Amplifiers Vintage and Used

The Twelfth Fret carries many quality Vintage and Used amplifiers, Amplifiers have their own unique voices and it can be very interesting to play through different models.


In Memory: Ed Kopala

Gone, but never ever forgotten. Join Dorit, Miles and Friends To Celebrate The Life of Ed Kopala (1952-2023)Sunday 11 June 2023 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Hirut Cafe And Restaurant 2050 Danforth Avenue Toronto Ontario Ed loved to get together with friends and make music, so let's make this party one to remember. Join us for a celebration of his life through music. Bring your memories and stories to share! *Please send photos and videos by 1 June 2023

The Twelfth Fret Canada’s First Allparts Premium Installation Partner!

The Twelfth Fret and Allparts are pleased to announce the first Canadian Allparts Premium Installation Partner!

Tenor Banjos and Guitars

Sometimes people wonder what these odd four-string instruments are when it comes to Tenor Banjos and guitars.

Locking Tuners

Locking tuners are one of the more recent significant innovations in the field of musical instrument tuning gears and bring real benefits to electric and acoustic guitarists.

Consign Your Instruments With Us! Let Us Sell Your Used Guitars And Amplifiers

We sell over 800 instruments every year on consignment.  Your instruments – guitars, banjos, and amps are quickly posted on our website and viewed by our clients world-wide.

Consign Your Instruments With Us!

We sell over 800 instruments every year on consignment.  Your instruments – guitars, banjos, and amps are quickly posted on our website and viewed by our clients world-wide. And lately with many people housebound during these difficult times,  guitar sales are brisk!   With our local and international shipping – even curbside pickup, we’ve been able to satisfy needs and even helped others get back into playing! Let Us Sell Your Used Guitars And Amplifiers Bring your instrument in, and once

We Are Taking Precautionary Measures to Reduce The Risk of Spreading COVID-19

Dear Customers,  We want to take a moment and connect with you directly, as COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues to unfold. At present our shop is open and operating under usual shop hours. This includes our repair shop and music school. The health, safety, and well-being of our customers and employees is a priority. In addition to our current procedures, we wanted to share how we are tightening up cleanliness and safety within our shop. Here are some of the precautionary steps

Free Introductory Lesson to New Students During 6th Annual “Teach Music Week”

The Twelfth Fret music school is participating in the “6th Annual “Teach Music Week” event taking place Monday March 16-22, 2020.  Teach Music Week helps to create more awareness for music education and the importance of music. We are offering a FREE introductory music lesson to new students who book during Teach Music Week! This annual week-long action invites musicians, music schools, music stores and other music organizations to offer a free lesson or class to new students (kids &

Join Us For An Evening With Boucher Guitars and Featured Folk Music Artist J P Cormier – 3 February

The Twelfth Fret is hosting a JP Cormier clinic Monday April 1 2019! Running from 7PM to 9PM, this will take place at our shop at 2132 Danforth Avenue, at Woodbine.

Join Us With Host Marc Roy on 24 February Right Here!

Join us for an Evening of Bluegrass with Marc Roy at The Twelfth Fret! Marc Roy has spent the last 25 years with an instrument in his hands. Monday 24 February you can join Marc for an invigorating workshop mixing things up with some folk, blues, country and more! Event Details: WHERE:  The Twelfth Fret   WHEN:   Monday 24 February, 2020 TIME:     7:00 – 8:30 P.M. PRICE:  $20.00  which includes entry PLUS a $20.00 Twelfth Fret Gift Card, redeemable for full

New Fender American Ultra Series Introducing State-Of-The-Art Engineering

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) introduces the American Ultra Series, the most-advanced modern guitar from Fender. An evolution of American Elite (Fender’s premier electric series that launched in January 2016)  – the Ultra Series boasts all-new modern features, state-of-the-art craftsmanship and nuanced design. Luxurious, sleek and cutting-edge, this series sets a new industry standard for precision, performance and feel with Ultra Noiseless pickups and Fender’s fastest-playing necks. Created for a wide range of today’s highly-skilled modern artists, session and working

Staff Picks: Charvel Pro-Mod DK24 HH 2PT CM

Charvel guitars have a long standing reputation as the guitar for choice for modern players looking for a fast playing feature laden instrument. The new DK24 HH 2PT model from the Pro-Mod series boasts a feature set and playability that will rival instruments double the price. The first thing you may notice is the lovely roasted maple neck. In addition to the rich visual aesthetic the process of roasting the maple and taking out moisture makes for a more stable

“Formby Strums” Ukulele Night With Douglas John Cameron – Monday 2 December

Join us for another fun, instructional Ukulele Night with host Douglas John Cameron on Monday 2 December, 2019.  The evening’s theme – “Formby Strums” – will be an introduction to the strumming techniques that gave George Formby his unique style. A step-by-step tutorial through the “Triple Stroke”, the “Fan Stroke” and the “Split Stroke”, as applied to one of Formby’s most famous tunes “Leaning on a Lamppost”. George Formby was not just the most popular and successful entertainer of his

The Twelfth Fret Celebrates 4th Annual “Kids Music Day” Friday 4 October 2019

Join us to celebrate the 4th Annual “Kids Music Day” kick off – Friday October 4th, 2019. We are jumping in on the international action and placing a spotlight on the importance of including music in children’s education.   Each year, Keep Music Alive partners with music schools, music retailers like us – and other music organizations worldwide to highlight the importance of including music in children’s education.  Events held by participating locations include open houses, instrument petting zoos, student music

A Night Of Acoustic Music with Jacobe Lauzon and Alanna Jenish – 7 October

Join us for a night of Acoustic Music with Jacobe Lauzon and Alanna Jenish. As a duo, Alanna and Jake continually impress audiences with their sweet harmonies, lightening-fast instrumental solos and dynamic musical arrangements. More About Jacobe Lauzon Jacobe Lauzon began his musical journey at seven years of age, after showing a persistent interest in playing his father’s guitars. Years later, Jacobe has emerged as an accomplished young musician and singer, and has been busy playing regular gigs across Durham

The Twelfth Fret Presents A Clinic with Paul Pigat – Monday 21 October

“Hot enough to raise sweat on a chunk of granite!” Join us for an evening with music artist, Paul Pigat Monday 21 October, 2019! Paul is a guitar player’s guitar player, the real deal. Premier guitar says: “Through a grassroots approach Pigat has garnered a massive fan base and achieved cult status. Two recent Canadian only releases, It’s a Sin, the raucous album from his Cousin Harley project, and Boxcar Campfire, a more acoustic outing, hit the States in February

Fender Custom Shop Promotes Carlos Lopez to Master Builder

A new Master Builder joins the Fender Custom Shop: Carlos Lopez. With decades of experience in guitar luthiery, he’s worked on countless designs during his four years as an Apprentice Master Builder under esteemed Fender Master Builder Todd Krause.   “Masterbuilt Fender Custom Shop guitars are in more demand now more than ever, which explains why we’ve added three new Master Builders since 2018,” said Mike Lewis, VP of Product Development at Fender Custom Shop. “Our apprentice program continues to

Fender Custom Shop Game of Thrones Sigil Collection Series with Trio of Elaborate Guitars

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), in partnership with HBO Licensing & Retail today announced the introduction of three masterbuilt handcrafted Game of Thrones guitars – dubbed the Game of Thrones Sigil collection – including three models for three fan-favorite houses: GAME OF THRONES HOUSE STARK, TELECASTER GAMES OF THRONES HOUSE LANNISTER, JAGUAR GAME OF THRONES HOUSE TARGARYEN, STRATOCASTER The trio of deluxe, one-of-a-kind guitars embodies the true essence of Westeros’ most iconic, notable families and are built to order via the

Bluegrass Night With Jacobe Lauzon and “Backcountry” – 13 May

  Join us for a night of Bluegrass Music with Jacobe Lauzon and Backcountry. Steeped in tradition, passion and talent, Backcountry plays the kind of hard-driving and soft-hearted bluegrass music you know and love. This lineup of award-winning musicians have formed a band built on a reverence for the old standards, a fearlessness in playing with new sounds, and years of friendship and musical collaboration.  Jacobe will be on guitar with Backcountry members Marc Roy on mandolin, Alanna Jenish on

Locking Tuners

Locking tuners are one of the more recent significant innovations in the field of musical instrument tuning gears and bring real benefits to electric and acoustic guitarists.  Though they are simple in concept and name, we’ve found that there can be some confusion about what exactly it is they do, how they work, and what they are for.  And specifically, what they lock.  First, though, let’s state what locking tuners do not do.  They do not lock your guitar into

Fender Celebrates Guns N’ Roses Bassist Duff McKagan with Latest Artist Signature Bass Collaboration

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) released the Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass the latest iteration of Fender’s collaboration with the Guns N’ Roses bassist and New York Times bestselling author.  The newest model in Fender’s Artist Signature Series captures the true musical essence of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee McKagan. Best known for his work with Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver McKagan has had an epic music career, entertaining and inspiring countless fans. Now, with the Duff

Must See Documentary Carmine Street Guitars Opens April 5th Across Canada

Following screenings at the world’s most prestigious film festivals – Venice, Toronto, New York and SXSW (Austin, TX) – Carmine Street Guitars opens in Theatres across Canada on April 5th, 2019 with exclusive engagements at TIFF Bell Lightbox, Toronto, The Cinematheque, Vancouver and Cinema du Parc, Montreal. Ron Mann’s latest feature documentary Carmine Street Guitars is an intimate portrait of the fabled Greenwich Village guitar shop. There, custom guitar maker Rick Kelly and his young apprentice Cindy Hulej build handcrafted

Jimi Hendrix Electric Church Critically Acclaimed Film Ticket Giveaway

We’re Giving Away Five Pairs of Tickets (10 tickets total) to see Jimi Hendrix: Electric Church – on 13 March, 6:15pm – a documentary film playing at Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, about the music legend’s Atlanta Pop set and the circumstances surrounding it. Back in cinemas for a limited time, the film documents the massive festival hailed then as the ‘Southern Woodstock’ and recognized now as the last great US Rock Festival. The film presents the story of how

SOLD!!! Boucher Studio Goose SG-21-G High Quality Hand Crafted

  Boucher Guitars make very high quality hand crafted guitars in the heart of Quebec and their calling card is their use of locally harvested Adirondack Red Spruce. Simple elegance and outstanding quality control are on display when you first observe these fine instruments. Top notch materials and a wonderful build translate to a sonic palette that will go toe to toe with all other boutique builders and classic flat top guitars. The Boucher Studio Goose SG-21-G is an orchestra

Guitar Isn’t Dead Research Shows Learning to Play Helps Us Live Better Lives

Fender research findings revealed that, much like the instrument itself, the archetype of the “guitar god” in music and culture has evolved. Guitar isn’t dead – musicians are playing guitar now more than ever, but in new, innovative ways in today’s diverse, popular music landscape. With the rise of streaming and sharing platforms, artists around the world have even more access and empowerment to create and share music. In tandem, Fender consulted with award-winning neuroscientist, musician, record producer and author Daniel Levitin, who

Tenor Banjos and Guitars

Sometimes people wonder what these odd four-string instruments are.   These days, we’re so used to the 5-string banjo and the 6-string guitar that other forms are unfamiliar. In the early part of the 1900s, the four-string banjo started to appear, with the first commercially produced model built by Vega around 1908.   This instrument was based on some principles of other mandolin, mandola type instruments – particularly being tuned in fifths to CGDA and played with a pick.   This provided a

The Twelfth Fret Designated Drop Off Depot – Guitars For Kids Toronto

We are pleased to partner up and lend support to Guitars For Kids (GFK) Toronto as the drop-off depot for donated guitars for the city’s east region. We are ready to collect your unwanted used or new guitars on behalf of GFK- Toronto. Guitars for Kids -Toronto, located in the heart of Toronto, is a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to helping those in need. With the dedication of our volunteers, staff members, and partners, we strive to improve the lives of children

Book Release “My Good Times With Stompin’ Tom by Duncan Fremlin

Our good friend Duncan Fremlin’s new book “My Good Times with Stompin’ Tom” is out and available (from 19 November) right here in the shop.  Duncan Fremlin played banjo with Tom on his epci cross-Canada adventures, enduring the glory of seedy motels, boozy hoedowns, and thousands of screaming Hosers fro coast to coast. (excerpt) There are over 35 stories featured in “My Good Times with Stompin’ Tom”. Some crazy, others outrageous but all true as stated by Fremlin. They’re behind

Spanish Guitarist and Composer Carlos Piñana Performs for Qudud Flamenco Canada

Spanish guitarist and composer Carlos Piñana will perform on two occasions during upcoming Festival du Monde Arabe de Montréal: 9 November, 2018 – Aga Khan Museum 11 November, 2018 – Théâtre Maisonneuve, Montréal The first performance, Aga Khan Museum is pleased to present the world premiere performance of Qudud Flamenco, in collaboration with the Festival du Monde Arabe de Montréal (FMA). Don’t miss this new production fusing flamenco with the traditional qudud of Aleppo in a unique union of two of the greatest musical traditions of

Fender Teams Up With Jimmy Page for Led Zeppelin’s 50th Anniversary, Recreates Famed Guitarist’s Iconic Telecaster

Fender Musical Instruments is collaborating with one of rock’s most legendary guitar players – Jimmy Page – to recreate his famous 1959 Fender Telecaster 50 years after Led Zeppelin formed in October 1968. Among music’s most iconic guitars is Jimmy Page’s Telecaster, known for its two “mirror” and “dragon” designs. It helped launch Page’s career in The Yardbirds and Led Zeppelin, and the guitar was used to record “Led Zeppelin I” along with countless hit songs on world-renowned albums. To celebrate the 50th anniversary

Ukulele Night With Douglas John Cameron – Monday 19 November 2018

  Ukulele night is now sold out. Stay tuned for future dates. Join us for another Ukulele Night with host Douglas John Cameron on Monday 19 November, 2018 Douglas will be breaking down his version of Paul McCartney’s Blackbird.  “Blackbird” is from the Beatles 1968 double album The Beatles (also known as “the White Album”), which was performed as a solo effort by Paul McCartney. The song was also written by McCartney, although it is credited to Lennon–McCartney. McCartney has stated that the lyrics

The Twelfth Fret Celebrates 3rd Annual “Kids Music Day” 2018

Join us to celebrate the 3rd Annual “Kids Music Day” kick off – Friday October 5th, 2018. We are jumping in on the international action and placing a spotlight on the importance of including music in children’s education.  There will be approximately 800 to 1,000 locations joining in worldwide over Kids Music Day weekend, kicking off Friday 5 October.  In celebration we are offering a special incentive lesson package promotion – FIVE LESSONS FOR THE PRICE OF FOUR – and profiling

Gold Corium Straps

Gold Corium Straps is a luxury bespoke leather guitar strap company from Toronto, Canada. They believe that a guitar strap should be as beautiful as the guitar it’s holding. Not just functional, it’s about style. This is why Gold Corium Straps focus on high-end products for the fashionable guitar player. Every strap is untouched by machine; meticulously made by hand with the finest precision. Every design is a unique Gold Corium creation. But what we offer is more than a product, it’s

Fender Squier All-New “Contemporary Series” Electric and Basses

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announced the expansion of the Squier Contemporary Series with four models debuting at Summer NAMM in Nashville, Tenn.; they include all-new Jazz Bass and Jazzmaster models with an all-modern look, feel and aggressive tone at an accessible price. These additions mark the continued growth of modern Squier offerings to support today’s aspiring players.   “After introducing the Fender Contemporary Series earlier this year, the demand for our modern Squier offering continues to grow to meet

Enter the Fall for Ovangkol 414ce Giveaway – WIN A New Taylor 414ce Guitar

Enter now for a chance to win a Taylor 414ce, now featuring our revolutionary V-Class bracing.  The Taylor 414ce is among Taylor’s most popular Grand Auditorium guitars and newly upgraded to V-Class bracing, has long been a favorite of gigging and recording musicians thanks to its versatile tone and clean, workmanlike aesthetic.  Featuring a solid Sitka spruce top over ovangkol back and sides, this guitar represents the essential needs of the working guitarist from sound to style. This unique pairing of tonewoods produces a vibrant mix of clear mids and

Blackstar ID Core BEAM

The ID:Core BEAM is the first Blackstar product with Bluetooth functionality, allowing you to stream your music to the amplifier. The hi-fi quality playback of your MP3s through the ID:Core BEAM will redefine what you can expect from a multifunctional product and with Super Wide Stereo the sound will fill the room.

New Fender Player Series Electric Guitars For Aspiring Artists

Fender Musical Instruments released a new line of electric guitars and basses for aspiring players and artists who represent the future of guitar. Dubbed the “Player Series,” the line will establish a new level of excellence for players ready to take that next step in their musical journey with Fender’s iconic models–whether their dreams lie on a big stage or in a garage band and beyond. The Fender Player Series replaces the Standard Series and is the new foundational offering

How To Choose Fretwire

You like your instrument and play it a lot.   Now, you’ve come to the point where the frets are worn enough that you need to consider whether to dress and re-crowned, or re-fret.    If they can be dressed, this lasts for a while.   But if they’re going to be replaced, what kind of fret should you choose?  Fret choices used to be easy because little was available and even that was hard to find.  Fret wire was wider and low

Enter The Summer Song Taylor 814ce DLX Giveaway

Now until August 31, 2018, you could win a brand-new Taylor 814ce DLX Grand Auditorium guitar, an enhanced version of  Taylor’s flagship model featuring the new V-Class bracing system. One (1) winner from the USA or Canada, and one (1) winner from France, Germany, the Netherlands, or the United Kingdom, will each receive a V-Class Taylor 814ce DLX acoustic-electric guitar, an approximate retail value of $3,999.99 (€3,429.49). Our 800 Series Grand Auditorium has long been one of our most popular models, and the 814ce DLX

Fender Celebrates 60 Years of Jazzmaster Innovation

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announced the 60th anniversary celebration of Fender’s most creative and expressive model: the Jazzmaster. A hero of the underground, the Jazzmaster has been adopted by generations of artists looking for unique sonic qualities and combinations, unlocking genre defying sound that lives on today within music and culture.   In 1958, Fender introduced the Jazzmaster as the top-of-the-line electric guitar for jazz musicians; later the sound and easily modifiable style attracted counterculture and misfit players, including aficionados of surf guitar

Taylor Guitars Builder’s Edition Model Featuring V-Class Bracing

Among Taylor Guitars’ exciting new model releases for 2018, the Builder’s Edition K14ce leads the charge as one of four new guitars featuring the all-new V-Class bracing system — a ground-breaking innovation that dramatically improves an acoustic guitar’s volume, sustain and intonation to deliver an extraordinary playing experience. Taylor master guitar designer Andy Powers, who developed the V-Class bracing scheme, conceived of the Builder’s Edition to celebrate the V-Class launch, creating the equivalent of an enhanced “director’s cut” edition, matching

Stan Rogers’ William Laskin Guitar – ? Canada Day Feature

Many instruments pass through The Twelfth Fret Repair shop, and some are significant by themselves. On the occasion of ?Canada Day? and by generous special permission, we’re delighted to share these photographs of the late Stan Rogers’ 1977 William Laskin guitar (which is not for sale) and this story by luthier G. W. Barry with you. Stan’s Guitar Stan Rogers created a legacy of songs that celebrate our country and the spirit of its people. His musical and lyrical craftsmanship

NAMM 2018 and Innovation: Enter The StompLight

The annual NAMM Show (National Association of Music Merchants) is an interesting event. There’s so much to see and learn about when it comes to anything music. A lot of it is so overwhelming you start to see a lot of the same things, or at least a lot of the new things, seem to be extremely repetitive. I like going as I get to do the complete opposite as most others. My job is to intentionally look for something

The Fly Rig Series From Tech 21 Just Keeps Getting Better and Better!

Going to the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) show always affords us a great opportunity to see the latest and greatest gear for the upcoming year. Over the last number of years one of my main observations has been the increase in compact and lightweight amplifier and preamps for the gigging musician. This trend has been going on for a while now and includes some of the most interesting innovations for guitar and bass players like the Line6 Helix (all

How To Spice Up Your Travis Picking by Using The Up Beats

Travis picking is a great tool that every fingerpicker should have in their bag.  It’s the backbone to many popular songs both past and present and offers the player almost endless variations. This article will just begin to scratch the surface of how to take simple alternating thumb patterns and turn them into more interesting ideas. Here is what I would consider to be about the most basic Travis style pattern.  We will be using a first position C major

June 2018 is Eastman Month at The Twelfth Fret

June 2018 is officially “Eastman month” at The Twelfth Fret! All instock Eastman instruments – guitars, mandolins, ukuleles and banjos are featured at special pricing.  When it comes to building a guitar, there is a big difference between assembly and artistry. If history taught Eastman anything, it is that there is no substitute for skilled craftsmanship. At Eastman, each instrument is given the attention to detail required to ensure that it reaches its maximum potential. Features such as hand-scalloped bracing

Fender Takes On Pedals With Six New All-Original Circuits

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) released six new, innovative effects pedals, marking its official entrance into the category with all-original circuits designed by in-house experts – the first of many in a long-term commitment to the category and sonic innovation. The new offerings provide a diverse set of effects – reverb, delay, overdrive, distortion, compression and buffering. From weekend warriors and pro players to guitarists looking for their first stomp box, Fender effects pedals give all types of players a

“Purple Berries 2” Ukulele Night With Douglas John Cameron • 5 March 2018

Join us for another Ukulele Night with host Douglas John Cameron!  Purple Berries 2  is an exploration of Joni Mitchell and an introduction to open tuning on the ukulele – performed by Douglas Cameron. Joni Mitchell is perhaps the most influential singer songwriter of her time. We will look at how she used open tunings in her own unique way by exploring some of her early songs Bring your ukulele and play along. If you wish to use one of our

Fender Diversifies Squier Offering With All-Modern “Contemporary Series” Electric Guitars

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announced the expansion of its offerings with the new Squier Contemporary Series, which includes Stratocaster® and Telecaster® electric guitars with an all-modern look, feel and sound at a meaningful price point. The first new series added to Squier’s offering in several years, this line is ideal for players – entry level and beyond – seeking progressive features in a guitar that that has authentic vibe and style. “When we set out to design this series, we

Practicing, The Internet and 100 Conflicting Opinions

  My students will frequently ask me what my thoughts are on various online articles they may have come across.  It might be a specific video tutorial, maybe a how to hold your hands article or a how to structure your practicing time column.  There is a lot of information out there, much of it conflicting and a lot of it in my opinion misses the mark, in some cases by miles.  I remember in one case a student was

Ibanez RB and RGA Models – Quality and Versatility In A Beginner Electric Guitar

  In my opinion two of the most important things to look for in a great beginner electric guitar is quality in the craftsmanship and versatility both in sound and playability. While there are many guitar makers that are offering these traits in their line of student and starter guitars and for this I am going to focus on two Ibanez models – the RB and the RGA models – from the Ibanez standard series. The Ibanez RG and Ibanez

Humidification On a Larger Scale

  When the time of year arrives where both temperatures and relative humidity drop, and musical instruments start to respond to the changes, that’s the time when extra care for humidification is required. The rule of thumb is that once the furnace comes on, it’s time to humidify and if it comes to the point where you are uncomfortable, instruments will be at risk.   Maintaining a good humidity level of around 45% in your spaces will help you, not just

Intonation and Guitar Set Up

Most of the photos seen on The Twelfth Fret’s website are taken in a room next to the Repair Shop’s intake desk, usually the room I often spend time in.  One of the most common requests I over hear is to replace tuning gears because the guitar won’t stay in tune.   However, the parts are usually fine – the problem is that the guitar isn’t set up properly and can’t get in tune at all! There are situations where parts

The Metronome

One of the less glamorous but critically helpful tools for any musician is the metronome. Ranging from simple clock-spring click devices to electronic boxes capable of multiple rhythms and time signatures, properly used the metronome can quickly improve your playing. It is essential if you are playing with other musicians or want to record your music. Like tuning, our sense of time is partly learned and many things that will cause a player to speed up or slow down. We

Super-Vee BladeRunner Bridge

From time to time a new guitar product comes along that can be truly called an advancement;  the BladeRunner Bridge qualifies as a major advancement in floating-bridge technology.  At first blush, the BladeRunner is a solidly made bridge; lovely machine work and plating on the saddles, and a smooth-feeling whammy-bar adjustable tensioner that eliminates slop in the trem-arm threads. But the unique innovation is the elimination of the knife edges; THE principal cause of tuning issues. Visit our Parts Tailpieces and

Fender Teams Up With Justin Meldal-Johnsen For Artist Signature Series JMJ Road Worn Mustang Bass

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) released the JMJ Road Worn Mustang Bass, the latest addition to the Fender Artist Signature Series that debuted at Summer NAMM 2017.  Evocative of JMJ’s (Justin Meldal-Johnsen) versatile music background, the bass is modeled after his own vintage 1966 Daphne Blue 4-string Mustang Bass. Often working behind the scenes, JMJ has used his prized Mustang Bass and diverse talents – from playing to producing – to make a big impact on the modern rock genre in collaboration

Demeter MB-2 Midboost – Fat Control

The Demeter MB-2 Midboost / Fat Control is  for guitar players looking to add depth, warmth and extra punch to their tone, a midbooster can be the perfect tool. Demeter’s MB-2 Midboost / Fat Control is a powered, onboard preamp designed to enhance the midrange frequencies of your guitar. Demeter has voiced this mid booster beautifully, allowing it to give your guitar the extra power and sustain you want for enhancing your solo tones, without adding harshness or making things

Bond Guitars

Bond Guitars was set up by Andrew Bond (who died in 1999) in Muir of Ord, Scotland, in 1984. The company ceased trading in 1986.

Martin & Co. Custom Shop Guitars

At my recent visit to the Martin factory I purchased several already built Custom Shop guitars which will arrive at The Twelfth Fret in the next few weeks.  But the real fun came with my visit to the Custom Shop where I put together an order for two guitars.  I was allowed to sort through stacks of wood to choose the actual top, back and sides plus input every structural detail in construction and internal bracing. My fellow dealers were

Ernie Ball Music Man St. Vincent Signature Model Electric Guitar

Music Man Guitars is a long-time favourite among many players seeking excellent playability and functionality in a US made instrument. The St. Vincent signature guitar with GRAMMY® award-winning musician Annie Clark aka “St. Vincent”– brings her own signature model to the ranks of these exceptional instruments. Annie and the award-winning engineering team at Ernie Ball Music Man set out to design a unique electric guitar that fit her form, playing technique and style Annie is a singer songwriter and multi-instrumentalist

Meet Grace VanderWaal Fender Guitars’ Youngest Signature Series Artist in Fender History

Just days before the launch of her first LP ‘Just The Beginning’, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) is proud to announce the launch of pop-sensation Grace VanderWaal’s very own Signature Ukulele series– available Spring 2018.  Fender’s popular artist signature models are geared toward product progression and storytelling, creating instruments designed to the unique specifications of the world’s most iconic artists. Adding the winner of the 11th season of NBC’s top-rated America’s Got Talent to the Fender family, VanderWaal is among a wave of

Gretsch Announces New Limited Edition Models

Gretsch announces a handful of new Limited Edition models: G6136T Falcon. G5422TG Electromatic Hollow Body. G5435TG Electromatic Pro Jet. G9500 Jim Dandy Flat Top guitar. G6136T Limited Edition Falcon With String-Thru Bigsby Offering all the classic Falcon elements, in a new arresting Azure Metallic finish- the G6136T Limited Edition Falcon with String-Thru Bigsby offers iconic style and richly robust Gretsch tone that cuts through a dense onstage mix. It’s a stand-out-from-the-crowd guitar, both sonically and visually. A pair of TV Jones Classic

Seven Mistakes Beginner Guitar Players Tend to Make

We’ve all been there before; a lot of us learned the hard way. Learning the guitar is tough! Especially in the beginning stages, and since we’re so focused on learning the instrument we tend to ignore certain things that could actually hinder our playing in the long run. Here are seven mistakes beginner guitar players tend to make, and ways to avoid them.   NOT Tuning Your Guitar Before You Start To Play.   When I was in elementary school, we

Do Expensive Guitar Cables Really Sound Better?

It’s a common question: “How much money should I spend on a guitar cable?” Anyone in the market for a new cable will quickly discover a massive range in price. Surely, a $160 cable must be vastly superior to a $10 cable, right? Well, perhaps not. Many high-end guitar cable makers will make bold claims about the tonal improvements provided by their cables. But “tone” is a tricky thing to compare. The way we hear can be very subjective. There’s

Playing A Simple Dead Thumb Blues

You know from the very beginning when something is called “dead thumb” it’s going to be cool!  The dead thumb technique is very old and many of the oldest blues and roots recordings feature it fully or in some variant form.  People interested in older blues styles will know the sound of this technique right away, but lately a number of newer, popular artists are revisiting it with great success and bringing it to a wider audience.  The artist Hozier

John Page Classic Ashburn Guitar

The Ashburn Guitar from John Page is a uniquely familiar guitar with classic lines and some subtle yet impactful features. John Page has 40 years of guitar building experience including co- founding and leading the Fender Custom Shop and building instruments for Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, and Pete Townshend. He set out to design a guitar with richer more complex tones and effortless playability. John feels the neck interaction with the body in addition to the chosen materials and electronics

“Purple Berries” Ukulele Night With Douglas John Cameron • 27 November 2017

“Purple Berries” Ukulele Night With Douglas John Cameron • 27 November 2017 Join us at The Twelfth Fret with host Douglas John Cameron. The evening’s theme is “Purple Berries” after the line in “Wooden Ships” from Crosby Stills and Nash’s (CSN) first album. Selections from Crosby Stills and Nash’s first album arranged for ukulele, performed by Douglas Cameron. Sing and play along with “Helplessly Hoping” and “Marrakesh Express” and enjoy renditions of “Guinevere”, “ Lady of the Island” and a work

Deering Goodtime Fretless Banjos

Banjos began to be commercially produced in the 1850s and enjoyed huge popularity.   During the next 40 years over 80 American companies produced banjos. 19th Century banjos remained true to their African roots; they were fretless and fitted with friction-peg tuners.   In the 1880s, fretted banjos appear, offered by companies such as C. Bruno and Sons of New York.  By the 1900s only a handful of fretless models remained, catering to the older players who had cut their teeth on

Fender Releases Limited Edition Jimi Hendrix Monterey Stratocaster in Honor Of Monterey International Pop Festival

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announced the launch of its newest addition to the Artist Signature Series: the Jimi Hendrix Monterey Stratocaster; it honors the late and great rock icon, whose persona and legacy is not only synonymous with the Fender Stratocaster, but also rock ‘n’ roll at large. Jimi Hendrix took the world by storm with his incredible 1967 Monterey Pop Festival performance, which he concluded with the sacrificial burning of his now-iconic, hand-painted Stratocaster. First revealed at Summer NAMM

 Fender California Coast Series Ukuleles Celebrating Its Californian Roots

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) – born and raised near the coast of Southern California – launched of its new California Coast Series Ukuleles, celebrating the brand’s California roots. All five, diverse soprano, concert and tenor models are named after beaches along the coast of California – from Los Angeles to picturesque Santa Barbara, capturing the spirit of California beach culture and the lifestyle it has to offer year-round. Coming soon, all models from the California Coast Series Ukuleles will

Taylor Guitars Road Show Event 25 October, 2017

You’re invited to join us at The Twelfth Fret for the Taylor Guitars Road Show 2017! Here you’ll enjoy guitar talk and demos with Taylor factory staff from El Cajon, California. DATE: Wednesday October 25, 2017 TIME: 7PM  ADDRESS: The Twelfth Fret Shop, 2132 Danforth Avenue.  Evening Highlights Include:  • Experience the new Academy Series & GS Mini Bass • Test-drive Taylor’s latest guitar models • Consult with Taylor’s experts to find the perfect guitar • Special Road Show pricing on Taylor

Restoration

The question of instrument restoration regularly comes up at the repair bench.    Here, we’ll talk about the broadest outlines of restoration and repairing and look closer in upcoming episodes.  Many people who have older, often badly worn or damaged instruments, and especially inherited from family members, want to know about restoring them to playable or new condition.  Answering these questions requires looking at all the aspects of what’s happened to the instrument over time, what outcome is hoped for and

(Discontinued) Godin Summit Classic Ltd Desert Blue Cutaway Guitar

NOTE – This model has been discontinued and is out of stock.  We’re maintaining the post for historical purposes, but we will only see these again as used.   Ever dreamed of owning a classic single cutaway-style guitar but the price tag on most brands you look at is somewhat out of your reach? Well, you owe it to yourself to check out the Godin Summit Classic Ltd.  The in particularly the sparkled desert blue finish – Godin has really turned

Expanding Your Ukulele Playing

If you’ve been getting the feeling you’re stuck in a rut, playing the same old chords, in the same old rhythms – on your ukulele, this article is for you. The ukulele is a surprisingly fun little instrument which plays much like a guitar. It’s super convenient to travel with, and even easier to grab for an outdoor summertime tune. It’s also fun to just strum chords – for a while. I frequently see students on both the guitar and

Seven Things Likely To Go Wrong At Your Gig And How To Prepare For Them

A few weeks ago on a Saturday night, I played a show for my band’s CD release party. As you might imagine, I’ve played quite a number of shows in my time – and no matter how much you prepare, they never seem to go as well as you’d expect. Though often they’re amazing – all the way through – with everything going right. But on other nights, it’s like living through a nightmare!   To help you along, or

❌SOLD❌ 1976 Fender Stratocaster Hardtail Black

Though it was available as an option from the 1954 introduction, the Fender Stratocaster Hardtail version is not as well known as its trem-bridge brother.

❌SOLD❌ Gibson ES-339 Thinline Archtop Electric Caramel Sunburst, 2010

Descending directly from the ES-339 line, the Gibson ES-339 was an immediate hit when it appearead in 2007, sporting a scaled-down body but full-size neck.

Tuners and Tuning Machines

Traditionally, tapered friction tuning pegs made of hard wood were carefully fitted into matching holes on the headstock.   This is still the case with violin family instruments and traditional Flamenco guitars.   However, as metal working techniques improved during the Industrial Revolution mass-produced reliable tuning gears or “machine heads” appeared, offering easier and more accurate adjustment. Tuning Machines – the Twelfth Fret Tuners and Tuning Machines Friction Tuners You’ll recognise a friction tuner right away – they are the standard part

Thinking Of Getting a Child Interested in Music? Consider the Ukulele

Most people know of the Ukulele as a little Hawaiian guitar like instrument that has one foot in the world of music and the other in the world of toys, or at best tourist souvenirs. Tiny Tim and his goofy version of “Tip-Toe Through the Tulips”  from the late 60s did little to change this impression.   The ukulele is thought to be a 19th century Hawaiian adaptation of a Portuguese machete, a small four string guitar-like instrument that made

Setting Up A Fender Stratocaster Trem (Part 1)

Here we’re looking at a common issue and some ways to address it. This is, of course, getting a Fender Stratocaster guitar – with the original style vibrato bridge – to stay pretty much in tune even when using the bar. As well, we’ll look at setting up the bridge to pull the strings up specific intervals from its resting position. First, it’s necessary to understand that the Fender Stratocaster vibrato bridge isn’t a part, or a set of parts;

Made In Japan – Ibanez Prestige RG

Most often when guitar players think of premium made electric guitars major US brand names come to mind. However, the sometimes overlooked high quality guitars produced in Japan can provide players with an equivalent instrument at significant savings. Having just spent three weeks of vacation in Japan this year I was able to see first-hand the pride and craftsmanship that goes into all things Japanese made all the way from their Sushi to premium electric guitars. It was also very

Moving From Beginner Fingerpicking Techniques to Travis Picking

In my last article on fingerpicking, I introduced some of the basics needed to turn simple chord knowledge into some basic finger-picking techniques.  Now, I’d like to introduce some slightly more advanced right hand techniques and start getting into some intermediate level exercises with a focus on Travis style picking. Travis picking is a very distinctive and specific right hand technique that takes its name from American music pioneer Merle Travis (1917-1983). Although the technique bears the name “Travis” today,

Acoustic Guitar Pickups And Which One Is Right For You?

Amplifying acoustic guitars is always a bit of a challenge. Capturing the lush, natural tone of your favourite guitar is not easy to do without introducing feedback, unwanted handling noise, and a list of other annoyances. But with so many pickups on the market, how do you choose the best one for your guitar? Which acoustic pickup is right for you? Today we’re going to do a little rundown through some of our favourites here at the Twelfth Fret, and

Martin Guitar Factory Tour

Recently I was flown down to the Martin Guitar Factory in Nazareth, Pennsylvania for a two day dealer-tour of the factory and Custom Shop. It is fascinating to see over 500 people building some of the world’s finest guitars in such a quiet, clean and organized fashion. The constant attention to detail and quality is what strikes me the most.  Martin Guitar seems to understand that though some degree of automation is needed, a constant hands-on component is essential to

❌SOLD❌ Legendary Ed Bickert Tribute Fender Telecaster

In 1978, the legendary Ed Bickert visited my shop for the first time.   As he dragged his heavily worn blond Tele out of his gig bag, his little daughter looked up and said “daddy, are you going to paint your guitar?” Ed never touched the finish but he did have me install a new pickup in this famous Telecaster.  We experimented with several humbucker pickups, finally settling on a Gibson PAF reissue.  Early in his career he played a late

Five Ways to Improve Your Guitar Playing

During the fifteen years I’ve been teaching at The Twelfth Fret I’ve noticed my beginner and intermediate students seem to hit the same road blocks. Students of all ages can get really discouraged that they’re not improving and wonder if learning an instrument is something they have the ability or the time to do. It’s almost always the same things that bog them down and the following five tips can help you overcome frustration and grow your skills as a

The Tech 21 Fly Rig 5 Portable Amp And Pedal Solution

The Tech 21 Fly Rig 5 is a great sounding feature packed portable amp and pedal solution for guitar players. This small and stylish unit weighs in at just over 18oz and 12 inches in length. That means you can easily fit the Fly Rig 5 into your gig bag and away you go. At the core of this unit is the analog Tech 21 sansamp which simulates the amp, speaker and microphone and allows you to dial in your

Stinger Straps for Guitars Handcrafted by Canadian Designers

A guitar strap is a useful accessory especially if you’re standing to play or during practise.   Guitar straps are selected for practicality, as well as personal style.  When we checked out handcrafted Stinger Straps we just had to share the discovery with you. Stinger Straps are beautifully designed, comfortable and provide excellent weight distribution – and each one is designed right here in Canada. Stinger straps combine quality and style. Stinger Straps is a collaboration of leather accessory designers Victor

An Introduction to Fingerstyle Guitar

If you have ever wanted to expand your guitar playing beyond strumming an accompaniment chord part then finger-style guitar is great way to add variety to your playing and a great way to impress your friends too. In the following article I’m going to talk about some simple techniques to get any guitar player started down the road to finger-style playing and answer some of the most frequently asked questions – FAQS –  I get from students learning to finger-pick.

Guitar Doctor Lubricant for Electric and Acoustic Guitars

Created by Wyres Strings, this special blend of oil and PTFE (is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tetrafluoroethylene) is ideal for nut slots, string trees, open machine tuners, electric guitar saddles and whammy bar knife edges.  The luthiers in our busy Twelfth Fret workshop have used Guitar Doctor Lube daily since the early 1990’s. Guitar Doctor Lubricant reduces tuning problems plus prevents rust and tarnish on bridge hardware that is in constant contact with your hands. Most busy guitarists with three or

The Right Hand and Harmonic Support

The guitar is a great instrument for many reasons, it’s a folk instrument, meaning “of the people”. It’s compact, portable, capable of different tunings and it comes in many different varieties; acoustic, electric, nylon string, baritone, 12 string or even 7 string. With this much variety it’s no wonder there are so many musical styles that the guitar can cover. One thing it is not however, is a piano. By that I mean it does not have the capability of

José Ramírez Guitarra Del Tiempo Guitar Reviewed

The new Ramirez del Tiempo Guitar celebrates 135 years of the historic “Casa Ramírez” established by José Ramírez I –  in 1882; currently enjoying its fifth generation of Ramírez family ownership. 

Designed by Maestro-Luthier Amalia Ramírez, the Del Tiempo is a continuation of the esteemed 130 Años model.   Typical of all Ramirez guitars, the classic “Spanish sound” is immediately apparent; full bass response, plenty of volume and warm, sensitive trebles with good balance through the entire range.

Time Management

Every now and then a student arrives for a lesson and complains that they cannot play up to the speed they would like. “Speed” meant literally; they can’t play fast. When they try, their lines sound sloppy and disjointed, with lots of unintentionally muted notes. They try over and over to increase the tempos and simplify their lines, but to no avail. This is actually a symptom of a larger issue. It’s an issue of technique for sure, but not

Handmade Wyres Acoustic Guitar Strings

Wyres strings use the finest materials; Phosphor Bronze windings on premium grade, nickel-plated, musical-steel-wire core and the “P.T.F.D; Enhanced” coating makes them unique in the guitar string world. These ultra-high quality strings are handmade in Queens, New York. Then the strings are packaged in Toronto where the unique Wyres coating is also applied. The Wyres proprietary coating is a “hydrophobic” polymer which repels water and oils.  Applied by hand before packaging, this ultra-thin polymer prevents oxidation and discolouration of the

Old VS. New – The Future of Sustainable Guitar Making

As we know, guitar players are some of the most finicky people around. This is especially true when it comes to purchasing a guitar. Like most stringed instruments, guitar making is usually of wood, and currently is the common practice today. But seriously speaking, they shouldn’t be – not anymore – and here’s why. Learn From The Past Does you recall the Brazilian rosewood?  How epic the figuring was on an old Martin. How amazing it sounded when combined with

Line 6 Helix Guitar Multi-Effects Processor Review

The world of guitar amp modeling has come a long way in recent years. Take a look at the gear being used by active, touring guitar players all around the world and you’ll notice a common trend; “real” amps are steadily being augmented or replaced by a variety digital amp modeling units. Units like the Axe-FX II by Fractal Audio Systems or the Kemper Profiler have become the backbone of countless guitar rigs. As pioneers of the amp-modeling world, Line 6

Feature Video by Richard Smyth

One of our Twelfth Fret Music School teachers and renowned musicians – Richard Smyth, shows us in this video, a finger-style method he uses a lot. Richard notes that the thumb of the right hand plays a walking bass line, while the fingers pluck the chord changes. Great for jazz , or any tune where a walking bass is demanded. Any questions, or if you wish to book time in the studio with Richard, simply use our contact form.  

Three Good Reasons Spending More on Your First Guitar is Worth It

Over the years at The Twelfth Fret, we’ve encountered a mindset accompanying the first guitar buying process which actually, couldn’t be further from the truth.  A belief where beginners, or parents buying for their kids are under the impression that to buy something cheap and affordable is the right way to start. And later on when they become more advanced at playing, they’ll upgrade and spend a bit more money for a better guitar. This also is a way where

Banjo Night With Hosts Chris Quinn and Frank Evans – 20 March 2017

Banjo Night returns to The Twelfth Fret! Featuring Banjo Experts :: Chris Quinn and Frank Evans – Join Us! ►DATE: 20 March, 2017 (Monday) ►TIME: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. ►LOCATION: The Twelfth Fret Shop – 2132 Danforth Avenue FEE: Tickets to Banjo Night are $20.00 This includes your admission PLUS a $20.00 Gift Card *Gift Card redeemable at The Twelfth Fret during normal shop hours. RSVP: • Send an email with subject “RSVP BANJO EVENT” to: sales@12fret.com • Call us

Evolution of The Guitar Amplifier Continues with the Vox MV50

One of my favourite new products at the 2017 NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) show was the MV50 series of guitar amplifiers from Vox. Small, incredibly lightweight, versatile, and best of all – it sounds great. It is also the perfect example of an ongoing trend in the world of electric guitar amps, and how they are used. For decades, amplifier designers and guitar players alike seemed obsessed with the idea of earth-shattering guitar amps. Every new amp needed

Here’s What’s Trending From NAMM 2017

While attending the 2017 NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) show in Anaheim, California recently, I was overwhelmed by the amount of amazing guitars, amplifiers, effects and processors now available. What an exciting time it is for consumers! However, how does one go about choosing a guitar, an amplifier or effects pedals when there’s so much choice and so much marketing buzz competing for your hard earned dollars? This can make it difficult to navigate and equally challenging when trying

Seeing Past Buzzwords When Looking to Buy

While attending the 2017 NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) show in Anaheim, California recently, I was overwhelmed by the amount of amazing guitars, amplifiers, effects and processors now available. What an exciting time it is for consumers! However, how does one go about choosing a guitar, an amplifier or effects pedals when there’s so much choice and so much marketing buzz competing for your hard earned dollars? This can make it difficult to navigate and equally challenging when trying

Twelfth Fret Repair Shop Broken Headstock Fix

One of the surprisingly common events that brings instruments to The Twelfth Fret Repair Shop is a broken headstock.

Deering Golden Era Banjo

The Deering Golden Era banjo is an accurate reproduction of the classic banjos of the 1930’s made with the same materials and the same weight, design and features of the originals.

Gibson Les Paul Standard T, 2016

Presenting the new 2016 Gibson Les Paul Standard T! Gibson has provided real, but not radical, upgrades to the Les Paul Standard.

❌SOLD❌ The Windsor Zither Banjo

The Windsor Zither Banjo was built from 1887 until the Birmingham factory was destroyed in 1940 in a German air-raid.

All About A Fretted Instrument’s Scale Length

A guitar’s (or any fretted instrument’s) scale length is the basic distance between the nut or zero fret and the bridge’s saddle. This measurement not only determines the placement of the frets for proper intonation, but has a profound effect on string tension, tone, and in some cases, tuning stability.

❌SOLD❌ Gibson TG-00 Tenor Guitar 1934

This little tenor from the early 30’s is in great overall shape for its age, sounds great and comes with a cardboard case.

Gold Tone PBS-D Deluxe Maple Squareneck Reso-Phonic Guitar

Paul Beard – Gold Tone PBS-D Deluxe Maple Resophonic guitars feature Paul Beard’s own spun aluminum cone and spider assembly on a Beard designed open sound well that rivals the sound of instruments at twice the price.

SOLD Huber Workhorse Curly Maple Banjo

Huber Workhorse Curly Maple Banjo

In Memory of Domenic Troiano 1946-2005

Domenic Troiano and his customized Telecaster were highly influential and literally held in awe! Donnie played with an intensity and emotion that set him apart from an entire generation of guitarists.

❌SOLD❌ Silvertone S1384 Archtop Electric Guitar 1955

This is seriously cool – a 1955 Silvertone S1384 Archtop Guitar. This guitar is virtually identical to the 1955 Harmony Espanada model, with the difference being the branding logos.

The Gibson Hummingbird

One of the true classics, the Gibson Hummingbird is instantly recognizable by its square-shoulder dreadnought design, rich warm tone, and distinctive hand-painted pickguard.

2015 Loomer Walnut Parlour Guitar SOLD

Here is a lovely Walnut-bodied Parlour Guitar from the shop of John Loomer in Darien, Connecticut. John has been repairing and building in Darien for quite some time.

Gibson 1963 ES-335 (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

We’ve just received a new Gibson 1963 ES-335 in a VOS cherry finish, built at the Gibson Memphis plant. What a guitar!

1987 David Wren Maple 12 String Guitar SOLD

This 1987 David Wren Maple 12 String Guitar draws some visual influences from the classic Guild jumbo 12’s, though the modified body shape produces a tigher, more focused and less boomy sound while retaining much of the raw power of the Guild. This was David’s largest model, and he referred to it as the ‘Roundup’.

1926 Weymann Style 1 Orchestra Model Tenor Banjo SOLD

Weymann banjos were built by H. Weymann and Sons, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Originally produced with the name ‘Keystone’ in early 1900, in 1924 the Weymann name appeared and was used until 1934. Weymann instruments are known for high-quality construction and unique features

2008 PRS Santana MD Solidbody Electric (consignment) SOLD

Carlos Santana has had a long relationship with Paul Reed Smith guitars, to the point where there are a number of PRS Santana models. In 2008, the PRS Santana MD was released – the MD standing for ‘multi dimensional’. The key difference is in the wiring – there’s an extra switch that enables the ‘Multidimensional Voice Control’ circuit, allowing a range of new tones.

2004 Heritage Super Eagle Archtop Left Handed (consignment) SOLD

2004 Heritage Super Eagle Archtop Left Handed

Cruz Tools GrooveTech The Best String Cutters!

Cruz Tools GrooveTech The Best String Cutters

2003 Lawrence Nyberg Bouzouki (consignment) SOLD

From 2003, this Lawrence Nyberg Bouzouki features a carved Engelmann spruce top paired with Indian Rosewood back and sides. The 24 inch scale length is mahogany with an ebony fingerboard and headplate.

2002 Collings SJ Maple (consignment) SOLD

It’s always fun to review a Collings guitar. The build quality is always exceptional, the materials are top notch, and the tone is all there. This 2002 Collings SJ Maple is no exception.

SOLD!!! Gibson Dave Grohl DG-335 Pelham Blue

This very special instrument has just arrived from the Gibson Nashville Custom Shop – the Gibson Dave Grohl DG-335 in Pelham Blue, signed by Dave Grohl and numbered 95 of 200.

2006 Sergei de Jonge Brazilian Steel String Guitar (consignment) SOLD

This lovely 2006 Sergei de Jonge Brazilian Steel String is in very good condition. Featuring a German spruce top, Brazilian Rosewood for the back, sides and headplate; snakewood for the ebony-bound fingerboard, bridge, binding and trussrod cover, and mahogany for the neck.

1956 Fender Telecaster (consignment) SOLD

Introduced in 1950 as the Broadcaster, Leo Fender’s initial design has more than stood the test of time. This 1956 Fender Telecaster blonde is in very good condition, with expected play wear.

Parker Hornet PM-20 Pro SOLD

The Parker Hornet PM-20 Pro features a Mahogany body and Mahogany through-neck construction, faux abalone top binding, ebony fingerboard with faux mother of pearl star inlay at octave fret. This version uses the distinctive Parker ‘hockey stick’ headstock; some versions were made with a traditional 3×3 design.

1983 Fender Strat Walnut SOLD

In 1981, the Fender Strat Walnut was introduced as a top-tier version of The Strat. The Fender Walnut Strat was built using American Black Walnut with a clear gloss finish for both the body and one-piece neck.

1997 Gretsch Nashville G6120 6-12

The Gretsch Nashville G6120 6-12 Doubleneck was introduced in 1997, as a new model and built in very small numbers. There isn’t a lot of demand for doublenecks in the first place. However, they are impressive on stage, and if you need one, there is no substitute!

2012 Martin D-28 (consignment) SOLD

The Martin Dreadnought has been in regular production since its re-introduction in 1931, as a revival of the pre-1920 Ditson models. First listed as the D-1 and D-2, these models had 12-fret necks like the Ditsons. The D-1 combined a spruce top with mahogany for the back and sides, and the D-2 spruce and rosewood. In 1934, these models were rebuilt with 14-fret necks and became the Martin D-18 and Martin D-28.

1968 Fender Telecaster Blonde (consignment) SOLD

The Fender Telecaster has been an extremely popular design since its introduction as the Broadcaster in 1950. Its tonal versatility, reliability and durability led to its use in a huge range of musical genres. On this 1968 Fender Telecaster, the blonde finish is in good original condition with some yellowing due to age. All parts other than strings are original

2008 Collings MF Mandolin (consignment) SOLD

This sunburst example of the Collings MF Mandolin from 2008 has been used as intended by a prominent bluegrass player. It is thoroughly played in, so along with the honest, well-earned wear and tear, its tone has fully developed.

circa 1830 Louis Panormo-School Guitar SOLD

Louis Panormo was the most successful of all nineteenth-century London guitar makers. His clients included Trinidad Huerta Madame Pratten and probably Fernando Sor. He built guitars from 1822 to around 1855 when his nephew took over the business.

1974 Fender Telecaster Blonde (consignment) SOLD

The Fender Telecaster is probably the most successful musical instrument design in history. It’s brilliantly simple yet highly versatile, extremely durable, and the fact that it’s easy to configure and customize has made it one of the most produced and copied guitar concepts.

1921 Gibson Mandocello Style K1 SOLD

The Gibson Mandocello was built between 1902 and 1943, as the Style K1. The Style K2 was built from 1902 to 1922, and was basically a dressed-up version of the K1.

An Evening of Bluegrass – December 8 2014

Join us for an Evening of Bluegrass with Marc Roy at The Twelfth Fret Monday December 8 2014, from 7 to 9 PM.

1965 Gibson Country Western (consignment) SOLD

This example of the 1965 Gibson Country Western is in good overall and playing condition. It has had its major service – a neck reset – so the neck angle is very good with plenty of saddle for action adjustments.

1956 Gibson ES-225T (consignment) SOLD

Built from 1955 to 1959, the Gibson ES-225T was a thinline but fully hollow, single P-90 pickup, florentine cutaway guitar. In 1956, a two pickup version was introduced, the ES-225TD.

SS Stewart Special Thoroughbred Banjo

Shown here is a lovely SS Stewart Special Thoroughbred Banjo, built in 1895 and in completely playable condition. This open-back style banjo features the original tailpiece, and a period dowel stick adjusster. This is one of the few we’ve seen that have all the stickers and plaques complete and in place.

2008 Roger Stuckless SCE Nylon Crossover (consignment) SOLD

Roger Stuckless builds exceptionally high quality instruments to custom order. He is well known for his high level of craftsmanship and creativity. This Roger Stuckless SCE model was built in 2008 and is in near mint condition.

❌SOLD❌ Manuel Velazquez Classical Guitar, 1969

Manuel Velazquez has been near the top of North American classical guitar builders for decades. This Ano 1969 Manuel Velazquez Classical guitar was built in 1969, after Velazquez’ 1966 return to the US. At this point, he was working alone and building 10 to 15 instruments per year.

1954 Guild X-350 Stratford Sunburst Archtop (consignment) SOLD

Guild began producing instruments in 1952, and at opening its staff included a number of people from Epiphone who naturally brought their influences with them. The Guild X-350 Stratford was heavily influenced by the Epiphone Emperor Zephyr Regent, down to the pushbutton pickup selector.

1925 Weymann Banjo 5 String Conversion (consignment) SOLD

Weymann banjos are fairly rare and have some unusual features, one of which is most noticeable with the resonator removed. The Weymann company began producing banjos around the turn of the 20th century, and often used the ‘Keystone’ name. In 1924, tenor and plectrum models appeared, and these are the best known Weymann Banjo models.

2014 Martin D-18 Authentic (consignment) SOLD

Here’s something that is rarely available – a brand new, custom order Martin D-18 Authentic. It hasn’t been played or out of its case for more than a few minutes (not counting the hour the photos took).

Peter Coombe Mandola (consignment)

This fine 1999 Peter Coombe Mandola is built with European spruce for the top, Tasmanian Myrtle for the sides, back, and neck, and ebony for the fingerboard and headplate. The pickguard is birds-eye maple, and it’s finished with a traditional varnish.

2010 Sergei de Jonge Classical Guitar NO LONGER AVAILABLE

From his shop in Chelsea, Quebec, Sergei de Jonge comes up with some innovative designs, and excecutes them flawlessly. This 2010 Sergei de Jonge Classical Guitar features a lattice braced, combination spruce and cedar top with Indian Rosewood for the back, sides and headplate, mahogany for the neck, and ebony for the fingerboard and bridge.

1992 Gibson Chet Atkins SST Solidbody Acoustic (consignment) SOLD

In addition to being a great player, Chet Atkins came up with many great ideas to push the guitar forward. During his association with Gibson, two novel instruments appeared: the Gibson Chet Akins CE Classical Electric, and the Gibson Chet Atkins SST solidbody acoustic.

1993 Oskar Graf Classical (consignment) SOLD

Oskar Graf has been building fine quality guitars since 1970, and works near Clarendon, Ontario. In his small shop he has produced many excellent instruments, focusing mainly on guitars.

1939 Gibson J-35 SOLD

The Gibson J-35 featured a spruce top with mahogany for the back, sides and neck, and rosewood for the fingerboard and bridge. Originally, the available finish was sunburst, as this hides many visual flaws in otherwise good-sounding and usable wood, which in turn lowers costs and price.

2010 Collings DS2H Slot Head 12-Fret (consignment) SOLD

This Collings DS2H features a Stika Spruce top, Indian Rosewood back, sides and headplate, and ebony for the fingerboard and bridge. The top is bound with herringbone purfling and the back features a herringbone center strip.

1955 Gibson J-45 (SOLD)

This 1955 Gibson J-45 has clearly been played, and has had some work done over the years; the original strip-mount Kluson Deluxe tuners have been replaced with Grover Roto-Matic models and a Fishman pickup with endpin jack has been added, and at some point the bridge was replaced with a fixed-saddle design.

1995 Fender Stratocaster Flip Flop Finish (consignment) SOLD

Here’s something cool and unusual – a 1995 Fender Stratocaster Flip Flop Finish. The Flip Flop finish offers a range of looks – what colour it shows depends on the viewing angle. From some directions, this instrument is blue or teal, from others, it’s trending to purple.

1992 Ramirez SP Classical Guitar SOLD

For a brief period in the early 1990s, Ramirez Guitars offered a model called the Ramirez SP (Semi-Professional). In the early 1990s I received several of these SP guitars: fitted with simple Estudio labels but marked with the letters SP. They were clearly FAR superior to any Estudio guitar and the woods and interior bracing suggest that they were a variation on the 1a Professional Especial model.

1984 Fender DAquisto Standard Archtop Black (consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely 1984 Fender DAquisto Standard Archtop Black. In late 1983, in a co-operative effort with James D’Aquisto, Fender introduced the single-cutaway, fully hollow D’Aquisto Archtop as part of the Master Series. The Fender D’Aquisto models include the Elite (with one pickup and gold hardware) and the Standard (two pickups and chrome hardware).

Robert Johnson Instructional Ukulele Night with Doug Cameron

Join us for an evening of Ukulele Blues! Doug Cameron will be demonstrating Robert Johnson tunes on ukulele.

TC Electronic G System (consignment) SOLD

Here we have a TC Electronic G system. Aside from its quality and flexibility, and its tank-like construction, its design is interesting. It is basically two systems, a rack-mount processor bolted under a controller board. This means that the processing unit can be removed and installed in a rack for permanent mount in a studio.

2006 Tom Anderson Classic Sunburst SOLD

Tom Anderson’s shop builds a small number of instruments, focusing on quality rather than quantity.

New Old Stock! Martin 000-18 Authentic 1937 Model SOLD

New Old Stock! Built in 2007, this Martin 000-18 Authentic 1937 Model is brand new with full warranty!

2009 Left Handed Gibson Les Paul Standard Cherry Sunburst SOLD

Left handed Les Pauls are not always easy to find, and lately it’s even harder to even order one. At the time of writing, this 2009 Left Handed Gibson Les Paul Standard Cherry Sunburst is one of the only left-handed Gibson Les Pauls available as new in Canada. Since it’s new old stock, the original warranty applies to the purchaser.

1978 Fender Telecaster Thinline Natural (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

This example of the 1978 Fender Telecaster Thinline Natural is in good playing order, with some normal play wear and dings. At some point two holes were made on either side of the bridge and these have been plugged. There is a moderate amount of fretwear and some finish wear along the treble side of the fingerboard; this guitar has been played!

Fender American Standard Limited Edition Stratocaster (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

Whoa! A new Strat! This guitar, the Fender American Standard Limited Edition Stratocaster, is very comfortable to play, and the compound radius board really works well.

1958 Gibson J-45 (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

The immensely successful slope-shoulder dreadnought design of the Gibson J-45 produces a distinctively warm, full tone with sparkling highs and rich midrange tones, and a well represented but not booming bottom end. It’s also fairly loud, but not overwhelmingly so.

1963 Gibson J-50 Natural (consignment) SOLD

This 1963 Gibson J-50 Natural is in quite good playing order, with lots of saddle height. It plays well and sounds great – it has been played over the years and you can tell from the tone.

1974 Rickenbacker 330 Natural (consignment) SOLD

One of the iconic 1960’s guitars, the Rickenbacker 330 features a mostly hollow maple body with a distinctive ‘crescent moon’ cutway body style.

1976 William Laskin Cactus Guitar SOLD

This 1976 William Laskin Cactus Guitar is named (by us) for the fingerboard inlay. Between the last fret and the soundhole, there is a small inlay of a cactus and a moon, rendered in mother of pearl and abalone.

1966 Epiphone FT-79 Texan Acoustic (consignment) SOLD

It’s almost a certainty that you’ve heard a mid-1960’s Epiphone FT-79 Texan – Paul McCartney used his on the recording of ‘Yesterday’, which appeared on the 1965 Beatles album ‘Help!” and as a single; and on the tune ‘Blackbird’, on the Beatles’ White Album.

1972 Marshall Model 1958 2×10 Combo (consignment) SOLD

Between 1968 and 1972, Marshall built a number of ‘combo’ style amplifiers, where the amp and speakers are in one cabinet. This 1972 Marshall Model 1958 2×10 Combo features four inputs on two channels; channel 2 has a vibrato circuit.

1900 Williams and Son Echo Style 17 Banjo SOLD

Made circa 1900, this Williams and Son Echo Style 17 banjo still plays beautifully. Thrilling to play a 100 year old instrument that still plays as it did when new.

1985 Mesa Boogie Mark III Combo Amplifier (consignment) SOLD

The Mesa Boogie Mark III combo added a third ‘crunch’ channel to the Boogie’s standard rhythm and lead channels. The controls are generally shared between channels as is the switchable EQ.

1999 Schoenberg Soloist OM SOLD

This specific 1999 Schoenberg Soloist OM was built by at Martin Dana Bourgeois before he launched his own shop and label. It is built with an Adirondack Spruce top, Brazilian rosewood back,sides and headplate, mahogany neck, with snowflake-inlaid ebony for the fingerboard and pyramid style bridge.

2008 Lowden 025C Natural (consignment) SOLD

This 2008 Lowden 025C is in great condition with just a few dings and minor playwear. The combination of a Cedar top and Indian Rosewood back and sides on the jumbo body produce a full, rich and very well articulated sound with lots of volume and projection.

1964 Fender Precision Bass Sunburst (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

By 1964, the Fender Precision Bass was the most used electric bass in the world, appearing on all kinds of stages and recordings and spawning endless numbers of copies.

1963 Fender Precision Bass Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

This example of the 1963 Fender Precision Bass in Sunburst is in great playing condition, and is largely original. There is lots of buckle wear on the back, and the neck finish is worn; the decals are in good condition and not flaked off.

1974 Guild Starfire Bass II Blonde (SOLD)

The Guild Starfire Bass II was popular with a number of high-profile bass players in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, notably Jack Casady of Jefferson Airplane, Phil Lesh of the Greatful Dead and Berry Oakley of the Allman Brothers Band.

1997 PRS Custom 22 (consignment) SOLD

Today we have a great looking and great playing 1997 PRS Custom 22 with a cherry finish on the top.

2007 PRS SC245 Gold Top (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a well used, and well taken care of, 2007 PRS SC245 Gold Top. The SC245 is Paul Reed Smith’s take on the classic single cutaway guitar.

1997 PRS SC245 Gold Top (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a well used, and well taken care of, 1997 PRS SC245 Gold Top. The SC245 is Paul Reed Smith’s take on the classic single cutaway guitar.

1964 Gibson J-50 Domenic Troiano Session Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a guitar with history. This Gibson J-50 in natural was owned by the late, great Domenic Troiano and was used by him on many recording sessions. It’s in great playing condition and ready for use, with no appreciable fret wear and a decent setup.

1967 Ramirez 2a Flamenco ‘Fracas’ Guitar SOLD

The Ramírez 1a and 2a Flamenco Models are the benchmark for flamenco performers and Master-Luthiers world-wide. We refer to this example of the 1967 Ramirez 2a Flamenco as ‘The Fracas Guitar’ because of its history. It was built in 1967, with the serial 2.261.

2001 Sergei deJonge Steel String (consignment) SOLD

Tonally, this 2001 Sergei de Jonge cutaway steel string is huge. It’s fairly loud, the highs are rich and sparkling, the midrange is fully represented and the bass strings have the bell-like resonance of a plucked Grand. This could be a spectacular instrument to sit and play – or listen to – or record.

1963 Gibson J-45 Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson J-45 is justifiably one of the most popular steel string guitars ever. The physical design of the slope-shoulder dreadnought is comfortable standing or sitting – not too large – and the tone is full, rich and warm without being boomy in the bottom or harsh in the high end. It fits perfectly into many musical genres.

1950s Arnold Hoyer Archtop Herr im Frack SOLD

The Arnold Hoyer archtop Herr im Frack, or “Gentleman in Tails’ was introduced in the late 1940s and was popular throughout the 1950s as a professional quality guitar. These instruments were very important as quality guitars were in short supply during the long recovery from the war.

1962 Martin F-55 Electric (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a rarity: A 1962 Martin F-55 Electric in good condition. This instrument appears to be complete and all original with the possible exception of the bridge. It plays quite well, with some fretwear.

1956 Gibson SJ Acoustic (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The Gibson SJ, or Southern Jumbo, was Gibson’s slope-shoulder answer to the Martin square-shoulder dreadnought. It was introduced in 1942 with Sunburst as the available finish until 1954. This example of the 1956 Gibson SJ is in good playing condition, with lots of wear. This guitar has been used as intended!

2005 Gibson Les Paul 1959 Reissue (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a beautiful piece – a 2005 Gibson Les Paul 1959 Reissue, with a nicely flamed top and ‘teaburst’ sunburst. This is a reissue of the 1959 Gibson Les Paul, and it’s hardly been out of its case and played even less.

1972 Gibson ES-345TD Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

This example of the Gibson ES-345TD (the TD standing for Thinline body, Double pickups) is in good physical condition with no breaks, little scratching and one small chip at the top of the back of the head. It’s in good playing condition; it was professionally refretted and there isn’t a lot of wear on the frets.

Gibson F-9 Mandolin

The Gibson F-9 mandolin is a ‘no frills’ model featuring a carved and tuned spruce top and flame maple back, flame maple sides and neck, and a rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Only the top is bound, and the instrument sports a satin finish in a vintage brownburst.

1974 Guild Starfire II Walnut (consignment) SOLD

This 1974 Guild Starfire II Walnut is in good shape and is a good example of the quality of Guild instruments. The Starfire II is a fully hollow, 17 inch mahogany guitar with floating rosewood bridge and a florentine cutaway. The lacquer finish is lightly checked and there are just a few dings and scratches. It plays quite well and is set up with a moderately low action.

2006 Zemaitis Greco GZMF 500 (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The Zemaitis Greco GZMF 500 is part of the GZ line, handbuilt in Japan by Greco under license from Zemaitis. These are top quality instruments. The body and neck are single pieces of Honduran mahogany, with an ebony board and headplate. The metal parts are Duralumin in the original Zemaitis design and a lot of engraving and decoration.

1988 Ibanez George Benson GB-10 (consignment) SOLD

This example of the Ibanez George Benson GB-10 is in very good condition, with light play wear; with a good clean it could look near mint but aged. The binding has yellowed very nicely, perhaps to the tone of a 1950’s guitar.

2012 Fender American Standard Jazz Bass (consignment) SOLD

This 2012 Fender American Standard Jazz Bass is in fantastic, near mint condition. It’s all original with Fender Custom Shop pickups and rosewood fingerboard with dot position markers, and the alder body sports a classic 3-tone sunburst and faux tortoise pickguard. The strings mount through the back onto the new High Mass Vintage bridge – this is just as adjustable as the original vintage bridge but with much more weight to add sustain and clarity.

Michael Schatte at The Twelfth Fret Monday September 8

Michael will bring his artistry to the Twelfth Fret for an in-store clinic/performance on Monday, September 8th, 2014.

The focus of the session will be Michael’s work on the National Steel guitar, including slide playing, alternate tunings, gear choices, finger style approaches, and the hybrid picking that characterizes much of his guitar work. Michael will also showcase material to be released on his forthcoming album later this year.

1995 Rickenbacker 360v64 Fireglo (consignment) SOLD

To my eye this is one of the most distinctive guitar shapes – in a 1995 Rickenbacker 360v64 Fireglo. Introduced in 1958, the Rickenbacker 360 became popular in Europe, sometimes under other names and with subtle differences – for example, the Rose-Morris 1993 on the Who’s iconic Maximum R&B poster. But for many people in North America, what really brought the 360 to attention was the 12-string version used by George Harrison.

SOLD ! !National Resophonic NRP 12 Fret Left Handed (consignment) 2009

Here’s a great piece – a well worn 2009 National Resophonic NRP 12 Fret Left Handed in shaded green. The NRP is designed to capture the look and feel of of the first National Duolians, and is available in 12 and 14 fret versions.

Stelling Sunflower Banjo New Old Stock SOLD

Here’s a great deal on a Stelling Sunflower Banjo! This New Old Stock 2012 model is at the 2012 price – $3850, a savings of $645! It’s new with all warranties; it’s been tucked away in our Banjo room and was recently rediscovered during inventory.

Gibson Les Paul Traditional with P-90s and Bigsby (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

Here’s a Gibson Les Paul Traditional with P-90s and Bigsby – and its’ a very interesting factory Bigsby installation. The Gibson Les Paul Traditional is based on late 1950’s Les Paul models. Using the traditional Les Paul construction, the top is carved maple, the back is a 2-piece mahogany slab with only the original wiring routing; the neck is also mahogany, using the late 1950’s profile, with bound rosewood fingerboard and the classic trapezoidal markers. It has Kluson Deluxe tuners with plastic keystone buttons and a wireless ABR bridge made by TonePros.

2001 Sergei de Jonge Cutaway Steel String (consignment) SOLD

The example of a 2001 Sergei de Jonge cutaway steel string demonstrates many of the qualities of Sergei’s skill. The workmanship and joinery are very good, and the design is very successful visually and tonally.

1972 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Gold Top (consignment) SOLD

This 1972 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Gold Top is in good playing condition with lots of vintage vibe. The gold has checked nicely and faded to a slight greenish tint. Correct for the period, it has a 3-piece neck and a 4-piece body.

1977 Guild X-175 Blonde Manhattan Archtop (consignment) SOLD

Here is a very nice 1977 Guild X-175 Blonde Manhattan Archtop. Guild archtops are not extremely common, but are highly valued. Originally drawing from the heritage of the Epiphone workforce, Guild has produced many extremely good instruments over the years. They feature solid, practical designs, excellent wood selection, and top level craftsmanship.

Gibson Flying V History 120th Anniversary (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

There are few guitars more instantly recognizable than the Gibson Flying V. Prototyped in 1957 and introduced in 1958 as part of a wave of radically futuristic designs, the Flying V sold so poorly that it was dropped in 1958. Perhaps 98 production models (made with Korina wood) were shipped, and these are extremely collectable – and expensive.

1944 Gibson J-45 (SOLD)

Here’s a great early piece – a 1944 Gibson J-45, built during the third year of production. Drawing heavily on the design of the just-discontinued J-35, the J-45 mostly differs with stiffer X bracing, tall, thin and scalloped top bracing, a fatter, non-V neck profile, and only being available with a sunburst finish.

2010 Hofner 500/1 Cavern Bass (consignment) SOLD

The Hofner 500/1 Cavern Bass is a reproduction of the first 500/1 purchased by Paul McCartney in 1961 and is named after London’s Cavern club, where so many bands played. Some went on to become great, others – not so much. McCartney used his Cavern bass while recording ‘Let it Be’ and ‘Revolution’.

