Description
Sweet strumming 70s MIJ SA-500! This non-F hole version is playing well set up with 12s but can only take heavy gauge strings to play smoothly. Priced accordingly at $599!
The Greco SA-500 is a semi-hollow electric guitar produced by Greco in Japan, closely resembling the Gibson ES-335 in design and tone. However, the non-f-hole version of the SA-500 is a unique variation, offering a sleeker, more modern look with a fully enclosed top, while still retaining the rich, resonant sound that semi-hollow body guitars are known for. This version of the SA-500 is favored by players who prefer the aesthetics and feedback-reduction benefits of a non-f-hole design while still enjoying the classic semi-hollow body sound.
KEY FEATURES:
Semi-Hollow Body: The non-f-hole version of the Greco SA-500 has a laminated maple body, similar to the traditional SA-500, but with a solid top that lacks the traditional f-holes. This construction gives the guitar the resonance and warmth of a semi-hollow body but with reduced susceptibility to feedback at higher volumes, making it a versatile option for players in live settings.
Set Neck Construction: The guitar features a set neck, typically made of mahogany with a rosewood fingerboard. This construction contributes to the instrument’s sustain and playability, offering a comfortable neck profile that suits various playing styles.
Dual Humbucking Pickups: The SA-500 is equipped with two humbucking pickups that deliver a warm, rich tone with plenty of clarity and articulation. These pickups handle everything from smooth jazz tones to overdriven rock sounds, making the guitar versatile across genres.
Vintage-Style Hardware: Like its f-hole counterpart, the non-f-hole version of the SA-500 typically includes vintage-style tuners, a tune-o-matic bridge, and a stopbar tailpiece, providing stable tuning and reliable intonation.
SOUND PROFILE:
Warm and Resonant: The semi-hollow body construction gives the SA-500 a warm, resonant tone with enhanced sustain. The enclosed top reduces potential feedback, making the guitar more suitable for high-gain applications without losing the richness and warmth of a semi-hollow body.
Versatile Tonality: The dual humbucking pickups provide a wide tonal range, from smooth, clean jazz tones to overdriven blues and rock. The pickups are well-balanced, offering clarity and definition even with higher levels of gain, making the guitar versatile for a variety of musical styles.
Focused Midrange: Without the f-holes, the guitar’s tone has a slightly more focused midrange compared to traditional semi-hollow body guitars with open f-holes, giving it a punchier sound that cuts through a mix more easily.
APPLICATIONS:
Jazz, Blues, and Rock: The warm, resonant tone of the SA-500, combined with its humbucking pickups, makes it ideal for jazz, blues, and rock styles. The guitar’s rich sustain and clarity are perfect for players who need both clean and overdriven tones.
Live Performance: The non-f-hole design reduces the risk of feedback at high volumes, making the SA-500 a solid choice for live performances, particularly in louder environments. Its semi-hollow design still delivers the warm, rich tone players expect from this style of guitar.
Studio Recording: Thanks to its versatile tone and rich harmonic content, the SA-500 excels in studio settings, offering a great range of clean and overdriven sounds for recording.
BUILD QUALITY AND AESTHETIC:
Sleek and Modern Look: The lack of f-holes gives the Greco SA-500 a more streamlined, modern appearance, appealing to players who prefer a cleaner aesthetic. Despite the lack of traditional f-holes, the guitar retains the classic semi-hollow body shape that players love.
High-Quality Craftsmanship: Like many Greco guitars from this era, the SA-500 is known for its exceptional build quality and attention to detail. The Japanese craftsmanship ensures that the guitar is both durable and comfortable to play, with excellent fit and finish.
COLLECTIBILITY AND MARKET VALUE:
The Greco SA-500 (non-f-hole version) is a rarer variant compared to its f-hole counterpart, making it an attractive option for collectors and players alike. Its unique design, combined with the high-quality Japanese craftsmanship of Greco during this period, adds to its desirability. While not as common on the market, the non-f-hole SA-500 holds value well due to its distinct aesthetic and the versatility it offers. Its growing reputation among players makes it a sought-after instrument for those looking for a semi-hollow body guitar with vintage charm and modern functionality.
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