S&L MUSIC GEAR

We are a part time music store and open by appointment only,We mostly buy and sell bugetbrand and japanese stuff,Such as..Alamo,Danelectro,Guyatone,Harmony,Kay,Silvertone,Teisco,and other Japan and American made Guitars and Amps.We also do Appraisals and any information that we can help you with.

656 thoughts on “S&L MUSIC GEAR”

  1. checkmate g115
    Eric Wood

    My uncle who past away earlier this year left behind a checkmate model g115 guitar. My aunt tells me that he bought it for $300 20 years ago, the seller wanted $600 for it. Any information at all on this particular model, history, value, ect, would be greatly apreciated.

    1. Re: checkmate g115
      shay

      i have the same guitar at my home, it’s crap and it dosn’t worth even 20$ i got it as a present from friend that left the **** ry for good probebly. but enjoy from it as much as you can, one more guitar never can’t be a bed thing.

      1. Re: checkmate g115
        shay

        : i have the same guitar at my home, it’s crap and it dosn’t worth even 20$ i got it as a present from friend that left the **** ry for good probebly. but enjoy from it as much as you can, one more guitar never can’t be a bed thing.

    1. Re: Teisco Del Rey E-100 i think?
      John Odom

      : I have a beautiful Guitar. i bought it from a friend who inherited it from his grandpa. I dont see any serial numbers, but as far as i can tell from the internet it is a e-100 but a man in a pawn shop told me the fret board is made from brazilian oak? Inquire for photos, This is for sale. money talks!

      1. Re: Teisco Del Rey E-100 i think?
        Ken Hallion

        : : I have a beautiful Guitar. i bought it from a friend who inherited it from his grandpa. I dont see any serial numbers, but as far as i can tell from the internet it is a e-100 but a man in a pawn shop told me the fret board is made from brazilian oak? Inquire for photos, This is for sale. money talks!

        Please send a pic. I might be interested.

        1. Re: Teisco Del Rey E-100 i think?
          Vinny Carnevale

          I have one myself and I’m looking to see what price range it is, send me an e-mail for some info and a pic too, if you could.

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

      I have a beautiful. i bought it from a friend who inherited it from his grandpa. I dont see any serial numbers, but as far as i can tell from the internet it is a e-100 but a man in a pawn shop told me the fret board is made from brazilian oak? Inquire for photos, This is for sale. money talks!

    1. Re: Teisco EP-8T - tremelo bar
      raposo

      hi! I’m form Portugal and I have one (I’ve owned just yesterday). Well, i’ve this question?
      the 2 control pickups have, each one, 3 positions… can u tell me what for? usually the pickup controls have just 2 (on/off), so i just don’t understand…
      if u can help me, my e-mail is [email protected]

      thanks!!!

    2. Re: Teisco EP-8T - tremelo bar
      Joe

      :
      : Hello, what you have is a Teisco Del-Ray EP-8T. It was produced in the early 60’s around 1964 to 68 and sold at that time for about $29.99 to $39.99 You will find that the guitar is very well built and plays easy with a rockabilly type sound, Very very cool guitar. I recently also bought one on ebay and am waiting to receive it. You will enjoy that guitar. Hope this helps, Cheers! Joe….

        1. Re: Teisco EP-8T - tremelo bar
          ron rheinor

          : I currently own a Teisco EP-8T in near mint condition. How much do you think I could get for it if I were to sell it?

          I have seen them as high as 150.00 so maybe 200.00 tops for an mint condition? I have one I payed 150.00 in almost mint!!!

      1. Re: Teisco EP-8T - tremelo bar
        Eric Green

        : : Hey, I’ve had my guitar ever since I was about 8 or 9. My grandmas neighbor gave it to me before he died because he knew I wanted a guitar. I’ve done more harm than good to the thing over the years (nothing too severe) and now I want it to play right. I’ve taken the thing almost completely apart and now I want it to play well. The pickups sound bad and the switches seem to be really loose. Does anyone have any suggestions on what I can do. I also need a tremelo bar (it’s set up for one, must of gotten lost over the years). So, if anybody can help me I would really appreciate it. Thanks
        :

        1. Re: Teisco EP-8T - tremelo bar
          murry woods

          I too got the EP-8T when i was about 11yrs old in the early 70’s. traded a horse for it. got it from a musician boyfriend of my sisters who was making albums with jerry jeff and loggins and messina etc-he wanted the horse and i wanted the guitar–i have kept it for yrs as a keepsake and have lost the whammy bar as well through the years,probably not worth much but i have great memories of playing as a kid through an old radio converted to a guitar amp.

          i am currently finishing my 4th cd and have had some regional success and movie track mailbox money

          good luck to all

          http://www.murrywoods.com

        2. Re: Teisco EP-8T - tremelo bar
          Walt Cooper

          : : : Hey, I’ve had my guitar ever since I was about 8 or 9. My grandmas neighbor gave it to me before he died because he knew I wanted a guitar. I’ve done more harm than good to the thing over the years (nothing too severe) and now I want it to play right. I’ve taken the thing almost completely apart and now I want it to play well. The pickups sound bad and the switches seem to be really loose. Does anyone have any suggestions on what I can do. I also need a tremelo bar (it’s set up for one, must of gotten lost over the years). So, if anybody can help me I would really appreciate it. Thanks
          : :

          In my post, I listed my guitar as an EP8-1. That is a typo..
          It is an EP8-T. I do have the bar and removed it because of
          my Boys (youngsters at the time)and have misplaced the screw
          I don’t want to part with it as I love the guitar. Yours is
          the only other EP8-T I have ever heard of. Don’t think there
          are a lot of them around…..Thanks…..Walt.

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

      I just bought what I am pretty sure is a Teisco EP-8. If anyone can verify it for me, that’d be great.
      Also if anyone could help me acquire a tremelo bar that, too, would be most appreciated.
      To see pictures, check out :
      http://www.mindspring.com/[email protected]/guitars.html

      Here are some of it’s features:
      Slimline hollowbody electric
      This guitar is as light as a feather.
      2 white and gray marbleized pickguards.
      2 single coil pickups (fantasitic sound)
      Volume, tone, and 2 pickup controls on lower bout.
      Tremelo bar is missing. (help me find one please).
      Nameplate is missing (you can see the glue though).
      It’s red with black outline (sorta sunburst but only red and black)
      Tailpiece looks like a "V", not the fancy lyre shaped one.

      This is one really cool guitar. Light. Nice acoustic sound. When plugged in it has a dynamite twanginess. It’s super clean sounding. With my amp’s reverb on this ax just keeps on re-re-re-re-verbing.

      Not bad for $75 bucks.
      It was so cheap, I’m sure, because it wasn’t sold as a Teisco.
      It took some research on my part to figure that out once it arrived.

      Cheers,
      Bruce

      1. Teisco EP-8T parts
        Trestar

        I have the 8T and need some pars to make her sing again.
        Tremelo spring and bolt, roller bridge, and head nut.

        Please let me know if you have or know where to find.
        Thanx

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

      I purchased this guitar at a thrift store for $25.00. Everything on it looks original except for the finish which is sort of a botched gold sparkle nightmare! The only problem I have is that the wiring seems to be screwed up. The pickups won’t ‘grab’ any sound unless the strings are in direct contact w/the pickups. Is this a pickup issue or wiring? Any help would be GREATLY appreciated as would wiring schematics so I can check the wiring. It looks like the electronics have been fiddled with and I’d like to check it just to be sure. I’ve been sent to various websites but none could help. Thank you again!

  2. teisco checkmate 100
    m-j

    Hi,
    we have an Checkmate 100 which needs some work. And for those we looking for the schematics of wiring of these amp (it is only a top `not the combo version) Please could you help me with this plan ?
    Thanks a lot

    M-J

    1. Re: teisco checkmate 100
      Ken Fox

      I have a Checkmate 100 schemtaic. I have alos submitted it today to Schematic Heaven. Send your email address and I will send a PDF file

        1. Re: teisco checkmate 100
          matteo

          : please send me :
          : [email protected]
          : thanks!
          HI CAN YOU SEND ME THE SCHEMATIC
          FOR TEISCO CHECKMATE 100?
          THANKS
          MATTEO

          : : I have a Checkmate 100 schemtaic. I have alos submitted it today to Schematic Heaven. Send your email address and I will send a PDF file

  3. UNKNOWN CAMEO GUITAR
    Kris

    Hello. I was given a Cameo brand guitar by my mom. She said that she got it in the 60s or 70s, but can’t remember exactly when. I know absolutely nothing about guitars, so I’m sorry if the description makes no sense… It’s an acoustic 6-string for a righty with a very interesting design around the hole. The front of the body is a medium brown wood and the sides and the back are a very dark brown wood. The top of the neck is plain black, nothing fancy, and says "Cameo" in fancy gold letters. I hope someone can help me becuase I am very curious about this guitar. Thanks 🙂

      1. Re: UNKNOWN CAMEO GUITAR
        GTOROCKZ

        : Just found a bad ass Cameo Deluxe SG style electric, seems like it must have been expensive back in the late 1960, neck inlays, dual humbuckers, Bigsby style trem with roller bridge and its metallic red! I dont know who made it but says made in japan.
        : yea i just picked up the same guitar and i have no clue about it

            1. Re: UNKNOWN CAMEO GUITAR
              Ashlee E.

              I have a black Les Paul look-a-like that is a Cameo. The guy I bought it from said that it was Korean made but that is all I can find out.

