American Vintage Guitar

Dealers in the finest, rarest guitars and amps in the world. 1950’s and 1960’s Tele’s, Strat’s and Les Paul’s, Martin’s etc, and home of the real 1958-1960 Les Paul Burst’s.

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Epiphone ES-339 Semi-Hollowbody Thinline Guitar

694 thoughts on “American Vintage Guitar”

  1. Re: Dealers in the finest, rarest guitars and amps in the... American Vintage Guitar
    Roy

    I have a recco guitar acutually recently was given to me by a close friend… But really no need for it was just wanting to sell it to someone who could actually put it to somegood use if not it’ll just collect dust.. But if interested you can email me at my address [email protected]..

  2. Fender f-75
    Dwight

    I have a Fender F-75 that’s is like new. It was a gift in 1976 and has had very little use. It has been in the hard case that it came it since then. I am willing to sell it. Thx Dwight

  3. ELK bass amps
    azhar

    Hi there, I have an ELK bass amp and I would like to know more of its history. My amp is not using tube but can I mod it using tubes? Thanks.

  4. Re: GUYA G TONE
    CRAIG ;

    : I HAVE A GUYA G TONE STEEL GUITAR 6 STRING FOR SALE, BUT I DON’T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THEM, I DON’T KNOW WHAT THEY ARE WORTH OR HOW OLD THE GUITAR IS.

  5. 2242 super rock electra
    kendell webb

    does anybody know about what this guitar is worth. My dad passed away a left a few guitars behind. I dont want to sell it just really would like to know if its worth anything

  6. korean telecaster
    Willow

    I’m trying to determine the worth of a korean made fender telecaster. Solid ash,butterscotch blonde,maple neck,abalone inlays,seymour duncan pick-up(the other 1 is silver?)classic bridge.It’s probably about 5 or 6 years old,it seems nicer than any mexican I’ve seen. Serial # 04041144 I paid $500 and I want to sell but don’t want to be unfair to self or buyer.Help please-QUICK.

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

      I was given an old Elk 50W Echo Amp, but it had been completely cannibalised – no tubes remain at all. I have no knowledge whatsoever about any of the technical stuff you guys are all talking about, but my grandfather used to do electronics. He’s sure he can get it back in perfect running order, but without a schematic there’s not much he can do, apparently. Having combed through all the posts, there is a lot of different information from different sources, so I’m hoping I can get some consolidated info on exactly what he needs to know to put things back in order… I can’t wait to get my guitars hooked up to this apparently kickass amp…
      Thanks, Mike

  7. Acoustic Identification Problems
    Sean

    I have an old acoustic I found in a pump shed. I cleaned it up, it plays great. It’s Japanese stamped on the back of the neck, and the sticker inside reads Knox Corp, Beverly Hills, California. I am simply looking for a little history on it. Any feedback would be much appreciated.
    Thank You

    1. Knox guitar
      John

      Hello,
      I also recently acquired a Knox guitar with a black Knox label inside stating Beverly Hills Corp. with a number inside
      19 865. Mine says Knox by the tuners. Mine has no Japanese markings. I found the following information on a search dealing with a Knox electric guitar but the name “Knox” was identical. Hope it helps.

      “1960’s Knox
      It is a unknown Knox model 2 pickup Electric Guitar from the 1960’s with 2 goldfoil pickups. I have a second Knox guitar that is very similar to this one but with a much larger pickguard.
      The Teisco brand name stands for ‘Tokyo Electric Instrument and Sound Company’. Teisco was founded in 1946 by renowned Hawaiian and Spanish guitarist Atswo Kaneko, and electrical engineer Doryu Matsuda. Teisco guitars sold in the United States were badged “Teisco Del Rey” beginning in 1964. Teisco guitars were also imported in the U.S. under several brand names including Silvertone, Jedson, Kent, Kingston, Kimberly, Tulio, Heit Deluxe and World Teisco. While guitars manufactured by Teisco were ubiquitous in their day, they are now very collectable.”

  8. ELK amplifier - tubes ?
    mark

    Hi !

    I have an ELK amplifier (it says "Viking Bass" on front)
    It is in very bad condition, but I want to fix it.

    It is a strange amp, using two push-pull output transformers
    in parallel. Secundairy windings are connected in series.

    It has a miniature 8-pin tubesocket next to the input (for 12a..7 ?), going to a miniature 8-pin socket wired for something like a 6bq5 (derived from the connections, wired as a triode), going into an interstage tranny, into two push-pull sections each on their own output transformer, wich outputs are wired in series…..

    output valves could be EL34’s or 6l6’s

    Has anybody seen this kind of amp before and know what tubes are used ?

