SG's: Opinions and Insights, Please!

[charlie brown]

Hey CB,,,

 

As a Zappa fan I may be somewhat biased but,, I would take a serious look at the "Roxy SG".

If you want versatility this definitely has it. The write up claims that is still maintains the "vintage reissue sound" which

was equipped with P90s.

 

cut/paste from Gibson site.

_______________________________________________________________

""Zappa’s original SG Special was an early ’60s model with a fast, slim neck profile and the smaller pickguard characteristic of the era, which would have been made with P-90 pickups originally. While it reflects the heavily modified state of FZ’s guitar, the Frank Zappa® “Roxy” SG still functions perfectly as a straight-up vintage-reissue SG when desired.""

__________________________________________________________________

 

http://www2.gibson.com/Products/Electric-Guitars/SG/Gibson-USA/Frank-Zappa-Roxy-SG.aspx

 

Don't let that msrp scare you off. Here it retails for $2200 Canadian.

 

I am in the process of figuring out how to get my left nut removed for this baby..

 

Were you (really) talking to me, quapman...or darling67? (We have the same Avatar (McCartney) photo!) LOL

 

I looked at a Zappa Roxy SG, last time I was in Wichita. Nice Guitar...but, I think my next SG

(IF there's going to be one) will be a Custom!

 

CB

[darling67]

Were you (really) talking to me, quapman...or darling67? (We have the same Avatar (McCartney) photo!) LOL

 

I looked at a Zappa Roxy SG, last time I was in Wichita. Nice Guitar...but, I think my next SG

(IF there's going to be one) will be a Custom!

 

CB

 

charlie brown, I noticed that we had the same avatar when this thread began—it was obvious, after all. Luckily, I've been able to differentiate the two from yours looking like it got warped a bit. But, we obviously have good taste in guitars as well as those who play them!

 

Thanks for the tip, quapman. I am heading over to Guitar Center tomorrow afternoon to check-out what P-90 models that have/can still order for me, and to maybe try whatever models they might have in-store. That Frank Zappa model doesn't have P-90's, I don't believe. I'd check out the Townshend model, however... although a white guitar is not at the top of my finishes list.

 

The SG Standard P-90 is definitely in the running—just wish they offered it in maybe a cream or natural finish, and not just that typical cherry. The "50's Tribute" looks like it could meet my requirements.... absence of a pick guard, notwithstanding.

[quapman]

Were you (really) talking to me, quapman...or darling67? (We have the same Avatar (McCartney) photo!) LOL

 

I looked at a Zappa Roxy SG, last time I was in Wichita. Nice Guitar...but, I think my next SG

(IF there's going to be one) will be a Custom!

 

CB

 

 

:blink:

 

 

Dudes,,, are you guys messing with my well stimulated and chemically seasoned mind????

 

Ok,, new avatar rule.. duplicates not allowed...lol.

 

My bad. Sorry CB,, I didn't even notice. Yes. I guess I was talking to Darling.

 

fak this, where's my bong. lol..

[darling67]

:blink:

 

 

Dudes,,, are you guys messing with my well stimulated and chemically seasoned mind????

 

Ok,, new avatar rule.. duplicates not allowed...lol.

 

My bad. Sorry CB,, I didn't even notice. Yes. I guess I was talking to Darling.

 

fak this, where's my bong. lol..

 

Haha! I changed my avatar....

[charlie brown]

Haha! I changed my avatar....

 

 

Thanks, darling67 I've had that Avatar photo here, for years, now.

(Not that it wasn't ok, for you to use it, too...but, it does get, and was a bit confusing,

for me, as well. LOL)

 

CB

[darling67]

Thanks, darling67 I've had that Avatar photo here, for years, now.

(Not that it wasn't ok, for you to use it, too...but, it does get, and was a bit confusing,

for me, as well. LOL)

 

CB

 

No problem, CB... but it doesn't appear as if my avatar change took! Hmmmmm.....

 

There we go! It's my "picture"—not "avatar"!

[darling67]

Ok, so my trip to Guitar Center, this afternoon, reaped minimal information. They didn't have any of the models of SG's that I am considering...

 

But they DID have a very cool SG VOS with P-90's in a very cool "TV Yellow" finish. It's out of my price range but, had I been able to, I'd have taken it home with me today! What I can't understand is why this particular guitar is available ONLY in the Heritage Cherry finish, on the Gibson web site, yet I find a TV Yellow model in a store? Does this mean I might find different finishes, on other models, not shown on this very site? You'd think THIS place would be the end-all of information on what exactly is available.

