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. Chechmate 16 Bass Amp
    Tim

    Need a wiring diagram/schematic for this vintage Teisco Del Rey/Checkmate 16 Bass & Organ Amp. 10 or 20 watt output, 12″ speaker; 3 inputs, volume and tone control, pilot lamp.

  2. Checkmate Small Body Acoustic Model G220
    Chuck

    This is a smallbody sunburst red/yellow Model G220 Checkmate Acoustic. I found it at an estate sale today for 20.00

    Can anyone tell me about this guitar including value?

    Thanks

  3. teisco - made in taiwan?
    randallace

    hi … i just picked up a teisco e-110 , but it has taiwan stamped under the serial number ( 104172 and another number – looks like a 9?) where all the others ive seen say japan there …??? ….also my headstock logo is a gold crown with red teisco lettering – dosent say del ray anywhere on it …. just the crown and name…. any help here ? ….please?

  4. Teisco/Zim Gar guitars??
    Jhonny Meloni

    Ive been looking for information regarding Zim Gar. Some say it was a brand under Teisco’s manufacturing. Others it was a Mexico based company. Can someone help me through this?

    Greetings and good luck!

  5. vn-4 guitar
    glen bougher

    I have a vn-4 guitar with the name Tulio on the head instead of Ayar. Does anybody have any information on these guitar. it is an electric.

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

      An old high school buddy of mine gave me this guitar about 16 years ago. According to him it had been sitting in his grandmother’s attic for 20+ years, and he didn’t know what to do with it, so he gave it to me.

      I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s brown, like a faux mahogany finish. It has the 4+2 tuning peg configuration, zero fret, multi-notched barrel bridge and Bigsby-style tailpiece, the tremolo bar was missing when I got it, and the threads appear stripped.

      I really don’t know exactly what I have here, maybe someone can help me figure this out. People I’ve taken it to guessed it to be a ’67 model, but info on a Teisco site places it around ’65. I dunno, I just like the guitar and want to get it playable if possible.

      Thanks,
      Kevin

      Related Article:
      The Best Hollow Body Guitar Brands

      1. I have a complete Teisco Del Rey Model EP-100T
        Terry Cross

        Hello Keven,
        I have a complete Teisco Del Rey Guitar Model # EP-100T Serial # 397370 and just yesterday took it to Milano Music Store here in Mesa, AZ and they checked it out in every way and everything works including all the switches. It has been kept inside an air conditioned home since the 1960’s. I went to the Milano Music Store yesterday and bought a $4000.00 Martin D-35 and took my Teisco EP-100T and they tested it out for free but said they only deal with new instruments so they would not take it on a trade. If you want to talk my cell is 480-258-1822.
        Best Regards, Terry.

  6. Teisco Domino Spaartan Tremolo Bar
    johnny alonso

    I have a 1967 Domino Spartan by Teisco – I’m looking for the tremolo bar for this model. I you have one or know where I can find this trem bar please contact me: [email protected] thanks so much in advance

    1. Re: kimbara 12 string guitar model 72
      Michael

      : Just wondering if anyone could give me an estimate on price ?? thankyou

      I saw one on ebay just now, in good condition, for about 150 pounds…

    1. Re: Teisco Kimberly Les Paul copy
      Michael

      : I bought a guitar from a friend yesterday. It is a Kimberly(its in a name plate on the head) Les Pual copy. It had two humbuckers and three knobs a switch and jack on the front. The body has nice looking binding so does the neck and head. It is black and i love it. That is all that matters but i would like to know a little about it…..

      : Thanks

      I had a black Kimberly Les Paul. It was my first guitar and I loved it. Do you hav a picture of it?

    2. Re: Teisco Kimberly Les Paul copy
      Gerry Mac

      : I bought a guitar from a friend yesterday. It is a Kimberly(its in a name plate on the head) Les Pual copy. It had two humbuckers and three knobs a switch and jack on the front. The body has nice looking binding so does the neck and head. It is black and i love it. That is all that matters but i would like to know a little about it…..

      : Thanks

      What you have is a Univox, the Kimberly name was used by LaFayette Electronics of Syosset New York. They died circa 1976, so I figure yours is 1971-76 vintage. Nice student axe. I have one in pieces for rebuild. Gerry

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... redcatguitar2007
      redcatguitar2007

      I bought a guitar from a friend yesterday. It is a Kimberly(its in a name plate on the head) Les Pual copy. It had two humbuckers and three knobs a switch and jack on the front. The body has nice looking binding so does the neck and head. It is black and i love it. That is all that matters but i would like to know a little about it…..

      Thanks

  7. Trem bar for teisco et-200 (desperate)
    Tim

    I am DESPERATELY looking for a trem bar/spring and adjusting bolt for my teisco et-200 i belive it is early 70’s also seeking a 60’s kay teisco sg for project

  8. Planet brand guitar? Same as Teisco WG-4L???
    Hank Engel

    I have a guitar with the brand name Planet on it. It looks EXACTLY like the Teisco WG-4L. Does anyone know if Planet was a subsidiary of Teisco? And the serial number plate is missing. But I’m curious to find out about what year it was made. Anybody have any idea? Thanks!

    1. Planet branded guitar
      Don Tucker

      Yes, it was made by Teisco. I got a brand new Planet branded ET 201 for Christmas about 1966. They were sold either through Simpson Sears or Eatons in Canada. (It was one or the other, not both, but I can’t remember which one)

  9. Teisco EV-2T Wiring
    Jim

    Once I opened up the EV-2T that hasn’t been plugged in for 25 years, I see there are two wires disconnected. It looks like they would be grounding wires from each of the pickups to the switch. Does anyone know if I can solder them directly to the body of the switches? Any feedback would be appreciated – diagrams, photos…

    1. Re: Teisco EV-2T Wiring
      Lee

      Jim,
      I have an EV-2T that I need to open and service soon. If you’ll send an email to leedavila [at] hotmail.com, I’ll send you pics of what I see there, hopefully, that’ll be something for your to go on.

      : Once I opened up the EV-2T that hasn’t been plugged in for 25 years, I see there are two wires disconnected. It looks like they would be grounding wires from each of the pickups to the switch. Does anyone know if I can solder them directly to the body of the switches? Any feedback would be appreciated – diagrams, photos…
      :

  10. Teisco Spectrum 5 parts
    Antonio

    Hi, I need some Teisco Spectrum 5 parts, specially the 5 colored buttons pickups selector device. Anyone knows where can I find it? Many thanks in advice

      1. Re: Teisco Spectrum 5 parts
        Antonio

        : i have these parts- what else do you need.

        Hi, I also need the "Spectrum 5" badge, and the little "teisco del rey" logo badge at the bridge cover.
        But mostly I need the 5 buttons selector… dou you really have these parts?

  11. TEISCO ... SG deluxe 1972
    PETTE

    i have a TEISCO GUITAR thath looks like imitation of SG deluxe 1972….

    i wanna know about it….

    i know teisco in 1969 not produce anymore….:S

  12. I recently purchased a guitar I believe it is a Teisco it is very similar to the Teisco SS-4l nut the badge reads model # SW4L is there anyone who has any info on this guitar it would be greatly appreciated Thanks Ron

    1. Re: VN-2 Teisco guitar
      Daniel W.

      : Looking for a 1964 VN-2 Teisco guitar. please reply at [email protected]

      I have one. It’s fairly worn because its such an old guitar. It’s also missing the original bridge and whammy bar. Improvised bridge installed.

