I have had mine for a couple months now and Love this V!!!! I will get the nut switched to Bone but overall love the Burst 2,3 hum-buckers as well. Can’t wait for you next video with it. Thank You Robert!
Sounds very good. I don't have a Flying V, but always play with a Strap even when sitting, as it helps keep the guitar in the same position as when standing, feels more comfortable, and is easier on my back.
I fell in love with Flying V's since I saw Michael Schenker playing one with UFO on Don Kirschner's Rock Concert. The only one I've ever played was an Ibanez lawsuit model; it's uncomfortableness to play while seated was a deal-breaker. They still look and sound badass.
I had an Epiphone Flying V in the 90s that had a little flat piece of metal that was attached to the lower part with a hinge, that you could swing out and prop on your thigh, for playing when sitting down. I got it used, I think that was an aftermarket mod a previous owner did. it made the guitar much more stable to play while sitting.
Back in September 2021, I was in Nashville and visited the Gibson Garage. I had no intention whatsoever of buying a guitar, just play a bunch of them. After spending about 4 hours picking stuff from the walls, I bought that exact same model of V in that same color. Never before had I even considered owning a Flying V, but the one I played at the Garage simply spoke to me in a way that at the end of the day, I had to take it home. Soon after, I changed the layout of the controls and placed the volume at the top of the cluster. It is such an awesome guitar and once you get used to the straddling between the legs thing, it sounds and plays amazing. And of course, looks badass.
It's amazing how some guitars simply give you something others don't. A few years ago my bandmate was looking for a new guitar (back then we both had medium-level guitars) and we went to a music shop. He wanted to try a Firebird, and I was almost disgusted at the idea because I always thought they are the ugliest guitars in the world. He tried it and said "It's cool, but I don't know". He handed it to me and I tried it...and it was instant love. I ended up getting that exact guitar a few months later, while my friend bought a Les Paul
About 85, 86ish I was renting an apartment from an old jazz player that had a small music store. One day he invited me up into the attic above the music store to show me a white limited edition Jimi Hendrix flying V he had acquired. He said they put out things like this in limited quantities to Gibson dealers from time to time and he would buy them to stick in his attic as an investment. I got the feeling he would sell it to me if I was interested but I couldn't afford a used Gibson in those days. I have never run across another one. I'm guessing it had to be made between the late 70's to the mid 80's when he showed it to me. I probably should have bought it on a payment plan but didn't know how valuable it might be down the road. The guy's son Craig Erickson did some recording and touring years later and took over his father's store. I wonder how many other treasures were in that attic?
It’s definitely a bit of an adjustment with sitting down but it feels great when standing and playing. I just got one of the new Epiphone Korina V’s and that’s got one of the rubber strips on the bottom horn. Works great in classical position and keeps the guitar from sliding around! Fun guitars!
Beautiful guitar. Sounds Killer. Fun watching you wrestle with it. They should install the original rubber strip on the side for sit down playing. Great video. Keep up the great work 🤘🎸
I had a V90 - 24 frets; single hot pickup; only a volume control; Steinberger locking nut and trem - but it had a fold-out leg rest which made it very easy to play seated. I'm surprised that hasn't become a standard feature.
I switched from drums to guitar after hearing Michael Schenker almost 40 years ago so I have ALWAYS wanted a Flying V. I've had four (two Gibsons, one Epiphone and one Dean) and they have all been so neck-heavy that I practically couldn't play them unless I was sitting. I had a 1958 Corona reissue that I just displayed for a few years but eventually traded it (with a few other guitars) for an old Strat. I wish they were as fun to play as they look but I haven't been lucky enough to find one of the "good" ones yet. I'll keep looking. 🙂
I just bought the Epiphone 1958 re-issue Korina Flying V.....it is amazing! One of my first really good guitars was an early 1980's Ibanez Rocket Roll Flying V and I have owned several other V's since then so I am use to them. I am very comfortable sitting down and playing them without a strap. The 1958 re-issues have a rubber block on the bottom of the lower "leg" to add friction when it is an your leg to play it in a normal way.....pretty sweet idea. =)
I've owned several Vs. One of my favorites to play was actually a Dean Baby V. It was a short scale, with a slightly smaller body. That guitar was a shred machine. Others I've owned were a Randy Rhoads Jackson with Duncans, a Jackson King V also with Duncans, and some off brand I got at a pawn shop.
I bought that same guitar in 2019.. it quickly became my favorite guitar to play after a little getting used to.. hard to put down sometimes.. and yes, the strap is critical.. thanks for the great video! 🤟
What's funny is that the only Flying V I have played in my life was a Lonnie Mack Signature V at Chelsea Guitars in New York. Had a Bigsby with that funky brace. Was super cool.
