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Fine Acoustic Fretted Instruments

Located in Studio City California (818-760-1623), we specialize in the finest custom, vintage, and other fine acoustic fretted instruments including mandolins, banjos, steel and nylon string guitars. Call or visit 11734 Ventura Blvd. Mon. – Sat. 11 am to 5 pm Pacific time.

History & Purpose: The retail store opened in Pasadena in 1993 after more than 25 years of playing, studying, repairing, collecting, buying, selling, and trading as an avocation. The shop moved to Studio City late in 1996 to be closer to the center of the music industry in Hollywood, Burbank, Van Nuys, and Sherman Oaks. So here we are “in the fast lane”, about a mile west of Universal Studios. We remain dedicated to our original purpose – to encourage and support participation in music.

Related Guitars:
acoustic guitar
If you’re looking for an acoustic guitar in the sub $1000 price range, then take a look at our recommendations here.
 

344 thoughts on “Fine Acoustic Fretted Instruments”

  1. Ventura Bruno v-10
    Anonymous

    I came across a ventura Bruno v-10 in pretry bad pretty friend of mine was throwing away. I seen it as a good project guitar considering the bang up condition its in. My friend told me if I wanted it then I’d better grab it otherwise to trash pile it was going. I dont know much about Ventura guitars other than what the label reads, Ventura Bruno model V-10 serial # 44080. Is there more you can tell me about this guitar.

  2. Ventura Electric Acoustic Guitar
    Mary

    I have a Ventura Electric Acoustic Guitar with B871 stamped inside. Is there a resource or site I can go to that will tell me more about it? I’m still looking for the serial number.

  3. I have a nice v16 mint ?
    wesleeroy

    I have just bought it and it looks and sounds great. I don’t understand how it could be so nice. Usually if it is too good to be true its too good to be true!!!! The hard case is super too

  4. I bought a Ventura 696 around 1984 of a guy that needed money for a bag of pot. I paid $40.00 for it and wouldn’t sell it today for $4000.00. I play a fender, yamaha, and gibson but keep coming back to my old Venture ! Absolutely love it !!

  5. need help.
    lost420.

    a friend gave me an old guitar. just wanted to know what i got.the label in the inside says BRUNO VENTURA. Model#1583. serial#13694…..can someone help me out???

  6. Ventura Bruno V-25 Serial #86821
    Fern

    I have a beautiful Ventura Bruno V-25 which I inherited from my uncle. It was probably purchased in the last 60’s early 70’s… just a guess. Could anyone give me any information on this guitar and maybe a value? I don’t want to sell it, but I would like to know a little about it.

  7. ventura electric guitar
    ged u.k.

    can anyone help me shed a little light on a ventura electric guitar i have just aquired i lve in the u.k. and searched high and low for information but keep hitting brick walls any help please

    1. Re: ventura electric guitar
      ged uk

      : can anyone help me shed a little light on a ventura electric guitar i have just aquired i lve in the u.k. and searched high and low for information but keep hitting brick walls any help please .i can send pics if it helps anyone to identify the guitar i have
      many thanks for reading ged

  8. Ventura Bruno V1587
    Chelsea

    I just got this guitar from my grandmother and im thinking its probably about 30 years old, but she bought it from a pawn shop a while back and we wanted to know some of its history and how much its worth.

    1. Re: i have a ventura bruno v-13 acoustic guitar
      derek wunsch

      :
      : info? please about this guitar
      i just bought a ventura v-13, serial #00747. any idea what it is worth? like new condition. VERY dark wood with inlay around top and sound hole….also, brass pegs and bridge. thanks, derek….oh, no mention of the name bruno, just "fine fretted instruments,designed in USA, built in japan

      1. Ventura V-13 Acustic Guitar
        Dale Newcombe

        I have one of these guitars also. I have had it since December 1982. It has the brass pegs, bridge and nut. I am fond of the sustain and sound quality. My family owns many diferent guitars including Martin, Yamaha, Taylor and a custom hand made Blue Ridge Guitar but me and my son keep going back to the V-13 time and time again. It has been a member of the family for 31 years. I used to play songs for my kids when they were young and now they’re grown, they play it. I really like D’Addario strings on it, they seem to add a richness to the sound. I have no idea what it’s worth monitarily, but it’s priceless personally.

