Danelectro is like that one kid we all went to high school with that was wierd af but would also do crazy things that we swore only he could do and he made us laugh our asses off so we always partied with him.
Hey! I never comment really on anything I watch, but I want to thank you for continued awesome content. Your demeanor and love for music shine through when you are sharing knowledge, opinions and ideas. I appreciate all you do, as a viewer, a player and lover of music. Thanks for putting stuff out there that allows us all to sharpen our perspective!!
I’ve had a 56 reissue for about 17 years now and I still love playing it. It was my first electric and I’ll never part with it. I think it’s an incredibly comfortable guitar to play, it has a look and sound all its own. Also it’s nice to practice on because it has a decent sound unplugged. Some may say they’re ugly or that they’re a cheap toy, but at least Danolectro is keeping it real and giving the player something unique.
I can't remember who coined the term or where I first heard it, but this is a great example of a "soundtrack" guitar: something with a sound a bit out-in-left-field and a vibe and texture that eludes Strats, Teles, LPs, and other "mainstream" guitars. I'm a big believer that every gear-crazy, GAS-afflicted guitar player should have a "soundtrack" guitar.
i dont really like the idea that people imply that danelectro is "that weird guitar that you bring out sometimes". its a great sound, nothing wrong with using it as a main guitar
It's too.. ringy? Not exactly bright or thin. And i think it produces some cool tones. But this guitar wouldnt be your first pick for 90% of music. As your 4th 6th whatever guitar? heck yes
I have a Jazzmaster for that reason. Very unique, great for chords and anything surf, rockabilly or experimental. The vibrato really makes it shine. I use it way more than I thought I would though, it's my second fave guitar behind my guild s100
Nice, I never heard the "soundtrack guitar" term either until just now, and being that I have always wanted a Dano DC59, and love movie soundtracks, I think I need to get one of these asap lol. And in black of course, so I can play a little of "Midnight Moonlight" before segueing into "Kashmir."
Watching your videos makes me happy. You're so enthusiastic and that makes me enthusiastic about the topic as well. You're living the dream. Hard work pays off.
MUST HAVE NOW!!!! Used to work at a shop where we sold the reissues when they were first coming out. Kind of like a moped. Fun to ride til your friends see you on it (More to that joke, but thought I'd clean it up). These newer ones are absolutely a must have for collectors of the different or wierd like me. Starting the hunt as we speak. Keep bringing the different to us, Crazy what's out there the rank and file of us don't get to see. Thanks!
The pickup placement on those is quite unique...the neck pup is closer to a middle and the bridge pup is super close to the wrap around...especially the treble strings...I've been playing on and off since 1965 and I've never even held a Dano...but I like em'. LOL:)
Used to have an original one years ago. Great guitars! Cool to see a reissue. That bridge makes that reissue much easier to setup. Mine you couldn't intonate.
It's not difficult to set the intonation on the rosewoods. Pain in the arse, but doable. With them being uncompensated, it's not perfect, but close enough for Rock'N'Roll goodness. Who plays a Danelectro above the twelfth without a slide anyway?
Funny. I'm a 35 yr. former semi pro drummer. Every thing he played I put a rhythm to in my head! I just can't get drums outta me no matter how much I wanna learn guitar!
My orange metal flake just arrived today after a year on backorder. I have several Danelectro’s the best manufacture is my first gen Korean U2. The quality is excellent on this gen too.
Cabby Cabby I enjoy andertons videos for entertainment, but after several years of viewing without them ever NOT liking something, and then their claims of the Marsha!l dsl40c ending, I don't really trust their videos.
There best video is when they review the fretless guitar. They're both drunk. They spend 20 minutes saying how the guitar is quite shit. Then at the end of the video realise that it has been way out of tune all along!
When I was a little kid taking guitar lessons in the 1960's, the music school had a Dan Electro on display in their front window. I drooled over that guitar, but this one looks to be much better.
This is the BEST Danelectro review I have seen for the 59m. I have been sitting on the fence about purchasing a 59M-12. This review sold me on it. Thank you.
Bought the "Sweetwater Edition" about a year ago...antique white with a black "seal" pickguard. Had to have it...I learned to play my first song on my uncle's Silvertone version in the 60's.
Love those Danelectros... even though I don't have one. Really dig the Mosrite-patterned versions they offer. Thanks Phil. Enjoying these earlier vids!
I think these guitars are so cool. I’ve been wanting to buy one for a while but the fact that they’re so cheap and I’ve just heard bad things about them in general. I trust Phil and want to believe him here though. I love how they look!
man always wanted to buy one of these ever since the n.o.s. reissues of the early 90's, does seem that the improvements you pointed out make for a better Dano.
