2nd Sterling Valetine day

[telemike]

Had to send back the first Valentine as there were some QC defects. Thanks to Dubaldo Music, who I might say is the best retailer I've dealt with, took it back and sent out a replacement. The new one is near perfection. I love the way this guitar feels, plays and sounds. It takes me back to my first real guitar in 1986, a Robin Ranger.

 

[PeteDuBaldo]

I'm glad this one is working out for you, it has some serious mojo - thanks for giving the JV60 a second chance!

 

[telemike]

Pete, yes it has the mojo.

And you are the best online retailer I've ever ordered from. No question where I'll go to buy another SBMM or EBMM.

 

[spychocyco]

Dig that neck. I wish all the roasted necks on the SBMMs were that nice, but then I'd probably be even poorer than I am. I, too, am a former Robin owner, Raider II. Can't say I really miss mine, though, the neck was a beast, and not in a good way.

 

[beej]

Pete is amazing, no doubt about it. Best guitar I've ever had came from Pete

 

[telemike]

I'm not a huge fan of bent steel saddles. I may go Graphtec or maybe if I can find some brass ones

 

[edhalen]

I'm not a huge fan of bent steel saddles. I may go Graphtec or maybe if I can find some brass ones

Mike - I replaced the saddles with Graphtec string savers along with Schaller tuners and a pickup swap (stock tuners and pups are fine - just wanted Schallers and more of a rock sound). Make sure you get the 2 1/16" width saddles. This guitar ROCKS!

Yes - Pete is THE MAN! He is the best!

 

[telemike]

Thanks for the tip. I am curious about the Tusq white saddles from Graphtec. Bent saddles sometimes have that pingy sound.

I love the bridge pickup. That is perfect for me. The neck bucker is good too, probably won't change that either. I wonder what the specs on the these are? I am curious as to what the bridge pickup looks like under the cover. I imagine it's probably a strat bobbin?

 

[telemike]

The Valentine design is magical. I think it will be an underrated classic someday. All the features come together in harmony. The body shape and wedge back, pickups and controls, the neck, etc. all come together and inspire.

 

[Tollywood]

That's a really great neck.

 

[edhalen]

 

[telemike]

I am going to swap out the saddles for some Fender ones that don't have the string notch. I'm getting some pingy overtones on a couple saddles.

Otherwise, I love the Valentine. Really suits my style. I prefer a bright and punchy bridge pickup, and the neck pickup sings without being muddy.