Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$2,799.00
Guitar Center
$2,799.00
Amazon
5.0 (3)
Used
Reverb
$2,790.68 New
$1,749.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$2,799.00
B&H
$2,799.00

Average Price: $2,648

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Washburn Custom Shop 'Nuno Bettencourt' Signature N4". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Crafted for the discerning guitarist who seeks both style and substance, the Washburn Custom Shop 'Nuno Bettencourt' Signature N4 is a harmonious blend of innovation and artistry. Designed in collaboration with the legendary Nuno Bettencourt, this guitar marries iconic aesthetics with a performance-driven build, making it a staple for those serious about their sound.

At the heart of this guitar is its Seymour Duncan SH1 '59 neck pickup, celebrated for delivering those rich, vintage tones that harken back to the golden age of rock. Paired with a Bill Lawrence L-500 bridge pickup, the N4 ensures a versatile sonic palette, from creamy leads to biting riffs. The Stephen's Extended Cutaway design is another standout feature, offering unparalleled access to the upper frets, allowing your fingers to dance effortlessly across the fretboard.

This guitar isn't just about its electrifying sound; it boasts a sleek, comfortable alder body and a smooth maple neck that feels like a natural extension of the player. The ebony fretboard is adorned with dot inlays, adding a touch of elegance to its robust build. Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the N4 is engineered to elevate your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Seymour Duncan SH1 '59 neck pickup for vintage tones
  • Bill Lawrence L-500 bridge pickup for versatile sound
  • Stephen's Extended Cutaway for superior fret access
  • Alder body with maple neck and ebony fretboard
  • Dot inlays for a classic aesthetic touch

Product specs

Brand Washburn
Model Nuno Bettencourt Signature N4 Vintage USA
Finish Vintage Matte Natural
Year 2010s
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Natural, Tan
Fretboard Material Ebony
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Washburn Nuno Bettencourt N4 Vintage Signature Electric Guitar?

The Washburn N4 features a thin neck profile, measuring approximately 0.75" at the 1st fret and 0.88" at the 12th fret, providing fast playability suitable for shredding and technical playing styles.

What type of pickups are used in the Washburn Nuno Bettencourt N4?

The Washburn N4 is equipped with a Seymour Duncan '59 neck pickup and a Bill Lawrence L-500 bridge pickup, offering a versatile tonal range from warm, vintage sounds to sharp, cutting leads.

Is the Washburn N4 suitable for heavy metal and rock music?

Yes, the Washburn N4 is well-suited for heavy metal and rock, thanks to its dual humbucker configuration and locking tremolo bridge, which provide powerful tones and stability for aggressive playing.

Does the Washburn N4 have a locking tremolo system?

Yes, the Washburn N4 features a locking tremolo bridge, allowing for expressive pitch modulation while maintaining tuning stability, ideal for dive bombs and other dynamic techniques.

What materials are used in the construction of the Washburn N4?

The Washburn N4 is crafted with an alder body, maple neck, and ebony fretboard, combining to deliver a balanced tone with crisp highs and a smooth playing surface.

Guitar World

Guitar World

Nuno Bettencourt Signature Guitar - Washburn N4 Authentic Guitar

Video thumbnail for Nuno Bettencourt Signature Guitar - Washburn N4 Authentic Guitar by Guitar World

Nuno Bettencourt Signature Guitar - Washburn N4 Authentic Guitar

Guitar World

Guitar World

Video thumbnail for Nuno Bettencourt Signature Model Guitar - Washburn N4 Vintage  - In-depth Demo - MasterThatGear! by mastertheguitar

Nuno Bettencourt Signature Model Guitar - Washburn N4 Vintage - In-depth Demo - MasterThatGear!

mastertheguitar

mastertheguitar

Video thumbnail for Washburn Custom Shop N4 Nuno Bettencourt Signature 1993 | Get The Funk Out | Demo by Paul Audia by Guitar Sauce

Washburn Custom Shop N4 Nuno Bettencourt Signature 1993 | Get The Funk Out | Demo by Paul Audia

Guitar Sauce

Guitar Sauce

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Washburn Custom Shop 'Nuno Bettencourt' Signature N4.

Mods and upgrades

  • Custom aluminum pickup rings and cover plates can enhance the visual appeal and durability of the guitar.

    Source
  • There is interest in upgrading to stainless steel frets, suggesting potential longevity and playability improvements for the N4.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The B&B L500XL pickup in the bridge position is a popular choice for enhancing tonal clarity and output.

    Source
  • The guitar features a clear acrylic control cavity cover, offering a unique visual element not commonly found in other models.

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  • A limiting washer beneath the volume knob prevents the protruding knob screw from turning, enhancing control and precision.

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  • The recessed output jack is a signature design element, providing a streamlined appearance and potentially reducing the risk of accidental unplugging during performances.

    Source
  • The Stephen's Extended Cutaway neck joint allows thumb access up to the 24th fret, enhancing playability in the upper register.

    Source

Build quality

  • Sanding the neck with 2000 grit sandpaper significantly improves the smoothness for a more comfortable playing experience.

    Source
  • The guitar has a distinct knot near the bridge humbucker, aiding in identification and adding character to the wood finish.

    Source
  • The early '90s Davies N4 models feature a unique neck profile and tougher Kahler Steeler bridge, distinguishing them from later factory builds with potentially cheaper Schaller bridges.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report a distinctive stale smoked tobacco smell, suggesting extensive use in live settings and adding to its vintage character.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report that a fret level and crown performed in 2006 maintained razor-low action without buzzing, highlighting the guitar's long-term stability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare the build quality of the N4 favorably against the white Petrucci Majesty, noting a more robust feel in the N4.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Washburn N4 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Washburn Custom Shop 'Nuno Bettencourt' Signature N4 is a standout guitar that delivers an exceptional playing experience. Notable for its "out of this world" neck and a vibe that captures Bettencourt's iconic sound, this instrument is perfect for those seeking a unique funk-driven performance. However, the price tag is steep and its appeal may be limited to die-hard fans due to its strong player association. Despite the few drawbacks, the N4's performance and feel make it a fantastic choice for enthusiasts looking for a guitar that truly sings.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
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1 star
pariahrob

My 'home' guitar

I first got one of these in the mid 90s and fell in love immediately. Yes, the L500 XL in the bridge can be a bit shrill but that's easy to deal with. The rawness is sublime, the neck is comfortable and fast, the trem is perfect (scholar floyd on this one) and the body is raging beautifully. This is a paddock model so is now looking a little darker and more purple/brown.

If I'm feeling writers block all I need to is this and the H&K amp and 20 minutes to let rip. It's my home. My happy place.

Its what I use as my benchmark when carving necks on my own instruments.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Josh Portman uses Washburn Custom Shop 'Nuno Bettencourt' Signature N4

Josh Portman

Bassist

Yellowcard

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Verified via Photo

Josh Portman posted a picture of his favorite guitars, in which the Washburn Custom Shop 'Nuno Bettencourt' Signature N4 is shown.

"Happy Tuesday from me and my five favorite children! '86 Alpine White Les Paul Custom, '78 Les Paul Custom Black Beauty w/ maple neck, '88 Fender Mary Kaye Blonde '57 Reissue P-Bass, Charvel Warren DeMartini Signature Snake, and my original Washburn Nuno Bettencourt N4, signed by the man himself!"

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Washburn Custom Shop 'Nuno Bettencourt' Signature N4, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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