G.E. Smith Owners Club - Page 2

blivitzmaker · November 23rd, 2008, 08:27 AM

new to the forum; fairly new to teles but hooked already. when you looked at that ebay "ge smith" what tipped you that it was a partscaster? i'm learning.... thanks!

Mike Eskimo · November 23rd, 2008, 08:37 AM

The guy admitted it. He maintains it was just a replacement body that he had relic'ed. That all the other stuff was from the GE Smith. The neck definitely was.

blivitzmaker · November 23rd, 2008, 08:48 AM

thanks for the quick reply. again, i'm hooked and looking for a good tele, either vintage (my history is vintage acoustics and hollow body electrics) or a great newer tele that is not just run of the mill, MIM, or other. saw ge smith's hawking his model on a youtube video and it interested me from a construction standpoint as he described it; PU directly in wood like old slab lap steel, etc. thanks again.

2tone60thAsh · November 24th, 2008, 08:47 PM

hey blivitzmaker, definitely try one out if you can! not for everyone, but if you dig a chunky neck, a hot set of pickups, and a uniquely setup Tele you'll probably love the GE model.

and get one in black, nobody seems to have one and they look killer!

Telehackster · November 24th, 2008, 10:08 PM

Blivitzmaker, my main Tele is a Custom Shop '58, but I have to say that the GE is of comparable quality. It is definitely not a run-of-the-mill guitar at all. 2tone is right: these are not for everyone, but it won't take you long after playing one to know if it's for you or not.

Oh, welcome to the forum!

TBoneDeluxe · November 25th, 2008, 03:54 AM

I've got a black one on the way. GE is giving it to me for work I do for him. I requested a black one. I can hardly wait! He emailed me a few weeks ago to let me know they were making another run of them, and that it shouldn't be long.

I'll post pics as soon as I get it.

Telehackster · November 25th, 2008, 09:44 AM

Very cool, TBone, and tell GE that it's time for another video blog!

Mike Eskimo · November 25th, 2008, 09:44 AM

For me it's all about the weight.

I know where two black ones are and, even though that'd be my color of choice, I passed on both of them.

One is 7 lbs 11 oz and the other is 7 lbs 15 oz. Too heavy for me.

My thought is this : For $1500+ you can get a used Custom Shop Nocaster w/ the same neck and they're always light.

I still want a GE Smith and that's my #1 target but no 8 pounders !

2tone60thAsh · November 25th, 2008, 12:28 PM

Coming from an upbringing of 10lbs+ Les Pauls, and having no back problems/health issues, weight was never really a concern. I believe Mellecaster weighed mine in at just above 7lbs so mine isn't hitting the 8lbs mark.

mellecaster · November 25th, 2008, 01:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 2tone60thAsh

Coming from an upbringing of 10lbs+ Les Pauls, and having no back problems/health issues, weight was never really a concern. I believe Mellecaster weighed mine in at just above 7lbs so mine isn't hitting the 8lbs mark.

To be Exact

Mike Eskimo · November 25th, 2008, 02:20 PM

See - that's fine.

7 lbs 8oz or 7 lbs 14oz is no no land.

I've just played so many Nocasters that they really sold me on the light body/huge neck thing.

Man those Dakota Reds are sweet !

2tone60thAsh · November 25th, 2008, 05:27 PM

There ya go, thanks Melle'!

I think all the finishes look great, I'd just like to see someone chime in with a pic of their black one. I've seen pics of them but haven't seen anyone post their own yet!

stevehuff69 · November 28th, 2008, 08:45 PM

Just ordered a blonde GE smith brand new from MF. 20% off through Monday for their Black Friday sale so I could not resist! It will be here Tuesday!

2tone60thAsh · November 29th, 2008, 11:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stevehuff69

Just ordered a blonde GE smith brand new from MF. 20% off through Monday for their Black Friday sale so I could not resist! It will be here Tuesday!