    1. Re: 1964 VN-2 Teisco
      paperair

      : Looking for a 1964 VN-2 <b style="color:black;background-color:#ffff66">Teisco</b> guitar. There’s one on ebay right now, i think. Do a search for ‘teisco baritone’

  13. Teisco EV-2T
    Pete Porter

    I need some parts for my EV-2T. Does anyone know where to get any? Pickguard material(I’ll build my own, can’t find the cheesy woodgrain), knobs and wiring diagram? I just bought a basket case and am trying to redo it.
    Thanks,
    Pete

    1. Re: Teisco EV-2T
      jim

      I’m starting one too. Just got an EV-2T with replacement pickups (the bridge is a humbucker!) I’m starting to search out pieces including pickups. Have you been having luck finding parts?
      Thanks
      Jim

    1. Re: Alamo Guitars and Amps
      claude

      I am putting speakers into an Alamo Futura Reverb 2567. I do not know what the impedence of the original speakers was, or how they were wired. Can you fill in the blanks?

    2. Re: Alamo Guitars and Amps
      Rick

      : Hi. I am interested in buying old Alamo guitars and amps. Do you have any for sale or can you refer?

      : Thanks,

      : David
      I HAVE A 2566 FURY,I AM THINKING ABOUT SELLING,Email,If you are interested,Thanks

      1. Re: Alamo Guitars and Amps
        David

        : : Hi. I am interested in buying old Alamo guitars and amps. Do you have any for sale or can you refer?

        : : Thanks,

        : : David
        : I HAVE A 2566 FURY,I AM THINKING ABOUT SELLING,Email,If you are interested,Thanks

        Yes, I am interested in your Fury amp. What is your asking price? Where is the amp located? David

        1. Re: Alamo Guitars and Amps
          ShoFury

          Hi, I have a vintage Alamo 2566 Fury that I’m willing to sell. Let me know if you are still interested.

          : : : Hi. I am interested in buying old Alamo guitars and amps. Do you have any for sale or can you refer?

          : : : Thanks,

          : : : David
          : : I HAVE A 2566 FURY,I AM THINKING ABOUT SELLING,Email,If you are interested,Thanks

          : Yes, I am interested in your Fury amp. What is your asking price? Where is the amp located? David

  14. E-100
    Vinny Carnevale

    I have an old E-100 and i was wondering if anyone has a price range on it. As I said, its an E-100, but I found it in my basement and its beat up quite well. I took it upon myself to get some dust off and put on a new set of Ernie Ball Regular Slinky strings. I plugged it into my Peavy Backstage Plus and amazingly, after 50 years, it still plays great. If you have a price range or are intersted, please email me at [email protected]. Thank you

    1. Re: E-100
      Vinny Carnevale

      Forgot to mention, if you want pictures, I will email them to you.

      : I have an old E-100 and i was wondering if anyone has a price range on it. As I said, its an E-100, but I found it in my basement and its beat up quite well. I took it upon myself to get some dust off and put on a new set of Ernie Ball Regular Slinky strings. I plugged it into my Peavy Backstage Plus and amazingly, after 50 years, it still plays great. If you have a price range or are intersted, please email me at [email protected]. Thank you

    1. Re: Fresher brand guitar
      Wietse

      Hello Brian,

      It depends very much on the type of the guitar. I dont know wich type you have but i think somewher between 100 and 500 us dollar.

      greeting Wietse

      1. Re: Fresher brand guitar
        ken smith

        :
        : Im an American living in Cambodia,I can get my hands on a few old Fresher Straighter strat style guitars if you know anyone who wants to buy them,let me know,Ken

        1. Fresher Straighter Guitars
          woodro

          Let me know if you can still get your hands on a Fresher Staighter. I will put down a modest down payment with a commitment to pay when received. Many thanks, Rob

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

      I recently inherited a Fresher brand guitar and am looking to get an idea of what it is worth. Anyone out there know? I am from the US, so please specify what currency you are referring to if it is something other than American dollars.

  15. Kimberly/Teisco guitar parts/repair?
    bill

    Hi. I have a green black sunburst 4 pickup Kimberly guitar. One of the pickups is busted. My tech guy says he sent it out to be rewound and it was returned by his tech. "Too much trouble" they said. I guess they just don’t feel the magic. Anyway. Are there any parts rigs out there or fearless pickup repair people? Thanks. B

    1. Re: Kimberly/Teisco guitar parts/repair?
      Rick Jones

      : Hi. I have a green black sunburst 4 pickup Kimberly guitar. One of the pickups is busted. My tech guy says he sent it out to be rewound and it was returned by his tech. "Too much trouble" they said. I guess they just don’t feel the magic. Anyway. Are there any parts rigs out there or fearless pickup repair people? Thanks. B

      Got a couple mid 60’s Teiscos I’d part with- one is near perfect the other needs some work.

      1. teisco guitar arch top electric model# ep 23 neck pick-u p 1''x 3 1/4. I need one bad
        Gary Dinsmore

        : : Hi. I have a green black sunburst 4 pickup Kimberly guitar. One of the pickups is busted. My tech guy says he sent it out to be rewound and it was returned by his tech. "Too much trouble" they said. I guess they just don’t feel the magic. Anyway. Are there any parts rigs out there or fearless pickup repair people? Thanks. B

        : Got a couple mid 60’s Teiscos I’d part with- one is near perfect the other needs some work.

      2. teisco guitar arch top electric model# ep 23 neck pick-up 1''x 3 1/4.
        Gary Dinsmore

        : : Hi. I have a green black sunburst 4 pickup Kimberly guitar. One of the pickups is busted. My tech guy says he sent it out to be rewound and it was returned by his tech. "Too much trouble" they said. I guess they just don’t feel the magic. Anyway. Are there any parts rigs out there or fearless pickup repair people? Thanks. B

        : Got a couple mid 60’s Teiscos I’d part with- one is near perfect the other needs some work.

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

      This guitar is in excellent condition. All chrome parts are perfect. The zero and first frets show minor string wear. There are very minor scratches in the paint and a small 3/4" crack in the paint on the back. Overall, the paint color and gloss are like new. It would take very close inspection to see any of the blemishes. All controls work fine. The hard case has some scratches. I am the original owner. I have not seen this guitar sold on ebay. How can I get the value of this guitar?

  16. Teisco Del Rey Model Number E-112
    Chris

    I just found my uncle’s old guitar, i think it’s a E-112 but i can’t find any information on it. If any one can help me out that’d be great! thanks!

    1. Re: Teisco Del Rey Model Number E-112
      j

      hey…i have a 112 right here…..ill just tell ya what it looks like so you can compare…
      One pickup, one volume one tone, reinforced neck. looks very similar to the 200 something model…but the 112 has a way cooler pickguard.

  17. Teisco DelRay EV-3T
    Cmurphy

    I am looking for info re: EV-3T model (such as year(s) manufactured, current worth etc. . . It is in excellent condition. Solid body, triple pickup, whammy bar and all VOX electronics. Has DelRay logo on neck with silver plate on back w/ EV-3T. It all works. I do not have email (borrowing library’s computer) Please contact 330-417-5206

  18. Guitar Necks
    Gordy Zens

    Working on a project and I need some very inexpensive guitar necks. Anybody seen a place where I can buy them. I need several for starters.

  19. 1960'S KAWAI HOLLOWBODY
    NORM

    I HAVE RESCUED A HOLLOWBODY KAWAI THAT I CAN FIND NO INFO ON THE ONLY MARKING ON IT IS "MADE IN JAPAN" I KNOW THAT TEIESCO WAS BOUGHT BY KAWAI IN THE MID TO LATE 60’S I SAW ONE SIMILA TO IT ON VINTAGEAXE.COM BUT THEY SAY THERE’S IS FIBERGLASS THE ONE I HAVE I BELIEVE TO BE WOOD I DO HAVE PIC’S BY REQ IF YOU THINK YOU CAN HELP!!!