 

[charlie brown]

Ok, so my trip to Guitar Center, this afternoon, reaped minimal information. They didn't have any of the models of SG's that I am considering...

 

But they DID have a very cool SG VOS with P-90's in a very cool "TV Yellow" finish. It's out of my price range but, had I been able to, I'd have taken it home with me today! What I can't understand is why this particular guitar is available ONLY in the Heritage Cherry finish, on the Gibson web site, yet I find a TV Yellow model in a store? Does this mean I might find different finishes, on other models, not shown on this very site? You'd think THIS place would be the end-all of information on what exactly is available.

 

 

The VOS SG "Special" was offered in TV Yellow, and White, too...at one time. The one you saw

could have been New Old Stock (NOS), that they've had, or acquired from another GC? That happens...

especially with the "higher dollar" versions, of SG's and Double Cut LP's, as well. If it's been

out of the catalog long enough, you may be able to leverage a better price? Sometimes, they'll

do that, just to "move it!"

 

Personally, I'd LOVE to have a "white" version, of that particular model, myself!

But, aside from the money consideration, I rarely see them, even on E-bay.

 

CB

[darling67]

The VOS SG "Special" was offered in TV Yellow, and White, too...at one time. The one you saw

could have been New Old Stock (NOS), that they've had, or acquired from another GC? That happens...

especially with the "higher dollar" versions, of SG's and Double Cut LP's, as well. If it's been

out of the catalog long enough, you may be able to leverage a better price? Sometimes, they'll

do that, just to "move it!"

 

Personally, I'd LOVE to have a "white" version, of that particular model, myself!

But, aside from the money consideration, I rarely see them, even on E-bay.

 

CB

 

CB,

 

I was looking at that guitar yesterday, and it somehow looked different to me… couldn't put my finger on it. Then, I got home and had a look at them here on the Gibson site, and lo and behold…

 

Those models don't have a "tune-a-matic bridge"—just a tailpiece! Looks a little odd to me. I'd still snatch it up if I won the lottery last night, however. Anyway, the guy there at GC told me that the price—which was already marked-down for sale—would really represent any company discount I'd have gotten on it.

 

But it's all good. I will most likely end up with one of those limited run Special P-90's, a "50's Tribute P-90, or a Standard P-90... and just forego my finish preference for the latter, and get one in Heritage Cherry.

[charlie brown]

CB,

 

I was looking at that guitar yesterday, and it somehow looked different to me… couldn't put my finger on it. Then, I got home and had a look at them here on the Gibson site, and lo and behold…

 

Those models don't have a "tune-a-matic bridge"—just a tailpiece! Looks a little odd to me. I'd still snatch it up if I won the lottery last night, however. Anyway, the guy there at GC told me that the price—which was already marked-down for sale—would really represent any company discount I'd have gotten on it.

 

But it's all good. I will most likely end up with one of those limited run Special P-90's, a "50's Tribute P-90, or a Standard P-90... and just forego my finish preference for the latter, and get one in Heritage Cherry.

 

 

Well...IMHO...Guitar Center is not known for particularly "Great" deals! Depends, of course

on WHICH one, as some are a LOT better, than other's! Commisioned salespeople, want to sell

it to you, at the highest price that they can talk you into buying it for! More money, for

them!! That's (just) one, of many reasons, I rarely go into one, anymore.

 

Much better prices, and CS from my "Family owned" dealer! One guitar, I'm Lusting for, and that's

on MY "bucket list" in particular, at my dealer is $1,000.00 LESS, than any of the BIG BOX on-line

dealers! Most other models aren't to that degree, less expensive, but still substantially so. That same

dealer, is consitently less expensive than all, or most, "on-line" Big Box stores...and, without any

haggling!

 

Anyway, good luck to you, whatever you decide to do!

 

CB

[darling67]

Well...IMHO...Guitar Center is not known for particularly "Great" deals! Depends, of course

on WHICH one, as some are a LOT better, than other's! Commisioned salespeople, want to sell

it to you, at the highest price that they can talk you into buying it for! More money, for

them!! That's (just) one, of many reasons, I rarely go into one, anymore.

 

 

CB,

 

I have purchased from a guitar shop in Wichita, KS called "E.M. Shorts". The guys there are really cool, and they have had the best deals I've been able to find on many guitars—including my Epi Casino Elitist.

 

But, now that I am an employee of GC, I am all about taking advantage of the employee discount—which will fluctuate, depending on WHAT I buy. I have every intention of letting whom ever I might deal with, at GC, know that I am an employee. That way, they won't get "screwed" on commission.

 

I'll post pics of my new baby once I've got her. Stay tuned... and thanks for the replies!

 

-James

[charlie brown]

CB,

 

I have purchased from a guitar shop in Wichita, KS called "E.M. Shorts". The guys there are really cool, and they have had the best deals I've been able to find on many guitars—including my Epi Casino Elitist.

 

But, now that I am an employee of GC, I am all about taking advantage of the employee discount—which will fluctuate, depending on WHAT I buy. I have every intention of letting whom ever I might deal with, at GC, know that I am an employee. That way, they won't get "screwed" on commission.

 

I'll post pics of my new baby once I've got her. Stay tuned... and thanks for the replies!

 

-James

 

 

Yep...That's the one!!

 

And, yeah...take every advantage you can, of your employee discount, and whatever else they

offer. I had good deals, and relations, with 3 GC's, when I lived in Los Angeles. The Hollywood,

Sherman Oaks, and Pasadena stores. Even so, E.M. Shorts not only matched whatever deal I got,

they usually beat it, sometimes substantially...even back then! And, being out of state, there

was no tax, and shipping at that time, was on 20 bucks, to LA. Been dealing with them (except

during the 30 years I didn't play, or buy gear), since they opened! But, in some (rare) situations,

where E.M. Shorts didn't carry the brand, I was looking for, those GC's came to the rescue.

Now, however...I figure if they ("Shorts") don't carry it...I don't "need" it! LOL

 

CB

[darling67]

Yep...That's the one!!

 

And, yeah...take every advantage you can, of your employee discount, and whatever else they

offer. I had good deals, and relations, with 3 GC's, when I lived in Los Angeles. The Hollywood,

Sherman Oaks, and Pasadena stores. Even so, E.M. Shorts not only matched whatever deal I got,

they usually beat it, sometimes substantially...even back then! And, being out of state, there

was no tax, and shipping at that time, was on 20 bucks, to LA. Been dealing with them (except

during the 30 years I didn't play, or buy gear), since they opened! But, in some (rare) situations,

where E.M. Shorts didn't carry the brand, I was looking for, those GC's came to the rescue.

Now, however...I figure if they ("Shorts") don't carry it...I don't "need" it! LOL

 

CB

 

Frack!!! I typed a decent-sized reply, but lost it somehow! Argh! So, the edited version...

 

Funny that we referred to the same "mom and pop" dealership.... and I happen to live in the L.A. area. I prefer the Sherman Oaks GC as it is the closest to home, and I feel has a better layout than the Hollywood store.

[charlie brown]

Frack!!! I typed a decent-sized reply, but lost it somehow! Argh! So, the edited version...

 

Funny that we referred to the same "mom and pop" dealership.... and I happen to live in the L.A. area. I prefer the Sherman Oaks GC as it is the closest to home, and I feel has a better layout than the Hollywood store.

 

Yeah, that IS interesting! As to CG's...I haven't been in any of the LA stores, since I moved

away, almost 7 years ago. Probably wouldn't recognize them, anymore?!

 

CB

[3PuPs]

Hey darling67,

For what it's worth I agree with BRTOAD. Here is an option for you- been playing my new 2013 SG Deluxe (Lime Burst) for two weeks now and really have a hard time putting it down. It's got bling,it sings,and it has this new "TogPot" thing. Wow this is really a value added feature my friend. You can blend these three '57 bad boys together,neck,or bridge. Sweet options from heaven! it really works well and blends tones you can spend months tweeking. QC was really on top of this one. Beautiful Limeburst finish that pictures on the web don't do justice. Fits me like a glove. Best SG I ever played. Keep in mind that I don't dive bomb the Bigsby and have no problem picking with the middle pup their. I took a chance ordering this one without actually playing it. I live in Las Vegas and saw it at the CES Gibson booth(display model only) Then saw one in a Guitar Center Window. Went back the next day and it had been sold.(what luck). Knew I wanted it and one day Music Zoo ran a special promotion and I took the leap. Best gut instinct I ever had. If you can find one play it. Well worth the experience. Good Luck!

