The history of the Yamaha SG and the lineage of legendary models

first,YAMAHAWhen creating their original electric guitars, they were told by the then-president, Genichi Kawakami, that "everything must be original."

That's also possible.YAMAHA SGIt continues to evolve as a highly original and unique model. Yamaha's guitar history dates back to 1946 with the manufacture of classical guitars. Fifteen years later, in 1961, they began producing the Dynamic Guitar. (The Dynamic Guitar is a model that allows steel strings to be strung on a classical guitar.) The Dynamic Guitar was made incorporating the resonance theory of the surface diaphragm, for which guitarist and composer Osuke Ito obtained a patent. A prototype was completed in 1952, but mass production did not begin until 1961. Five years later, in 1966, they began selling the FG acoustic guitar. Coinciding with the folk boom of the late 1960s, the FG was used to meet many needs from the beginning.

A year earlier, in 1965, Yamaha established an electric guitar development team.1965That year was also the year The Ventures made their first visit to Japan with their full lineup, and the electric guitar boom hit Japan. Using the development technology they had used to create classical guitars and dynamic guitars up to that point, the team was just established.1Years later1966year4monthYAMAHAThis was the first electric guitar(S-201/S-302)We will release it to the world.

Yamaha electric guitars became widely known to the public with the "Blue Jeans Custom" model, which appeared in the movie "Eleki no Wakadaisho" (Young General of Electric Guitars), released in December 1965. Incidentally, the Blue Jeans Custom was created by a specialized team separate from the regular Yamaha electric guitar production team, and the team was disbanded upon the completion of the guitar. Subsequently, the ever-popular Blue Jeans Custom was commercialized in August 1966 with the release of the SG-5/SG-7.

In the 1970s, with events such as Led Zeppelin's first visit to Japan, the demand for electric guitars in Japan increased. Around this time, companies like Greco also began selling Les Paul copy models, and there was a growing need for authentic, high-quality electric guitars rather than just original designs.

Therefore, Yamaha decided to completely redesign the SG. In April 1972, they released the SG-40/SG-60/SG-80. The SG-80 and others featured a single-cutaway body shape similar to a Les Paul, with a German carve-like rim.
The SG from this period was nicknamed "Daruma" due to its body shape. After Led Zeppelin's visit to Japan in 1972, Japanese electric guitar brands began to focus on copy models.

Even amidst all this, Yamaha continued to pursue originality, releasing the SG-30/SG-35 in November 1973.
These bodies feature a symmetrical double-cutaway shape, which is a precursor to the current SG body shape. About a year later, in November 1974, the SG-175, considered the origin of the current SG, was released. The SG-175 incorporates many features that symbolize the SG, including its archtop body and shape, as well as arrow position markers. The SG-175 was the perfect product for users. However, Yamaha did not stop there and continued to strive for even greater heights. The first step in this process was to bring the SG-175 to Carlos Santana and ask for his opinion.

Santana then commented, "The SG is too light, so it doesn't have enough sustain. It needs to be more robust." Yamaha continued to listen attentively to Santana's opinions and received an order from him. The result was the Buddha SG. The Buddha SG was based on the SG-175 with minor specification changes, and featured a large Buddha inlay on the body top. Several prototype Buddha SGs were made, but the final specifications included a T-cross one-piece neck, a sustain plate under the bridge, and OPG-1 pickups. The above features were also included in the SG-2000, which was released later.RecruitThis specification demonstrates Carlos Santana's significant contribution to the history of the Yamaha SG.

Santana and BuddhaSGBy using it in live performances and other events, people overseas have been asking, "What is that guitar?"?!This became a hot topic,YAMAHAWe also receive a great many requests from people saying, "I want the same guitar as Santana." In response to these requests, we started selling the following:SG-2000is.

SG-2000It was released1976year7month,SGSales have begun.1966Approximately10Years have passedSGIt will finally be completed.SG-2000is BuddhaSGIt strongly reflected the specifications and was a product that met user demands.
SG-2000Six months after sales began,SG-500/SG-700/SG-1000It will be released.this3The model has a set neck structure.RecruitAndSG-2000This will differentiate it from others.SG-1000It now features bi-sound and direct circuitry.YAMAHA SGAs a representative modelSG-2000They stand shoulder to shoulder.

In the 1980s, hard rock/heavy metal began to become truly popular, and amplifiers/EffectorAs the diversification of signal generators increases, signal generators (SGs) face a major problem: feedback.
Having always adapted to changing times and evolving needs, Yamaha went through a process of trial and error before releasing the SG-3000 in September 1982. The SG-3000 was introduced as the flagship model in the SG series. With its new arrow position markers and luxurious abalone binding around the perimeter, it truly had the look and feel of a top-of-the-line model.