  20. Inter-Mark Columbia
    Deloris Carter

    I recently received an old electric guitar. I can’t seem to find much info about it. It says Inter-Mark, made in Japan. On the neck it says Columbia. It has a piece missing where the wraparound bridge connects to the body. I’d like to get this repaired. I know it’s probably from the 50’s or 60’s. Any info would be appreciated

      1. Re: Checkmate guitar model # 265
        Karl Nordquist

        No way. Checkmates rool! LOL
        Actually I love em. There’s certain sounds you just can’t get with quality instruments. If you crank one through a Monkey Wards amp into a good PA, you can sound like Link Wray or Hound Dog Taylor. Mean nasty sounds!

        : yeah, that guitar is from k-mart
        : its crap

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Jay and Ash
      Jay and Ash

      Hey picked up this guitar at a garage sale for $5. Cherry finish. Checkmate logo in red over a blue crown (metal)on headstock. Made in japan sticker on back. Does anyone know anything about this guitar?

      1. Checkmate 245
        KD8EGV

        Recently while at a garage sale I purchased a Checkmate G-245 Guitar sold in the early 70’s. You maybe be wondering why I would purchase a POS like this. As a Luthier I figured the mahogany neck was worth something. After taking the top off I found the skeleton to be broken free from the plywood top and back. Nothing on with guitar could ever be reused except the neck but the neck was worth the dollar I spent.

        1. Checkmate acoustic model 7 G245
          Chris"FELL A VICTIM t.m." Slay

          I found my checkmate when cleaning out my grandparents home after my grandfathers passing.i just got a new bridge and some binding work done.Took the guy 3 months to fix! The wait was well worth it!!! I had played it prior to getting a new bridge, but the old bridge was just too dry & cracked. My dad remembers it being pawned to my grandfather in the early 50′ s. the guy even carved his social security number in the back of the head. Mine did not come with or ever had a pickguard, the exact same looking ones I’ve seen have pick guards. Haven’t been able to find a picture of 1 without a pick guard. Also I’m only able to read one number on the brace under the neck is the number 10. Serial number is 7 G245. Has the what I believe to be Koa sides & back.”mother of pearl” inlays. All in all it is an awesome acoustic and this is coming from a 25 year playing bass player. So I hope my opinion is valid. I paid 166$ for the repairs. And wouldn’t value my Checkmate at no less than 400$-500$’s. They are highly saught after guitars, at least in Utah. So if anyone sees one for cheap I would grab it! Again this is just my opinion! Everyone take care!

  21. silvertone acoustic 1970's-80's
    andi

    hello! i am looking for parts for an old sears silvertone acoustic flat top, not f hole, around 1970’s or 80’s, i cant even find a picture of one like mine! any help of where i can get parts or even a picture would be great!
    thanks!

  22. Teisco,Del Rey
    Walt Cooper

    I have a Teisco Del Rey model EP81. I have never seen another one
    of that model nor have I ever heard of one. Is it rare??? The Serial
    number is 374492. I think it was made in the 60’s but not sure.

  23. Inter-Mark 12 string
    Keith

    Hello,

    I found this site doing a web search. I just purchased a 12 string Inter-Mark guitar. It has two pickups (or four, I guess), and is styled after a Jaguar/Jazzmaster type guitar. It’s a 12 string. I was wondering if anybody found out any more info on these guys since the discussion below, and if anyone else has a 12 string version. It appears to be on par with the low level bolt-neck Hagstroms, if not a bit worse in quality. I haven’t taken the pickguard off yet, but I highly doubt that it’s solid wood. (All the contoured areas are conveniently covered by the sunburst paintjob.) At any rate, it is actually pretty cool. Very junky sounding…I was about to dump almost 3 Grand on a sweeeet faded cherry burst ’67 ES-335 12 string and I came across this….hopefully it will tide me over.

    Keith

  24. ET-310!!!!
    Adolf Hazzard (via moderator)

    hey, I’ve got a teisco et-310 and was wondering what it was worth, i have seen one guy buy it for 350 but i don’t know if he overpaid or underpaid. no one seems to have this guitar… odd..

  25. re teisco checkmate 25
    marion turner

    HI THERE, I AM FROM AUSTRALIA.

    CAN YOU TELL ME WHAT A CHECKMATE 25 AMPLIFIER IS WORTH THESE DAYS….
    I HAVE ONE…IN WHITE VYNYL COVERING….IN GREAT CONDITION!!!
    I WISH TO SELL…..THANKS……MARION

      1. Re: re teisco checkmate 25
        Werner Calitz

        I also have one of these… It’s a black "head" with a 15" cab. Think the speaker inside is celestion… Anyone interested in it? Please mail me.

          1. Re: re teisco checkmate 25
            JP

            : hi i need the schematic of checkmate 25

            Hi there . . .

            . . . JP here !

            I am in SA, and there is a Checkmate that i can get for a good price, but it sound kinda soft ?
            Is this amp a real 25watts of valve power, or is it just a #, this 25 !?
            The one i tested, sounded NO LOUDER than a 15watt SOLID STATE, if that much !

            Any answers to :

            [email protected]

            THANX
            JP

    1. Re: kimbara
      Gunther

      Hi, I am from Germany and travelled in 1977 to London to buy my first guitar. I got a Kimbara, Specially Made in Japan for FCN Model 150. I paid around 75 pound sterling. It is still a great guitar like some Martins

    2. Re: kimbara
      paul batten

      : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
      : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
      : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
      : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
      : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
      : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
      : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
      : I would appreciate any information about it .

      hi i have a kimbara label made for fcn model no 30/p semi accoustic had it for over twenty years but dont no nothing about them, but fantastic sound

    3. Re: kimbara
      Tom Francis

      I bought a Kimbara 23CRD Chinese-built cutaway electro-acoustic about six years ago. It needed a little luthier work to bring it fully up to scratch, but as a result it has the sweetest action of any acoustic (well, any guitar, in fact) that I’ve ever played. So the transition to Chinese manufacture hasn’t ruined the brand.

      Light-bodied, it throws a lot of sound forwards, which might not suit everyone (I like giving it to friends to play just so I can here it to full effect). It has basic Artec passive EQ, but through a decent amp, the stock piezo pickup gives a great sound with plenty of "air" and full range.

      IIRC I paid about £200 for it. I wouldn’t ever sell it. Folks I know who have £600+ guitars rate it highly. Unless the OP’s guitar’s a total crock, I’d think twice about selling it!

        1. KIMBARA 171/Q
          Toni

          Hi there! Trawling through guitar sites I came across your post. Don’t know anything about it but would love to know as it was a 12th birthday present in 1978 for me and I still have it. Thought it was amazing to find another with the same model. I just wondered if you’d found anything out in the end? Thanks Toni

    4. Re: kimbara
      darren harris

      i got my kimbara acoustic in 1979 it cost 45 pounds . and it was second hand .its black and has a pickgard coated in flowers and has a dove on it . i love it. although my gibson j 45 sounds top class . my kimbara is not too far behind in sound . does anyone know how much it is worth .

      1. Re: kimbara
        Willie

        I bought a Kimbara black late 70s – pick guard with flowers and dove. ABSOLUTELY ASTOUNDING. Sounded like a Fender but a fraction of the price. Sold it along with all my other guitars – WRONG MOVE. I’ve now spent the past few years trying to find another. They are priceless if you have a good 70s model. Don’t sell it for less than a couple of hundred (unless to me for what you paid for it!!!!!)
        : i got my kimbara acoustic in 1979 it cost 45 pounds . and it was second hand .its black and has a pickgard coated in flowers and has a dove on it . i love it. although my gibson j 45 sounds top class . my kimbara is not too far behind in sound . does anyone know how much it is worth .