SOLD!!! Gretsch 130th Anniversary Junior – G6118T LTV JR

Here is the very, very cool Gretsch 130th Anniversary Junior – G6118T LTV JR. Gretsch has from time to time made smaller-bodied versions of their guitars, perhaps to balance out the giant Falcon and Country Club models.

But this isn’t a ‘Mini’ guitar – the body is smaller, close to the size of a George Benson model, but it’s full scale so the tension and tone are all there.

1950 Gibson Super 400 Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson Super 400 was the top of the line for many years, and appeared on stages in many genres. It was not only popular with jazz players, but also with country and rock guitarists; Merle Travis of course used a Super 400 CES and Scotty Moore recorded a lot of early Elvis material on his Super 400.

1944 Gibson J-45 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s an original – a 1944 Gibson J-45, built during the first year of production. Drawing heavily on the design of the just-discontinued J-35, the J-45 mostly differs with stiffer X bracing, tall, thin and scalloped top bracing, a fatter, non-V neck profile, and only being available with a sunburst finish.

2000 Marc Beneteau Cutaway Classical Crossover SOLD

This is a beautiful and well-preserved piece – a 2000 Marc Beneteau cutaway classical crossover, featuring very nicely figured cocobolo sides and back and a cedar top. It has almost no wear; the finish has sunk into the wood, which is a natural part of aging, and that’s pretty much the only sign that this isn’t a new instrument.

The Capo is Often Misunderstood Or Dismissed As A Cheater

Should you use a capo, or is it cheating?

1978 Fender Jazz Bass (consignment) SOLD

Here is a very well preserved 1978 Fender Jazz Bass in a custom colour. Officially, this colour was designated ‘Walnut’, but many people call it ‘Mocha’ – which was never an official colour.

2009 Ernie Ball Music Man Axis Super Sport 25th Anniversary SOLD

This 2009 Ernie Ball Music Man Axis Super Sport 25th Anniversary is in very clean condition with very little wear. These instruments play very well, and the combination of the maple cap on basswood balances the tone and makes the guitar quite light.

SOLD!!! 2014 Gibson Byrdland

The Gibson Byrdland features a unique blend of large and small; a full 17 inch wide body with a 2.5 inch depth, and a rather short 23.5 inch scale length that’s intended to allow players to grab big chords and play fast.

1960 Gibson ES-175D (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson ES-175D first appeared in 1953, as a two P-90 pickup version of the single pickup ES-175 introduced in 1949. In 1957, Gibson added their all-new humbucking pickups to the ES-175, along with much of the rest of their lineup. Over the years, the Gibson ES-175D has become known as just the ES-175.

1965 Edgar Monch Classical Guitar SOLD

This 1965 Edgar Monch Classical Guitar is from just before his Toronto period, one of the last from Munich. It has a clear, commanding voice with a full, rich tone and is suitable for the hands of an advanced or professional guitarist. It has a clear, commanding voice with a full, rich tone. It’s had some top cracks repaired, and is structurally in good condition. Of a similar design to Hauser guitars of the period, It features a spruce top, Indian rosewood back and sides and bridge, an ebony fingerboard with 650mm scale length and 50mm nut width.

2013 Taylor 912e Steel String (consignment) SOLD

The Taylor 912e is in the top range of Taylor’s rosewood model lines. It’s built with Sitka Spruce top, Indian rosewood for the back and sides, tropical Mahogany for the neck and ebony for the fingerboard and bridge.

2010 PRS JA-15 McCarty Burst (consignment) SOLD

2010 PRS JA-15 McCarty Burst

1993 Marc Beneteau 00 Guitar SOLD

Cleanly built, with a very well balanced tone, this 1993 Marc Beneteau 00 guitar is a good example of his work. It offers good representation throughout the sonic range with full but not overpowering bass, rich midrange, and sparkling highs.

1983 Gibson L-5 CES Archtop (consignment) SOLD

This 1983 example of the Gibson L-5 CES is in very good condition with a natural finish. There’s very little wear and the gold plating is in quite good shape; it’s possible that the original owner rested a fingertip on the pickguard and the corner of the bridge pickup, and there’s a little corrosion in the plating there.

2012 Benedetto Bravo Sunburst Archtop (consignment) SOLD

The Benedetto Bravo was introduced to meet a need for a top-quality archtop that a player could travel with. The body uses a laminated spruce top and laminated maple back and sides – laminated woods are much less prone than solid woods to movement or cracking from natural changes in environmental temperature and humidity.

2011 Huber TrueTone VRB-4 Banjo (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a very clean 2011 Huber TrueTone VRB-4 Banjo. The VRB-4 is a replica of pre-war (WWII) style banjos, and features walnut construction, HR-30 tone ring and engineered rim.

G.W. Barry Guitars Mod-C Handmade Guitar Showcase

resenting the new Mod-C from G.W. Barry Guitars in Malaysian Blackwood and Italian Spruce with Snakewood appointments. This is one of the many transcendent custom built offerings you can experience at this weekend’s Handmade Guitar Showcase at Chalker’s Pub, Billiards and Bistro – 247 Marlee Avenue, Toronto.

1995 Gibson ES-335 Dot Vintage Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

Introduced in 1958, the Gibson ES-335 Dot was an immediate success and while details have changed over the years, it’s been in production ever since. The tonal versatility of the design has taken it into many different styles, from jazz to pop, from blues to hard rock.

2004 Ron Belanger Dreadnought (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Today we’re visited by a lovely Ron Belanger dreadnought guitar in Bubinga. Ron Belanger works in the area of Orillia, Ontario, where he’s been a woodworker for many years. In 1998 he started building guitars, and in addition to the instrument pictured here, builds Irish Bouzoukis, resophonic guitars, and 12-strings.

1945 Martin 0-17T Tenor Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Tenor guitars like this Martin 0-17T were very popular for quite some time, partly because they’re fairly portable and with only four strings, perhaps easier to use as an accompanying instrument to a voice. They seem to have fallen out of favour with the rise of amplified music, but have a solid place in some country and Celtic styles.

1927 Gibson L-4 Archtop (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The Gibson L-4 was built between 1912 and 1956, and underwent a number of changes. Originally it had – like many archtops of the time – an oval soundhole; this changed to a round soundhole in 1928, and finally to the now-common F-holes in 1935.

2006 Gibson L-5 CES Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

2006 Gibson L-5 CES Sunburst

1965 Gibson C-1E Classical (consignment) SOLD

In the early 1960’s, Gibson – like other manufacturers – responded to the change in markets caused by the folk boom. These instruments, like the Gibson C-1e Classical were not really meant to be strictly traditional classical guitars – they were meant to play softer folk styles, often with a pick.

1982 Ramirez 1a Classical Guitar SOLD

The Ramirez 1a is the benchmark, the standard for professional, concert level classical guitars. Built entirely in the Ramirez shop in Madrid, Spain, the 1a uses the best materials available, and comes in Classical and Flamenco versions.

1975 Kohno No 10 Classical Guitar (consignment) SOLD

At a young age, Masaru Kohno developed an interest in classical guitar and travelled from Japan to Europe to learn guitar construction. He may have spent some time in Barcelona studying under Fleta, but certainly spent six months in the Madrid, Spain shop of Arcangel Fernandez before returning to Tokyo where he established his own shop. He quickly gained the respect and patronage of many highly skilled guitarists, and his instruments are regarded as top quality.

1972 Gibson Les Paul Custom (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson Les Paul Custom model was introduced in 1954 as an upmarket version of the still-infant Les Paul model. Instead of a maple cap on a mahogany slab, the body was all mahogany, and came in black with gold hardware. The original versions featured single-coil Alnico pickups, notable for their rectangular polepieces, and the now-ubiquitous Tune-o-Matic bridge and stop tailpiece combination.

1952 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top (consignment)

And here it is, needing little introduction – an all original 1952 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top. Gibson introduced the Les Paul model in 1952, and produced it as seen here for only a short time.

1985 Sergei de Jonge 8 String Classical Guitar (consignment) SOLD

This 1985 Sergei de Jonge 8 string classical guitar is in very good condition and has a full, rich tone with sparkling highs and really way down deep lows. It’s really a remarkable experience to sit and play an instrument like this!

1964 Fender Jaguar Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

Introduced in 1962 and built until 1975, the Fender Jaguar was intended to be the top of the line model aimed at Gibson players – the Jaguar features a 24 inch scale length, compared to Fender’s usual 25.5 inch scale and Gibson’s 24.75 inch.

1970 Gibson Hummingbird Custom SOLD

This is a 1970 Gibson Hummingbird Custom, and while it’s seen a lot of playing in smoky rooms over the years, it’s got a great sound and is in overall decent condition.

1972 Ramirez Flamenco 1a Guitar SOLD

Ramirez guitars are special to play; so much of the history of guitar music is interwoven with the history of the Ramirez guitar shop. This is a 1972 Ramirez Flamenco 1a Guitar in very nice condition. Featuring traditional construction with friction tuners, cedar top, cypress back and sides, Spanish cedar neck and Spanish construction, this guitar is loud and brilliant yet not harsh.

The Handmade Guitar Showcase

The Handmade Guitar Showcase is developed by Allan Gorman and David Wren, and features twenty-five of Canada’s preeminent guitar makers in the informal atmosphere of one of Toronto’s finest jazz venues. In conjunction with the Toronto Jazz Festival, Chalkers Bistro is hosting an event that brings together some of our most talented craftspeople displaying a diverse array of their guitars … from electric, to flattop to carved tops.

2004 Martin OM-40 Rory Block SOLD

This is very nice – a 2004 Martin OM-40 Rory Block in great shape. Aside from the basic fact that the OM guitar design works so well from tonal and playability perspectives, this guitar is very attractive and has an unusual ‘Road’ themed inlay pattern!

2007 Martin 00-42K2 Robbie Robertson SOLD

The first of the run, a 2007 Martin 00-42K2 Robbie Robertson in pristine condition. This is number one of one hundred built, and it’s a spectacular instrument, visually and tonally.

1963 Fender Bass VI (consignment) SOLD

Relatively rare, this 1963 Fender Bass VI is in good visual, working and playing condition. Introduced in 1961 and built till 1975, Leo Fender intended the Fender Bass VI to be both a bass and a baritone guitar. But it was never the roaring success that the Precision Bass, the Telecaster or the Stratocaster were, and only about 800 of the original design were made. However, some of those 800 appear in influential music of the time, including the Lovin’ Spooful albums, The Beatles White Album, Let It Be and Abbey Road.

1954 Fender Stratocaster (consignment) SOLD

This 1954 Fender Stratocaster is both one of the youngest and the oldest. Leo Fender introduced the Stratocaster in the spring of 1954, and the last date on this particular guitar is on the end of the neck: TG 10-54, for Tadeo Gomez, signing off in October, 1954.

2012 Andreas Kirmse Classical Guitar (consignment) SOLD

It is a joy to open a case and find an instrument like this 2012 Andreas Kirmse Classical Guitar. Hand built with a double cedar top, rosewood back and sides with sound port on the upper bass bout, mahogany neck and raised ebony fingerboard, this fine instrument illustrates the high level of current classical guitar construction.

1990 Fender Signature Edition 59 Stratocaster SOLD

This has just arrived – a 1990 Fender Signature Edition 59 Stratocaster, in really great condition. With all original hardware and very little wear, this reproduction of a 1959 model is a great deal.

1959 Gibson Les Paul Junior (consignment) SOLD

It’s not often we see guitars as clean as this 1959 Gibson Les Paul Junior. This guitar is in very good condition, with a few small marks on the top and back, but very little play wear.

Beard JD Blackbeard Jerry Douglas Signature Squareneck

Here it is – the Beard JD Blackbird Jerry Douglas Signature Squareneck. A cosmetically stripped down version of the Beard Jerry Douglas Signature model, the Beard JD Blackbird features the E model body built with solid mahogany top, back, sides and neck and a very interesting translucent black finish.

1988 Martin D-18P Dreadnought (consignment) SOLD

This 1988 Martin D-18P is a subtle variation of the basic D-18 design, with a lower-profile ‘Performer’ series neck shape. This example is in quite good condition, and has that clean, tight D-18 tone.

1961 Gibson J-45 Adjustable Bridge (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

It’s always a pleasure to play guitars like this 1961 Gibson J-45 adjustable bridge. The body design and neck shape are very comfortable, and they produce an envelopingly warm, rich tone, especially if they’ve been part of a lot of playing over the decades, as this one has.

Ukulele Night with Douglas John Cameron – 2 JUNE – 2014

It’s Ukulele Night! Come on out to The Twelfth Fret on Monday June 2nd, 7 to 9 PM for a beginner’s Ukulele clinic with Douglas John Cameron. Price: $20, which gets you entry PLUS a $20 Twelfth Fret Gift Card, redeemable for full face value during normal store hours.

2011 Martin OM-28 Custom Twelfth Fret 35th Anniversary (consignment) SOLD

For The Twelfth Fret’s 35th anniversary in 2011,we commissioned a number of instruments including this Martin OM-28 Custom. Featuring a spruce top and Indian Rosewood back and sides, with herringbone binding on the top and ‘zipper’ back strip, this guitar is in very good condition.

1962 Gibson J45 Sunburst (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Here’s a 1962 Gibson J45 Sunburst in good playing condition – and with that great vintage J-45 sound. The Gibson J-45 was introduced in 1942, and has been in production ever since.

1997 Guild Starfire 4 Blonde Maple Thinline Guitar (consignment) SOLD

1997 Guild Starfire 4 Blonde Maple Thinline Guitar

2004 German Vasquez Rubio Flamenco Blanca Guitar (consignment) SOLD

This 2004 German Vasquez Rubio Flamenco Guitar is really quite exceptional. As with most Flamenco Blanco instruments, it’s quite light but it’s also extremely resonant and responsive — it’s almost as if you are playing a living instrument.

❌SOLD❌ Gibson Super 400 1939 Reissue, 1999

This 1999 Gibson Super 400 1939 Reissue is in near immaculate condition, with a carved spruce top, carved and very highly flamed maple back, flame maple sides and neck. There is no significant wear.

1941 Gibson L7 Sunburst Archtop Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Today we have a very clean 1941 Gibson L7 Sunburst Archtop Guitar. This guitar comes with a copy of the original sales contract, to a young man about to go into the US Coast Guard.

1965 Manuel G Contreras Classical Guitar SOLD

This 1965 Manuel G Contreras Classical Guitar is in good playing condition. Constructed with Spruce top and Brazilian Rosewood back and sides, it has a light French Polish finish.

2002 Morgan Concert Cutaway Koa Steel String Guitar (consignment) SOLD

This is a lovely 2002 Morgan Concert Cutaway Koa Steel String Guitar, in excellent condition. It’s a full size guitar with a rounded Venetian cutaway, distinguishing it as an older model; most cutaway Morgans are now Florentine (pointed). The highly figured Koa back and sides are very attractive, but also add a warm brilliance to the tone.

Sunburst 1972 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a lovely Sunburst 1972 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe. Gibson introduced the Les Paul Deluxe in 1968 and it was produced until 1985. The Gibson Les Paul Deluxe is very similar in construction to the Les Paul Standard. The primary differences are in the pickup routes and the actual pickups

1967 Deep Green Guild Starfire XII (consignment) SOLD

Here’s something unusual! A 1967 Deep Green Guild Starfire XII in good playing condition, though the finish is worn. Guild introduced the Starfire in 1960 as a thinline semi-hollow single cutaway guitar. By 1963, the double-cutaway Starfire IV was introduced.

1998 Martin D-28 Dreadnought (consignment) SOLD

This is a very clean 1998 Martin D-28 Dreadnought guitar. Martin introduced the Dreadnought body shape in 1916, building the first ones for the Oliver Ditson company – these did not carry the Martin brand name. These instruments had mahogany backs and sides, and the necks joined the body at the twelfth fret. The Ditson company disappeared in 1920, and the Dreadnought guitar went with it.

1955 Silvertone S1384 Archtop Guitar REDUCED

This is seriously cool – a 1955 Silvertone S1384 Archtop Guitar. This guitar is virtually identical to the 1955 Harmony Espanada model, with the difference being the branding logos.

Taylor 320e Baritone SLTD Guitar SOLD

The Taylor Spring Limited series is back! We’ve just received a Taylor 320e Baritone SLTD guitar and it’s really something. This baritone guitar, based on the dreadnought body, features sapele back and sides paired with a mahogany top, a mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard and bridge.

2011 Sadowsky Jimmy Bruno Archtop (consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely 2011 Sadowsky Jimmy Bruno Archtop. It’s in great condition with one small chip at the end of the headstock, plays very well and has a wonderful smooth sound.

1958 Gibson J200 Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

The iconic Gibson J200 isn’t just an impressive looking guitar. It can be an incredibly good sounding instrument. This example of 1958 Gibson J200 Sunburst production is in quite good condition and has a full, rich sound. The tuners were changed at some point to period Epiphone gears.

1955 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster (consignment) SOLD

Following the success of the Telecaster, Leo Fender decided to expand his product range and in 1954, introduced the Stratocaster. This 1955 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster is a decent example of early Stratocaster production.

2003 Gibson SJ 200 Standard (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson SJ 200 is one of the iconic steel string flat top guitars. Introduced in 1937, it was an immediate hit. While it’s a fairly large guitar – according to the 1938 Gibson catalog, the SJ stands for Super Jumbo, after all – it’s actually quite comfortable to play. Tonally, it’s very even, and can be rather loud with great projection.

2012 Gibson 1958 Les Paul Standard Reissue R8 (consignment) SOLD

This is a rather nice 2012 example of the Gibson 1958 Les Paul Standard Reissue R8. The R8 is just a short form for ‘1958 Reissue’, as the R9 model is the 1959 reissue; the main difference now is the neck profile. The R8 has a somewhat chunkier neck compared to the R9.

2004 Avalon Legacy A10c Cutaway Jumbo SOLD

The Avalon Legacy A10c is a cutaway jumbo guitar resembling earlier Lowden guitars but with an Auditorium body (hence the A designation). Tonally, it’s well balanced with good volume. Physically, it is in good condition with a few small dings.

2004 Avalon Legacy A10c Cutaway Jumbo

The Avalon Legacy 10c is a cutaway jumbo guitar closely resembling earlier Lowden guitars, such as the O-32c and L-32c. It features a cedar top with mahogany back and sides and a mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard. Tonally, it’s well balanced with good volume. Physically, it is in good condition with a few small dings.

Lavant Green Little Walter Tube Amps 22 Watt Head with 1×12 Cabinet SOLD

Here is a very cool Lavant Green Little Walter Tube Amps 22 Watt Head with 1×12 Cabinet, built to The Twelfth Fret’s specifications.The Little Walter 22 Watt head has two channels, normal and bright; each has a volume control but share a tone control. It’s capable of great breakup with good volume and lots of character. It’s based on the Little Walter 15-watt model, but with larger power and output transformers.

2010 Kanilea Custom Tenor Ukulele SOLD

This 2010 Kanilea Custom Tenor Ukulele might be the best-sounding uke I’ve ever played. Of course it’s comfortable to play and has a good action, but the tone is outstanding, with a rich fullness and great harmonic overtones, excellent separation between notes, and very good sustain.

2008 Fender Twin Reverb Amp 65 Reissue (consignment) SOLD

This 2008 Fender Twin Reverb Amp 65 Reissue is in great condition, very clean and all original, with original 12 inch Jensen C-12K speakers. No cover or footswitch included.

1976 Fender Starcaster Sunburst SOLD

Here’s something quite unusual – a 1976 Fender Starcaster Sunburst. The Starcaster was introduced around 1974-1975 and was produced until 1980 or 1982. While it’s a good design, and well built, it was never commercially successful; there’s apparently a perception that Fender makes solidbody guitars, and semi-hollows come from other makers like Gibson.

1950 Gibson L-7 P Premiere Cutaway Archtop (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Here is a wonderful 1950 Gibson L-7 P Premiere Cutaway Archtop. Gibson was a major player in the Archtop guitar world, with Epiphone as its main rival. And of course, after WW2 the volume wars were still being fought and amplification was the coming thing for guitars. In 1948, Ted McCarty filed a patent for the pickguard-mounted pickup assembly seen on this instrument (the patent was issued as #2,567,570 on September 11, 1951) and many others dating from its introduction at the 1948 Summer NAMM show until the mid 1950’s.

Ernie Ball Music Man Albert Lee MM90 (SOLD)

The Ernie Ball Music Man Albert Lee MM90 in candy apple red is one sweet looking and sounding guitar!

Bluegrass At The Twelfth Fret 7PM to 9PM Monday May 12 2014

Bluegrass At The Twelfth Fret 7PM to 9PM Monday May 12 2014. with Marc Roy, Will Meadows and Carol Simpson. When and Where: 7PM to 9PM, Monday May 12 2014 at The Twelfth Fret, 2132 Danforth Avenue, Toronto M4C 1J9. Price: $20 admission – your ticket is a gift card redeemable for $20 in store merchandise – an unbeatable deal!

2009 Gretsch Anniversary 6117T-HT SOLD

Here’s something relatively unusual – a 2009 Gretsch Anniversary 6117T-HT. This means it’s an Anniversary model, based on the venerable 6120 design, but with a sunburst finish, trestle bracing, and HiLo ‘Tron pickups.

2010 Sergei de Jonge Classical Guitar (consignment) SOLD

This is a beautiful 2010 Sergei de Jonge classical guitar with Brazilian Rosewood back and sides and an elevated fingerboard. Sergei de Jonge builds from his shop in Chelsea, Quebec, and has for many years been prominent in the Canadian lutherie scene; he also runs courses out of his shop, including instruction on French Polish finishes.

Pierre Rene Lacote Heptachorde circa 1840 (sold)

On display here is a very rare Pierre Rene Lacote Heptachorde circa 1840. Rene Lacote of Paris, Master Luthier of the Paris school of guitar makers was one of the most influential makers of the early nineteenth century. Today his guitars are sought after by both collectors and performers. Past guitarists who played guitars by Lacote include Ferdinando Carulli, Fernando Sor, Dionisio Aguado and Matteo Carcassi.

2009 Morris SS-102iii Grand Auditorium (consignment) SOLD

Today we’re looking at a 2009 Morris SS-102iii Grand Auditorium guitar. Morris guitars are built in Nagano, Japan. The company was founded before 1964 by Mr. Toshio Moridaira and was the first Japanese distributor to carry both Fender and Gibson instruments.

1929 Bakelite Neck National Triolian (consignment) SOLD

On display here is a 1929 1929 Bakelite Neck National Triolian. Bakelite-neck Nationals were made from about February 1929 to August 1930 for a production total of around 1800 instuments. Bakelite-neck Nationals are quite rare, for two main reasons.

Late 1950s Kay Model K5965 Hollowbody Electric Bass (consignment) SOLD

This is likely the best-condition Late 1950s Kay Model K5965 Hollowbody Electric Bass I’ve seen. There’s very little wear and one mark on the back. It looks like it’s spent most of its life in its case.

1965 Vox AC10 2×10 Combo Amplifier (consignment) SOLD

Here’s an all original 1965 Vox AC10 2×10 Combo Amplifier. Vox was the pre-eminent musical instrument amplifier manufacturer in the UK and much of Europe in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, and produced most of the amps used by the most popular bands at the time. If you’ve heard an early 1960’s pop or rock record from the UK – you’ve heard Vox amplifiers.

Gibson F-5L Fern Mandolin

It’s great to see Gibson mandolins again, as few and far between as they are. This Gibson F-5L Fern mandolin has the ‘L’ designation, for Lloyd Loar; the F-5L model was introduced in 1978 as a return to the specifications Lloyd Loar used on his original F-5 Master Model instruments between 1922 and 1924.

1983 Marc Beneteau Classical Cutaway (consignment) SOLD

Marc Beneteau has been building instruments in Ontario since at least 1974, and in that time has produced many archtop, steel string and classical guitars, plus a few other instruments like dulcimers and ukuleles. This 1983 Marc Beneteau Classical Cutaway demonstrates Marc’s skill and the quality of his workmanship. The tone is rich and full, with warm highs and deep lows.

2004 Collings OM1 Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Today we’re looking at a near perfect 2004 Collings OM1 Guitar. The Orchestra Model, based on the OOO body style, was originally built by Martin for Perry Bechtel to accomodate the first 14-fret necks. The object was to help sell guitars to plectrum banjo players, who were used to the longer necks. This example of the OM1 has been very carefully kept and well maintained.

2013 Collings D2H-A Dreadnought Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Here is a pristine 2013 Collings D2H-A Dreadnought. The -A designation means that this is a D2H – Dreadnought body size with 2 level decoration and Herringbone binding – with an Adirondack spruce top.

As with all Collings instruments, the build quality is stunningly good and the tone is even better. Collings dreadnoughts produce all the volume, presence, bottom end and mids you’d expect and have full sparkling highs.

1974 Black Fender Telecaster Custom (consignment) SOLD

I have to say that this instrument caught my eye very quickly – long ago, I spent years slaving over one of these on small stages. This 1974 Black Fender Telecaster Custom really brought back some memories, and my ears are still ringing!

Ernie Ball Music Man John Petrucci Red Pearl Burst (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

The Ernie Ball Music Man John Petrucci Red Pearl Burst guitar is a versatile rock guitar with great looks and plays like butter!

2011 Godin Montreal Mahogany Two Voice Guitar (consignment) SOLD

This 2011 Godin Montreal Mahogany Two Voice Guitar is an extremely versatile instrument and is in great condition. The Montreal Mahogany uses a chambered, bolt-on design. The body is built from a slab of mahogany; the top is sliced off, the blank is routed out for the chambers, the top gets the pickup and F-holes, is glued back on and bound. The strings mount through the back, and the result is a full, rich tone with lots of sustain.

2008 Alhambra Model 10p Cedar Top Classical Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely 2008 Alhambra Model 10p Cedar Top Classical Guitar. Alhambra guitars are built in Muro de Alcoy, in the Alicante region of Spain.
The Alhambra Model 10p is built with either spruce or cedar tops; this example from 2008 uses the Wester Red Cedar top.

Gary Benson Memorial 1939 – 2014

Gary Benson Memorial 1939 – 2014 Gary Benson was one of Canada’s premiere jazz guitarists, in a career covering three decades. A regular backup guitarist for the best vocalists, Gary also worked in bands at the Stratford and Shaw festivals.

1899 Lyon – Healy Mystic Banjo (consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely 1899 Lyon and Healy Mystic Banjo, in fully playable condition. This instrument features a 30-hook pot, a mahogany neck with carved heel and ebony fingerboard, and lots of mother of pearl inlay. The Lyon and Healy firm grew out of an effort by Oliver Ditson – beginning in 1864 – to expand his wholesale musical instrument business into the US Midwest, with a facility in Chicago.

1932 Martin OM-28 Sunburst (consignment)

This is a rare 1932 Martin OM-18 Sunburst. During 1932, the C. F. Martin guitar company produced 3,000 instruments in total. The OM-18 features the Orchestra Model body, with a tighter waist and slightly narrower bouts than the Dreadnought design. It’s also sometimes known as the 000 size.

SOLD!!! Stelling Red Fox Banjo

The beautiful Stelling Red Fox banjo is a new model, another superb example of Geoff Stelling’s craftsmanship. Inspired by master banjoist Bill Emerson, the Red Fox features Stelling’s unique bronze ‘Wedge Fit’ tone ring fitted to a Tony Pass ‘Lost Timbre’ block rim. The Red Fox inlay on the headstock and abalone maple leaf inlay on the fingerboard help make this fine instrument really quite fetching.

2010 FireGlo Rickenbacker 4003 Bass (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a lovely, near mint 2010 FireGlo Rickenbacker 4003 Bass. The 4003 Bass is the successor to the 4001, which it finally fully replaced in 1986.

Visually, the differences between the 4001 and 4003 are subtle. However, the 4003 sports a different truss rod system with adjusters at either end of the neck, and updated wiring.

1989 Black Fender DAquisto Elite Archtop (consignment) SOLD

As the last of the legendary John D’Angelico’s apprentices, James ‘Jimmy’ D’Aquisto produced some of the best, most sought after – and most expensive – archtop guitars ever made. In a 1994 agreement with Fender, Fender built D’Aquisto Elite archtops at their Terada plant in Japan. These guitars were re-issued between 1989 and 1994. This 1989 Black Fender DAquisto Elite Archtop is in pristine condition, and the black finish is quite rare.

1990 Black Fender D’Aquisto Elite Archtop (consignment)

As the last of the legendary John D’Angelico’s apprentices, James ‘Jimmy’ D’Aquisto produced some of the best, most sought after – and most expensive – archtop guitars ever made. In a 1994 agreement with Fender, Fender built D’Aquisto Elite archtops at their Terada plant in Japan. These guitars were re-issued between 1989 and 1994. This 1990 Black Fender DAquisto Elite Archtop is in pristine condition, and the black finish is quite rare.

1989 Fender DAquisto Elite Archtop (consignment) SOLD

This 1989 Fender DAquisto Elite Archtop sports a natural finish,which really shows off the flame maple laminate used on the back and sides. It’s in excellent condition with very minor wear. They feature maple laminate back and sides, solid spruce tops, a maple neck with ebony fingerboard and ebony fittings; and one humbucking pickup at the neck, with the metal parts gold plated.

AER Acousticube 3 Amp SOLD

The AER Acousticube 3 Amplifier is widely considered THE reference standard for acoustic amplification. Built in Germany, AER amps are used on stages and studios by top level performers worldwide. The sonic quality is outstanding, and the amp offers 32-bit digital effects with 100 presets.

2000 Fender 56 NOS Stratocaster SOLD

Here’s a nearly perfect, built in 2000 Fender 56 NOS Stratocaster. The NOS stands for New Old Stock and this looks like it’s never been out of the case, and the case stored in a time capsule! All of the original case candy and Custom Shop certificates are included. This is about as close to mint as you can get without actually running the presses.

2006 Tobias Growler 5 String Bass (Consignment) No Longer Available

This 2006 Tobias Growler 5 String Bass is in excellent condition. The swamp ash body provides good tone with only a moderate weight, and the body design balances well.

2013 Fano Alt de Facto EB6 Gold Top SOLD

Here’s a medium-level relic 2013 Fano Alt de Facto EB6 Gold Top. It’s in close to new condition, though with a relic that means something entirely different than shiny! This instrument has unique lines, is extremely well built. It’s got a great clear, crisp tone with lots of definition. It’s very resonant and just rings right out. And it looks like it’s 50 years old!

Guitar Clinic with Mike Francis and Neal Davis at The Twelfth Fret

If you’ve been in Canada in the last 30 years, you’ve heard Mike Francis play. He’s been in uncountable sessions and stages for many musicians, movies, TV and radio shows, and commercials. Here’s a great opportunity to find out how a top session player approaches the guitar, recording, performing, and the business.

1981 Wine Red Gibson Les Paul Custom NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The Gibson Les Paul Custom is an iconic guitar. It’s been used in pretty much every genre, from jazz, to pop, from country to metal, from punk to fusion and points between. This 1981 Wine Red Gibson Les Paul Custom is in good condition. It’s definitely seen some playing over the years, and that’s a good thing.

Gibson Brad Paisley Model J-45 (SOLD)

Gibson Brad Paisley Model J-45

1953 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top (consignment) SOLD

This 1953 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top has been converted, as many were, to a what is now standard – a bridge and stop tailpiece configuration. Aside from that, it’s been refretted for playability, and the output jack plate has been replaced, but is otherwise in original condition. The original trapeze tailpiece is included in the original 4-latch case.

1977 Martin M-38 SOLD

This 1977 Martin M-38 is from the second year of production. It’s in good shape with a few pick marks on the top upper treble bout, but otherwise no major dings or dents. It plays well and really sounds good.

Martin Custom Shop D-18 Sunburst

This Martin Custom Shop D-18 Sunburst is an outstanding instrument. Without being played in at all, it’s bright, full, crisp and clear with brilliant ringing trebles and rich bass and midrange. What a sound – and it’s just going to get better.

SOLD 1966 Martin D-21 (Consignment)

This 1966 Martin D-21 was built just before Martin stopped using Brazilian rosewood in response to Brazil’s restrictions on the export of Brazilian Rosewood in lumber form. This, then, is one of the last Brazilian D-21s.

This example of the D-21 line is in good physical shape and good playing condition, and sonds quite good.

Refinished 1959 Fender Precision Bass (consignment) SOLD

This refinished 1959 Fender Precision Bass is in great playing and structural condition. It plays really well and has great punch and tone – even with the mutes installed and active!

1969 Robert Ruck classical guitar (consignment) SOLD

We seldom see things like this 1969 Robert Ruck classical guitar; this is partly because Robert Ruck doesn’t build much anymore, and his guitars are so well regarded that they seldom change hands.

❌SOLD❌ Larrivee L-05 1993

Here is a beautiful Larrivee L-05 with an aftermarket side port modification!

Gibson Guitars SGJ 2014 120th Anniversary model

I had a lot of fun with this Gibson Guitars SGJ 2014 120th Anniversary model. Took it off the wall, plugged it straight into one of my current favourite amps – a Vox AC15 – and it sounded great.

1994 Deering Calico Banjo SOLD

Here is a 1994 Deering Calico banjo in excellent condition. The Calico is a professional grade instrument known for its crisp tone, great highs and distinctive bass response. It’s designed to provide great tone and excellent projection.

2011 Martin 0015M Steel String Acoustic Guitar SOLD

Here’s a near-perfect 2011 Martin 00-15M steel string acoustic guitar. The 00 body style is one of the earliest Martin designs,
dating to 1877 with a 12-fret neck and 1934 with the 14 fret neck.

1965 Hofner 500 1 Beatle Bass (consignment) SOLD

Today we’re looking at a very nice 1965 Hofner 500 1 Beatle Bass. Originally introduced as the Hofner Violin Bass, this model gained an unshakeable association with Paul McCartney and the Beatles.

Cadillac Green 2013 Gretsch G6196T Country Club SOLD

This is just great – a near-perfect, one year old Cadillac Green 2013 Gretsch G6196T Country Club. The Gretsch G6196T Country Club can look a lot like the Gretsch White Falcon, and that’s because it shares body and neck dimensions. However, the Country Club has a solid spruce top instead of laminated maple and more — restrained decoration.

1964 Gibson Trini Lopez Custom (consignment) SOLD

1964 Gibson Trini Lopez Custom

G.W. Barry M Style 1990 (Consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

This G.W. Barry M Style flat top from 1990 has a lovely well balanced tone with plenty of rich low end and silky smooth treble frequencies!

Olympic White 1970 Fender Stratocaster (consignment) SOLD

Here we have an Olympic White 1970 Fender Stratocaster in almost completely original condition. It’s been played a lot over the years, so the strings have been changed but aside from that, all the parts look stock. It has not been refretted, so predictably there is a significant amount of fretwear.

Larrivee LV-03 Vancouver Edition SOLD

Own part of Canadian guitar history with the Larrivee LV-03 Vancouver Edition!

1959 Gibson J45 (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Here’s another example of a real workhorse guitar – the 1959 Gibson J45. Introduced in 1942, the J-45 has been in production ever since and is one of Gibson’s most successful designs.

2008 Eastman MDC805 Mandocello SOLD

This is a spectacular instrument – a 2008 Eastman MDC805 Mandocello in near-perfect condition.

Project Instruments – SOLD

From time to time, I am forced to “house clean” when I run short on storage space. Since I can’t resist buying any vintage instruments things eventually reach the breaking point where I have to ‘thin the herd’.

These ‘project instruments’ are put on a shelf with the best of intentions…but many cups of espresso later I come to the realization that I would rather be out on my motorcycle and many of these projects will simply never be looked at.

2011 Gibson Hummingbird True Vintage (consignment) SOLD

Here’s an almost perfect 2011 Gibson Hummingbird True Vintage. Gibson introduced the Hummingbird in 1960 and it was their first square-shouldered dreadnought body guitar; to this point, Gibson was known for slope-shouldered dreadnoughts like the J-45.

