YAMAHA Electric Guitars Australia

Yamaha Electric Guitars FAQs 

What are Yamaha Electric Guitars? 

At Coleman's Music, we love Yamaha acoustic and electric. They just provide such amazing value and play, and sound remarkable. The quality and versatility sounds Yamaha guitars provide well surpasses the costs, and that matters for us Aussie musicians.

Yamaha is a well-known Japanese company that manufactures a wide range of musical instruments, including electric guitars. Yamaha electric guitars are popular for their quality, craftsmanship, and versatility - most Yamaha electrics can cover a variety of sounds, and aren't one-trick-pony guitars.

Yamaha electric guitars cater to a broad spectrum of players, from beginners to professionals and you'll find loads of Yamaha instruments on the session scene, as they cover all styles of music - jazz, folk, rock to next level shredding with their amazing playability!

Here are some key features of Yamaha electric guitars we love:

1. Quality and Craftsmanship: Yamaha is known for its commitment to quality and precision in the manufacturing of musical instruments. Their electric guitars are no exception, and they are often praised for their build quality and attention to detail.

2. Diverse Models: Yamaha offers a diverse range of electric guitar models, including the Pacifica series, the Revstar series, and the SG series, all with different body styles and different styles of hardware. Each Yamaha series is designed with different aesthetics and features to cater to various playing styles and preferences.

3. Pacifica Electric Series: The Yamaha Pacifica series is one of the most popular and versatile lines of solid bodied electric guitars, taking queues from the stratocaster. These guitars are known for their comfortable feel, great tone, and affordable prices. They are suitable for a wide range of musical genres with different pickup configurations, like a three-way pickup switch or a 5-way switch, and a variety of pickup configurations like a humbucker bridge pickup or single coil. Yamaha Pacifica guitars are high-quality and versatile instruments, and that's why they're great for students and pros alike.

4. Revstar Electric Series: The Revstar series is more focused on modern design and a unique vintage-inspired aesthetic, kind of like a double cut Yamaha of yesteryear, just with modern playability and versatile sound options, such as humbuckers or p90 pickups options. These guitars often feature innovative hardware and electronics. Revstar's are famous for their smooth sound, and are one of the most underated guitars for sale in Australia today we think. They can cover a variety of styles and break the mold just enough to make them yours.

5. SG Series: The SG series is a classic line of Yamaha electric guitars that draws inspiration from the vintage SG models. They are known for their solid construction and powerful, versatile tones. Made with traditional construction methods these double cut guitars are much more solid than the Gibson SG, in fact, they're more like a double cut Les Paul when it comes to tone, feel and weight. 

6. Beginner-Friendly Options: Yamaha offers entry-level electric guitars that are excellent choices for beginners. These guitars provide good value for the money, making them accessible to those just starting on their musical journey.

7. Innovative Features: Some Yamaha electric guitars come with innovative features such as active electronics, coil-tapping, and various pickup configurations, which allow players to access a wide range of tones.

8. Affordability: Yamaha electric guitars are often praised for their affordability, especially when considering the build quality and features they offer. This makes them an attractive option for both beginners and budget-conscious players.

Yamaha electric guitars have gained a positive reputation in the music industry and are used by musicians in various genres. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, Yamaha offers a range of options to suit your needs and preferences. When considering a Yamaha electric guitar, it's important to try out different models to find the one that best suits your playing style and tonal preferences. 

What is the history of Yamaha Electric Guitars?

The history of Yamaha electric guitars dates back several decades. Yamaha is a renowned Japanese company with a long and storied history in the world of musical instrument manufacturing.

Here is a brief overview of the history of Yamaha electric guitars:

1. Early Beginnings (1940s-1950s): Yamaha's journey into the guitar industry began in the late 1940s when the company started producing classical and acoustic guitars. In the early 1950s, they introduced their first electric guitars, including the Yamaha "D-6," which was a small, archtop, hollow-body electric guitar with a highly transparent sound.

2. SG Series (1966): In 1966, Yamaha introduced the SG series, solid bodied guitars which would become one of their most iconic lines of electric guitars, renown for their outstanding tone. The SG series was designed to compete with popular American electric guitars like the Gibson SG for the contemporary guitar player, with a powerful tone through either humbuckers or p90 pickups. These guitars featured solid-body construction, unique designs, and quality craftsmanship make the original Yamaha SGs highly collectable these days. 