    5. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
      Peter Stephenson

      : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
      : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
      : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
      : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
      : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
      : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
      : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
      : I would appreciate any information about it .

      Hullo,

      I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

      I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

      1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Jarmundur Steinkross

        Hi, I have a acoustic Kimbara guitar.

        Specially made in Japan for FCN-London : Model no. 30

        Would anyone know the value of this guitar?

      2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Marcus

        I checked this thread and thought I should submit a follow-up for anyone interested in these guitars.

        Mine is a rare one: its a Kimbara 29/L, and you will find no reference to it anywhere (well I came up with nothing anyway). It’s a classical 6 -string, with a single cutaway and its also electro-acoustic, with a piezo-type pickup under the bridge, with a lead socket in the strap lug and two control pots on the top, close to the neck. The build is similar to the 8/Y and the quality is easy to see on this model. I have played many guitars and this is one of my favourites. The tone is round and deliberate, and it always holds tune even with nylon strings.

      3. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Jeff Stephens

        My Kimbara is a model 6/S. I bought it in a music shop in Surbiton in 1980ish. I’ve since lived in Texas, Suffolk, Nevada, Ohio, and now Florida, and my Kimbara has followed me everywhere. It has a few nicks and scratches now but I still love playing it.
        My son has a $1000 Martin, but I still argue my Kimbara is as nice to hear as his baby!

      4. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar 12 string
        Pauric foody

        Hello, i’ve a kimbara 12 string guitar number 72. And i was wondering whether anybody could give me a rough idea on price??. Thankyou

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar 12 string
          Hugh McBride

          : Hello, i’ve a kimbara 12 string guitar number 72. And i was wondering whether anybody could give me a rough idea on price??. Thankyou

          1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar 12 string
            Hugh McBride

            :
            : : Hello, i’ve a kimbara 12 string guitar number 72. And i was wondering whether anybody could give me a rough idea on price??. Thankyou
            Found this post yesterday. They seem to be priced up to £150
            I am looking for a replacement bridge for a 72 has anyone got the dimensions

      5. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Tom

        : I came across this Kimbara specially made in Japan for FCN-London model #108 serial#40802 It’s a small classical guitar with nice inlay work around the body and sound hole AND the best sounding E chord of all my guitars it’s a joy to play.
        : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
        : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
        : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
        : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
        : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
        : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
        : : I would appreciate any information about it .

        : Hullo,

        : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

        : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

      6. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Andy

        :I have a Model 73 which, like Graham, I purchased in Uxbridge in 1974. I guess this was at ‘Dawkes’ on the Hillingdon Road; I think I paid £37 for it. It’s the model others have mentioned with the three-piece back, and would appear to be a copy of the Martin D35 with the same shape headstock, too. It’s matured magnificently over the years and has a great tone. The action has always been a little high and consequently things become harder the further past the 9th fret you go. I never got this sorted, and I suppose I’m just used to it now. I took it to a guitar shop to have some slight cracking in the top assessed, which I thought may be down to mis-use. Nothing untoward was found, but the dealer dashed my hopes by suggesting that it probably wasn’t worth much more than I paid for it 30-odd years ago!

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          John Dayman

          I submitted my comments on the Kimbara 8/Y acoustic about 2 years ago. Yes, a passable copy of the Martin D-35 but missing the wonderful aroma of solid rosewood and spruce – is there an aerosol of wood essences available anywhere?
          The high action on my guitar meant it wasn’t played very often. Recently my brother turned up without his guitar, and, somewhat reluctant to let him get his hot sticky hands on my new Gibson TV Hummingbird, I took the truss rod nut out of the Kimbara, installed a thin washer, tightened up and got the action down to an acceptable level, and finally installed new Elixir Nano Phosphor Bronze 11’s. What a transformation! Easy action and beautiful tones. The sound is more like you would expect from a mahogany-bodied Gibson and I reckon it would compare very favourably with an older Gibson, who, after all, weren’t above making guitar bodies out of laminates for certain models.
          Having Kimbara on the headstock, rather than Gibson, makes all the difference, value-wise. Crazy world.

      7. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Vanich

        Hi.
        I’m russian and I’m working at construction. My friend found Kimbara Guitar during demolition work and presents it to me.
        Now I have this nice Guitar and really like it!
        It sound very interesting (compare to Ibanez, Yamaha and some others guitars). Condition of guitar not very well, but any way, it sound!
        Label on guitar say:

        Kimbara acoustic model no. 166 specially made in Japan for FCN London,
        With the mosaic round and it has no serial number (??).
        I happy to found so many people are interesting in these guitars.
        By the way, I think, I should say sorry for my English (which is not well :))

      8. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Tony

        I’ve also got a Kimbara, "made in Japan for FCN England", Model Number 2/6. Got it in Manchester in 1978 for about £70 (a whole weeks wages!). Beautiful tone especially with Ernie Ball phosphor bronze extra lights (although I haven’t seen them for years). The neck was snapped off mine and has been glued back on, and it’s still sounding great. I’ve got an Ovation now but the Kimbara wil always be my baby.

      9. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Paul

        Here is the reply I was sent by FCN music earlier this month (July 2008):

        "There has never been a “KIMBARA” factory as such. The brand name is the property of FCN Music and has been used on guitars they have commissioned from various factories since the late 60’s. The brand name was first registered on 2nd January 1968.
        Initially guitars were produced in Japan, in the late 1980’s guitars were sourced from Korea and in the late 1990’s instruments moved to factories in China.
        The Kimbara brand mark has been used on Classical, Steel Strung and Electric guitars. The 8/Y model was available from 1977-1990 last RRP £186.00.

      10. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Rolfe Moore

        I know it may be a bit "Nurdy", But I have 4 kimbaras, two small bodied ones, one I have had for 30 years (cost £25.00 with an electric pick up and strap!)and it was secondhand then, the other I got recently for only £10.50! A black jumbo semi accoustic (£40.00), and finnaly a 12 string that I bought in York 20 years ago, second hand for £50.00. All say made in Japan, etc on the label. Personally I have only come accross one other person that owns one (face to face that is)in 30 years! They are all good quality good sounding guitars that didn’t cost the earth, maybe we should keep it to ourselves ???????

        : I

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          Mike

          I bought a Kimbara secondhand for £15 in the early 70s (I believe). My son had it for a while and it is now back with me, Sounds OK with fresh strings and looks really nicely aged now. It says it was made in Japan too.

      11. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Terry Hodges

        Hi, I am Terry in Cornwall U.K. Started playing in 1962 when 14 . Stopped playing in 1968.Started again, briefly, in early 1970s when I bought my Kimbara.Stopped playing for 30 years have now started again. My Kimbara was bought for about£50.Beautiful. Label says-Specially made in Japan for FCN-London, Model No.108 Serial No. 43003.Sounds fantastic,so resonent and sonorous, but then I am biased! Shame that I can not do it justice. As my tutor once said"you are my best student for playing the wrong note". Praise indeed!! I am using Savarez strings at present. I could not buy a guitar of this class in U.K. for less than about £300- £500, possibly more. Hope that this helps.

