At a time when Japan has been hit by another earthquake, it seems frivolous to be discussing the finer points of a Japanese (or any) guitar, so I?d like to begin by sending my good wishes to anyone in Japan who is reading this & my hopes that you are safe.
The Goldstar arrived today & my first impressions are that it?s a lovely guitar. However the identification sticker at the back of the neck (heel end) is missing, so I?d appreciate any help in pinning down which model it is.
First, two apologies: (1) I can?t post any pics yet, because my computer is down ? I?m writing this on my wife?s PC, which doesn?t have the camera software. (2) I know this will be annoying, but though I?ve played for years I?ve never looked under the hood, so until I get it set up by a guitar tech I can?t provide info on the pickups.
From the top:
Headstock: De Luxe tuners & no sign that they?re replacements. The Tokai decals are in the proper positions & again look original. There?s no ?tear-drop? truss rod marker, unlike on my ST55 & ST40.
Neck: Rosewood. No skunk stripe, again unlike my other two Goldies. ?Made in Japan? sticker, but as noted above no model identification sticker.
Body: White. The mint-green scratchplate has 11 screw-holes, like my ST40, whereas the ST55 has 8. The volume/tone controls & selector switch have yellowed nicely, but the pickup covers are still white. The saddles are stamped ?Final Prospec?.
Serial no.: 222XXX. My ST40 is 213XXX.
I hope that gives something to work on.
As I say above, it seems a fine guitar. Great sustain when played unplugged. The neck is beautiful & exactly right for me. The pickups give a bright & lively Strat sound & there?s good definition between them; they are perhaps a little quieter than the other Goldstars. For ?250, with a solid plush-lined case thrown in, I?m well pleased, whatever the model.
Many thanks for any comments.
Del