    Cheers,

    Mark

    1. Re: ELK amplifier - tubes ?
      Basshog

      Mark,

      It uses 4 6CA7 power tubes.

      Here is a link to the schematic.

      http://www.drtube.com/schematics/elk/vkb-100.gif

      Hope that helps.

      : Hi !

      : I have an ELK amplifier (it says "Viking Bass" on front)
      : It is in very bad condition, but I want to fix it.

      : It is a strange amp, using two push-pull output transformers
      : in parallel. Secundairy windings are connected in series.

      : It has a miniature 8-pin tubesocket next to the input (for 12a..7 ?), going to a miniature 8-pin socket wired for something like a 6bq5 (derived from the connections, wired as a triode), going into an interstage tranny, into two push-pull sections each on their own output transformer, wich outputs are wired in series…..

      : output valves could be EL34’s or 6l6’s

      : Has anybody seen this kind of amp before and know what tubes are used ?

      : Cheers,

      : Mark

      1. Re: ELK amplifier - tubes ?
        Hennie Pitzer

        Mark, you were right .It uses an el84 as a driver and 4 6ca7 output tubes. Tip: get rid of that driver tranny and use a normal phase inv.Check out the voltages on the 12ax7,s they are connected for 12v Ps had one here in South Africa

        : http://www.drtube.com/schematics/elk/vkb-100.gif

        : Hope that helps.

        : : Hi !

        : : I have an ELK amplifier (it says "Viking Bass" on front)
        : : It is in very bad condition, but I want to fix it.

        : : It is a strange amp, using two push-pull output transformers
        : : in parallel. Secundairy windings are connected in series.

        : : It has a miniature 8-pin tubesocket next to the input (for 12a..7 ?), going to a miniature 8-pin socket wired for something like a 6bq5 (derived from the connections, wired as a triode), going into an interstage tranny, into two push-pull sections each on their own output transformer, wich outputs are wired in series…..

        : : output valves could be EL34’s or 6l6’s

        : : Has anybody seen this kind of amp before and know what tubes are used ?

        : : Cheers,

        : : Mark

      2. Re: ELK amplifier - tubes ?
        Hennie Pitzer

        Mark, you were right .It uses an el84 as a driver and 4 6ca7 output tubes. Tip: get rid of that driver tranny and use a normal phase inv.Check out the voltages on the 12ax7,s they are connected for 12v Ps had one here in South Africa
        : It uses 4 6CA7 power tubes.

        : Here is a link to the schematic.

        : http://www.drtube.com/schematics/elk/vkb-100.gif

        : Hope that helps.

        : : Hi !

        : : I have an ELK amplifier (it says "Viking Bass" on front)
        : : It is in very bad condition, but I want to fix it.

        : : It is a strange amp, using two push-pull output transformers
        : : in parallel. Secundairy windings are connected in series.

        : : It has a miniature 8-pin tubesocket next to the input (for 12a..7 ?), going to a miniature 8-pin socket wired for something like a 6bq5 (derived from the connections, wired as a triode), going into an interstage tranny, into two push-pull sections each on their own output transformer, wich outputs are wired in series…..

        : : output valves could be EL34’s or 6l6’s

        : : Has anybody seen this kind of amp before and know what tubes are used ?

        : : Cheers,

        : : Mark

  9. stolen rare guitar
    joe wood

    can any one help me find one of the rarest fender jags ever made blue metal flake matching head stock brown flake pick gard mid 60s april fools day reward 562 522 9329 phone

  10. Gibson SG Custom 1976 vintage Guitar and Greco Super sound Strat, Scalloped neeck Vintage Guitar
    Amatt K.

    following guitars for sail:
    1) Gibson SG customs 1976 made in USA. with 3 humbucking pick ups and gold plated hardwear. and buitl in bridge tromolo arm.
    2) Greco Super Sound scalloped neck made in Japan pretty old as 70’s or 80’s modle,Iam not sure of the manufacturing date.
    Both in very good working condition, almost mint condition.
    If interested do let me know so I can send you the pictures, and serial numbers for your varifacton. and your offer. thankyou.

    1. Re: 1945 Gibson L7 For Sale
      serge

      : I have a 1945 Gibson L-7 with a 1952 D’Armond pickup installed. It comes with the original case.
      you have a pictures please tank you
      :
      : The 1994 Blue Book says this guitar (Without pickup) is worth $2,500.00 in mint condition. I recently had Andy Brauer, a world class guitar luthier in Los Angeles do a complete renovation on the guitar. ([email protected]). Andy says you may contact him if you like. The guitar is in excellent condition. It cost me $700.00 to get it that way.