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          John Christopher Dayman

          Hi Terry..greetings from fellow Cornish resident. Have just replied to Kimbara comment by Jackie Prachek, which might be of interest. The price you paid 30 years ago sounds about right -unfortunately it’s probably still about the right price now in 2007! I never could see the point of spending a lot of money on a "name" guitar, that is, not until I found a second-hand Martin D-16, which just sings and makes me want to improve my playing to do justice to the exquisite tones and sound,- and like everything else, lasting,superb quality does not come cheap!
          Anyway, ’nuff of this,- I’m near Penzance, if you fancy a Kimbara re-union anytime! Best wishes. John Dayman

        2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          toni Lee

          hi! I bought my kimbara electro-acoustic guitar from ebay. I was lucky. it is stunning, immaculate condition. it says Specially made in Japan for FCN-london, Model number 3/J. It is a greeny blue colour which appears to change colour in the light. I love this guitar. It has all the original shop stickers on it, "CITY OF LONDON MUSIC STORE, 17 ELDON STREET, CITY, LONDON EC2M 7LR 01-588 4649" I believe it is approx 23 years old. though i’m desperate to find out. It looks brand new . i even have a strap which dates at the same time. probably bought with the guitar. I also have the original carry case. (soft, not hard. Its my baby. if my cats sniff at it, they are chucked out side. they have learned not to go near it.

      12. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        roger

        : : my guitar is a model 169 made in Japan for FCN London, I bought it in 1964 second hand, for £15, it’s a real cracker, low action, deep box, (can’t beat a deep box}, nice wide fret, and I love it. Unfortunately, I left it in the sun , and the head split, not one to panic , I taped it , then glued it, left it a full week and removed the bandages,it was as though nothing had happened, I have played it for the last 25 years, absolutely superb, until today when one of the pegs decided to rattle it’s clack, top E, ALWAYS A PROBLEM! So if any of you have , or know where to get a peg , please let me know. ps. I am a Guernseyman

      13. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        jackie Prachek

        : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
        : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
        : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
        : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
        : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
        : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
        : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
        : : I would appreciate any information about it .

        : Hullo,

        : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

        : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

        I bought my kimbara model 71 back in the mid 70’s whilst comparing it with a guild that cost four times as much and sounded only marginally better. if you want to sell," wizzard guitars" in Doncaster England buy vintage guitars and I’ve seen Kimbaras on their wanted sheet…. But with good strings, you’ll not better it on sound or price, and its vintage.

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          John Christopher Dayman

          HI Jackie..I have the same model Kimbara (8/Y).Yes,Far-East copy, something they were renowned for. I’m into Martin guitars and you can see where the idea for this one came from. Check out the D-35, in 1965 they started making the three-piece back, and in 1969 they introduced the D-41..hey presto, the Kimbara 8/Y. A very good copy of Martin ideas but I assume the body and top are all laminates. I use Light gauge strings (12-54). Tone isn’t bad until you pick up something like a Martin D-18 or 28, then you know why you paid peanuts for the Kimbara! Can never see them achieving any great value or being collector’s pieces, but they are well-made and look great hanging on the wall. Best regards. John Dayman.

        2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          Adam

          : : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
          : : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
          : : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
          : : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
          : : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
          : : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
          : : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
          : : : I would appreciate any information about it .

          : : Hullo,

          : : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

          : : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

          : I bought my kimbara model 71 back in the mid 70’s whilst comparing it with a guild that cost four times as much and sounded only marginally better. if you want to sell," wizzard guitars" in Doncaster England buy vintage guitars and I’ve seen Kimbaras on their wanted sheet…. But with good strings, you’ll not better it on sound or price, and its vintage.

          Hello…… i too have a Kimbara Guitar with the same info…ie made especially for london fcn… model number 30….can anyone tell me whether this is guitar shape/design or number made?

          1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar No way!......I have model number 29 of the same guitar!!
            jamesetheridge

            the frets,
            : : : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
            : : : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
            : : : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
            : : : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
            : : : : I would appreciate any information about it .

            : : : Hullo,

            : : : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

            : : : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

            : : I bought my kimbara model 71 back in the mid 70’s whilst comparing it with a guild that cost four times as much and sounded only marginally better. if you want to sell," wizzard guitars" in Doncaster England buy vintage guitars and I’ve seen Kimbaras on their wanted sheet…. But with good strings, you’ll not better it on sound or price, and its vintage.

            :
            : Hello…… i too have a Kimbara Guitar with the same info…ie made especially for london fcn… model number 30….can anyone tell me whether this is guitar shape/design or number made?

            I have model number 29 of same guitar and it sounds beautifull and plays with ease…..amazing guitar and i’ve played a few.

          2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar No way!......I have model number 29
            jamesetheridge

            : : : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
            : : : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
            : : : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
            : : : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
            : : : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
            : : : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
            : : : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
            : : : : I would appreciate any information about it .

            : : : Hullo,

            : : : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

            : : : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

            : : I bought my kimbara model 71 back in the mid 70’s whilst comparing it with a guild that cost four times as much and sounded only marginally better. if you want to sell," wizzard guitars" in Doncaster England buy vintage guitars and I’ve seen Kimbaras on their wanted sheet…. But with good strings, you’ll not better it on sound or price, and its vintage.

            :
            : Hello…… i too have a Kimbara Guitar with the same info…ie made especially for london fcn… model number 30….can anyone tell me whether this is guitar shape/design or number made?

      14. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Brian

        Hi,

        I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar, bought over thirty years ago for £30. The label inside reads ‘Specially made in Japan for FCN London Model Number 71 Serial No. 44063’. It has round shaped pearl insets on the frets. It has survived a great number of house moves etc. and has a lovely rich sound.

      15. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        fraser mclaren

        I have a Kimbara, made in Japan for FCN England, Model Number 2/6. I have no idea who made it, or where it came from, but I’ll tell you this – it plays and sounds wonderful – not as good as a quality Martin or Taylor (but then what does?) The difference is, a Martin that sounds as good as my Kimbara would cost at least $3000 and would take ages to mature. If you have a Kimbara, string it up with Martin SP strings, and you’ll be amazed at the quality of the sound. They are rare instruments – not many were made and they were ludicrously cheap, but I for one, would never sell mine.

      16. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        fraser mclaren

        : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
        : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
        : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
        : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
        : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
        : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
        : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
        : : I would appreciate any information about it .

        : Hullo,

        : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

        : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          Pauline (Paignton)

          : : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
          : : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
          : : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
          : : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
          : : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
          : : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
          : : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
          : : : I would appreciate any information about it .

          : : Hullo,

          : : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

          : : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

          >>>>> Hi, I too have the 169 model but mine is 31028, which shows how many of these they were making. I bought it round about 1969 in a music shop in London for around £24. It has a lovely tone. The value of a guitar is how much it would cost you to replace with an equivalent. I won’t be selling mine.
          It’s too valuable to me.

      17. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Geoff

        : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
        : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
        : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
        : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
        : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
        : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
        : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
        : : I would appreciate any information about it .

        : Hullo,

        : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

        : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

        hi,i also own a very old kimbara 12 string also made SPECIALLY for FCN-England,the guitar is was made in japan, and it apparantley belonged to a 50’s blues singer. The FCN is FENDER guitars and i woud’nt sell it fir the world.

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          Abi

          : : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
          : : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
          : : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
          : : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
          : : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
          : : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
          : : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
          : : : I would appreciate any information about it .

          : : Hullo,

          : : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

          : : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

          I have the same Kimbara acoustic model no. 196 specially made in japan for FCN London, with the mosaic round the sound hole…no serial number that i can see though. it was passed down to me and i have no idea where it is from or how much it is worth, if anyone has any information that would be great

          1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
            Graham

            Hi

            I have a Kimbara N96 Custom, bought new in Uxbridge UK in March 1974 and still in perfect condition. It is basically a copy of the world-famous Gibson J200. These guitars were imported from Japan and built to a very high standard.