Awesome, congrats. Be sure to get some pics and post up the serial if you wanna be in the cool kid club!

stevehuff69 · November 29th, 2008, 11:52 AM

will do!

dokter B. · November 29th, 2008, 12:11 PM

Does anyone know if they are available in Europe?
I long to try one , but couldn't find it

doster · November 29th, 2008, 02:44 PM

No wild leads here, but nice tone and I love the cover of this Procol Harum classic.
This is really a cool band, when they go out again, check them out.
www.moonaliceband.com

geddins · November 29th, 2008, 03:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stevehuff69

Just ordered a blonde GE smith brand new from MF. 20% off through Monday for their Black Friday sale so I could not resist! It will be here Tuesday!

I went to the MF website and didn't see anything there about 20% off....can you give me the details?

Thanks

stevehuff69 · November 29th, 2008, 05:21 PM

It was an email special, good through Monday. 20% off any purchase over $1k - you get 15% off at $500 I think. You have to call only and give them the code which is MFBF.

2tone60thAsh · November 29th, 2008, 07:38 PM

Nice, I like the vid, and the price score through MF!

Mike Eskimo · November 29th, 2008, 07:51 PM

Just to be clear : $1280 ? Shipped ?

stevehuff69 · November 29th, 2008, 07:53 PM

I got it for $1279, shipping for Next Day Air Fed Ex was $28 I believe but ground was $8 or $10

geddins · November 29th, 2008, 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stevehuff69

I got it for $1279, shipping for Next Day Air Fed Ex was $28 I believe but ground was $8 or $10

EXCELLENT DEAL! I may have to go for one at that money.....

johnnytronics · November 29th, 2008, 09:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stevehuff69

It was an email special, good through Monday. 20% off any purchase over $1k - you get 15% off at $500 I think. You have to call only and give them the code which is MFBF.

YOWZA! Thanks for the heads up! Just ordered a red one for $1279!

2tone60thAsh · November 30th, 2008, 01:40 PM

Excellent, people! Be sure and post up the stats when they show up. Finally, we can see what the serial numbers are at, assuming MF has a newer batch of them.

Too cool!

geddins · November 30th, 2008, 01:57 PM

I'm really on the edge here....can someone tell me any REAL sonic differences in this model and say an Am Std? Is there any to really count?

I'm torn (like another member here) between a new GE and a used Nocaster....even though right now the used Nocaster is still a bit higher...I really really want to like the GE Smith.

So if anyone has any real-world experience with both please chime in.

2tone60thAsh · November 30th, 2008, 04:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by geddins

I'm really on the edge here....can someone tell me any REAL sonic differences in this model and say an Am Std? Is there any to really count?

I don't know anything about the science behind guitar tone (I think it's the player for the most part), but I'm sure there is some small difference in the sound dynamics because of the way the GE is setup. But in my experience, the GE Smith model just makes me play differently, in a good way. It's hard to explain, but it has made me a more precise, cleaner player. That is, it's one of those guitars that will bring out the shortcomings in your overall playing technique/style (or lack thereof) and as a result, I've been playing better. I'm not saying it's a hard guitar to play, but it takes some getting used to. Even my other Fender buddies have commented how different it is, not necessarily hard to play, but it's just different from an American standard; for example, bending takes more strength with a GE than my buddy's '06 American Std.

You just gotta try it to know what I'm trying to say. Basically, it forced me to put more into my playing, but as a result I'm getting more out of my playing efforts on the GE, and my other guitars.

If you're getting it from MF, you can always try it out an if you hate it or can't live with its nuances, then just send it back. That being said, I'd try to find one locally first, give it a whirl.

Thinliner · November 30th, 2008, 04:59 PM

Hey guys,

Don't know why it took me so long to post this, but hey, I'm a procrastinator!

Here is my prized GE that I won in last years giveaway. I absolutely love this guitar.

Ser# SV000173 on the neckplate. Thanks for lettin me join "the club!"
Don't forget to make a donation for this years drawing!

P1000075 800x600.jpg

mellecaster · November 30th, 2008, 08:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Thinliner

Hey guys,

Don't know why it took me so long to post this, but hey, I'm a procrastinator!