      :
      : I want the 1994 blue book price and you pay shipping.

      :
      : Mr. Thomas Watts
      : 3006 Memphis St.
      : Fort Smith, AR.
      : 72901
      : (479) 646-1027
      : [email protected]

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

      I have a 1945 Gibson L-7 with a 1952 D’Armond pickup installed. It comes with the original case.

      The 1994 Blue Book says this guitar (Without pickup) is worth $2,500.00 in mint condition. I recently had Andy Brauer, a world class guitar luthier in Los Angeles do a complete renovation on the guitar. ([email protected]). Andy says you may contact him if you like. The guitar is in excellent condition. It cost me $700.00 to get it that way.

      I want the 1994 blue book price and you pay shipping.

      Mr. Thomas Watts
      3006 Memphis St.
      Fort Smith, AR.
      72901
      (479) 646-1027
      [email protected]

  11. 1976 fender strat
    john hanson

    i have a 1976 orginal 3 bolt strat the neck has been played to distruction…. could a neck from a 97 usa strat fit ?….john

  12. Guild Starfire Three
    Allan Webster

    I have a Guild Starfire Three and bought it second hand in 1969 it’s serial no is EK-793 which dates it to 1966 year of production.
    It is in great condition and sounds great what would it be worth, not that I want to sell it.
    Thanks

    1. Re: f 85
      Dave Evans

      Looks like these were made in 70’s. With a case they’re going for about $400 US. Do a Google search and you’ll find some links.
      Dave :o)

  13. 1950 Gibson
    Pam

    I am trying to find out the value of my dad’s old Gibson acoustic guitar. I found out from the company, that according to the numbers printed inside of it, the guitar was made in 1950. If anyone can point me in the right direction I would really appreciate it.

    Thank you.

  14. elk eb202 head info wanted
    mark

    have elk eb202 twinamp 45 head looking for any info my tube layout is

    5ar4 6L6 6L6 12ax7 ecc85 12ax7 12ax7 12ax7
    1st6L6 tube overheats&volume drops to 0 after 15 min
    i have the twin-amp 50 schematic thks much

  15. Guyatone
    Jay D. Bickel

    My son is playing an old guyatone guitar in Jazz Band at school. It belonged to his Band insstructor who made it and what it worth Just curious, it sounds really nice

    1. Re: Guyatone
      Scott

      I still have my Guyatone I got in 1967 when I was 10. It still sounds great. 4 single-voice pickups. I has an epoxy coated neck. My daughter plays it too…

    2. Re: Guyatone
      chuck

      i bought one in 1966, my first guitar, i paid 38.99 for it at a gibson dept. store in ft. worth, tx. it was mij under the same name and was marketed in canada as regent guitars and in the u.s. later as kent guitars. it is in the same catagory (some say better) as teisco its competator, some say there was some interfacing between the 2 companies. i really enjoyed it and wish i still had it, it played great and sounded great. i found this while surfing 4 another!!!

  16. WANTED!!!! - FENDER STARCASTER
    Jon

    Hi all I am looking for a Fender Starcaster in good condition, in either Sunburst or Black. If anyone can help, then please get in touch. Thanks.

    1. Re: ELK Miyuki Guitar and Bass Amps
      Drew-ski

      : Someone was looking for information regarding ELK Guitar and Bass Amplifier Equipment. ELK was the Miyuki Co. Inc. in Tokyo Japan making tube amplifiers. One ELK model is the Fender Bassman like "Twin Amp 60", found in 50 and 60 watt versions, which also contains vibrato and reverb (not found on the Bassman Head). The power transformers appear to be the weak part of their products so make sure the voltage tap is set right and put a small fan or blower on the back of the amp to move air through the chassis. The classic layout uses and EL-34 output for some very nice tone…

      : cheers,
      : skipp
      : radiowrench.com/sonic

      Look, I also own two Elk amplifiers, A Custom Amp 30 and a Custom Amp 60 which just arrived today from Canton Mississippi. The first I wrote a review at another site.

      The second Amp (ELK Custom 60) I’m awaiting the amp schematic from a Viking 60 in which a amp tech scribbled some notes on the difference between the two.

      I’m working on bringing back the third chassis (ELK Custom Amp 30) that been with me a while. I’ve either miss-read a value of a Capacitor due to poor eye sight or something..

      If this is still a good address for you write back and lets talk tech..