            I even have the original catalogue and price list covering the Kimbara range at that time. The N 169 ia described as follows: ‘High gloss leo body and sides, multi-inlay to front and back edges, laminated spruce front with fan struts, beautiful mosaic-inlaid soundhole, rosewood bridge with mosaic inlay. Mahogany neck with Spanish heel in natural finish, rosewood fingerboard, nickel silver frets, handsome carved head with mosaic inlay. Gold lacquered fancy machine heads with ivorine rollers, nylon strings. Excellent tone and outstanding value.’

            The price list is dated August 1973 and shows £24.50. You could try applying inflation to that, but the retail price index only dates from 1985.

            Hope this helps.

            1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
              John Dayman

              Hi Abi..bit late on the scene, but could you give the details of the Kimbara Acoustic 8/Y model from the catalogue you have? I’ve just posted another comment, after having made a few adjustments and inadvertently striking gold, playing and sound-wise.
              There’s a load of Japanese writing on the inside label – I’m hoping a Japanese friend can translate when she comes back from holiday.
              Greetings. John.

            2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
              steve

              : Hi

              : I have a Kimbara N96 Custom, bought new in Uxbridge UK in March 1974 and still in perfect condition. It is basically a copy of the world-famous Gibson J200. These guitars were imported from Japan and built to a very high standard.

              : I even have the original catalogue and price list covering the Kimbara range at that time. The N 169 ia described as follows: ‘High gloss leo body and sides, multi-inlay to front and back edges, laminated spruce front with fan struts, beautiful mosaic-inlaid soundhole, rosewood bridge with mosaic inlay. Mahogany neck with Spanish heel in natural finish, rosewood fingerboard, nickel silver frets, handsome carved head with mosaic inlay. Gold lacquered fancy machine heads with ivorine rollers, nylon strings. Excellent tone and outstanding value.’

              : The price list is dated August 1973 and shows £24.50. You could try applying inflation to that, but the retail price index only dates from 1985.

              : Hope this helps.

              1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
                steve

                : : Hi

                : : I have a Kimbara N96 Custom, bought new in Uxbridge UK in March 1974 and still in perfect condition. It is basically a copy of the world-famous Gibson J200. These guitars were imported from Japan and built to a very high standard.

                : : I even have the original catalogue and price list covering the Kimbara range at that time. The N 169 ia described as follows: ‘High gloss leo body and sides, multi-inlay to front and back edges, laminated spruce front with fan struts, beautiful mosaic-inlaid soundhole, rosewood bridge with mosaic inlay. Mahogany neck with Spanish heel in natural finish, rosewood fingerboard, nickel silver frets, handsome carved head with mosaic inlay. Gold lacquered fancy machine heads with ivorine rollers, nylon strings. Excellent tone and outstanding value.’

                : : The price list is dated August 1973 and shows £24.50. You could try applying inflation to that, but the retail price index only dates from 1985.

                : : Hope this helps.

                Hi,
                I too have a trusty Kimbara, 12 string with the V inset in lighter wood on the back.It has the usual label for FCN London made in Japan. I have owned it for about 15 years and paid about £120 if I remember. It has a mellow,warm tone and great action,for a 12. As you say you have a catalogue from yesteryear could you have a look for Model 107. I have NEVER seen or heard of another( not even on this site!) Having read the comments from other owners I will probably not sell it. What’s it’s worth though. Any idea?
                Regards Steve

          2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
            Geoffrey

            : : : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
            : : : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
            : : : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
            : : : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
            : : : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
            : : : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
            : : : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
            : : : : I would appreciate any information about it .

            : : : Hullo,

            : : : I have a Kimbara acoustic guitar that I bought in approx. 1975 for about £36. The label reads: "Kimbara, specially made in Japan for FCN London. Model no. 169 Serial no. 46118" The design is essentially plain but with a mosaic design around the sound hole.

            : : : I am trying to get a value for it so that I can sell it.

            :
            : I have the same Kimbara acoustic model no. 196 specially made in japan for FCN London, with the mosaic round the sound hole…no serial number that i can see though. it was passed down to me and i have no idea where it is from or how much it is worth, if anyone has any information that would be great

            Hi,try looking on e.bay for some very expensive Kimbara’s,i own a 12 string acoustic, model number 180/s, serial number 80823.mine was specialy made for in japan for FCN,i wouldn’t part with it for the world as it still has an original Dean Markley wooden pickup, sounds fabulous through an acoustic amp.value between £400 – £600.

      18. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Mick

        : : Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
        : : accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
        : : and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
        : : it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
        : : and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
        : : the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
        : : FCN.england model no. 8/Y
        : : I would appreciate any information about it .

        Hey I have a kimbara guitar which was given to me by a relation. I figure it’s well over 20 years old but i kno little about this guitar or it’s value. Mine reads inside: Kimbara Specially made in Japan for FCN England Model No. 8/Y. It also fits the description you gave with the pearl trimming and V-shape. I’d never sell it because they’re so rare but i’d love to kno what its worth!

      19. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Tam

        I’ve had mine since the late 70’s. Cost about £60 then. I recall seeing one in a guitar shop in Oxford circa 1986 and the price was £120 or there abouts.

      20. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Gemma Payne

        I have a kimbara acoustic. Black with Red around the edge & Sound hole. It reads
        Kimbara
        Specially Made For
        FCN – England
        Model No. 15/U
        Made In Korea.
        I wanna know what its worth.

      21. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Manuel Madrid

        I traded a Washburn accustic guitar red with gold trim, for this Kimbara accustic guitar model no. N-71, specially made in Japan for FCN-ENGLAND. I really would like to know what it is worth. Looks plain, but plays really well, if any one could tell me what the price of this guitar would has costed brand new, or the value of it now I would really appreciate it.

      22. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        Francis Healy

        I also have acoustic kimbara I swapped for a cd walkman in 1990. It’s from the 70’s. I have written many songs on this guitar. It’s been great. I have since bought many accoustic guitars, Martins, Gibsons, Taylors, Fenders and my Kimbara is still the best. Says "Specially MAde in Japan for FCN London. Model no.71 SN 44042." This accoustic is super plain, no frills. I have no idea what it’s worth

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          Richard sharman

          : I aquired my Kimbara through a house clearance sale in 1989. It reads Kinbara specially made in Japan for FCN-London model no.73 60323 it is indeed a quality guitar and I too have no idea of its origin. I prefer my Martin to be honest but all my mates love it as jammin second guitar. sorry i cant be of any further help. please e-mail me if you find out more. It is as described with the mother of pearl inlay, but my fret inlays are round.

          1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
            m mcdowell

            : I aquired my Kirough a house clearance sale in 1989. It reads Kinbara specially made in Japan for FCN-London model no.73 60323 it is indeed a quality guitar and I too have no idea of its origin. I prefer my Martin to be honest but all my mates love it as jammin second guitar. sorry i cant be of any further help. please e-mail me if you find out more. It is as described with the mother of pearl inlay, but my fret inlays are round.

        2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          Conor Healy

          I also have acoustic kimbara. I got mine in 1994 from one of my family. It says "Specially Made in Japan for FCN London. Model no.73" and I never go anywhere without it!

          1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
            martin

            : I also have acoustic kimbara. I got mine in 1994 from one of my family. It says "Specially Made in Japan for FCN London. Model no.73" and I never go anywhere without it!

            I have one for sale on ebay right now 21/11/07

            1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
              Graham Knight

              Have 12 string and yes specially made in Japan for FCN England. Who were FCN ?
              One of the nicest accoustic guitars I have, although the action was high until professionally sorted recently. Model no. N 107 / 70103. Inlay around perimeter and sound hole v marquetry back. Rosewood fret board with rectangular pearl inlay.
              Bought around ’73 in Bath UK
              Kimbara still trading?
              atb
              Graham, Ipswich.

