Recording King Model 681 (1934)

Description

The brief era in which Recording King was owned by Gibson is a fascinating chapter in the company's history, and also aligns with some of their best and most sought-after instruments. Take this 1934 Model 681 for instance - it sits remarkably close to Gibson's storied L-00, albeit with a slightly wider upper bout and a floating, archtop-style tailpiece. But while the aesthetics may take after classic Gibsons and Kalamazoos, the sound is uniquely vintage, with a tone that sits closer to a pre-war archtop guitar than to a modern flat-top by virtue of its ladder bracing and punchy maple construction. This is one of the jazziest acoustic flat-top steel strings we've ever had in our store, with a vibrant bite that seems to excel when put to the test with closed chords, close voicings, and even gypsy-style backup. We can't wait to hand it off to its next owner.

This instrument arrived in our store in excellent condition relative to its age, with no structural damage or significant cosmetic damage to speak of whatsoever. Minor cosmetic playing wear, as is to be expected, is fairly uniform throughout, but is well below the norm for an instrument approaching its centennial. Finish checking is consistent with most old Gibson finishes, although the lack of checking on the neck indicates that it may have been sprayed over sometime within the last 50 years. All parts appear to be original, including the floating pickguard, the tailpiece, and the floating, non-adjustable ebony bridge. Playability is excellent, with comfortable, low-medium action. Included in the price is a non-original, Superior hard-shell case, which far outstrips the original chipboard case which would've been included with the guitar at the time of its initial purchase.

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*