  4. I have a Strat-style solid-body that has been refinished with an oval (gold/red plastic) Teisco plate on it. I bought it off of eBay because I beleived it to be a rare Teisco. It has:

    4 Pickups
    4 Vol + 1 Tone
    4 On/off rocker switches
    Whammy bar

    Any help..interest? I send pics. Emailme at [email protected]

    1. Re: Teisco?
      Dave

      : I have a Strat-style solid-body that has been refinished with an oval (gold/red plastic) Teisco plate on it. I bought it off of eBay because I beleived it to be a rare Teisco. It has:

      : 4 Pickups
      : 4 Vol + 1 Tone
      : 4 On/off rocker switches
      : Whammy bar

      : Any help..interest? I send pics. Emailme at [email protected]

      man! i’ve got something that sounds exactly the same as that and i’ve never been able to even locate a picture of the one i have online, send me thoes pics , very interested to see if it’s similar.

  5. Fender ET-200 project
    Wesley Hardin

    Hey everyone! Thanks for taking the time to check out my little blip here. Well, ya see, I just picked up this real sweet, but in very poor condition, Fender ET-200 at a local tag sale. If anyone has any kind of information or schematics for this particular guitar please let me know. Also, if anyone has any tips on restoring guitars that stuff would also be very helpful. Thanx again!

  6. Apollo 12-string
    EEK3

    I have a 12-string guitar I bought in a pawn shop around 1967 with the label Apollo. I am interested in the history of this brand. Anyone with any information?

    1. Re: I NEED TO FIND WIREING SCHEMATIC FOR MY TEISCO E-110
      iliacus1

      : I’m looking for the wireing schematic for my e-110, right now my wires are shot and i need to redo them all.

      1. Re: I NEED TO FIND WIREING SCHEMATIC FOR MY TEISCO E-110
        leeola

        : : I’m looking for the wireing schematic for my e-110, right now my wires are shot and i need to redo them all.

        I just rewired my e-110 using a schematic for a fender tele single coil pickup from 1959. the only wire that you do not use from the e-110 is the tailpiece grounding wire. This wire will cause enormous feed back.

    2. Re: I NEED TO FIND WIREING SCHEMATIC FOR MY TEISCO E-110
      kyle plimack

      I dont have a schematic, but I just bought this guitar and for $50, i know a really good guy that shimed and realigned the neck and replaced all the wiring and comonents and it sounds great. send me an email if you want his contact info.

    3. Re: I NEED TO FIND WIREING SCHEMATIC FOR MY TEISCO E-110
      leeola

      : I’m looking for the wireing schematic for my e-110, right now my wires are shot and i need to redo them all.

      Hey dude! I have an E-110 and just refurbished the wiring and made my own schematic…when I get to a scanner I will send a copy to you, if you haven’t already found one.
      How’s that!? :}

    1. Re: Vitar Lap Steel
      Mike Landers

      : Dear Sir,
      : I have a Vitar Lap Steel Guitar, in mint condition, with a Vitar amp to accompany it.The covering on the guitar case matches the covering on the amp.
      : I would like to determine the value of the set. The original bar is with it, as well.
      : Can you help me or, direct me to a source?
      : Thank You,
      : Mike Landers

      1. Re: Vitar Lap Steel
        Greg

        Hi there,
        I also own a Vitar Laptsteel Guitar with serial number 4559X. I also have a catalogue with a picture of the Vitar from ‘Rhode Island Music Company’ dated 1939.. Although I’ve searched and searched I have not been able to find any information about this model of guitar online.
        Are you able to provide me with any leads on how to gather more information on Vitar?
        Your time and assistance is greatly appreciated."

    2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Michael R. Landers
      Michael R. Landers

      Dear Sir,
      I have a Vitar Lap Steel Guitar, in mint condition, with a Vitar amp to accompany it.The covering on the guitar case matches the covering on the amp.
      I would like to determine the value of the set. The original bar is with it, as well.
      Can you help me or, direct me to a source?
      Thank You,
      Mike Landers

  7. Heit Delux Neck Installation
    Eddie Winchester

    A Hiet Delux guitar I recently bought from Ebay has a metal spacer installed between the neck and the body. This spacer extends about 1/2-inch past the neck pocket and is attached to the neck with two screws and washers. The spacer has four holes to allow passage of the four screws holding the neck to the body. Is this a normal installation? I would appreciate any feedback.

  8. Checkmate 12-string
    monteC

    I just picked up a musty old Checkmate 12-string at a yard sale for $10. It had 4 strings on it and with its trapeze bridge and cheesy tuners, I doubted its play ability. I strung it, tuned it, tuned it, tuned it, played some, tuned, tuned, tuned, etc.

    Anyway, it sounds and plays and looks great! Happy camper here.

    What’s the history on these? Should they be tuned lower than standard pitch?

    I’ll check back, got to go tune some more.

  9. Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
    Chuck Hobson

    I just bought this amp head (all tube, two 6L6s, reverb/trem etc), it’s great, but I’d like to find a schematic and/or manual that somebody could copy for me. Or at least: can somebody tell me what the knob is inside the amp, next to the tube rectifier??? And what speaker load is the amp designed for? Thanks and cheers,

    Chuck

    1. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
      randy

      : I just bought this amp head (all tube, two 6L6s, reverb/trem etc), it’s great, but I’d like to find a schematic and/or manual that somebody could copy for me. Or at least: can somebody tell me what the knob is inside the amp, next to the tube rectifier??? And what speaker load is the amp designed for? Thanks and cheers,

      : Chuck
      bious -37 volts stops the lamp from terning red and overheating. and have schematic i still use the amp for work in club.

    2. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
      Stefan

      Hello Checkmate comunity,

      i also own a checkmate 50 and I found a schematic inside. It will be posted to schematic heaven, where you will find it in "bargain bin" section shortly.
      I do not understand what function and how many positions the (rotational-) mainswitch has.
      Can anybody tell me what position works witch what function? Thank you very much, Stefan

    3. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
      louiege

      : I just bought this amp head (all tube, two 6L6s, reverb/trem etc), it’s great, but I’d like to find a schematic and/or manual that somebody could copy for me. Or at least: can somebody tell me what the knob is inside the amp, next to the tube rectifier??? And what speaker load is the amp designed for? Thanks and cheers,

      : Chuck
      did you ever find the speaker load. the best I came up with is 4 ohm

    4. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
      Ruben Lara

      :Hello there, the knob which is inside is 5kohms and is the bias pot, should deliber 45 volts to each 6L6. and for the schematic I can not help you, I need it to if you find it, plesae let me know too. Ruben

      1. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
        randy viau

        : Hi there Chuck, I have just obtained the same amp as you from a friend, but it is not in working order, i’m currently as we speak actually trying to rebias it, I have no idea where to get the schematics but of I do I will scan it for you and email it to you.

        see http://www.schematicheaven.com
        bios is -37 pin 6 on 6L6gc tubes

      2. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
        Rich

        For all looking for info on the Checkmate 50 it is rated a 100w per channel and originaly had 2- 15" Pioneer speakers, hooked in parallel giving it a 4 ohm impedence,as to a schmatic I do have one contact me by e-mail and see if we can work something out

        1. Checkmate 50 schematic
          John Goins

          I saw your old post on this web site. I have a Checkmate 50 and also a schematic, but I don’t think the schematic is original. I would like to get another schematic to check against the one I have. My Checkmate has been repaired several times and I’m going through it to restore and upgrade it. Some of the repairs were “Workarounds” by technicians who either couldn’t get the right replacement parts, or wanted to experiment with modifications. I’m in the process of replacing all the capacitors and potentiometers at present and will retube it. i’m also looking at upgrading the reverb tank (terrible sounding original tank) and changing the 6AQ8 currently driving the tremolo circuit to a more easily available tube. I hope this address is still current.

          John Goins

            1. Teisco Checkmate 50
              John Goins

              I found several sources for the 6AQ8/ECC85 tube, so I didn’t have to change it, U$D15.00 and up for NOS. The amp was retubed, re-capped and cleaned or replaced all pots and switches and works great. I still haven’t replaced the reverb tank, but they’re available from lots of sources. If you just Google “Teisco Checkmate 50 schematic” it will show several free websites to download a schematic, but I’ve never found an original one. It’s tone is clean 60’s Fender clone.

              1. Checkmate 50
                Dave

                Thanks for the quick reply, I have one other question, is the output impedance 8 ohms? I read the original cab had two 15″s, but some say they were 16 and some 8 ohm, for a total of 8/4 ohms total respectively. I was very happy to find this but just got the head, so I’m looking to buy or build a cab. I was thinking of seing if I could find a long spring reverb tank that was compatible. I am also missing the upper face plate/vent cover, so I’ll have to build a repro, don’t think I’ll find one used. Seems to work and sound pretty nice though…I’m a huge fan of the 6L6 fender sound, just don’t like lugging those heavy combos around.

                1. Teisco Checkmate 50
                  John Goins

                  There were different versions of the Checkmate 50, but I believe all were 8 Ohm output. The most common was a separate head with 2 x15″ Pioneer 16 Ohm speakers in parallel. bit I have also heard of 2 x 4 Ohm speakers in series. There were also versions with 2 x 12″ speakers.

                  The reverb circuit drives the springs directly from a 12AX7 with no transformer. I tried one larger tank without success because it didn’t match the impedance of the original tank. I know you can roughly match the impedances by measuring the DC resistance across the drive and output coils and looking that info up on a cross reference to get a recommended substitute from Accutronics. I just haven’t gotten around to doing it. I don’t use the reverb much, but it does sound really muddy when I do.

      3. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
        Robert Rex

        : Hi my dad has a checkmate 50 amp in working order and he was wondering if anyone could tell him what the value of it would be. I’ll check with him to see if he has the schematics

      4. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp info
        Therm

        Well, I’ve just got one, too. I’ll draw up a schematic for it, and see what I can ‘suss out’. I’ve seen a site that said this amp used two 15" speakers. If anyone else has found something, let me know. (may take awhile as I’m currently moving). :T

        1. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp info
          olivier

          : Well, I’ve just got one, too. I’ll draw up a schematic for it, and see what I can ‘suss out’. I’ve seen a site that said this amp used two 15" speakers. If anyone else has found something, let me know. (may take awhile as I’m currently moving). :T

          Hy, My name’s Olivier. I’m From France. I have a checkmate 50 Teisco with shématic électonic. But I don’i speak english

      5. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
        juan pablo

        HI!
        i{m form venezuela I have a checkmate 50 teisco…but is broken…I need the map or squematics as you said in order to fix it!…anyone can help me????

        1. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
          leo

          : HI!
          : i{m form venezuela I have a checkmate 50 teisco…but is broken…I need the map or squematics as you said in order to fix it!…anyone can help me????

          Hi there, ihave checkmate 50 teisco and need electrical diagram, anybody can halp me?

          1. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
            jesus oliveros

            : : HI!
            : : i{m from venezuela I have a checkmate 50 teisco…but is broken…I need the map or squematics as you said in order to fix it!…anyone can help me????

            :
            : Hi there, ihave checkmate 50 teisco and need electrical diagram, anybody can halp me?

        2. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
          M-J

          i `ve got a checkmate 100 and need also the schematics, perhabs it is simular to the 50`s model ?
          anyone can help

        3. Re: Teisco Checkmate 50 amp: info wanted
          Tornillo

          Hi! Bro I’m from Venezuela to… I have a Teisco Checkmate, and I’ve been looking for its map/Schematics; my be we can work together. Please Contactame Pana!!

      6. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Louis vorster
        Louis vorster

        Hi there Chuck, I have just obtained the same amp as you from a friend, but it is not in working order, i’m currently as we speak actually trying to rebias it, I have no idea where to get the schematics but of I do I will scan it for you and email it to you.

        1. teisco checkmate 50 schematic please!
          tobahc

          Hi, I too have a Teisco Checkmate 50 guitar amp. The guy I bought it from said it worked perfectly and was all original, I had no way to test it since we both drove to meet each to make the sale because we lived very far apart. I bought it only to get home and find out its definitely got some issues. Its not very loud, and the sound is all fuzzy and unclear even at low volumes. The guitar sound still plays when the switch is on stand by, the tremelo goes in and out and takes a minute to fully come on, etc.. Anyways, I would really appreciate it if someone has a schematic they can share with me cause I just took it to a vintage guitar repair guy and he wont touch it without a schematic. If anyone has one can you please email me at [email protected]

            1. TEISCO 50 SCHEMATIC
              NAT

              Hello
              I was reading a post that says you have a schematic diagram for a TEISCO 50 SOLID STATE

              I’m working on a TEISCO SCAP 202

              any diagrams may have some similarities

              If you still have the schematic won’t you be so kind as to send me a copy please it will be appreciated

              Kind regards Nat
              Cape Town
              South Africa

  10. Teisco/Kawai tuning machine needs
    Aleksey

    Hello,
    I looking for replaicement of tuning machine formy Teisco/Kawai. Heads os open (like on classical guitar) 6 in one line one piece. This is standard tuning machine for Teisco 60’s. If somebody knows where to buy/ order will greately appreciate!
    Thanks
    Aleksey

  11. Looking for used Chkmate 50 head
    Silvertrip216

    Hey all looking for a chkmate 50 or higher.Wouls sound nice with my delray and superfuzz.Gotta be in good woking shape and not too much man..lets be real here!!Any info on where,who,how and why would be great.

    Thanks
    Silver

      1. Checkmate G155
        Deb

        I have one as well. Did u get any info on it? My brother had it for 45 yrs and I didn’t know it. Anyway he gave it back to me yesterday. Thank you

    1. Re: Looking for used Chkmate 50 head
      jeanie dunlap

      : Hey all looking for a chkmate 50 or higher.Wouls sound nice with my delray and superfuzz.Gotta be in good woking shape and not too much man..lets be real here!!Any info on where,who,how and why would be great.

      : Thanks
      : Silver

      1. Re: Looking for used Chkmate 50 head // 60
        Tory

        : :Hi i have a chekmate 60 all valve head 2 channel Reverb,Tremelo in very good condition all valves are near new ,hardly used. interested ?

        Hey all looking for a chkmate 50 or higher.Wouls sound nice with my delray and superfuzz.Gotta be in good woking shape and not too much man..lets be real here!!Any info on where,who,how and why would be great.

        : : Thanks
        : : Silver

        1. Re: selling Checkmate 60 head
          Tory

          : : :Hi i have a chekmate 60 all valve head 2 channel Reverb,Tremelo in very good condition all valves are near new ,hardly used. interested ?

          : Hey all looking for a chkmate 50 or higher.Wouls sound nice with my delray and superfuzz.Gotta be in good woking shape and not too much man..lets be real here!!Any info on where,who,how and why would be great.

          : : : Thanks
          : : : Silver

      2. Re: Looking for used Chkmate 50 head //
        Tory

        : :Hi i have a chekmate 60 all valve head 2 channel Reverb,Tremelo in very good condition all valves are near new ,hardly used. interested ?

        Hey all looking for a chkmate 50 or higher.Wouls sound nice with my delray and superfuzz.Gotta be in good woking shape and not too much man..lets be real here!!Any info on where,who,how and why would be great.

        : : Thanks
        : : Silver

    1. I own a Fresher Straighter Protean Series
      Jean

      And I’m living in Aix-en-Provence (France).
      Great guitar, IMHO
      Bought it in 1989 (second hand), for $200.

      1. Re: I own a Fresher Straighter Protean Series
        cyrille

        : And I’m living in Aix-en-Provence (France).
        : Great guitar, IMHO
        : Bought it in 1989 (second hand), for $200.

        Salut Jean,
        Je viens d’en acquérir une moi-même, merci de me faire signe si tu suis toujours ce post car ca date un peu.
        Au plaisir de discuter ensemble!
        Cyrille

      2. Re: I own a Fresher Straighter Protean Series too!!! (i think i was alone..)
        raul

        I got it in 1983, with auto wah, phaser and distortion and pre-amp incorporated. I live in Argentina, this guitar was brought up from Canada.

    2. Re: "Fresher" Brand guitar
      Marty

      :
      Actually I had to look into that for you..the guitarist that played in the James Brown band that used a Fresher straighter was Jimmy Nolen..