  9. ventura bass info
    cameron

    i have a 4-string ventura bass. i can’t find any info on it though. it looks to be a copy of the fender jazz bass. 2 pickups, 3 knobs (2 vol, 1 tone i believe). sunburst. ashtrays. hard case. can’t find a serial or model number on it anywhere. anyone know what it is? i’m also looking to sell it if anyone’s interested.

  10. Hi,

    I have a chance to buy a guitar, which I speculate is a Ventura just because the case it comes in has a band on the bottom of the inside of the case that says "Ventura". Unfortunately, the label on the inside has been taken off. Is there anywhere I can send a pic to assess whether or not I’m getting this at a decent price?

    1. VENTURA BRUNO V 23
      ps2000man

      I just picked up a Ventura Bruno v 23 and it’s beautiful. The pickguard fell off but I’m replacing it with a custom vintage tortoise Hummingbird pickguard with white and gold engraving. It sounds good and loud. I hope it goes up in value and I love that fact that it is from the 1970s.
      Very cool guitar.

    2. Re: Ventura Bruno V23
      gary

      : Was wondering if anyone knew how much a Ventura Bruno V23 was worth. If you do please email me.

      It is a japanese guitar made in the 70’s. not sure of its worth but I am looking to purchase one as it was the same guitar my father played and he taught me how to play the guitar on this same model. I am very interestred in purchasing one for sentimental reasons.

      1. Re: Ventura Bruno V23
        Mary

        : : Was wondering if anyone knew how much a Ventura Bruno V23 was worth. If you do please email me.

        : It is a japanese guitar made in the 70’s. not sure of its worth but I am looking to purchase one as it was the same guitar my father played and he taught me how to play the guitar on this same model. I am very interestred in purchasing one for sentimental reasons.

        Trying to reach Gary – I have a V-23

    1. Re: Ventura Guitar
      Star

      : Does anybody know anything about a Ventura Bruno V24 12 string? What they are worth?

      I just found it on E-bay back in June of this year. I paid $355.00, and think its worth every cent. I owned one 30 years ago and it was tackled and destroyed while playing on stage. If you want to know more, email me.

  11. Ventura 14/model 30842
    Cindy Owens

    I just recently acquired this acoustic guitar and was wondering if you could help me figure out how much it is actually worth. Its in excellent condition. Thanks for your help.

  12. Ventura 12string model V-797
    Andy

    Just recently purchased this 12 string guitar. It is solid cedar and rosewood….not laminates. Sounds great but I am going to have to have some work done on it. Anyone know anything about this model?

  13. Ventura V-21
    David

    I have a Ventura V-21… I have not seen any posts about the V-21. Does anyone else have one? Everyone who has played it has wanted to buy it from me lol, it’s an EXCELLENT guitar. Does anyone know any info on it? E-mail me, or reply. Thanks.

    1. Re: Ventura V-21
      Asa

      : I have a Ventura V-21… I have not seen any posts about the V-21. Does anyone else have one? Everyone who has played it has wanted to buy it from me lol, it’s an EXCELLENT guitar. Does anyone know any info on it? E-mail me, or reply. Thanks.

      1. Re: Ventura V-21
        Cassady

        I just bought an acoustic on Craigslist and the lady threw in a free "extra guitar that needs work." It’s a Ventura V-21. It needs about $20 worth of nut work, but sounds incredible. She didn’t know what she had. I’m doing research on what exactly I now have. Does your V-21 have a brass nut as well as brass pegs?

    1. Re: Ventura 12 string V-17
      Dan

      : My father gave me his Ventura 12-string v-17 guitar a few years ago and I am looking for any information I can get on it, including its value. Please email me any information you can at [email protected]

      I bought mine in 1970 for $110. Wouldn’t know the present day value. Has good sound.

