Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $1,900
High-end/Boutique
$500
$1201+
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Description
Experience the distinctive charm of the Danelectro U-1, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics with modern performance. Known for its unique lipstick pickups, this guitar delivers a warm, jangly tone that has captivated musicians across genres since its original release in the late 1950s. The U-1's semi-hollowbody design offers a resonant sound with a touch of natural reverb, perfect for players seeking both clarity and depth in their music.
Crafted with a lightweight body, the Danelectro U-1 is comfortable to play during long sessions, whether you're on stage or in the studio. Its distinctive single cutaway design ensures easy access to higher frets, allowing for effortless solos and intricate chord work. The guitar's construction features a maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard, providing a smooth, responsive feel that enhances playability.
With its timeless appeal and versatile sound, the Danelectro U-1 is an excellent choice for musicians looking to add a unique voice to their collection. Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring guitarist, this instrument invites you to explore new sonic landscapes and express your musical creativity.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollowbody design for rich, resonant tones
- Unique lipstick pickups for a classic, jangly sound
- Single cutaway body for easy high-fret access
- Maple neck and rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
- Lightweight construction for comfort during long play sessions
Product specs
| Brand | Danelectro |
| Model | U-1 Single Pickup |
| Finish | Aqua, Black, Blue, Bronze, Coral, Fuchsia, Ivory, Jade Green |
| Year | 1956 - 1958 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars, Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Semi-Hollow Body, Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Top-Load |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple, White |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Number of Frets | 21 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | S |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Danelectro U-1's single pickup?
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The Danelectro U-1's single lipstick pickup delivers a bright, clear tone with a distinctive twang, making it ideal for surf rock, blues, and vintage pop sounds.
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Is the Danelectro U-1 suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Danelectro U-1 is suitable for beginners due to its lightweight design, comfortable neck profile, and straightforward controls, making it easy to play and handle.
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How does the semi-hollow body of the Danelectro U-1 affect its tone?
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The semi-hollow body of the Danelectro U-1 provides a resonant, airy tone with more sustain and warmth compared to solid body guitars, enhancing its vintage sound appeal.
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What is the neck profile like on the Danelectro U-1?
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The Danelectro U-1 features a slim, comfortable neck profile with a bolt-on construction, making it easy to navigate for both chord playing and lead work.
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Does the Danelectro U-1 come in different color options?
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Yes, the Danelectro U-1 is available in a variety of colors, including Aqua, Black, Blue, Bronze, Coral, Fuchsia, Ivory, and Jade Green, allowing for personal aesthetic preference.
Videos
Emerald City Guitars
"Pick of the Day" - 1957 Danelectro U1 and 1961 Fender Super Amp
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Danelectro U-1.
Features and functionality
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The Danelectro U-1's single coil pickup delivers a raw, gritty blues sound, ideal for achieving a Hubert Sumlin vibe.
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Danelectro Hodad models with Bigsby-style trems and dual single-coil lipstick pickups can be combined for a humbucker-like sound, offering versatility beyond a Telecaster.
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Use cases and applications
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Owners use the U-1 for specific tonal needs rather than versatility, comparing it to a "claw hammer" for its distinct sound.
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Despite its limited range, the U-1 excels in delivering unique timbres that surprise listeners with its distinct sound quality.
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The U-1 delivers exceptional slide tones; using a brass slide in open G or D tuning enhances its performance significantly.
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Build quality
User experience
Setup and maintenance
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating