Nevin,

I think the idea of an early MusicMaster is cool, but I think you might be able to do better pricewise or be able to get a nicer one for what they are asking. I saw several this past weekend at the Arlington show that were in pretty nice condition in the same price range.

Some purists turn their nose at collecting early non-Strat or Tele guitars, because of the "student guitar" image, but my thoughts are if the late '50's Strats and Tele's were built as nice as everybody claims (and I think they are), why would the MusicMaster or DuoSonic be of lesser quality? I'm guessing they same guy or gal built either, or all, in the course of the early Fender production line. I'm guessing the quality of most of the raw inputs were the same as well.

Who knows - did Abby Ybarra wind the pups only for Strats, or did her handywork at winding pups go to different models? Probably the same guy that cut the bodies for the Tele's cut the bodies for the MusicMasters, same guys layed down the paint, etc.

I say if you can find the right one for the price, grab it. It's not going to devaluate any in value. Plus, you've got a neat piece of early Fender history.

...just my humble opinion...

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Old age and treachery will win every time over youth and enthusiasm.

"You can never have too many Tele's." A quote from my Sweetwater Sales Engineer

Keep an eye on eBay. Search DuoSonic, Duo Sonic, MusicMaster and Music Master. There is usually a pretty good selection.

I'm not afraid to buy a guitar off the Bay. Look for a nice guitar priced right along with a buyer that's got a good trade history. Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions and even get a phone number to talk and ask questions.

You'll hear the purists say "I'd never buy a guitar without playing it first." My response is "Really - how 'bout your latest Custom Shop purchase? Did you play that before you plunked down your cash and waited 6 months?" "Oh, I see. Of course. That's different..." Yup. Always an exception to their rules of wisdom...

Don't be afraid of eBay. Find one, if it checks out good and feels right - grab it!

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Old age and treachery will win every time over youth and enthusiasm.

"You can never have too many Tele's." A quote from my Sweetwater Sales Engineer

I see nothing wrong the idea of buying that guitar. It apparently has been played alot and there could be a good reason for all that play wear and mojo. It may have been an outstanding guitar for someone.

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"My mind is a raging torrent, flooded with rivulets of thought cascading into a waterfall of creative alternatives." Blazing Saddles...

I do too. I recall many years ago playing a Duosonic and a Telecaster Bass....nice instruments.

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Being able to play and enjoy music is a gift that's often taken for granted.

Don't leave home without it!

If she feels like the one - grab her, hold on tight, and don't worry what anybody else has to say. That's my advice for guitars, cars and women!

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Old age and treachery will win every time over youth and enthusiasm.

"You can never have too many Tele's." A quote from my Sweetwater Sales Engineer

Given it's non stock status and other problems, it does seem a bit expensive--but for significantly less--well it would be cool.

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It wasn't Willy-Nilly, it was at crows.

I agree, Bide your time and the guitar you really wont will come along.

That's all you needed to say, you should get it.

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Tune Low, Play Hard & Floor it!

I'd go for it,the Musicmaster is a sweet sounding little guitar.I'd try to get the price down a little though.

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'65 Strat,65 Mustang,65 Jaguar,4 more Strats,3 vintage Vox guitars,5 Vox amps,'69 Bassman with a '68 2-15 Bassman cab,36 guitars total-15asst'd amps total,2 vintage '60s Hammond organs & a myriad of effects-with a few rare vintage ones.

if it appeals to you thats all it matters