SAINTE-GENEVIÈVE-DES-BOIS, France
About this listing
Meticulously inspected and professionally set up by our guitar workshop, this guitar is a 2022 pre-owned model in mint condition.New strings installed (DR Strings 9–42).Overall condition: 10/10 Frets: 10/10 Truss rod: OK Electronics: OK 100% original, no modifications EVH Frankenstein Black Relic SeriesEddie Van Halen SignatureMade in Mexico (MIM) Serial Number: EVH2115730 Weight: 3.400 kg (7.5 lbs) SpecificationsType: Solid-body electric guitar, Fender Stratocaster-style Body Wood: Basswood Finish: Black Relic (artificially aged) Lacquer: Satin lacquer Neck: Quartersawn maple Neck Joint: 4-bolt bolt-on Neck Profile: EVH Modified "C" Neck Finish: Heavy Relic Lacquer Scale Length: 25.5" (648 mm) Fingerboard: Maple Radius: Compound 12"–16" (304.8–406.4 mm) Frets: 22 Jumbo Inlays: Black Dots Nut: Floyd Rose Locking Nut Nut Width: 43 mm (1.69") Bridge Pickup: EVH Wolfgang Humbucker (direct mount) Controls: 1 Volume (labeled "Tone") Bridge: EVH locking Floyd Rose tremolo EVH D-Tuna included (instant Drop D tuning) Tremolo Block: Brass Tuners: EVH / Gotoh Hardware Finish: Aged Chrome Talking about Eddie Van Halen without mentioning the Frankenstrat is nearly impossible. Few guitarists have left such a profound mark on the history of the instrument—not only through their revolutionary playing, but also through their fearless approach to guitar building. In the mid-1970s, Eddie sought an instrument that combined the best of two worlds: the comfort and ergonomics of a Stratocaster with the power of a Gibson humbucker. At a time when manufacturers offered nothing of the sort, he decided to build his dream guitar himself from spare parts. This homemade creation, later known as the Frankenstrat, would become one of the most iconic guitars of all time.The quartersawn maple neck is exceptional. Its EVH Modified C profile offers a remarkable balance of comfort and speed. Your hands glide naturally across the relic satin finish, giving the impression of an instrument that has been played for decades. Combined with the compound 12"–16" radius, it accommodates both open chords and extreme bends without any risk of fretting out.The basswood body plays a major role in the guitar’s sonic identity. Lightweight, resonant, and highly balanced, it produces a particularly lively midrange response. The instrument reacts instantly to playing dynamics, creating a direct connection between player and amplifier. It captures the explosive, high-energy character that defined Van Halen’s sound on the band’s early records.The true heart of the instrument, however, is the EVH Wolfgang humbucker mounted in the bridge position. There are no compromises here—just a single pickup placed exactly where it needs to be. The result is spectacular: massive rhythm tones, razor-sharp attack, and pinch harmonics that seem to leap out effortlessly. Under high gain, the pickup delivers a compelling blend of modern output and vintage character. Solos sing, notes remain articulate, and sustain feels virtually endless.The EVH Floyd Rose system is another major highlight. Stable, precise, and exceptionally reliable, it allows for every imaginable tremolo technique—from dramatic dive bombs to aggressive vibrato effects—without sacrificing tuning stability. The addition of the famous D-Tuna is a genuine bonus, enabling instant switching to Drop D tuning, a practical innovation directly inspired by Eddie Van Halen’s own solutions.Visually, the Black Relic finish is outstanding. The aging work is executed with convincing realism and avoids the exaggerated appearance sometimes found on relic instruments. The guitar immediately evokes the feel of a road-worn stage instrument that has survived hundreds of performances. Every mark seems to tell a story and contributes to the model’s unique aura.For Eddie Van Halen fans, this is far more than a signature instrument—it is a piece of modern rock history, built according to the principles that helped redefine the electric guitar. For everyone else, it is simply an outstanding high-end super-Strat, featuring an exceptional neck, a formidable pickup, and a distinctive voice that is instantly recognizable. A guitar that serves as a reminder that before endless options, gadgets, and marketing innovations, there was sometimes just a musical genius with a brilliant idea and a soldering iron.
Original Price€1,599
32% price drop
New Price€1,099
Incl. VAT
+ €59 Shipping
