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Average Price: $6,772

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

The Parker Fly Artist is a marvel of modern guitar craftsmanship, embodying a perfect fusion of innovative design and sonic versatility. Known for its unique construction and exceptional tonal range, this guitar stands out in any ensemble or solo setting. The Parker Fly Artist features a Sitka spruce body and a carbon-glass-epoxy reinforced neck, providing an unparalleled lightweight experience at just 4.5 pounds. This combination ensures not only durability but also enhances the guitar's capability to deliver both rich acoustic and dynamic electric tones.

With its dual Seymour Duncan magnetic pickups coupled with Graph Tech piezo elements, the Fly Artist delivers a spectrum of sounds from crisp electric leads to resonant acoustic tones. The 24-fret basswood neck and carbon-glass-epoxy fretboard offer smooth playability, while the custom-cast aluminum vibrato bridge adds a touch of expressiveness to your performance. The guitar’s smart switching jack and split stereo or summed mono outputs allow for versatile connectivity, making it a perfect companion for both stage and studio.

The Parker Fly Artist is more than just an instrument; it's a statement piece, meticulously crafted in limited quantities for musicians who demand the best. Whether you're exploring new musical landscapes or refining your signature sound, the Fly Artist will elevate your artistry to new heights.

Key Features:

  • Sitka spruce body with basswood neck
  • Carbon-glass-epoxy reinforced neck and fretboard
  • Dual Seymour Duncan magnetic pickups with Graph Tech piezo system
  • Custom-cast aluminum vibrato bridge
  • 24 stainless-steel frets, 25.5" scale length
  • Split stereo or summed mono outputs with Smart Switching jack
  • Lightweight design at 4.5 pounds
  • Sperzel locking tuners
  • Parker Fly custom hard case included

Product specs

Brand Parker
Model Fly Artist
Finish Transparent Butterscotch
Year 1998 - 2002
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Color Family Yellow
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Composite
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
String Type Steel
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Parker Fly Artist's pickups?

The Parker Fly Artist features a combination of magnetic and piezo pickups, offering a versatile sound range. This allows players to switch between rich humbucker tones and crisp, acoustic-like sounds, making it suitable for various musical styles.

How does the Parker Fly Artist's neck profile affect playability?

The Parker Fly Artist is known for its thin, fast neck profile, which enhances playability and allows for quick, smooth transitions across the fretboard, making it ideal for both shredding and intricate fingerstyle playing.

Is the Parker Fly Artist suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Parker Fly Artist is designed to be lightweight with a balanced body, making it comfortable for long performances. Its versatile pickup configuration also provides a broad sonic palette, suitable for various live settings.

What type of fretboard material is used in the Parker Fly Artist?

The Parker Fly Artist features a composite fretboard, which offers durability and a smooth playing surface, contributing to its overall playability and longevity.

Does the Parker Fly Artist support alternate tunings?

The Parker Fly Artist's robust design and stable tuning system make it well-suited for alternate tunings, providing consistent intonation and tuning stability across different settings.

Danielle Muscato

Danielle Muscato

1997 Parker Fly Artist: Guitar Unboxing & Review

Video thumbnail for 1997 Parker Fly Artist: Guitar Unboxing & Review by Danielle Muscato

1997 Parker Fly Artist: Guitar Unboxing & Review

Danielle Muscato

Danielle Muscato

Video thumbnail for Parker Fly Artist - Manchester Music Mill by Manchester Music Mill

Parker Fly Artist - Manchester Music Mill

Manchester Music Mill

Manchester Music Mill

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Parker Fly Artist.

Build quality

  • The Parker Fly is noted for its futuristic design and unique cutaway contours, contributing to its distinctive look and feel.

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  • The Fly's construction involves a synthetic exoskeleton and carbon-reinforced neck, contributing to its distinct feel and durability.

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Features and functionality

  • Earlier models feature specially wound versions of DiMarzio Tone Zone and Air Norton pickups, offering a unique tonal character not found in later models.

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  • The Fly's unique vibrato system uses a flat spring with adjustable tension via a thumbwheel, enhancing playability and tuning stability.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners encounter issues with the motherboard distorting and piezo systems failing, and report difficulty finding technicians capable of servicing these guitars.

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User experience

  • The Fly's neck is described as a modern C shape, slightly flatter, with a thin profile and 1 1/16th inch nut width, affecting playability.

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  • Lightweight design under 5 lbs and fiberglass neck enhance comfort, making it suitable for those with physical limitations like back pain.

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Comparisons

  • The Parker Fly is compared favorably against Les Pauls for sustain, with some users suggesting it sustains as well or better despite its lighter weight.

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  • Fly models often outperform Les Pauls in tuning stability due to factory-installed Sperzel locking tuners.

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Other

  • Sourcing parts for the Parker Fly can be challenging, which is a consideration for potential buyers aware of its unique construction and parts.

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Use cases and applications

  • Despite not being a jazz guitarist's ideal tone, its durability and playability make it a favorite for home jamming and travel practice.

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Value and pricing

  • Prices have risen significantly since production ceased in 2016, making it a valuable investment when found in good condition.

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