1977 Gibson Les Paul Custom Cherry Burst (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILBLE

Here’s a cool 1977 Gibson Les Paul Custom Cherry Burst. The Les Paul Custom was introduced in 1954, as a dressed-up version of the ‘new’ Les Paul model (introduced in 1952). Originally, it featured a black finish (with a mahogany top rather than maple) and with very low frets.

2013 National M1 Tricone Cutaway SOLD

Here’s a pristine and unusual instrument – a 2013 National M1 Tricone Cutaway. This cutawy version of the M1 doesn’t even appear on the National site! This lightly-used fine example is in nearly new condition, and appears to have been hardly played at all.

2010 Collings D-41G SOLD

Based on the Collings D3 model, this D41G is in very good condition and features a German Spruce top (this is the G in the model number), Indian Rosewood back and sides and abalone trim on the top.

Collings guitars are exceptionally well built and great sounding and this guitar has a wonderfully full, rich tone with undeniable presence.

1976 Guild Capri CE100D Blonde Archtop (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a lovely 1976 Guild Capri CE-100D Blonde Archtop. Guild introduced the CE-100 in 1956 and it was built till 1983. A new version is now available from Guild.

This guitar is in great shape and is very comfortable to play.

1931 Martin 0028 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a rare treat – a 1931 Martin 0028. Adding to the value and historical interest of this instrument is a set of photos of the original owner playing it while in the Canadian Forces in the European Theater during World War 2!

1946 Martin D18 (consignment) SOLD

The D-18 is known for a brilliant tone with lots of attack and great separation between notes, which makes it very suitable for styles as diverse as bluegrass and solo fingerstyle

2012 Taylor T5X Thinline Electric SOLD

2012 Taylor T5X Thinline Electric

2000 Guild JF30 NO LONGER AVAILABLE

One of Guild’s best values in jumbo acoustics, this 2000 Guild JF30 is in good condition and plays very well. It’s had a pickup added so it’s ready to go!

Mike Francis with Neal Davis: a Clinic at the Twelfth Fret

CLINIC POSTPONED – NEW DATE: MONDAY MARCH 3RD     Clinic: Mike Francis with Neal Davis Where: The Twelfth Fret Guitar Shop, 2132 Danforth Ave, Toronto ON. When: Monday January 20th MARCH 3rd , 6pm – 8:30pm Price: $40 per person (limited space available)   Mike Francis has been the “go to guy” in the Toronto recording scene for over 30 years. His guitar playing can be heard daily on numerous TV & radio commercials, TV shows, feature films and the recordings of many

2001 Jose Ramirez Elite 1a Traditional (consignment) SOLD

Today we have a 2001 Jose Ramirez Elite 1a Traditional. The 1a Traditional model is the top of the range for Ramirez guitars, and the Elite version uses the highest quality materials available.

Danelectro DC-59 1960 (Consignment) SOLD

This copper finish Danelectro DC-59 is a cool retro guitar that will have vintage fans drooling with envy!

Music Man Axis Super Sport 25th Anniversary 2009 (Used) Sold

Feast your eyes and ears on the beautiful Music Man Axis Super Sport 25th Anniversary model selling for $1475.00

Music Man Axis Sport MM90 (Consignment) SOLD

This purple Music Man Axis Sport MM90 has a super smooth playing neck and a creamy tone great for blues and rock!

Northfield NF F5S Mandolin (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

We recently received a Northfield NF F5S Mandolin! We’ve had a very few Northfields basically as demo instruments, and they were very well received.

Gretsch Falcon G6139T CBDC *No Longer Available*

Brand new and very cool! This is the new Gretsch Falcon G6139T CBDC.

At 16 inches across, it’s one inch smaller than the Double Cut, and it has what Chet always wanted – a spruce center block to reduce feedback and increase sustain and note to note separation.

2008 Tom Anderson Hollow T Classic SOLD

2008 Tom Anderson Hollow T Classic

David Wren 2012 Concert ‘Sinker’ Redwood and Macassar (used) SOLD

Here is a beautiful David Wren Concert with Sinker Redwood and Macassar Ebony!

1994 Heritage H150 Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

This 1994 Heritage H150 Sunburst is based on the classic Les Paul design, but with a number of subtle changes. The body shape is slightly different and the headstock is narrower and tapered – this is a good thing as it decreases the angle the strings take out of the nut.

Discontinued – Boucher Guitars Alancia Goose OMH SOLD

Boucher guitars are fairly new for us, but they bring a fully developed and realized instrument line.
Today we have a Boucher Guitars Alancia Goose OMH, or Orchestra Model Hybrid. This model features cocobolo back and sides, this specific example a wood set with lovely sapwood providing visual effects.

Midnight Blue 2009 Rickenbacker 4001c64s (consignment) SOLD

This Midnight Blue 2009 Rickenbacker 4001c64s is one of only four in this particular colour – there are two more in satin. It’s in excellent condition.

1973 Rickenbacker 4001 Bass (consignment) SOLD

While the Fender Precision Bass holds the record for the most recordings, the Rickenbacker 4001 bass provides a bright punchy sound that comes right to the front of the mix. It’s hard to miss it on a recording or stage.

This 1973 Rickenbacker 4001 Bass is in good shape and great playing condition.

2002 Dave Nichols 00 Style Acoustic Guitar (No longer available)

Dave Nichols has spent decades doing custom inlay work, including a lot for Martin. His work shows a high degree of familiarity with pearl inlay – it looks like it was easy for the builder to do, a sure sign that it isn’t.

This 2002 Dave Nichols 00 Style acoustic guitar is in good playing condition and looks fantastic.

Emoticon – City at Night [New EP]

The debut EP from Emoticon is now available at the Twelfth Fret. City at Night is the debut EP from the Twelfth Fret’s own Nevin Douglas. Instrumental electronic music with a retro / new wave / synth pop sound. Minimal, catchy, and fun. We have CDs available for $11.95. To place an order contact us here.

❌SOLD❌ Gretsch 6124 Single Anniversary, 1960

This 1960 Gretsch 6124 Single Anniversary is in good playing and visual condition, with most original hardware and case. Intended as a lower cost alternative to the 6120, the Anniversary originally had a pair of Filter ‘Tron pickups and an ebony fingerboard,

1974 Rickenbacker 330 Jetglo (consignment) SOLD

This 1974 Rickenbacker 330 Jetglo is in very good condition – though it has been played and has some fretwear, it has very few marks or wear otherwise.

2004 Gitane D500 Professional Gypsy Jazz Guitar (consignment) SOLD

The Saga company has been producing an excellent version of the Selmer concept under the ‘Gitane’ name for some time. This fine 2004 Gitane D-500 Professional Gypsy Jazz Guitar is a wonderful example of the Grand Bouche design, is in great shape and is really entertaining to play.

1939 Kalamazoo KHG 14 (consignment) SOLD

The 1939 Kalamazoo KHG 14 is very much like the Gibson L-00, but without the truss rod. It’s had its bridsge replaced, cracks have been repaired, and has been converted from Hawaiian setup to ‘standard’ fingerstyle.

1965 Gibson RB-100 Banjo SOLD

Here’s a really great condition 1965 Gibson RB-100 Banjo, delivering a warm, woody tone, hard attack with quick note decay

1920 Windsor Artiste Model 4 Zither Banjo (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Here is a wonderful 1920 Windsor Artiste Model 4 Zither Banjo. Built in Birmingham, England, this instrument is in perfect playing condition.

SOLD!! 2012 Bishline Clermont Banjo (consignment)

This 2012 Bishline Clermont Banjo is in excellent condition – it would be hard for it to be cleaner – and is just a beautiful instrument. Loud, sweet yet clear and bright. The heavy figuring of the neck and resonator maple combines with the shaded, tinted finish for a spectactular effect.

2008 Heritage H 535 Antique Natural Thinline (consignment) SOLD

Specializing in high-quality examples of proven designs, Heritage demonstrates a commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail. This 2008 Heritage H 535 Antique Natural Thinline is in excellent condition.

Vox AC 30 Head 1963 (Consignment) SOLD

Classic British chime and crunch await with this Vox AC 30 head from 1963!

Larrivee Custom Shop LS-04 Bloodwood SOLD

The Larrivee Custom Shop LS-04 Bloodwood is a quietly spectacular guitar. Not that it has a low volume – it doesn’t – but while it’s not exceptionally ornate, it’s got a fabulous sound and tunes just fall out of it.

Fryette Memphis 30 Combo 2011 (Consignment) No Longer Available

The Fryette Memphis 30 Combo is a versatile combo amp in all original condition.

1981 Ramirez 1a Flamenco Guitar NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The Ramirez 1a is the top of the range for concert instruments, in classical or Flamenco styles. Built only by a few of the most skilled and experienced luthiers in the small Ramirez shop, the 1a uses the finest available materials.

1997 Lowden O25C Steel String (consignment) SOLD

Lowden guitars have been favoured by both fingerstyle and plectrum players since they became available. The O, or Original model, is a fairly large jumbo design, which produces a suprisingly even, rich sound with lots of articulation and projection.

This 1997 Lowden O25C steel string was built in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland.

65 Amps Memphis (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

The 65 Amps Memphis, formerly know as the Monterey has the classic 6V6 format and can go from warm American tones to modern boutique distortion setting at the flick of a switch!

Fender American Special Mustang NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Introducing the Fender American Special Mustang! The Fender Mustang was introduced in 1964 as a step up from the late-1950’s MusicMaster and Duo-Sonic ‘student’ guitars. However, certain aspects of this design attracted a number of professional players who at the time weren’t comfortable with other guitars available at the time. They seemed to like the 24-inch scale and the compact, lightweight body.

Fender American Special Jazzmaster

Fender’s just introduced a new variation on the Jazzmaster – the Fender American Special Jazzmaster!

1950 Gibson Super 300 (consignment) SOLD

I’ve never actually seen one of these before – but, there were only about 200 produced, between 1948 and 1955. This is a 1950 Gibson Super 300. The Super 300 is very similar to its much better known older brother, the Super 400. The key difference is the modesty of the 300’s decoration – at least compared to the Super 400.

1990 Gibson Chet Atkins CE Solidbody Classical (consignment) No Longer Available

We don’t see these very often, but here’s a fine example of a very influential guitar – a 1990 Gibson Chet Atkins CE Solidbody Classical. The late, great and greatly lamented Chet Atkins was responsible for not only great music, but a number of musical innovations. Given his many performances over decades, under a very wide range of conditions, it’s not surprising that he often sought out ways to control or prevent feedback at stage volumes.

2006 Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II NO LONGER AVAILABLE

This 2006 Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II is in great shape. The compact body is comfortable yet full-sounding, and the hardware is of good quality. It’s had so little use that the foam shipping strip is still under the bridge!

2008 Taylor GS Custom Fall LTD SOLD

Taylor Guitars run a seasonal ‘Limited Edition’ program during which they offer customized versions of their more popular guitars, but with highly figured wood sets and less-common material combinations. This means that a number of unique and often breathtaking versions of otherwise standard guitars become available, and it’s been quite a popular offering.

Bruce Dowd Fretless Electric Gourd Banjo (consignment) SOLD

The banjo has an extremely long and varied history – aside from the drum and the human voice, it’s one of the oldest instruments. Over millennia the banjo has taken many forms but they all have common elements.

1919 Gibson F2 Mandolin SOLD

Orville Gibson basically invented the modern mandolin around 1895, combining the basic stringing and tuning layout with violin-type construction technology. To this point, the mandolin was usually a bowl-backed instrument, though some related flat-backed instruments such as the cittern had existed for some centuries.

1989 David Wren Cutaway Acoustic (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

This 1989 David Wren Cutaway Acoustic is in great visual and playing condition, with a lovely peacock inlay on the headstock.

1963 Epiphone FT-79 Texan SOLD

Epiphone flat-tops date back to the 1940’s, and the FT-79 Texan first appeared in 1942. The last of the original (non-reissue) production was in 1970, when Gibson ownership changed hands to Norlin.

1969 Harmony H54-1 Rocket SOLD

The Harmony company made a huge number of instruments between 1945 and 1978, under their own name and under contract to other distributors and retailers. At one time, if you went anywhere in North America, somebody had a Harmony-produced instrument.

1990 David Wren Concert Cutaway Left Handed SOLD

1990 David Wren Concert Cutaway Left Handed

2013 Deering Vega Little Wonder Banjo SOLD

The Vega Little Wonder is intended to be a quality instrument at a reasonable price – so it uses quality woods (maple and ebony) and good hardware but doesn’t have a lot of decoration.

Almansa 447 Cypress Flamenco Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Spain has a long and rich history, and music is no small part of it. Flamenco comes to us from the Andalusian region, consisting of simultaneous song, dance and guitar. It carries many influences of Spain’s folk history – Gypsy, Moorish, Jewish and Andalusian.

(Discontinued) Martin Custom Shop D18-12 Ditson, 2011

This 2011 Martin Custom Shop D18-12 Ditson is in perfect, brand new condition with full warranty – the legendary Martin ‘lifetime’ warranty is available to the original purchaser only. Martin built a total of 75 of these instruments, and based them on a 1929 Ditson model 111 that resides in the Martin Museum.

Refinished 1966 Fender Telecaster (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Leo Fender’s Telecaster has been an enduring aspect of popular music for over sixty years. In that time, many Telecasters have been built and many have been modified – part of the genius of the design is its adaptability and customizability.

No Longer Available 2009 Galloup Hybrid Acoustic (consignment)

This 2009 Galloup Hybrid acoustic is a stunning instrument featuring top quality woods, very clean construction and great tone. It also uses the patented Feiten tuning system, a combination of nut compensation, saddle placement, and tuning offsets designed to bring as many notes into tune with each other as possible.

Fender Deluxe Reverb 80’s (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a Fender Deluxe Reverb from the 80’s in great overall condition!

Fender Twin Reverb 1976 (Consignment) SOLD

This silver panel Fender Twin Reverb from 1976 is in excellent overall shape and pumps out 80 watts of tone through 2 12″ Oxford speakers!

Larrivee L-10 Jester SOLD

Today we are featuring a beautiful Larrivee L-10 with a Jester headstock inlay.

1967 Gibson Mastertone TB-250 Tenor Banjo (consignment)

This fine example of a 1967 Gibson Mastertone TB-250 Tenor Banjo is in great condition, with no significant wear — especially given its age.

1979 Oskar Graf Classical (consignment) SOLD

Here we have another fine instrument from the Clarendon, Ontario shop of Oskar Graf.

This 1979 Oskar Graf classical has all the standard features – Indian rosewood and figured spruce top with 7-bar fan bracing, mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard.

G.W. Barry 000 Plus in Brazilian Rosewood and Adirondack Spruce SOLD

Here is the new G.W. Barry 000 Plus in Brazilian rosewood and Adirondack spruce!

Tungsten Crema Wheat Amp (Consignment) No Longer Available

This Tungsten amp is the size of a Fender Pro and features a Mather cabinet, a Scumback M75 12″ speaker and cool looking tweed tolex.

1969 Fender Telecaster with Bigsby (consignment) SOLD

The Telecaster is not only the first succesful (wildly!) solidbody electric guitar, but it’s also been in uninterrupted production the longest.

There have been some variations over the years, and this 1969 Fender Telecaster with Bigsby is a prime example. The Bigsby unit itself is the oldest successful vibrato unit made, and as we can see here it’s been available in a branded form to manufacturers. This unit has the ‘F’ logo on the body casting. To go with this, the body does not have the string ferrules on the back; there is a custom pickup plate and a Jazzmaster-style bridge is used. This one even has the original bridge cover!

❌SOLD❌ Les Paul Deluxe Sunburst, 1978

The Les Paul is one of the classic workhorses of modern popular music. Produced since 1952 in a number of variations, it appears on all kinds of stages and recordings.

Mesa Boogie Mark 1 mid 70’s (Consignment) SOLD

The Mesa Boogie Mark 1 was one of the first amps to provide many features now standard on most modern amps!

Komet Constellation 30 (Consignment) SOLD

The Komet Constellation 30 amp is a beautiful wood panelled 30 watt amp powered by 4 EL84 tubes.

Traynor YCV 50 2008 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a Traynor YCV 50 watt tube amp for an awesome price!

2013 DK Guitars Forte SOLD

Dmitri Kulakov builds very innovative instruments in his shop in Ottawa, Ontario. We’ve seen his ‘Picasso’ model previously, and here is his ‘Forte’ model.

1953 Gibson J-50 (consignment) No Longer Available

This 1953 Gibson J-50 demonstrates why Gibson flat-tops are so desirable. It has obviously been used as the makers intended, and has had the service that any 60-year old might need. And the sound is incredible! Full, bright, LOUD, crisp and even, this guitar has exceptional tone and would be a very positive addition to any trac

2007 Gibson CJ-165 (consignment) No Longer Available

Gibson’s Jumbo guitars – the J-200, J-185 – have been popular since the J-200 was introduced in the 1938. There have been many variations, and between 2006 and 2008 the CJ-165 was built at the Gibson plant in Bozeman, Montana, under the watchful supervision of Ren Ferguson.

Fender Twin 1961 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a Fender Twin 1961 with tons of tone and volume!

Hughes and Kettner Statesman 60 2008 (Consignment) SOLD

This Hughes and Kettner Statesman 60 watt combo amp is in excellent condition and offers a great value for the price!

1995 Lowden O10 Custom SOLD

George Lowden has been building guitars since the early 1970’s in Northern Ireland. He’s known for producing quality instruments with innovative body and bracing designs.

2010 Wren Concert (consignment) No Longer Available

David Wren has been one of Canada’s premiere builders for decades, along with stints doing repairs at The Millwheel in downtown Toronto and being part owner of The Twelfth Fret.

This 2010 Wren Concert is in excellent condition and is a fine example of David’s work.

Fender Princeton 1959 (Consignment) SOLD

This tweed Fender Princeton from 1959 is a sweet sounding 12 watt amp with the original 8″ speaker. This is a killer amp for recording or small gigs!

Fender Custom Vibrolux Reverb 2009 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a Fender Custom Vibrolux Reverb from 2009 which is in very clean shape.

Magnatone Estey M15 1965 (Consignment) SOLD

This mid 60’s Magnatone Estey M15 stereo amp is in good overall condition and features reverb and great vibrato effects!

Ramirez SPR Classical Guitar Spruce and Cedar

The Ramirez SPR classical guitar is the newest version of the hand made, maestro-built “SP” model. The model designation SP stands for Semi-Professional model and we find it to be effectively very much in the league of the Professional 1a models we carry, but at roughly half the price.

2001 Martin D-35 SOLD

Rarely do we see a 12 year old Martin that has been so well cared for.

This 2001 Martin D-35 was custom ordered through the Twelfth Fret for a client who wanted the neck contour that he grew up playing as a kid; the soft V profile of the late 1960s.

2006 Gretsch G6199 Billy-Bo Jupiter Thunderbird (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The original Jupiter Thunderbird was designed by and built for Bo Diddley in 1959, by a Gretch employee using Gretsch necks and hardware. Bo’s concern was that the larger electric he was using – an L-5! – was so big that it hindered his energetic performance.

G.W. Barry Modified Concert with Royal Macassar Ebony SOLD

The G.W. Barry Modified Concert with Royal Macassar Ebony is the latest stunning offering from G.W. Barry.

SOLD!! 1995 Gibson Les Paul Standard (consignment)

The Gibson Les Paul is one of the workhorses of the guitar universe. It fits in any musical context that accepts amplified instruments, so you can see or hear a Les Paul on a huge variety of of stages or recordings.

DG Funk Farm Amplifier

DG Funk Farm Amplifier

2011 Deering Sierra 17-Fret Tenor Banjo SOLD

The banjo has been enjoying a remarkable renaissance. Once a presence on nearly every stage, the banjo was eclipsed by the amplified guitar for many decades. Now, however, more and more people are discovering how great a banjo can sound, and how good and varied banjo music really is.

2010 Gibson Les Paul 60s Tribute Gold Top (consignment) SOLD

The Les Paul was one of the very first successful and widely accepted solidbody electric guitars – Leo Fender’s Telecaster being the other.

Produced for over 60 years with a number of variations, the Les Paul has been used in pretty much every style of music that allows for amplified instruments.

1968 Gibson ES-345 TDC Stereo (consignment) SOLD

The ES-345 model with stereo and varitone was next to top of the line for Gibson thinlines – the next step was the ES-355, with the same general features but an ebony fingerboard, block position markers, more binding, and often a Bigsby or Maestro Vibrola.

1967 Hagstrom H8 8-String Bass NO LONGER AVAILABLE

This 1967 Hagstrom H8 8-String Bass is a good example of what the company was producing at the time. The angular and somewhat asymmetrical shape are clearly influenced by American instruments, including the Gibson SG and Fender Stratocaster

William Laskin Art Deco Steel String Video

Here is the William Laskin Art Deco Steel String guitar played by David Martin, one of the teachers at The Twelfth Fret School of Music.

1960 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster (consignment) SOLD

Here’s the real deal – a 1960 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster. The Stratocaster was introduced in 1954, and late in 1959 (for the 1960 model year) the first major revision appeared: the introduction of the rosewood fingerboard, multi-layer pickguards, and a 3-tone sunburst.

2007 Larrivee OM-3 R SH Twelfth Fret Custom (consignment) SOLD

Larrivee is one of the oldest and largest established guitar builders in Canada, and has long had a close relationship with The Twelfth Fret and we have regularly commissioned runs of custom guitars.

2012 Bourgeois OM Signature (consignment) SOLD

Dana Bourgeois builds some of the finest acoustic guitars available today. As is the case for many of a certain age, his interest in guitars was sparked by specific 1964 episodes of the Ed Sullivan show – the ones that introduced The Beatles to the United States.

2008 Larrivee RS4 Amber (consignment) SOLD

Jean Larrivee is very well known for producing not only many top-quality acoustic instruments, but also for training many top-quality luthiers. Grit Laskin, Dave Wren, Gord Berry, Serge de Jonge – all worked in the Larrivee shops.

Tony Bruno Underground 30 Amp With Cabinet (consignment) SOLD

Bruno amps were custom built and individually voiced for the customer. Tony Bruno no longer builds, due to health issues; a very few ‘new’ amps are available from the major Bruno distributors, but generally all available Bruno amps are pre-owned. They are not common.

2006 Peavey HP Special (consignment) SOLD

Enter the Peavey HP Special (HP standing for Hartley Peavey). It’s based on the Wolfgang but with options like a lockable floating trem and somewhat different body and head shapes. They were built in the same plant, on the same machinery, and at first by the same people.

1986 Fender 1957 Reissue Stratocaster (consignment) SOLD

This 1986 Fender 1957 Reissue Stratocaster is an exceptionally clean example of the 1980’s ‘V’. series. It’s a reproduction of the 1957 model line, with deeper contours, a distinctive two-tone sunburst and a somewhat lighter body;

1960 Gibson ES-330T Thinline Archtop Guitar (consignment) SOLD

This 1960 Gibson ES-330T Thinline Archtop Guitar is in excellent all-original condition, with no real marks or wear. As t the ‘T’ model, it’s unusual in having one pickup – mounted in the center position rather than in the neck or bridge positions.

1890s August Pollmann Royal Mandoline Banjo (consignment) SOLD

Towards the end of the 19th century and at the start of the 20th, mandolins became very popular in North America, likely due to European immigrants bringing their musical styles with them.

Harrison NJ-16 Neo Jazz

Today we are featuring a stunning Harrison NJ-16 Neo Jazz!

1965 Hagstrom 1 Bass and Guitar Set (consignment) SOLD

Hagstrom had a long history of mass producing instruments in Europe under a number of brand names, but never gained mass acceptance in North America.

In 1962, Hagstrom launched a series of guitars with coloured hard plastic (lucite) tops and vinyl covered backs.

2011 Collings OM-1 (consignment) SOLD

Martin introduced the OM or “Orchestra Model” designation in the late 1920s – the intention was that these guitars would replace banjos in jazz orchestras. These instruments generally have necks that join the body at the twelfth fret, and have a smaller body with a tighter waist than Dreadnought size models.

2008 Gibson 1960 Les Paul Special Double Cut VOS (consignment) SOLD

Gibson introduced the Les Paul Special in 1955 as a single cutaway, and in late 1958 launched the double-cut version. This was an immediate success and was produced in this form until 1963, when the new body shape we know as the SG took over. The Doublecut was re-produced in 2001, and in 2008 became a regular order item.

1939 Epiphone Masterbilt Broadway Archtop Guitar (consignment) SOLD

In the time between the World Wars, giant archtops ruled the Earth’s stages and bandstands, and in that period, Epiphone was one of the most dominant names. During the 1930’s, Epiphone used the ‘Masterbilt’ label to denote higher-end instruments.

SOLD!! 1970 Gibson Melody Maker 12-String

Here’s a rare piece – a 1970 Gibson Melody Maker 12-String! Melody Makers were Gibson’s entry level instruments and lots were made, but the 12-string was not at all common.

2007 Fender Deluxe Ash Telecaster SOLD

When I’m trying out electric guitars, one of the first things I pay attention to is the acoustic sound, because it’s the basis of pretty much everything else tonal.

This 2007 Fender Deluxe Ash Telecaster has it all. It’s clear and crisp with clear articulation between notes on chords, all the high end sparkle you’d expect from a Telecaster, and a full sound all the way down to the lowest tones.

2005 Fender Eric Johnson Sunburst Stratocaster (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a surprisingly nice Strat! Fender’s Eric Johnson Stratocaster model is pattered after a 1957 example, with light weight, comfortable contours, little tweaks to aid tuning stability, and a great sound.

2004 Natural Rickenbacker 360 Guitar (consignment) SOLD

This is a 2004 Natural Rickenbacker 360 Guitar in great condition,

1966 Gibson ES-330 TD Sunburst (consignment) No Longer Available

This 1966 Gibson ES-330 TD Sunburst is in great condition, visually and in terms of playability. It has been refretted professionally, so it’s ready to be played for many years to come. This is one of the 16-fret versions; later revisions of the instrument had the neck joining the body at the 19th fret, which changed the tone and perhaps weakened the neck joint.

Taylor GS8 2009 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a Taylor GS8 from 2009 in excellent overall shape!

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2002 Santa Cruz Model D 12-Fret Dreadnought (consignment) No Longer Available

The Model D 12-Fret was originally built by Santa Cruz for Norman Blake. The 12-fret neck moves the bridge closer to the center of the vibrating surface, increasing power and responsiveness. The top, bracing and large 4.25 inch sound hole deliver presence throughout the instrument’s range.

This 2002 Santa Cruz Model D 12-Fret Dreadnought is in great playing condition. It speaks quite loudly and clearly, with lots of articulation and sparkle on the upper end, but without overwhelming bass.

Ernie Ball Music Man JP7 (used) SOLD

Here is an excellent condition Ernie Ball Music Man JP7 in candy apple red!

2007 National Style 0-14 Dueco Resophonic Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Between 1931 and 1937, National produced guitars with the ‘Duco’ frosted effect. This process involves dissolving a crystalline substance in lacquer, which re-crystallizes when the lacquer cures.

1961 Fender Jazzmaster (consignment) No Longer Available

Originally targeted at jazz guitarists, the Jazzmaster features large single-coil pickups, unique electronics, and a somewhat wider fingerboard than the Telecaster and Stratocaster. The offset body design is intended to make the instrument more comfortable when seated – standing up and moving around was more of a country or rock and roll thin

Wine Red 1991 Gibson Les Paul Special (consignment) SOLD

This wine red 1991 Gibson Les Paul Special is in great condition with only minor play wear. The P-90’s are thick and rich, and the neck profile is wide enough but not chunky.

Cherry Red 2010 Eastman El Rey One (consignment) SOLD

Eastman’s El Rey – “The King” – guitar is designed to deliver “classic jazz archtop tone in a lightweight, resonant 14 inch body”. Along the way, this design also has excellent feedback resistance at volume.

Discontinued – Boucher Studio Series Mahogany Goose Dreadnought

The Boucher Studio Series Mahogany Goose Dreadnought is a well balanced warm and woody flat top!

(Discontinued) Ernie Ball Music Man L3 rosewood Neck

The Ernie Ball Music Man L3 rosewood neck is an exceptional sounding and playing guitar!

1999 Fender Hardtail Stratocaster (consignment) No Longer Available

When Leo Fender introduced the Stratocaster in 1954, two versions were available, one with the trem bridge and one hardtail – for some reason, the year with the largest percentage of hardtail models made was 1958.

Just for Fun – A Gold Tone Banjo Uke Takes the Spotlight

Gold Tone make some of the best banjo ukes, and one of them appears in this great little video from The Gregory Brothers. They take a current pop tune and rearrange it for banjo uke, snare drum, guitar and voices.

1997 Fender Hot Rod Deville Amp (consignment) No Longer Available

The Fender Hot Rod DeVille features three switchable channels – normal, drive, and more drive. The channels share the EQ stacks. The 212 version comes with a pair of 12-inch Eminence speakers.

1990s Fender Hot Rod Deluxe Amplifier (consignment) No Longer Available

Introduced in 1996, the Hot Rod Deluxe updates the Fender Blues Deluxe amp, adding switchable gain levels to the amp’s single channel. This is a tube amp except for the rectifier and and reverb driver and recovery, which are solid state.

1966 Blackface Fender Vibrolux Reverb Amplifier (consignment) SOLD

Fender introduced the Vibrolux Reverb Amp in 1964 as part of a rework of their amplifier line, in response to the ever growing demand for volume. The Vibrolux Reverb featured 30 watts into two ten inch speakers, and was plenty loud for many applications.

2001 Fender Yngwie Malmsteen Signature Strat (consignment) SOLD

Yngvie Malmsteen exploded onto the music scene in his own band, Rising Force, in 1984. Known for extreme speed and technique, he combines neo-classical and rock values. As part of his growth, he’s used guitars with heavily scalloped fingerboards.

Turqoise 1997 Rickenbacker 360 (consignment) SOLD

Rickenbacker has a unique position in guitar history, having produced some of the very earliest true electric instruments – specifically, the ‘frying pan’ steel guitars of 1931. Rickenbacker instruments are quite distinctive visually and tonally; the chime of the Riki 12 on so many hit pop records and the bite of the Riki Bass are immediately recognisable.

2010 Gibson CS-356 Natural (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson CS-359 and its slightly less decorated relative, the CS-356, are made on the general design of the ES-335 models but are scaled down in body size (though not in scale length).

Larrivee LS-09 Flamed Maple Custom SOLD

Feast your eyes and ears on this beautiful limited edition Larrivee LS-09 Flamed Maple Custom!

2013 Harrison GB Custom Sapele Pomelle SOLD

Here’s a spectacular 2013 Harrison GB Custom Sapele Pomelle. Douglas Harrison has been building the GB Custom for some years now and while every one is different, they all share the same high build standards and top-quality materials.

Gibson L-5 CES Wes Montgomery Archtop SOLD

Wes Montgomery was and is still one of the most influential jazz guitarists ever, and relied on a Gibson L-5 CES for most of his working life.

The Gibson L-5 CES Wes Montgomery Archtop is a faithful re-creation

2006 Eastman John Pisano Archtop Electric (consignment) SOLD

Eastman has been building many of the highest quality, affordable instruments for some time now. Here is a very clean, near mint 2006 Eastman John Pisano archtop electric. One of the best values in jazz boxes under $4000!

1992 Dieter Hopf Super-Classic Guitar (consignment) SOLD

The Hopf family has been building instruments, motly violins, for the last three centuries; Dieter Hopf himself has been building guitars for over 50 years, somewhat west of Frankfurt, Germany.

2005 National Estralita Deluxe Koa Resophonic Guitar SOLD

National Resophonic’s Estralita Deluxe is the most decorated of their wood-body range. Normally built with walnut, it’s also available as a special order with highly-figured Koa mahogany veneer.

2012 Egan Custom Tenor Guitar SOLD

2012 Egan Custom Tenor Guitar

2002 Taylor 355ce 12 String Acoustic (consignment) SOLD

aylor has, with good reason, grown to be one of the largest guitar manufacturers in the United States. They produce a quality instrument that plays well, sounds great, and looks good to boot. This 2002 Taylor 355ce 12 String Acoustic is in great condition. It has been played and has sonically opened up , but has been well cared for.

1965-67 Ampeg Gemini II G-15 Amplifier No Longer Available

During the 1960’s, Ampeg was a prominent player in the guitar and bass amp market. This 1965-67 Ampeg Gemini II G-15 amplifier tops out at about 30 watts with one Jensen 15 inch speaker. This example is in good working order;

1980 Guild D-55 NT Natural Dreadnought (consignment) SOLD

The D-55 was the top of Guild’s dreadnought line, and was available with a sunburst finish in the top or, as with this D55NT example, a natural finish. Built in the Westerly, Rhode Island plant, this fine example of Guild’s production illustrates why Guild guitars gained their reputation for quality and solid construction.

1995 Sergei de Jonge 8-String Classical Guitar (consignment)

This 1995 Serge de Jonge 8-String Classical guitar from his Toronto shop is in good playing condition and shows off Sergei’s skills. The woodworking is very well done – the ebony arm and back contours are not simple to make

2009 Gretsch Chet Atkins G6121 Roundup (consignment) SOLD

This 2009 Gretsch Chet Atkins G6121 Roundup is as new; it’s never really been played at all. The aluminum Bigsby bridge adds quite a bit of brightness to the twang.

2008 Gibson CS Non-Reverse TV White Firebird (consignment) SOLD

Gibson introduced the Firebird in 1963 to compete with the offset body styles that Fender was making so popular. Following poor sales and complaints from Fender, in 1965 Gibson basically flipped the design over to make the ‘non-reverse’ models. These were produced until 1969.

Guild Tacoma CV-1 Acoustic (consignment) SOLD

This is a 2006 – 2008 Guild Tacoma CV-1 Acoustic, and it has unique features. It’s based on traditional acoustic shapes, but the neck joint uses a graphite neck block and bolt system.

2000 Gibson Earl Scruggs Standard Mastertone Banjo SOLD

Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs were two of the most recognisable names in the bluegrass pantheon, and were arguably responsible for its rise to mainstream popularity. Gibson banjos are legendary but now are very hard to find;

1975 Guild D-40 NT Dreadnought (consignment) SOLD

The D-40 has earned a solid reputation as a ‘bluegrass’ guitar – loud, clear and punchy with lots of articulation and warmth.

1962 Brownface Fender Super Amplifier SOLD

The Super was one of Fender’s earliest amplifiers, and began life as the ‘Dual Professional’ in 1947 — perhaps the first two-speaker guitar amp. From there, it was produced with various electrical and aesthetic changes until 1963,

1965 Epiphone FT85 Serenader 12-String Acoustic (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

The Epiphone name was first used on guitars in 1928 by Epaminodas Stathopoulo, but his father Anastasios Stathopoulo had been building instruments since 1873, starting in what is now Smyrna, Turkey. They moved to the United States in 1903. Epiphone focused on high quality archtops, and their instruments were very prominent;

2001 Hamer Studio (consignment) SOLD

The Hamer company was started in 1973, and was one of the very first ’boutique’ electric guitar builders, specializing in high-quality instruments based on classic and often unavailable guitars, like the Explorer and Flying V.

Fender Vibro King CSR4 Amplifier SOLD

From the Fender Custom Shop, here is a Fender CSR4 Vibro King amplifier. The date is unknown – production started in 1994, but the manual with the amp has a copyright date of 2002.

1966 Guild A50 Cordoba Archtop SOLD

The Guild company was formed in 1952 by Avram (Alfred) Dronge, a New York musician and music store owner and George Mann, a former Epiphone executive. Many of the early craftsmen were also from Epiphone,

2011 Cherryburst Gibson Les Paul 50s Tribute (consignment) SOLD

Gibson has built the Les Paul model since 1952. This 2011 Cherryburst Gibson Les Paul 50s Tribute has all the basic, early Les Paul features – maple cap on a mahogany back, mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard, and P-90s.