That new bridge is a game changer. I had the "older" version and got rid of it because of the flimsy bridge system. The nut was aluminum and the neck heel joint was pretty flimsy too. Was like a cheap banjo ... couldn't keep'er in tune. Good vid Phil.
I have a 1448 Dano made "Silvertone". Great guitar....super cool tone...and the amp still work (though you have to be careful with it). Love it! Glad to see the much improved bridge design.
Dude! Based on your review I bought the exact guitar you review here. I love it. It's my 8th guitar! I'm impressed by the quality and the sound. My action was low. I didn't get the coasters nor the strings. I did get the poster. It does "come alive" in the middle position. I managed to pick it up for $350 new. It doesn't come with a case and Dan Guitars doesn't make cases. Thanks!
"Makes me want to play full open chords but electric" I have told many people the same thing about my 59! It has a strum quality that most electric guitars don't capture I love it, great video thanks!
my dad used to work at a recording studio twice a week at night, and he would bring me to help him as a chore for my allowance and what not, not to mention i just liked going there to see and secretly play with all the stuff. they had a vintage danelectro on the wall that looked like it was made out of heavy fabric. it sounded like garbage, but it looked so cool. they also had a vintage rickenbacker.
Uh oh. I was looking up light weight guitars and found your review. I already bought an amp on your recommendation for 350 bucks. This just pushed me over the edge. Linking to it now and buying it! Thank you as always my dude.
that middle position with the boost...love it! could seriously belt out some awesome tones. I'm thinking something like 1987-1991 They Might Be Giants twang. Speaking of -- happy birthday to John Flansburgh!
I have one of these things (black) and it is really fun to play! It has this clunky retro look to it which I love, kinda sounds like a hollow telecaster -- maybe a little more trebly on the bridge pickup and deeper on the neck pickup (I'd say usable for jazz if you like). The guitar cost me under $500 (a few years ago) and is well worth it. I got the idea to play one from the guitarist in Southern Culture on the Skids. I really like the way it looks because few people play them -- they look so sears silvertony 60s like.
Hi Phil, I loved your video. I own a Dano '59 Psychedelic, I love it. They brought these guitars quite a few years ago into the UK, I haven't seen another one since. The psych paintwork covers everything, including the fingerboard. It is a replica of Eric Clapton's Dano when he was in Cream...
I own a Korean model from the original reissues from the 90s such a great cool guitar. The original reason I bought one was unplugged it’s still got decent enough volume for practice. The reason they have a unique sound in the middle position is I believe because the pickups are wired in series they replicate more of a humbucking vibe. Some years ago I picked up a brand new copy of Neptune Bound which goes into unbelievable in depth detail of the Danelectro brand. Oddly the book now sells for many hundreds of pounds.
I have a several danos from 98-99 and there made in korea. Danos are not completly hollow.they have a plywood frame. Its solid from under the bridge to the rear strap button, its also solid at the cutaway horns , and of course the neck pocket The masonite is about 1/4" thick. The trim around the sides is just plastic tape that hides the plywood frame. Its always Amazed me how all these cheap materials can sound so good. Danelectros are world class guitars , just ask Mr. Page He'll tell ya. The price is getting kinda high, in 98 I payed $200 to $225 the high price was a baritone. Im gonna date My self, when I was 10 and learning to play you could by a new dc59. For $ 47!
Awesome that yours has the updated bridge. I have one of the first reissues, from the late nineties, with the lousy strip-of-wood bridge. Need to replace that and the input jack, then set it up to play slide. DADGAD is fantastic on these guitars.
Great video Phillip. I have a late 90's Korean reissue of a '56-U2 and love it to bits. As you say, it's not a Strat and it's not a Les Paul. I guess the nearest thing to it would be a Rickenbacker but even then it's not quite the same. I use mine for slide and it has a wonderfully glassy clean tone which is quite unique. Sometimes I add a bit of compression as these guitars don't have a great deal of sustain. Mine has the old-style bridge which is more difficult to intonate but retains a more original tone. You have to be a bit careful if you use heavier gauge strings as the bridge is only screwed into the central block with two normal wood screws and too much tension will rip the bridge out. I use Newtone Michael Messer Electric Slide Classics 013"-052" as they have a round core and put less tension on the bridge and the neck. It looks like the later models have a truss rod but the originals and the first Korean replicas (like mine) do not have one. It's a tribute to Nat Daniels's original design that very few of his guitars have neck problems. Like you, I love the middle position with both pickups on. You can use the volume and tone controls like a Les Paul to get a wide variety of sounds. If you want to dig deeper into the wonderful world of Danelectro guitars, read Doug Tulloch's "Neptune Bound" or check out his website on www.danelectro.guru/
Sick! I never expected this kid of video. I've own this model (except in Seafoam) and I love it! I've put mirrors on it to give it the Syd Barrett aura.
