Yamaha SGV500S Flying Samurai Black 2001
Yamaha SGV500S, black, made in Taiwan 2001. The Flying Samurai series launched in 1967 as some of Yamaha's first ever solid body electric guitars. It's gotta be one of the coolest body shapes ever, but it was shortlived; the line was discontinued in 1972. The series was briefly re-booted in 2000 for a year or two, updated with modern hardware and electronics. We've had a bunch of SGV300 examples through the shop, but this SGV500S model with the two wide-format pickups and a Tune-O-Matic and stoptail bridge setup are a bit harder to find. The pickups are great: they're closer to a JM-style pancake wind than a P90, so the output is on the medium-low side, but they're super clear and snappy with heaps of breath through the mids. It sounds a fair bit like a Jazzmaster, but with the added assertive clarity in the attack that comes from the hardtail bridge. It's lightweight and comfy to hold, with a slim quick neck and reliable hardware, so it's remarkably practical for a decidedly oddball character. The tuxedo finish is classic, grounding the aesthetic with a little bit of understated charm; it will look baller on stage. Smart folks love this, are you smart?
Model: Yamaha SGV500S Flying Samurai
Made: Taiwan, 2001
Serial: HN02184
Finish: Black, gloss poly
Body: alder
Neck: maple, rosewood fretboard, 24.75" scale, 12" radius, slim C shape
Weight: 3.670kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Yamaha Original alnico V single coil x2
Accessories: basic Yamaha gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has scuffs on the end and some a chip on the bottom edge near the 'SGV' decal and some scuffs around the posts on the front. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor scuffs and rub wear on the back only. The back has dimples around the cavity cover and some scuffs in the elbow area, bottom horn and middle of the body. The sides have minor scuffs on the top horn, elbow area and bottom horn and some dimples near the jack. The front has dimples on the back edge near the rear strap pin, scuffs around the tailpiece and some play wear on the guard and horns.
Overall: excellent condition (9/10)
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Wearing fresh 11/49 Moonshiners strings.
Fret life: 9/10, minor wear only