I liked what you were saying about feeling like you were having to push your legs together and hold the guitar up. That’s the reason I play a dean ml, because it’s a v that has the extra top two horns of the explorer and that holds up the guitar by itself at a perfect playing position when in between the legs. You should check one out some time.
I have a '22 Flying V & '22 Explorer in Antique Natural... As well as a '22 70s Flying V & '20 70s Explorer in Classic White. They are absolutely stunning and great playing guitars!
Hey Robert, thank you so much, I prefer to play in a classical position, because for me, it feels more natural when you stand up, and your shoulder, at least mine, is not in an awkward position, like in the casual position, and how you played the flying V, seems great for that position rather than the casual one. Oh and 6.2 (6.2 feet = 188.976 cm) you are tall, never imagined it. Take care, cheers.
the first Flying V I saw was played by Dave Davies of the Kinks and I thought it would be awesome to have one. But once I got a Telecaster, I never went in the V direction. Some V's have a rubber strip on the outside of the lower V so that you can put that on your thigh and avoid the slide instead of have to perch it like in the video.
I got to see Bill Peek play a '66 V at a private party in Houston. He was great. Johnny Johnson and Dave Masala also played. Bill Peek was on Hot Legs with Rod Stewart
Coincidentally, just got mine this week. You can play it sitting down with a strap nicely. Additionally, depending on the chair in your house you can lounge with it. Meaning it is actually possible to lean back in a chair and play it without a strap.
I've almost exclusively played Vs for 10 years now in the classical possition, they're so comfortable imo, all of them. Get your left leg up and it'll hold itself in position, the key is to use the lower horn for stability on your right leg
@@RobertBakerGuitar no, not attached to the guitar. i think i updated my comment as you replied, but If you get something under your left foot to bring it up a couple inches and use the tip of bottom horn as a stabilizer in your right calf it should lock itself in
I promised myself that if I ever got back into playing live again, I'd pick up this exact model/color of Flying V... love 'em. Also, shout out to Leon Todd! I cross-reference between you two (as well as Ben Eller) All. The Freakin. Time. You guys are my Modern Day Cowboys of guitar heroes for me....
Cool video! Flying V's are cool! I have owned several (Gibson, Epiphone, Tokai) and now own a great Dean Custom Run with a Floyd and a straight six headstock. V's definitely have a sound of their own (unlike the Explorer, which i find is pretty much a dead ringer for a Les Paul), akin to a slightly beefier SG. On the bridge pickup, I hear a distinct, midrangey, "barking" cutting tone that's definitely its own thing. On the neck pickup, i find they sound pretty SG-like. A great guitar design, with a unique voice.
My first electric was a limited edition V,not sure what year,maybe 75 ish,I found playing that guitar sitting down superior to playing say a LP,the V part of guitar sat perfect between my legs,very comfortable like it was meant to be,had a Sunn Concert Lead also,was starving had to sell it,one of the saddest days..😢
I have a Dean Flying V which I received as a birthday gift years ago. I play it almost exclusively sitting down. While I hesitate to compare it to a Gibson, it does have a rich tone and an unbelievable amount of sustain.
I had a 58 anniversary edition made of Karina wood. Super light weight. Looks and sounds so cool. But as a sit-down player it's just not comfortable unless you are a classical style trained player.
Hey Robert, isn't there a strap in the case? Just wondered...I loved the sound of the V but I think I'd absolutely go for the bound neck of the 70's V which is now also offered in antique natural.
I purchased a Korean Epiphone a few years ago, modded with Seymour Duncan '59s, CTS pots, Switchcraft switch and jack and Mojo Mustard Cap! Its an Amazing guitar!!! All Korina, but more pieces of it and veneer top and back but looks and sounds awesome!
I have the same issue with size perception. I recently had someone tell me that the LTD les paul bass, I was playing looked like a normally les paul guitar in my hands. I'm 6'1 260lbs.
I am a fan of the Flying V I have an original 67, and a reissue 67. I really like the articulation, the neck is awesome, both of mine have a maestro. they are fun on stage!
V's are the coolest looking guitars ever. I have an Epiphone Bonamassa Amos and it looks fantastic, sounds fantastic and plays great (definitely not my prefered neck, but the style is worth the extra effort :p ). Enjoy this one ;)
The first 'good' (ie: expensive) guitar I ever played was a Flying V. 1994, 15 years old, work experience. First job on day one was to tune and wipe down every guitar in the store. I made a beeline for the Gibsons. This was only a few years after they launched the '67 reissue (1990-1992?). Fell in love with it and wanted one ever since. 25 years later, after acquiring every other guitar I'd ever wanted, I finally got my V. 2019 model, pretty much identical to this one except with the '67 style truss rod cover. It was worth the wait.