      Sites that Ive been too:
      reviews.harmony-central.com/reviews/Guitar+Amp/product/ELK+Miyuki/Elk+Custom+Amp+30/10/1

      drtube.com/guitamp.htm

      Related Article:
      Portable Bass Amp

      1. Re: ELK Miyuki Guitar and Bass Amps
        cinot

        please help -newbie with Elk question(s)

        Hey there, I have a elk custom 30 with 2×10 cab that I have been slowly restoring. I know these came with two 4Ω 10" speakers. So my question is where these wired parallel or series? I want to hook up 2 8ohm speakers on hand, but debating finding some 4ohm-even then not sure series or parallel. I cannot find schematic..The cab came empty when i got it and there is no marking on amp to determine what it is putting out. Does anyone have a clue?

        On top of that I have a custom 100 elk-but can’t find anything on it and need a schematic, has anyone heard of this one? It’s been modded so definitely a project. Thanks!

    2. Re: ELK Miyuki Guitar and Bass Amps
      larry grobe

      Hi, Skip. I’ve owned 2 elk/ echo amps. Not much info out there. Both
      my amps were toast when I got them. One i turned into something else, and the last one i got running. The one BIG THING I noticed was those old oil filled coupling caps WILL leak lots of volts. The resistors seem
      to be all in the ballpark. I would suggest replacing all the coupling caps
      that havehigh DC voltage on them…….Larry : Someone was looking for information regarding ELK Guitar and Bass Amplifier Equipment. ELK was the Miyuki Co. Inc. in Tokyo Japan making tube amplifiers. One ELK model is the Fender Bassman like "Twin Amp 60", found in 50 and 60 watt versions, which also contains vibrato and reverb (not found on the Bassman Head). The power transformers appear to be the weak part of their products so make sure the voltage tap is set right and put a small fan or blower on the back of the amp to move air through the chassis. The classic layout uses and EL-34 output for some very nice tone…

      : cheers,
      : skipp
      : http://www.radiowrench.com/sonic

      1. Re: ELK Miyuki Guitar and Bass Amps
        Bryan Holden

        Were are the coupling caps located? And what do oil filled caps look like?

        Bryan

        : Hi, Skip. I’ve owned 2 elk/ echo amps. Not much info out there. Both
        : my amps were toast when I got them. One i turned into something else, and the last one i got running. The one BIG THING I noticed was those old oil filled coupling caps WILL leak lots of volts. The resistors seem
        : to be all in the ballpark. I would suggest replacing all the coupling caps
        : that havehigh DC voltage on them…….Larry

        1. Re: ELK Miyuki Guitar and Bass Amps
          paul jensen

          : Were are the coupling caps located? And what do oil filled caps look like?

          : Bryan

          I grew up in thialand and ahd an elk guitar ever seen any

          : : Hi, Skip. I’ve owned 2 elk/ echo amps. Not much info out there. Both
          : : my amps were toast when I got them. One i turned into something else, and the last one i got running. The one BIG THING I noticed was those old oil filled coupling caps WILL leak lots of volts. The resistors seem
          : : to be all in the ballpark. I would suggest replacing all the coupling caps
          : : that havehigh DC voltage on them…….Larry

        2. Re: ELK Miyuki Guitar and Bass Amps
          Bryan

          Correction, Where are the coupling caps located. Are oil filled caps only for the echo model? I have an Elk Pro-Sonic EB103S.

          On a side note, my Elk has only two prongs for the power cord. Is it possible to convert this to a three prong (grounded polarized) system. Would this be beneficial?
          : Were are the coupling caps located? And what do oil filled caps look like?

          : Bryan

          : : Hi, Skip. I’ve owned 2 elk/ echo amps. Not much info out there. Both
          : : my amps were toast when I got them. One i turned into something else, and the last one i got running. The one BIG THING I noticed was those old oil filled coupling caps WILL leak lots of volts. The resistors seem
          : : to be all in the ballpark. I would suggest replacing all the coupling caps
          : : that havehigh DC voltage on them…….Larry

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

      Someone was looking for information regarding ELK Guitar and Bass Amplifier Equipment. ELK was the Miyuki Co. Inc. in Tokyo Japan making tube amplifiers. One ELK model is the Fender Bassman like "Twin Amp 60", found in 50 and 60 watt versions, which also contains vibrato and reverb (not found on the Bassman Head). The power transformers appear to be the weak part of their products so make sure the voltage tap is set right and put a small fan or blower on the back of the amp to move air through the chassis. The classic layout uses and EL-34 output for some very nice tone…

      cheers,
      skipp
      radiowrench.com/sonic

      Related Article:
      Did you know you can now buy Portable Bass Amps?

    1. Re: Guitars Wanted
      Rick Kantner (via moderator)

      I have a 1970 Gretsch Country Gentleman, walnut brown. It plays and sounds great. The tuning keys are repalacement Grover. As is typical of this era of Gents the binding is yellowed and cracked and chipping. I can send pictures if you want. I would like $1000.00 for it.

  17. michel electric guitar
    Daniel Leduc

    my dad has a electric michel model LG #40 he bought it in late 50’s and it was use then. he want’s to know more about it

  18. I was wondering if anyone can help me, I have the guitar that appears on Jeff Becks Beckology album cover. Would anyone know what it would be worth??
    Thanks

    1. Re: Price
      Elvis

      : Any idea what a Guya tone electric guitar (1968) is worth ?

      : Not real sure . My dad bought
      one in Japan in the early 60’s for "$47 and change."
      I have it now.Guya S-G10 Semi-acoustic. up graded the
      pick ups in 65. Hope this helps.

  19. 70's gibson sg value
    Gordon

    I have a 74-74 Gibson SG Standard, Limited Edition 1, American made. I was thinking of selling it in the 600’s, but can’t any solid information on value on the web. Generally who is qualified to make such valuations. Do you just hop from music store to music store looking for some consensus?

  20. Vintage Fender acoustic guitar
    R. King

    I am need information on early 70’s high quality tonewood, American made Fender flattop full sized dreadnought styled guitars and their values. Thanks.

  21. 1982 Les Paul Custom Silverburst
    MrC

    I’m the original owner of a 1982 Les Paul Custom Silverburst. The piece is in excellent condition, all original parts, no modifications, and has not turned green. I love this unit, but just don’t play anymore. I’m considering selling it. Email if you are seriously interested. lespaul (at) mikecappella (dot) com

  22. NATIONAL triple neck (table) steel guitar - valuation
    Daryl Hoitt

    I have a great vintage National brand triple neck table style steel guitar. Any info about these ? Let me know anything about it – an idea of value and market would be helpful

  23. need help? 1970"s electra les paul guitar
    rachel

    1970"s electra les paul guitar guy says he bought it in 1974 pearl inlays and gold on it does anyone know what the value of this would be thanks

    1. F85
      John Fjeldsted

      If you are looking for a F85 I have one,have owned it for many years,but have not been able to use it as I have arthritis in my hands. The guitar is very mint with a hard case. I don’t really know what they may be worth anymore. I am in Manitoba Canada.

  24. Re: Need info on old guitar
    Lori Blattner

    Here at Stars Guitars in Cedar Rapids Iowa, we have a (Electra) Howard Roberts Fusion guitar, I’m looking into more info on them and possible worth, I’ve taken it to ebay and there is no guitars of this make to be found at this time.

    1. Re: ELK viking bass 115
      Jamie

      Upon closer inspection of the serial no. I have noticed that the serial is actually not "01074" but is in fact "U1074" which leaves me even more muddled. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.
      Jamie

      1. Re: ELK viking bass 115
        Jerry S. from Belgium (via moderator)

        Hi,

        I recently bought a used ELK VIKING BASS (not 115) amp stack. Mine was made at the "Matsumuku?" plant in Japan and has Serial No. 1030. It’s a 50 watt amp (2xEL84) ECC83 pre-amp and a weird valve (some small EL84) driving the EL84’s.
        Mine is in very nice condition. It came with a rather large 2×12" cab, but no speakers. I have currently installer 2 vintage (1972) 12" Eminence Alnico’s and it sounds faboulous!.
        I have no idea whatsoever when the amp was made since there are no dating codes whatsoever present. But the Elk Viking Bass head seams to fit with the Cab, since on the cab there is besides the "ELK" logo also a "ELk-BASS" logo on the speaker grille. Very cool amp imho.

    2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Jamie (via moderator)
      Jamie (via moderator)

      Hi if anyone could help me out.
      About a year ago I bought a Elk Viking bass 115 4 chanel bass amp.
      Through searching the internet for information I am led to believe that it was manufactured by the Matsumoku plant. Can anyone tell me if that is correct?
      The serial no. on the back states "01074" which leads me to believe that it was manufatured in 1974, by looking at the last 2 digits, but I have little knowledge of what the first 3 digits represents. Any ideas? Also next to the serial no. is a code "280 VA" any ideas on what that means.
      Finally as I’m not too clued up on electrics I’m wondering if anyone might know wether this amp is a valve amp?
      I’d appreciate any input anyone may be able to bring to my attention.
      Kind Regards
      Jamie

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