James Tyler Studio Elite Michael Landau signature - serial #12 1992 - Psychedelic Vomit

1992 James Tyler Studio Elite Michael Landau signature - Psychedelic Vomit - serial #12

A PIECE OF L.A. SESSION HISTORY – HAND-BUILT BY JAMES TYLER

For the discerning collector of boutique instruments, this is a landmark opportunity to acquire a foundational piece of the James Tyler legacy. This 1992 Studio Elite is part of the very first run of the iconic "Psychedelic Vomit" finish—an aesthetic so synonymous with the era’s elite session players that it was originally designated as the "Michael Landau Signature" model. Carrying serial number #12, this guitar dates back to the dawn of the 1990s, handcrafted by James Tyler during Landau’s absolute prime as the world’s premier session musician.

The provenance of this instrument is deeply etched into its very marrow. The neck pocket, dated January 13, 1992, bears the handwritten signature of James Tyler himself alongside the designation "Landau NAMM SHOW." Crafted specifically for the 1992 NAMM show, this guitar was built to represent the absolute pinnacle of Tyler’s work to the industry. It features the highly sought-after "Large 59" neck profile, providing the substantial, vintage feel that has since become a hallmark of the Tyler playing experience.

The "Psychedelic Vomit" finish was a revolution in guitar aesthetics, limited to a run of approximately 70 specimens in this specific initial iteration. This particular example remains a vibrant, tactile testament to Tyler’s artistic eccentricity. While the finish is a collector's dream, the guitar remains a formidable tool for the stage and studio. 

At some point a pair of DiMarzio DP402 pickups in the neck and bridge positions—the specific sonic choice of Landau during his Burning Water era—and a Fender Custom Shop Fat 50 in the middle position were installed, but the guitar has now been brought back to the original configuration, thanks to the guidance of Rich Renken from Tyler Guitars, comprising its three original CTS pots from the early 90s, two Seymour Duncan Classic Stack STK-S4n for neck and middle position, and the SHR-1b Hot Rails in bridge position. The pickups are all wired in series, and a treble bleed is installed in the volume pot. It has the original Wilkinson VS100 bridge assembly and the classic Gotoh Tuners.

This guitar represents the moment when the boutique guitar industry was being redefined. As a low-digit serial number instrument with direct NAMM provenance, built entirely by the hands of James Tyler, its investment potential is matched only by its incredible playability. The guitar comes protected in its original black hardshell case and stands as one of the most significant Tyler instruments to reach the open market in recent years.

A quintessential masterpiece for the serious Tyler enthusiast.

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