Guild Starfire XII -- Convert to Six String?

[dffny]

Hello All--

Apologies for the non-offset topic, but trying to figure out my options.

I've got a 1967 Guild 12-string that is a great guitar but I never drag out of the closet more than a few times a year.

I also realized that I have missed the boat on buying a vintage Starfire IV or V at a price I can afford as prices have really climbed in the last few years. (and the XIIs seem to sell for half what the six strings go for).

This is beyond my skillset, but I'm curious if a luthier could convert it (including cutting down the headstock) without too much trouble? The neck is already pretty narrow, so I'm not worried there would be any issue there. Are there any other considerations I should think about? Any guess what such an operation would cost?

Any info appreciated -- thanks!

[cestlamort]

Please don't. These are amazing guitars.

Just string it up as a 6 string (it will be fine with maybe a slight truss rod adjustment) or sell it.

You can still find 60s (and 70s) starfires IV and V for not too much (less thank $2k) if your heart is set on one.

[SignoftheDragon]

^ +1

Please don't chop that headstock!

[dffny]

Please don't. These are amazing guitars.

Just string it up as a 6 string (it will be fine with maybe a slight truss rod adjustment) or sell it.

You can still find 60s (and 70s) starfires IV and V for not too much (less thank $2k) if your heart is set on one.

Haha--okay, okay! It is a lovely guitar--I just wish it was a six string.

[hansbrinker]

Noooooooooooooo!

[SignoftheDragon]

I've found that peer pressure on this forum tends to lead me to make better guitar choices-

Not too long ago I was LUSTING after a butchered vintage EXII that was nowhere near worth what the seller was asking. I was blinded by my 'gotta-have-it' mind, almost to the point of making an offer that I would have been sorry for later. M'boys&girls here on the forum offered sound advice that got me out of my reactive mind and led me to consider all viewpoints. Saved me a few thousand dollars, and a non-returnable purchase that I would likely have been sorry for.

That being said- it IS your guitar... and your choice what to do with it. Best of luck!

[dffny]

I've found that peer pressure on this forum tends to lead me to make better guitar choices-

Not too long ago I was LUSTING after a butchered vintage EXII that was nowhere near worth what the seller was asking. I was blinded by my 'gotta-have-it' mind, almost to the point of making an offer that I would have been sorry for later. M'boys&girls here on the forum offered sound advice that got me out of my reactive mind and led me to consider all viewpoints. Saved me a few thousand dollars, and a non-returnable purchase that I would likely have been sorry for.

That being said- it IS your guitar... and your choice what to do with it. Best of luck!

Ha! Thanks SignoftheDragon!

[cestlamort]

That being said- it IS your guitar... and your choice what to do with it. Best of luck!

I'm not sure I totally agree: as owners of vintage instruments we also have an implied caretaking role. But as someone who's been looking out for a decent Guild SFXII, please don't hack it.

I had a very good one on review from Guitar Center, but it was ultimately too much money; the others I've tried have had issues with condition or neck angle/need to reset neck. They aren't super rare, but I've been looking for a while.

And seriously: a SFXII is just a SFIV with a longer headstock and different nut (and bridge + tailpiece). (Same neck shape/width too). Restring it as a six string and enjoy it. Or go for a 9 string configuration if you want to mix stuff up.

[adamrobertt]

Just sell it and buy a guitar you like. Don't mutilate a vintage guitar.