  14. Have a Ventura...I don't know what model or anything about it. Please Help!
    nikki

    I found a ventura guitar in my storage the other day. It was my dad’s and i just wondered how yall know what model and all that is? Please help me.

    1. Re: Have a Ventura...I don't know what model or anything about it. Please Help!
      David

      : I found a ventura guitar in my storage the other day. It was my dad’s and i just wondered how yall know what model and all that is? Please help me.

      If you could send a picture that would help. Otherwise look at the label on the inside where it reads "Ventura Fine Fretted Instruments, under that it should read serial number, and under that model number."

      1. Re: I am looking for a Ventura V-35
        David

        : How do I tell what model mine is?

        There should be a sticker on the inside of the guitar that says "Ventura Fine Fretted Instriments" and below that it should say serial number, and below that model number.
        It will look differant if it is a Ventura Bruno.

    1. Re: ventura v-35 how old is it?
      Al

      It is from the 70’s.

      I brought my Ventura V-35 to a music store,
      and they offered me $100 for it. I think it must
      be worth more than that, but not to music stores.

      : I have a ventura bruno v-35 serial #84132.
      : Does anyone know how old it is? and what is it’s worth

  15. ventura electric 12 string neck
    ed

    I need an electric bolt-on 12 string neck for a guit-project. Any one out there do a "Who" on theirs and still have the neck? RSVP please. By the way, I have the Ventura 335 style walnut model with no f holes. Love it! Anyone know the model designation?

  16. Ventura Lucite ( Dan Armstrong copy 1970's)
    bfo5150

    Anyone know what model this guitar is? Where can I find parts either original or aftermarket ? If you have some, please email.. Thanks

  17. Ventura V-6
    John

    Just bought a Ventura V-6 from a pawn shop on July 9 in South GA. I was just hoping to learn how to play a guitar, but now I’m curious about who made the brand, year made, value, and so on. It’s actually in good shape, already had new steel strings on it, and sounds great to me (even though I’m a beginner). On sticker inside it has
    Model # 49298, Fine Fretted Instruments, Designed in America, Built in Japan. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, John

    1. Re: Ventura V-6
      sue

      : I also own a ventura v-6 guitar. I paid $50.00 for it from a guy who didn’t know how to play. I bought it in 1973 and it has the same thing inside as yours. Fine fretted instrument , designed in america built in Japan. Model # 380 95 . I love the guitar. Seems like no matter how long it is before I play it , I never have to retune it. I use earthwood light steel strings on it. and it has a very deep ringing tone . It also has such a nice neck it doesn’t make my fingers sore evn tho I don’t play often anymore. I have been trying to find out more on these guitars but haven’t had much luck. I guess we can just enjoy them anyway. I do hope you can find out more on them. If so maybe you could inform me. I don’t think ypou will be disappointed in your guitar. The older they get the better they sound
      Good luck Sue

  18. Ventura Bruno V-17 12 String
    Glenn Blaylock

    Just purchased this guitar at an antique shop in Tucson it’s beautiful but I need more info. Never owned a Ventura Bruno 12 string and would like someone to tell me something about it Serial # 89507. Not for sale.

    1. Re: Ventura Bruno V-17 12 String
      Dan

      : Just purchased this guitar at an antique shop in Tucson it’s beautiful but I need more info. Never owned a Ventura Bruno 12 string and would like someone to tell me something about it Serial # 89507. Not for sale.

      I bought mine new in 1970 for $80. I was working in the studio, they retailed then for $110

    2. Re: Ventura Bruno V-17 12 String
      Karl Baumgarten

      I have owned a Ventura V-16 12 string acoustic guitar that I bought new in 1968. It is still in very good condition having been under tension for 35 years or so. The finish and inlays are nice and it plays beautifully.

      : Just purchased this guitar at an antique shop in Tucson it’s beautiful but I need more info. Never owned a Ventura Bruno 12 string and would like someone to tell me something about it Serial # 89507. Not for sale.