3. Yamaha Super Flighter Series (1970s): During the 1970s, Yamaha introduced the Super Flighter series, which was known for its high-quality construction and versatile features. The Super Flighter guitars were used by several prominent musicians of the era, using the finest hand-selected tone woods and many with 24-fret rosewood fingerboard options.

4. Yamaha Pacifica Series (1990s): In 1990, Yamaha released the Pacifica series of electric guitars. The Yamaha Pacifica has become one of the company's most recognized and successful lines. These original Pacificas were more expensive, and loved by rock guitars who like to play fast! But even then, these Yamaha guitars are known for their excellent build quality, versatility, and affordability. The Pacifica series has continued to evolve and expand, offering expressive versatility for various playing styles and budgets.

5. Revstar Series (2015): In 2015, Yamaha introduced the Revstar series, a line of electric guitars with a modern and vintage-inspired design. These guitars are known for their unique aesthetics and innovative features, such as the Dry Switch and Bigsby vibrato systems.

Throughout the years, Yamaha has continued to innovate and refine their electric guitar designs. They have worked with prominent guitarists, including artists like Carlos Santana and Mike Stern, to create signature models. Yamaha's commitment to quality and craftsmanship has helped establish their reputation in the electric guitar market.

Yamaha electric guitars are widely recognized for their reliability, playability, and affordability. They cater to a broad range of players, from beginners to professionals, and have made a significant impact on the music industry. The company's long history of instrument manufacturing has contributed to the development and success of their electric guitar offerings.

What famous artists play Yamaha Electric Guitars?

Yamaha electric guitars have been used by a variety of famous artists across different musical genres. Some notable musicians who have played Yamaha electric guitars include:

1. Carlos Santana: The legendary guitarist Carlos Santana has been associated with Yamaha. He had a signature model which was not an exclusive custom shop, but the Yamaha SG2000S, in the 1970s, which was known for its quality and tonal versatility. Before this, Yamaha contracted Santana to play their SG175, but he said it was too light. Go Carlos, because we know those original SG2000s require a bit of gym work to play on a strap for an extended period.

2. Mike Stern: Jazz guitarist Mike Stern has been a longtime user of Yamaha electric guitars. He has worked closely with Yamaha to develop signature models, such as the signature model Pacifica 1511MS and Pacifica 1611MS. Mike Stern is a remarkable guitarist, if you haven't heard him, simply head here. the Mike Stern custom shop Yamahas are absolutely beautiful instruments.

3. Michael Anthony (Van Halen, Chickenfoot): The renowned bassist Michael Anthony is also known for his work with Yamaha, particularly for his bass guitars. While he is primarily a bassist, his involvement with Yamaha is worth noting.

4. Neal Schon (Journey, Santana): Neal Schon, famous for his work with Journey and Santana, has played Yamaha electric guitars on various occasions, including Yamaha hollow body guitars which are high sort after today, like vintage Japanese Ibanez and Greco guitars.

5. Phil X: Phil X, a guitarist known for his work with Bon Jovi and The Drills, has used Yamaha electric guitars, including the Phil X Signature Series Revstar model. Phil butchered his Yamaha SG's removing the neck pickups so he had just one p90 with exposed pickup bobbins, cause it is way cooler : ) We've once played a white Phil X Yamaha SG, it was a solid guitar and rock machine!

6. Michael Wilton (Queensrÿche): Michael Wilton, the guitarist for the progressive metal band Queensrÿche, has been associated with Yamaha high-end electric guitar options, and has used their guitars in his performances.

7. Steve Lukather (Toto): While primarily associated with Music Man and Ernie Ball Music Man, Steve Lukather of Toto has also been seen playing Yamaha instruments at various points in his career.

8. Michael McDonald: The legendary singer and keyboardist Michael McDonald has used Yamaha instruments, including their electric guitars, in his live performances.

9. James Black (Finger Eleven): James Black, the guitarist for Finger Eleven, is known to have played Yamaha electric guitars, particularly the Pacifica series. We believe James used both normal pickups and active pickups from his ones, but can't confirm that, just what our ears tell us.

These are just a few artists who have chosen to play Yamaha electric guitars. Yamaha's reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and versatility has made their instruments appealing to a diverse range of musicians in different genres, from rock and jazz to pop and beyond.

What models of Yamaha Electric Guitars have been released in Australia?

Yamaha typically offers a range of electric guitar models in the Australian market, and is famous for their entry level guitar range across both acoustics and electrics. But while they make fantastic entry-level solid body guitars - if you are a more experienced guitarist, you should check them out too, as Yamaha guitars are awesome for the price. The Yamaha models below often include different pickup configurations and switching options - making is super versatile!