[darling67]

Hey darling67,

For what it's worth I agree with BRTOAD. Here is an option for you- been playing my new 2013 SG Deluxe (Lime Burst) for two weeks now and really have a hard time putting it down. It's got bling,it sings,and it has this new "TogPot" thing. Wow this is really a value added feature my friend. You can blend these three '57 bad boys together,neck,or bridge. Sweet options from heaven! it really works well and blends tones you can spend months tweeking. QC was really on top of this one. Beautiful Limeburst finish that pictures on the web don't do justice. Fits me like a glove. Best SG I ever played. Keep in mind that I don't dive bomb the Bigsby and have no problem picking with the middle pup their. I took a chance ordering this one without actually playing it. I live in Las Vegas and saw it at the CES Gibson booth(display model only) Then saw one in a Guitar Center Window. Went back the next day and it had been sold.(what luck). Knew I wanted it and one day Music Zoo ran a special promotion and I took the leap. Best gut instinct I ever had. If you can find one play it. Well worth the experience. Good Luck!

 

Thanks for the tip, 3PuPs!

 

That looks like a sweet axe! It's kind'a out of my price range, however. Maybe if I win the lottery in the next few weeks, I'll buy one of each SG model! Haha!

[darling67]

Well, folks...

 

After much deliberating—which included consideration of a Les Paul Studio model—I arrived at my final decision:

 

SG '50s Tribute in Vintage Sunburst

 

 

 

I am going to have a pick guard installed on it, as I can NOT live with an SG that lacks a pick guard! I did a little "envisioning" with Photoshop, and it would look something like this. It'll require a little finessing, but I have full confidence in the repair guys at my local Guitar Center.

 

 

[darling67]

Thought I'd share a pic from last night's company-sponsored Jam Night... which featured the first appearance of my new '50s Tribute SG!

 

I've blurred-out the faces of the others, which might seems silly. But I'd never post anyone's likeness online w/out their knowledge or consent. I could have cropped them all out, but then the context would be lost.

 

[charlie brown]

Thought I'd share a pic from last night's company-sponsored Jam Night... which featured the first appearance of my new '50s Tribute SG!

 

I've blurred-out the faces of the others, which might seems silly. But I'd never post anyone's likeness online w/out their knowledge or consent. I could have cropped them all out, but then the context would be lost.

 

 

Looks like a Fun night! Glad you got to "crank 'er up," a bit!! Always nice

to play with others, as well.

 

CB

[darling67]

Looks like a Fun night! Glad you got to "crank 'er up," a bit!! Always nice

to play with others, as well.

 

CB

 

It was, indeed, a fun night CB! Lots of different types of music, meeting and making connections with co-workers, lots of drinking of course , etc. As I am not in a dedicated band—and really don't have the time to devote to one, as I once did—these events are a good outlet for me.

 

I received a lot of compliments—which are always nice (especially coming from a lot of seasoned pro's and semi-pro's)… including compliments on my tone! I told them, "It's the SG!". The Les Paul and the Strat were well-represented last night. Mine was the only SG up there out of around eight or nine bands!

[charlie brown]

It was, indeed, a fun night CB! Lots of different types of music, meeting and making connections with co-workers, lots of drinking of course , etc. As I am not in a dedicated band—and really don't have the time to devote to one, as I once did—these events are a good outlet for me.

 

I received a lot of compliments—which are always nice (especially coming from a lot of seasoned pro's and semi-pro's)… including compliments on my tone! I told them, "It's the SG!". The Les Paul and the Strat were well-represented last night. Mine was the only SG up there out of around eight or nine bands!

 

 

Yeah, SG's have great tone!! SG's and P-90's are and excellent combination.

But, I'm sure most of what they appreciated, was your playing! You're as

responsible, for the "tone," as the guitar and/or amp!

 

CB

[darling67]

Yeah, SG's have great tone!! SG's and P-90's are and excellent combination.

But, I'm sure most of what they appreciated, was your playing! You're as

responsible, for the "tone," as the guitar and/or amp!

 

CB

 

[charlie brown]

So, is that a Vox (AC-15 or AC-30) you're playing through, darling67?

 

CB

[darling67]

So, is that a Vox (AC-15 or AC-30) you're playing through, darling67?

 

CB

 

CB,

 

I believe that was an AC 30 I was playing thru. I had been rehearsing with my House Band, pictured, using a Line 6. Then, I was told I'd be using an EVH amp because the Line 6 did not get transported to the venue…

 

But when I got there, the VOX was placed in my spot on the stage. I'd say it all worked out well. That amp sounded good with my P-90 equipped SG.

[charlie brown]

CB,

 

I believe that was an AC 30 I was playing thru. I had been rehearsing with my House Band, pictured, using a Line 6. Then, I was told I'd be using an EVH amp because the Line 6 did not get transported to the venue…

 

But when I got there, the VOX was placed in my spot on the stage. I'd say it all worked out well. That amp sounded good with my P-90 equipped SG.

 

 

LOL... AC-30's sound great, with just about any guitar!

 

CB