SBG2000 and SBG1000 Guitar Reissues

When Yamaha issued their original SG models in the mid-1970's, the guitars became famous for their amazing sustain. Legendary artists like Carlos Santana and Bob Marley used the Yamaha SG2000 throughout the decade, helping to define a generation through the SG's tone and style. At Winter NAMM 2007, Yamaha introduces the SBG2000 and the SBG1000, historical recreations of the celebrated SG2000 and the SG1000 originally rolled out in 1976.

The SBG2000 and SBG1000, faithful reproductions of the originals, are individually hand built by the highly skilled master luthiers at the famed Yamaha Music Craft in Hamamatsu, Japan, the company's elite workshop that is responsible for producing Yamaha's top-of-the-line handcrafted acoustic guitars and custom instruments.

"From online auction sites to chat rooms, we have seen a tremendous amount of buzz for the original SG models," said Bryan Savage, marketing manager, Yamaha Guitars, Pro Audio & Combo Division. "There is an incredible love affair with any and all SG guitars, which is why we have decided to issue a limited supply of faithful and accurate reproductions hand built in Japan."

Both SBG models feature a premium carved maple top over a mahogany body, a 22-fret ebony fretboard over a mahogany neck and an adjustable Tune-O-Matic bridge with stop tail piece. Electronics include two alnico humbucking pickups, a three-position toggle switch, and two volume, two-tone pots with push/push coil taps. The SBG2000 features neck-through construction; the SBG1000 comes with a set neck.

The one new feature that has been added to the new SBG guitars is what Yamaha calls the Initial Response Acceleration. "Initial Response Acceleration is a Yamaha original manufacturing technique that accelerates the maturing process of the guitar," said Armando Vega, product manager, Yamaha Guitars, Pro Audio & Combo Division. "This process allows a newly built guitar to develop its own unique personality quicker, producing a highly responsive instrument that sounds as if it has been played for years."

The Initial Response Acceleration also brings out the guitar's tonal sweet spots, increases the stability and strength of the wood and offers protection against cracking, splitting and decay.

The Santana connection, along with the skills of Yamaha's custom shop, helped spread the word about the original SG models. Renowned players who began to use the guitars include reggae great Bob Marley, jazz master Al Di Meola, Stax/Volt house guitarist Steve Cropper, Phil Manzanera (Roxy Music), Paul Barrere (Little Feat) and Al McCay (Earth, Wind & Fire).

The SBG2000 (MSRP: $4,099.99) and the SBG1000 (MSRP: $3,299.99) are scheduled to ship in March 2007.