Son has Aria Pro II Flying V from the 70s. From Carter's Vintage Guitars...it's amazing..it's just Gibson MIJ. Nothing sounds like it. Turn it way up loud.
I had a 2011 Gibson V with a factory Floyd Rose. Never have loved Floyd Rose and most tremelos. It's me. Also cream yellowing white is great on fenders but not gibsons for me. The same cream white, and black or white plastics is perfect for my squier esquire ( white trim).This Vee on here sounds phenomenal Robert Baker. My old ears were trained on George Lynch and Molly Hatchet. Lonnie Mack played in my family's bar for years. Neal Young visited him there once in mid 1970s Many others played v's well. Mine was traded for a beautiful tele. The V I had always played great, sounded great, but in the end the color and seated position required helped move it to a happier home. Now I want one like THIS VIDEO for because..... Traded mine to Cincy guitar center 5 yrs ago. Michael Schenker, Albert King, Lonnie Mack, Jimi Hendrix, and many more greats loved them. Summary, some vee's are worth keeping. Well loved like chevy chevelles. Not many bad ones.
I had a 1985 Gibson Flying V, in ‘Panther Pink’, with factory installed Kahler tremolo. I hate myself for having sold that guitar in 1996. It was one of 2, known to exist. It had “High Output” humbuckers (Dirty Fingers prototypes), which sounded fucking amazing. The playability and tone of that guitar were insane. I bought it used, in 1992, for $360 out the door. I sold it for the exact same price. The only reason I sold it, is because I needed money to replace my stolen bicycle, while living in San Francisco, where I was working as a bicycle messenger. At the time, I had my 1991 Gibson SG Special, which was my first “real” electric guitar, and my Flying V. Since there was no way I was parting with my SG, and had no money to buy another bike so I could continue working as a bike messenger, I regrettably had to sell my Flying V. Not a day goes by where I don’t wish that I never had to sell that guitar. I have seen the other one of the two known 85 Panther Pink V, with the factory Kahler come up for sale in 2015, but I could not afford the price of $2k. It’s funny, because I own several Gibson Les Pauls, my 1991 SG Special, several Fenders, Orange tube amps and cabs, yet I still can’t afford to drop $2k cash for the V, if I were to find it again. All of my gear, was bought either on layaway, or on a multiple year/zero interest payment plan. So if anybody wants to start a Go Fund Me, to raise money for me to get my Flying V back, let me know. 😜
I think they look bigger when I person is playing them , but the feel just right when your playing them , my favorite body style by Gibson , wish I could have a new one with the same ne is they use on the 61 sgd there currently making , those are the perfect necks
I had a lawsuit Aria V when I was in High School...at Whetstone Sr. High. Have you ever tried any Burny's, Greco's, Ibanez, Tokai's etc. or even the Epiphone's from the Terada, FujiGen factories and Orville's? I own a 98 Orville LPS I love it, I get a lot of compliments on it and when people play it. I had Mike from "A String Instruments Repair" do some fret work and he loved it, said he's never worked one before and was excited! I got an Aria Pro2 LPS and a Burny SG....The Japanese are exceptional craftsmen!
I have a Korean made Tokai V this same colour, it's not actually korina wood and the pickguard is black, but it's one of the greatest guitars I've ever played.👍
I have one, a 2008 Faded with 3 pickups, and I also love my one. The only thing about this particular model is the pickguard. I love the 70's pickguard, and this little one doesn't look beautiful to me. But, still, a lovely guitar.
Flying Vs are my favorite shape to play standing, there is not that much wood that gets in the way of my forearm and does not need a belly cut because there is no wood there either, although LTDs Vs do have one, on the downside, the neck dive is bad, I do place the strap button in the inner part of the V, sort of like Hetfield or Mustaine, still I believe the strap should be attached to the neckplate, or just have more weight on the lower wing to compensate... access is great up to the 24th and 23rd fret, although I almost never use the, it's nice to know I can reach them ha!
Never owned or played a Flying V before, but is is such an awesome iconic guitar! Not just for heavy metal, such a great onstage guitar. Thanks for the chance to win this guitar & thank you SweetWater!
I have played a couple of V's here and there. I can understand the feeling of keeping it from falling; neck dive is definitely an issue. Like the tone, but if I were to get a pointy guitar I'd rather have a Jackson Rhoads.