They just didn't get it did they. Lipstick pick ups on a Masonite body just produces something unique and wonderful. Pure clean sounds which make them the best sounding electric rhythm guitar of all time (probably). The Anderton twins have never heard the word 'rhythm' innit...... Lol
The way it is wired gives you three radically different tones. First, yes, ignored the knobs. Dime them. That mid position is basically a wide-range humbucker. Good for that. But the bridge with an auto wah is trebley party time. And the neck with a proper fuzz is black light heaven. Enjoy.
I’ve got a 12 string reissue- it sounds fantastic, it’s not a Rikenbaker but hell it only cost £350!!! I love it for those 60s numbers which is where it scores. If you want something different but can’t justify spending £2000+++ one of these or the 12 will float your boat!
Thanks for showing in this video that playing a guitar should be fun! Too many of us have lost sight of that in the quest to become rock "gods" (in our own minds, anyway). Too late for me, so I'll just continue to have fun, too! Great vid!
I LOVE Danos, and I have a slightly earlier modal of this as well as the 64. They are great guitars with a unique sound. This is one of the best demo/reviews of a Danelectro guitar I have ever seen. Great work Phil.
One of my first guitars was a 90s reissue Danelectro U2. Its a great first guitar because it’s just the right volume unplugged when you wanna practice thanks to the hollow body. Alas, upper fret access isn’t the best but, one should be able to access all 5 pentatonic boxes easily enough.
Right? I love these things. There's just something about them. They were extremely cheaply made in the 60's but they were designed in a way that gives them their own charm. And I love the sound of those pickups.
I’ve played a 59 dc deluxe most my life and wonderfully playable instrument with great tones, though I didn’t always find it very attractive with its faux wood Formica top. At some point I just found beauty in its pragmatic design and construction and it’s cheapness as a dept store guitar took on an appeal of its own. Recently bought a 90s dc2 nos reissue and really impressed for $275. Not thrilled with the bridge out the gate, but going to get used to it or maybe seek alternative wrap around to try. Much more attractive without looking like an rv countertop. Lol
The pickups are wired in series ,so in the middle they effectively become a humbucker, good volume jump , and no one seems to mention the poplar wood skeleton, anyway
Yes, that middle position is amazing. But to be nitpicky, I'd say that the guitar would be even better with a humbucker in the bridge, either H-S-S or H-S, or H-H configuration. The single coil bridge pickup leaves a little to be desired. If it were a splittable humbucker, I think you would still be able to get that middle position tone that he gets in the video if you also had a single in the neck position.
Thanks so much for doing this vid - I fuckin' LOVE Danelectros! The DC59m nos will do me! Just had to adjust the bridge and pick up heights. I'm in love with these guitars!
Thanks Phil for the informative video on the Dano. The bridge pickup (in standard tuning that you demonstrated) sounds very much like a “Jerry Reed” kind of tone. Very cool!
I bought online. I sent it back! Low e tuning key was too close to the next 12 string e. The aluminum nut was not finished, the fret sprout was crazy. The side wrap was rough and not finished. The seller “ Detroit Guitar” assured me of their “12” step inspection. Now, these people said I horribly scratched the finish on top and bottom. The takeaway? Someone sent this guitar to them, they didn’t send it back. They protested my return, that I had scratched the finish! Video the unboxing!!!! I bought from another company, this guitar was great.
A guitar store near me has a Danelectro like this, but it also has a Rickenbacker-like soundhole. The tag says "Danelectro 59M Spruce" and it's priced at $499.99. I tried it out in the store and I'm now giving serious consideration to buying it as my very first electric guitar.
Had a Danelectro I had to part with, but I've always loved them. Even their 'bad' years don't get the props they deserve. Unique guitars and underrated.
I own a late 90's early 2000's DC 59 Pro and it's different that yours or the original ones. It has a non recessed die cast bridge, Gotoh sealed tuners, and a maple, rather than poplar neck. The color is sparkle black.
Was checking this out because I got a NOS+ version. Love the demo. You are right they are great guitars. The reason the guitar "comes alive" in the middle position is because, unlike Teles or Les Pauls, the two pickups are wired in series not in parallel making the sound louder and darker, than if it was parallel.