Here is my prized GE that I won in last years giveaway. I absolutely love this guitar.

Ser# SV000173 on the neckplate. Thanks for lettin me join "the club!"
Don't forget to make a donation for this years drawing!

Attachment 17062

Marty !!!...where you been Dude ?....Tony Mellichampe (Old forum name) from Maryland...I had forgot you won that....Very Cool........

Thinliner · November 30th, 2008, 08:34 PM

Tony Mellichampe,

Boy I sure do remember that name from the old forum days! Man, how ya been? Great to know you are still around. I see your new user name on here all the time, but I did not know that it was you, very glad you let me know that.

I catch up and read the TDPRI daily, but I almost never post. I don't have nuttin useful to say!

Tony, I hope you and your family have a very wonderful Christmas. Drop me an email sometime and we'll catch up!

Merry Christmas to all of you guys, and lets see some more GE Smith's!

Marty Land

2tone60thAsh · December 1st, 2008, 07:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Thinliner

Tony Mellichampe,

Merry Christmas to all of you guys, and lets see some more GE Smith's!

Marty Land

Hear hear!

And welcome to the Club, Marty! Tony's also a bud' of mine and he always takes care of my GE and Deluxe Strat (new addition, as of yesterday!). Nobody better for Fender fixin' around here!

brianeharmonjr · December 2nd, 2008, 01:22 AM

Ever since I saw the Youtube video of G.E. playing his, I've really wanted to try one. I must just have bad luck, but I've never even been in a shop that had one on the wall. I need to make a conscious effort to get my hands on one.

2tone60thAsh · December 2nd, 2008, 03:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brianeharmonjr

Ever since I saw the Youtube video of G.E. playing his, I've really wanted to try one. I must just have bad luck, but I've never even been in a shop that had one on the wall. I need to make a conscious effort to get my hands on one.

Yeah they aren't in too many shops, I've noticed the same.

Anyone in MD can feel free to try mine out sometime if they want

Mike Eskimo · December 2nd, 2008, 09:48 AM

Musician's Friend got me last night - auuuggghhh !

I hope they're as good as people say about their return policy.

I'm optimistic but if it's heavy it's goin' back (or if I see a used Nocaster cheap...)

Should be here end of the week.

Telehackster · December 2nd, 2008, 10:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brianeharmonjr

Ever since I saw the Youtube video of G.E. playing his, I've really wanted to try one. I must just have bad luck, but I've never even been in a shop that had one on the wall. I need to make a conscious effort to get my hands on one.

Brian, if you happen to be down in Kentucky, you should stop by Willcutt's in Lexington (about three hours from Indianapolis). They have a used one and could well have a new one in stock as well. I wouldn't make a special drive all the way across Indiana to go there, but if you happen to be somewhat in the vicinity the shop is worth checking out.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike Eskimo

I'm optimistic but if it's heavy it's goin' back (or if I see a used Nocaster cheap...)

Mike, I hope the guitar is as you wish it to be. If you would be content with a guitar in the 7.5 lbs range, then you likely won't be disappointed. It could well come in lighter than that. You just never know until you get your mitts on it!

2tone60thAsh · December 2nd, 2008, 10:44 AM

Nice, Mike! Let us know how it turns out!

stevehuff69 · December 2nd, 2008, 10:55 AM

Congrats Mike! What color? Mine should be here within an hour..waiting for fed ex now!

Also, I have returned 2 amps and 2 guitars to MF. Easy as 1-2-3. Only thing is if its not a defect you have to pay postage and you dont get your shipping refunded. But their return policy is no hassle. I e-mail them for an RA# and get it within a few hours. Dont even have to call.

Hope you get one you like, Ill report on mine soon!

doster · December 2nd, 2008, 12:51 PM

Here's the info on the guitar at Willcutts. No affiliation.

The guitar weighs 7 lbs 4 oz, and it's honey blonde. It's condition is EX+,sale price $1199

2tone60thAsh · December 2nd, 2008, 01:12 PM

steve, you must be goin' nut waiting for it!

doster- sounds like a pretty light one at Willcutts.

stevehuff69 · December 2nd, 2008, 01:35 PM

It arrived, along with the 57 Deluxe LE I ordered also. 57 LE was busted, wood cabinet cracked in three spots. Tubes were shot as well.

The GE, #67 embedded on the back plate - honey blonde. AMAZING!!!!! I have an Am Deluxe here that is going back tomorrow. Comparing the two..I like the fatter neck MUCH better, action on the GE is WAYYYYYYYY lower and plays EASIER, sound wise, its not as fat as the Am Deluxe but it seems to be more 3D or liquid. Looks wise, its a beauty and its lighter than my Am Deluxe as well. Not heavy at all. Looks like a custom shop guitar to these eyes. Also, my main worry was the pickups being buzzy. Nope, they are QUIET as the friggin noiseless on my Am Deluxe!

I am happy with this purchase and feel its a steal at the price. As for the 57 Deluxe LE amp, I got it for $1199 but its going back ASAP and Im keeping the princeton.

November 23rd, 2008, 08:27 AM	#41 (permalink)
blivitzmaker NEW MEMBER! Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: athens, tenn Posts: 2	new to the forum; fairly new to teles but hooked already. when you looked at that ebay "ge smith" what tipped you that it was a partscaster? i'm learning.... thanks! __________________ "Honey, I'm thinking about buying this one...it's an investment!"

November 23rd, 2008, 08:48 AM	#43 (permalink)
blivitzmaker NEW MEMBER! Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: athens, tenn Posts: 2	thanks for the quick reply. again, i'm hooked and looking for a good tele, either vintage (my history is vintage acoustics and hollow body electrics) or a great newer tele that is not just run of the mill, MIM, or other. saw ge smith's hawking his model on a youtube video and it interested me from a construction standpoint as he described it; PU directly in wood like old slab lap steel, etc. thanks again. __________________ "Honey, I'm thinking about buying this one...it's an investment!"

November 29th, 2008, 02:44 PM	#57 (permalink)
doster Tele-Holic Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Pittsburgh Posts: 643	G.E. with Moonalice, nice tone No wild leads here, but nice tone and I love the cover of this Procol Harum classic. This is really a cool band, when they go out again, check them out. www.moonaliceband.com __________________ “You don't find a style, ... a style finds you.” Keith Richards

November 30th, 2008, 01:57 PM	#66 (permalink)
geddins Friend of Leo's Join Date: May 2005 Location: Texas Age: 47 Posts: 2,524	I'm really on the edge here....can someone tell me any REAL sonic differences in this model and say an Am Std? Is there any to really count? I'm torn (like another member here) between a new GE and a used Nocaster....even though right now the used Nocaster is still a bit higher...I really really want to like the GE Smith. So if anyone has any real-world experience with both please chime in. __________________ www.myspace.com/gregeddins

November 30th, 2008, 04:59 PM	#68 (permalink)
Thinliner TDPRI Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Tullahoma, TN Age: 46 Posts: 74	Better late than never! Hey guys, Don't know why it took me so long to post this, but hey, I'm a procrastinator! Here is my prized GE that I won in last years giveaway. I absolutely love this guitar. Ser# SV000173 on the neckplate. Thanks for lettin me join "the club!" Don't forget to make a donation for this years drawing! P1000075 800x600.jpg

November 23rd, 2008, 08:37 AM	#42 (permalink)
Mike Eskimo Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Detroit Age: 45 Posts: 1,472	The guy admitted it. He maintains it was just a replacement body that he had relic'ed. That all the other stuff was from the GE Smith. The neck definitely was.

November 24th, 2008, 08:47 PM	#44 (permalink)
2tone60thAsh Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Maryland, USA Age: 23 Posts: 308	hey blivitzmaker, definitely try one out if you can! not for everyone, but if you dig a chunky neck, a hot set of pickups, and a uniquely setup Tele you'll probably love the GE model. and get one in black, nobody seems to have one and they look killer!