@@dirtyworks8084 Yeah I really think they got it right the first time. They’ve just become more a collector’s brand nowadays, which is where the money is, so that makes sense.
Actually, the Flying V has become so associated with the high gain, heavy metal genre that people often fail to see that it is an incredibly versatile guitar, despite genre. The body shape allows for the most focused midrange of virtually any humbucker loaded guitar. It is punchy, articulate, maintains excellent note and string definition and serves extremely well within the blues genre. It's totally one of Gibson's greatest designs. Make it your own-you won't regret it!
That is really cool! I have never played a Flying V, but wanted to and wanted to own one also. Keep putting out great content Robert Baker. You’re trustworthy and down to earth. You inspire me to keep playing and coming up with my own ideas on guitar. Rock on! 🤘🏼🎸
Hi, nice review and great great playing. Can't say in 30 years I've ever played a Flying V . I suppose the angle of the neck when sitting has put me off but you seemed to have managed! Might be time to have a look.
V's, of any source, make you play differently. Especially if you are seated. I had a Dean V and it was a great guitar, I just could not get comfortable playing it in a sitting position, which is how I play most of the time.
I have a Gibson Flying V that I modified with P90s because 1. they sound awesome and 2. Leslie West. I always wanted a Rocket Roll, though. Bob Mould played a Rocket Roll in Husker Du and it's a major reason I like Flying Vs so much. Good luck finding one with the original Super 70 pickups for a reasonable price. I ended up buying a Gibson because it was cheaper!
Rob, when you record a video like this one, is the guitar audio we are hearing coming from your FX or you miking a speaker? Your sound is freaking great! And what are you hearing it out of? That Vee is sweet!
Everyone thinks the V pose with the headstock at 1 o’clock is about looking cool, it’s only when you play it do you realise the body shape causes that. I own a lefty 2003 model. Explorer at 3pm. SG half past five.
I'm 6' 1" and the only guitars I have that don't look too small while I'm playing them are my Explorers. I love the Explorers but the Flying V isn't for me. It sounds real nice.
I bought a Flying V in 1994, played it for 23 years. Then I sold it in a momentary lapse of reason (aka GAS). My wife told me I was gonna regret it, but… Well, she was right, instant regret. I tried to replace it with a 2012-model, but it didn’t feel anything like it. Just wrong. Two years ago a white made in March 1995 popped up for sale. Unloaded a EBMM within minutes, but the seller told me someone outbid me. Luckily an hour later he asked if I was still interested. As soon as I played the first chord, it felt like an old friend. It’s my shared #1. My live-guitar, and my Maybach Albatroz 65 (SG jr.) is my sitting down-guitar.
I was lucky enough to be at my local guitar shop a couple years ago when Joe Bonamassa walked in to check the place out, looking for vintage fender amps as he does, and he was very proud to have his tech bring in a '58 Explorer, a '58 V and a gorgeous '59 LP to show off. The "V" is a great guitar, just not comfy for me, although, holding these beauty's did feel pretty damn good....
Lol your hair on the guitar scared you but hitting the lower part of the v on you desk didn’t even faze you, awesome video great content!!! I love the Flying V’a but I’m an Explorer guy myself
It's funny about relative guitar size. Angus Young make an SG look huge. I've played flying V's for years. It's the most awkward feeling guitar when you play it for the first time, but then after you get used to it everything else feels awkward to play. V's rule. William C. central Indiana.
I love how offset V's look over symmetric V's like the Gibson, and at the same time I'm not crazy about pointy guitars. I haven't looked around much lately, but it seems to me like most offset V's are pointy. I loved what Reverend was doing with their Volcano model... Gibson V style vibes AND an offset V. But Gibson sent them a letter and that was the end of that. :(
Nice video, thanks! Hey, have you, do you, always rest your right pinky down on the guitar while playing? It sort of looks like you do. I ask this because I've always wondered if I was at a disadvantage at my future hopes of "speed picking" because my entire fist isn't "floating." Just curious.
I just sold my 2005 Gibson Flying V two weeks ago. I loved it, but most of my playing is at home sitting down and as Robert so easily demo'ed, the V is not made to be played sitting down (even with a guitar strap it's awkward). Great sound. Great playability. Killer looks. But ergonomically? Not so much.
I love flying v's !! The feel for me is perfect, I don't like Gibson bridges. I have all Floyd's for most of my life. Wish they made them with a Floyd !! How is the new Axe Fx ?? Any new presets you have concocted ?? Last, when are you going to make the follow up to your EP ?? Need some new riffage !!