1994 Fender Floral Telecaster Japanese Reissue (consignment) SOLD

Here’s something unusual – a 1994 Fender Floral Telecaster Reissue, crafted in Japan. From 1982 to 1997, Fender Japan contracted with Fiju-Gen to produce a line of Fender instruments.

1999-2002 Fender Floral Telecaster Japanese Reissue (consignment) SOLD

1991-2002 Fender Floral Telecaster Japanese Reissue

2007 Gibson J-185 True Vintage (consignment) SOLD

Gibson’s True Vintage concept is to reproduce the look, feel and sound of original production instruments, using materials that are as close as possible to the original.

1969 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster (consignment) SOLD

As soon as Fender put the Stratocaster in production in 1954, it became very popular and has been in production continuously. There have been some changes and modifications along the way, but the basic Strat has always been available.

1966 Sunburst Fender Telecaster Refinish (consignment) No Longer Availalble

The original Twelfth Fret offered custom lacquer refinishing, and this 1966 Sunburst Fender Telecaster was refinished in our shop in the late 1970’s.

1967 Gibson J-160E SOLD

From the dawn of the banjo orchestra around the turn of the 20th century, every guitar company had to deal with the increasing need for volume. But with the invention of electric amplification, microphones – no matter how good they were

❌SOLD❌ Peavey EVH Wolfgang Special, 1998

The original Peavey EVH Wolfgang was a great guitar, but expensive to produce, which meant that carried a price tag that moved it out of the range of many players.

So, after moving the EVH Wolfgang endorsement from Music Man, Peavey and EVH made an effort to trim features, but not quality, and this resulted in the EVH Wolfgang Special.

1991 Peavey EVH Wolfgang Special

The original Peavey EVH Wolfgang was a great guitar, but expensive to produce, which meant that carried a price tag that moved it out of the range of many players. So, Peavey and EVH made an effort to trim features, but not quality, and this resulted in the EVH Wolfgang Special.

2004 Taylor 710 CE-L9 Short Scale Dreadnought No Longer Available

Here’s a 2004 Taylor 710 Short Scale CE-L9 Dreadnought, in extremely good condition. It has been carefully played so it has opened up some, and sounds great.

1965 Gibson Dove (consignment) SOLD

This is a 1965 Gibson Dove, with an original tune-o-matic bridge used as part of the standard pin bridge.

1980 Gurian JK Steel String (consignment) SOLD

Michael Gurian was born in Brooklyn, New York, and in 1965 opened a shop building classical instruments, expanding to steel string guitars in 1969. In 1971 he moved his shop to Hinsdale, New Hampshire, and was well on the way to becoming a prominent player in the North American guitar industry.

1984 Oskar Graf Cutaway Steel String (consignment) SOLD

Oskar Graf has been building guitars in a small town in Ontario, north of Kingston, since 1970. In that time, he’s built over 400 instruments, many used by prominent players.

2007 Top Hat Super Deluxe Club 1×12 Combo Amplifier (consignment) SOLD

Something we don’t see often – a 2007 Top Hat Super Deluxe Club 1×12 Combo Amplifier. This wonderful little amp uses a Celestion Vintage 30 12 inch speaker and takes 6L6, 6V6 or EL34 tubes for 22 or 33 wattts.

SOLD Huber Lancaster TrueTone Banjo

Today we’re looking at a new Huber Lancaster TrueTone banjo. This banjo is built to reflect the most prized pre-war 5-string banjos, which were generally built of mahogany with nickel plated parts.

Taylor 528e First Edition SOLD

Today we are featuring the Taylor 528e First Edition. This large body guitar features a mahogany top, back and sides and a special First Edition peghead and fretboard inlay.

Michael Clark Wateree 1×12 Combo Amp (consignment) No Longer Available

Michael Clark builds accurate reproductions of Marshall and Fender amplifiers, and is well respected for the very high quality of his hand-built products. The Michael Clark Wateree Combo amp is discontinued and very rare,

1967 Fender Precision Bass (consignment) No Longer Available

The Fender Bass has been the standard since it was introduced; it didn’t take long for bassists and other band members to realize the benefit of a physically smaller but sonically larger instrument.

1966 Cherryburst Gibson Barney Kessel Regular (consignment) SOLD

It’s almost a sure bet that you have heard Barney Kessel. As a member of the ‘Wrecking Crew’, the group of go-to session musicians in Los Angeles during the 1960’s, he played — anonymously, of course — on a vast number of hit records.

Cherry Red 1960 Gibson ES-355 (consignment) SOLD

Almost the Grail – a Cherry Red 1960 Gibson ES-355. Gibson introduced the thinline ES series in 1958, and the innovative combination of solid center block and acoustic chambers beyond made the line an instant hit.

2010 Metallic Red Fender 50th Anniversary Jazz Bass SOLD

This afternoon we have a 2010 metallic red Fender 50th Anniversary Jazz Bass in pristine condition. The Jazz Bass was introduced in 1960 and was an instant hit, with its wider range of tones (compared to the Precision Bass) and its slim neck.

1990 PRS Standard 24 Brazilian (consignment) No Longer Available

Today we’re featuring a 1990 PRS Standard 24 Brazilian in Midnight Blue. This is one of the last guitars produced with the Brazilian rosewood fingerboard.

Larrivee OM-04 Bloodwood SOLD

Here is a beautiful Larrivee OM-04 Bloodwood selling for $1780.

2002 Anthony Karol Parlor Guitar SOLD

This is a 2002 Anthony Karol Parlor Guitar, built in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.
Anthony Karol has been building in the Mississauga area (this is just west of Toronto, Canada) since at least 1999.

1957 Gibson J-45 (consignment) SOLD

1957 Gibson J-45

2007 Stelling Golden Cross Banjo (consignment) No Longer Available

In absolutely mint condition, this 2007 Stelling Golden Cross Banjo looks like it just came out of a time machine.

Geoff Stelling builds spectacular banjos and the the Golden Cross is actually named after Tony Golden, a friend and one of Stelling’s early customers.

2005 Taylor 312ce Left Handed Steel String Acoustic (consignment) SOLD

This 2005 Taylor 312ce Left Handed Steel String Acoustic guitar is in great condition. The Sapele back and sides share a lot of tonal characteristics with mahogany, and have a strong visual similarity as well.

Taylor Guitars

Here at the 12th Fret we are proud dealers for Taylor Guitars! We have been Top 5 Canadian Independent Dealer in 2008, 2010 and 2012 and we carry around 30 models ranging from GS Mini’s to the Koa Series and custom pieces from Taylor’s Build to Order program!

1962 Gibson ES-335 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a very nice 1962 Gibson ES-335. The ES-335 was introduced in 1958 with dot markers (hence the early, prized ‘dot neck’ versions) and the new PAF — Patent Applied For — pickups, and was an instant hit.

2009 Guild D-55 Dreadnought SOLD

Here is a beautiful 2009 Guild D-55 Dreadnought steel string. This is pretty much the top of the line for Guild dreadnoughts, and this example is in near-mint condition.

Hill Munich 2002 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a Hill Munich classical from 2002 in great overall condition selling for $1600.

1996 Charvel Surfcaster 12 SOLD

This is fun – a 1996 Charvel Surfcaster 12! First introduced in 1991, this take on the electric 12 string guitar uses a chambered mahogan body with a maple cap, and a bolted-on maple neck.

1974 Fender Stratocaster Refinished White No Longer Available

Here’s a 1974 Fender Stratocaster Refinished White. This is a solid playable instument, with its value in that aspect and less so in its age.

Larrivee L09 Custom Shop SOLD

Here’s a Larrivee L09 Custom Shop. Imagine my excitement upon getting an email from Larrivee with photos of some highly figured Indian rosewood sets that they had available.

Hill Signature 2010 (Consignment) SOLD

This Hill Signature classical from 2010 is in great overall shape and selling for $5250.

2010 Gibson A-5 Mandolin (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a 2010 Gibson A-5 Mandolin, built in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s in great shapw with just a few marks here and there from being played, and has a great tone with lots of volume; it’s bright without being harsh.

De Jonge 8 String Nylon 1985 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a De Jonge 8 string Nylon guitar from 1985 in excellent condition selling for $3900.

2011 Melancon Pro Artist No Longer Available

Here’s a 2011 Melancon Pro Artist in a very, very good Mary Kaye White lacquer finish. Gerard Melancon builds guitars out of Thibodaux, Lousiana. He grew up with lots of great Cajun and country music in his family and the surrounding area, gigged with a number of rock bands and played sessions before gradually shifting to guitar building.

Cherryburst 1961 Gibson J-45 SOLD

Here is a lovely Cherryburst 1961 Gibson J-45. The J-45 has been a standard guitar since its introduction in 1942 – now 71 years ago! – and the design works really well. More and more I hear people say they’ve chosen a particular guitar “because it has songs in it”, and the songs start falling out when the guitar is played. This might be one of those instruments.

2005 Gibson Blues King (consignment) SOLD

This is a very fun little 2005 Gibson Blues King. The Blues King is based on the L-00 body style, and is very well suited to fingerstyle blues and ragtime playing styles. Built with a Sitka spruce top and African Bubinga back and sides, it has a warm, even tone with a surprising amount of projected volume.

1999 Ernie Ball Music Man Albert Lee Black SSS No Longer Available

Here’s a nice 1999 Ernie Ball Music Man Albert Lee Black SSS model in great playing condition.
Music Man was originally founded by Forest White, Tom Walker and Leo Fender, fresh from but not quite free of of his contractual agreements with Fender Musical Instruments and CBS.

1972 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster SOLD

Here’s a treat – a 1972 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster in really nice condition. The Stratocaster has been an extremely popular guitar since its introduction in 1954, and has since never gone out of production. It’s appeared in pretty much all music styles and the design has been copied and modified by countless other builders.

2011 Kentucky KM505 A-Style Mandolin (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a very nice 2011 Kentucky KM505 A-Style mandolin. The A-Style, along with the F-Style — both introduced by Orville Gibson in the early part of the 20th century — have become the most commonly used mandolin body designs, shifting the instrument almost completely away from the traditional European bowl-back concept.

1966 Dakota Red Fender Mustang (consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Here’s a lovely 1966 Dakota Red Fender Mustang! In 1965, Fender introduced the Mustang as part of a series of student instruments, and produced it until 1982. It came in two scale lengths – 22.5 inches and (like this one) 24 inches.

Ernie Ball Music Man Silhouette Special (Used) No Longer Available

This Silhouette Special from Ernie Ball Music Man is a hands down wicked double cut, single coil rock machine. Selling for $1050.

SOLD!!! 1982 Hirade Master Arte Model 7 Classical Guitar

Here’s a well played, 1982 Hirade Master Arte Model 7 Classical guitar.

Hirade guitars are built by Takamine in Japan as their top-range classical instruments, and this example is signed by master luthier, Mass Hirade.

1959 Fender Jazzmaster (consignment) SOLD

Comments A classic, the 1959 Fender Jazzmaster. Leo Fender introduced the Jazzmaster at the 1958 NAMM show and intended it as an upmarket offering to jazz guitarists. However, it wasn’t met with the same kind of roaring success as the Telecaster and Stratocaster and Precision Bass. Serial Number 32985 Pricing $5650.00 CAD with original tweed case. SOLD Neck Maple neck with unbound ‘slab’ rosewood fingerboard; original decal in good condition. Frets Original frets with noticeable play wear. Body Offset, contoured alder

1959 Martin 00-18E Steel String Acoustic No Longer Available

This is a pretty rare, 1959 Martin 00-18E steel string acoustic.

The 00-18E was built from 1959 to 1964, in response to the quest for volume, and this is one of the first. It uses the 00 style body, with the 18 construction – spruce top, mahogany back and sides – but the top is thicker and uses heavier bracing.

Greenfield Slope Dreadnought Maple 2000 (Consignment) SOLD

This Greenfield Slope Dreadnought features beautiful flamed maple and lovely inlay work. Selling for $3600.

1956 Gibson SJ (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a great 1956 Gibson SJ. The SJ, a slope-shouldered jumbo, was introduced in 1942 and was available only in sunburst until 1954, when a ‘natural’ option appeared; that was called the ‘Country Western’ model in 1956.

2005 Gibson J-185 EC Custom (consignment) SOLD

Here is a 2005 Gibson J-185 EC Custom in cherry red! In case you’re wondering – the EC stands for Electric Cutaway; it’s not the initials of a famous player. Gibson introduced the J-185 in 1951 and discontinued it in 1959, building 270 natural finish and 648 sunburst examples.

Godin Seagull with Sound Port Modification

Here’s a Godin Seagull with Sound Port modification that increases, for the player, their volume and tone experience of the guitar.

1973 Fender Twin Reverb Amplifier (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a 1973 Fender Twin Reverb Amplifier! Fender started producing the Twin Amplifier in 1952, and with a variety of changes, produced it until 1963, when it was replaced by the quite different Twin Reverb Amp – the differences are much more than the addition of a reverb tank.

2007 PRS SC 245 Gold Top Singlecut Solidbody SOLD

Here’s a very nice 2007 PRS SC 245 Gold Top Singlecut Solidbody. The single-cutaway solidbody design has certainly proven itself over the last sixty years. Paul Reed Smith’s take on the idea features mahogany back and maple cap, set neck construction, but has a slightly elongated body that’s really quite attractive.

2011 Harrison G B Custom Maple SOLD

Here is a 2011 Harrison G B Custom Maple, in excellent condition. The GB model is designed to produce an acoustic archtop sound from a comfortable guitar.

2009 Gibson Custom Shop ES-330 (consignment) No Longer Available

This is a very clean 2009 Gibson Custom Shop ES-330. Gibson started producing the ES-330 in 1959, but not, as you might think, as a ‘cheaper’ version of the new, popular ES-335. Instead, it was to replace the discontinued ES-225,

2010 Eastman Dawg Mandolin (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a great-condition 2010 Eastman Dawg mandolin. There aren’t a lot of successful, innovative mandolin designs, with the traditional — though in their day, radical, innovative and groundbreaking — A and F styles being the most common.

1933 Gibson Century TB-2 Tenor Banjo SOLD

Here’s a wonderful 1933 Gibson ‘Century’ TB-2 Tenor Banjo.

The term ‘Century’ refers to the peghead and fingerboard overlay – these were installed to honor the 1933 ‘Century of Progress’ Exhibition held in Chicago.

1933 Kel Kroydon KK-1 steel string SOLD

This is a 1933 Kel Kroydon KK-1 steel string guitar. Kel Kroyden instruments — including guitars, banjos and mandolins — were made by Gibson and sold in department stores. This was all in an ongoing effort to increase their sales with lower-cost instruments without diluting the value of the Gibson name, or alienating Gibson dealers.

Epiphone ES-355 Ebony (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

Presenting the Epiphone ES-355 Ebony! The ES-355 was introduced by Gibson in 1958 and was an instant hit. The combination of arcthop tone and class, and solidbody sustain, brightness and feedback rejection at volume makes the design extremely verstatile.

SOLD OUT Egnater Summer Sale

Sale: 15% off on all in stock Egnater Amps!

2010 Carr Viceroy 1×12 Amplifier (consignment) Sold

Here’s a very clean 2010 Carr Viceroy 1×12 Amplifier! The Viceroy is a hand-wired, class A amp with two 6L6 tubes and a tube reverb. It’s switchable between 33 and 7 watts, and has an Eminence 12 inch speaker.

2008 Carr Rambler 2×12 Amplifier (consignment) SOLD

Here is a great condition, hand-wired 2008 Carr Rambler 2×12 Amplifier. The Rambler is a switchable pentode (28 watt) or triode (14 watt) design intended to enhance the idea of a ‘deluxe’ club amp, with reverb and tremolo circuits.

Goodall KGCC 2000 (Consignment) No Longer Available

This Koa Grand concert steel string from Goodall has a lovely blend of silky smooth midrange bloom and crisp treble cut. The body size and neck profile make for a very comfortable playing experience and this example is in near mint condition!

NO LONGER AVAILABLE!!! Gibson ES-335 Gold Thinline Archtop

Here’s an unexpected stunner – a Gibson ES-335 Gold Thinline Archtop!

The official designation for this guitar is “Gibson ES-335 Dot Plain Gold” but it is only ‘Plain’ in the sense that Gibson doesn’t focus on using figured woods when they’re going to paint a solid colour.

2013 Gibson Plain Gold ES-335 Thinline Archtop SOLD

Here’s an unexpected stunner – a 2013 Gibson Plain Gold ES-335 Thinline Archtop!
This guitar is only ‘Plain’ in the sense that Gibson doesn’t focus on figured woods when they’re going to put a solid colour on. The ES-335 and its cousins were very successful from their introduction.

Shannon Double Cutaway steel string acoustic (No Longer Available)

Here’s a 2002 Shannon Double Cutaway steel string acoustic.
For some time, Canada has had a lot of independent instrument builders, working away all over the country. Larry Shannon has been building in Innisfil, Ontario for some time.

2012 Gretsch 6128T Left Handed Duo Jet (consignment) SOLD

Here is a 2012 Gretsch 6128T Left Handed Duo Jet! The Duo-Jet has been one of Gretsch’s most popular rock models since the 1950’s, and was the guitar that George Harrison used on the first few Beatles albums.

1967-1969 Goya Rangemaster 12 string Electric SOLD

Here’s a 1967-1969 Goya Rangemaster 12 string electric! Starting around 1954, Goya guitars were originally made in Sweden for the Herschman Musical Instrument company of New York, by the Levin company, who had been building instruments since around 1900.

Beaver Creek 4 Course Tiple Conversion

Here is an interesting Beaver Creek 4 Course Tiple Conversion. Sometimes, players need instruments in forms that aren’t readily available, custom builds are out of the question, and so we have to find a way to meet the need.

Letain Eraser, 2012 SOLD

This beautiful archtop guitar from Jeff Letain is selling for $5500.

2005 Alvarez by Kazuo Yairi FYM95V steel string SOLD

Here is a very nice 2005 Alvarez by Kazuo Yairi FYM95V steel string.

Alvarez guitars are built in the Yairi plant in Kani, Gifu, Japan, a small town in a mountainous area. The Yairi family has been involved in classical guitar and violin building since perhaps 1935

1921 Martin A-Style Oval Hole Mandolin SOLD

Here is a 1921 Martin A-Style Oval Hole Mandolin. C.F. Martin has been building instruments in Nazareth, Pennsylvania since 1833. In the at the end of the 19th and early part of the 20th century, mandolin orchestras were very popular,

1970 Fender Fretless Precision Bass No Longer Available

Here is a great condition 1970 Fender Fretless Precision Bass. The Fender Precision Bass has been in continuous production since 1951, with some changes in response to musical trends.

1963 Fender Precision Bass SOLD

Here is a 1963 Fender Precision Bass in excellent playing condition. The P-Bass was introduced in the 1951’s and stepped right up to become the most recorded instrument in history.

2009 Tweed Valvetrain Tallboy 205 SOLD

Here’s a 2009 Tweed Valvetrain Tallboy 205, in ultra-clean condition.

The Valvetrain Tallboy 205 is a hand-wired 5-watt Class A tube amp based on the 1955 Fender Princeton 5F2A. It’s pretty straightforward, with inputs, volume and tone controls, and a 12 inch Eminence Legend speaker.

1966 Fender Pro Reverb Blackface Amp (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a very clean, 1966 Fender Pro Reverb Blackface Amp. It’s been recapped and has a replacement 3-prong AC cord for safety.

Fender started building the Pro Reverb amp in 1965, and production ran until 1982.

Gibson Midtown Standard with Bigsby (Consignment) SOLD

Here is something new – a Gibson Midtown Standard with Bigsby. Always on the search for new ideas, in 2011 Gibson introduced the Midtown as a blend of classic designs and new features and technologies.

The Midtown is based on the visuals of the ES-3xx series guitars, and is thinline but isn’t arched, it’s a chambered, flat top guitar. The top is solid maple (rather than laminate as on the ES-3xx series) and the back is chambered mahogany.

Peavey EVH Wolfgang Standard SOLD

The Peavey EVH Wolfgang Standard was one step along the path of Eddie Van Halen’s work and association with various guitar manufacturers.

The EVH Wolfgang ‘Standard’ was built from 1996 to 2002 in Leakesville, Mississippi (and then to late 2004 in Meridian, Mississippi), though in fact, Peavey did not use the term ‘Standard’ with reference to these models.

1927 Gibson L-4 Archtop Guitar SOLD

Here is a very nice 1927 Gibson L-4 archtop guitar. Gibson introduced the L-series guitars around 1902 with the L-1, L-2, and L-3 and the L-4 first appeared in 1911 or 1912, and was produced with minor variations (for example, the soundhole ring changed periodically, using plain, diamond and checkerboard patterns) until 1956.

1962 Conde Hermanos Flamenco Estudio Guitar SOLD

Here is a 1962 Conde Hermanos Flamenco Estudio guitar, with a German Spruce top and 3 piece Cypress back and sides. A single owner guitar for 51 years! This guitar is completely original and in remarkably clean condition. Though the Estudio guitars, often called “tourist guitars” don’t have the high value of the Maestro- built Conde Hermanos guitars, this guitar is a gem!

1966 Blackface Fender Bassman Head SOLD

Here is an exceptionally clean 1966 Blackface Fender Bassman head. The Fender Bassman was one of Fender’s most successful designs, but despite the name on the panel, many guitarists have used them.

1995 Fender Custom Shop Stratocaster (consignment) SOLD

This 1995 Fender Custom Shop Stratocaster is a great playing guitar in very clean condition.

The finish is in very good shape with a beautiful dark three tone burst. The neck is a very nice piece of birds-eye maple.

1999 Gibson ES-5 Alnico (Consignment) SOLD

Here’s a real treat: a very good condition 1999 Gibson ES-5 Alnico, built in the Gibson Custom Shop at Nashville, Tennessee. The Gibson ES-5 was first produced in 1949, as an alternate electric model of the L-5. Intended for jazz players, the ES-5 had three pickups and lots of controls to allow subtle tonal adjustments.

2000 Michael F Lazar Classical Guitar SOLD

Here is a fine 2000 Michael Lazar classical guitar.

Michael Lazar is a builder — and ex-banker — living and working in St. Albert, Alberta. He discovered a passion for classical guitars and began building classical guitars around 1980. Since retiring from banking in 2000, has focused on guitar construction.

Kelton Swade 57 Sunburst (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

Here’s a Kelton Swade 57 Sunburst. Kelton Swade has been producing what he calls AVR guitars – Authentic Vintage Replicas – for some time now and has gained a devoted following amongst high-end players like Keith Urban and Vince Gill.

1980s Music Man MM 112 RD50 amplifier SOLD

Here is a very clean 1980s Music Man MM 112 RD50 amplifier.

Leo Fender sold his namesake company to CBS Musical Instruments in 1965.
In 1971, he quietly formed a new company named Tri-Sonics Inc. with Tom Walker and Forrest White.

1990 Fender Tweed 59 Bassman amplifier No longer Available

Here’s a 1990 Fender Tweed 59 Bassman amplifier.

Fender originally introduced the Bassman in 1952 as a 26 watt, single 15 inch speaker. In late 1954, it was changed radically with an increase in power to 40 watts — and a change to four 10 inch speakers.

Dubosq OM Ziricote 2012 No Longer Available

This lovely Dubosq OM Ziricote is selling for $2999.

2002 DAquisto New Yorker Archtop (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s an unusual find: a 2002 DAquisto New Yorker archtop. This is model DQ-NYE.

James D’Aquisto apprenticed to John D’Angelico in New York, and following D’Angelico’s death began building guitars with his own name, until his death in 1995. Original D’Aquisto guitars are rare and extremely valuable, into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

2009 Koch Powertone 2 amplifier head SOLD

Here’s a 2009 Koch Powertone 2 amplifier head in great condition. Koch has been building amps in Holland for 25 years. Well known in Europe, these amps are recognised for their power, tone and reliability. The Powertone is oriented towards blues, rock and metal players.

2005 Fender Deluxe VM amp (consignment) SOLD

This is a 2005 Fender Deluxe VM amp. It’s based on the 40 watt (2 6L6 power tubes), single 12 inch speaker design of the Deluxe, but it has extra features added – hence the VM or Vintage Modified designation.

❌SOLD❌ Blackface 1965 Fender Super Reverb Amplifier

Here’s a very nice Blackface 1965 Fender Super Reverb Amplifier.

The term ‘Blackface’ refers to the black panel with white script lettering, used on Fender amplifiers between 1964 and 1967. They were preceded by ‘Brownface’ models and followed by ‘Silverface’. During the ‘Blackface’ period – in 1965 – CBS purchased Fender, but the new management made no changes to the amps until 1967, and those changes are seen in the ‘Silverface’ amps.

2011 Warmoth Custom Telecaster No longer available

Here is a 2011 Warmoth Custom Telecaster.

The Telecaster has been in production in one form or another (including as Broadcaster and Esquire, and ‘nocaster’) since early 1950. Part of the brilliance of its design is its adapability. It can easily be customized in a myriad of ways and still work as a playable and reliable instrument. This adaptability has led to a large market for third party manufacturers.

1955 Tweed Fender Deluxe Amplifier SOLD

And here is a 1955 Tweed Fender Deluxe Amplifier!

Leo Fender built these amplifiers based on the 5E3 push-pull circuit. and they have become a basic reference standard for guitar amplifier design. Many ’boutique’ and small-builder amplifiers are based closely on these 1950’s Fender amps.

1979 Hiwatt Custom 100 head and 1975 Hiwatt SE4123 cabinet SOLD

The return of the Half Stack – a 1979 Hiwatt Custom 100 head and 1975 Hiwatt SE4123 cabinet!

Hiwatt has always been known for high quality construction and clean amplification – with full attention to the ‘Loud’ part of amplification!

2009 Kendrick Texas Crude Harp Amp SOLD

Here’s a 2009 Kendrick Texas Crude Harp Amp in pristine condition. Kendrick hand builds amplifiers in Kempner, Texas. The Texas Crude Harp Amp was introduced in 1993 to provide harmonica players with a solid, reliable, great sounding and loud amp. The design and construction have been unchanged since then.

1959 Gibson ES-330 TC Thinline Archtop Electric (consignment) SOLD

Here’s something rare and special – a 1959 Gibson ES-330 TC Thinline Archtop Electric.

The ES-330 was introduced in 1959 and discontinued in 1972. Along the way, in 1968,an optional ‘longer’ neck – one that joins the body at the 19th fret but has the same scale length – became available and many of the later versions have this option.

Oddly, the 330’s biggest claim to fame isn’t as itself. Gibson sent a version to Epiphone to take advantage of that dealer base, where it became the Casino. It turned out to be a favourite guitar with one of those British bands that sold a few records in the mid 1960’s.

2001 Gibson Les Paul Standard Sunburst (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a very clean 2001 Gibson Les Paul Standard Sunburst.

The Gibson Les Paul is one of the most successful electric guitar designs and is used in all kinds of music. This particular example from 2001 is in great shape, with a medium rounded profile neck, Grover tuners and hardly any wear.

1955 Gibson J-185 Sunburst (consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely 1955 Gibson J-185 Sunburst. Introduced in 1951 as a smaller alternative to the big Super Jumbo models like the J-200, the J-185 offers similar aesthetics (though it’s nowhere near as decorated!) with a shorter scale length (24.75 inch, as with the J-35 and most Gibson electrics).

2007 Lapdancer Lap Steel Prototype No Longer Available

2007 Lapdancer Lap Steel Prototype

1959 Gibson J-200 Sunburst No Longer Availalble

Here’s a wonderful 1959 Gibson J-200 Sunburst.

Gibson introduced the J-200 in 1938 as the top of the line. It was originally named the Super Jumbo, then in 1939 renamed the Super Jumbo 200, and in 1955 got its current name. Because of its position at the top end of Gibson’s line, production quantities have never been high.

This example is in excellent structural condition and is very clean and glossy. It’s had some maintenance over the years, including a refret, and is ready for many more years of use.

2013 Kelton Swade Relic 1953 (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

Here’s a very, very cool 2013 Kelton Swade Relic Tele 1953. Kelton Swade’s guitars have become popular with top artists who need the tone and vibe of a genuine early instrument, but don’t want to risk the real thing on the road. Artists using these instruments include Keith Urban, Johnny Hiland, and Vince Gill.

Picking one up and actually playing it will tell you why. It’s an outstanding instrument, well made and vibrant.

2003 Cole Clark Violap Horseshoe lap steel guitar SOLD

Here’s a very cool 2003 Cole Clark Violap Horseshoe lap steel guitar.

This Violap features a horseshoe type pickup, so-called because the pickup magnet wraps around the coil (rather than being embedded in the coil). This unique pickup design dates back to early electric Rickenbacker instruments – from the 1930’s – but this history has presented opportuntities for potential infringement. Consequently, current Cole Clark instruments use humbucking and piezo pickups.

This example is in very good condition with a unique tone.

❌SOLD❌ Larrivee Limited P-01 ISS Commemorative Parlor Guitar

Announcing the Larrivee Limited P-01 ISS Commemorative Parlor Guitar!

Larrivée Vancouver is starting a limited run of P-01 parlors that will replicate the Larrivee guitar that has been used on the International Space Station (ISS) for the past decade.

No longer Available!!! 1999 Left Handed Gretsch 6119LH Tennessee Rose

ere’s a lovely 1999 Left Handed Gretsch 6119LH Tennessee Rose. We don’t see a lot of this model, and even fewer in left handed. The Tennessee Rose is a modern rendering of the Tennessean, which was very popular with British bands during the early to mid 1960’s.

This particular guitar was built a few years before 2003, when Fender stepped up to an agreement with Gretsch. Likely built in the Terada plant where most ‘pro-line’ Gretsch guitars are now made, this is an excellent instrument.

2008 Gold Sparkle PRS McCarty Archtop II SOLD

This is a wild 2008 Gold Sparkle PRS McCarty Archtop II! Custom built for a prominent Canadian touring band, this unusual instrument has been well maintained and is ready for the stage or set. Paul Reed Smith introduced the McCarty Archtop and Archtop II in 1998, but discontinued it in 2000. Most of the McCarty archtops have carved mahogany back and mahogany sides, and spruce top. This Archtop II,(and its silver-sparkle sister) has carved maple top and back, and maple sides.

2008 Silver Sparkle PRS McCarty Archtop II SOLD

This is a spectactular 2008 Silver Sparkle PRS McCarty Archtop II! Custom built for a touring band, this unusual instrument has been well maintained and is ready for the stage or set. Paul Reed Smith introduced the McCarty archtop in 1998, and this version was produced until 2000.

2011 Martin 000-18 guitar (consignment) SOLD

Here is a very clean 2011 Martin 000-18. The 000-18 is a fairly plain, straightforward, extremely competent guitar and has been produced by Martin since 1921 (except for 1932 and 1933).

A little brighter than rosewood models, the smaller body size adds to comfort and a more balanced tone, without the potential for ‘boominess’ often found with dreadnought guitars.

Boucher Wild Goose OM 2010 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a great sounding Boucher Wild Goose OM selling for $1800.

Gibson Les Paul Class 5 2001 (Consignment) No Longer Available

This beautiful Gibson Les Paul Class 5 with Tiger purple finish and highly flamed top is selling for $3299.

2010 JMI 15 Combo Amplifier No Longer Available

Here is a near-mint 2010 JMI 15 combo amplifier.

In the late 1950’s to the mid 1960’s, JMI – Jennings Musical Instruments – built Vox amps and these were *the* amps to have in the UK. In 1964, JMI was sold to the Royston group and American rights went to the Thomas Organ Company. Jennings left in 1967, Marshall became the dominant amplifier, and JMI folded in 1968.

No longer available!!! Duesenberg Star Player TV 2008 (Consignment)

Here is a eye catching Duesenberg Star Player TV selling for $2000.

Five Bluegrass Banjos under One Thousand Dollars SOLD

Summer is here and banjo music is in the air! Here are five Bluegrass Banjos under One Thousand Dollars.

I’m always in short supply for good, playable, used banjos in the under $1000 price range but some nice trade-in banjos came in this week.

All 5 banjos below are ideal for the intermediate player who wants a good sounding banjo but is not ready to move up to a professional instrument.

1962 Fender Super Amplifier SOLD

Here’s a wonderful 1962 Fender Super Amplifier.

The need for volume had always been there. By 1962, technology was catching up and significantly more power was available to the working musician. The Super Amp nudged 40 watts into two 10 inch speakers.

1960 Fender Champ Amplifier SOLD

Here’s a lovely 1960 Fender Champ Amplifier. After having its name shortened from Champion and getting a boost to 5 watts!) in 1955, the Champ continued production and was very popular with beginner musicians.

Or, it was popular until massively more powerful amps became available, and the demand for small amps fell off.

1955 Fender Champ Amplifier SOLD

Here’s a very cool 1955 Fender Champ Amplifier. The Champ was introduced in 1948, when it represented a sizeable amount of power and volume, and discontinued in 1982, by which time it was completely overshadowed by stack-type amps with exponentially more power.

Guitar Workshop Plus Summer 2013 Sessions

Our friends at Guitar Workshop Plus dropped by with posters for their upcoming Guitar Workshop Plus Summer 2013 Sessions in Toronto and Vancouver! They are offering a wide range of classes and guest artists.

Taylor 710 L9 2004 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a great sounding Taylor 710 L9 selling for $1600.

New Shop Worn Ramirez model 2NE SOLD

New Shop Worn Ramirez model 2NE. Built in late 2012, this guitar is virtually unplayed and comes with full warranty.
A customer bopped the top with another guitar last week and put two chips in the top near the edge of the upper bout. They are filled with fresh finish, so the top is protected, but it is not invisible.

1996 Deering Vega Long Neck Banjo SOLD

This 1996 Deering Vega Long Neck Banjo is the long neck version of the Vega # 2 banjo as played by Pete Seeger.

It’s an open back model featuring an AAA-Curly-Maple neck with ebony fretboard, Tube-a-phone tone-ring, Historic “bracket band”, and Deering tailpiece. The current new price for this model is $3,995.00.

Ernie Ball Music Man Albert Lee MM90 Canadian Clinic Tour 2007 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s an Ernie Ball Music Man Albert Lee MM90 Canadian Clinic Tour 2007 guitar! It’s in perfect condition.

The pickguard of this instrument is signed by Albert Lee and a signed photograph is also included. All the original case extras are included.

Cadillac Green Gretsch G6196T Country Club

Presenting – the Cadillac Green Gretsch G6196T Country Club!

Occupying a position near the top of the Gretsch line since its introduction in 1954, the Country Club is often overshadowed by its slightly younger (1955) sibling, the White Falcon. While the two share many common features – body shape and size, scale length, much hardware – the Country Club features a solid spruce top, pushing it closer to the Gibson models like the Super 400.

Fender Strat Custom Shop Carved top 1999 (Consignment) SOLD

This beautiful Fender Strat Custom Shop Carved top from 1999 is in excellent condition and selling for $1399.

Music Man Axis Super Sport 25th Anniversary 2009 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Feast your eyes and ears on the beautiful Music Man Axis Super Sport 25th Anniversary model selling for $1549.00

1959 Fender Jazzmaster (consignment) SOLD

A classic, the 1959 Fender Jazzmaster.

Leo Fender introduced the Jazzmaster at the 1958 NAMM show and intended it as an upmarket offering to jazz guitarists. However, it wasn’t met with the same kind of roaring success as the Telecaster and Stratocaster and Precision Bass.

1964 National Bluegrass 35 Res-O-Glas Resophonic (consignment) SOLD

Here is a rare 1964 National Bluegrass 35 Res-O-Glas resonator guitar!

Built between 1964 and 1967, the National Bluegrass 35 shares many features with the Supro Resophonic FolkStar.