              1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
                John Dayman

                Hi Graham..me again. Just checked Kimbara out on Wikipedia and there’s more detail there – I’ve got a few things not quite right. They show a picture of a 12 string, possibly the same as yours. I love 12 strings but perhaps not a good idea to have too many – I’ve got a Simon & Patrick Cedar 12 and a Taylor 355, both good but very different sound. John

              2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
                John Dayman

                Hi Graham..weren’t expecting an swift reply to your posting, were you?!! FCN Music distributed Japanese guitars in the UK from late 1960’s to 1990 – acoustics at first, then also solid-bodied guitars from the 1970’s. All based on classic American designs apparently. In 1995 FCN started up again, importing Chinese-built classical and dreadnought guitars. Not sure what FCN stands for.
                One of the submissees(?) said his was Korean made, but they all came from Japan, and as such, were very well made and meticulously crafted. They economised by using laminates but even so, there are some very nice sounding,and looking,guitars out there. Worth holding onto, I reckon.
                Greetings. John

              3. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
                Jim Rush, Portsmouth, UK

                I have a Kimbara acoustic which is an exact copy of the Gibson Humming Bird. I purchased it around 1970 (incidentally it’s a great sound)I would be very interested if anyone can give me any info or a valuation.

                1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
                  Mark Hanson

                  I bought a similar one about 15 years ago for about £150. Model number N 98. Done a bit of digging around and FCN distributed low to mid-range guitars in the 70’s and 80’s. Doubt if you’ll get much more for it now. I keep meaning to buy a new guitar but I just can’t let this one go. It’s a well crafted Hummingbird copy with a deep rich sound that new guitars in that price range fail to match. In fact, there are many more expensive guitars that come nowhere near the sound quality. Reckon mine is about early 70’s.

      23. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
        aitch

        i had a kimbara for christmas in1982. hand crafted in japan for f.n.c. model no. 57/u serial no. 80903.cost about £80 still plays great .don’t know her value but she’s priceless to me.

        1. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          rob burlinson

          hi ive got a kimbara acoustic from around the same era,im trying to find out more about it,has yours got square inlays with green coloured triangles in them……rosewood or mahogany dark fretboard.

        2. Re: kimbara acoustic guitar
          rob burlinson

          hi ive got a kimbara acoustic from around the same era,im trying to find out more about it,has yours got square inlays with green coloured triangles in them……rosewood or mahogany dark fretboard.

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

      Hi i was wondering if anyone could tell me anything about kimbara
      accoustic guitars just came across one, it was made in korea
      and it has square shaped pearl insets on the frets,
      it also has the pearl trim the whole way round the edge of the guitar
      and going up the back of the guitar in a V shape .
      the label on the inside of the guitar says KIMBARA specially made for
      FCN.england model no. 8/Y
      I would appreciate any information about it .

      1. guitar model
        jeff forbister

        hi there i have been given a kimbara 205 x and have no information on this it has been electrfied but dont know if its factory or a home job and i am reolacing battery box as it is broke . i am trying to get it to feel nice as it had a lip down both sides of the neck where fingerboard was glued so scraped and sanded smooth so its begining to feel okay any gen on this would be nice

      2. Kimbara Classical Guitar
        DavidMFoster

        Hello all

        I am looking for some information on a 6 string classical guitar, I’m stumped and cannot find anything on it, any help would be much appreciated.
        On the inside of the guitar it specifies;

        Kimbara
        182
        Specially made in Japan
        For
        FCN-London
        Model No. G 850

        On the inside of the guitar on the hardwood neck base there is the number;

        5 3224

        I don’t understand How to read serial numbers, therefore cannot specify the date of this guitar.

        Kind regards

      3. Kimbara Acoustic Guitar
        Heather Trimnell

        I have a Kimbara Acoustic guitar model 6s that I’m thinking of selling. I bought it in the early 1980s but I have arthritis in my left hand and can’t play it any more. I would rather someone else gets pleasure from it that it just sitting there taunting me. Any idea what the value of this would be? I have someone coming to see it tomorrow and would like some idea how much I should ask for it. I had an electric pick up put inside it professionally about 20 yrs ago.

      4. Kimbata
        Tony Connolly

        Hi. I bought my first kimbara Mitchell’s Canning Town London in 1989 model 6/s I bought two more 6/s on internet
        Now have three on the look out for another. Tony. Coalisland n Ireland. Cheers

      5. Kimbara acoustic guitars .
        Simon Kellow

        I have two Kimbara acoustic guitars one Is model no.2/G & the other one is model no.5/P these are beautiful sounding guitars ! I was given one of them & the other I bought cheap on Ebay , I think they are from the late 1960s or mid 1970s ? These guitars are quite rare so worth looking out for , I play the 2/G everyday & I’ve restored the 5/P recently , Kimbara vintage guitars have a unique special sound!

      6. Kimbara W Series
        Graham Burwood

        I have recently purchased a Kimbara W-250. It is a dreadnought size, solid spruce top with laminate rosewood back and sides. It has a great tone. I was wondering whether there is anyone else out there with a W series Kimbara. They seem to be very rare, and I have not heard of any others.

        It is Japanese made and I think it looks to be around a mid seventies design. the back is divided by a herringbone type pattern stripe and the guitar has mother-of-pearl binding, also round the sound-hole.

        I would love to hear from anyone else who has seen a W-series Kimbara.

        1. classical kimbara
          mumamafia

          I have just brought this kimbara classic/Spanish guitar. don’t know anything about it just that I brought it in a second hand shop for £20. the wood is lovely and the sound is just right.
          it has some kind of number do you know what this is 127/1 only made 127 + of one design?
          thing is ive forgotten how to play, I realy wanna know more about this little jem so any thing would be good to know. thanx im partially sighted so sound is more important than look.

      7. Kimbara guitar fcn 175
        Andrzej K

        I bought my Kimbara in 1983, paying about £60 for it i think. It has only a few small bumps on it and the bridge bone was replaced (and action lowered) only last September. It is in very good condition, given its age and, until last September, played infrequently. Any idea what it might re-sell for?

      8. I also have a Kimbara model 30 it’s single cutaway in blue with ase4 active pick up and equaliser on board. Must have been an attempt to go modern. I remember going into music inn shop in Northamptonshire to buy one of the new craft guitars that were advertised widely in the music press and they had the only left handed one in the Midlands so I travelled 1.5 hours to get it. Next to it they had the Kimbara as the only other left handed guitar. I tried them both and the craft guitar sounded weedy next to it and kept slipping off my lap as it was a shell back. After playing them both the shop staff agreed the Kimbara sounded so much better. ” are they reliable? It’s made in China, do they sell?”
        “Don’t know…it’s the only one we have ever had and it’s sat there for years. None of us are left handed and no one has ever played it and we won’t be getting another”
        So I paid…gulp…£250 for it! Never looked back it has been reliable, sounds good (if you don’t plug it in) and recently I had it professionally set up and the guitar Luther was very impressed with it saying one of the best Chinese guitars he had ever heard and it was in remarkable condition. I recently played a £700 Taylor and was disappointed with the sound compared to mine. I suspect mine is worth nothing second hand but doesn’t matter as I would never sell it. They are the Sigma of their day!

      9. I have a kimbara model no
        ryan grant evans

        I have a kimbara model no 201 which I play a lot it is an electro acoustic which I brought for 50 pounds and I am trying to see how old it is can anybody help me with this please?