    3. Re: "Fresher" Brand guitar
      Marty

      Hi!….There was an electric guitar waiting for me before I was born..at the age of 8 I picked it up!..it was a Fresher Straighter(protein series) they called it…nice playing guitar/craftmanship..I’ve been playing guitar for 14 years now…I play mainly a american made Strat…this same fresher straighter was actually played by a guitarist from the James Brown band…he liked it for the built in effects especially the auto/wha wich sound better then any other auto/wha’s that I have played..the built in sustain on the guitar sounds great if you’re into crunchy tones while your amp is fully juiced up…much like an old fuzz box!…the phazer also sounds great…and all three effects can be combined or bypassed…I myself never done modifications to this guitar for the simple fact that it is now a vintage instrument and like we all know they are best kept fully original..as for the value of these instruments as one mentioned..this Fresher Straighter was bought brand new through a Fender Dealer (no longer exists)in Kapuskasing Ontario Canada in 1977 and was bought for 1300$ Canadian at the time!..as for what they are worth now, all I could say is that this is one heck of a beautifuly crafted instrumen..it’s a dark cherry finish see thru wood grain, maple neck/rosewood fingerboard, perfectely polished frets, fat head stock much like the early 70’s strat (two piece head stock),black/white/black pickguard in the shape of a bird!(dove), the electronics use 6AA batteries, string thru the body design, 5 way swich, 1 volume/tone bypass,1 volume/tone effects..as for what it’s worth?..this guitar will be kept in the family no matter what and will be past on to my son Jared who seems to be musicaly inclined as well..:) and ….just so you keep in mind….they offer realy good money ( 20.000$ ) for a Stradivarious copy!!…how much will they offer for these 40-60 years down the line?…think even after 100 years!!!..you might want to be greedy now and take what you can get for it!..but remember like the article said..they have no proof that these were imported into america and are rare to find! how many people do you know that owns Fenders?….
      catcha later!
      Marty

      1. fresher straighter protean series
        jamesfresherstraighter

        i bought my first guitar in 1991 it was used and i love it, i still have it but it needs some TLC it won’t tune up true, the saddles won’t adjust enough, but i can’t find another guitar with the action or sound of my Fresher Straighter Protean Series its Red. with a Black face plate it has, 3 Effects,AUTO WHA,PHASE and SASTAIN A RoseWood fingerboard its so beautiful to look at and to play i wish i could find parts! i payed only $300.00 then but i wouldn’t sell it for all the money in the world. i wrote my first song on it, and even named her ROSE

  12. 12 string teisco
    seth revilla

    I have a 12 string solid body 2 pickup 2 switches and a whammy bar. Seems solid.. need more info..anyone? thanks. oh.. has the white teisco on crown name plate.

    1. Re: Alamo Capri amp
      Eric

      : Anybody have a schematic for the Alamo capri amp circa 1967?

      Did you find a schematic for this amp yet? I need one, too.

      Thanks,
      Eric

    1. Re: Unknow guitar
      Dr Zot

      Hi there – not fast feedback but Teisco Gengakki (translates as "Teisco String Instrument Co") made these in the late 60s and most are seen with the "Excetro" brand on the headstock and "bigsby". Kind of a Fender Tele Thinline copy without the F-hole. I have one (in Lake Placid Blue) and its a great guitar – lightweight, resonan, spanky p’ups and smooth neck. Probably worth about $300US in good cond?
      Cheers
      Dr Zot

      God bless Planet Earth

    2. Re: Unknow guitar
      Lorne (via moderator)

      On a good day the guitar may fetch $200 US… It probably sounds great as these were blues workhorses BUt thousands were produced

      : Need fast help please !
      : I own a guitar that the logo on the headsok have been erase, but on the metal neck plate there is this an inscription: Teisco Gengakki.kk , I’ve bought this guitar on 1969 and it’s a telecaster copy. The guitar is absolutly original, no parts have been changed.

      : Hope in your help to know what it is to help me put a value on it.

      : Thanks a lot to all of you.

      : God bless America

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

      Need fast help please !
      I own a guitar that the logo on the headsok have been erase, but on the metal neck plate there is this an inscription: Teisco Gengakki.kk , I’ve bought this guitar on 1969 and it’s a telecaster copy. The guitar is absolutly original, no parts have been changed.

      Hope in your help to know what it is to help me put a value on it.

      Thanks a lot to all of you.

      God bless America

      1. unknown brand guitar but looks like a teisco
        Joe

        I bought a guitar it looks like a teisco, it says made in Japan but that’s all I could find, I could send you a picture if possible

  13. Need switch modifications
    Richard Owens

    I had to modify this Teisco in order to get the pickups to fit in line with the neck but I need to modify the switch to and don’t know how to wire it. The guitar has two volumes and two tones or three volumes and one tone how ever it’s wired. It has three seperate switches but would like to wire it up with a five way or three seperate switches lol.

  14. how much is it really worth?
    jeremiah johnson

    hello
    i was just wondering if you could tell me how much my guitar is worth,
    it a teisco et 200. i dont know when it was perchused, but i do
    know that it was my grandpas so if you could please let me know thanx jeremiah

  15. Teisco E-100 bridge (et al)
    Kenny

    I am going to be restoring my E-100, and I need a replacement bridge, one of the white washers that go around the tuning peg, and volume knob.

    Please e-mail me any time if you have any of these parts. Thanks.

    1. Re: Teisco E-100 bridge (et al)
      Dave Stygler

      Yes I have this guitar but you cant have any of my parts.I love my guitar.It was giving to me.Its not perfect but it works and for being over 30 years of age i love it.

    1. Re: Teisco ET-440
      David Starkey

      : i have a ’69 Teisco ET-440 Spectrum 4 that i would like some info on. also what it’s worth. thanks. I have bought and sold Teisco and I would say around $200 to $400

  16. Checkmate Guitar
    Wanda Hindmon

    I was just wanting to know more about this particular guitar. It was my Dad’s and it is a Cherry color trim, with gold inside, and has a black looking patch with a gold monogramed look inside it. All it says on it, is Checkmate. I cannot find any numbers or anything on it. Any help would be appreciated! Thank you, Wanda

    1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
      charles eichacker

      well i dont know if anyone even looks here anymore but its 2007 and i found your forum, i have a checkmate electric guitar from 1970 it is model number et-200 and i would like any info that i can find

    2. Re: Checkmate Guitar
      FRANK

      In about 1978, I bought a Checkmate guitar from "Clark Drugs" drugstore, model G230. same logo as yours, also cherry red with fancy pick guards. Still have it. Don’t know much else. Also recently bought another Checkmate but natural finish. Found it in a newspaper ad. The guy I bought it from didn’t know much about it. Not the greatest guitars but lots of fun.

    3. Re: Checkmate Guitar
      Mike

      I had one in the early 70’s, it was purchased at Sears or JC Penny. These are/were cheap guitars but they work.
      I seem to remember about a 30 dollar price tag in the Sears catalog. I was 8 years old; it was one of the best Christmas presents I ever got!

      1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        Becki johnson

        : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G145. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :

        1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
          Gene Kelly

          I have a checkmate guitar, G500, double pick guards, it was purchased in 1972, still in great condition, does anyone know what it might be worth. I can be contacted at 810-624-2889. :

      2. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        Brandon

        Hello,
        I have one of these old Checkmate guiatars and want to sell it. If you or anyone is interested, let me know and we can work something out.
        Brandon

      3. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        Brenda Sutton

        : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G145. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :

        I also have a Checkmate Guitar with the Crown and Model No G145. Can anyone tell me it’s worth?

        1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
          Jolishippo

          I too have a Checkmate Guitar G145, although the G and the 5 are barely visible. It has been sitting in my friends apt. since forever and every-time I see her I go over, pick it up and as I get ready to play it, I notice there is a string missing. I ALWAYS (past 25 years) say to myself ‘Oh Yeah…This guitar needs a string, I will re-string it for her’ THEN I notice that the bridge is barely on. It looks like the bridge has been applied with a hot glue gun and is hanging from a dried wispy end of glue-lol. So, I am going to take it to my FAVORITE and ONLY Guitar shop that I do business with, GIACOLETTIS in Carlsbad, CA. and have my buddy Roy check it out. He will probably be able to fix the bridge and re-string it. That will probably cost me more than the Guitar is worth but I like the way this Guitar looks and Roy knows how I like the action on my guitars so I will be able to use it. From my research I have learned that it was made in Korea and isn’t the finest guitar ever made. It looks like they sell (I have only seen them sold in auction type places ie: Craigslist, Ebay…etc.) for under $ 200.00. Hope that helps.

          Putting Him First in My Life,
          Jo Ellen

          : : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G145. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :

          : I also have a Checkmate Guitar with the Crown and Model No G145. Can anyone tell me it’s worth?

      4. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        James L. Drinkwater

        Hello, I’m James. I do have a Checkmate Folk Guitar. The Checkmate Logo is posted at the front top. Also, This guitar on the top rear says made in Korea, and not Japan. The model is G500. Real nice roses on the front base part. Excellent shape, and E-Mail me if interested. Just wish I could play it. Thanks. James Or call me at 1-269-639-8135.