Pensa Custom MK-1 2000 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely Pensa Custom MK-1 in excellent condition selling for $3999.99.

2007 Collings I-35 Deluxe (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a pristine 2007 Collings I-35 Deluxe, built in Austin, Texas. Collings’ attention to detail and build quality are incredibly high and they produce stunningly beautiful instruments.

1965 Airline Professional Model No Longer Available

This is 1965 Airline Professional Model, 3-pickup electric with stock Bigsby tailpiece.

Airlines were found mostly in Montgomery-Ward catalogues in the 1960’s. While it now seems odd that electric guitars could be harder to come by, this was the case during the early 1960’s. Department store mail-order catalogues were a major player in the mass distribution of lower-cost instruments, and that’s how most of these instruments found their homes.

Airlines were made by Valco, who also produced National and Supro instruments.

1975 Gibson L6-S Deluxe (consignment) No longer available

This is a 1975 Gibson L6-S Deluxe.

Introduced during 1973 in collaboration with Bill Lawrence, the L6-S was meant to provide a very versatile instrument at a lower production (and sales) cost, and to appeal to rockers who wanted something different than a Les Paul or SG, and to jazzers who remembered the big L-series archtops.

1985 Yamaha SBG1200 SOLD

Here’s a very clean 1985 Yamaha SBG1200. Featuring a mahogany body with maple cap, and a maple neck (similar to Gibson Les Paul construction at the time), this is a seriously good guitar.

Yamaha built a range of solidbody electrics from the 1970’s and achieved some success with them, though not as much as with their acoustic line. A number of prominent players were seen with the higher end models, including Carlos Santana and more recently, John Frusciante.

1966 Fender Jazz Bass (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a hardworking 1966 Fender Jazz Bass.

Introduced in 1960, Leo Fender’s Jazz Bass tends to have a tighter, more focused tone that doesn’t emphasize the fundamental frequencies as much as the Precision bass does. This helps it to move ‘forward’ in an audio mix, making it more popular in emerging musical styles where there was more emphasis on the bass – for example, rock power trios and funk.

Four Project Instruments SOLD

Four Project Instruments

We often get interesting instruments that require more workbench time than we have to spare, and these four instruments can certainly be saved and deserve to be restored and enjoyed.

They are ideal “project” instruments for the home hobbyist and amateur Luthier.

Gibson J-35 – Discontinued (No Longer Available)

The Gibson J-35 is back, and what an entrance!

Originally produced in 1936, the J-35 was displaced by the classic (and slightly more expensive) J-45, and went out of production in 1942. About 3000 were originally made.

The headstock has the vintage Gibson script logo and the “Only A Gibson Is Good Enough” banner.

2002 Ibanez Artist AR2000 Prestige (Consignment) No Longer Available

This 2002 Ibanez Artist AR2000 Prestige is a great illustration of the quality level Ibanez is capable of.

Ibanez makes a lot of different guitars, and their Artist series is near the top. The AR2000 Prestige was built between 1998 and 2003, when it was superceded by the AR3000.

1953 D’Angelico New Yorker No Longer Available

This is a 1953 D’Angelico New Yorker, rare and one of a limited number.

John D’Angelico was born in New York City – the Lower East Side of Manhattan – in 1905. His parents were immigrants from Naples, Italy. As a boy, he worked in the instrument shop – building mostly traditional-style bowl-back mandolins and flat-top guitars – owned by his uncle Ralphael Ciani and D’Angelico took over around the age of 18, when Ciani died. Around 1932, he opened his own shop and was building archtops based on the popular Gibson design used by many big-band guitarists. In 1952, he took as an apprentice James D’Aquisto, who ultimately bought the business following D’Angelico’s death in 1964 at age 59.

2008 Weber Sage No.1 Octave Mandolin SOLD

Comments This is a 2008 Weber Sage No.1 Octave Mandolin in very good condition.

Weber instruments are hand-built in Loren, Montana. All solid woods are used – no laminates. This example has been played with just a little wear – finger gloss below the top strings.

Gold Star GF 100 FE Banjo SOLD

Serial Number N/A Pricing   Neck Mahogany neck with bound ebony fingerboard, Frets 22 narrow frets. Body Maple tone ring and mahogany resonator, chrome hardware. Finish Mahogany tint clear gloss finish. Hardware/electronics Chrome hardware, Gotoh tuning gears. Playability/Action   Case hard case included. Comments   You can preview our videos now on Our YouTube Channel! You can now Visit our Facebook page!

1958 Supro Dual Tone No Longer Available

Here’s a very cool 1958 Supro Dual Tone!

Supro was in the budget strata of the National / Valco range of instruments, and the Dual Tone shows many of the characteristics of the era. Build components varied widely depending on what was available; many Dual Tones have mahogany necks with rosewood fingerboards, this one has a maple neck with apparently an ebony board.

PRS Mira 2008 (Consignment) No Longer Available

The PRS Mira provides classic feel and simple tonal versatility! Selling for $1125.

Taylor 714ce 2011 (Consignment) SOLD

This Taylor 714ce is a beautiful looking and sounding guitar, selling for $1975.

1965 Hagstrom III No Longer Available

Here’s a 1965 Hagstrom III — marketed in the US as the F-300 Futura. These instruments were known for their thin yet wide necks – very “fast”.

Hagstrom originally marketed German accordions, and in 1958 started building electric guitars.

The Hagstrom III was built from 1964 to 1976. However, by 1984, they could not compete with Asian imports and ceased production of guitars and went back to accordions.

2012 Gretsch G6199B Billy Bo Jupiter Thunderbird Bass SOLD

This is a 2012 Gretsch G6199B Billy Bo Jupiter Thunderbird Bass! Thought up by Billy Gibbons, Bo Diddley and Gretsch, the 30.0 inch scale Billy Bo Bass really stands out on stage and on track.

The Jupiter Thunderbirds are based on a very few instruments Bo Diddley had built at the Gretsch factory around 1959. After it came into the possession of Billy Gibbons and appeared on several ZZ Top recordings, Gibbons approached Gretch with the idea of making it a production model partly to have some for touring! The guitar model is the G6199.

Gibson TG-1 Tenor Guitar circa 1932 No Longer Available

This is a Gibson TG-1 Tenor Guitar, circa 1932. The dating is not exact for this period, but it was made between 1927 and 1937.

Tenor guitars became very popular in the 1920’s, going with the rise of the tenor banjo as a rhythm instrument for jazz type music. Possibly first built in the dawn of the 20th century by Lyon and Healy – many of their guitars carried the brand name ‘Washburn’ – by 1920 most manufacturers built them.

Fender Bassman 1990’s (Consignment) SOLD

This Fender Bassman amp is in great shape and sells for $850.

1997 Gibson Herb Ellis ES-165 SOLD

Here’s a near-perfect 1997 Gibson Herb Ellis ES-165. The ES-165 is a single-pickup version of the classic ES-175, and Herb Ellis is, of course, one of the great jazz guitarists.

Many Gibson signature guitars have the artist’s name engraved on the truss rod cover. However, Herb Ellis commonly removed this part to mount a George Van Eps string damper (a lever device that damps the open strings from ringing), so the signature is stencilled on the headplate.

Fender Deluxe Reverb Reissue 2008 (Consignment) Sold

This Fender Deluxe Reverb Reissue from 2008 is in great shape and selling for $699.99

Xaver Grand Concert No Longer Available

Here is a lovely Xaver Grand Concert model from Ottawa builder Gerry Gruber!

Taylor GS Ltd 2011(Consignment) SOLD

Here is a beautiful Taylor GS Ltd from 2011 featuring figured mahogany, selling for $3350.

1967 Gibson ES-345 SOLD

Here’s a nice 1967 Gibson ES-345, with varitone; originally wired for stereo output, it’s been modified to a more practical mono setup.

Finding a place in all musical genres, the ES-335, 345 and 355 have been popular since their introduction in 1958 and have never gone out of production.

Schecter Scorpion Elite Baritone 2002 (Consignment) Sold

The Schecter Scorpion Elite Baritone has you covered for all your low pitch needs from tight clean to massive crunch. Sells for $750 with case!

Gibson Les Paul Studio 1995 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a Gibson Les Paul Studio from 1995 in a black finish that has some cosmetic wear and tear and is selling for $850.00

SOLD!!! Gretsch 130th Anniversary Junior – G6118T LTV JR

Here is the very, very cool Gretsch 130th Anniversary Junior – G6118T LTV JR. Gretsch has from time to time made smaller-bodied versions of their guitars, perhaps to balance out the giant Falcon and Country Club models.

But this isn’t a ‘Mini’ guitar – the body is smaller, close to the size of a George Benson model, but it’s full scale so the tension and tone are all there.

1972 Left-Handed Gibson Les Paul Deluxe SOLD

Here is a 1972 Left-Handed Gibson Les Paul Deluxe

Deering Vega Woodsongs Campfire Long Neck Banjo SOLD

Deering Vega Woodsongs Campfire Long Neck Banjo in near mint condition with original Vega case

Playing in E on a banjo is always a challenge: that is why Pete Seeger had the long neck built for him. These are normally played with the neck capo’ed up three frets and the 5th string capo tack in use so the banjo is played in G.

But when you want to switch to the big, full bass growl town when playing in E, you simply un-capo and you are ready to rock and roll!

Built around the Vega Little Wonder model, the wood tone ring pot lends itself perfectly to the full bass tone of a long neck
We stock the Campfire model but I’ve never had a used one show up. This one is near mint.

Collings City Limits Standard 2001 SOLD

The Collings City Limits Standard, this from 2001, is Bill Colling’s take on the classic single-cutaway, carved top electric guitar. Built for tone using high quality woods and exceptional workmanship, these are really great guitars.

This example from 2001 is in great condition with all original parts.

Gibson ES-135 Tobacco Burst 2001 (Consignment) SOLD

Here’s a lovely Gibson ES-135 Tobacco Burst, built during 2001 in Memphis, Tennessee.

The ES-135 was originally built from 1956 to 1958, and then again from 1999 to 2002. Some models had P-100 pickups — stacked, humbucking versions of the P-90 – and others, like this one, featured standard humbuckers.

This example is in near mint condition. It has an interesting quirk – the label identifies it as an ES-335!

Schertler David Amplifiers Sold Out

Schertler David Amplifiers on sale for $899, free shipping in Canada and USA! SOLD OUT

Masaru Kohno Special Classical Guitar 1988 (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a Masaru Kohno Special guitar from 1988.

Born in Osaka, Japan, Masaru Kohno studied under Arcángel Fernández in Madrid, Spain from 1960. By 1967, he was winning world-level guitar building competitions.

Known for very high quality workmanship, materials and tone, this is an excellent example of Kohno’s work.

Fender Stratocaster ‘Hardtail’ Sunburst 1977 (consignment) Sold

Here’s a Fender Stratocaster ‘Hardtail’ from 1977. The Stratocaster, one of the manifestations of Leo Fender’s genius, was introduced in 1954 with options for floating trem bridge and hard-tails, employing the back-of-body string ferrules found on the Telecaster. The hardtail verion was produced in smaller numbers until 2007, when it was discontinued. Hard-tail strats have a little more attack, bite, and sustain due to the lack of spring tension absorbing some energy.

Fender Jaguar 1965 (consignment) Sold

Here’s a lovely Fender Jaguar from 1965, in good condition.

Fender introduced the Jaguar in 1962. Its 24.75″ scale length was intended to make it attractive to players who preferred the shorter scale of Gibson guitars — this can make complex chord voicings easier to reach.

However, the Jaguar didn’t catch on much outside the Surf music community, and production ended in 1975. In the early 1990’s, Fender Japan started making reissues, and by 1999 US production had resumed.

Fender Stratocaster Natural 1973 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a lovely Fender Stratocaster in Natural finish from 1973. The Stratocaster was an instant hit when introduced in 1954 and has stayed popular since then.

This good-condition example from 1973 features a natural finish, mostly original hardware and has been refretted so it plays really well.

Fender Precision Bass 1967 (consignment) Sold

Here’s a Fender Precision Bass from 1967. The P-Bass has been the most successful bass instrument ever, and appears on more recordings in more styles than any other bass.

Extremely durable as well as versatile, these basses just keep going.

Martin D-42 Sinker Mahogany SOLD

Here’s a brand-new Martin D-42 Sinker Mahogany dreadnought, built specifically for the summer 2012 NAMM show, in a limited run of 15 guitars. This is number 10.

Though Martin has built ’42’ series instruments since 1898, the first dreadnought version of the D-42 was introduced in 1986. The next step up in decoration is the 45 series, but that’s not to say that the 42 is lacking.

The term ‘sinker’ generally means that the wood in question is essentially salvaged from the bottom of rivers. During logging transport, the densest logs might sink and not be recovered for long periods of time, in some cases 100 years or more.

William Laskin Art Deco Steel String

William “Grit” Laskin is arguably Canada’s best known private Luthier. Building continuously since 1971, Grit’s guitars have received world-wide recognition and respect.

Grit is particularly well known for his elegant “narrative” inlay work where he often tells a story relating to the dreams, aspirations and achievements of the buyer.

Ramirez 1a Traditional Madagascar 2006 (consignment) SOLD

The Ramirez 1a Traditional Madagascar, like this one from 2006, is the basic reference for concert grade classical guitars.

Featuring top-quality materials and craftsmanship, the 1a Traditional delivers tone, volume and playability.

This particular example is a bit worn from good, honest playing, and is more affordable than a new model.

Martin 00-18G 1958 (consignment) SOLD

Here is a very clean Martin 00-18G, built in 1958.

In the late 1950’s folk music revivals started in many countries. In response to this, instrument companies started making more nylon string instruments, which differ from what we now call ‘classical’ instruments in many ways. They are based on steel-string instruments, are intended to be strummed or plucked, and the neck is narrow enough that you can use your thumb for fretting!

Gibson Super 400 C 1977 SOLD

Once, giants roamed the earth’s stages and the Gibson Super 400 was at the top. Introduced in 1934, the Super 400 was priced at $400 — hence the name. Still in production, the price has increased somewhat.

The cutaway became an available option in 1939, with the model name of ‘Super 400 Premiere’, but eventually became the C model for ‘Cutaway’. In the 1950’s, the Super 400 started getting pickups, with a thicker top to reduce feedback.

This rare acoustic model is in great shape and looks back to the way the top-range guitars were just before WW2.

Epiphone Electar Zephyr Lap Steel Guitar 1943 No Longer Available

Here’s a very cool Epiphone Electar Zephyr lap steel guitar from 1943. These were amongst the very first solidbody electric instruments. Introduced in 1939, the Zephyr was made until 1957.

Pensa Custom MK-1 2000 (Consignment)

Here is a lovely Pensa Custom MK-1 in excellent condition selling for $4500.

Rickenbacker 4001 Bass 1980 (Consignment) No longer available

Here is a very nice Rickenbacker 4001 bass from 1980 selling for $1750

Martin 1955 CFMIV Guitars SOLD

In 2010, a limited series – 55 each! — of Martin 1955 CFMIV guitars were produced to celebrate the Christian F. Martin IV’s 55th birthday.

We’ve dug up a pair of these very limited production instruments, a D-18 and a D-28. They are brand new, with full warranties.

Gibson Custom Shop ES-390 SOLD

Here’s the all-new Gibson Custom Shop ES-390!

Following on the heels of the ES-339 series, the ES-390 gives the same treatment to the classic Gibson ES-330 series. The result is a smaller body, with very light weight and great playability.

GW Barry M CW 1997 (Consignment) No Longer Available

This GW Barry M CW guitar sounds awesome and is good overall shape, selling for $3500.

Mapletree flat top (Consignment) No Longer Available

This sunburst Mapletree flat top is selling for $750 and comes with a hardshell case.

Gibson ES-345 Stereo 1965 SOLD

Here’s a great Gibson ES-345 Stereo from 1965. It’s got the factory Varitone switch too!

The full designation of this particular instrument is “ES-345 TD SV”. It’s an Electric Spanish, model 345, Thinline, Dual pickup, with Stereo and Varitone.

Gibson SG Custom 1964 SOLD

Here’s a wonderful Gibson SG Custom from 1964. This was the top of the line for electric solidbodies in 1964!

The SG was originally introduced in 1961 as a complete re-design of the Les Paul guitar, which was not selling. However, Les Paul was not entirely thrilled with the design and towards 1963 the Les Paul name started to come off these instruments – partly as Gibson used up their stock of Les Paul branded truss rod covers and decals. By the end of 1963, the instument was known as the SG.

Gibson Les Paul VOS 1957 Left Handed, 2010 SOLD

Gibson Les Paul VOS 1957 Left Handed, 2010

Gibson Custom Shop Firebird Non-Reverse, 2003 SOLD

Here’s a very cool Gibson Custom Shop Firebird Non-Reverse from 2003, in a ‘TV White’ or ‘Limed Mahogany’ finish.

The Firebird was introduced in 1963 in the ‘Reverse’ form, where the lower cutaway is longer than the top. However, due to poor sales and some complaints from Fender, Gibson essentialy flipped the body and head to this ‘Non-Reverse’ form. Additionally, the ‘Non-Reverse’ models use a set neck, rather than a through-neck, construction.

Gibson L5 CES 1983 SOLD

The Gibson L5 CES is a classic, beautiful guitar and is the direct descendant of the big archtops of the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s. The CES designation stands for “Cutaway Electric Spanish”.

The original L-5 was designed by Lloyd Loar, first produced in 1922 and electrified in 1951. For most of that time, the L-5 has been the top of the heap for jazz guitars.

SOLD!!! Ryo Ryosuke Kobayashi Steel String, 2012

Here is a wonderful flat-top steel string guitar from Ryo Ryosuke Kobayashi, built during 2012. Ryo Ryosuke Kobayashi apprenticed to Sergei de Jonge at his shop in Chelsea, Quebec.

This impressive instrument features a somewhat oversize classical shaped body and an elegant contoured cutaway. The top is bound and the purfling follows the line of the cutaway very nicely.

Rusnak Alto 10 String Classical Guitar (consignment) SOLD

Here is a very interesting Edward Rusnak Alto 10 String Classical Guitar, built during 2012.

Since 1980, Edward Rusnak has been building renaissance and classical instruments, including lutes, citterns, violins, violas, and baroque guitars.

Collings Guitars and Mandolins in Action!

Check out these Collings Guitars and Mandolins in action!

Gibson F-2 Mandolin 1919 No Longer Available

Here is a very good condition Gibson F-2 Mandolin, built during 1919.

Gibson began producing non-traditional mandolins – that is, not using the European bowl-back, flat-top design – in the late part of the 19th Century, basing this radically new design on another traditoinal instrument – the violin. The F series features the ‘scroll’ on the upper bout, and the fancier headstock than the teardrop-shaped A series.

Orville Gibson died on August 21, 1918 of endocarditis. Not long after, the Gibson company hired Lloyd Loar to revamp the designs, and his first models started appearing around 1922. This fine example of Gibson instrument production falls between those two points.

Gibson Les Paul Standard 1980 SOLD

The Gibson Les Paul Standard, this one from 1980 is — well, it’s been a standard benchmark guitar since people started needing solidbody electric guitars.

Music Man Axis Super Sport 25th Anniversary 2009 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Feast your eyes and ears on the beautiful Music Man Axis Super Sport 25th Anniversary model selling for $1699.00

Jackson DK2M Pro 2012 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Get ready to rip with this Jackson DK2M Pro selling for $700.

Hofner 500/1 1964 Reissue Left Hand Beatle Bass No Longer Available

The Hofner 500/1 ‘Beatle Bass’ is one of the most recognizable instruments ever. It’s appeared on countless recordings, many of them rather well known hits.

This is the 1964 Reissue model, special ordered in left-handed. It is in as-new condition and has never been played.

Gibson SG Standard

The Gibson SG Standard has been an industry icon for decades. Introduced in 1961, the SG quickly became popular thanks to its streamlined, lightweight design and rich, crunchy tones. For 2013, Gibson has made some subtle teaks to the SG Standard model, bringing it closer to the design of its early 60’s predecessors. It now comes equipped with a pair of Gibson Classic ’57 Humbucking pickups; clean, clear, and lush sounding, with a moderate output. These pickups combine perfectly with

Gibson ES-335 TDC, 1969 No Longer Available

Here is a great all original, 1969 Gibson ES-335 TDC.

The full model name means that this is an ES-335 guitar, it’s Thinline, Dual pickups, and Cherry finish.

The ES-335 was introduced in 1958 to bridge the gap between full arch-top instruments, which were definitely developing issues with the the progress in amplification technology, and the full solid-body guitar, which could lack the warmth and resonance of an archtop.

Stelling Swallowtail Deluxe Banjo, 2005 SOLD

This beautiful Stelling Swallowtail Deluxe banjo was built in 2005. It’s in great condition with incredible wood selection, inlay, and engraving.

Stelling Bellflower Banjo, 1980 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a near-perfect Stelling Bellflower banjo from 1980. This walnut model is in excellent condition and a great value – they are around $4000 new!

Gibson L-5 CT, 2002 (consignment) SOLD

This Gibson L-5 CT from 2002 could be your best friend if you’re headed to the (orchestra) pit. It’s in near perfect condition, and is just a joy to play.

The L-5 CT is based on the L-5 CES but is a ‘thinline’ version, with a side with of 2.25″. It features the same carved, tuned spruce top and carved flame maple back.

Collings SJ 2010 used SOLD

This Collings SJ has a wonderful bright and focused tone and looks awesome! Selling for $2700.

Gibson A-1 Mandolin, 1916 (consignment) No longer available

Here is a lovely Gibson A-1 Mandolin from 1916. Gibson began producing the A-1 in 1902, featuring the teardrop shape and oval soundhole. This model was produced on and off; the first run ended in 1918 and restarted in 1922, that run went to 1927, then the final run from 1933 to 1943.

Ramirez 1a Traditional Madagascar, 1996 (consignment) No Longer Available

The Ramirez 1a Traditional Madagascar, this one from 1996, is the basic reference for concert grade classical guitars.

Featuring top-quality materials and craftsmanship, the 1a Traditional delivers tone, volume and playability.

Paulino Bernabe 10-String Classical, 1977 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s something rare and wonderful – a Paulino Bernabe 10-String classical, from 1977. This instrument is in very good condition with only small amounts of wear and a few small dings behind the bridge.

Paulino Bernabe has a shop in Madrid, and is one of Spain’s most respected luthiers. He’s been around guitar making most of his life; his father was a prominent figure in the Ramirez workshop and his family lived above it. At 17, Berbabe began an apprenticeship in the Ramirez shop.

Music Man Albert Lee HH New Colors

Now available in stock, new colors of the staff favourite and our best selling Music Man guitar the Albert Lee HH!

Gibson ES-5 Alnico, 1999 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a real treat: a very good condition Gibson ES-5 Alnico from 1999, built in the Gibson Custom Shop at Nashville, Tennessee.

The Gibson ES-5 was first produced in 1949, as an alternate electric model of the L-5. Intended for jazz players, the ES-5 had three pickups and lots of controls to allow subtle tonal adjustments.

Guild Aristocrat M-75, 1958 (SOLD)

This Guild Aristocrat M-75 from 1958 is in great playable condition; it looks great, it’s very comfortable, sounds fabulous, and it’s quite light.

Though we might be tempted to think that the Aristocrat was a response to the Gibson’s introduction of the Les Paul, it’s much more likely that it was a reaction to Gretsch’s introduction of Duo-Jet guitars.

Taylor GS Ltd 2011 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a beautiful Taylor GS Ltd from 2011 featuring figured mahogany, selling for $3650.

Larrivee Classical 1975 (Consignment) No longer available

Here is a Larrivee Classical from 1975, built while Jean Larrivee was here in Toronto. Aside from some cosmetic wear and tear this guitar is in great shape, has a great well balanced tone and comes with the original archtop hardshell case.

G W Barry Classical 1996 (consignment) SOLD

An extremely rare classical guitar, handmade by G.W.Barry in 1996.

Gordon Barry routinely built classical guitars when he worked with Larrivee guitars in the late 70s and early 80s. Since then he has built hundreds of steel string guitars but this privately commissioned classical guitar is a truly special instrument!

Taylor 414ce 2012 (Consignment) SOLD

The Taylor 414ce is a great jack of all trades guitar and this example is selling for $1399.

Protected: Brian Monte Replica, 1990’s

Brian Monty builds replicas of famous designs with far more attention to detail than the original mass-production builders. This beautiful example from the 1990’s is in excellent condtion and plays really well.

Mapletree flat top (Consignment) No Longer Available

This sunburst Mapletree flat top is selling for $1000 and comes with a hardshell case.

Tom Anderson Drop Top 2008 (Consignment) No Longer Available

This Tom Anderson Drop Top features a beautiful quilted maple top and a very cool Jack’s blue finish! Sells for $2199.99

Larrivee L09 1995 (Consignment) SOLD

This Larrivee L09 from 1995 is a lovely example of one of the most well balanced flat tops on the market today. Selling for $1500.

PRS SC 245 Artist Package Sale SOLD

With hundreds of guitars in stock, sometimes an incredible guitar simply flies “under the radar”

This PRS Single Cut, model 245 with Artist Package upgrades is a great example…a stunning guitar with a fabulous AAA flame maple top that has been “lost in the mix” and never sold.

Electric Bass Partial Fretless Conversion

From time to time, our repair shop is asked to do something a little out of the ordinary.

Converting an electric bass to fretless is pretty standard, but what isn’t so standard is just converting part of the fingerboard to fretless, with frets at either end.

Here are a few images of a conversion performed in The Twelfth Fret’s Repair Shop by Dave Hill.

NO LONGER AVAILABLE!!! Gibson J-200M Blondes

These two spectacular Gibson J-200M models, one a Trophy 75th Anniversary — the last of of a limited run of 75 instruments, made in Bozeman, Montana and celebrating the 75th anniversary of the J-200. These are the last two new J-200M guitars available anywhere.

KoAloha Ukuleles

A new arrival from Hawaii! KoAloha Ukuleles are individually handmade in Hawaii by one of the world’s premier makers. These professional performance grade Ukuleles are solid Hawaiian Koa wood body with Honduras mahogany.

Epiphone Broadway Masterbilt, 1932 (Consignment) SOLD

Epiphone began producing the Masterbilt series and the Broadway in 1931, featuring more elaborate decoration and the asymmetrical peghead seen here.

This very early Epiphone Broadway model, from 1932, is in great playing condition and is structurally sound.

Martin D-28, 1954 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a great sounding, professionally refinished Martin D-28 from 1954.

This instrument is in great structural and playable condition, has the classic D-28 tone and really is a joy to play.

Kenny Hill Hauser ’37 Classical, 2009 No Longer Available

Here we have a Kenny Hill Hauser ’37 Classical, 2009 model. This instrument has been well played and has a few marks, as French Polish finishes are prone to, but is in excellent structural condition.

Here’s what Kenny Hill has to say about this model:
“We are pleased to announce our new Hauser ’37 model – a very desirable concert guitar. The original guitar built for Andres Segovia by Hermann Hauser presently resides in New York’s Metropolitan Museum. Kenny Hill decided to develop the Hauser ’37 by closely following Richard Brune’s documented specifications both in materials and construction techniques. The results are very pleasing. This guitar’s sophistication, subtlety and quality of sound is exceptional. The Hauser ’37 is designed for the player seeking a singularly unique instrument, featuring the qualities of a custom made guitar, a faithful representation of Hauser’s timeless design, a joy to play and a exceptional sound.”

Gibson J-45, 1949 No Longer Available

Here’s a wonderful, seasoned Gibson J-45 from 1949. Warm, full and resonant, but not overly bassy, this demonstrates the classic J-45 sound, the reason that this model has been so popular since its introduction in 1942.

This guitar has been used as intended over the last sixty-plus years, and there’s wear to prove it. That use also contributes to its great sound.

Ovation Viper III, 1979 SOLD

From 1979, here’s an excellent conditon Ovation Viper III. The Viper featured an ash body and three single coil pickups.

Ovation Preacher, 1979 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s an Ovation Preacher from 1979 in excellent condition.

Ovation is mostly known for its breakthrough bowl-back acoustics, which became very popular on many stages. However, they did make a number of interesting solidbody electric guitars, including the Preacher.

Built between 1975 and 1981, the Preacher features a double-cutaway mahogany slab body and stereo/mono wiring.

Bourgeois Aged Tone Series

The best of Old and New … the Bourgeois Aged Tone Series!

Gibson Army Navy Special Model GY, around 1920 SOLD

The Gibson Army Navy Special, Model GY, was a nearly flat-top version of the L-Jr. archtop (the top has a slight arch but is not carved) and was built between 1918 and 1921. It was targeted to American servicemen during World War 1 and intended for sale at the local PX.

These instruments are fairly rare and have often been played, a lot – like this one. This is an interesting, quite playable, good sounding guitar with a definite history.

Hammertone Mandotar, 2000 (consignment) SOLD

The Hammertone Mandotar is a very interesting instrument. Built in George Furlanetto’s workshop in Hamilton, Ontario, these are a cross between a solidbody electric guitar and a mandolin.

They play very well, sound great, and a guitar player doesn’t have to learn any new voicings to just start using it.

Gretsch Roots Collection Soprano and Concert Ukuleles

The Ukulele has been making a strong comeback in popularity. Their portability, musical versatility and relatively low cost are big factors in this.

We carry a wide range of brands and models of Ukuleles, from inexpensive wooden soprano ukes to expensive metal-body resonator concert models.

Gretsch has released as part of their ‘Roots Collection’ a number of ukuleles, and here are two of them – the G9100 soprano and the G9110 Concert.

These are built of solid mahogany for the body, with mahogany necks and rosewood fingerboard and bridge.

The one shortcoming with these instruments is the stock friction tuners, so we’ve upgraded the tuners on these instruments to Grover Sta-Tites.

Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Goldtop, 1976 SOLD

Here’s a great Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Goldtop from 1976.
The Gibson Les Paul was first released with this finish – metallic gold top and clear on the rest of the guitar. Over the years, the gold top finish has been available but by the 1970’s was mostly seen on the Deluxe model, featuring two mini-humbucker pickups (from Gibson’s Epiphone stock) in P-90 sized routes.

Collings SJ 2009 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a beautiful maple small jumbo flat top – a Collings SJ from 2009. This one looks, sounds and plays great …. hands down!! Great overall shape with only some minor play wear. Comes with the original hardshell case!

No Longer Available!!! Gibson ES-175D, 1965 (consignment)

Here is a lovely Gibson ES-175D from 1965. It’s in good condition and sounds great. Cherry lacquer sunburst finishes fade in a very attractive manner, and this one is no exception.

The ES-175 was introduced in 1949 as a lower cost, electric version of the L-4, and was the first Gibson electric to feature the pointed ‘Florentine’ cutaway. It’s been in production ever since. Until 1953, the ES-175 was a single pickup guitar; at that point a second pickup was added and the guitar became the ES-175D. In 1957, the new Gibson humbuckers were added.

Gibson L-4C Archtop, 1952 (consignment) Sold

Here is a very nice Gibson L-4C from 1952. The L-4C was a cutaway version of the L4, and while this guitar was originally fully acoustic the pickup has been added to the pickguard so the body isn’t modified. The L-4 and L-4C feature a fully hollow body with a carved spruce top coupled with maple laminate back and sides. The L-4 was produced from 1912 to 1956 and the L-4C was produced from 1949 to 1971.

Supro ‘Super’ model, 1960 SOLD

Here’s a really cool Supro Super model, built in 1960. Even less usually, this is a two-pickup model. The Super is a short-scale – 22 inch! – guitar likely intended for students.

This instrument features a ‘silverburst’ finish, basically a white to black sunburst; this has also been used by Gibson on some Les Paul Custom models and by Fender, who named it ‘Antigua’.

Ed Henderson Concert and CD Release at Heliconian Hall!

Ed Henderson is one of my first customers going back to the early days of The Twelfth Fret. In those days he was busy playing the various “pit gigs” he had at Theatres around Toronto.

The guitarists who land these incredible theatre gigs are always the cream of the crop players — but I had no idea that he was such a fabulous solo steel string acoustic and nylon string player.

Ed moved out west several years ago but we do stay in touch. Recently when he passed through town and visited the store I got to hear him check out guitars in our classical room and was floored to hear what he was doing.

Ed’s CD knocked my socks off and his new CD release is just as enchanting.

Beard-GoldTone PBS-M Mahogany Squareneck Resonator SOLD

Here’s a lightly used Paul Beard – GoldTone PBS-M squareneck resonator. This instrument is in very good condition with only a few very small marks. If you’re looking for a good quality squareneck, this could be it!

Gibson Les Paul Junior Lite, 1999 (consignment) SOLD

Now THIS is a rock guitar! Here’s a Gibson Les Paul Junior Lite from 1999, looking remarkably like a Les Paul Special. The Les Paul Special was introduced in 1955 as a sincle-cutaway guitar to provide a lower cost model in the Les Paul line, and it immediately took a place in the rock arsenal. In 1958, it received a major makeover with the double-cut (DC) body design, which provides unrestricted access to all the frets. However, the DC model was discontinued during 1960, in favour of the new body design that became known as the SG.

Over the years, the Double-Cut body shape has been reissued. From 1999 to 2002, Gibson produced the guitar shown here, is a Special with P-100 hum-cancelling soapbar style pickups and mini trapezoidal markers, and called it the Junior Lite.

Dobro 60D Roundneck, 1971 SOLD

Here is a cool Dobro 60D Roundneck from 1971. This instrument is not in pristine condition, but could be restored; we’ve decided to leave that for the next owner.

It’s currently set up to work lap-style – with a steel rather than a slide – and in that configuration, it’s quite playable and sounds good!

Fender Bandmaster ‘Blackface’ amp, 1964 (consignment) SOLD

The Bandmaster was produced, in various forms, from 1953 to 1974. Output ranged from around 25 watts at first, to 40 watts. Originally a combo, the piggyback head-and cabinet design appeared in 196i, and this configuration is used for most professional grade, higher powered amps to this day.

Martin M-36 Store Demo Sold

This beautiful Martin M-36 is only very slightly shop worn and on sale for $1850.

J.K. Lado Dreadnought, Left Handed, 1975 (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a J. K. Lado dreadnaught acoustic from 1975 – left handed!

Joseph Kovacic has operated the Lado guitar company for many years, and before he expanded his workshop in Uxbridge, he worked out of 920 Kingston Road, Toronto. Shortly after he left that location in 1976, The Twelfth Fret opened its doors.

This is a good example of Lado instruments of that period.

Paramount Style A Tenor Banjo, 1935 (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a lovely Paramount Style A tenor banjo from around 1935. These were a standard professional instrument at the time; the Style A was the least decorated but was otherwise very similar to the more elaborate – and expensive – models.

This example is in great playing, and mostly original, condition.

William Laskin Classical, 1976 No Longer Available

William Laskin is one of the world’s premiere builders – consistently delivering tonal excellence with incredibly high build quality and spectactular inlay.

This Indian rosewood classical from 1976 has been used as intended – it’s been played, and it’s got a few marks from its experiences. But then, who doesn’t? It plays very well and speaks clearly with a well developed voice.

Fender Strat Hardtail 1973 (Consignment) SOLD

This early 70’s strat has a white finish that has been aged to a nice cream look. It is all original except for the added Schaller tuners and comes with an older non original hardshell case.

Letain Eraser, 2012

Jeff Letain builds innovative archtops in Sooke, British Columbia. We saw the Eraser at the Montreal guitar show and it had to come here!

A unique feature of this guitar is the interior concealed neck block offering unfettered access to all of the upper frets. This innovation offers maximum playability and balances the instrument beautifully. Both the pin and the tail piece have a beautiful chevron design incorporated into them.

Bourgeois Slope D Burst Sitka top (Consignment) No Longer Available

Just like slipping on your pair of old cowboy boots and saddling up for a hard ride this flat top is ready to run!! It is in great overall shape with very little play wear comes with original hardshell case and a vintage style sunburst that makes me long to ride off into the sunset like so many of my favourite westerns!!