I got a black 1 pickup double cutaway coke bottle head stock new Danelectro in 1967 for $75. As a poor guy I sold it for $25 in '69 to trade up for dual pickup guitars and humbucker ones one after another unlike today when I have several guitars and barely play at all. I wouldn't want this one for my only guitar but still missing the '67 I'd love to have this model to fool with. The three way switch on the 1 pickup was full treble cut / tone control active / no tone control or treble cut.
Thanks for being fair with this guitar, Andertons called it shit for 10 minutes before they played it, and when they did they played it without all the pedals they normally use, pissed me off
sparky191 it's a weird thing. A lot of people way back in the day started out on these and silvertones, they were really cheap starter guitars way back when. There's a lot of nostalgia playing into why people like these, it gives them a lot of mojo. Not to mention they look super unique, maybe not most people's idea of beautiful, but really attention grabbing at the least.
Good demo, thx for posting this. What a sharp git! I'd abuse it for Brit Invasion/ 1966 garage rock purposes, lol! I should get one. Can't get over how futuristic and stylish...salivates..
One reason the center position sounds so great is that the pickups are wired in series, so when they're both on its louder than either one alone. Most other guitars have the pickups wired in parallel so the middle position is a little quieter than the soloed pickups.
The reason it kicks ass in the middle position is 'cause the PUs are switched in series, sort of like a Tele with a 4 position switch. Great for slide, too.
Danelectro is like that one kid we all went to high school with that was wierd af but would also do crazy things that we swore only he could do and he made us laugh our asses off so we always partied with him.
Bro ❤️
bit cringe but ok
Buccarado okay
Bro shut up
@@RicksLicks Bro lighten up troll
the sound at 6:52 basically cemented the fact that i’m buying one of these as soon as possible
My thoughts also, totally not the image of Baltic sea death-metal but would work! Id paint it, n feel the chill.
Honestly not into it. It sounds like I’m listening to my next door neighbor crank out dad rock, through 6 walls.
DADGAD tuning.. Ahh yeeahh, we know what song is coming.
Scotty C lol I was thinking the same thing. "C'mon dude, you did tuning for one reason/band"
Hell, he’s only even heard of that guitar for the same reason....what’s next? A Supro amp demo?
DFM Bass kashmir
Tananan tananan tan tananan tanana tan tanana tan tanana
The only reason anyone has ever used that tuning
Hey! I never comment really on anything I watch, but I want to thank you for continued awesome content. Your demeanor and love for music shine through when you are sharing knowledge, opinions and ideas. I appreciate all you do, as a viewer, a player and lover of music.
Thanks for putting stuff out there that allows us all to sharpen our perspective!!
How could you open it and let it sit for a month!! Dude's got self control.
What the hell? A proper bridge?
I’ve had a 56 reissue for about 17 years now and I still love playing it. It was my first electric and I’ll never part with it. I think it’s an incredibly comfortable guitar to play, it has a look and sound all its own. Also it’s nice to practice on because it has a decent sound unplugged. Some may say they’re ugly or that they’re a cheap toy, but at least Danolectro is keeping it real and giving the player something unique.
This video makes me want to get one of these for my mum. Affordable, pretty, unique! She can't play, but if i get the money, you've made me a fan.
I can't remember who coined the term or where I first heard it, but this is a great example of a "soundtrack" guitar: something with a sound a bit out-in-left-field and a vibe and texture that eludes Strats, Teles, LPs, and other "mainstream" guitars. I'm a big believer that every gear-crazy, GAS-afflicted guitar player should have a "soundtrack" guitar.
i dont really like the idea that people imply that danelectro is "that weird guitar that you bring out sometimes". its a great sound, nothing wrong with using it as a main guitar
It's too.. ringy? Not exactly bright or thin. And i think it produces some cool tones. But this guitar wouldnt be your first pick for 90% of music. As your 4th 6th whatever guitar? heck yes
I have a Jazzmaster for that reason. Very unique, great for chords and anything surf, rockabilly or experimental. The vibrato really makes it shine. I use it way more than I thought I would though, it's my second fave guitar behind my guild s100
Nice, I never heard the "soundtrack guitar" term either until just now, and being that I have always wanted a Dano DC59, and love movie soundtracks, I think I need to get one of these asap lol.
And in black of course, so I can play a little of "Midnight Moonlight" before segueing into "Kashmir."
Watching your videos makes me happy. You're so enthusiastic and that makes me enthusiastic about the topic as well. You're living the dream. Hard work pays off.
MUST HAVE NOW!!!! Used to work at a shop where we sold the reissues when they were first coming out. Kind of like a moped. Fun to ride til your friends see you on it (More to that joke, but thought I'd clean it up). These newer ones are absolutely a must have for collectors of the different or wierd like me. Starting the hunt as we speak. Keep bringing the different to us, Crazy what's out there the rank and file of us don't get to see. Thanks!
You forgot to mention that the middle position is actually both pickups in series! That's probably why that was your favorite setting.
Great review buddy! I’ve had a Danelectro Hodad Baritone for 17 years! The one with three pickups! Love it!
The pickup placement on those is quite unique...the neck pup is closer to a middle and the bridge pup is super close to the wrap around...especially the treble strings...I've been playing on and off since 1965 and I've never even held a Dano...but I like em'. LOL:)
Used to have an original one years ago. Great guitars! Cool to see a reissue. That bridge makes that reissue much easier to setup. Mine you couldn't intonate.
It's not difficult to set the intonation on the rosewoods. Pain in the arse, but doable.
With them being uncompensated, it's not perfect, but close enough for Rock'N'Roll goodness. Who plays a Danelectro above the twelfth without a slide anyway?
I've made intonated rosewood saddle replacements for Danos. No biggie.
But it's always easier to just bash them and complain.
I'm a drummer... I can appreciate what the Danelectro sound causes you to feel for the music.
Funny. I'm a 35 yr. former semi pro drummer. Every thing he played I put a rhythm to in my head! I just can't get drums outta me no matter how much I wanna learn guitar!
Absolutely amazing. That’s my next guitar. Beautiful sound.
My orange metal flake just arrived today after a year on backorder. I have several Danelectro’s the best manufacture is my first gen Korean U2. The quality is excellent on this gen too.
I clicked "buy" 4 minutes after seeing this video. Love the guitar!
LOL Im thinking the same thing
Lol nice, hope it is still going strong
That's a cool color for the sound palate. I kept wanting to hear it with different slides. Cool.
Thank you for doing this guitar justice. I swear Anderton's doesn't know what a chord is.
Cabby Cabby I enjoy andertons videos for entertainment, but after several years of viewing without them ever NOT liking something, and then their claims of the Marsha!l dsl40c ending, I don't really trust their videos.
There best video is when they review the fretless guitar. They're both drunk. They spend 20 minutes saying how the guitar is quite shit. Then at the end of the video realise that it has been way out of tune all along!
Well they dont usually cover cheap cardboard guitars like Danelectros
Andertons is an amazing channel Lee and Pete are awesome. Both entertaining and great players
When I was a little kid taking guitar lessons in the 1960's, the music school had a Dan Electro on display in their front window. I drooled over that guitar, but this one looks to be much better.
This is the BEST Danelectro review I have seen for the 59m. I have been sitting on the fence about purchasing a 59M-12. This review sold me on it. Thank you.
Bought the "Sweetwater Edition" about a year ago...antique white with a black "seal" pickguard. Had to have it...I learned to play my first song on my uncle's Silvertone version in the 60's.
I got the 12 string Dano and love it. It's got jangle to the moon at 1/5 the price of the next closest 12 string.
Love those Danelectros... even though I don't have one. Really dig the Mosrite-patterned versions they offer. Thanks Phil. Enjoying these earlier vids!
Played one today… in love instantly! It’s the NOS+ version. Thinking an Easter purchase may be in order…
I have a U1, a baritone, and a U3, bought in that order from 99-02. Love them all.
My god, this guitar is beautiful!
I love the color, the shape, the sound!
i love the danelectro headstock because it looks like if a tele was 3x3, i think that's why i find it so endearing
I think these guitars are so cool. I’ve been wanting to buy one for a while but the fact that they’re so cheap and I’ve just heard bad things about them in general. I trust Phil and want to believe him here though. I love how they look!
man always wanted to buy one of these ever since the n.o.s. reissues of the early 90's, does seem that the improvements you pointed out make for a better Dano.
Hey Phil, Just want to say thanks for your videos, I've watched a bunch of them.
You're living my dream, Phillip.
That new bridge is a game changer. I had the "older" version and got rid of it because of the flimsy bridge system. The nut was aluminum and the neck heel joint was pretty flimsy too. Was like a cheap banjo ... couldn't keep'er in tune. Good vid Phil.
I have a 1448 Dano made "Silvertone". Great guitar....super cool tone...and the amp still work (though you have to be careful with it). Love it! Glad to see the much improved bridge design.
My 5 guitars. Fretlight , Danelectrol , Rickenbacker , PRS , and Yamaha acoustic.