      10. I have a kimbara model193/G
        Anonymous

        I have a kimbara model193/G ive had it for over 20 years but after reading everyones comments i seem to have the only one made in peoples republic of china but still for fcn tonebridge london. Has anyone else got one that could give me some information on it. Its a beautifully rich sounding guitar and thought a total bargain at just £30

      11. I have a kimbara classical 6 nylon string specially made in Japan for FCN-London model no. N27 so I assume it is one of the early ones from around 1980 on it has mahogany back and sides with light front maybe spruce I am not sure no pearl dots or markings on the board just 5th 7th 9th and 12th dots on the side, plain looking but nice sound, I paid about £50 in 1990

      12. re-Kimbara acoustic guitar
        simon jeanpierre

        hi, i have a Kimbara classical model N-169 and the old looking label reads “specially made in japan for F&N – London”. notice, not FCN. I think its a sixties guitar? no serial number on the label just some numbers on the brace under the top reading
        43 0 25…maybe someone out there knows and can help me out to date it ?
        A solid cedar top and the most amazing sounding broad- striped solid Brazillian rosewood back and sides. it has a litho rosette and the same motif running up the middle of the headstock ,a rosewood pinned bridge and rosewood fingerboard. rosewood faced headstock,bone nut, nice black and gold binding give this guitar a simple yet elegant look.
        Now, back to the sound. I am recording with it at the moment, a percussive piece using finger taps all over and i swear it (the sound) literally jumps out of the sound hole with marvelous resonant lows and highs, basically the full range, with such natural reverb, its an acoustic joy.Taping the bridge is a shock.plays as well as it sounds too!
        The back was coming away in a two inch section under the heel but a dab of super glue and the majic ten seconds and hey presto.Its really dusty and grimey inside but i think to clean it would be a shame as all i have done is lem oiled the neck
        I bought it in a charity shop in penzance recently for forty quid and as soon as i picked it up i was playing fluently which is a good sign i think.I reakon i would have to shell out at least five hundred for a modern equivalent and then its debatable if it will have the sound. Anyway ive seen the seventies versions on ebay for £200 ish and at that i think these are excellent buys , if you can get a real bargain for any less grab it as i really rate these “nearly old as me” guitars.Its my only guitar and will stay that way.

        1. KIMBARA CLASSICAL GUITAR
          Mary

          Hello Simon
          I may have similar guitar to yours. Label in mine says “KIMBARA CLASSICAL SPECIALLY MADE IN JAPAN FOR
          F & N – LONDON. Your description sounds as if it could fit my guitar, tho I don’t know enough to recognise the different woods myself. This was bought in 1960’s by my friend’s father. Can’t see any numbers anywhere. I have some photos. Mine seems in very good condition. Can’t see how to upload photos here.

      13. Kimbara Guitar Model No. 3/J
        SteveE

        Ive just been given this Kimbara 3/J to overhaul. Anyone know its age / place of manufacture at all? Its a single cutaway semi-acoustic with an oval soundhole, a pick-up under the bridge and 2 controls near the neck. Cheers

      14. kimbara 29L
        mark

        Hi, I am one of it sems many kimbara fans. I aquired one a good few years back. An electeo acoustic version made in Korea. Just trying to find out a bit more about it. What woods were used etc . Thanks if anyone has any info 😉

      15. Kimbara acoustic guitar
        Anonymous

        I would like to know the history & the value of model number 178/L, serial number 80631, if anyone can offer me any information, I’d be very greatful, many thanks:-)

        1. Kimbara 178L
          colinm

          how weird i have been looking for nearly 7 years to find another kimbara like the one I have, mine is serial 80622 just below yours. did you get a value for yours. how long have you owned it for. I havent been able to trace mine back to anyone else either

        2. kimbara 178L
          COLINM

          how weird i have been looking for nearly 7 years to find another kimbara like the one I have, mine is serial 80622 just below yours. did you get a value for yours. how long have you owned it for

      16. kimbara 3/J
        Toni evans

        hi!! my immaculate 3/j is in near perfect condition with minor slight markings only. original shop stickers etc…. city of London music store… think it’s possibly older than me…. (not tellin). any ideas of possible value?

      17. kimbara model number 74
        andy benatead

        i have a kimbara acoustic model number 74 specialy made in japan for fcn london igot it for 45 quid should have been 75 quid, its well worn down now it needs some attention to the frets its had that much use , sounds fantastic before it got to worn it was bought in september 1974 by my father for my 16th birthday so its coming up to be 38 dose this make it vintage

        1. kimbara no 74
          Anonymous

          Andy, you are first person I have come across with a Kimbara Model no 74 so perhaps they are rare. My late husband had this model and I am trying to get an idea of its value. Has your guitar got a decorated vertical ‘stripe’ up the back? Joan

      18. Kimbara
        Anonymous

        I purchased a Kimbara 6 -stringed guitar model number N-27 specially made in Japan for London FCN
        and was wondering whether anyone can help provide any information regarding makers, age and history, etc?

      19. kIMBARA 12 STRING ACOUSTIC
        STEVE BROWN

        Hi,I have a 1977 12 string acoustic .This is a really nice and am told rare model .Its been in my loft for 15 years and now re strung sounds great.

      20. Japanese built Kimbara accoustic guitar - model 8/Y
        Peanuts

        I’ve been given a Japanese-built Kimbara 8/Y (Serial No. 10618). It appears that this may have been built in the late 70’s/early 80’s. It’s a beautiful guitar and its tone is wonderful. Can anyone shed any further light on this? I know that it’s in the upper end of the Kimbara market, but wondered if anyone is aware of its actual value?

    1. Re: Teisco-DelRay EV-2T
      JH

      : One of my friends has a Teisco-DelRay EV-2T guitar, and is wondering the estimated value? It is in really good shape, except it needs minor problems with the wiring fixed. Please reply(if only a "ballpark" estimate) your time is greatly appreciated! Thanks! Ed Cordle

      I was given one of these by my cousin years ago and had it laying around my house as a toy. One day one of my musically inclined friends had returned from NYC and told me he saw one for sale for $300. I got excited and stopped banging mine around on the bed. This was ~12 yrs ago (1994ish). I don’t know what that means in today’s dollars.

    2. Re: Teisco-DelRay EV-2T
      JH

      : One of my friends has a Teisco-DelRay EV-2T guitar, and is wondering the estimated value? It is in really good shape, except it needs minor problems with the wiring fixed. Please reply(if only a "ballpark" estimate) your time is greatly appreciated! Thanks! Ed Cordle

      I was given one of these by my cousin years ago and had it laying around my house as a toy. One day one of my musically inclined friends had returned from NYC and told me he saw one for sale for $300. I got excited and stopped banging mine around on the bed. This was ~12 yrs ago (1994ish). I don’t know what that means in today’s dollars.

      1. Re: Teisco-DelRay EV-2T
        Reverend MT

        : : One of my friends has a Teisco-DelRay EV-2T guitar, and is wondering the estimated value? It is in really good shape, except it needs minor problems with the wiring fixed. Please reply(if only a "ballpark" estimate) your time is greatly appreciated! Thanks! Ed Cordle

        :
        : I was given one of these by my cousin years ago and had it laying around my house as a toy. One day one of my musically inclined friends had returned from NYC and told me he saw one for sale for $300. I got excited and stopped banging mine around on the bed. This was ~12 yrs ago (1994ish). I don’t know what that means in today’s dollars.

        One of my friends…come on the ev-2t is cooler than f_ck, body shape, head stock -can you afford a real vintage vox phantom-hell no! dont sell it ,pawn something else, its 60s made in Japan id say over a thousand just for the look of it. But keep it!

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

      One of my friends has a Teisco-DelRay EV-2T guitar, and is wondering the estimated value? It is in really good shape, except it needs minor problems with the wiring fixed. Please reply(if only a "ballpark" estimate) your time is greatly appreciated! Thanks! Ed Cordle

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