In the world of music, many iconic instruments have emerged that have left an indelible mark on the industry. Perhaps one of the biggest game-changers in the guitar world was Vantage guitars, with distinct design and quality construction that made them a favorite among players of all genres. But who was the mastermind behind Vantage guitars, and what led them to create such a unique product?
It turns out that Vantage guitars were actually a product of Japan, first introduced in the 1980s. The company was a subsidiary of the larger Matsumoku Musical Instrument Company, which had a long established reputation for creating high-quality instruments. Vantage guitars featured unique designs that made them stand out from other models on the market, with an emphasis on ergonomic shapes that were comfortable for players of all sizes.
What made Vantage guitars truly special was the attention to detail in the manufacturing process. Each instrument was crafted with precision, using high-quality materials and an eye for design that helped them compete with some of the biggest names in the industry. Though Vantage guitars are no longer produced today, they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of musicians who appreciate their unique sound and feel.
History of Guitar Making
The instrument we know today as the guitar has a long and fascinating history that spans thousands of years and countless cultures. Its evolution can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where early stringed instruments were developed and refined over time. However, it wasn’t until the Renaissance period in Europe that the guitar as we know it began to take shape.
During this time, a number of innovations such as the use of frets and the introduction of six strings laid the foundation for the modern guitar. In the centuries that followed, the guitar continued to evolve and became a popular instrument in Western music, with various styles such as flamenco, classical, and folk emerging across different regions.
The birth of electric guitar also marked a significant milestone in the history of guitar making. Invented in the 1930s, the electric guitar allowed musicians to amplify and distort the sound of the instrument like never before, revolutionizing popular music in the process.
Over the years, many notable guitar makers have emerged, each with their own unique style and approach to crafting high-quality instruments. One of the most respected and renowned names in the industry is Vantage Guitars.
Who Made Vantage Guitars
- Vantage Guitars was founded in the 1970s in Japan, during a time when Japanese manufacturers were making a name for themselves in the global guitar market.
- The company was known for its high-quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and affordability, which helped it gain a loyal following among musicians of all skill levels.
- Many Vantage Guitars models were based on classic American designs, such as the Stratocaster and Telecaster, but with their own unique twists and features.
Vantage Guitars Today
While Vantage Guitars may not be as well-known as some other brands today, its legacy lives on among musicians and collectors alike. Vintage Vantage Guitars are highly sought-after for their quality and craftsmanship, and many musicians continue to use them in studios and on stages around the world.
In recent years, Vantage Guitars has also made a comeback of sorts, with some of its classic models being reissued and updated for the modern era. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner just starting out, a Vantage Guitar is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable instrument with a rich history and tradition behind it.
The Future of Guitar Making
As we look towards the future of guitar making, it’s clear that this timeless instrument will continue to evolve and innovate in exciting new ways. From advancements in materials and manufacturing techniques to the rise of digital technology and new playing styles, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a guitar player or enthusiast.
Regardless of what the future holds, one thing is certain: the legacy and tradition of guitar making will continue to be passed down from generation to generation, inspiring and enriching the lives of musicians and music lovers for many years to come.
Introduction of the Vantage Brand
Vantage was a guitar brand that emerged in the 1970s during the golden age of Japanese guitar manufacturing. These guitars were well-regarded in the industry for their high-quality craftsmanship and unique designs.
- Vantage guitars were manufactured by Matsumoku, a Japanese instrument maker that produced guitars for various brands during the 1970s and 1980s.
- The brand was founded by a gentleman named Saint Louis Music (SLM), who was also responsible for importing a number of Asian guitar brands into the United States at the time.
- SLM wanted to create a brand of guitars that would appeal to American musicians, and he enlisted the help of Matsumoku to bring his vision to life.
Initially, the guitars were relatively affordable and were favored by many beginners and intermediate players. However, over time, the brand expanded its offerings and began producing higher-end models that gained the attention of professional musicians.
Vantage guitars were known for their innovative designs and features that set them apart from other guitar brands. One of their most notable designs was the Vantage Excel Series, which featured a unique laydown headstock. These guitars were also known for having high-quality components, including pickups from brands such as Seymour Duncan and DiMarzio.
| Year | Notable Model |
|---|---|
| 1978 | Vantage Avenger |
| 1983 | Vantage Ghost |
| 1984 | Vantage VA912 |
Despite their popularity in the 1980s, the Vantage brand eventually faded away as the Japanese guitar market declined. However, their guitars still have a dedicated following among collectors and musicians who appreciate their unique designs and high-quality craftsmanship.
