The core of Gene Baker's SL Deluxe design is simple in theory - take the best aspects of a Stratocaster and a Les Paul and combine them. While other builders like Paul Reed Smith have worked from similar concepts - Fender meets Gibson - b3 guitars have a decidedly more vintage feel and tone vs a PRS. Makes sense given that Gene was a Master Builder at the Fender Custom Shop and also spent time at Gibson's Custom Shop - he has intimate knowledge of what makes great instruments from those brands tick.

In keeping with the Gibson theme, this gorgeous Ancient Kauri topped / mahogany bodied SL Deluxe features a mahogany/rosewood board neck (59 carve, .87"-.95"), 12" radius, trapezoid inlays, twin b3 PAF style pickups, TonePros bridge/tailpiece, 24.625" scale, 17 degree headstock pitch, and a 1 11/16" nut. 

Gibson fans will recognize this as the basic recipe for a Les Paul style guitar (though this SL Deluxe features a hollow body). For all intents and purposes, this is a Les Paul - but - its more comfortable with better balance, a tummy cut, effortless upper fret access, an ancient Kauri top, and it weighs 6lbs 4oz. Ancient Kauri dates back around 50,000 years and is both gorgeous looking and sounding - making this SL Deluxe a highly resonant, tone-filled, and unique guitar. We love the qualities it brings to this build.

The b3 wound PAF style pickups deliver classic midrange punch, medium output, and a clear, articulate top end. Another way this SL Deluxe might best a Les Paul is in the clean tone department - you can get gorgeous, almost ES-335 like clean tones out of this guitar in addition to killer overdriven tones. 

If you're on the hunt for a new guitar, this SL Deluxe should definitely be at the top of your list. A fine example of modern and vintage aesthetic brought together by a legendary Master Builder - what else could you want? 

Priced with hardshell case.