Mike Lipe was a legendary Californian luthier who gained his reputation during over 40 years of his career in Yamaha, Ibanez USA Custom Shop, Hofner, Fender, and other brands. In the early 2000s, he established his brand, under which he produced guitars the traditional way (without CNC machines). Yet, without sacrificing the quality of instruments. His instruments were famous for smart design ideas (Such as brass inserts in the neck for better contact of the bolt-on construction), precision, and most of all - the great musicality of his products. Taking one into your hands you can easily tell you're in the presence of an instrument made by a top craftsman.

This particular model, Virtuoso Classic, combines the traditional double-cut body type with the attitude of a superstrat. The drop top body with rounded edges is more conservative, while the stunning top connecting features of a birdseye and a flamed maple catch your eye. The neck starts as a soft V and develops into a chunkier C along the neck. Pickups are exquisite, delivering the midrange richness in the neck and middle position, cutting through the mix easily. The humbucker in the bridge position reminds you of the glory days of PAF - slightly nasal, edgy, and pleasantly compressing, making notes pop out smoothly.

There are certain properties of this guitar that can't be put into words, you simply have to experience it. Long sustain, clarity, pleasant, rich sound - something that seasoned players looking for top-notch studio and stage guitar will appreciate.

Specification:

• Body: Alder, solid body with bent top
• Top: Curly maple
• Neck: Hard Rock Maple, quarter-sawn
• Fretboard: Indian rosewood
• Fretboard radius: 12"
• Scale length: 25.5"
• Electronics route: rear route
• Pickups: Amalfitano
• Bridge: Wilkinson
• Tuners: Hipshot Locking
• Nut: 1 5/8" Graphtec TUSQ
• Color: Honey burst (Pat Wilkins finish)
• Hard case and certificate included