National Reso-Lectric Junior, 2010 SOLD

Here’s a used National Reso-Lectric Junior! The Resolectric was discontinued a couple of years ago to make way for the ResoTone, and this example is in great shape. If you need to have that National sound, but seriously amplified, this is the way to get there!

Gibson J-45 1963 – 1964 (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson J-45 is an iconic American guitar and has appeared on countless stages and recordings. This cherryburst example is from 1963 or 1964; Gibson serial numbers are not definitive for this period.

This is a really good sounding guitar, and is structurally in quite good condition.

Thompson MP1 1997 (Consignment) No Longer Available

This Thompson MP1 flat top is in good overall shape and plays great. Selling for $1799.99

Mesa Recto Verb 50 Combo circa 2000 (Consignment) SOLD

This Mesa Boogie Recto Verb 50 combo is in great overall condition and sells for $500.

Martin D-18 GE 2007 (Consignment) SOLD

Get a great vintage vibe and sound for only $2300 with the Martin D-18 GE.

Ibanez GB-10 George Benson 1979 (Consignment) No Longer Available

This Ibanez GB-10 George Benson will have you swinging in no time! Sells for $1600

Breedlove Quartz OF Mandolin (Consignment) No longer available

This great sounding Breedlove Quartz OF Mandolin has a great natural look and sells for $850.00

Fender Strat 57 Reissue 1995 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a beautiful Fender Strat 57 Reissue selling for $1100.

Beneteau OM Padouk 2011 (Consignment) No longer available

This beautiful fingerstyle OM from Mark Beneteau looks, sounds and feels wonderful to play! Sells for $4999.99

Gibson Byrdland 1975 (consignment) Sold

The Gibson Byrdland was originally a custom built version of the L-5 and based on suggestions made by Billy Byrd and Hank Garland, two prominent Nashville session players in the mid to late 1950’s (Hank Garland played on many Elvis and Roy Oribison sessions that produced hit records).

The Byrdland was the first ‘thinline’ body and has a 23.5″ scale length, so really ‘wide’ chord voicings are easier. In production since 1955, this is a 1975 example. It’s in great playing shape and it has been played.

Gibson SG Standard 1968 (consignment) SOLD

Gibson introduced what became the SG during 1961 as a Les Paul model. With the end of the Les Paul endorsement deal for this guitar, the guitars were renamed to SG, though this process didn’t end till 1963 when Gibson finally ran out of the ‘Les Paul’ branded parts! The first production models carried ‘PAF’ pickups and a unique (and quickly discontinued!) side-pull trem. Various configurations of pickups, pickguards, bridges and tailpieces followed.

The 1968 SG Standard featured a larger ‘batwing’ pickguard, two humbuckers, Kluson tuners and the Maestro Vibrola.

This example is in good playing condition but was repaired long ago.

Gibson SG Standard, 1974 (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson SG has been a workhorse since its introduction. Versatile and capable, it has been used in pretty much every style of music.

This 1974 example shows a fair amount of wear, which really means that the guitar has been used for its intended purpose and has proved it can really do the job!

Greg Smallman Classical, 1998 (Consignment) SOLD

Greg Smallman builds top-drawer, professional concert grade yet not strictly traditional, classical guitars in Australia. This 1998 Smallman Classical model was built in Glen Innes, New South Wales; since then they’ve relocated near Esperance, Western Australia.

The construction, while not ‘standard’, is impeccable and produces a in instrument that is really quite loud and projects very well while maintaining tonal balance, fullness and warmth.

Since 2002, Smallman has brought his sons fully into the business and the label now reads “Greg Smallman And Sons Damon & Kym”

Fox Jumbo Sunburst, 2012 No Longer Available

A wonderful new Jumbo steel-string acoustic guitar from Canadian luthier Dave Fox – $2999.99

Beneteau 000-style, 1991 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a lovely Beneteau 000 guitar with an Engelmann spruce top selling for $3600.

Kay Pro Electric 1952 (consignment) SOLD

The Kay instrument company made many, many instruments from the late 1930’s. This Kay Pro Electric from 1952 is in excellent condition and is a good example of what was available just before solidbody guitars really took off.

Kay instruments were widely used by many top pop popular artists, from jazz great Barney Kessel to Andrew McMahon in Howlin’ Wolf’s band.

SOLD!!! Stelling Bellflower Banjo

Just in, a new Stelling Bellflower banjo! Here we have another superb example of Geoff Stelling’s craftsmanship.

Based on the very successful Stelling Bellflower Banjo , the Stelling Sunflower banjo features AAA-grade flame maple construction rather than Virginia Black Walnut; this provides a somewhat brighter tone with a more defined attack. The shaded ‘Cremona’ style sunburst finish pairs very well with the flamed maple.

Teye ‘La Perla’ Electric Gypsy, 2009 (consignment) SOLD

Built in Austin, Texas, this 2009 Teye ‘La Perla’ Electric Gypsy is something to behold! Heavily decorated with inlay and engraving using a wide range of materials, the ‘La Perla’ is near the top of Teye’s line.

Rickenbacker Model 325C64 JetGlo, 2011 (consignment) SOLD

Based closely on the 1964 model, the Rickenbacker 325C64 brings forth memories from anyone exposed to the ‘British Invasion’ – or the Ed Sullivan show! – in the early and mid 1960’s. This 2011 example is in good condition and is really interesting to play – and of course it has that sound. Complete with Accent vibrato tailpiece.

SOLD!!! Fender ‘Johnny Marr’ Jaguar

We’ve searched for some time for a Jaguar we were comfortable with, and Fender’s new Johnny Marr version looks like it! The Marr Jaguar is a little lower output, brighter and janglier than the traditional, full-vintage Jaguar – and the controls are friendlier! It’s just as comfortable as the original model, with a few other subtle improvements like nylon inserts in the bridge posts to help promote tuning stability, and Mustang style saddles rather than the original threaded-rod Jaguar saddles.

Rickenbacker 325 Conversion Fireglo, 1974 (consignment) SOLD

The Rickenbacker 325 is perhaps most famously associated with John Lennon on the Beatles tours and many albums and smash hit songs. The short scale and narrow neck allow a lot of complex chord shapes and fast changes.

This 1974 example is in good working order; it’s been played but not abused.

Ibanez Model 2471, 1976 No Longer Available

Ibanez produced a large number of good copies of popular brand guitars, and at their top end were renderings of the ‘Johhny Smith’ archtops. This 1976 example, the model 2471, is in good shape with a modification – the volume and tone controls, originally mounted on the pickguard, have been moved to the top.

Despite being a close copy, this is not what’s known as a ‘lawsuit’ model. The lawsuit was over Ibanez’ use of the open-book headstock shape, and by this time Ibanez had stopped using that design, opting for this shape which they still use.

This is a really, really nice instrument and is priced far below what it copies. We know of one top local jazz player who has used one of these for years.

Larrivee LSV-11 2006 (Consignment) – SOLD

This Larrivee LSV-11 features a larger nut width and a LR Baggs hex pickup, selling for $1945.

David Wren Concert ‘Sinker’ Redwood and Macassar, 2012 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a very lightly used Concert style guitar from David Wren, built during 2012, and featuring a ‘Sinker’ redwood top and Macassar ebony back and sides.

Double Neck Electric Sitar: David Hill & Brady Milloy

From the archives of our old site – “We need a sitar … a double neck actually … with humbucking pickups … and a Floyd Rose bridge … and it all has to function properly. We need some mock-up renderings by tomorrow and the finished product completed in the next couple of weeks.”

Mesa Boogie Mark 2B 81-83 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Sweet singing sustain and crunch awaits you with this Mesa Boogie Mark 2B, selling for $900.

GW Barry M CW 1997 (Consignment)

This GW Barry M CW guitar sounds awesome and is good overall shape, selling for $3700.

Larrivee A-33 Mandolin (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

If you are looking for an excellent mandolin at a great price, then the Larrivee A-33 Mandolin is the one for you.

Shyboy Flat Top Single Cut 2012 No Longer Available

Shyboy makes a line of guitars based on iconic pieces, but with many custom features and a very high build quality.

This Cardinal Red example is a flat-top single cut, with a bolt on maple/rosewood neck. The pairing of two bright humbuckers – the TV Jones Classic and Wizard Firebird pickups produce an interesting range of tones.

National Triolian Tricone 12-Fret 2011 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a find – a National Triolian Tricone, 12-fret neck, from 2010 in excellent condition. The Triolian was historically always a 12-frret model, but National now makes it in 14-fret (and baritone!) models too.

This example from 2010 is in great shape with only a few small scuffs on an edge or two. A very good deal for an outstanding instrument!

Taylor Custom GS Mahogany 2011 (Consignment)

Here is a stunning Taylor Custom GS Mahogany build for the 35th Anniversary of the 12fret, selling for $2500.

Suhr Standard 2007 (Consignment) No Longer Available

This beautiful Suhr Standard from 2007 sounds, looks and plays great for $2499.99

Eastwood Airline Tuxedo Sunburst 2011 SOLD

Here’s a near-mint Eastwood Airline Tuxedo Sunburst from 2011. Eastwood produces guitars based on a variety of 50’s and 60’s models that are really not availalbe otherwise.

The Airline Tuxedo is based on the Kay Barney Kessel guitar from the mid 1950’s. It’s really quite a good design, and this example is in exceptional condition.

Supro Sahara in Blue, 1965 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a really cool, and well preserved, Supro Sahara from 1965 in Blue Metalflake! These guitars are a lot of fun to play and are quite attractive.

Fender Precision Bass, 1978 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s an excellent condition Fender Precision Bass from 1978. The P-Bass is likely the most recorded instrument in history, and its portability and potential for volume is heavily responsible for how music is now presented. It’s been produced without break since 1951 and has remained a standard throughout.

Suhr Custom Standard 2011 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a wonderful looking Suhr Custom Standard with a flame maple cap and aged cherry burst for $2200.

Suhr Carve Top Standard 2001 (Consignment) No Longer Available

This Suhr Carve Top Standard has a beautiful quilt maple top and one piece birds eye maple neck selling for $3550.

Kay Hollowbody Bass Model K162 1957 (consignment) SOLD

Today we’re looking at a wonderful Kay Hollowbody Model K162 bass from 1957, in original condition. Kay introduced the Model K162 Bass in 1952 in response to Leo Fender’s 1951 Precision Bass, making it the second electric bass produced. The K162 was the first hollowbody bass produced, years before Gibson used the basses in their recently-purchased Epiphone line to enter the electric bass (EB) market.

This model became known as the “Howlin’ Wolf” bass because it was used by the Wolf’s bassist, Andrew “Blueblood” McMahon.

Harrison GB Custom Douglas Fir SOLD

Here is a stunning Harrison GB Custom Douglas Fir selling for $5495.

Thompson MP1 1997 (Consignment) No longer available

This Thompson MP1 flat top is in good overall shape and plays great. Selling for $1999.99

Guild X-160 B, 1994 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s an excellent condition Guild X-160 B from 1994. The X-160 is a hollow-body archtop made using maple and with a single venetian (rounded) cutaway, and the B stands for ‘Blonde’.

Fryette Boostassio Pedal Sale No Longer Available

Here is a high end Fryette Boostassio boost pedal on sale for $175

T Rex Tone Bug Overdrive and Distortion sale SOLD

Here are a couple of great T REX Tone Bug pedals on sale. The Overdrive and Distortion each $50

Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier Head 2004 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier 100 watt head in great shape selling for $950

Fender Stratocaster Hardtail 1979 SOLD

Fender produced the Stratocaster with two bridges, the iconic and very popular ‘synchronized tremolo’ bridge and the optional ‘hardtail’ fixed bridge. The hardtail model was never as popular as the trem model, and so there are a lot fewer of them around.

Fender Telecaster 1963 NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Here is a Fender Telecaster from 1963. It’s been refinished and some parts replaced but plays very well and is every inch a Tele.

Deering Boston 19-Fret Tenor Banjo 1999 SOLD

Today we have an excellent condition Deering Boston 19-Fret Tenor Banjo from 1999. There’s very little wear anywhere on the instrument. It’s lighter in weight due to the innovative steel rim construction that you can also find in the Deering Boston 5 string and Boston 6 string banjos. This steel rim creates excellent note distinction, clarity, and sparkling crispness making it one of the all time favorites.

Jarrell LP Custom (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a cool Jarrell LP Custom which features a figured maple veneer and three humbuckers. Selling for $450.

Dubosq OM Ziricote 2012 No Longer Available

This lovely Dubosq OM Ziricote is selling for $2999.

Epiphone Rivoli Bass, 1966 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a lovely 1966 Epiphone Rivoli bass. The Rivoli was introduced in 1959 and was extremely similar to Gibson’s EB-2. They were discontinued in the early 1960’s, but production started again in 1964 because these basses were favoured by many of the bands arriving in the US as part of the British Invasion.

BC Kingston Cutaway Acoustic 2012

Here’s a beautiful BC Kingston acoustic cutaway from the shop of Brian Kingston in PEI. Featuring a bearclaw sitka spruce top, Indian rosewood back and sides, sapele mahogany neck and Gabon ebony fingerboard, headcap and bridge, this guitar is stunning.

Goya F-27 Dreadnought 1960 SOLD

In 1960 the Goya guitar was the only affordable, well made guitar for “financially challenged” Canadian university students caught up in the folk music craze of the Hootenanny era.

Hames SLG 000 NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The Hames SLG 000 is a beautiful looking and sounding small body flat top selling for $1800

The Twelfth Fret Repair Shop: Setting up a Strat Trem, Part 3

We’re taking a tour of a Fender Stratocaster trem setup and now in Part 3, we’re going to go through the rest of the action adjustments. These adjustments are a normal part, but not all of a setup; for now we’re not going to look at the electronics.

Used Wah Pedals SOLD

Here is a variety of used Wah Pedals from Dunlop, Vox and Ernie Ball. Starting at $50, these make for a great Christmas gift!

Egnater Tourmaster 4100 Amplifier – SOLD

This 100 watt Egnater Tourmaster 4100 amplifier is really four amps in one and is on sale!

Egnater Renegade Head SOLD

Here is an Egnater Renegade Head which features 65 watts of power, two channels and a tube mix control. On sale for $849.

Schertler David Amp SOLD OUT

The Schertler David is a wonderful sounding acoustic amp on sale for $799. SOLD OUT

Martin Style 0 Soprano Ukulele, late 1940’s SOLD

Here’s a Martin Style 0 Soprano Ukulele from the late 1940’s – just post WW2. It’s had some repairs and is now ready for many more years of tonal adventures. Clear and crisp, Martin Ukuleles were among the best available.

National Style 3 Tricone Squareneck 1929 (Consignment)

Here’s an excellent-condition National Style 1 Tricone Squareneck from 1929. This is an early example of a production resophonic guitar – the first production took place in 1927. The resophonic instrument was invented in 1925 by John Dopyera at the request of George Beauchamp. Beauchamp was a promoter who found that as venues and audiences grew, so did volume levels and as amplification hadn’t been invented, many instruments were just not loud enough. The reso-phonic design is much louder.

Peavey EVH Wolfgang 1997 (Used) SOLD

Here is a really cool purple finish Peavey EVH Wolfgang in great overall shape. This particular example has been signed by Alex Lifeson but more importantly is has all the features to have you Running with the Devil in no time!

Fender Jazz Bass 1966 – Fretless Conversion (consignment) No longer available

Here’s a lovely Fender Jazz Bass from 1966, converted to fretless in 1985 by Joe Kovacic at Lado Guitars. This instrument has definitely been used as was intended, with the honest wear that implies.As people discovered the potential of the fretless sound – Pastorius in Weather Report probably had a lot to do with that – fretless conversions became popular for a few extra reasons. The conversion is fairly quick to do, not exceptionally expensive, and is usually reversible. The frets are removed, veneer is glued into the slots, the board is planed level and the action set low. The Twelfth Fret’s repair shop has done many of these conversions, in both directions.

Gold Tone Bob Carlin Signature Series BC-350 Plus Banjo

The Gold Tone Bob Carlin Signature Series BC-350 Plus Banjo is a work of art; an upgraded version in triple plated gold hardware and historic Orpheum style vintage inlay. As with the standard BC-350 model the Plus version uses a 12″ pot assembly, scooped ebony fingerboard, Bob Carlin neck profile and a nut width of 1-3/8”.

Fender Strat Custom Shop 1995 (Consignment) SOLD

This beautiful Fender Strat Custom Shop Carved top from 1999 is in excellent condition and selling for $1550.

Ramírez FL1 Flamenco Model Guitarras de Estudio

The FL-1 Flamenco model is the top “production” Flamenco model from Ramírez. Based on the of the professional 1a F656-A model developed by Jose Ramirez III, Amalia Ramirez created the FL-1 model as an affordably priced, all-solid-wood instrument for the Flamenco guitarist.

Seymour Duncan Twin Tube Mayhem Sale No Longer Available

The Seymour Duncan Twin Tube Mayhem is a great tube driven distortion pedal on sale for $75.

Fryette SigX Sale SOLD

The Fryette Sig X 100 watt head is a fire breathing high gain machine and is on sale for $1650.

Gibson LG-2 early 1950’s (consignment) SOLD

This early 1950’s LG-2 delivers that characteristic warm Gibson sound, and it’s a very comfortable guitar to play and listen to.

Kenneth Hill Signature Double Top Classical 2006 (consignment) SOLD

A beautiful Kenneth Hill Signature Double Top Classical, from 2006.

Beneteau 000-style 1991 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a lovely sounding 000 style guitar from Marc Beneteau selling for $3999.99

Larrivee L-04

The new Larrivee L-04 series features a high gloss top with a satin finish sides and back, Sitka spruce top and Indian rosewood sides and back. This guitar also features a lovely herringbone rosette and maple body binding for an elegant classic look.

Gibson A-4 Mandolin 1914 (consignment) Sold

Here’s a lovely Gibson A-4 Mandolin from 1914. This instrument is in good working order with some wear as expected on an instrument almost a century old! Tonally, it has a nice bite and lots of volume, and is lots of fun to play.

Fender Telecaster American modified 2006 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a nice American made Telecaster from Fenders 60th Anniversary year. Sells for $799.

Selmer Twin Selector Tone Amp (Consignment) – SOLD

Serial Number:… TS-1028 circa 1960’s Description:… Here is a cool earlier Selmer Selector Tone amp in a later Zodiac cabinet . It pushes 30 watts through two Goodman speakers and features multiple tone selector switches. The amp is in good overall condition and requires a step up transformer to 220 volts to operate. Pricing:… $1350.00 REDUCED You can preview our videos now on Our YouTube Channel! You can now Visit our Facebook page!

Beneteau Mini Jumbo 1991 (Consignment) No longer available

Here is a lovely sounding Mini Jumbo from Marc Beneteau selling for $3999.99

Martin D-18 1936 (consignment) SOLD

This is a very interesting example of a Martin D-18 from 1936. It’s an infrequent event for 1930’s D series Martins to come up for sale, so it’s always a pleasure to get one in.

Joshia de Jonge Classical 2007 (Consignment) SOLD

This amazing classical from Joshia de Jonge features European spruce and Brazilian rosewood and sells for $7500.

Maurer 593 Tree Of Life Parlor Guitar 1930 (consignment) SOLD

Maurer guitars were built by Larson brothers in Chicago. The 593 was the top of the line parlor guitar, and the tree of life was their most elaborate inlay. This is a very unusual guitar; not many were made and fewer survived.

Weber Hyalite Mandolin 2005 (consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely Weber Hyalite mandolin from 2005, dressed to the nines. It’s in great condition and plays well as is, with a full, warm,tone

PRS SC 245 Artist Package Sale SOLD

Companies have been producing single cutaway solidbody electric guitars for decades of course, but one look at this Single Cut 245 model from Paul Reed Smith and you just KNOW that this one is different.

Gibson Advanced Jumbo Luthiers’ Choice 2001 (consignment) No longer available

From the Gibson Custom Shop in Bozeman, Montana, comes an Advanced Jumbo in the Luthiers’ Choice series. Featuring a blend of Brazilian Rosewood, Adirondack spruce and mahogany, this guitar has a full, rich and commanding tone.

Taylor 814ce Ltd 2006 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is an awesome Taylor 814ce Ltd with Madagascar rosewood selling for $2700.

Beneteau OM Padouk 2011 (Consignment) No Longer Availble

This beautiful fingerstyle OM from Mark Beneteau looks, sounds and feels wonderful to play! Sells for $5999.99

SOLD Rickenbacker 360-6 Fireglo 2005 (consignment)

This 2005 example of the 360/6 looks like it came from the factory recently – it’s in excellent condition with no appreciable wear or finish damage. It even has the “Made in America” sticker on the pickguard. Being a 360, it’s also wired for Ric-O-Sound, allowing the use of a different amplifier or channel for each pickup.

Rickenbacker 360-6 Fireglo, 2005 (consignment)

This 2005 example of the 360/6 looks like it came from the factory recently – it’s in excellent condition with no appreciable wear or finish damage. It even has the “Made in America” sticker on the pickguard. Being a 360, it’s also wired for Ric-O-Sound, allowing the use of a different amplifier or channel for each pickup.

Collings DS-1A Adirondack 2008 (consignment) SOLD

This is a great deal on a near-mint condition DS-1A, the 12-fret slope shoulder dreadnought but with an Adirondack spruce top. This example is in such good condition and so much like a new that I’ve only taken a couple of photos

Gibson J-50 1950 (consignment) No Longer Available

The Gibson J-50 was introduced in 1945 as a variant of the successful J-45. The primary difference was the finish on the top! The J-50 has a natural finish and the J-45 is sunburst.

Taylor GS6E 2006 (Consignment) SOLD

Dig into the lovely big and bright tone of this 2006 Taylor GS6E selling for $1600.

Santa Cruz H13 2008 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a sweet small body H13 flat top from Santa Cruz. This guitar is in great shape and sells for $2799.

Traynor Signature YGA-1 Combo Amplifier 1966 (consignment) SOLD

Traynor amplifiers were one of the workhorses on the Canadian music scene from their introduction in 1963. Most serious players had at least one at some point. I think through my youth, just about every jam or band I saw had a Traynor involved somewhere, because they were and are high-quality, high-reliability, good sounding amps.

Marshall JCM2000 DSL50 half stack orange 2004 (Consignment) SOLD

A signed orange half stack from Marshall selling for $1599.

Keeley Fuzz Head pedal used SOLD

Here is a very cool fuzz pedal selling for $145 used!

Mesa Boogie Stiletto Ace Combo 2008 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is Mesa Boogie’s take on a classic British crunch! Sells for $1095.

Kala Mahogany Concert Cutaway Ukulele

Here’s a lovely little cutaway electric ukulele from Kala. Ukuleles are remarkably versatile – and portable! – instruments and this one would fit into many more musical situations.

The Windsor English Banjo Model No. 45A circa 1935 SOLD

This is a classic 5 string English banjo with 5th string tunnel in fully playable condition, built around 1935.

Harrison GB Custom Mahogany 2009 SOLD

This Harrison GB Custom Mahogany model by Doug Harrison has it all, top notch crafstmanship, excellent playability, great looks and killer tone! Sells for $3900.

Shark Tank Television Series Star Kevin O’Leary Featured At The Twelfth Fret

Recently, Grant MacNeill gave up his fretted instruments work bench for a morning of bright lights and camera work. The shop was used for a Harry Rosen men’s clothing campaign. Kevin O’Leary of “Shark Tank” television series, enjoyed his visit to the shop. The Twelfth Fret team has a blast watching the film crew at work.  

Musicman Axis Super Sport 2006 (Consignment) SOLD

Smooth playability, wicked good looks and versatile tone are up for grabs with this 2006 MusicMan Axis Super Sport! Sells for $1100.

DOS Ricky 330 2008 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a cool Korean made Rickenbacker 330 copy which is in great shape, priced really well and might even play better then some Rickenbackers! Sells for $499.

Wren Concert Brazilian 2010 (Consignment) SOLD

This Wren Concert Brazilian flat top is a simply stunning guitar! Sells for $4399.

Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean 1967 (consignment) No Longer Availble

The Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean, model 6119, was built from 1958 to 1980 as a lower-cost alternative to the Country Gentleman. and while it has always been a single cutaway guitar, in 1961 it thinned down about half an inch to its present profile.

Fender Jazzmaster 1964 (consignment) SOLD

Leo Fender intended the Jazzmaster to be a step up from the Stratocaster, aimed at the jazz guitar market and competing with hollowbody instruments. That’s not quite what happened, though..

Mesa Boogie Mark 2C late 80’s (Consignment) SOLD

Excellent crunch and sweet singing leads await with this Mesa Boogie Mark 2C. Sells for $1299.99

Dan Armstrong Ampeg Fretless Bass 1969 (consignment) No Longer Available

Tasked by Ampeg with improving their ‘Grammer’ guitars, the late Dan Armstrong produced a number of innovative designs using non-traditional materials. Perhaps the best remembered are the Plexiglass models; this is a fairly rare fretless version of his bass. it’s in good original condition and plays well.

No longer Available! Gibson ES-175 2007

The Gibson ES-175 is one of the classic working jazz archtops. Many players have sustained their careers with this instrument. This example from 2007 is in excellent condition and features nicely curled maple top, back and sides. A really classy guitar that would fit in anywhere.

PRS Mira 2008 SOLD

PRS guitars have become staples of the rock world. This is an excellent example of the Mira, based on the Les Paul Double Cutaway. As with all PRS production, there’s a high level of attention to detail, the contours are very comfortable, and overall the instrument rings and just really works well.

Larrivée D-03 R SOLD

Here’s an excellent condition Larrivée D-03R, just a few years old. It has the bottom end presence of a dreadnaught with the build quality and even tone of a Larrivée, at a great price!

Gibson Granada Mastertone Tenor Banjo 1984 (consignment) No Longer Available

In excellent condition, here’s a Gibson Granada Mastertone Tenor banjo from 1984! The gold plating shows hardly any wear.

Mesa Boogie Mark 1 modified combo late 70’s (SOLD)

Dive into the history of high gain with this Mesa Mark 1 modified combo amp! Sells for $799

Martin J-40 M 1988 SOLD

Here is a very cool Martin J-40 M that sounds and plays great for $1250.

Harrison GB Custom 2006 (Consignment) No Longer Available

If you are looking for the ultimate thin line jazz guitar the Harrison GB model deserves your attention! $3600

Gibson Acoustic Factory Tour 2012

Take a tour of the Gibson acoustic guitar factory in Bozeman Montana with the Twelfth Fret.

Victoria Victorilux amp (Consignment) No longer available

This Victoria Victorilux 45 watt amp borrows inspiration from the Fender and Blackface era amps and sells for $1799.99

Dr Z Maz 38SR 2011 (Consignment) SOLD

This cool 38 watt combo from Dr Z covers a tonal palate from mid 60’s Blackface to Uk flavored chime and sells at $1350.

James Frieson Flamenco Guitar, 1997 SOLD

Here’s a very nice Flamenco instrument by James Frieson.

Fender Precision Bass 1965 SOLD

One of the most brilliant of Leo Fender’s innovations, the Precicion Bass took the music world by storm and was the key element allowing radical changes in how music was presented (and how loud it could get).

Eric Pykala 1952 – 2012

Our sympathies to Paul Pykala and family for the sudden loss of their brother and uncle, Erik Pykala who passed away at his home in London, Ontario, Sept 24th, 2012

Lowden D32 (Consignment) SOLD

This Lowden D32 flat top has a loud and well balanced tone and is in great shape, selling for $1950.

PRS Custom 24 Ten top 2011 (Consignment) SOLD

This 25th anniversary PRS Custom 24 looks like a million bucks and plays like two million for only $2200!

Gibson J-45 Legend 2007 (Consignment) SOLD

This flat top is an exact recreation of the legendary slope shouldered guitar from its first year of production in 1942! Sells for $3500

Gibson ES-135 2002 (Consignment) SOLD

This ES-135 has a lovely looking Tobacco burst and added Bigsby to go along with its great playability and classic sound!! Sells for $1300

Gibson A-9 Mandolin 2008 SOLD

Here’s a great used and affordable Gibson A-9 mandolin from 2008, with a Fishman bridge pickup installed.

*NO LONGER AVAILABLE* Gibson CF-100E Reissues

Just in, and not readily available anywhere else – a pair of Gibson CF-100E reissues.

William Laskin Classical Guitar 1984 (consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely Laskin classical from 1984, for $4499. It’s in good shape; the guitar has been taken care of but also used as intended, so there are some small dings on the top and its voice has also developed.

Fender Bassman TV Duo Ten 2011 (consignment) SOLD

This 350 watt bass amp looks and sounds great on any stage, and the XLR line out provides access to the house system if you need more power and distribution. This example is in great shape.

Fender Telecaster 1978 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a nice Fender Telecaster from 1978. . Very light and comfortable, unlike many guitars from the 70’s when weight was widely considered a desirable trait leading to sustain and clarity. Lighter uitars like this one, though, still exhibit lots of those tonal characteristics.

Smith and Young Model 1 Resophonic 2011 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a great condition early Model 1 from the Smith & Young division of National ResoPhonic.

Gretsch G6122 Chet Atkins Country Gentleman 1967 (consignment) SOLD

And now, Live at The Twelfth Fret, and coming all the way from 1967, the Gretsch Chet Atkins Country Gentleman!

Fender Telecaster 52 Hot Rod 2008 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a Fender Telecaster 52 Hot Rod in great shape selling for $1200.

Larrivee L03 2000 (Consignment) SOLD

This Larrivee L03 is in great shape, has recently been refretted and comes with original hardshell case for $735.

Hofner 500/1 ‘Beatle Bass’ 1965 (consignment) No Longer Available

The Hofner 500/1 was catapulted to fame with the rise of The Beatles; it was Paul McCartney’s bass of choice for many years, thousands of shows and hundreds of recordings. It’s a very comfortable instrument to play, given its light weight, short scale and narrow neck.

Martin D-28 1950 (consignment) No Longer Available

Martin has produced the D-28 since 1934, and this is a great sounding and playing example from 1950.

Bourgeois Slope D Burst Sitka top (No Longer Available)

This Bourgeois Slope D has a beautiful burst finish on its Sitka spruce top and comes with the original hardshell case for $2999.99

Deering John Hartford left-handed banjo 2008 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a great-condition, left-handed Deering John Hartford banjo, now available for $1950 CAD including case!

Larrivee L03E 2009 (Consignment) SOLD

This 2009 Larrivee L03E has a well balanced voice and is in excellent shape, selling for $988.

Gibson Jumbo 35 1939 (consignment) SOLD

Guitars are wonderful as works of art, but equally fascinating is the story of their use. This 1937 Gibson J-35 is an authentic piece of Canadian musical history. It worked at a lot of shows and dances during the late 1930’s and 1940’s in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, and built a lot of character during that time.

Gianni Pedrini Angelo Classical Guitar 1998 SOLD

This Gianni Padrini Angelo guitar was made by a member of the Padrini family of luthiers, during 1998 in Italy. It’s in good playing condition, and has been professionally repaired and set up in our shop.

Fender American Design Stratocaster #1 and Telecaster #1 (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

Hand selected by the Twelfth Fret, custom built by Fender.

Santa Cruz Tony Rice Dreadnought Used SOLD

Here is a well used, awesome sounding Santa Cruz Tony Rice guitar selling for $2800.

Selmer Zodiac Twin Fifty 1963 (Consignment) SOLD

This Selmer Zodiac Twin Fifty combo from 1963 has seen some wear and tear but is in overall great shape and sells for $1599.

Collings SJ 2009 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a beautiful Collings SJ with figured maple in great shape selling for $2799.00.

Mesa Recto Verb 50 Combo circa 2000 (Consignment) SOLD

This Mesa Boogie Recto Verb 50 combo is in great overall condition and sells for $500.

Fender Deluxe Reverb 2011 Red (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a cool limited wine red Fender Deluxe Reverb from 2011 in excellent condition selling for $875.

Gibson ES-330 TD 1967 (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson ES-330 was introduced in 1959 to replace the ES-225,and is cousin to the Epiphone Casino, famously used by John Lennon on many Beatles recordings. The ES-330 was discontinued in 1972, but is available again as a Gibson Custom Shop piece.

National Vintage Tricone in Steel 2008 SOLD

Here’s a National Vintage Tricone in steel powder finish from 2008, in excellent condition. Priced at $1789 with Deluxe National case.

Fender Stratocaster ‘1962 Vintage Reissue’ 2011 SOLD

From 2011, here’s a Fender Vintage Reissue 1962 Stratocaster in amazingly clean condition; even the case candy looks untouched. The guitar plays perfectly, too!

Godin LGXT AAA 2007 (Consignment) SOLD

This Godin LGXT AAA is in great shape and features loads of tonal versatility for $1399.99

(Discontinued) Taylor Baritone Grand Symphony Mahogany 6 String

Check out the lush sonic cocktail of the Taylor Baritone Grand Symphony Mahogany 6 String!

Fender Bandmaster ‘Blackface’ amp 1964 (consignment) SOLD

The Fender Bandmaster was produced, in various forms, from 1953 to 1974. Output ranged from around 25 watts at first, to 40 watts. Originally a combo, the piggyback head-and cabinet design appeared in 196i, and this configuration is used for most professional grade, higher powered amps to this day.

Gibson ES-175D 1960 (consignment) SOLD

This is a fantastic example of a 1960 Gibson ES-175 D. Gibson began production of the ES-175 in 1949 as a mid-price, laminate alternative to the L-5. In 1953, the D model was introduced, featuring two pickups, and in 1957, the new PAF humbucking pickups started appearing on production models.

Guild X-500 Archtop 1992 (consignment) SOLD

The Guild guitar company made many excellent archtops. This is perhaps not surprising for a company formed by former craftsmen at Epiphone, for decades the premiere builder of archtops. This 1992 example of the X 500 is an outstanding instrument in pristine condition.

Gibson J-45 1956 (consignment) No Longer Available

The Gibson J-45 is one of the classic standard guitars for North American music styles, and has been a favourite since its introduction in 1942. With a fuller, warmer midrange tone than equivalent square-shoulder dreadnaughts, the J-45 sits perfectly in the rhythm slot for many tunes.

G.W. Barry Classical 1996 (Consignment) SOLD

This may be the only G.W. Barry Classical guitar out there! This wonderfully lush sounding classical features the oh so comfortable Laskin style arm rest and is in excellent overall shape with only some minor cosmetic wear marks and dings. Comes with a black hardshell case.

Fox Custom Strat (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a beautiful strat style hand made guitar from Dave Fox! Sells for $2199.

Rickenbacker 330/12 MapleGlo 1997 (consignment) SOLD

Rickenbacker builds some of the most attractive and ‘non standard’ shape guitars around. The 330 shape is one of my favourite – swooping cutaways and yet tasteful dramatic lines. This beautiful example is in near-perfect condition.

Fender Telecaster 1966 (consignment) SOLD

The Telecaster has been in production for nearly 60 years, and there are good reasons for that. It is a model of design for functionality, it’s incredibly durable, it looks good and sounds great, and fits into almost any musical style.

Gretsch Electromatic G5422TDC: The Cherry Blossom

We are lucky enough to have received one of these very special limited edition guitars from Gretsch – the Gretsch Electromatic G5422TDC “Cherry Blossom”. This double-cutaway hollow body has all the chime, twang, and crunch that a Gretsch-lover could want, thanks in no small part to the Black Top FilterTron pickups: a new addition to the Electromatic line.

G.W. Barry OM Koa

A beautiful new Koa Orchestra Model guitar from GW Barry, with a video demonstration by Dave Martin.

Gibson Les Paul Studio 1995 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a Gibson Les Paul Studio from 1995 in a black finish that has some cosmetic wear and tear and is selling for $899.00

Fender Telecaster 1966 (consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely blonde 1966 Telecaster. It’s in overall quite good shape; original parts are included. Priced at $7999.99 CAD with case.