Of course, they also took an approach from a sound perspective, using Yamaha's newly developed Spinex magnet and nickel silver.BassIt features a plate-type pickup. The pickup cover is now fully covered instead of the previous open type, and paraffin treatment has been applied to reduce the likelihood of feedback.
The Yamaha SG, which has seen the release of various variations since then, is undoubtedly an indispensable series when discussing the history of electric guitars in Japan.

1966year4month S-201/S-302 (Release1months laterSG-2andSG-3Changed the model name.) Release

1966year8The "Blue Jeans Custom" model was repurposed for commercial sale in the month of [year].SG-5/SG-7Release

1972year SG-40/SG-60/SG-80

1973A full model change was carried out this year.SG30/SG35Released

1974year11modern moonYAMAHA SGIt could be called the perfected version.SG-175Sold

1976year SG700/SG1000/SG2000 Release

The SG1000 Metallic Blue is a limited edition color produced in November and December of 1982 and September of 1983, with only 460 units produced.
Metallic Blue was the first limited-edition color released for the SG1000, and it reportedly excited Masayoshi Takanaka's fans when it was first released.

The SG1000 was released in 1976, the same year as the SG2000. The SG2000 featured a T-cross one-piece neck construction (the so-called through-neck).RecruitIn contrast to that, the SG1000 has a set neck structure.RecruitWhile most of the parts are the same as those used in the SG2000, it lacks a sustain plate and features a simpler construction with a two-piece maple top and mahogany back.

The SG1000 features a direct circuit and bi-sound. The direct circuit completely isolates the audio signal from the ground when the Volume and Tone are set to full 10. This prevents high-frequency components from being grounded, resulting in a brighter sound. The bi-sound feature allows for coil tapping using a push/push Tone pot. Both of these features are new to the SG1000.RecruitIt was done.

Although it is a set neck, it is also secured with bolts, but this is1983They disappear from the middle of the year onwards.

YAMAHA SGWhile continuing in that lineage,SG2000To clearly differentiate it, "set neck"SGThe model that established "SG1000is.

Sound Impression

Set neck structure,PUAlnicoVtoAWG #42This combination results in a tone that is close to classical, but you can feel that the midrange response is similar to that of other Japanese manufacturers from that era.

SGCombined with its unique tightness, the balance between the sustain and crispness when distorted is very satisfying.The power output is relatively high, so even when switching to bi-sound mode, you won't notice a significant drop in power, and it's perfectly usable.

[SPEC]
BODY: Maple Top/Mahogany Back
NECK: Maple/Mahogany 3P
FINGERBOARD: Ebony
PICKUP: OPG-I

The SG2000 Deep Purple is a limited edition color produced in July and August of 1981, with only 600 units made.
In 1980, to commemorate the 4th anniversary of the SG2000's release, limited edition models in black and blue were sold—the first limited editions for the SG series. Therefore, the Deep Purple is the third limited edition model of the SG2000. Aside from the color, the specifications are the same as other SG2000 models.

The SG2000 was first released in 1976.
Carlos Santana played a significant role in the creation of the SG2000. At the time, Santana was using an SG175 and commissioned Yamaha to create a custom-made guitar for him.
And that's how "Buddha SG" was created.
SG2000 is Buddha SGRecruitIt incorporates many of these elements and was developed with the concept of being an "electric guitar that can be used by professionals."
It possesses many elements that were not present in previous SG models.
A typical feature is the [T-cross one-piece neck structure].RecruitThis guitar features a neck-through construction, but with a separate piece of wood glued to the top of the body, making it appear as if it's not a neck-through design from the front. The T-cross one-piece neck construction eliminates the step at the neck heel, making it easier to access the higher frets while also aiming for long sustain.

A metal plate called a sustain plate is attached under the bridge.This part was developed with the idea that sustain would be extended by creating as much of a loop as possible for the vibrations of the strings to be transmitted.

As mentioned aboveSG2000A unique feature is "BuddhaSGThis was a feature that had already been incorporated into ", and howSG2000This shows that she was aiming to become a model who could succeed professionally.

Sound Impression

I expected the SG2000 to have a tighter, more metallic sound compared to the SG1000 because of the sustain plate, but the SG2000 has a better overall balance across the frequency range and an even more classic sound. You can feel the wood vibrating properly from the sound output, and there's a slight compression, so you can appreciate the character not only with distortion but also with clean tones.

I myself first learned about the Yamaha SG when I saw John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers holding this SG2000 Deep Purple on the cover of the May 2014 issue of Guitar Magazine. Therefore, I still remember how incredibly excited I was the first time I saw a DP.

[SPEC]
BODY: Maple Top/Mahogany Back
NECK: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD: Ebony
PICKUP: OPG-I

The underlying modelSG1000X。

SG1000Xteeth1984Released in [year]SG1000This model was the first to feature a tremolo unit, and the neck heel is also different from the usual.SG1000Unlike other shoes, these have a heel-less design with no steps or uneven surfaces.

