Yamaha - Dynamic Guitar No. 1A - - Chitarra acustica - Giappone - 1958

Incredibly cool Yamaha Dynamic Guitar No. 1A Nippon Gakki acoustic guitar.

Made in Japan in the late '50s (approximately 1958), making it rarer than the '60s models.

Check the demo video I recorded playing the guitar: https://youtu.be/0-IIJbNDQjQ

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YAMAHA DYNAMIC GUITARS HISTORY:

Dynamic Guitars were introduced in the '50s by Yamaha and were designed to be used both with light/extra light steel strings and nylon strings. The internal pattern, which allowed a classical-shaped body to handle the higher tension of steel strings, was published and registered in Japan in 1951.

In around 1952, Yamaha began manufacturing the first commercially available Dynamic Guitar models:
- No. 30
- No. 50
- No. 70
These early '50s models are identifiable by the arched Yamaha logo on the headstock and their white, gold and black label which reads: Nippon Gakki Seizo Kabushiki Kaisha Hamamatsu Japan.

These models were produced roughly from 1952 until 1958, when new models were introduced that went on to replace the previous ones:
- No. 1, No. 1A (this model!), No. 1B
- No. 2
- No. 4
- No. 8
These were built and available from roughly 1958 to 1960 and are identifiable by their black label and by their now straight Yamaha logo.

In around 1960, Yamaha updated the Dynamic Guitar line by introducing new models:
- No. 10, No. 10A, No. 10B
- No. 20
- No. 40
- No. 80
In around 1963, an additional model, the No. 15, was introduced.
These models are identifiable by a red and white label and were produced with this label from around 1960 to 1965. Moreover, in 1963 a JIS symbol was introduced on the headstock and on the label of Dynamic Guitars. This helps us identify the Dynamic Guitars pre-1963 (the JIS symbol is absent) and the ones made after 1963 (JIS symbol present on headstock and label).

Regarding the '60s models, here is some info from a '60s Yamaha catalogue (approximate translation from Japanese):
"DYNAMIC GUITAR
Features of the Yamaha Dynamic Guitar:
1. Excellent volume and sustain, making it ideal for solo performances.
2. Even tone; powerful bass and consistently good tone throughout.
3. Mellow, beautiful, and clear tone, allowing each part to be clearly heard, making it wonderfully appealing for ensemble playing.
4. Chords blend well, producing a beautiful effect in accompaniment.
5. Directional sound projection ensures the sound carries well even on stage.
6. Produces harmonic and other special tones.
7. Made with carefully selected materials and boasting an elegant finish that brings joy to the owner.
8. Can be used with steel, nylon, or gut strings."

Moreover, in around 1965, the red and white label was replaced by a cream label with a gold frame and two new models were introduced:
- No. S50
- No. S70

Finally, in 1966 Dynamic Guitars were discontinued and the new FG series was introduced by Yamaha.

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Please note that the dates in the history section above are approximate because there is not enough official info from Yamaha on Dynamic Guitars. However, the history should be more or less accurate because it's compiled after years of passion and research, integrating my own experience along with online sources.

Please check the photos and the videos carefully, they are the best way to understand the guitar's condition & sound.

This guitar is probably more than 65 years old, so adjust your expectations accordingly:
- it may have scratches, blemishes, cracks and imperfections
- the inside structure may have issues like detachments
- there may be rust on the tuning machines
- it will feel different compared to a new instrument
- it has not been professionally setup, so adjustments may be needed to improve its playability

I'd suggest it to people who have some experience with vintage guitars and are willing to make adjustments down the line, or who can embrace the imperfections in exchange for a special sound and vibe.