#1
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Advice on possible purchase
Hi everyone,
I wandered into a vintage guitar shop this morning and found something that might interest me. The shop technician was working on a freshly arrived 1974 Harmony Opus and let me play it. I liked the feel and the sound of it. The label says it was made in Chicago but not much more. It is quite reasonably priced (+/-$800) and as I would be trading in a vintage Japan-made Squier Jazz Bass, it would end up costing much less than that. At this point, the only thing that is bothering me is the very low action which entails a lot of buzzing all over the fretboard. But the tech says he can fix it as the bridge is very low and he can find a way to prop it up. The pickguard is missing but that does not worry me too much. The tuners look fine. What else should I be on the lookout for? Thanks for your help, Michel
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Yairi JY84 SB Art & Lutherie AMI Black Guild GAD 50 |
#2
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Cracks, especially ones that have not been repaired. Look closely at the neck to make sure it is straight with only the slightest bow and there is no twist to it. Check for fret wear. I'd want a new saddle with the old one put in the case. I would not be crazy about putting something under the old saddle to make it taller.
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#3
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$800.00 seems high to me. Maybe if were collector pristene. Others will certainly expand upon this discussion.
Also, I am not an electric player but is my understanding that MIJ Squires are quite desireable. Do some more research on the Squire's value and the Harmony. If you gotta have a vintage guitar, then you gotta have it. BUT, for $800.00 you can find good, more current guitars. Don't move too quickly. |
#4
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Not sure
But what I can tell you is that it is over priced I wouldn't pay any where near that $400-600 tops in excellent shape.
Here is one getting a refit: http://harmony.demont.net/kamikazie.php?page=036 |
#5
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I would have to say that $800 could get a whole lot of guitar that would put that OPUS to shame. I look at those older cheap guitars as what they are, there is no magic in them , they are just old. I know a lot of people that go nuts for a dead LG-0 and they sound no better than the old harmonys. $800 could get a choice of 15/16 series martins and possibly a nice 60's LG-1 that is "almost" an awesome guitar. $800 could also get a nice unknown custom build that never made it but that doesnt mean they arent spectacular.
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#6
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Let the tech make his modifications, then go back and evaluate what the guitar is worth to you. Disregard valuations from strangers on the internet who have not played the subject guitar. It's your money and your life.
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#7
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It does not hurt to ask for or give advice or an opinion. It does not mean there is obligation to act on any advice/opinion.
I find out many things on this forum. It's nice to be in a place where there is some commonality. So, listen, sort. Do what is best for you. |
#8
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Hi everyone and thank you,
Following your messages, I have been looking around and it happens that my old bass might be worth more than I thought. So, I'll wait a little and see what happens. I've already had a generous offer from a friend of mine... Regarding the Opus, I'll play it again later this week if the tech has finished working on it. Thanks again, Michel
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Yairi JY84 SB Art & Lutherie AMI Black Guild GAD 50 |