  19. Ventura Bruno V-17 12 String
    Glenn Blaylock

    Just purchased this guitar at an antique shop in Tuson it’s beautiful but I need more info. Never owned a Ventura Bruno 12 string and would like someone to tell me something about it Serial # 89507. Not for sale.

  20. Ventura Bruno V-17 12 String
    Glenn Blaylock

    Just purchased this guitar at an antique shop in Tuson it’s beautiful but I need more info. Never owned a Ventura Bruno 12 string and would loke someone to tell me something about it Serial # 89507.

    1. Re: Ventura Bruno Model V-6, s/n 53835
      Al

      I bought my Ventura Bruno, a new guitar,in 1965 from my father-in-law, who owned a music store. I’m trying to trace info on it. I have no idea when it was manufactured nor where. I have kept it in a case over the years and it looks great.

      : I GET THIS V-6 IN A pawn shop in 1972. i like to know when it was made? it’s is a v-6 serial # 63170 .

    2. Re: ventura v-6
      Budman

      I was in the Army in 1975 at Ft. Hood TX. One of the guys in my unit was going to go AWOL and needed some money. I bought his V-6 (SN 84628) for $25. I now have 3 Strats, A Hagstrom Swede, an Ovation double neck and a few Ibanez guitars. But when I just want to play or if I`m trying to figure out a song I always go back to the Ventura. Very easy action and a sweet full sound. If you check Ebay you’ll find them once in a while selling for next to nothing but don’t let the guitar snobs fool you. I wouldn’t even consider selling mine.

    3. Re: ventura v-6
      Brett

      My first guitar was a ventura v-6 serial 48824. It was a gift from my grandmother when i was in the 6th grade. It sounds as good as my father-inlaw’s 1965 gibson. I’d like to know what one is worth, but a man’s first guitar is priceless.

    4. Re: ventura v-6
      BigJack

      I have a V-6. It was given to me as a birthday present from my girlfriend in 1977 or 1978. She purchased it new from Progressive Music in Kalamazoo, MI. As I recall, she paid $150 for it. The label says, Ventura, Fine Fretted Instruments, Serial # 48850, designed in USA, built in Japan.

      1. Re: ventura v-6
        John

        : I have a V-6. It was given to me as a birthday present from my girlfriend in 1977 or 1978. She purchased it new from Progressive Music in Kalamazoo, MI. As I recall, she paid $150 for it. The label says, Ventura, Fine Fretted Instruments, Serial # 48850, designed in USA, built in Japan.
        Hi BigJack, I just bought a Ventura Model # V-6 on, July 9, at a pawn shop with a serial no. close to yours. My Serial # 49298, designed in USA, built in Japan, same as yours. I bought it on the spur of the momment kinda thing, finally giving into a lifelong dream of learning how to play a guitar. Anyway, I was hoping that maybe you had got some feedback, or info. on yours, and if you could please let me in on your findings? Mine is actually in good shape, already had new steel strings on it, and I bought it for
        $ 50.00 even. I’m not sure if I got took or, got a good deal, being I don’t know a thing about guitars. A friend of mine, that knows how to play, said it has good sound to it, but he’s not familiar with the brand. Any info. would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, John

        1. Re: ventura v-6
          Heather

          : Hi BigJack, I just bought a Ventura Model # V-6 on, July 9, at a pawn shop with a serial no. close to yours. My Serial # 49298, designed in USA, built in Japan, same as yours. I bought it on the spur of the momment kinda thing, finally giving into a lifelong dream of learning how to play a guitar. Anyway, I was hoping that maybe you had got some feedback, or info. on yours, and if you could please let me in on your findings? Mine is actually in good shape, already had new steel strings on it, and I bought it for
          : $ 50.00 even. I’m not sure if I got took or, got a good deal, being I don’t know a thing about guitars. A friend of mine, that knows how to play, said it has good sound to it, but he’s not familiar with the brand. Any info. would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, John

          Hi John,
          I don’t know what the actual value of the V-6 is, but I know that mine is priceless to me. My father bought it for me in 1980, when I first started learning to play, on the advice of my uncle, who is a professor of classical guitar at UNC Chapel Hill. At the time I know we payed more than $250 for it. Given that was 25 years ago, and out of all the guitars I’ve owned over the years, it still has the best sound to my ears, though they may be slightly biased by loyalty and nostalgia, I would say that you got more than a good deal for your $50. Just thought I’d let you know…

          Heather

    5. Re: ventura v-6
      Dustin

      I don’t know how much it is worth Brian, but when my girlfriend’s grandpa passed away he gave her his guitar which was a Ventura V-6(serial #48000). I’ve been playing on it and i’d like to know how much it is worth, and what year it was made because it does not say on the guitar.

      1. My Old Ventura
        Robin

        My first guitar was a ventura acoustic 6 string ( Christmas present)1968. I have no idea what the model was but I really loved that guitar. Before I knew what the adjustable truss rod was for (was a big mystery to me), I thought the neck was just gone….useless. I traded it to a music store in 1978. I’d know that guitar if I ever saw it again. There was a paint bristol left behind an the upper bout side (we thought they may have hand painted the guitars). There was also a red scratch …maybe 1/2 ” long on the lower bout face (I think I got mad at my little brother and was chasing him out of the room while I was practicing). Every time I go to a pawn shop, That guitaR is always in the back of my mind. Last week, I found a V-6. The strings were old and rusty, the ssaddle was cracked …but the neck looks supurb. I’m real excited about getting it back to playing order. I intend to keep this one and keep looking. Thanks for posting this forum.

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

      I have a Ventura v-29 and one of my tuning keys broke, probably due to the age of it. I’m looking for any other V-29’s out there or if someone knows where I can find a replacement key for it. Are there other models that used the same tuning keys etc?

      This guitar has great sentimental and personal value. Mine was given to me by a dear 88 year old luthier who passed away last year…I’d really appreciate any help you could offer. I really want to get it fixed and back playing again. It plays and sounds like a dream.

      Thank you very much

    1. Re: Ventura Bruno V-17
      Charlene

      : I have just purchased a ventura V-17. I am curious to know what they are worth now days. Can anyone tell me? I have the serial number 39818.

  21. Ventura Bruno V-25
    Mayhem

    Help! I inherited this guitar (Ventura Bruno V-25-Acoustic) and I want very badly to play it, but I don’t know how to string it. I’m trying to put nylon strings on and the pegs aren’t holding the strings. Can anybody help?

    Thanks

    1. Re: Ventura Bruno V-25
      Lou

      : Help! I inherited this guitar (Ventura Bruno V-25-Acoustic) and I want very badly to play it, but I don’t know how to string it. I’m trying to put nylon strings on and the pegs aren’t holding the strings. Can anybody help?

      : Thanks

      :try putting the strin through the hole twice then insert a tooth pick into the hole and break it off:

  22. Ventura V-9 12-string
    Diana

    I bought this Ventura V-9 guitar in the mid 1970s Anyone who has information on it, please fill me in. I love the guitar and would like to know the value if possible. Thanks!

    1. I realize that this response is over 11 years after you posted. I acquired a V-9 this past weekend, and am having a helluva time trying to find out more about it. I have subscribed to a website (vintaxe.com) with scanned Ventura catalogs, and the model V-9 was not featured in the ’68, ’70, “’70s”, ’76, or ’82 Ventura catalogs. My research has told me that Ventura went out of business due to a law suit filed by Gibson over patent infringement.
      This is the first reference I have seen made to this particular model in a couple of days of diligent research. What I do know for certain is that my new guitar plays and sounds as good as a $1000+ instrument, and I paid less than $70 with new strings included. The condition is excellent, as well.
      After speaking with a friend that owns a guitar store, I know that this guitar is worth what a buyer is willing to spend, and the best price would be found at a guitar show. I wouldn’t part with mine for less than $350, personally.

  23. This guitar was given to me 4 years ago by a nun I went to church with it. I have a feeling she had it a while before giving it to me. Just wondering the value of it and age if anyone can tell me. thankyou

        1. worth of ventura v23
          snowbird02

          I own a v23 and these are not worth a lot of money yet , maybe in another hundred years , but they are worth keeping because they have heart . they are selling for around two to three hundred to someone that really wants one.

