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Description

Crafted with a legacy of innovation and a nod to the past, the Futurama III Guitar by Hagstrom is a classic reimagined for modern musicians. Born out of Sweden in the late '50s and evolving over the decades, this electric guitar stands as a testament to Hagstrom's pioneering spirit. With its three single-coil pickups, the Futurama III delivers a versatile tonal palette, perfect for guitarists who crave a broad spectrum of sound from shimmering highs to deep, resonant lows.

The solidbody, double cutaway design not only offers a sleek aesthetic but also ensures effortless playability across the fretboard. Equipped with six slide switches, this guitar allows for precise control over your sound, making it suitable for both studio sessions and live performances. The tremolo tailpiece adds a dynamic edge, enabling smooth pitch bends and vibrato effects to enhance your musical expression.

A favorite among iconic musicians like Kurt Cobain and Frank Zappa, the Futurama III is not just an instrument but a piece of music history. Its bolt-on neck and dot inlays contribute to a classic look that never goes out of style, while the volume knob offers intuitive control over your output. Whether you're a seasoned player or an aspiring guitarist, the Futurama III is ready to embark on a sonic journey with you.

Key Features:

  • Solidbody, double cutaway design
  • Three single-coil pickups
  • Tremolo tailpiece
  • Six slide switches
  • Volume knob
  • Bolt-on neck
  • Dot inlays

Product specs

Brand Hagstrom
Model Futurama III
Finish Blue
Year 1964
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family Blue
Fretboard Material Composite
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of music is the Hagstrom Futurama III best suited for?

The Hagstrom Futurama III, with its SSS pickup configuration, is versatile and well-suited for a range of genres, including rock, surf, and blues, offering bright and clear tones.

How does the tremolo tailpiece on the Futurama III affect playability?

The tremolo tailpiece on the Futurama III allows for pitch modulation, adding expressive vibrato effects to your playing, which is ideal for styles like surf rock.

Is the Futurama III a good choice for a beginner guitarist?

With its bolt-on neck and manageable 22 frets, the Futurama III offers comfortable playability, making it a suitable choice for beginners looking to explore electric guitar playing.

What is the neck profile like on the Hagstrom Futurama III?

The Hagstrom Futurama III features a slim neck profile, providing ease of playability and quick access across the fretboard, beneficial for fast-paced playing styles.

Can the Futurama III handle high-gain distortion?

While the SSS pickup configuration is more associated with clean and bright tones, it can still handle moderate distortion, although it may not be ideal for heavy metal genres.

Phil's Vintage Guitars Original

Phil's Vintage Guitars Original

1959 Futurama III - Phil's Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1959 Futurama III - Phil's Vintage Guitars by Phil's Vintage Guitars Original

1959 Futurama III - Phil's Vintage Guitars

Phil's Vintage Guitars Original

Phil's Vintage Guitars Original

Video thumbnail for Futurama 3 - the Beatles George Harrison's Guitar?  Well,  maybe in 1961 it was... by Manotick StringWorks

Futurama 3 - the Beatles George Harrison's Guitar? Well, maybe in 1961 it was...

Manotick StringWorks

Manotick StringWorks

Video thumbnail for 1960s Selmer Futurama III electric guitar by Jake Wildwood & Co

1960s Selmer Futurama III electric guitar

Jake Wildwood & Co

Jake Wildwood & Co

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Futurama III Guitar.

Setup and maintenance

  • Applying a clear satin polyurethane coat, such as Rustoleum 2k, can stabilize and protect the original paint without harming it.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A Tune-o-Matic bridge can be used as a replacement for the missing bridge, with adjustments to fit.

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Build quality

  • The guitar's wood veneer may require re-gluing and clamping to prevent further splitting and maintain structural integrity.

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User experience

  • Owners emphasize preserving the original relic look, as it contributes to the instrument's unique character and history.

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Artist usage

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See how Hilton Valentine uses Futurama III Guitar

Hilton Valentine

Guitarist

Eric Burdon & the Animals

...
Verified via Photo

"Futurama III This guitar was just one in a series of progressively better guitars that I owned. It looked cool and was in my price range. As stated in the book, Futurama was the brandname of UK importer Selmer. I used Selmer amps (see AMPS link at the bottom of the page) but that was not a consideration when I bought this. I purchased it new in either '59 or '60 and used it during my Wildcats days. George Harrison had a Futurama as well, but his had "Resonet" on the scratchplate - an almost identical guitar. I gave this guitar to Tappy Wright (who was in The Wildcats and later the Animals' road manager) when I bought a Burns guitar (below)." - via Hiltson's personal site

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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