80s Stella N-2R/428R

Overview: The Stella Model N-2R/428R is a vintage electric guitar produced in Russia, known for its unique design and distinctive sound. These guitars are part of a series of instruments that were produced in the Soviet Union, and they have a reputation for their quirky, yet endearing qualities. The N-2R/428R model, in particular, is sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of vintage and unusual guitars.

Key Features:

• Body:
  • Material: Soviet-era guitars often utilized locally sourced materials.
  • Shape: Classic double-cutaway body shape.
• Neck:
  • Material: Hard wood
  • Construction: Bolt-on neck design.
  • Fingerboard: Rosewood
  • Scale Length: Approximately 24.75 inches (628 mm).
  • Frets: 22 frets.
  • Inlays: Dot inlays.
  • Nut Width: Approximately 1.65 inches (42 mm).
• Hardware:
  • Bridge: Basic adjustable bridge, sometimes with a tremolo system.
  • Tuners: Enclosed or open-gear tuners, depending on the production year.
  • Pickguard: Often features a large, single-piece pickguard.
• Electronics:
  • Pickups: 4  single-coil pickups, known for their bright and somewhat raw tone.
  • Output Jack: Standard 1/4″ output jack.

Sound Characteristics:

• Raw and Bright Tone: 4 single-coil pickups provide a raw, bright tone that is characteristic of vintage Soviet guitars.
• Unique Sound: Known for its distinctive sound, which can be both charming and unconventional.

Applications:

• Genres: Suitable for rock, blues, punk, and experimental music.
• Usage: Ideal for live performances, studio recordings, and home practice, particularly for those seeking a unique and vintage sound.

Notable Features:

• Vintage Appeal: The N-2R/428R has a vintage charm that appeals to collectors and musicians looking for unique instruments.
• Distinctive Design: Features a unique design that reflects its Soviet-era origins, making it a conversation piece as well as a musical instrument.

Notable Users:

• Steve Albini (Big Black, Shellac):
  • Details: Steve Albini, known for his work with Big Black and Shellac, has used various Soviet-era guitars in his recordings and performances. He is an avid collector of unique and unusual guitars, and Soviet models fit well within his eclectic collection.
• Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth):
  • Details: Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth has been known to use Soviet-era guitars. His experimental approach to music makes these guitars a fitting choice for creating unconventional sounds.
• Jack White (The White Stripes, The Raconteurs):
  • Details: Jack White is known for his use of various vintage and offbeat guitars, including Soviet-era models. He appreciates the distinctive sound and aesthetic these instruments offer.
• Nels Cline (Wilco):
  • Details: Nels Cline, guitarist for Wilco, has been known to experiment with a wide range of guitars, including Soviet-era models. His use of these guitars contributes to his diverse tonal palette.

The Stella Model N-2R/428R Russian-made electric guitar is a distinctive vintage instrument known for its unique design and raw, bright tone. With its classic double-cutaway body, single-coil pickups, and bolt-on neck, the N-2R/428R offers a playing experience that is both nostalgic and unconventional. Whether you’re a collector, an experimental musician, or simply a fan of vintage guitars, this model provides a glimpse into the unique world of Soviet-era musical instrument manufacturing.