    1. Sull looking for parts for this old Ventura lucite Dan Armstrong copy
      bfo

      : Help, I still need some replacement parts. Anyone know of any around?? Thanks, Bill

  24. Ventura v-35 coustic guitars
    Don Secor

    i have owned a few ventur guitars over the years!, some real nice v-696’s, and a v-20, v25, and have 2-v-35 acoustic’s now, my question is , i have seen a v-40 but not as deluxe inlay work as my v-35 guitars, due they have a more custon inlay ventura acoustic , and what would the model number be?, v-45? etc?, please email, and thank you!, Don

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

        I have not seen any indications of a more deluxe model. According to the Ventura catalog the V-35 seems to be their top of the line guitar. I have never heard any mention of a V-40, maybe it is an earlier model.

        : i have owned a few ventur guitars over the years!, some real nice v-696’s, and a v-20, v25, and have 2-v-35 acoustic’s now, my question is , i have seen a v-40 but not as deluxe inlay work as my v-35 guitars, due they have a more custon inlay ventura acoustic , and what would the model number be?, v-45? etc?, please email, and thank you!, Don

        1. Ventura Guitar
          Charley

          I have a Ventura Guitar that was sold to me by Freddie Heart’s brother, his name is Bud Curley and he lives here in Talladega Alabama, Bud & Freddie had the same mother but different father. But anyway Bud sold me this guitar when I was pastoring the Cherry Street Church of God here in Talladega, inside in the guitar it has this: VENTURA SS# 30383, model # V-35, also has written in it, designed in USA, built in Japan. Bud said this was one of Freddie Heart’s first guitar, and also told me that he has a picture of him playing this guitar but couldn’t find it. So if you have any information on this guitar or what’s worth please let me know and thank you for your help,
          Rev Charley Bolt

        2. I have had this V-35 since 1979 when I bought it new. It has a three piece back, Rosewood neck and Mother of pearl inlays. It is the most beautiful sounding guitar that I have ever played. All of my “pro” friends have offered to buy it. I say no. The intonation and tone are fabulous. Some of the paneling is peeling now. I just superglue it back. This was the top of the line Ventura back in “79” and I have loved it since. This one goes in the coffin with me.

        3. Ventura v-35
          Jeff Stockton

          I traded heavily for a nice condition Ventura V-35 acoustic with Brazilian Rosewood sides and back and a solid Spruce top. I liked the wood, the look and the sound. A set up, Tortoise pickguard and Elixer strings really improved it. I would really like to know the actual value of my new vintage guitar.

    1. Re: Ventura v-35 coustic guitars
      DREW

      I HAVE A QUESTION, I AM LOOKING INTO SALEING MY VENTURE GUITAR MODLE V-35 WITH A HARD CASE. YOU SEEM TO KNOW ALOT, HOW MUCH SULD I SELL MY GUITAR?

      1. Re: Ventura v-35 coustic guitars
        David

        I would am interested in purchasing the V-35 if you have not already sold it. I have seen Aspen DR-35 which are pretty similiar go on Ebay for around $300, but I Have never seen a Ventura V-35 for sale. Let me know what you think a fair asking price is.

        Thanks,

        David

        : I HAVE A QUESTION, I AM LOOKING INTO SALEING MY VENTURE GUITAR MODLE V-35 WITH A HARD CASE. YOU SEEM TO KNOW ALOT, HOW MUCH SULD I SELL MY GUITAR?

  25. Ventura 6 string with beautiful dark wood top
    Craig

    I used to have a Ventura 6 string that had the most beautiful dark wood top. It was given to me before I joined the service, so I never knew much about it’s history. All of the hardware was brass, and the head had some sort of inlay, mother of pearl, abalony, or something like that. It had a fantastic sound, comparable to many other "name brand" guitars I’ve owned. Unfortunately this guitar parished along with everything else I owned when my house buned in 1986. I would appreciate if someone could tell me what model this guitar was, and where I might find another one.

    1. Re: Ventura V-16
      Daniel

      Hello Jim,
      I have a V-16 and I’m trying to figure the age of it. I know you purchased yours in 1973. Would you mind giving me the serial number so that I can compare.
      Thanks,
      Daniel

      1. Re: Ventura V-16
        Dave

        : Hello Jim,
        : I have a V-16 and I’m trying to figure the age of it. I know you purchased yours in 1973. Would you mind giving me the serial number so that I can compare.
        : Thanks,
        : Daniel

        Helo Daniel,
        I’m also a Dave who has a V-16 (Serial #41363) I bought from a friend in Bakersfield in 1972. On a cross beam inside my guitar its stamped 0620, which I suppose is the production number. What does yours say?
        Dave 🙂

        1. Re: Ventura V-16
          RObert

          : : Hello Jim,
          : : I have a V-16 and I’m trying to figure the age of it. I know you purchased yours in 1973. Would you mind giving me the serial number so that I can compare.
          : : Thanks,
          : : Daniel

          : Helo Daniel,
          : I’m also a Dave who has a V-16 (Serial #41363) I bought from a friend in Bakersfield in 1972. On a cross beam inside my guitar its stamped 0620, which I suppose is the production number. What does yours say?
          : Dave 🙂

          1. Re: Ventura V-16
            Robert

            : : : Hello Jim,
            : : : I have a V-16 and I’m trying to figure the age of it. I know you purchased yours in 1973. Would you mind giving me the serial number so that I can compare.
            : : : Thanks,
            : : : Daniel

            : : Helo Daniel,
            : : I’m also a Dave who has a V-16 (Serial #41363) I bought from a friend in Bakersfield in 1972. On a cross beam inside my guitar its stamped 0620, which I suppose is the production number. What does yours say?
            : : Dave 🙂

            1. Re: Ventura V-16
              Robert

              I have a V-16 purchased in 1977 serial # is 90873 says Designed in America , Crafted in Japan . Only 12 string I have ever owned, and it has seen a lot of use! – still stays in tune nice harmony. I have had a couple of musician friends tell me that they are impressed how good it sounds as the brandwas considered a "cheap guitar" ( I think paid about $175 for it new back then which was a lot of money to a 19 year old!)

            2. Re: Ventura V-16
              Robert

              I have a V-16 purchased in 1977 serial # is 90873 says Designed in America , Crafted in Japan . Only 12 string I have ever owned, and it has seen a lot of use! – still stays in tune nice harmony. I have had a couple of musician friends tell me that they are impressed how good it sounds as the brandwas considered a "cheap guitar" ( I think paid about $175 for it new back then which was a lot of money to a 19 year old!)

      2. Re: Ventura V-16
        Steven

        Hi Daniel,
        I have a Ventura V-16 12 string that I purchased in December 1969 from a guitar store in Bellingham, WA. The serial # is 41367. I hope this helps.

        1. Re: Ventura V-16
          Dave

          I have a VENTURA V-16 12 string that I bought in Dallas in 1973. I have always kept it tuned in D instead of E to save the stress on the neck. I have not played it in over five years & I took it out & it was still in great tune. Nice deep bass notes. Better than the Gibson I had before this & not as good as a great Guild I played once. Good tone as the Guild , but not quite the great action. Great "campfire" guitar.
          -Dave

          1. Re: Ventura V-16
            Dave

            : I have a VENTURA V-16 12 string that I bought in Dallas in 1973. I have always kept it tuned in D instead of E to save the stress on the neck. I have not played it in over five years & I took it out & it was still in great tune. Nice deep bass notes. Better than the Gibson I had before this & not as good as a great Guild I played once. Good tone as the Guild , but not quite the great action. Great "campfire" guitar.
            : -Dave

            I also own a Ventura V-16 (Serial #41363) which I bought from a friend back in 1972. I’ve always loved the sound of a 12 string, and it was my very first guitar. I replaced the tuning gears with mini-Shallers, everything else is original. I love its sound and wouldn’t part with it. Dave:)

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

      A few weeks ago I had my Ventura V-16 12 string guitar appraised (insurance stuff). I purchased this guitar in 1973, and have loved every year with it. Well, the guitar store appraised it at $550.00, and then offerd to buy it for a little more.