      5. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        Shuhrat

        : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G-265. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :

      6. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        John

        I have a Checkmate as well. Model #G145, 6-string Acoustic, Dreadnaught body, pick gaurd has a butterfly, hummingbird, and some flowers on it. Bought it off my cousin for $15 I think when we moved to CA in the late 70’s. Not sure how long she had it or if she knows where she got it from. Will follow up on that thought. It’s a decent sounding guitar and I’ve put it thru hell but I always keep it around.

      7. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        John

        I have a Checkmate as well. Model #G145, 6-string Acoustic, Dreadnaught body, pick gaurd has a butterfly, hummingbird, and some flowers on it. Bought it off my cousin for $15 I think when we moved to CA in the late 70’s. Not sure how long she had it or if she knows where she got it from. Will follow up on that thought. It’s a decent sounding guitar and I’ve put it thru hell but I always keep it around.

      8. Re: Checkmate Guitar G135 model no any good shape
        stephen

        g135 model number by checkmate I don’t no know the year looks old good shape has a pick gaurd with birds and butterflys ? if that helps I’m willing to get rid off it no use to me just a dust keeper to me

      9. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        Billy

        These old Japanese guitars may look low end but i have one from the mid 70s that was recently apraised at over 2000$ it has sentimental value to my mother so i will not sell but dont let looks fool you Checkmate is a quality brand

        1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
          mike

          I noticed Checkmate used the crown logo, which was VERY similar to the old Teisco logo. Teisco (tokyo electronic and instrument conmpany) made budget electric guitars in the 60’s and 70’s in Japan, and then for a while in China. I have a Chinese version that has been appraised at $300. I hope your checkmate is worth something too.

      10. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        librarydeb

        also, can anyone explain why a checkmate g 245 would sell for $237 on ebay? it does have pretty zebra-like striping. would that be what drives it up so much?

        here is description from ebay listing:

        "This is an old Checkmate Acoustic Guitar in almost mint condition. I don’t know what kind of wood this is, but it looks like zebra wood on the back and sides. The top looks like Spruce. The neck looks like Maple. It has a stamp inside the sound hole on a brace that shows 46.9.28. I could not find a serial number. The model number is G 245. It has a metal name plate on the head stock. It has a truss rod and the neck is very straight. There are MOP inlay markers on the fret board. There are no cracks, seperations, chips, or dings on it. There is no bowing anywhere. It has made in Japan on the label in the sound hole. I put a set of Elixir light strings on it and it has an awesome sound and low action. There is very little fret wear at all. Hasn’t been played much. Someone took really good care of this guitar. The saddle is adjustable. This guitar measures 39 1/2" L X 14 1/4" W X 4 1/4"D. I will include a cardboard case with the guitar. It has several nicks and scars but will protect the guitar really well. This must have been one of the Checkmate high end guitars.(Don’t know for sure). This will make someone a great collectible. This is one awesome looking instrument. Check out the pictures and if you have any questions please contact me and I will get back to you. Thanks for being interested. "

        This is an old Checkmate Acoustic Guitar in almost mint condition. I don’t know what kind of wood this is, but it looks like zebra wood on the back and sides. The top looks like Spruce. The neck looks like Maple. It has a stamp inside the sound hole on a brace that shows 46.9.28. I could not find a serial number. The model number is G 245. It has a metal name plate on the head stock. It has a truss rod and the neck is very straight. There are MOP inlay markers on the fret board. There are no cracks, seperations, chips, or dings on it. There is no bowing anywhere. It has made in Japan on the label in the sound hole. I put a set of Elixir light strings on it and it has an awesome sound and low action. There is very little fret wear at all. Hasn’t been played much. Someone took really good care of this guitar. The saddle is adjustable. This guitar measures 39 1/2" L X 14 1/4" W X 4 1/4"D. I will include a cardboard case with the guitar. It has several nicks and scars but will protect the guitar really well. This must have been one of the Checkmate high end guitars.(Don’t know for sure). This will make someone a great collectible. This is one awesome looking instrument. Check out the pictures and if you have any questions please contact me and I will get back to you. Thanks for being interested.
        This is an old Checkmate Acoustic Guitar in almost mint condition. I don’t know what kind of wood this is, but it looks like zebra wood on the back and sides. The top looks like Spruce. The neck looks like Maple. It has a stamp inside the sound hole on a brace that shows 46.9.28. I could not find a serial number. The model number is G 245. It has a metal name plate on the head stock. It has a truss rod and the neck is very straight. There are MOP inlay markers on the fret board. There are no cracks, seperations, chips, or dings on it. There is no bowing anywhere. It has made in Japan on the label in the sound hole. I put a set of Elixir light strings on it and it has an awesome sound and low action. There is very little fret wear at all. Hasn’t been played much. Someone took really good care of this guitar. The saddle is adjustable. This guitar measures 39 1/2" L X 14 1/4" W X 4 1/4"D. I will include a cardboard case with the guitar. It has several nicks and scars but will protect the guitar really well. This must have been one of the Checkmate high end guitars.(Don’t know for sure). This will make someone a great collectible. This is one awesome looking instrument. Check out the pictures and if you have any questions please contact me and I will get back to you. Thanks for being interested.

      11. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        roge1

        : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G145. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :
        i have one too and mine is made in korea and the model number is G500 if thats of any help

        1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
          J. Turner

          :
          : : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G145. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :
          : i have one too and mine is made in korea and the model number is G500 if thats of any help

          1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
            Bobby

            : :
            : : : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G145. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :
            : : i have one too and mine is made in korea and the model number is G500 if thats of any help

            I have an accoustic Checkmate G500 or G300 with the metal emblem Blue and silver crown with red lettering (Check mate) accross it. Inside there is a label that gives the name model number as either G300 or G500 (can"t really tell as the top half of the first digit has faded and says made in Japan. I would really like to find out more about this guitar. ???????

            1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
              melody

              : : :
              : : : : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G145. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :
              : : : i have one too and mine is made in korea and the model number is G500 if thats of any help

              : I have an accoustic Checkmate G500 or G300 with the metal emblem Blue and silver crown with red lettering (Check mate) accross it. Inside there is a label that gives the name model number as either G300 or G500 (can"t really tell as the top half of the first digit has faded and says made in Japan. I would really like to find out more about this guitar. ???????

              I have a Checkmate G135 with a hummingbird pick guard. The sound is phenominal. It was purchased in the early 70s, but I can’t find anything out about it except that it might be a teisco. Any info?

          2. Re: Checkmate Guitar
            J. Turner

            : :
            : I, too, discovered a Checkmate guitar in my deceased brother’s belongings. It also is a model G500. Can anyone tell me more?

      12. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        rayburn

        i have a g-116 checkmate….they are most likely from sears in the 1970’s. mine has a circle ink stamp inside to the left of neck and reads M B F and the model sticker g-116. most of these are worthless unless a collector finds a model they are missing. worth keeping these though. my model might be worth $15, as for most..

        1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
          Christine

          I have what looks like a cheap guitar with "G145" on a little tag on the inside. The uh… head something (sorry, I obviously know nothing about guitars) has a "Del Rey" emblem with a little crown. It has a little Black-with-white-drawings plastic panel that seems like it is trying to look like an engraved panel. I got it with a case at the thrift store for 50$ and I suspect I might have paid too much. I am sure it is a low-end guitar, but it is for my husband to start learning on, so it’s not like we needed a top-of-the-line guitar. Anyone know anything about such a guitar? I can’t find anything online. Thanks for whatever help you can give me.

          : i have a g-116 checkmate….they are most likely from sears in the 1970’s. mine has a circle ink stamp inside to the left of neck and reads M B F and the model sticker g-116. most of these are worthless unless a collector finds a model they are missing. worth keeping these though. my model might be worth $15, as for most..

      13. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        Melissa

        : I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown at the top, I got it like a year ago. I realize that this topic was posted 2 years ago, but I would also like to know more about these guitars, cause I have never heard of it until I got it from a friends of my father’s. It’s also a g154 model, all they all the same models?

        1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
          john polston

          have a checkmate guitar model g300, is an acoustic with double pick guards. looks like maple neck and body is a black, green tint, and is approximately 30 years old. girlfriends father bought new for fifty bucks in oklahoma. made in japan.

          1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
            Donna

            Ditto here!!!! I have my father’s old Checkmate model G300. I have no idea where he got it, although it’s most likely that he bought it in Texas. What are these worth???

      14. About a Checkmate guitar...
        Chris

        I have a Checkmate guitar, model G145. I hear that it is a cheap japanese quitar. I am looking for more information about the history of the guitar. Thanks.