Please just note, not all of these models are still available.

Today in 2023, Yamaha focuses mainly on the Pacifica and Revstar models, and have dropped lots of lines over the years. We thought it best to include the more recent models here,  if you happen to stumble across an interesting second hand Yamaha electric guitar - as there are so many Yamaha style electric guitars floating around in swop shops etc that don't get the love they deserve. Most are high-end instruments!

1. Yamaha Pacifica Series: The Pacifica series is one of Yamaha's most popular and diverse lines of electric guitars. It includes various models such as the Pacifica PAC112V electric guitar, Pacifica 112J, and the Pacifica 012, among others. These guitars are well-regarded for their playability and versatility and come with either a maple (or maple equivalent) or bolt-on maple neck, with a huge range of finishes. 

2. Yamaha Revstar Series: The Revstar series features a unique and modern design. Some of the models available in Australia may include the RS320, RS420, and RS502. These guitars often have distinctive features and aesthetics.

3. Yamaha RGX Series: The RGX series is known for its sleek, ergonomic designs and often includes models like the RGX220DZ and RGX121Z with a 24-fret neck or a bolt-on 22 fret maple neck options. The RGX series was widely popular back in the day!

4. Yamaha SA Series: The SA series offers semi-hollow and hollow-body electric guitars. Models like the SA2200 and SA503 are available in this series.

5. Yamaha SG Series: The SG series is known for its solid-body, classic designs. Yamaha has reintroduced some vintage-inspired SG models, like the SG1820 and SG1802.

6. Yamaha Pacifica Mike Stern Signature Model: Yamaha offers the Pacifica 1511MS and Pacifica 1611MS, which are signature models for the renowned jazz guitarist Mike Stern.

7. Yamaha AES Series: The AES series includes models like the AES620 and AES720, known for their high-quality construction and tone and interesting style hardware.

8. Yamaha Signature Models: Yamaha collaborates with various artists to create signature models. Depending on availability, you might find signature guitars for artists like Mike Stern, Phil X, and others.

9. Yamaha Starter Packs: Yamaha offers electric guitar starter packs for beginners, which typically include a Pacifica guitar, an amplifier, and other essential accessories.

Keep in mind that the availability of specific models can change over time, and new models may have been introduced since my last update. It's advisable to visit Yamaha's official website or contact Yamaha dealers in Australia for the most current information on available models and series. Additionally, you can visit local music stores to see the range of Yamaha electric guitars offered in the Australian market. 

Where are Yamaha Electric Guitars made?

Yamaha electric guitars, like Yamaha acoustic guitars, are manufactured in various locations around the world, with some of their factories located in Japan, Indonesia, and China. Here is a brief overview of Yamaha's manufacturing locations for electric guitars:

1. Japan: Yamaha is a Japanese company, and they have a long history of manufacturing high-quality musical instruments, including electric guitars, in their Japanese factories. Some of their premium and flagship models are made in Japan, often at their Hamamatsu facility. These guitars are known for their craftsmanship, precision, and attention to detail. the

   YAMAHA Revstar RSP for example, is a Japanese made Yamaha guitar.

2. Indonesia: Yamaha also has manufacturing facilities in Indonesia where they produce a range of electric guitars. These Indonesian-made guitars are often more affordable and cater to a broader range of players, including those looking for budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality.

3. China and Taiwan made instruments: Yamaha has expanded its production capabilities to China, and some of their electric guitars are manufactured there. These guitars are typically designed to be cost-effective and are suitable for entry-level or mid-range markets.

Yamaha is known for its strict quality control processes, regardless of the manufacturing location, to ensure that their instruments meet their high standards for craftsmanship and playability. If in doubt, please just get in touch with the Coleman's Music Melbourne CBD team or online, we're happy to help!

What materials are Yamaha Electric Guitars made from?

Yamaha electric guitars are made from a variety of high quality materials, and Yamaha's engineers and luthiers do a great job of making balanced instruments. of course, the specific materials used vary based on the model and series.

When it comes to electric instruments, it's not just the pickups, the choice of materials influences the guitar's tone, playability, and overall quality. Here's a detailed overview of the typical materials used in Yamaha electric guitars:

1. Body Woods:

   • Alder: Alder is a commonly used wood for the bodies of Yamaha electric guitars. It is known for its balanced and resonant tone, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles.
   • Mahogany: Mahogany is another popular body wood choice. It provides a warm, rich, and full-bodied tone, often preferred for guitars designed for rock and blues.
   • Maple: Maple may be used for some models, usually as a top wood for a more aesthetically pleasing finish. It can add brightness and snap to the guitar's tone.
     
