ZB (Zane Beck) Custom 1970s - Natural - Owned By Thad Maxwell

This stunning vintage ZB Custom pedal steel guitar was previously owned by Thad Maxwell, steel guitarist for the Flying Burrito Brothers and many other projects. Instruments with this kind of direct connection to country-rock history don’t come up often, and this one is a gem.

Condition & Playability

• Overall Condition: Very good vintage condition with only light wear consistent with age.
• Mechanism: Smooth and precise—the changer stays in tune and plays beautifully.
• Tone: Absolutely classic ZB—rich, glassy highs, vocal mids, and a warm low end that’s instantly recognizable on records. From crying ballads to punchy Bakersfield-style leads, this guitar delivers it all.
• Case & Extras: Includes the original hard shell case plus extra parts for maintenance or setup flexibility.

Specifications

• Brand/Model: ZB Custom
• Neck(s): D-10
• Finish: Classic ZB lacquer finish with custom high end pearl binding
• Era: Early 1970s build, during the heyday of ZB Customs.

Historical Significance of ZB Custom Steels

The ZB Custom brand was created by Zane Beck, one of the most influential pedal steel builders and innovators in history. Known for their unique changer design and signature tone, ZB steels became a favorite of professional players in the late 1960s and 1970s. Their tone is often described as sweet, vocal-like, and dripping with sustain—perfect for both traditional country and the emerging country-rock sound of the era.

Famous ZB Players

ZB Customs have been played by some of the most legendary names in pedal steel history, including:

• Tom Brumley (Buck Owens, Rick Nelson & the Stone Canyon Band) – one of the most iconic ZB tones ever recorded.
• Red Rhodes (Michael Nesmith, James Taylor, countless LA sessions).
• Rusty Young (Poco) – a pioneer of steel in country-rock, heavily associated with ZB.
• Sneaky Pete Kleinow (Flying Burrito Brothers) – though mainly associated with his Fender 400, he also used ZB steels in the LA scene.
• Buddy Emmons (briefly in his career, though more associated with Emmons guitars).
• Al Perkins (Manassas, Emmylou Harris, Flying Burrito Brothers).
• JayDee Maness (Buck Owens, Desert Rose Band).

Having been owned by Thad Maxwell of the Flying Burrito Brothers, this ZB not only carries the legendary tonal DNA of Zane Beck’s instruments but also a direct tie to one of the most important bands in the development of country rock.

Why This Guitar Stands Out

• A true ZB Custom, known for one of the sweetest pedal steel tones ever built.
• Owned and played by Thad Maxwell, adding significant provenance.
• Comes with original case + extra parts.
• Fully functional, smooth playing, and ready to record or gig.
• A rare chance to own a piece of pedal steel and country-rock history.

📦 Ships promptly, pro-packed, and fully insured.