Rickenbacker 370 1973 (consignment) SOLD

This Rickenbacke 370 model – the three-pickup version of the 360 – dates from October 1973, is in good condition and ready to play. Priced at $1800 CAD.

Fender Guitar Factory Tour

Nevin Douglas of the Twelfth Fret takes a tour of the Fender guitar factory in Corona California!

Mesa Boogie Subway Rocket 1990’s (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a awesome little 20 watt Class A/B combo from Mesa Boogie! It is in great shape and sells for $650.00

Ibanez USA Custom 1989 (Consignment) SOLD

This US made custom Ibanez guitar features a unique road scene graphic on a blue finish, the Wizard neck and original Edge tremolo. Comes with original hardshell case.

SOLD!!! Duesenberg Mike Campbell Starplayer 2011 (Consignment)

Who needs a muscle car when you can get this awesome looking Hot Rod style Duesenberg Mike Campbell signature model. This guitar was built for Mike Campbell to help commemorate the 13th year of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. This guitar is in excellent condition and ready to rock! Comes with the original Duesenberg hardshell case.

G&L ASAT Custom Hollowbody 2003 (Consignment) SOLD

his semi hollow body G&L has a lovely looking Quilt maple top and is in great shape with very little wear and tear. Comes with original G&L hardshell case.

Fender Telecaster 60th Diamond Anniversary 2006 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a cool Telecaster from Fender’s 60th Anniversary in 2006. It is in great condition and sells for $1199.99

PRS Mira 2008 Used SOLD

Here is a great smaller and lighter PRS solid body with a nice variety of tones available through the humbuckers which can be coil tapped. This guitar is in good overall condition with very little fret wear and only some minor cosmetic wear and tear. Comes with original hardshell case.

Larrivee L09 2010 (Consignment) SOLD

This guitar is used? I had to look twice because this one is as clean as a whistle!! The Larrivee L body may be one of the most well balanced sounding flat tops on the market today and can be used for a variety of different styles. Comes with original Larrivee hardshell case.

Larrivee L09 1995 (Consignment) SOLD

This Victoria BC era Larrivee L09 is in great overall shape with only minor cosmetic wear and tear. It has a very well balanced tone with lovely sustain and overtones. The added Ibeam pickup has you gig ready and the upgraded bone saddle helps improve sustain and tone production. Comes with original Larrivee hardshell case.

Sadowsky NYC Five String Bass (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a lovely Sadowsky Five string bass in great shape selling for $3650.

Suhr Standard 2006 (Consignment) SOLD

This Suhr standard features a stunning Quilted maple cap and matching headstock overlay, the neck plays really fast and the guitar is in excellent overall condition with very little wear and tear. This guitar is a rock machine!!

Fender Esquire 1957 (consignment) SOLD

The Esquire was introduced in 1950, prior to the Broadcaster (which became the NoCaster, then the Telecaster). The guitars are nealy identical; the primary difference is the lack of neck pickup. The Esquire has the 3-way switch, and the ‘neck’ position adds in capacitors to simulate the less-trebly sound of the missing pickup.

Harrison Neo Jazz NJ17 SOLD

The beautiful Harrison Neo Jazz NJ17 archtop guitar from builder Douglas Harrison is a must have for any archtop or Jazz enthusiast!

William Laskin Flamenco Guitar 2012 SOLD

rom William Laskin, This is a brand new Flamenco instrument, specifically made for Jesse Cook. Jesse Cook has played a Laskin Flamenco Negra in performance for many years.This on-going collaboration with Jesse inspired Grit to build Jesse another guitar; after years of dreaming about getting a Flamenco Blanca Laskin into Jesse’s hands, Grit finally managed to find the time to build one.

Gretsch Electromatic 5420T

Gretsch has taken their popular electromatic series and updated them with new and improved pickups, inlays, and finishes. The Gretsch Electromatic 5420T shows off an Aspen Green finish!

Hagstrom Super Swede 1980 (consignment) SOLD

Despite their quality, Hagstrom guitars were never common in North America, and the Super Swede is one of the hardest to find. The Super Swede (originally called the Swede DeLuxe) was built from 1976 until Hagstrom ceased production in 1983, unable to compete with lower-priced instruments built in Asia. The Super Swede features maple construction with ebony fingerboard, and the tone is crisp and clear with lots of sustain and definition.

Ibanez George Benson GB10 Sunburst – 1984 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a mid 80’s Ibanez George Benson model – the GB10 – with some minor wear selling for $2250.

Three Danelectros SOLD

Originally, from 1934 to 1946, Nathan Daniel built amplifiers for Epiphone. In 1947 Danelectro was founded and built amplifiers for companies like Montgomery Ward, Sears&Roebuck and Targ&Dinner. The first Danelectro guitars were made in 1954 for Sears under the Silvertone name, and featured solid poplar bodies and neck stiffening rods instead of adjustable truss rods.

Soldano SL0100 2010 (Consignment) No longer available

The Soldano SLO100 is the players choice for rock, metal and electric blues. Sells for $2799 and is in great shape!

Fox Jumbo Sunburst 2012 (No Longer Available)

A wonderful new Jumbo steel-string acoustic guitar from Canadian luthier Dave Fox – $3500.

Eastman Pagelli PG-2 Left Handed 2010 (consignment) SOLD

Left-handed instruments are hard enough to find – just try to find a left-hand archtop cutaway jazz guitar – wait, here’s an excellent one! Featuring the distinctive, offset Pagelli body plus carved solid (not laminate) spruce top and heavily-flamed back.

Gibson F-2 Mandolin 1908 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a lovely three-point Gibson F-2 mandolin from 1908. It’s in overall good condition with an excellent tone and action.

Fryette SigX In stock Now! No Longer Available

Over a year ago, I got a chance to do a few shows with an artist doing some showcases down south. We were given a rider and my wishes for my backline were either my trusted, tried and true Koch Powertone head and cab or a similar set-up by VHT, preferably in the Pitbull line.

Rickenbacker 360/12 C63 2010 (consignment) SOLD

The 360/12 C63 is a reproduction of the first Rickenbacker 12-string presented to George Harrison in 1963. You may recall seeing that guitar on the ‘A Hard Day’s Night’ LP jacket!

Martin 0-15 1959 (consignment) SOLD

Here is a great-sounding 1959 Martin 0-15 guitar. It has had repairs over its life, but is structurally sound and a really nice fingerstyle guitar.

Fender Telecaster 1978 Natural (Consignment) No longer available

Here’s a very cool Fender Telecaster from 1978, in a natural finish.

Mesa Boogie Blue Angel Combo late 90’s (Consignment) No Longer Available

This Mesa Boogie Blue Angel combo from the late 90’s is in excellent condition and sells for $1299.

Swart Atomic Spacetone Master 2011 (Consignment) SOLD

With a name like the Atomic Spacetone Master how could you not love this point to point hand wired,  tweed covered amp!

Mesa Boogie Lonestar Special 112 2006 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is an awesome two channel Class A combo amp from Mesa Boogie! This EL84 based amp features attenuated wattage switchable from 30/15 or 5 watts going through a Celestion designed Black Shadow 12″ speaker.

SOLD!!! Seagull Maritime SWS Folk High Gloss

Presenting the Seagull Maritime SWS Folk. High gloss finish, all solid woods, made in Canada, and a selling price under $700… what more could you ask for?!

Fender Precision Bass refinished 1968 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a nicely refinished 1968 Fender Precision Bass. There have been lots of good reasons to refinish an old instrument, and this one was done professionally without significantly altering the edges or contours. The DiMarzio pickup was likely installed in the late 70’s or early 80’s for a punchier tone. This bass plays well, sounds and looks great.

Larrivee OM-60 2004 (consignment) SOLD

Here is a very clean Larrivée OM-60, a traditional Orchestra Model, from 2004. It has the even response the OM design provides, and the smaller (than a dreadnaught!) body size is very comfortable.

Mesa Boogie Mark 1 Reissue Mid 2000’s (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a beautiful white tolex Mesa Boogie Mark 1 Reissue from Mesa in excellent condition! It features two volumes and one master volume, treble, bass, and middle controls, 100/60 watt selector, “tweed” power option for a saggier sound, reverb and presence controls on the back pannel, single 12″ Mesa Black Shadow speaker. Relive the beginning of modern high gain tone with this very cool reissue amp!

Rivera Fifty Five Twelve combo 1990’s (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a very nice portable 112 combo from Rivera. It has 55 watts of class AB power, two channels with boost options, patented Ninja boost, FX loop and a footswitch. This amp has a killer overdrive and great clean headroom!!

National Triolian with Bakelite Neck 1929 (consignment) SOLD

Bakelite-neck nationals were made from about February 1929 to August 1930 for a production total of around 1800 instuments. They are rare, for a couple of reasons. First, they weren’t made for long because Bakelite turned out to be less stable than the designers hoped, even with a steel rod inserted on later models and the experiment was discontinued.

Rickenbacker 360/12 MapleGlo 2009 (consignment) SOLD

This is a beautiful condition MapleGlo (meaning clear gloss, natural lacquer finish) 360/12, with huge amounts of chime. In excellent shape, it’s been set up and it’s ready to go.

Valley Arts Custom Pro (consignment) SOLD

Valley Arts guitars were originally produced in Los Angeles, with the first model appearing around 1977 and demand from top west coast musicians requiring rapid growth. Unfortunately a 1990 arson at the shop next door to their retail location caused the Valley Arts company significant damage, and in 1992 Samick bought a 50% stake and assumed production.

Rickenbacker 360/12 FireGlo 1991 (consignment) SOLD

The Rickenbacker 12 is an instantly recognisable guitar, even if you can’t see it. This 1991 360/12 is in excellent condition and I must say that the very rounded top corners are very comfortable.

Eminence Portable Upright Bass 2005 (consignment) SOLD

An upright bass has a unique tone and presence but can be challenging (and expensive) to transport.The Eminence (or ‘Gelbass’) bass design by Gary Bartig addresses this issue by making the neck easily removable; the instrument and stand fit into the golf club flight case, avoiding airline oversize charges or fitting into many cars.

Gibson ES-125 TDC 1967 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a good-condition Gibson ES-125 TDC from 1967.

Fender Jazz Bass 1965 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a great condition L-series 1965 Fender Jazz Bass. The Jazz Bass has been in continuous production, with some variations, since its introduction in 1960. This version has individual volume controls and one tone control, and was built just prior to the shift to block position markers and bound fingerboard.

Mack Amps Skyraider 30E Quad – SOLD

Here is a Mack Skyraider 30E Quad. A 30-watt all-tube amp built by Mack Music Systems in Richmond Hill, Ontario.

National Vintage Steel Tricone 2008 SOLD

Here’s a near-mint National Vintage Steel Tricone from 2008. The powder plating is really quite attractive, and it sounds just great.

National ‘Sears and Roebuck’ Duolian 1931 (consignment) SOLD

National built instruments for Sears and Roebuck only during 1931. These models are distinctive as made for Sears and Roebuck because the coverplate has five vented section instead of nine, and the serial number contains an ‘R’ – stamped on the top of the head.

Sneak Preview – GW Barry Guitars for the Montreal Guitar Show

This weekend, the Montreal Guitar Show runs once again. We’ve already got feature on it, but this morning we took a few photos of two of the guitars G W Barry is taking to the show and we’d like to share them with you.

Martin T-18 Tiple 1923 SOLD

Tiples were popular in the early part of the 20th century, into the 1930’s. This example, adapted from the South American instrument, is 17″ scale, and 8 15/16″ wide. Strung in four courses, with the outside two having two strungs and the center two with three and is tuned like a ukulele.

Supro Dual-Tone 1959 SOLD

Supro guitars and amps were made by Valco, as one of a range of brand names including Oahi, National, and Airline. This great-condition 1959 example has been refretted but is otherwise original and is in great playing order.

Hofner Contemporary Club Bass No Longer Available

We’ve just received a few new pieces from Hofner, including this Club Bass from the Contemporary series. We make two slight modifications – we restring them with LaBella flats for a more authentic ‘Beatley’ sound, and replace the stock knobs with the much classier ‘teacup’ style.

Collings D-1 2001 SOLD

Here’s a Collings D-1 that’s been played for over ten years but carefully maintained. It’s been cleaned up and ready for another ten years of great tone!

(Discontinued) Gretsch Chet Atkins Country Gentleman G6122 1958

A reproduction of Chet Atkin’s Country Gent from 1958, this Gretsch Chet Atkins Country Gentleman G6122 is a wonderful guitar with plenty of clarity, separation, sustain and feedback rejection. And it’s one of the classiest guitars you’ll see.

Guild Masteramp 60 1955 (consignment) SOLD

Here’s a very cool and rare mid-50’s Guild Masteramp 60. Guild wasn’t known as much for amps as Fender or Gibson were, but made a lot of great units. This example is in good condition though the trem is not working. The Masteramp line included the 60 with a 12″ speaker, and the 110 with a 15″ speaker.

Gibson Les Paul ’56 Reissue Custom Shop 2008 (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a Custom Shop Les Paul, a ’56 reissue with P-90s. *This* is what the Les Paul is about!

NO LONGER AVAILABLE!!! Gibson Les Pauls at The Twelfth Fret

Recently we took some photos of a number of in-stock new Les Paul, SG and Explorer models, and we thought we’d post them without much comment. Contact us if you see anything you like!

Gibson SGs and Explorers at The Twelfth Fret

Recently we took some photos of a number of in-stock new Les Paul, SG and Explorer models, and we thought we’d post them without much comment. Contact us for details!

Martin and Coupa Guitar 1840’s SOLD

This 160 year old masterpiece is truly a piece of history: a Martin & Coupa circa 1840, hand made by C.F. Martin himself!

Gibson B. B. King ‘Lucille’ 2003 (consignment) SOLD

The Gibson B. B. King Lucille guitar was built to address the stage requirements of one of Blues music’s most popular artists. Based on the ES-355, it is Semi-hollow to provide resonance and the distinctive rounded tone, but sealed to provide feedback rejection. This example is in good playing condition and is ready for many more years of work.

Gretsch White Falcon G6136DC

The White Falcon is an iconic Gretsch and for many years were quite rare. This is an example of an updated design, sharing an eminently practical feature with the Country Gentleman II where the neck joint is considerably shorter. $3095 CAD with case.

SOLD OUT Egnater Tweaker 40

I’m a huge fan of the original Egnater Tweaker amp, so I was very pleased to see that Egnater has left the original control layout virtually untouched. Functionally, the Tweaker 40 works like having 2 Tweaker 15 amps stuffed into a single chassis.

G.W. Barry Concert “Titan” Custom Cutaway SOLD

Someone once told me that a great luthier is like a great chef: they are all exceptionally skilled and at the top of their game,  you just have to find the right recipe for you taste buds. To my ears nobody has a better sonic stew then G.W. Barry.

Gretsch 6120 BK 2011 (consignment) SOLD

The classic Gretsch 6120 is orange, in various shades of faded. But this 6120 looks so good with the gold hardware and white binding on black, that black just has to be the new orange. Sold at $1699 CAD.

Collings 290 DCS 2011 (consignment) No Longer Available

Collings produces uniformly excellent instruments. This example is based on the Les Paul Junior appearance, but with significant improvements in materials and construction. It’s in very clean condition and is just a beautiful, great sounding guitar.

Egnater Tweaker NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The Egnater Tweaker is a 15 Watt tube amp, available as a head or 1×12 combo, and it has taken the world by storm. The beauty of this amp lies in its simplicity: a single channel design with Bass, Middle, Treble, Gain, and Volume controls. Look a little closer however, and the Tweaker offers a world of tonal customizations…. all of it useful.

SOLD!!! Stelling Sunflower Banjo

Here we have the Stelling Sunflower Banjo, another superb example of Geoff Stelling’s superb craftsmanship and creativity. Based on the very successful Stelling Bellflower Banjo , the Stelling Sunflower banjo features AAA-grade flame maple construction rather than Virginia Black Walnut.

❌SOLD❌ Fender Robben Ford Model,1993

The Fender Robben Ford Model was produced in Japan from 1987 to 1993 and were based on the Esprit Ultra.This example is from near the end of production and features a chambered mahogany, rather than alder body. The next year, production resumed in the US Custom Shop, with the mahogany body but without the chambering. The last models were built in 2002.

VOX Mark VI 1965 (consignment) SOLD

The Vox Mark VI was introduced in 1963, with 6 and 12 string versions and the bass made famous by Bill Wyman; it was . This example is in excellent, original condition and includes strap and Vox polishing cloth.

Montreal Guitar Show 2012

Every year, the Salon de Guitare de Montreal (Montreal Guitar Show) gives thousands of musicians the chance to treat their eyes and ears the latest and greatest creations from over 130 of the finest luthiers in the world. This prestigious gathering showcases one of most impressive collections of handmade guitars and gives new and establish luthiers the chance to put their talents on display.

Stelling Red Fox Banjo 2012

This is a beautiful Stelling Red Fox banjo, a brand new model, with Stelling’s unique bronze ‘Wedge Fit’ tone ring fitted to a Tony Pass ‘Lost Timbre’ block rim. The Red Fox inlay on the headstock is really quite fetching.

Ibanez Model 2461BS ‘Johnny Smith’ 1975 (consignment) SOLD

Ibanez started making copies of North American instruments like the Johhny Smith archtop in the early 1970’s, but before long, lawsuits were threatened.

Balkan Brac John Bencic Cleveland 1920’s SOLD

The label reads: “First and Oldest Mfr of Musical Insts. John Bencic 1317 1/2 E 41st Street Cleveland Ohio”

The Brac, used throughout the Balkan countries is the bigger brother to the Tamburitza or Prim. Roughly the size of a small guitar it has a similar tone and voice to the Celtic Bouzouki.

We are estimating that this lovely instrument was built in the 1920’s.

Ludwig ‘The Ace’ Tenor Banjo 1932 No Longer Available

Beautiful Ludwig Ace top-tension plectrum banjo. Gold-plated metalwork, including pancake tuners and original tailpiece. Marquetry all over rim and resonator. The Ace model was the middle of the Ludwig line, but might have been the most aesthetically pleasing of the lot — fancier than the “plain Jane” Kingstons, Bellevues, etc., but more tasteful/less gaudy than the Chiefs, etc. This one has a beautiful clear tone. Now dated to 1932.

Henner Hagenlocher Classical, 2011 (consignment) No longer available

This beautiful instrument is from the shop of Henner Hagenlocher in Granada. Hagenlocher studied in Hamburg under Michael Wichmann in the early 1990’s, and moved to Granada in 1996. This excellent condition example is from 2011 and features spruce top and African Blackwood. It plays well with a full tone, reminiscent of Brazilian-rosewood guitars.

Gibson J-200M Trophy 75th Anniversary (NO LONGER AVAILABLE)

These two spectacular Gibson J-200M Trophy 75th Anniversary models are part of a limited run of 75 instruments, made in Bozeman, Montana and celebrating the 75th anniversary of the J-200. Introduced in 1937 for Ray Whitely, the J-200 shot to the top of the shelf for country and movie performers. It’s also been used on many classic rock recordings.

Taylor Baritone 8 String Mahogany SOLD

If you are looking for something a little different to broaden your tonal horizons, then the Taylor GS 8 string Baritone is for you! This uniquely voiced instrument features the Taylor Grand Symphony body shape, Mahogany top,  sides and back, 27″ scale length and 8 strings tuned B E A D F# B with additional octave strings on the A and D.

Hammertone Mandotar 1998 (consignment) SOLD

Hammertone instruments are built in George Furlanetto’s workshop in Hamilton, Ontario. The Mandotar was discontinued some years ago but really work well for a variety of purposes. Lots of very full chimey sounds, much like a mandolin but with all the options of a 12-string guitar. The strings load half from the back of the guitar, and half from the back of the bridge.

Stelling Golden Cross Banjo 1978 (consignment) SOLD

his is an excellent-condition 1978 Stelling banjo. This banjo has no issues with projection – you’re going to hear it.

Harrison GB Blister 2011 SOLD

Exceptional craftsmanship, amazing wood sets, impressive attention to detail, amazing playability, this is what you get with a Harrison GB guitar!! This example from last year is in excellent shape with hardly any play wear. Comes with original hardshell case.

Collings MF5 F-style Mandolin SOLD

This spectacular F-style mandolin comes from the top of the line at Collings.

Gibson Custom 1965 Firebird V Reissue SOLD

Firebirds are iconic guitars and sound even better than they look. Gibson recently sent us three instruments in Pelham Blue, and this is the first to be featured.

PRS Custom 22 Amber 1999 (Consignment) SOLD

Well this is one heck of a buy for a great guitar!! This beautiful amber finish PRS is in excellent shape, plays really well and comes with the original hardshell case and all the case candy!

Greenfield Strat 1990 (Consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

Now commonly know for his outstanding acoustic guitars here is a rare solid body strat style guitar from builder Michael Greenfield. It has a very unique look with its trans green finish on the maple cap.

PRS Custom 22 Slate Black Ten top 1994 (Consignment) SOLD

This slate black Custom 22 has a very nice looking 10 top flame maple cap to top off the elegant body shape, versatile tones and excellent playability on this very cool guitar. It is in excellent shape with very little play wear and comes with the original PRS hardshell case!!

Lowden 010 1999 (Consignment) SOLD

Here is a lovely cedar topped Lowden with mahogany sides and back. This warm and sweet guitar is great of fingerstyle and open tunings. It is in great overall shape with only minor play wear and comes with the original Lowden Hiscox case.

PRS CE24 Trem 1998 (Consignment) SOLD

This discontinued bolt on neck version of the famous custom 24 from PRS is in fantastic condition, plays really well and has a great looking slate black finish to go with the tightly flamed maple cap!! Comes with the original PRS hardshell case.

Fender P-Bass ’59 NOS’ 2008 (consignment) No Longer Available

The Precision Bass took the world by storm when it was introduced in 1951, and while it’s been continuously produced since then, there’s been only two major revisions. The first was 1957, when the split humbucking pickup was introduced and 1959 when the rosewood fingerboard was added. This 1959 NOS example includes all the case candy and certificate of authenticity.

❌SOLD❌ Fender Telecaster With Parsons-White B Bender, 2006

This is one neat little machine! Pitch changing opportunities abound here – the Keith tuners let you change tunings nearly instantly, and the B-bender works really well.The unit installed on this guitar is Gene Parson’s ‘Long Stroke’ version, which raises the B string a whole tone.The Parsons-White string bender is a bit of genius design; you don’t have to take your hands off the strings.

Taylor 12 Fret Mahogany SOLD

Today we are featuring the latest addition to the popular 12-fret Grand Concert guitars from Taylor.  The mahogany back and sides provide even more sweet and full midrange to the already  huge tone coming from this small guitar!

Collings MT Left Handed 2008 (consignment) No Longer Available

Here’s a left-handed Collings MT in great condition. It’s been well looked after, and is really opening up as instruments do if they are played.

Rickenbacker 4001 Bass 1976 (consignment) SOLD

Rickenbacker basses (and guitars) have always been sought after, but the company has never tried to grow to the size of Fender or Gibson, intstead keeping their production in their plant and doing a lot of hand work. This example, unlike many, is in original condition; many of these basses were modified to accept heavier bridges.

Martin D-18 Authentic 2006 (consignment) No Longer Available

This is an excellent condition D-18 Authentic, modelled afer a 1937 model. It’s got just a massive sound with undeniable presence, full bass, sparkling trebles and everything in between. This is a seriously good sounding guitar.

Celtic Cross Weissenborn style Baritone 2004 SOLD

We regularly have Weissenborn style instruments come through, but this is the first baritone I’ve seen. Well made, with a very full, rich sound. Baritone instruments really grab sonic attention, and the hollowneck design is very resonant.

Gibson Les Paul Traditional 2010 (Consignment) No Longer Available

he Traditional …. the classic solid non chambered Les Paul with 57 Classic humbuckers! This guitar practically commands you to rock out!! This example is in excellent shape and comes with the original Gibson hardshell case.

Gibson Songbird Deluxe 12 String 1999 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Fill out those strummed chords with this big sounding Deluxe 12 string from Gibson. The typical woody Gibson midrange blends well with the darker sounding Indian rosewood sides and back and the jangle of the paired strings. This example is in good overall condition and comes with the original Gibson hardshell case!

Deering Vega Bluegrass Wonder Banjo SOLD

This Deering-built Vega ‘Bluegrass Wonder’ was a custom order. These are the lightest professional-grade resonator banjos available, with a bright warm tone for historic fingerstyle or bluegrass.

Vega No.2 Banjo 1930’s with replica neck – SOLD

Here is a very nice openback banjo based on a 1930’s Vega No.2 tone ring and hardware.To the untrained eye, the neck looks “period” or “original” but is actually more elaborately inlaid than the original Tenor neck would have been …that said, a great way to get a “historic” banjo without paying the premium of a true vintage instrument.

Hartman Frailing Banjo with Dobson style tone ring 2011 SOLD

Anne Hartman builds banjos and guitars in the Toronto area and is quickly establishing herself as a respected luthier. This is a wonderful example of her work, and is built around a rare, vintage-style component – a nickel-plated brass Dobson-style tone ring (made by Rickard).

Martin 000-28 1996 (Consignment) SOLD

This Martin 000-28 is in very nice condition with only a bit of lacquer checking and some minor dings on the top. Sounds great, plays well and is really for gigs with the installed passive piezo pickup. Comes with the original hardshell case.

Larrivee D-03R 2006 (Consignment) SOLD

Well balanced tone, excellent quality and playability are hallmarks of Larrivee guitars and this D03R is no exception. This example is in excellent overall condition and plays really well. Comes with the original Larrivee hardshell case!

Martin M-38 1980 (Consignment) NO LONGER AVAILABLE

The M body shape from Martin provides a bit more volume and bass response than a typical OM or 000. This example is in decent shape and comes with an older arched top hardshell case.
Note: Borderline neck set: plays fine in lower positions but action measures 6/64 treble to 8/64 bass side…on the high side with little remaining saddle for adjustment.

Vega Folklore 22-fret Banjo 1968 SOLD

Here’s a 1968 Vega Folklore banjo in great condition. Folklore banjos were a very popular, affordable banjo model in the 50’s and 60’s. They aren’t extremely bright and have decent bass.

Fender Blackface Tremolux amp 1966 (consignment) No Longer Available

Here we have a 1966, CBS-era blackface Tremolux head with the original 2×12 cabinet. The Tremolux was introduced in 1955 as a 15-watt amp with 6V6 tubes, and as a 35-watt amp with 6l6’s was discontinued in summer 1966.

Collings D1 German spruce top 2007 (Consignment) – No Longer Available

This Collings D1 German Spruce top from 2007 is an amazing flat picker and sells for $2599.00.

Laskin Steel String 1988 (Consignment) No Longer Available

Here is a beautiful flat top from William Laskin from 1988 selling for $3999 in very good condition.

Hofner Model 191 Doubleneck 1962 SOLD

Hofner made a lot of popular instruments in the late 50’s and early ’60’s. This is a rare example of their doubleneck 191 model. It’s recently been overhauled in our shop and looks great, plays well, and has that early ’60’s sound.

Carvin 12-string Electric Left-Handed 2011 (consignment) – SOLD

Carvin has made custom guitars and amps for quite some time. This recent left-handed 12, in near mint shape, is an excellent example of their build quality

65 Amps Stone Pony 2010 (consignment) No Longer Available

This excellent condition amp is switchable between 25 and 50 watts. 65 Amps was started by Peter Stroud, guitarist for Cheryl Crow, and Dan Boul, responding to a need for lower stage volume levels; they needed pro-grade lower wattage amps with ‘vintage’ tone. Using custom hand-wound transformers from Mercury Magnetics, top-grade hand-selected components and built to military grade specifications.

Douglas Harrison GB Model Guitar: Sound Samples and Photo Gallery

Today we are featuring 2 wonderful samples featuring the GB model guitar from luthier Douglas Harrison. These 2 videos feature photos of several of Harrison’s recent GB models, as well as music from the Canadian Jazz Quartet’s recording called “Brazilian Reflections”. The album was released in 2011 and features Gary Benson (guitar), Frank Wright (vibes), Duncan Hopkins (bass), and Don Vickery (drums).

Ramirez Flamenco Blanca – Model 2a Professional 1977 SOLD

This guitar came to us 9 months ago in very sorry condition. Frets and fretboard, neck finish and Golpé plate showed many thousands of hours of playing time: “honest wear-and-tear” from a full life of making music.

Sterling by Music Man JP100 John Petrucci SOLD

The JP100 is based on the “Ball Family Reserve” JP6. The slightly larger body is capped with a figured, quilted maple top & a transparent black or three tone sunburst finish. The JP100 is a modern shredders dream guitar that offers classy appointments with sleek modern styling. Comes with a padded gig bag.

Turner Model T 1997 (consignment) SOLD

The Turner Model T is oriented towards electric bottleneck players. It’s got a distinctive shape, a unique double-horsehoe pickup reminiscent of vintage steels, and you can bypass the controls to get just the pickup signal to the amp.

Nechville Banjo Clinic at the Twelfth Fret: Tuesday May 1

We are thrilled to welcome Tom Nechville back for another of his incredible clinics on Tuesday May 1 2012. Bring your banjos…all of them…for Tom’s free adjustments and setup advice.

Gibson B-25N 1967 – SOLD

Produced from 1962 – 1977, The B25 was available in both sunburst and as this 1967 example here, in a natural finish – the B25N. For many players, this was their first ‘real’ guitar.

Lowden O-35cx 2006 SOLD

George Lowden has been building guitars since 1973, through many ups and downs and changes in direction. This example was built in his current workshop in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, in 2006.

Gibson Super 400 CES 1995 (consignment) SOLD

The Super 400 used to be seen on many big stages with top players in top acts, like Merle Travis, Scotty Moore and Kenny Burrell. Now they are hardly seen, and Gibson doesn’t make many of them – they are mostly built to order. This 1995 model is in great shape, a big guitar with a big sound and a commanding presence.

SOLD Gibson F-5 Fern Mandolin

It’s been some years since Gibson has produced mandolins. This is the first F-5 Fern we have seen and it’s a welcome sight.

Egmond Rossetti – Early 1960’s (consignment) No Longer Available

Built in Holland, many players who later became famous had Egmonds as starter guitars – George Harrison’s first guitar was an Egmond. This guitar is in great, mostly original condition (aside from the refret) and really shows the state of European guitar craft in the early 1960’s. Priced at $1000 CAD with case.

Ernie Ball Music Man Albert Lee P90 SOLD

Music Man guitars are known for being comfortable to play, but they also happen to be some of the most well constructed, precision made instruments in the world. I am continuously impressed by the level of quality that can be found in all aspects of their guitars.

(Discontinued) Gibson Jackson Browne Model 1

This is a new model from Gibson, finally being released after some years of development and prototyping with Jackson Browne. Based on the 1930’s deep jumbo Roy Smeck models, this guitar has a massive sound, huge projection, and a full, clearly articulated tone. The 12-fret neck design moves the bridge closer to the center of the top, getting every bit of sound out of the guitar.

EKO 700 4V 1960’s (consignment) SOLD

a Vinci, Ferrarri, Maserati, Eko…. Italy has long been known for innovative designs. And this Eko 700 v4 is a very cool and rare guitar. Eko electric guitars were not uncommon in the early and mid 1960’s, and as a bonus, didn’t always depend on American manufacturers for design cues.

Martin Custom Shop Style 0 12-Fret Madagascar Rosewood SOLD

This beautiful Style 0 guitar from the Martin Custom Shop was one of the guitars that caught our eye at the 2012 Namm show and it was so limited that we were put into a lottery with other dealers to get one. I’m glad we did as this sweet little axe as a great retro vibe and luscious tone for a small guitar!

PRS SC 245 Artist Package SOLD

Companies have been producing single cutaway solidbody electric guitars for decades of course, but one look at this Single Cut 245 model from Paul Reed Smith and you just KNOW that this one is different. For starters, this particular instrument features the Artist Package …

Goya Model 80 early 1960’s (consignment) No longer available

Goya guitars were built by Hagstrom in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s and imported to North America.The model 80, and the very similar model 90, are mostly of plastic construction, chambered-body two-pickup electrics with push-button pickup and tone selectors. Thumb rollers control the volume for each pickup. Apparently 370 model 80’s were built.

Beltone Bass VI 1967 (consignment) SOLD

This is a visually interesting Japanese-made Bass IV from 1967. Six-string basses did not really catch on in this format but there are a few examples, like this, around.

Linda Manzer Custom Cutaway – Indian Rosewood 1980 (consignment) SOLD

This is a lovely guitar by Linda Manzer, built in 1980 in Toronto. It’s been played – as it should be! – and is in good shape. It speaks very well with clear, articulated trebles and a full yet not overwhelming bass. The inlay is very well executed, and all around this is a wonderful instrument.

Two Romantic Era Guitars – 1840 and 1847 (consignment)

We have a number of historic, Romantic era instruments for sale. All are being sold as is.

Here are another two, a George Manby guitar built in London around 1820, and a Gaetano Vinaccia guitar built around 1847 in Napoli, Italy.

Two French Romantic Era Guitars – 1820 and 1830 (consignment)

We have a number of historic, Romantic era instruments for sale. All are being sold as is.

Here are the first two, an Aubry Marie guitar built around 1820, and a Petre guitar built around 1830, both from France.

SOLD Gibson F-5G Mandolin – They’re Back!

Gibson mandolins have been unavailable for a couple of years now, and this Gibson F-5G mandolin is the very first we’ve seen since the Nashville Floods. Built in the Nashville custom shop, this shows all the classic lines and has the tone that’s made the F-5 the reference mandolin.

William Laskin – Indian Rosewood 1974 (consignment)

ere is a lovely early 70’s concert size flat top from Master Luthier William Laskin. This classic wood pairing of Sitka spruce and Indian rosewood along with this body shape provides a well balanced tone with strong note fundamental, full rich bass response and wonderful overtones. The inlay work on this guitar subtly hints at the incredible artwork which has made William Laskin world famous!

Martin OM-28 Custom for The Twelfth Fret’s 35th Anniversary SOLD

With a wink and a nod to classic design elements, superb playability and full engaging tone this custom shop Martin is another excellent guitar designed for the Twelfth Fret’s 35th Anniversary!

Gibson Custom Shop Hummingbirds SOLD

These two spectacular guitars were custom ordered and passed through the Gibson Custom Shop in Bozeman, Montana together.

The Kavanjo Banjo Pickup: Another Happy Customer

Duncan Fremlin  is one of our long time, professional banjo customers.  Duncan has performed with many of Canada’s greats and toured extensively over the years.

But Duncan  also has a “real job” as a well established Realtor in the City of Toronto.

Last week, he was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the International RE/MAX Convention in Las Vegas.

Taylor Custom GS 35th Anniversary SOLD

Here is the last of the custom build Taylor guitars for the 35th anniversary of the Twelfth Fret. I had the chance to hand select the wood sets for this guitar and pick all of the specifications at the Taylor factory and I have to tell you it is a great feeling when an idea in your head turns out to be such a wonderful looking and sounding guitar! When putting together a custom guitar I really like clean lines, beautiful wood sets and subtle elegant details and this guitar really hits the mark.The Grand Symphony body with a mahogany and sitka wood pairing provides a classic warm and full tone with plenty of midrange, bass and Taylor’s trade mark  treble sparkle!

Larrivée L-10 2002 (consignment) SOLD

This L-10 is in excellent condition and demonstrates the even, full tone and sparkle that put these guitars in the hands of fingerstyle players. It’s also got a lot of power and articulates cleanly.

Beard Vintage R Gloss Squareneck

This is the very first Vintage Model R Gloss Paul Beard has shipped, and evokes the resonator guitars of the 1930’s with growling bass and clear bright trebles.