        1. ive got one to
          codey bond

          i,ve got a Checkmate G550 i have no idea about the guitar outher then my mom bought it back in the 70’s. but i would like to know more about it it had doves on both pick guards and is totally a hippy gutar if you find anything out please send me some info

            1. CheckMate12 String Crown Model G 312 Japan
              Mark Norman

              Hello,
              I have the above 12 string Guitar I was told it was made in 1951. It is in very good condition and curious as to it’s value and any other Info you may have about it.

              Thanks,
              Mark
              [email protected]
              817-944-9911

      15. Re: Checkmate Guitar
        Fran Net

        Charles, I have the exact guitar you discribed with the gold & black Crown logo with CheckMate across the Crown, model G145. I purchased the guitar approximately 30 yrs ago from (if I remember correctly) either Wilson or United Jewelry. It still has the sticker on the back of the neck which reads Steel Reinforced Neck Made in Korea. My grandkids have been playing with it and I decided to see if I could find out anything about its value after 30 yrs. Sorry this is a late reply, but I just found your post tonight 6/20/04.

        1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
          Sheral

          I have received my Grandfather’s guitar and it is a Checkmate also. It has the same gold and black emblem by the keys. I haven’t been able to find out about this brand either, do any of you know what type of strings it should have on it? Any information is greatly appreciated. Model #CL112 Checkmate.

          1. Re: Checkmate Guitar
            BB

            I too inherited a CL112 Checkmate classical guitar from my wife’s grandmother. It’s an 18 fret shortscale small bodied guitar. The wood is actually nice looking and it stays in tune–but doesn’t really compare to my Takamine classical guitar. You need to install a set of nylon classical strings on it. I know nothing of the brand altho on the back of the headstock is a sticker that says "made in Korea" of all places.

      16. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Charles Carbaug
        Charles Carbaug

        I have an accoustic Checkmate Guitar. It has a crown logo and word Checkmate on it. Model G145. Does anyone know about when and where this guitar was made. I am in the process of doing a little touchup on it and restringing. I would be interested in acquiring any of these type old Japanese made guitars. :

        1. Checkmate guitar model cl265
          James.HD

          12 frets looks like spruce top, mahogany sides and back. good shape small neck on top hole. Haven’t seen anything on this model. Is it rare?

        2. Checkmate G 116 used on recording Guitar and Voice
          Paul Noel Fiorino

          I love my little Checkmate g116 that was played on my Mass for the Masses on the album Guitar and Voice steaming world wide. The sound quality is very good and the backside is colorful beautiful and is displayed on the Cover photo.

        3. checkmark g310. worth
          mike

          Hi i have just inherited my father’s checkmark g310. He used to play in a band down in key west Florida back in the 60’s. unfortunately, I hAve to move… and this is one of two guitars that I can not take. What should I ask for it? It is used, and I notice on the back, the nitrocoating is cracked. It plays nice, but the dry idaho air has gotten to it. I will miss it.. thanks if anyone can reply.

        4. Checkmate G300/ dumpster find
          Leon

          I have aquired a Checkmate G300 that was found in a dumpster.The bridge and tuning machines are missing, but the neck appears straight, and it’s in good all around condition. Anyone know where an original bridge might be available, and what type of tuners it originally had? I can make a bridge , and I have a set of gold Grovers laying around, to make it a player if there is no real value in it in original condition. I think it will be a funky, cool old Japan guitar. Anyone got the scoop on them?

        5. Checkmate model g435
          Seelye

          I have a checkmate model g435. I don’t know much about it other than it was made in Korea. I just wondered if it was worth anything. It is not in mint condition but i would say good. Wondering if it would be worth having it restored? Any info you can give would be much appreciated.

        6. Checkmate 135
          Jon

          I just bought a Checkmate 135 from the US and had it sent to the UK. That may sound a little extreme but the reason was it was still new in the original box from the ’60’s so nice for a collection I thought and it was cheap anyhow. When it arrived, the guitar was indeed like new but I saw a problem right away. The deck was badly dished and the bridge looked like it was about to rip off the guitar. Seems like prior to dispatch the seller had kindly added some new steel strings to this nylon string model so somewhere over the Atlantic it took its last breath. Well I got half the cost back from the seller but now thinking I should have got the whole lot because sadly this thing is scrap. Just thought I’d share this for the unwary. If your guitar has a slotted headstock, a tie in bridge and the neck meets the body at the twelfth not the fourteenth fret then the good Lord meant it to have nylon strings.

        7. check mate guitar
          Anonymous

          i bought a checkmate acoustic guitar at a grage sale for 10 bucks i have no idea what it is or where it came from
          what kind is it is it a begener intermedait or advanced playing guitar

        8. Checkmate G300 Acoustic
          John S

          I have an all original Checkmate G300 acoustic which was passed down to me by an uncle. It has a spruce top and what appears to be mahogany veneer sides and back. It features the classic double pick guard which was thought to be so that it could be strung for right or left handed players. I played it for quite a while before the neck began to bow.

          I’m trying to restore it. Where do I find parts?

          1. Checkmate
            Jondog

            I would think the Kay K250 parts would be more or less identical if you can find one cheap. Probably more about than the Checkmates so more chance. Good luck!

        9. Checkmate Acoustic Guitar Model G 301
          Anonymous

          I have an old…Check Mate Model G 301 in excellent shape and cant find any information on this particular guitar…can anyone tell me when it was made and were…and what it is worth….I might be interested in selling it for the right price..any one.. have any information…

        10. Checkmate G-245
          Ohio Luthier

          Checkmate G-245 made in Korea around 1969. 3/4 scale Dreadnought body, mahogany laminated sides and back, spruce laminated top, solid mahogany neck. I have read they were sold by K-mart but have not confirmed that. I purchased one at a garage sale for $1.00. I took the top and fingerboard off to find ever piece of bracing to be loose which explained the wavy top and back. The sides, back and neck are in exceptional condition. After making all new bracing the back is now straight as a arrow. I added new kerfing to the sides to allow me to do purfling and binding. This also strengthened the neck positioning. The back and sides are now strong and straight.
          From this point I will purchase Engelman Spruce for the top and use a post war Martin bracing design with my own tapered rim cut and floating X-brace. I will use rosewood for the fingerboard, bridge, headstock veneer and butt wedge. I am think I will use herringbone for the rosette and purfling and maple for the binding. I will bind the top and bottom of the body as well as the fingerboard and headstock. Fingerboard and headstock will be white pearl inlay. Ebony bridge pins with bone nut and bridge. The fingerboard will have (14″ radius) and medium frets. I will probably use standard tuners.
          The date is Aug 30, 2011. Two months from now this guitar will be a work of art. Will it be worth all the work? Probably not, It will not have much bass but it will play like a dream, have its own tone and be one of a kind. Estimated finish value $350. Investment cost $150. Labor 100 hours. Feel free to mail me for photo updated. KD8EGV@yahoo

          1. Checkmate purchased at Kmart 42 years ago
            Renee

            Hi there, my Dad purchased my Checkmate acoustic 42 years ago at Kmart, I still have it. It the red style and I wanted it to learn how to play in school. But yes He purchased it at Kmart in Duarte Ca

          1. Checkmate 12 string
            Mike

            Hi Mark;

            I own a 1960’s Checkmate Acoustic 6 string (G500). I bought it in near mint condition outside of Chicago for $50.00 More of a novelty than anything. If you still have your’s I’d be interested in purchasing it. If you could send me a few pictures, that would be great.

            Thanks!

            Mike
            815-397-2023

        1. alamo amp model 3
          Anonymous

          Could you please email a schematic of the Alamo model 3. I’m having a problem wiring n a new speaker, and I also want to upgrade capacities ECT. If needed

        2. Alamo Amp3 Schematics
          B-rad

          I have an Alamo Amp3 that was my uncles. Original owner. I want to make harp friendly, but need the schematics. You mentioned you had. Could you email them to me?

    1. Re: Alamo amp schematics and/or tube types
      Martin W.

      : I recently perchased an Alamo Futura Reverb Model 2567. The tubes that came with the amp are unreadable. Can anyone help in giving me the tube types that go into the preamp and the driver.