     

2. Neck Woods:

   • Maple: Maple necks are prevalent in Yamaha electric guitars. Maple is known for its stability and bright tone. It is often used for bolt-on neck constructions.
   • Mahogany: Some Yamaha guitars feature mahogany necks, which can impart warmth and resonance to the instrument's tone.
     
     

3. Fingerboard Materials:

   • Rosewood: Rosewood is a traditional and common choice for fingerboards. It is known for its smooth feel and warm, balanced tone.
   • Maple: Maple fingerboards are used in some models, providing a brighter and snappier tonal response.
   • Ebony: Ebony fingerboards are occasionally used in higher-end models, known for their sleek appearance and bright, crisp tonal characteristics.
     
     

4. Pickups:

   • Yamaha electric guitars may come equipped with a variety of pickup types, including single-coil and humbucking pickups with advanced pickup switching options. Like other brands, Yamaha pickups are typically made of magnets (e.g., alnico or ceramic), pole pieces, and copper wire, with a choice of passive or active pickups ins some models. The choice of pickups significantly affects the guitar's tone and versatility, but chances are, you know what you like.
     
     

5. Hardware:

   • The hardware on Yamaha electric guitars, such as bridges, tuning machines, and control knobs, can be made from various materials. Typically, these components are made to be durable and reliable, often using materials like steel, nickel, and chrome.
     
     

6. Finishes:

   • The finish on a Yamaha electric guitar can be a variety of materials, such as polyurethane, nitrocellulose, or polyester. The finish serves both a protective and aesthetic purpose, providing a durable finish and loads of visual appeal. Lots of Yamaha models come with classic and bold finishes, so you can choose the colour and body finish you love!
     
     

7. Electronics:

   • The electronics in Yamaha electric guitars, including pots, switches, and wiring, are typically made with high-quality components to ensure reliability and consistent performance. One thing we love about Yamaha electronics here at Coleman's Music Melbourne CBD and online, is the versatility of Yamaha electronics. For example, the tone controls work, and you can usually roll down the volume pot for acoustic-like tones - which is something that is usually reserved for higher-end guitars.

It's important to note that the specific materials used can vary from model to model. Yamaha offers a wide range of guitar options, from entry-level to professional-grade instruments, so the differences of materials can vary from guitar to guitar.

Are Yamaha Electric Guitars good value in Australia?

Absolutely! Yamaha electric guitars are great value in Australia, and this same sentiment often applies to Yamaha instruments in various parts of the world.

Yamaha has a reputation for producing high-quality instruments at competitive price points. Here are some reasons why Yamaha electric guitars are often seen as good value in Australia and other regions:

1. Quality Craftsmanship: Yamaha is known for its commitment to quality and precision in the manufacturing of musical instruments. They are one of the biggest Japanese guitar brands on the planet! Their electric guitars are no exception, and they are often praised for their build quality and attention to detail, even the entry level Pacifica Electric Guitar models!

2. Versatility: Yamaha electric guitars, such as the Pacifica series, are versatile instruments suitable for a wide range of musical genres and playing styles. They offer excellent tonal options, making them valuable for both beginners and experienced players.

3. Affordability: Yamaha offers a broad spectrum of electric guitar models, including entry-level and mid-range options that provide good value for the money. These guitars are accessible to players with varying budgets.

4. Resale Value: Yamaha instruments generally have good resale value, which is a testament to their enduring quality and desirability in the used market.

5. Innovative Features: Some Yamaha electric guitars come with innovative features like active electronics, coil-tapping, and various pickup configurations, providing players with a wide range of tones.

6. Artist Collaborations: Yamaha collaborates with renowned artists to create signature models. These instruments often offer great value, as they are designed in conjunction with experienced professionals and include customer timbers and custom sets of pickups to the artists needs.

7. Customer Support: Yamaha is known for its customer support and warranty services, which can be beneficial for customers in Australia and other locations.

Where do I buy Yamaha Electric Guitars in Melbourne CBD or online from Sydney, Brisbane, Hobart, Canberra, Adelaide or anywhere else in Australia!

At Coleman’s Music of course! If you're looking to buy Yamaha Electric Guitars, even on a tight budget, simply buy online today or get in touch with the friendly Coleman's Music team and our stores in Melbourne CBD, with fast online shipping all over Australia, or give us a call on (03) 9799 5400 with any questions, we’re always happy to help you find the perfect instrument from a huge range of products!