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vintage guitar collection

What comes across the bench, and what it tells us. Instruments, history, and the details that decide what something is worth.

14 entries · filtered

In The Shop: 1962 Gibson L-5CESN

Those with an affinity for archtop guitars are usually quite familiar with iconic Gibson guitars such as the ES-175, ES-335, and signature models such as the Johnny Smith, Barney Kessel, and Tal Farlow. But it’s their top of the line L-5 model that continues to rule...

  • How Did We Buy This 1953 Fender Precision Bass?

    Here at IVG, folks come by selling vintage instruments for all kinds of different reasons, and we’re here to help make the process easier. In some cases, they could simply...

    4 min read

  • Three Quarter Stunners: The Gibson ES-140

    The Gibson ES-140 is a notable entry in the long list of Gibson “Electric Spanish” or “ES” guitars, distinguished by its unique design and historical significance. Launched in the early...

    3 min read

  • What’s The Deal With Fender Reverb Units?

    We’ve all heard the sounds of lush reverb effects on our favorite music. Whether it’s found on a twangy surf instrumental or the vocal track of a great singer, you’ll...

    4 min read

  • Is My Guitar Refinished?: A Quick Guide

    The vintage guitar market has grown exponentially over the last several decades, with more and more folks becoming interested in, purchasing, and selling vintage instruments and equipment of their own....

    6 min read

  • What’s That Rumble?: The Rickenbacker 4001

    In the world of electric basses, much like guitars, the select few top runners continue to prove themselves time and time again as the dominating rulers of their field. And...

    3 min read

  • The Gretsch 6126 Astro-Jet: A Sixties Space-Age Gem

    The “Space Race” of the 1950’s and 60’s extended far beyond a quest to explore the outer world, but also seeped into the subconscious of popular culture and created a...

    3 min read

  • In The Shop: 1968 Gibson ES-330TD

    Few instruments exude the elegance and musical versatility of the Gibson “ES” guitars. The ES-330 model in particular is a longtime favorite of players and collectors, and its not hard...

    3 min read

  • Legacy Models: The Fender Esquire

    The Fender Esquire is the design that defined Fender’s legendary status in the world of electric guitars. Born in the early days of the company, this instrument is truly the...

    3 min read

  • Telecaster Bridges: Vintage Or Modern?

    The Telecaster has undergone various modifications and improvements over the years. One significant area of change lies in its bridge design, with distinctions between vintage-style and modern-style bridges. Understanding the...

    3 min read

  • The Gibson Les Paul Junior: A Simple Stunner

    For over six decades, the Gibson Les Paul Junior has remained the perfect example of simplicity, elegance, and raw rock ‘n’ roll power. This iconic little guitar has carved its...

    3 min read

  • Icons Of The Brown Sound: The Ibanez Destroyer

    Ibanez is one of those companies with a rich and illustrious history that reaches back many decades. While the company has become synonymous with more budget-friendly and entry level guitars...

    4 min read