin 6 string, original condition,solid body electric with 24 fret Di mazio super humbuckers that is appx 20 yrs old. how much would it be worth?

        : I have owned a pristine condition Maton Jazz Man 45 guitar …Serial # 1855 (368) for over 30 years. It was special
        : ordered by musician Rick Thomson from Magrath, Alberta, Canada with Hofner pickups, custom Framus parts and a
        : hard case. It is a beautiful instrument in ‘as new’ condition. Does this quality maintained instrument have significant
        : collector value?

        : Jim Collingridge
        : University College of the Cariboo
        : Kamloops, BC,. Canada V2C 5N3

        : E-mail: [email protected]

        1. Maton EM400
          Don Clacherty

          I am trying to find out the information on the EM400 Maton. It is not a Cutaway but a Full shape. If anyone knows the history
          (Years Made, Colour etc.) I would be very grateful for any information. The Serial No. is 1212(694).

          Don Clacherty

    1. how much is mine worth???
      franki

      hey there, coll….
      how’s it shakin’??? well my name is franki…and i have a question for you…i have a maton
      guitar…i am not sure of the year that it was made….but she is an oldie…it has a cut away, it is a jazz style
      guitar with a tobacco burstish finish on her…this model was pre-trussrod…it has an arch top with f-holes…
      it also has "stradovarius" on the head stock…do you know what year(s) these fine instruments were made???
      and do you have any idea what she would be worth??? i would appreciate if you could drop me a line some-
      time soon……thanx mate….yer a "bloddy" legend…….stay groovy, franki!!

    2. how much is mine worth???
      franki

      hey there, coll….
      how’s it shakin’??? well my name is franki…and i have a question for you…i have a maton
      guitar…i am not sure of the year that it was made….but she is an oldie…it has a cut away, it is a jazz style
      guitar with a tobacco burstish finish on her…this model was pre-trussrod…it has an arch top with f-holes…
      it also has "stadovarius" on the head stock…do you know what year(s) these fine instruments were made???
      and do you have any idea what she would be worth??? i would appreciate if you could drop me a line some-
      time soon……thanx mate….yer a "bloddy" legend…….stay groovy, franki!!

    3. Re: Maton Collectable Guitars
      franki

      hey there, coll….
      how’s it shakin’??? well my name is franki…and i have a question for you…i have a maton
      guitar…i am not sure of the year that it was made….but she is an oldie…it has a cut away, it is a jazz style
      guitar with a tobacco burstish finish on her…this model was pre-trussrod…it has an arch top with f-holes…
      it also has "stadovarius" on the head stock…do you know what year(s) these fine instruments were made???
      and do you have any idea what she would be worth??? i would appreciate if you could drop me a line some-
      time soon……thanx mate….yer a "bloddy" legend…….stay groovy, franki!!

        1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Gary
          Gary

          : hey there, coll….
          : how’s it shakin’??? well my name is franki…and i have a question for you…i have a maton
          : guitar…i am not sure of the year that it was made….but she is an oldie…it has a cut away, it is a jazz style
          : guitar with a tobacco burstish finish on her…this model was pre-trussrod…it has an arch top with f-holes…
          : it also has "stadovarius" on the head stock…do you know what year(s) these fine instruments were made???
          : and do you have any idea what she would be worth??? i would appreciate if you could drop me a line some-
          : time soon……thanx mate….yer a "bloddy" legend…….stay groovy, franki!!

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