      1. Ventura V16 12 string
        Stacy Foster

        I just bought a Ventura Bruno V-16 12 string acoustic that I am pretty sure was built in 68. It has a very low serial#36058. The label is a very basic sticker with gold border designs. It simply reads, “VENTURA BRUNO. MODEL V-16 SERIAL 36058”

        Anyway, it is in excellent condition plays like a dream and has amazing tone and resonance. I am completely satisfied with it. It also came with hard case, old school Capo, extra bridge pegs, a set of strings And a George L’s hole pick up. Paid $150. Based on other 12 strings I’ve played this Ventura ranks with Martin & Gibson models. It’s well worth $500+

      2. Vetura Bruno 12 string.
        jd wayne

        I have a ventura Bruno 12 string model number D 12 – 35. Can anyone tell me how old this is and what it’s worth? Serial number 76980.

      3. Ventura Bruno V16 12 string
        T Fly

        Just bought this guitar this morning at a yard sale for $5 .
        Serial number is 52640 .
        It seems to be in decent shape other than missing the first 2 strings.
        I really don’t know a thing about it.
        If anyone can give me any info at all , I would appreciate it .
        Thanks Tim

      4. V-16
        Beachopper

        Scrolling forward a few years – In the UK I have bought one of these on Ebay for £80/$120 . Serial 91722.
        Open D to save the neck. Overall great condition, but top is showing very slight warping around the bridge.
        Even so – Love IT!

    1. Re: Wanted: Ventura V-13
      Robert Taylor ll

      : I’m looking for A V-13 in good shape that wants a new home. I know somebody out there’s got one for me. 8^)
      ——————————————————-
      I have one that my granddad give me it needs some work i took it in and the shop told me it will cost $150.00 to fix it but i want a whole lot more then that it has been in a case for 8 years i look at it all the time i never learned to play but i love the sound the v 13 makes offer me a good price and it is your’s remeber that it is A 1963 and is wouth alot of money.my grandpaw give $1200.00 for it back in the 1980 and played it Alot and now he is gone it is all i have left of him so to get it you will have to offer a good price

    2. Re: Wanted: Ventura V-13
      Wally

      : I’m looking for A V-13 in good shape that wants a new home. I know somebody out there’s got one for me. 8^)

      I have a V13 Ser# 54017 that has a few bumps and bruises on it but is in excellent playing condition. It has only been used for practise about 15 hrs.
      Cheers Wally!!

    3. Re: Wanted: Ventura V-13
      Tristan

      : I’m looking for A V-13 in good shape that wants a new home. I know somebody out there’s got one for me. 8^)

      I just bought a V-13. What can you guys tell me about it. I can’t find anythign about them on the net. Any information would be appreciated.

    4. Re: Wanted: Ventura V-13
      pontiak

      ill never sell my v-13!

      : I’m looking for A V-13 in good shape that wants a new home. I know somebody out there’s got one for me. 8^)

      1. Re: Wanted: Ventura V-13
        nick

        : ill never sell my v-13!

        : : I’m looking for A V-13 in good shape that wants a new home. I know somebody out there’s got one for me. 8^)

        i have a ventura v-13 its in pretty good condition and im looking to sell it because im broke lol but ill be willing to sell it for your best offer, but no lower than $500

    1. Re: Ventura ES-335
      gerald

      : I am looking for a Ventura Country Gentleman copy.
      Sometimes people list them as 335 copies. If anyone has the
      Country Gent copy for sale, contact me.

      thanks

      1. Re: Ventura ES-335
        kirk

        : : I am looking for a Ventura Country Gentleman copy.
        : Sometimes people list them as 335 copies. If anyone has the
        : Country Gent copy for sale, contact me.

        : thanks

        I have this guitar for sale if you are still looking. [email protected]

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