FUQ (eff -yu - cue) - FAQ's with an EDGE

Tagged As: Danelectro Guitar

Question:
I stopped by GC today and played some of the new, inexpensive DanElectro guitars. I liked the first version, 2 pickups w/painted neck, and the 3 pickup single cutaway with the big wooden neck. The single cut had a better usable reach than the double cutaway, and the cord plugs into the side (LP style) instead of the top of the guitar. They were all under $300. Anyone out there own or use these new Danos? How do you like them?

Answer:
A friend of mine has a new Danelectro U2 reissue, and it's pretty nice. The lipstick pickups sounded better (warmer) than I thought they would. The quality is very good on his, although this can vary on some of Danelectro's products. I've tried various U2s myself and noticed that some were better than others, just make sure you pay close attention and get the best one. Other then that, the prices are extremely low for what you are getting. A Danelectro wouldn't be my first choice for a main guitar, but would make a great addition to your collection. I have a Dano U2. Someone that works for a music wholesaler who can remember the original said they were junk then and they are junk now. I must agree with him. BUT, and that's a big but. They are intended to be cheap. It’s like the junk-food of guitars. Cheesies and a Coke. They are cool. A main guitar no, unless you are ten years old. Remember this guitar was originally made for ten year olds. Those pickups are crap, weak and wimpy as shit and unbalanced from string to string (no pole pieces). Not enough break angle at the bridge to give it sustain. It does have that cheesy fifties style which I love. I like the aluminum nut as well. I make a guitar with the same body shape but considerably smaller and more comfy. Other than that, it is nothing like the original. Mine has powerful DiMarzios, a fast neck, sustains for two weeks, rings like a chime, has a solid body and kicks ass. I got a Dano baritone this summer and am quite pleased with it - yes, an adjustable bridge would be a Great improvement and if they come out with one, I'll certainly retrofit the thing with it.  I'm very happy with the sound.  I tried out the electric 12 string yesterday - unplugged - and I fear that I may end up getting that as well. At least at Dano's prices, one can afford a degree of G.A.S.. I've had a Danelectro 56-u2 (single cutaway, two pickup painted neck) for almost a year now, and I still love it.  If you're looking to buy a Dano make sure to play as many of the model of your choice as you can.  These are good guitars but there are inconsistencies with any guitar in this price range, playing a stack of them will ensure that you can find the best of the bunch. Keep in mind also that the 3 pickup models have better tuning machines and a better bridge than the 2 pickup models.  YOu should also look at their Hodad model, two humbucekrs with coil tapping and phase switching, and a bigsdby style vibrato is also available on the Hodad.