Vantage Guitar Models
Vantage guitars were originally produced in Japan, most likely in the late 1970s or early 1980s. The company was owned by Matsumoku, a well-known Japanese instrument manufacturer that also produced guitars for other brands like Aria, Westone, and Vester.
There were many Vantage guitar models produced, each with their own unique features and designs. Here are some of the more popular models:
- Vantage Avenger: This guitar had a double cutaway body and was available in a variety of finishes, including natural wood, black, and red. It featured humbucker pickups, a maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
- Vantage VA900: This was a semi-hollow body guitar with a single cutaway. It had a sunburst finish and featured two humbucker pickups, a maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
- Vantage VP770: This guitar had a Les Paul-style body with two humbucker pickups, a maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard. It was available in several finishes, including black, sunburst, and metallic blue.
The Legacy of Vantage Guitars
Although Vantage guitars are no longer in production, they are still highly sought after by collectors and musicians alike. The quality craftsmanship and unique designs of these guitars have stood the test of time, and many players still consider them to be some of the best instruments ever made.
In fact, some famous musicians have used Vantage guitars over the years, including Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits and Elliot Easton of The Cars.
Vantage Guitar Model Comparison Table
| Model | Body Shape | Pickups | Neck Material | Fingerboard Material |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avenger | Double cutaway | Humbuckers | Maple | Rosewood |
| VA900 | Semi-hollow | Humbuckers | Maple | Rosewood |
| VP770 | Les Paul-style | Humbuckers | Maple | Rosewood |
As you can see from the table, each Vantage guitar model had its own unique characteristics, but they all shared the same high standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Vantage Guitar Features and Specifications
Vantage guitars were originally produced by the Matsumoku Company in Japan during the 1970s and 1980s. The company was known for creating high-quality instruments, and Vantage guitars are no exception. Here are some notable features and specifications of Vantage guitars:
- Body: Vantage guitars are often made with solid wood bodies, such as mahogany or maple. Some models also feature laminate or plywood bodies.
- Neck: The necks of Vantage guitars are typically made of maple and feature a rosewood or ebony fretboard.
- Pickups: Vantage guitars feature a variety of pickups, including single-coil and humbucker designs. Some models also have coil-splitting capabilities for added versatility.
One of the most notable features of Vantage guitars is their affordability. Despite their high-quality construction and features, Vantage guitars were often priced lower than many comparable instruments of their time.
In terms of specifications, Vantage guitars were available in a wide range of models and configurations. Some of the most popular models included the Vantage Avenger, Invader, and Performer. Many Vantage guitars also featured unique body shapes and designs, such as the Vantage VS-695B bass guitar.
| Model | Year Produced | Body Wood | Neck Wood | Pickup Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avenger AV-310 | 1979-1980 | Alder | Maple | 2 humbuckers |
| Invader 727 | 1984-1986 | Basswood | Maple | 2 single-coils, 1 humbucker |
| Performer VP700 | 1980-1985 | Alder | Maple | 2 single-coils, 1 humbucker |
Overall, Vantage guitars are well-regarded for their quality, affordability, and versatility. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, a Vantage guitar is a solid choice.
Popularity of Vantage Guitars
When it comes to quality guitars, Vantage is a name that often comes up. There are many reasons why this brand has become so popular over the years. Let’s take a look at some of the factors that make Vantage guitars a popular choice for musicians.
- Quality Construction: One of the main reasons why Vantage guitars have gained popularity is due to their quality construction. These guitars are made with high-quality materials and attention to detail. They are built to last and provide excellent sound quality.
- Affordability: Despite their high-quality construction, Vantage guitars are often more affordable compared to other high-end brands. This makes them accessible to a wider range of musicians who may not have the budget to invest in more expensive guitars.
- Versatility: Vantage guitars offer a variety of options that cater to different playing styles and genres. From jazz to rock to metal, there is a Vantage guitar model that suits different needs. This versatility makes them a popular choice for musicians who need a guitar that can handle various playing styles.
- Design: Vantage guitars are known for their unique designs that set them apart from other guitar brands. They offer a vintage look that many musicians find appealing. The designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also contribute to the overall sound quality of the guitar.
- Jackson Connection: Vantage guitars were manufactured by Matsumoku, a Japanese company that also produced guitars for Jackson, Aria, and Westone. This connection has helped to solidify Vantage’s reputation as a quality guitar brand.
Overall, the popularity of Vantage guitars can be attributed to their quality construction, affordability, versatility, unique design, and the company’s connection to other reputable guitar brands. These factors make Vantage guitars an excellent choice for both beginner and professional musicians.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality construction | Not as well-known as other guitar brands |
| Affordable | May not have as wide a range of options as other brands |
| Versatile | |
| Unique design | |
| Connected to reputable guitar brands |
While Vantage guitars may not be as popular as some of the bigger names in the industry, they have certainly made a name for themselves with their quality construction, affordability, versatility, and unique design. For anyone looking for a good quality guitar at an affordable price, Vantage is definitely a brand worth considering.
Notable Musicians who play Vantage Guitars
Throughout the years, Vantage guitars have been used by a variety of popular musicians across various genres. Here are just a few notable musicians who have played Vantage guitars:
- Prince – The late Purple One was known to play a Vantage VSH-455 in the 80s.
- David Byrne – The Talking Heads frontman used a Vantage Avenger during the band’s “Stop Making Sense” tour.
- Glenn Frey – The late Eagles guitarist and vocalist played a Vantage VS-695 in the 80s.
While these are just a few examples, they demonstrate the versatility and quality of Vantage guitars. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the models that have gained popularity among musicians:
The Vantage Avenger is a solid body guitar that features a unique offset design and two humbucker pickups. David Byrne used this guitar extensively on the “Stop Making Sense” tour, and its distinct sound can be heard all over the band’s live album and concert film of the same name.
Another popular Vantage model is the VSH-455. This double cutaway guitar is often associated with Prince, who used it on many of his recordings and live performances in the 80s. The guitar features three single coil pickups and a tremolo bridge.
| Musician | Guitar Model |
|---|---|
| Prince | VSH-455 |
| David Byrne | Avenger |
| Glenn Frey | VS-695 |
Overall, Vantage guitars have made their mark in the music world by delivering high-quality instruments that work for a wide range of playing styles and genres. Whether you’re a funk guitarist looking for a funk sound, or a singer-songwriter looking for something more mellow, Vantage has a guitar that will work for you.
Vantage Guitars in Today’s Market
With a history dating back to the early 1970s, Vantage Guitars has come a long way since its founding in Japan. Today, the brand is known for its high-quality, affordable instruments that cater to musicians of all levels and styles. Here are a few key things to know about Vantage Guitars in today’s market:
- Vantage Guitars are still being produced and sold today, despite the brand’s heyday being in the 1980s and early ’90s.
- The brand’s current lineup includes a mix of electric and acoustic guitars, as well as basses.
- Vantage Guitars are often praised for their build quality, particularly the craftsmanship of their necks and fretwork.
While the brand may not be as ubiquitous as some of its competitors, Vantage Guitars has built a solid reputation among musicians and collectors alike. If you’re in the market for a quality instrument that won’t break the bank, a Vantage Guitar could be worth checking out.
For a closer look at some specific models, here’s a table comparing a few popular options:
| Model | Body Material | Pickups | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| AV-325 | Ash | 2 Humbuckers | $500-$700 |
| VA-912 | Maple | 3 Single-Coils | $350-$500 |
| VB-400 | Alder | 1 Split-Coil, 1 Single-Coil | $300-$450 |
Of course, these are just a few of the many options available in the Vantage Guitars lineup. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, there’s likely a Vantage Guitar that can meet your needs.
Who Made Vantage Guitars?
1. Who founded Vantage Guitars?
Vantage Guitars was founded by Matsumoku Industrial Company in Japan in the late 1970s.
2. Are Vantage Guitars still being made?
Unfortunately, Vantage Guitars ceased production in the mid-1990s.
3. What type of guitars did Vantage produce?
Vantage Guitars produced a wide range of electric and acoustic guitars, including solid body, hollow body, and semi-hollow body models.
4. Were Vantage Guitars good quality?
Yes, Vantage Guitars were known for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative features.
5. How can I identify a Vantage Guitar?
Vantage Guitars often had distinctive headstocks and unique designs, but the best way to identify one is by the brand name on the guitar.
6. Are Vantage Guitars collectible?
Yes, Vantage Guitars have developed a cult following amongst collectors and musicians alike, and certain models can fetch high prices on the used market.
7. Where can I find Vantage Guitars?
Since Vantage Guitars are no longer in production, the best place to find them is through online marketplaces or vintage music shops.
A Final Note
Now you know who made Vantage Guitars! While they may no longer be in production, their legacy lives on through the music created on their instruments. Thanks for reading, and be sure to visit again soon for more fascinating music history.