Washburn WP-50 1990

1990 Washburn WP-50 – Samick Korea | Early Korean Craftsmanship | Vintage Set-Neck Single Cut

(New photos later today)

Offered here is a 1990 Washburn WP-50 with some minor dings( Headstock and binding contour), built by Samick in Korea during what many players regard as the golden era of Korean guitar manufacturing. Produced in relatively limited numbers, these early WP models have earned a reputation for their exceptional build quality, excellent wood selection, and long-term reliability.

Built during the period immediately following Washburn's well-known "lawsuit era" single-cut designs, the 1990 WP-50 carries forward the same classic aesthetic while introducing its own distinctive identity. These early Korean-built models are increasingly appreciated by players and collectors for offering vintage-inspired design, outstanding craftsmanship, and excellent value.

The guitar features a solid nato body topped with a beautifully figured arched flame maple veneer, paired with a set nato neck and rosewood fingerboard. This classic combination delivers rich sustain, a balanced midrange, and the lively acoustic resonance expected from a well-built set-neck instrument. The comfortable 24.75" scale, traditional Tune-o-Matic bridge, stopbar tailpiece, and vintage-style Kluson tuners complete a timeless specification that feels instantly familiar.

The original Washburn Classic ceramic humbuckers remain intact, preserving the guitar's authentic voice. The bridge pickup is a powerful high-output unit (approximately 14–15kΩ), producing tight bass, focused upper mids, and the articulate compression associated with late-'80s and early-'90s rock guitars. The neck pickup (approximately 8–9kΩ) offers warmth, clarity, and smooth sustain, making it equally at home with clean passages, blues-inspired phrasing, and expressive lead work. Together they deliver a dynamic, versatile tonal palette with the unmistakable character of quality vintage ceramic humbuckers.

Specifications

- Year: 1990

- Made in Korea by Samick

- Solid nato body

- Arched flame maple veneer top

- Cherry Sunburst Top colour

- Set nato neck

- Rosewood fingerboard

- 24.75" scale length

- 22 frets

- Tune-o-Matic bridge

- Stopbar tailpiece

- Vintage-style Kluson tuners

- Dual original Washburn Classic ceramic humbuckers

- Two Volume, Two Tone controls, three-way toggle switch

The 1990 WP-50 represents an increasingly sought-after era of Korean guitar production. With its premium set-neck construction, classic styling, and powerful original pickups, it offers the feel, tone, and craftsmanship of instruments that often sell for considerably more. Whether you're a player looking for a dependable vintage workhorse or a collector searching for an underrated gem, this WP-50 is a guitar that punches well above its weight.