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Average Price: $1,900

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step into a bygone era of rock and roll with the Silvertone 1488, a piece of musical history that embodies the spirited sounds of the mid-'60s. Crafted during a time when music was radically changing, this solid body electric guitar, originally distributed by Sears, holds a special place in the hearts of vintage gear enthusiasts. Its Jaguar-esque design not only makes a bold statement but also offers a nod to the craftsmanship and aesthetic of its time. Whether you're a collector, a musician seeking a distinct sound, or a fan of music history, the Silvertone 1488 offers a blend of retro charm and sonic versatility that's hard to find elsewhere.

Key Features:

  • Double cutaway solid body: For easy access to the higher frets and a comfortable playing experience.
  • Three pickups configuration: Offers a versatile range of tones, from warm rhythms to sharp leads.
  • Block inlays and three pickup switches: Enhance playability and sound customization.
  • Slanted headstock: Adds a unique touch to the guitar's overall design and aesthetic.
  • Notable use by Annie Clark: Testimony to its enduring appeal and distinctive sound.

Product specs

Brand Silvertone
Model 1488
Finish Red
Year 1966
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family Red
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Silvertone 1488 have?

The Silvertone 1488 is equipped with a single-coil pickup configuration (SSS), which provides a bright and clear tone suitable for various music styles, especially rock and blues.

Does the Silvertone 1488 have a tremolo system?

Yes, the Silvertone 1488 features a tremolo tailpiece, allowing players to achieve vibrato effects and add expressive nuances to their playing.

Is the Silvertone 1488 suitable for beginner guitarists?

The Silvertone 1488, with its solid body and straightforward design, can be a good choice for beginners who are interested in exploring vintage-style electric guitars and developing their skills.

What is the neck construction of the Silvertone 1488?

The Silvertone 1488 has a bolt-on neck construction, which typically offers ease of maintenance and repair, as well as a distinct tonal quality.

How many frets does the Silvertone 1488 have?

The Silvertone 1488 comes with 20 frets, providing a standard range for playing a wide variety of musical pieces.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Silvertone 1488.

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend a cap job and replacing the "death cap" with a three-prong plug for safety and reliability.

    Source
  • The internal layout can be a "rat's nest," making recapping a challenging task.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The tremolo is highly praised, while the reverb often underperforms or fails entirely.

    Source

User experience

  • It's common for the bridge on the 1488 to slide around, leading to tuning issues.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users favor new Silvertone reissues over vintage models due to improved reliability and corrected past issues.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how St. Vincent uses Silvertone 1488

St. Vincent

Singer, Guitarist

The Polyphonic Spree

...
Verified via Photo

"...the Bobkat and Silvertone have this amazing vibrato bar that’s super sensitive—you can dive bomb on it and it will stay in tune," says St. Vincent in this Premier Guitar article.

Genre Usage

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

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