2011 Sheratons - 5 piece Necks: starting to arrive

[BillyGibson]

Here's a listing for a New Mfg. Refurb on Ebay:

 

http://cgi.ebay.com/EPIPHONE-Sheraton-2-Semi-Hollow-Sunburst-W-HSC-/320681956450?pt=Guitar&hash=item4aaa225462

 

Epi must still be doing QC on them and shipping the rejects off to MIRC to correct.

 

Looks like a 5 piece neck, similiar to the pre 2008's and older Korean models. The biggest difference I see is the back of

the headstock is painted solid. But at least you can see the neck with its 5 pieces.

 

Shouldn't be to much longer before they are available at GC/MF.

[bobouz]

Unless I missed it, I don't see where it says this is a 2011 model. And why would a refurbished new version be in circulation before a non-refurbished from the same batch? This is probably one of the earlier Korean examples. Although it's been alluded to, I don't see Epi going back to the 5 piece neck. Imho, the best bet would be to return to the original specs with a one piece mahogany neck (& throw in some mini-humbuckers!).

[charlie brown]

That particular "factory refubished" one...is a Korean version.

The upper bout horns are more rounded, curved, on the newer Chinese

versions, which are more like Gibson spec's, now. The horns on

the one advertised, are more generic, in appearance, as is typical

for the Korean manufactured version.

 

As to going back, to a 5-piece neck...it has been stated, that

"Gibson/Epiphone" confirmed that, for 2011 models, but that it

would take a few months, for previous stock, to be depleted, and

the newer versions, to start showing up. As to how "True," that

is...who knows? "I" haven't seen, Gibson/Epiphone state this, but

it has been discussed, previously. Frankly, I wish/hope they do,

go back to the 5-piece neck, for strength and appearance. Always

liked that. But, I do like the newer body-spec outline, of the

Chinese versions, much better.

 

Maybe Epi-1, can confirm, or deny, the new spec's on the necks?

 

Time will tell, no doubt.

 

CB

[BillyGibson]

Unless I missed it, I don't see where it says this is a 2011 model. And why would a refurbished new version be in circulation before a non-refurbished from the same batch?

 

The listing stated it was "New". Because the back of the headstock is black and the 5 pieces are not shown running from the neck to its end, like the Korean versions, it seemed to me

it would be a 2011: since 5 piece necks haven't been made since 2008. It seems like everyone is having difficulty accurately describing their guitars for sale. Last I heard, when I called

GC ac couple weeks ago, they had 31 Vintage Sunbursts in stock. As soon as they run out of those, I hope they get the 2011's, so I can put this to bed. The GC rep was told by a rep from Epiphone

when he called a couple months ago, the 2011's would be 5 piece necks.

[BillyGibson]

Sorry for my ignorance,

 

what is "MIRC" ?

 

 

 

Here's a link:

 

http://www.mircweb.com/

 

They buy factory rejects from most mfg's. The defects range from: simple cosmetic items to headstock breaks, fretboard lifts, top cracks, bad wiring and anything else that can go wrong. They fix them, stamp them used, then sell them to Ebay sellers for about 25% of list (not street).

 

I'm not interested in one, because the prices are too close to A stock and the used stamp would bug me endlessly.

[bobouz]

Billy - Check out the thread titled "HNGD!!!" by BlueMeanie (last post 4/5/11). He just purchased a sunburst '05 Saein Sheraton (see pics), and the back of the neck is exactly like the one above. I also used to own a sunburst Saein, and the finish was sprayed this way on it as well. Of course the whole lovely 5-piece neck was visible on the natural models, and I owned a couple of those, too. They really are nice. Eventually did a major trade in '07 to land a natural finish Gibby 335, so my Sheraton lust has finally subsided (only to be replaced by Casino lust!). Anyway, I hope you're right and the 5-piece returns. Single piece maple necks like in the current version are known to be more prone to warping (when compared to solid mahogany or laminated maple necks).

[BillyGibson]

Thanks Bobouz. I saw that thread and that's what gave me GAS all over to check Ebay out. I didn't catch the headstock though.

Congratulations (belated) on your 335. That would definitely satisfy my Sheraton lust.

 

There's actually another ebay listing for another Sheraton with a 5 piece neck. The lister describes it as new, with a new case.

The pictures do look like both are new. But no serial number was shown to verify the year. It's in California, and that's half way

across the country for me. I would want to see it in person first. Based on a few recent Craigslist experiences, I learned the

descriptions don't necessarily match the actual condition.

[bobouz]

Billy - Try checking Gbase from time to time. The dealers on there are usually trying to move vintage stuff for top dollar, but they occasionally will list Asian Sheratons & Casinos for around $475 to $500. Edit: Just checked, and at this moment there are two sunbursts pictured at a hair under $500, both with hard cases. The one with more detailed pictures is clearly Korean & is listed as mint, while the other doesn't show the back, but you can always call the dealers to get more specific info. The nice thing about Gbase is that these dealers have a higher degree of accountability & they know what they're looking at so you can get more reliable info from them. Good luck!

[BillyGibson]

Billy - Try checking Gbase from time to time. The dealers on there are usually trying to move vintage stuff for top dollar, but they occasionally will list Asian Sheratons & Casinos for around $475 to $500. Edit: Just checked, and at this moment there are two sunbursts pictured at a hair under $500, both with hard cases. The one with more detailed pictures is clearly Korean & is listed as mint, while the other doesn't show the back, but you can always call the dealers to get more specific info. The nice thing about Gbase is that these dealers have a higher degree of accountability & they know what they're looking at so you can get more reliable info from them. Good luck!

 

Bobouz - Thanks for the tip. I checked out the one that is "mint" from Guitar Hanger. I called and talked with Rick. Very friendly and knowlegeable. It is from the Saien Plant. Serial number starts with an I. Not sure of the year though. I forgot to ask. h. He said, it still has stickers on the pickups and the original strings. The person who owned it, never played it. He was just a collector. I went ahead and ordered it. It arrives Monday .

[bobouz]

The Saein instruments are consistently good. Very cool!