Dude! Based on your review I bought the exact guitar you review here. I love it. It's my 8th guitar! I'm impressed by the quality and the sound. My action was low. I didn't get the coasters nor the strings. I did get the poster. It does "come alive" in the middle position. I managed to pick it up for $350 new. It doesn't come with a case and Dan Guitars doesn't make cases. Thanks!
"Makes me want to play full open chords but electric" I have told many people the same thing about my 59! It has a strum quality that most electric guitars don't capture I love it, great video thanks!
my dad used to work at a recording studio twice a week at night, and he would bring me to help him as a chore for my allowance and what not, not to mention i just liked going there to see and secretly play with all the stuff. they had a vintage danelectro on the wall that looked like it was made out of heavy fabric. it sounded like garbage, but it looked so cool. they also had a vintage rickenbacker.
Uh oh. I was looking up light weight guitars and found your review. I already bought an amp on your recommendation for 350 bucks. This just pushed me over the edge. Linking to it now and buying it! Thank you as always my dude.
that middle position with the boost...love it! could seriously belt out some awesome tones. I'm thinking something like 1987-1991 They Might Be Giants twang. Speaking of -- happy birthday to John Flansburgh!
I have a Silvertone 1449 and I love it for all the same reasons you said.
I have one of these things (black) and it is really fun to play! It has this clunky retro look to it which I love, kinda sounds like a hollow telecaster -- maybe a little more trebly on the bridge pickup and deeper on the neck pickup (I'd say usable for jazz if you like). The guitar cost me under $500 (a few years ago) and is well worth it. I got the idea to play one from the guitarist in Southern Culture on the Skids. I really like the way it looks because few people play them -- they look so sears silvertony 60s like.
Interesting and unique. I love the extra long matching headstock. Agreed, the middle position seems to give the best tone.
I plugged in a dan electro once, fell in love with it. And its priced pretty competitively! Definitely my next guitar.
Hi Phil, I loved your video. I own a Dano '59 Psychedelic, I love it. They brought these guitars quite a few years ago into the UK, I haven't seen another one since. The psych paintwork covers everything, including the fingerboard. It is a replica of Eric Clapton's Dano when he was in Cream...
Page played a Danny on stage a lot, and I think a 12-string also?
Actually it's a copy of the '59 guitar Eric played with Blind Faith. Got one and love it.
Great video. You have a way of breaking things down. Rock on Phil!
Been waiting for this! Guitars been on my radar for quite sometime now, great review Phil.
Vintage Masonite sounds so much better than this new shit!
(Let's start the tone-fiberboard debate! ;-)
I laughed loud enough to attract attention.
Jan Minor "Tone fibreboard debate" hahaha!
Man I ain't like you old cats using vintage I use the new shit
That's fine it just means more vintage stuff for us old cats...
I got a 90's U2 reissue. I loaned it to my son for a while and I now got 'relic'd ' Masonite.
Relic'd Masonite sounds the best....
I own a Korean model from the original reissues from the 90s such a great cool guitar. The original reason I bought one was unplugged it’s still got decent enough volume for practice. The reason they have a unique sound in the middle position is I believe because the pickups are wired in series they replicate more of a humbucking vibe. Some years ago I picked up a brand new copy of Neptune Bound which goes into unbelievable in depth detail of the Danelectro brand. Oddly the book now sells for many hundreds of pounds.
I have a several danos from 98-99 and there made in korea. Danos are not completly hollow.they have a plywood frame.
Its solid from under the bridge to the rear strap button, its also solid at the cutaway horns , and of course the neck pocket
The masonite is about 1/4" thick. The trim around the sides is just plastic tape that hides the plywood frame. Its always
Amazed me how all these cheap materials can sound so good. Danelectros are world class guitars , just ask Mr. Page
He'll tell ya. The price is getting kinda high, in 98 I payed $200 to $225 the high price was a baritone. Im gonna date
My self, when I was 10 and learning to play you could by a new dc59. For $ 47!
Awesome that yours has the updated bridge. I have one of the first reissues, from the late nineties, with the lousy strip-of-wood bridge. Need to replace that and the input jack, then set it up to play slide. DADGAD is fantastic on these guitars.
1:55 My center-block Gretsch with Bigsby is definitely a boat anchor compared to my Dano. I love 'em both though!