November 24th, 2008, 10:08 PM	#45 (permalink)
Telehackster Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Texas Age: 43 Posts: 1,163	Blivitzmaker, my main Tele is a Custom Shop '58, but I have to say that the GE is of comparable quality. It is definitely not a run-of-the-mill guitar at all. 2tone is right: these are not for everyone, but it won't take you long after playing one to know if it's for you or not. Oh, welcome to the forum!

November 25th, 2008, 03:54 AM	#46 (permalink)
TBoneDeluxe Tele-Meister Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Indianapolis, IN Age: 43 Posts: 438	I've got a black one on the way. GE is giving it to me for work I do for him. I requested a black one. I can hardly wait! He emailed me a few weeks ago to let me know they were making another run of them, and that it shouldn't be long. I'll post pics as soon as I get it.

November 25th, 2008, 09:44 AM	#47 (permalink)
Telehackster Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Texas Age: 43 Posts: 1,163	Very cool, TBone, and tell GE that it's time for another video blog!

November 25th, 2008, 09:44 AM	#48 (permalink)
Mike Eskimo Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Detroit Age: 45 Posts: 1,472	For me it's all about the weight. I know where two black ones are and, even though that'd be my color of choice, I passed on both of them. One is 7 lbs 11 oz and the other is 7 lbs 15 oz. Too heavy for me. My thought is this : For $1500+ you can get a used Custom Shop Nocaster w/ the same neck and they're always light. I still want a GE Smith and that's my #1 target but no 8 pounders !

November 25th, 2008, 12:28 PM	#49 (permalink)
2tone60thAsh Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Maryland, USA Age: 23 Posts: 308	Coming from an upbringing of 10lbs+ Les Pauls, and having no back problems/health issues, weight was never really a concern. I believe Mellecaster weighed mine in at just above 7lbs so mine isn't hitting the 8lbs mark.

November 25th, 2008, 02:20 PM	#51 (permalink)
Mike Eskimo Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Detroit Age: 45 Posts: 1,472	See - that's fine. 7 lbs 8oz or 7 lbs 14oz is no no land. I've just played so many Nocasters that they really sold me on the light body/huge neck thing. Man those Dakota Reds are sweet !

November 25th, 2008, 05:27 PM	#52 (permalink)
2tone60thAsh Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Maryland, USA Age: 23 Posts: 308	There ya go, thanks Melle'! I think all the finishes look great, I'd just like to see someone chime in with a pic of their black one. I've seen pics of them but haven't seen anyone post their own yet!

November 28th, 2008, 08:45 PM	#53 (permalink)
stevehuff69 Tele-Meister Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: IL Age: 40 Posts: 174	Just ordered a blonde GE smith brand new from MF. 20% off through Monday for their Black Friday sale so I could not resist! It will be here Tuesday!

November 29th, 2008, 11:52 AM	#55 (permalink)
stevehuff69 Tele-Meister Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: IL Age: 40 Posts: 174	will do!

November 29th, 2008, 12:11 PM	#56 (permalink)
dokter B. Tele-Meister Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: The Netherlands,Europe Age: 49 Posts: 137	Does anyone know if they are available in Europe? I long to try one , but couldn't find it

November 29th, 2008, 05:21 PM	#59 (permalink)
stevehuff69 Tele-Meister Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: IL Age: 40 Posts: 174	It was an email special, good through Monday. 20% off any purchase over $1k - you get 15% off at $500 I think. You have to call only and give them the code which is MFBF.

November 29th, 2008, 07:38 PM	#60 (permalink)
2tone60thAsh Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Maryland, USA Age: 23 Posts: 308	Nice, I like the vid, and the price score through MF!

November 29th, 2008, 07:51 PM	#61 (permalink)
Mike Eskimo Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Detroit Age: 45 Posts: 1,472	Just to be clear : $1280 ? Shipped ?

November 29th, 2008, 07:53 PM	#62 (permalink)
stevehuff69 Tele-Meister Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: IL Age: 40 Posts: 174	I got it for $1279, shipping for Next Day Air Fed Ex was $28 I believe but ground was $8 or $10

November 30th, 2008, 01:40 PM	#65 (permalink)
2tone60thAsh Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Maryland, USA Age: 23 Posts: 308	Excellent, people! Be sure and post up the stats when they show up. Finally, we can see what the serial numbers are at, assuming MF has a newer batch of them. Too cool!