      No schematic, but found a history of Alamo @
      http://www.vguitar.com/brands/details.asp?ID=89

      An excerpt covering seven Alamo amp models;
      "A good snapshot of the maturing Alamo line (and reflection of the old offerings) can be gleaned from an undated catalog from about 1960. It combines the old “birch A” amp cabinets with newer styling, and features Alamo’s first solidbody Spanish electric guitar.
      With an occasional exception, Alamo guitars and amps were all built in San Antonio, Texas. Pickups, as would always be the case, were also made by Alamo.
      By this time, the Alamo amplifier line had expanded to include seven basic models, all but one of which existed prior to this catalog. Most were offered in a choice of coverings, either in the old birch cabinet with the A cutout on the grill, or in a new, more modern “grey lite” leatherette, offset with two vertical lines of dark grey beading on either side of the grille, and a dark grey plastic grillcloth. The handles were long, rounded, chrome-plated steel. Prices were identical for either the birch A option or the leatherette.
      Still in the Alamo line were the Embassy, Challenger and Jet amplifiers of yore. It’s not known whether they underwent any upgrades. The Embassy featured three tubes (6SL7GT, 6V6GT, and 5Y3GT), a 10" Alamo speaker and 6 watts of output power. The No. 2563 came in leatherette, whereas the No. 2463 came in birch, both for $82.50.
      The Challenger amp also had three tubes (6SL7GT, 6V6GT and 5Y3GT) with two inputs, volume control, 8" Alamo speaker and 5 watts of output power. The No. 2562, in leatherette, and No. 2462, in birch, each cost $62.50.
      The No. 2561 Jet also had three tubes (including one 6SL7GT), two inputs, volume control, 6" Alamo speaker, 4 watts output power, in leatherette only, for $59.50.
      Above these three was the Montclair, which had five tubes (12AX7, 6SLGT, two 6V6GTs and 5Y3GT) with four inputs, tone control, 12" Jensen speaker and 15 watts of output power. The No. 2565, in leatherette, and No. 2465, in birch, cost $124.50.
      Top of the line were two Paragon amplifiers. The Paragon had seven tubes (unidentified), four inputs, two volume controls, a pushbutton tone control (bass boost), 15" Jensen Concert Series speaker and 25 watts output. The No. 2567, in leatherette, and No. 2467, in birch, cost $234.50.
      The Paragon Special was a bass amp version with a 15" Jensen bass speaker. The No. 2569, in leatherette, and No. 2469, in birch, cost $259.50.
      New in about 1960 was the Capri amp, No. 2560. This had three tubes, two inputs, volume control, 6" Alamo speaker and 3 watts output. It was covered in brown leatherette, with no beading, and cost $46.50.
      Five Alamo Hawaiian lap steels were available circa 1960. Most had been introduced in the early ’50s. Top of the line was the No. 2499 Futuramic Dual Eight, with two rectangular necks (the outside one slightly elevated), a black and silver fingerboard with block ALAMO letters as position markers, upward facing 4-and-4 tuners, and a script Alamo logo on the front. Each neck had a single Alamo Alnico V pickup mounted under a chrome handrest. Between the necks was a rectangular (chrome) control plate with one volume and one tone control. Next to it was a 2-way toggle select. Cost was $199.50 for the guitar, plus another $50 for hard case and $39 for legs."

    2. Re: Alamo amp schematics and/or tube types
      blusplar

      I found what original tubes that the amp came from the factory with. Some of the other amps out there have had modification installed to use more modern tubes like 6l6s or 6v6s. The amps factory tubes are 7868s. These tubes are no longer made and are hard to come by. There are some out there and they are expensive. (I’ve found a matched pair for $70 over the internet.) That is too expensive for me, so I modified my amp to use 7591 tubes. The original 7591 are also expensive but Solvtek started manufacturing new versions of the tube, they price at about $27 a matched pair. The good thing about using these tubes is they have the same characteristics as the 7868s. The difference is the 7868 is a 9 pin tube, (I don’t mean a mini 9 either). The 7591 is an 8 pin tube. All I had to do is connect matching connections. (ie, plate to plate; cathode to cathode; etc.) If I used 6l6 or 6v6 I would have to do a big mod to change voltages current flows and such, a little hard to do without schematics. I am still looking for schematics.

      : I recently perchased an Alamo Futura Reverb Model 2567. The tubes that came with the amp are unreadable. Can anyone help in giving me the tube types that go into the preamp and the driver.

    3. Re: Alamo amp schematics and/or tube types
      Wayne Minor

      Blusplar, I checked out my Alamo futura amp and here are the Tubes i have in mine.

      Facing the rear of the amp and starting on the right working back to the left they are as follows:

      One 12AX7 (Preamp which I have installed replacing the original.) Tube

      two RCA Brand 6v6 Tubes

      One IEC Brand made in Britain 5AR/GZ34
      (This tube also has GT on it and the following #s 1/122-203
      I am not sure what role this tube plays in the circuitry)

      I hope this helps,

    4. Re: Alamo amp schematics and/or tube types
      Wayne

      I too have an alamo futura and have sent you an email. I will try to identify my tubes some of which need replacing as well.

      1. Re: Alamo amp schematics and/or tube types
        Rick Ray

        This is some good investigation going on. I have an Alamo Fury 2566 w/no tubes in it. Fro what I’ve gathered so far, the 2 power tubes are 7868’s and the preamp tube is 12AX7…it’s the rectifier tube I have know idea about. Anyone out there w/one of these?

        1. Re: Alamo amp schematics and/or tube types
          Jim

          : This is some good investigation going on. I have an Alamo Fury 2566 w/no tubes in it. Fro what I’ve gathered so far, the 2 power tubes are 7868’s and the preamp tube is 12AX7…it’s the rectifier tube I have know idea about. Anyone out there w/one of these?

          If you look at the amp from the back,and start from the left side,
          12AX7A / 7199 / 7868 / 7868/ 5U4GB

          Electronics Tech,
          Jim Munro
          Service Department,
          Century Music Systems.
          San Antinio Texas
          210-496-2050

          1. Re: Alamo amp schematics and/or tube types
            Sergio NUZZI

            Sirs: I do have TWO Alamo DART tube amps,but both are of DIFFERENT shape.Could I have theyr schematics,please?
            Greeting from Sicily….Sergio NUZZI

        1. Mine has 6V6,5Y3,12AX7,and
          Anonymous

          Mine has 6V6,5Y3,12AX7,and a6AV6. It is marked on the chassis. Alamos had severalvariations in thier curcuits. Ihave two hybrid Jets. One is all solid state pre-amp. One has a 12AX7.Both have5Y3 rec. 6V6 output. SO be careful.

        2. Re: Alamo embassy amp
          bluesguy

          Solid state preamp with a 6V6 output and 5Y3 rectifier.

          : i have a alamo embassy amp and was wondering if anyone knows what tubes it uses?

    5. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... blusplar
      blusplar

      I recently perchased an Alamo Futura Reverb Model 2567. The tubes that came with the amp are unreadable. Can anyone help in giving me the tube types that go into the preamp and the driver.

      1. Alamo Fury
        Anonymous

        Can anyone tell me what the values of the ballast resistors are that are by the tube sockets,I have one that is totally fried and unreadable. Thanks

      2. Alamo "Titan" combo amp
        Anonymous

        I just bought (on the net) a grey tolex Solid steel curved handle amp that is stamped Titan amplifier on the tube chart. I was wondering if anyone has ever seen one of these. Tubes are 2@ 6v6 2@ 12ax7 and a 5y3gt rectifier. has 3 inputs a foot switch a tone and a volume knob. Has the original Utah 12″ speaker with date code of 328208
        Has a great tone. Starts to breakup about 6 on the volume. My repair guy says it’s a 1962. Any one have any more info?

      3. Model #2563 Alamo Embassy wiring schematic or photo of one wired
        wantoplayloud

        My subject kinda says it all. I don’t know what year this is but it has 3 inputs , a foot switch input for the intensity and speed controls which I guess do not work without a switch.?? Someone clipped wires coming form this input and controls and i would like to reconnect. I think they may have been trying to bypass foot switch and just have controls active always. I am also wondering before i fix it if that is possible. Or maybe putting my own builtin switch to the cabinet..instead of a pedal..to run these controls..I would just like to see how one is wired? need schematic..also it says 55watts on front and has 2 tubes in it. Seems this thing is rare..since i cant hardly find anything about it online other then a few auctions selling them. Please help. want to try and make it fully functional with speed and intensity controls working..rest of it works good..just gets a hissing and cracking noise ocationaly..i figure thats dust..but i could use some help digging up some wiring diagrams for this thing.