Great video Phillip. I have a late 90's Korean reissue of a '56-U2 and love it to bits. As you say, it's not a Strat and it's not a Les Paul. I guess the nearest thing to it would be a Rickenbacker but even then it's not quite the same. I use mine for slide and it has a wonderfully glassy clean tone which is quite unique. Sometimes I add a bit of compression as these guitars don't have a great deal of sustain. Mine has the old-style bridge which is more difficult to intonate but retains a more original tone. You have to be a bit careful if you use heavier gauge strings as the bridge is only screwed into the central block with two normal wood screws and too much tension will rip the bridge out. I use Newtone Michael Messer Electric Slide Classics 013"-052" as they have a round core and put less tension on the bridge and the neck. It looks like the later models have a truss rod but the originals and the first Korean replicas (like mine) do not have one. It's a tribute to Nat Daniels's original design that very few of his guitars have neck problems. Like you, I love the middle position with both pickups on. You can use the volume and tone controls like a Les Paul to get a wide variety of sounds. If you want to dig deeper into the wonderful world of Danelectro guitars, read Doug Tulloch's "Neptune Bound" or check out his website on www.danelectro.guru/
Sick! I never expected this kid of video. I've own this model (except in Seafoam) and I love it! I've put mirrors on it to give it the Syd Barrett aura.
Once again a great video. I always appreciate the reviews of gear that you put out.
Trying to undue some of the damage The Captain and Chappers inflicted?
lol my mind went there immediately. those guys really didnt give dano a fair chance.
That video actually made me like the Danos even more, one of the best sounding jams they had in a long time. :p
Just watched that video. Shocking just how unprofessional those two were.
They just didn't get it did they. Lipstick pick ups on a Masonite body just produces something unique and wonderful. Pure clean sounds which make them the best sounding electric rhythm guitar of all time (probably). The Anderton twins have never heard the word 'rhythm' innit...... Lol
They are incapable of making any guitar sound good. And the humor got stale.
I have a 1960 U-1 with silvertone branding, man this is fun guitar, perfect couch guitar because it sounds great in-amplified.
Love those!!! $399 on Amazon and available in many colors!!! Totally retro!!! Great video, Phil!!!
The way it is wired gives you three radically different tones. First, yes, ignored the knobs. Dime them. That mid position is basically a wide-range humbucker. Good for that. But the bridge with an auto wah is trebley party time. And the neck with a proper fuzz is black light heaven. Enjoy.
Interesting bridge choice. Could swap to an Aluminum or Wrap around if you want more mid-dip, but it sounds great as is.
I’ve got a 12 string reissue- it sounds fantastic, it’s not a Rikenbaker but hell it only cost £350!!! I love it for those 60s numbers which is where it scores. If you want something different but can’t justify spending £2000+++ one of these or the 12 will float your boat!
I really love mine. Picked it up a couple of months ago. Local pawn shop for 135.00. Really cool for slide.
Thanks for showing in this video that playing a guitar should be fun! Too many of us have lost sight of that in the quest to become rock "gods" (in our own minds, anyway). Too late for me, so I'll just continue to have fun, too! Great vid!
I LOVE Danos, and I have a slightly earlier modal of this as well as the 64. They are great guitars with a unique sound. This is one of the best demo/reviews of a Danelectro guitar I have ever seen. Great work Phil.
Great video, Phil. Your work continues to amaze.
One of my first guitars was a 90s reissue Danelectro U2. Its a great first guitar because it’s just the right volume unplugged when you wanna practice thanks to the hollow body. Alas, upper fret access isn’t the best but, one should be able to access all 5 pentatonic boxes easily enough.
Right? I love these things. There's just something about them. They were extremely cheaply made in the 60's but they were designed in a way that gives them their own charm. And I love the sound of those pickups.
I’ve played a 59 dc deluxe most my life and wonderfully playable instrument with great tones, though I didn’t always find it very attractive with its faux wood Formica top. At some point I just found beauty in its pragmatic design and construction and it’s cheapness as a dept store guitar took on an appeal of its own.
Recently bought a 90s dc2 nos reissue and really impressed for $275. Not thrilled with the bridge out the gate, but going to get used to it or maybe seek alternative wrap around to try. Much more attractive without looking like an rv countertop. Lol
That Garage Grunge Tone was great. Gotta love the delta clean.
The pickups are wired in series ,so in the middle they effectively become a humbucker, good volume jump , and no one seems to mention the poplar wood skeleton, anyway
Yes, that middle position is amazing. But to be nitpicky, I'd say that the guitar would be even better with a humbucker in the bridge, either H-S-S or H-S, or H-H configuration. The single coil bridge pickup leaves a little to be desired. If it were a splittable humbucker, I think you would still be able to get that middle position tone that he gets in the video if you also had a single in the neck position.