November 30th, 2008, 08:34 PM	#70 (permalink)
Thinliner TDPRI Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Tullahoma, TN Age: 46 Posts: 74	TONY! Tony Mellichampe, Boy I sure do remember that name from the old forum days! Man, how ya been? Great to know you are still around. I see your new user name on here all the time, but I did not know that it was you, very glad you let me know that. I catch up and read the TDPRI daily, but I almost never post. I don't have nuttin useful to say! Tony, I hope you and your family have a very wonderful Christmas. Drop me an email sometime and we'll catch up! Merry Christmas to all of you guys, and lets see some more GE Smith's! Marty Land

December 2nd, 2008, 01:22 AM	#72 (permalink)
brianeharmonjr TDPRI Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Marion, IN Age: 24 Posts: 12	Ever since I saw the Youtube video of G.E. playing his, I've really wanted to try one. I must just have bad luck, but I've never even been in a shop that had one on the wall. I need to make a conscious effort to get my hands on one.

December 2nd, 2008, 09:48 AM	#74 (permalink)
Mike Eskimo Tele-Afflicted Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Detroit Age: 45 Posts: 1,472	Musician's Friend got me last night - auuuggghhh ! I hope they're as good as people say about their return policy. I'm optimistic but if it's heavy it's goin' back (or if I see a used Nocaster cheap...) Should be here end of the week.

IMPORTANT:Treat everyone here with respect, no matter how difficult! No sex, drug, political, religion or hate discussion permitted here.

December 2nd, 2008, 10:44 AM	#76 (permalink)
2tone60thAsh Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Maryland, USA Age: 23 Posts: 308	Nice, Mike! Let us know how it turns out!

December 2nd, 2008, 10:55 AM	#77 (permalink)
stevehuff69 Tele-Meister Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: IL Age: 40 Posts: 174	Congrats Mike! What color? Mine should be here within an hour..waiting for fed ex now! Also, I have returned 2 amps and 2 guitars to MF. Easy as 1-2-3. Only thing is if its not a defect you have to pay postage and you dont get your shipping refunded. But their return policy is no hassle. I e-mail them for an RA# and get it within a few hours. Dont even have to call. Hope you get one you like, Ill report on mine soon!

December 2nd, 2008, 12:51 PM	#78 (permalink)
doster Tele-Holic Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Pittsburgh Posts: 643	Here's the info on the guitar at Willcutts. No affiliation. The guitar weighs 7 lbs 4 oz, and it's honey blonde. It's condition is EX+,sale price $1199 __________________ “You don't find a style, ... a style finds you.” Keith Richards

December 2nd, 2008, 01:12 PM	#79 (permalink)
2tone60thAsh Tele-Meister Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Maryland, USA Age: 23 Posts: 308	steve, you must be goin' nut waiting for it! doster- sounds like a pretty light one at Willcutts.

December 2nd, 2008, 01:35 PM	#80 (permalink)
stevehuff69 Tele-Meister Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: IL Age: 40 Posts: 174	It arrived, along with the 57 Deluxe LE I ordered also. 57 LE was busted, wood cabinet cracked in three spots. Tubes were shot as well. The GE, #67 embedded on the back plate - honey blonde. AMAZING!!!!! I have an Am Deluxe here that is going back tomorrow. Comparing the two..I like the fatter neck MUCH better, action on the GE is WAYYYYYYYY lower and plays EASIER, sound wise, its not as fat as the Am Deluxe but it seems to be more 3D or liquid. Looks wise, its a beauty and its lighter than my Am Deluxe as well. Not heavy at all. Looks like a custom shop guitar to these eyes. Also, my main worry was the pickups being buzzy. Nope, they are QUIET as the friggin noiseless on my Am Deluxe! I am happy with this purchase and feel its a steal at the price. As for the 57 Deluxe LE amp, I got it for $1199 but its going back ASAP and Im keeping the princeton.