Benedetto Howard Alden 2005

Built in 2005 during Benedetto’s brief Fender Custom Shop era, this Howard Alden 7‑string model is one of only a tiny handful ever produced: three, by most counts. Designed in collaboration with Alden himself, it’s a scaled‑down archtop built for comfort, with about a 14½" lower bout, Florentine cutaway, and a depth just over two inches. Laminated curly maple top and back, solid maple sides, three‑piece maple neck, ebony appointments, and Benedetto’s own B7 humbucker keep the recipe classic, while the extra string expands the range into Alden’s signature territory.

Howard Alden came up in Southern California before moving to New York in the early ’80s, quickly cementing himself as one of the most respected mainstream and swing guitarists of his generation. A student of the late George Van Eps, Alden embraced the seven‑string in the early ’90s and never looked back.

This example is in excellent condition, plays effortlessly, and has that articulate yet warm Benedetto voice that sits perfectly under both a comping hand and a melodic line, if you’re so deftly inclined.

Incredible condition, as it was built for the original owner, who is selling it with us. Original hard shell case.