Description

Late 60s/Early 70s MIJ Guyatone LG-20T with jag-style pickups and Trem system. $799 with a hard case!

The Guyatone LG-20T is a vintage electric guitar produced by the Japanese manufacturer Guyatone during the late 1960s and early 1970s. This model uniquely blends design elements from Fender’s Telecaster and Jaguar guitars, resulting in a distinctive instrument that offers a combination of classic aesthetics and versatile sound. The LG-20T is appreciated for its unique design, quality craftsmanship, and the characteristic tones of its single-coil pickups.

Key Features

  • Body and Construction: Solid slab body with a design reminiscent of the Telecaster, providing a comfortable playing experience.
  • Neck: Bolt-on neck with a rosewood fretboard, offering smooth playability and a comfortable feel.
  • Scale Length: Approximately 24.75 inches, similar to Gibson’s scale length, contributing to a unique tonal quality and playability.
  • Pickups: Two single-coil pickups inspired by Fender’s Jaguar design, delivering bright and articulate tones with a distinctive character.
  • Bridge and Tailpiece: Features a six-roller saddle bridge and a vibrato tailpiece similar to the Jaguar’s, allowing for expressive pitch modulation.
  • Controls: Master volume and tone controls with a three-way toggle switch located on the lower horn, providing straightforward tonal adjustments.

Sound Profile

The LG-20T’s single-coil pickups offer a bright, clear tone with a distinctive midrange presence. The combination of the solid body and the unique pickups provides a sound that is both punchy and articulate, making it suitable for genres like surf rock, blues, and early rock ‘n’ roll. The vibrato system adds an additional layer of expressiveness, allowing for subtle to moderate pitch variations.

Applications

This guitar is ideal for players seeking a vintage instrument with a unique blend of design elements and tonal characteristics. Its bright and articulate sound makes it well-suited for rhythm and lead playing in various genres, including surf rock, blues, and classic rock. The LG-20T’s distinctive aesthetics and sound also make it a valuable addition to a guitarist’s collection, offering a different flavor compared to more common vintage models.

Build Quality and Aesthetic

Guyatone’s craftsmanship during this era is evident in the LG-20T’s construction. The solid body and bolt-on neck provide durability, while the rosewood fretboard ensures smooth playability. The combination of Telecaster-inspired body shape with Jaguar-style pickups and hardware results in a visually striking instrument that stands out among vintage guitars. The aging of certain finishes, such as the Lake Placid Blue turning greenish, adds to the guitar’s vintage charm.

Country of Manufacture

Japan

Collectibility and Market Value

The Guyatone LG-20T holds appeal among collectors and players interested in unique vintage Japanese guitars. Its distinctive design, combining elements from iconic Fender models, and its limited production period contribute to its desirability. While not as widely known as some other vintage guitars, the LG-20T’s unique features and sound make it a noteworthy addition to a collection. Market value can vary based on condition, originality, and finish, with well-preserved examples fetching higher prices among enthusiasts.