D’Angelico NYSS-3B Vestax (brand new)

People who know me will attest to this: From time to time I become quite obsessed about trying to find a very hard to get guitar, or amp, or effect. Really any kind of gear that sparks something in my soul - be it a D'Aquisto archtop, a Pete Cornish pedalboard, well the list can go on and on. The truth is, the more difficult it is to find and get, the more I enjoy the quest.

After hearing the amazing Kurt Rosenwinkel play, I became intensely focused on finding the guitar that was the scepter for his amazing tones.

It wasn't easy. Kurt was using a Dangelico semi-hollow that was only available in the USA for a very short time. They were made in Japan at the Vestax factory which is very famous for its really high quality arch tops. (It's important to note: THIS IS NOT THE KOREAN VERSION THAT WAS AVAILABLE IN THE USA. PLEASE DO NOT MISTAKE THIS VESTAX FOR THAT VERSION.)

While Vestax still makes this model,it is only available overseas. However, I was determined to get one. After a long search, I was very fortunate to build a relationship with a Japanese guitar shop who was willing to have a Vestax NYSS (This D'Angelico Semi) made for me in the color that I prefer, vintage natural.

It was worth the hunt. I couldn't be more pleased.

This guitar is just a unique and quite wonderful instrument. It has an extremely woody electric tone that is very even throughout its whole sonic spectrum. I can understand why Kurt prefers this model; chords speak true no matter where you are on the neck. From the lowest to the highest chord formation, nothing gets muddied or indistinct. It would make a perfect jazz fusion instrument, but at the same time, it's versatile and quite addictive to play.

This model is not a feather light guitar - it's is 9.15 lbs - and in this case I wouldn't have it any other way. The mass from the center block and brass hardware seem to add something to the total aural vibe.

I've played several of these Vestax guitars over the years and they all seem to have the same recipe, and they were all that good.

The workmanship is excellent, from the fret work, to the neck profile to the build itself. The look and the mojo really says D'Angelico. (I've played a number of vintage D'Angelicos over the years - more than I can remember.)

This absolutely brand new guitar was very difficult for me to acquire. I really doubt that you will find another. It's a true pleasure to be able to offer it at CR Guitars.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.