YAMAHA SA-1200 1980+ made Semi-Acoustic Guitar
Around 1980, fusion music gained global popularity, and renowned guitarists
like Larry Carlton and Lee Ritenour extensively used the GIBSON ES-335
semi-acoustic on the West Coast of the United States. This prompted guitar
manufacturers worldwide to produce copy models of the ES-335. Notable Japanese
brands like GRECO, FERNANDES, ARIA, and YAMAHA joined the trend, aiming
to create semi-acoustic guitars that surpassed the renowned GIBSON models.
YAMAHA made a noteworthy role in product development during this era. The SA-1200 model, introduced in 1980es, exemplifies this commitment. Priced at 120,000 yen, the SA-1200 featured a distinctive spruce veneer on the top, setting it apart from its counterparts.
The decision to repurpose hardware from the popular SG series, already favored by overseas endorsers, further contributed to the SA-1200's success. Superior specifications compared to the original GIBSON ES-335 made the YAMAHA SA series highly popular in Japan, attracting both amateur and professional players.
The SA series comprised four types, with the top models SA-2000 and 1200 boasting a solid spruce top plate, making them exceptionally complete guitars.
Regarding the SA-1200's condition, there are instances of cloudiness in the top coat and some dents on the body, consistent with its 40-year age. The previous owner replaced the PU selector switch, and while there are no cracks in the paint on the neck attachment area, the guitar remains in relatively good condition.
The inclusion of a genuine YAMAHA case from that time adds historical value
to this piece.
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