VOW WOWThis was custom-ordered by Kyoji Yamamoto.SG3000It was created with this as its motif.1985Year150This book is sold exclusively.SG2000The first artist model was Masayoshi TakanakaSG2000MTHowever,YAMAHAThis is the first time they have officially sold something under the artist's name.SG1000XYModel by Tsuyoshi ToujikiSG1000XUThis is my first time.

The tremolo unit is1983Developed in [year]2Equipped with a point-support locking unit.The head also features a locking mechanism that attaches above the nut.Mr. Kyoji YamamotoSG3000The nut itself is a locking type, so there is a difference there, but the personSGtoo2It is equipped with a point-support tremolo unit.

Perhaps its greatest appeal is this fretboard.baseSG1000XThe fretboard inlays use standard arrow inlays,SG1000XYis the personSG3000It also features arrow inlays arranged in reverse.

The reason why there is abalone between the arrow inlays is1982Released in [year]SG3000Most of these are high-end models, and the ones that are embedded upside down are...SG1000XYThis is the only specification available.

Mr. Kyoji YamamotoSG3000Similarly24It has frets and the fretboard has been extended, so the frontPUThe position is closer to the bridge than usual. As a result, the usualSG1000Compared toPUand rearPUThe space between them is narrowing.
The regular line during this era was Spinex.PUIt is equipped with,SG1000XYandSG1000XUAlnicoVMagnetPUIt is equipped with this feature.

Controls2 Volume, 1 ToneThis one tooSG1000XYonlyRecruitIt features a streamlined control layout and also includes bi-sound functionality.

Sound Impression

Others equipped with a tremolo unitSGThey are taking a completely different approach.SG1000XYteeth,This time, I will introduce4This track has the most powerful and hard-edged sound in the entire book.Because of its powerful output and the inclusion of a tremolo unit, using the bi-sound feature really brings out the single-coil characteristics.

When distorted, it certainly maintains a tight tone, but the high-mid frequencies come to the forefront, resulting in a tone that isn't too harsh on the ears.

[SPEC]
BODY: Agatis
NECK: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD: Rosewood
PICKUP: Alnico V Pickup

The basis for it is, of course, the SG2000.
T-cross one-piece neck and under the bridgeBassThe distinctive structural features of the SG2000, such as the plate, have been retained.

This model is a reproduction of the Takanaka Blue SG2000 that Masayoshi Takanaka used from 1979.The SG2000MT, the first artist model in the SG2000 series, was released in 1998 in a limited edition of 220 units.It was actually created by taking measurements of the original Takanaka Blue SG2000 that Mr. Takanaka owned.
The truss rod cover also features a special cover with the word "TAKANAKA" in blue lettering.

YAMAHA SGUp until then, it had continued to incorporate evolution.[novelty]I have pursued this to the fullest extent,SG2000MTWhen releasing[Reissue]This model was created from a perspective that was the complete opposite of what had been done before.Therefore, not just as an artist model,[Reissue]In that respectYAMAHAYou can also feel the effort that went into it.SG2000MTThat's one of its charms.

The tuning pegs were originally installed on the Takana Blue model.OMG-I In order to get as close to the peg as possible,TM-57GInsteadR TypeIt is equipped with this feature.

1990The mounting holes for the control pots, which were discontinued in the mid-2000s, have been revived.

PUteethSG2000MTSpecially made for this purposePUIt is equipped with a double white bobbin, and one of its distinctive features is that it is similar to other bobbins from the same period.SGThe same nickel silver as the Spinex pickup installed in the vehicle.BassWhile using a plate, magnetsOPG-ISimilar to AlnicoVUsing2tsuPUIt has a structure that combines the best aspects of both.

AlsoSG2000MTA high-pass capacitor is attached to it.this isSG2000MTThis specification is unique to this model and is one of its features not found in other models.

The aboveSG2000MTFrom then onSG2000alsoRecruitBecause the specifications will be changed accordingly,SG2000MTteethYAMAHA SGThis is one of the models that significantly changed the indicators.

Afterword

When it comes to limited edition models and limited edition colors, we tend to focus on the appearance, butYAMAHA SGI was able to reaffirm that they take a sound-related approach with the actual musicians who play the instruments in mind.

Moreover, doing so while putting into practice the company philosophy of "being original in everything" isYAMAHAThat's precisely why I felt it was possible.SG1000It seemed like a pioneering example of high-end Japanese audio, with features like bi-sound. Various artists...YAMAHA SGThe fact that they are using it is proof of that, I think.

In writing this article, I referred to the book written by Shigeru Terada.YAMAHA SG graffitiI used "[this]" as a reference.YAMAHA SGThis publication is essential for anyone wanting to learn about this instrument. As stated on the book's cover, it is truly a book that should be preserved for future generations as a permanent keepsake.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude.