With all of the attention (deservedly so) focused on their amplifiers, California-based Magnatone doesn't have quite the pedigree of success with their electric guitar offerings. That doesn't mean they aren't some of the cooler US-made instruments of their time, though. Case in point with this 1965 X-20 Typhoon model.

Magnatone released the Typhoon in 1965, likely aiming to compete in the offset Jazzmaster/Jaguar market that had quickly gained popularity through the middle part of the decade. The slim, contoured Poplar body features a rare Yellow Sparkle finish that continues onto the Maple neck and headstock, capped off with a 21-fret Rosewood fingerboard.

This "deluxe" 3-pickup model offers an astounding amount of tones thanks to some unique switching capabilities. What is essentially a lead/rhythm slider switch on the bass side horn dictates which of the two volume controls is engaged, with a single tone control functioning in both settings. The three slider switches on the treble side are tied to the pickups in various configurations, altering phase and tone capacitors for some unique and unconventional tones.

The bridge and tremolo are reminiscent of Fender offsets in form and functionality. The tuners are original Kluson double lines that function very well.

Short-scale compactness meets long-scale sound in this Magnatone Typhoon. A great vintage value in a rare finish and as complete as they come!

Priced with original hardshell Magnatone case.

Condition: Very Good+. Lacquer checking throughout, with some minor dings and scuffs. The original pickguard is very clean and crack-free, and all of the electronics function. Frets are clean with some light/moderate wear particularly up through frets 5-6. A small but identifiable sticker was applied to the headstock long ago, and due to its age we've elected to leave it on the guitar. The original case is clean with functioning latches.

• Yellow Sparkle finish on Poplar body
• Maple neck with 21 fret Rosewood fingerboard
• 25 1/2" scale length
• 3 Magnatone single-coil pickups
• Rhythm/Lead slider toggle switch
• Tone cap / Phase slider toggle pickup switches
• Lead Volume, Rhythm Volume, Tone
• Original bridge and Magnatone tremolo
• Weight: 6lb 11oz