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i have a trade on the line, and although i think i'm coming out ahead in the exchange, i thought i'd ask around for a second opinion.

i found a 1963 jazzmaster in a local shop, and i'm offering a 1976 marshall jmp mkii 50watt head in trade...it's looking like a go, and i will finalize it next week. the guitar is in poor condition. the tuning machines look they may need to be replaced. the vibrato is sticking (doesn't pop right back up when released). the pots and pickup switch are very scratchy. above all, i believe it's a refinish job. it's a very old refinish job, because it's extremely checked with lots of little fault lines all over. it's an interesting color with sort of a sparkle in it. definitely unusual.

my marshall is not perfect either. the ouput transformer has been replaced with a mercury magnetics. only 1 of the 4 input jacks is functional. i believe it's been re-tolexed because it's just too perfect for it's age. also, the tubes in it are nothing special.

so there's the deal. am i nuts? or would i be nuts to pass? i realize i might get a different reply on a vintage marshall forum...but i'm asking here!

thanks.

Personally, i think you are getting a good deal. The post 73 marshalls arent worth as much as the earlier stuff, and never will fetch the same prices (circuit boards vs point to point).

If i was in the same position, id snap that guitar up without thinking about it.

I think you're definately getting a good deal. Both pieces of gear sound like they're more "working man" than uber-collectable, so the only way you'll lose is if you are trading in your main gigging amp for a guitar you won't play. The street price of the jazzmaster is definately higher.

thanks guys. i think i'm going to go for it.


...now stay tuned for the restoration questions

I'd be all over that one!

Get a couple cans of DeOxit for all the electronics and soak them down good for a couple days before you move them any more than they have been. Once they're de-oxidized, they just might work good as new. Don't force ANYthing when taking it apart. Even if you get some lubricant on the wood it'll be better than stripping out screws that you have to drill out - very risky proposition. Take your time and be glad you scored such a good deal.

Cheers

Hope you get/got it...I have a '65 Jazzmaster and I love it!

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Search the net for guides on how to properly set up the vibrato tailpiece...there's one really helpful one online somewhere.