      4. alamo fiesta --dart--AMP
        blue

        i recently purchased a mint,like new alamo amp.the sticker inside says fiesta but it dosen,t look like any fiesta picture i have seen on the net.this amp is rated at 3 watts/6 watts max.it has a 10 in speaker.controls are, left to right,3 input jacks,volume,tone,speed,intensity.above the speed intensity knobs the word [tremolo] the word[dart] to the right of the speed intensity knobs.tag inside chassis says mdl 2573 FIESTA AMPLIFIER,ser #85471.tubes are left to right looking at back of amp 12au6,35c5,35w4,12av6.the dimensions of this amp are 19 in long,6 1/2 in wide 14 3/4 tall.the 10 in speaker has a square magnet that is 1/2 in thick 2 1/2 x2 1/2. a sticker on the magnet says specially engineered for alamo.everything i have seen about the fiesta model states 10 watt power,8 in speaker.also every fiesta i have seen on the net shows all controls ON THE TOP OF THE CHASSIS.the controls on my amp are ON THE UPPER FRONT OF THE CHASSIS ABOVE THE 10 1/4 x 16 1/2 silver-gold mix snakeskin like speaker grill cloth with a 3 1/4 x 1 alamo nameplate upper left side of grill.i have ordered new tubes as it has a slight hum.the guy i brought it from said he recently put in new capacitors [upgraded] i would love to get a schematic for this as there is probably a difference between this 3 watt/6 watts max amp and the 10 watt fiesta amp.this amp does not have a red power on indicator light as does the 10 watt fiesta.the recessed controls are set in a lt grey painted panel 14 x 2 the chassis is black rough vinyl.has black handle on top secured by 1 1/2 x 1 polished metal rivited strap holders.i would like to get as much info as i can on this amp.as i stated earlier i have looked at hundreds of pictures of alamo amps on every search engine possible and there is NOTHING on this amp,not one picture,is this RARE?I HAVE USED THIS WITH MY NEW STRAT AND I GOTTA SAY THIS LITTLE GUY IS DAMM IMPRESSIVE.THE TREMOLO IS OUTSTANDING,SOUND IS CRYSTAL CLEAR AND THERE IS PLENTY OF POWER.THE NEIGHBOR I BROUGHT IT FROM SAID IT SOUNDED POWERFUL,CLEAR AND CLEAN AND HE LIVES APPROX 500 FT DOWN THE ROAD.ANY INFO ON THIS AMP WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.THANKS,BLUE

        1. Alamo Paragon Bass Schematic
          Barlow Systems

          I have a Alamo Paragon Special Bass Amplifier model 2569 schematic. Tubes: (2) 12AX7, (1) 7199, (2) 5881, (1) 5U4 Dual channel. Special bass and normal channel.

          1. Alamo Paragon Bass Amp
            Lee

            I have an old Paragon Bass amp (w/slider tone controls) that needs work. I really need a schematic to get it restored. I have photos if it will help ID the model/year.
            Thanks in advance!
            Lee

          2. I have 2575
            Chris778fzra

            I have a 2575 model, maybe that just means it was manufactured in 74/75?

            Anyway, the tubes are (2) GT-6L6B and (1) 12AX7R.

            The issue is the output transformer has blown and I am not sure what its impedance was.

            Any suggestions would be amazing!

            Thanks!

            Chris

  17. Teisco Del Rey model #110
    Phaedra

    I cant seem to find my guitar on any website anywhere. Dose anyone have any info they can share? it has the sunburst effect on the front and back.

    1. sorry i meant model #E-110
      Phaedra

      : I cant seem to find my guitar on any website anywhere. Dose anyone have any info they can share? it has the sunburst effect on the front and back.

  18. Have a Del Rey and would like some info on it.
    Deanna

    My dad bought me a del rey, along time ago and i was wondering if anyone out there could give me a little info on it. what year was it made? what is it worth? …..ETC. anything would be helpful and greatly appreciated. Have a great day!

    1. Re: Checkmate Model 235
      jimmy

      i just recently thought about buying a Checkamte guitar, model G145. Has anyone heard of it? know any prices? have any pictures? I have never seen the guitar, all they are asking is for me to trade in 2 cellular phones and chargers (neither of which are acctivated) please email me at [email protected]

      1. Re: Checkmate Model 235
        Bass

        : i just recently thought about buying a Checkamte guitar, model G145. Has anyone heard of it? know any prices? have any pictures? I have never seen the guitar, all they are asking is for me to trade in 2 cellular phones and chargers (neither of which are acctivated) please email me at [email protected]

        1. Re: Checkmate Model 235
          Melissa

          i have an g145 checkmate model. It is similar to a hummingbird and i have no clue where the person that gave it to me got it from. I also want to know more info about it.

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

      Have you ever heard of this guitar? It is an acoustic, cherry sunburst flattop similar to a hummingbird. any information you may have will help.

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

        : I need the schematics for an Alamo Embassy Model 2563 Amplifier.
        : Thanks
        : Darrell

        I just acquired an Alamo Model 3 circa 1949 with the birch ply and ‘A’ grille. It matches the description excerpted below as equipped with (probably original & still OK) Tung-Sol tubes. It is simple enough a good guitar should have no trouble doing common repairs. I will probably trace out a schematic in due time. Email if you still need the schemo and I will try to forward one when available.

        No schematic, but found a history of Alamo @
        http://www.vguitar.com/brands/details.asp?ID=89

        An excerpt covering seven Alamo amp models;
        "A good snapshot of the maturing Alamo line (and reflection of the old offerings) can be gleaned from an undated catalog from about 1960. It combines the old “birch A” amp cabinets with newer styling, and features Alamo’s first solidbody Spanish electric guitar.
        With an occasional exception, Alamo guitars and amps were all built in San Antonio, Texas. Pickups, as would always be the case, were also made by Alamo.
        By this time, the Alamo amplifier line had expanded to include seven basic models, all but one of which existed prior to this catalog. Most were offered in a choice of coverings, either in the old birch cabinet with the A cutout on the grill, or in a new, more modern “grey lite” leatherette, offset with two vertical lines of dark grey beading on either side of the grille, and a dark grey plastic grillcloth. The handles were long, rounded, chrome-plated steel. Prices were identical for either the birch A option or the leatherette.
        Still in the Alamo line were the Embassy, Challenger and Jet amplifiers of yore. It’s not known whether they underwent any upgrades. The Embassy featured three tubes (6SL7GT, 6V6GT, and 5Y3GT), a 10" Alamo speaker and 6 watts of output power. The No. 2563 came in leatherette, whereas the No. 2463 came in birch, both for $82.50.
        The Challenger amp also had three tubes (6SL7GT, 6V6GT and 5Y3GT) with two inputs, volume control, 8" Alamo speaker and 5 watts of output power. The No. 2562, in leatherette, and No. 2462, in birch, each cost $62.50.
        The No. 2561 Jet also had three tubes (including one 6SL7GT), two inputs, volume control, 6" Alamo speaker, 4 watts output power, in leatherette only, for $59.50.
        Above these three was the Montclair, which had five tubes (12AX7, 6SLGT, two 6V6GTs and 5Y3GT) with four inputs, tone control, 12" Jensen speaker and 15 watts of output power. The No. 2565, in leatherette, and No. 2465, in birch, cost $124.50.
        Top of the line were two Paragon amplifiers. The Paragon had seven tubes (unidentified), four inputs, two volume controls, a pushbutton tone control (bass boost), 15" Jensen Concert Series speaker and 25 watts output. The No. 2567, in leatherette, and No. 2467, in birch, cost $234.50.
        The Paragon Special was a bass amp version with a 15" Jensen bass speaker. The No. 2569, in leatherette, and No. 2469, in birch, cost $259.50.
        New in about 1960 was the Capri amp, No. 2560. This had three tubes, two inputs, volume control, 6" Alamo speaker and 3 watts output. It was covered in brown leatherette, with no beading, and cost $46.50.
        Five Alamo Hawaiian lap steels were available circa 1960. Most had been introduced in the early ’50s. Top of the line was the No. 2499 Futuramic Dual Eight, with two rectangular necks (the outside one slightly elevated), a black and silver fingerboard with block ALAMO letters as position markers, upward facing 4-and-4 tuners, and a script Alamo logo on the front. Each neck had a single Alamo Alnico V pickup mounted under a chrome handrest. Between the necks was a rectangular (chrome) control plate with one volume and one tone control. Next to it was a 2-way toggle select. Cost was $199.50 for the guitar, plus another $50 for hard case and $39 for legs."

  19. Teisco Pick Ups
    hairlessmunkee

    I’m wondering if there are any "ready made" replacement pickups for Teiscos. If there is a particular mftr or custom winder that does a good job I’d appreciate if you could post or send me a contact point. Thanks!

    1. Re: alamo fury 2566 amp
      chris

      : HI ! I HAVE A ALAMO FURY 2566 TUBE AMP THAT I,D LIKE TO FIX. DO,S ANYONE HAVE THE SCHEMATI

      I don’t have that but I am missing the fuse in the back of my alamo amp… do you happen to know what kind it is???

  20. Teisco spares
    Mark

    Does anyone know where I can buy replacement tuning gears for a Teisco guitar? They don’t have to be original – just look right (aged white/cream tuners with aged white/cream post sleeves).

    Thanks,

    Mark.

  21. Eletric Guitar
    Rod

    I have receintaly come across A Heit Deluxe (it says this scross the top of the neck) it dose not say much else. Cruizing through this web page i have noticed others have also found simular guitars. Id like to know if this brand of guitar is not very popular of if it even has much value.

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