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Danelectro Vintage Baritone Guitar (Dark Aqua)

The Danelectro Vintage Baritone is a single-cutaway, semi-hollow electric guitar featuring a 29.75-inch scale length designed for low-tuned performance. Finished in Dark Aqua, it utilizes high-output Lipstick pickups and a signature 'S' sound hole to deliver a resonant, articulate voice with high harmonic detail.

Danelectro Vintage Baritone Guitar Dark Aqua
Danelectro Vintage Baritone Guitar Dark Aqua
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Overview

The Danelectro Vintage Baritone in Dark Aqua is a modern iteration of the brand's historically significant baritone instruments. Characterised by its elongated neck and semi-hollow construction, the guitar is designed to be tuned lower than a standard electric—typically B-to-B or A-to-A—while maintaining structural integrity and playability. The model is distinguished by its 'S' sound hole and lightweight body, balancing retro aesthetic sensibilities with contemporary hardware like a fully adjustable bridge.

Design and Construction

Built around a 29.75-inch scale length, this instrument provides significantly higher string tension than standard guitars, ensuring that low-register notes remain clear rather than muddy. The body features a single-cutaway design for upper-fret access and a hollow construction that contributes to its acoustic resonance. The Dark Aqua finish provides a distinctive 'vintage' look, complemented by the functional addition of a fully adjustable bridge, which allows for precise intonation across the extended scale.

Electronics and Sound Profile

The guitar is equipped with two high-output, high-impedance Lipstick pickups. These pickups are central to the Danelectro sound, known for producing a 'signature snap' and bright top-end. In a baritone context, these electronics provide tight low-frequency response and clear mid-tones. The result is a 'piano-like' quality in the lower register, where chords sound expansive and single-note lines retain enough bite to cut through a musical mix. The hollowbody resonance further enhances the sustain and harmonic complexity of the output.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Danelectro catalogue, the Vintage Baritone serves as a stylistic alternative to the Longhorn Baritone series, which features a radical double-cutaway 'horned' body shape. While the Longhorn is available in finishes such as Copper Burst and Black Burst, the Vintage Baritone offers a more traditional single-cut silhouette. It is also available in Gloss Black and Vintage White for players seeking different aesthetics, though all share the core baritone specifications and Lipstick pickup configuration.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the scale length of the Danelectro Vintage Baritone?
The guitar features a 29.75-inch scale length. This extended length is essential for maintaining proper string tension when tuning to lower registers such as B or A.
What type of pickups are used in this model?
This model is equipped with two high-output, high-impedance Lipstick pickups. These are designed to deliver a combination of tight lows and a characteristic treble 'snap'.
How does the 'S' sound hole affect the tone?
The 'S' sound hole indicates a semi-hollow construction, which provides lightweight resonance and focused projection. It adds a woody, airy quality to the sound compared to a solid-body guitar.
What is the typical tuning for this baritone guitar?
While it can vary based on string gauge, it is typically tuned a perfect fourth (B-E-A-D-F#-B) or a perfect fifth (A-D-G-C-E-A) lower than a standard guitar.
Is the bridge adjustable on the Vintage Baritone?
Yes, the guitar features a fully adjustable bridge. This allows the player to fine-tune the intonation for each individual string, which is critical for the accuracy of an extended-scale instrument.
What finish does this specific model come in?
This specific version features a 'Dark Aqua' finish. It is part of a range that also includes Gloss Black and Vintage White options.
How does the body design impact playability?
The single-cutaway body provides easier access to the higher frets. The hollow construction also makes the instrument relatively lightweight and comfortable for long playing sessions.
What is the sound character of the lower register?
The lower register is described as 'piano-like' and 'bold'. The combination of the long scale and high-impedance pickups ensures that deep chords remain articulate and clear.
How much does the Danelectro Vintage Baritone typically cost?
The typical price range for this model is approximately GBP 589. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and regional taxes.
How does this model differ from the Danelectro Longhorn Baritone?
The primary difference is the body shape; the Vintage Baritone uses a single-cut design with an 'S' sound hole, whereas the Longhorn uses a symmetrical double-cutaway shape. They share similar scale lengths and electronics.
Is this guitar suitable for high-gain music?
While often used for surf, roots, and pop, the high-output Lipstick pickups and tight low-end response make it capable of handling various genres, though the hollow body may be prone to feedback at extreme volumes.
What is the primary benefit of the 29.75-inch scale?
The primary benefit is string tension; it allows the user to play in low tunings without the strings becoming too loose or 'floppy', which preserves note definition and sustain.

Sources

  1. Danelectro (manufacturer website)
  2. MyGear catalogue and retailer price data

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