Thanks so much for doing this vid - I fuckin' LOVE Danelectros! The DC59m nos will do me! Just had to adjust the bridge and pick up heights. I'm in love with these guitars!
I have a 12 string Daneletro, makes me sound good. I love my 12 string.
yep I got a red danelectro 12 string just lov it ..haven't changed anything it just is jangly & cool ..the poor mans Rickenbacker
Thanks Phil for the informative video on the Dano. The bridge pickup (in standard tuning that you demonstrated) sounds very much like a “Jerry Reed” kind of tone. Very cool!
Hi Phillip! Cool drink coasters... oh and decent guitar, too lol.
I bought online. I sent it back! Low e tuning key was too close to the next 12 string e.
The aluminum nut was not finished, the fret sprout was crazy. The side wrap was rough and not finished. The seller “ Detroit Guitar” assured me of their “12” step inspection. Now, these people said I horribly scratched the finish on top and bottom. The takeaway? Someone sent this guitar to them, they didn’t send it back. They protested my return, that I had scratched the finish! Video the unboxing!!!!
I bought from another company, this guitar was great.
A guitar store near me has a Danelectro like this, but it also has a Rickenbacker-like soundhole. The tag says "Danelectro 59M Spruce" and it's priced at $499.99. I tried it out in the store and I'm now giving serious consideration to buying it as my very first electric guitar.
Had a Danelectro I had to part with, but I've always loved them. Even their 'bad' years don't get the props they deserve. Unique guitars and underrated.
I dig the Dava pick. I used the same yellow one for a long time.
I own a late 90's early 2000's DC 59 Pro and it's different that yours or the original ones. It has a non recessed die cast bridge, Gotoh sealed tuners, and a maple, rather than poplar neck. The color is sparkle black.
I got a Dano baritone at the pawn shop... late 90's re-issue. I fixed it up and sold it to a friend. It was fun.
I’m not old enough to have a fiberboard tv back, but the cabinet the tv sat on had fiberboard on the back
Was checking this out because I got a NOS+ version. Love the demo. You are right they are great guitars. The reason the guitar "comes alive" in the middle position is because, unlike Teles or Les Pauls, the two pickups are wired in series not in parallel making the sound louder and darker, than if it was parallel.
BEAUTIFUL DANELECTRO GEETAR !
I have a 56 U2 in Red Crackle. I love it...second I got mine home, I also tuned down to play Kashmir. Fun guitars, enjoy!
I got a black 1 pickup double cutaway coke bottle head stock new Danelectro in 1967 for $75. As a poor guy I sold it for $25 in '69 to trade up for dual pickup guitars and humbucker ones one after another unlike today when I have several guitars and barely play at all. I wouldn't want this one for my only guitar but still missing the '67 I'd love to have this model to fool with. The three way switch on the 1 pickup was full treble cut / tone control active / no tone control or treble cut.
Thanks for being fair with this guitar, Andertons called it shit for 10 minutes before they played it, and when they did they played it without all the pedals they normally use, pissed me off
I live in Australia just bought one 600 au free delivery can' hardly wait hope I get some extra goodies
Great over view... Your song choices really showed off it's special tone.. Very cool guitar.
The DC bass is also a good choice for us older guys with brittle backs. And I've been able to get the tasty tones out of those lipstick pups.
I have admit I never really got the attraction of these quitars. I can see why someone else might like it though.
sparky191 it's a weird thing. A lot of people way back in the day started out on these and silvertones, they were really cheap starter guitars way back when. There's a lot of nostalgia playing into why people like these, it gives them a lot of mojo. Not to mention they look super unique, maybe not most people's idea of beautiful, but really attention grabbing at the least.
Good demo, thx for posting this. What a sharp git! I'd abuse it for Brit Invasion/ 1966 garage rock purposes, lol! I should get one. Can't get over how futuristic and stylish...salivates..
Great job with Zeppelin Phil... That is a cool guitar.
One reason the center position sounds so great is that the pickups are wired in series, so when they're both on its louder than either one alone. Most other guitars have the pickups wired in parallel so the middle position is a little quieter than the soloed pickups.
The reason it kicks ass in the middle position is 'cause the PUs are switched in series, sort of like a Tele with a 4 position switch. Great for slide, too.
That head in the back is pretty slick
6:40 Phil becomes 11 years old again, THIS is why we play guitar XD
Fat Mike from NOFX plays an old Danelectro Bass. I've always wanted one. Thanks for the demo, Phil!
Hooray for hardboard! Who'd a thunk it? Lol. Nice one Phil. Loving that cokebottle headstock shape too. So cool.