I'm not sure if you have ever tried an Explorer style guitar, but if you haven't, I think you would really like it. It's pretty much everything you just said, only you can also play it normally while sitting. ;)
I have that exact same model, the Flying V Antique Natural, my most played and most fav guitar. Glad I got it when I saw it online a couple of years ago, probably the last one for sale in EU at that moment, I immediately bought it. Ps: I have been playing V since the 70s, bought my first one in 1979.
V's are way friendlier on your feet with a strap. They always feel so light and airy, like I'm holding a broomstick. You can feel they're total rock machines.
Ok so after I listened to the audio back when I was editing the guitar sounds amazing! It has a super articulate tone. What do you guys think?
I have had mine for a couple months now and Love this V!!!! I will get the nut switched to Bone but overall love the Burst 2,3 hum-buckers as well. Can’t wait for you next video with it. Thank You Robert!
Sweet!!!! Albert King blues style
Sounds very good. I don't have a Flying V, but always play with a Strap even when sitting, as it helps keep the guitar in the same position as when standing, feels more comfortable, and is easier on my back.
Yup. Sounded amazing. With a strap definitely would be pretty cool!
Tasty!
I fell in love with Flying V's since I saw Michael Schenker playing one with UFO on Don Kirschner's Rock Concert. The only one I've ever played was an Ibanez lawsuit model; it's uncomfortableness to play while seated was a deal-breaker. They still look and sound badass.
I had an Epiphone Flying V in the 90s that had a little flat piece of metal that was attached to the lower part with a hinge, that you could swing out and prop on your thigh, for playing when sitting down. I got it used, I think that was an aftermarket mod a previous owner did. it made the guitar much more stable to play while sitting.
Back in September 2021, I was in Nashville and visited the Gibson Garage. I had no intention whatsoever of buying a guitar, just play a bunch of them. After spending about 4 hours picking stuff from the walls, I bought that exact same model of V in that same color. Never before had I even considered owning a Flying V, but the one I played at the Garage simply spoke to me in a way that at the end of the day, I had to take it home. Soon after, I changed the layout of the controls and placed the volume at the top of the cluster. It is such an awesome guitar and once you get used to the straddling between the legs thing, it sounds and plays amazing. And of course, looks badass.
It's amazing how some guitars simply give you something others don't.
A few years ago my bandmate was looking for a new guitar (back then we both had medium-level guitars) and we went to a music shop. He wanted to try a Firebird, and I was almost disgusted at the idea because I always thought they are the ugliest guitars in the world. He tried it and said "It's cool, but I don't know". He handed it to me and I tried it...and it was instant love. I ended up getting that exact guitar a few months later, while my friend bought a Les Paul
Same with me,My V spoke to me at Guitar center,70's ebony mirror.And the only thing id change is the volume knob layout.
About 85, 86ish I was renting an apartment from an old jazz player that had a small music store. One day he invited me up into the attic above the music store to show me a white limited edition Jimi Hendrix flying V he had acquired. He said they put out things like this in limited quantities to Gibson dealers from time to time and he would buy them to stick in his attic as an investment. I got the feeling he would sell it to me if I was interested but I couldn't afford a used Gibson in those days. I have never run across another one. I'm guessing it had to be made between the late 70's to the mid 80's when he showed it to me. I probably should have bought it on a payment plan but didn't know how valuable it might be down the road.
The guy's son Craig Erickson did some recording and touring years later and took over his father's store. I wonder how many other treasures were in that attic?
I gigged a V for several years.......one of the most comfortable guitars for playing live. Plus, EVERYONE looks good behind a V!! 🤘🤘
as long as your standing im sure its lovely
It’s definitely a bit of an adjustment with sitting down but it feels great when standing and playing. I just got one of the new Epiphone Korina V’s and that’s got one of the rubber strips on the bottom horn. Works great in classical position and keeps the guitar from sliding around! Fun guitars!
Damn. God bless you for getting robbed
@@beefnacos6258 no u
Beautiful guitar. Sounds Killer. Fun watching you wrestle with it. They should install the original rubber strip on the side for sit down playing. Great video. Keep up the great work 🤘🎸
I had a V90 - 24 frets; single hot pickup; only a volume control; Steinberger locking nut and trem - but it had a fold-out leg rest which made it very easy to play seated. I'm surprised that hasn't become a standard feature.
I switched from drums to guitar after hearing Michael Schenker almost 40 years ago so I have ALWAYS wanted a Flying V. I've had four (two Gibsons, one Epiphone and one Dean) and they have all been so neck-heavy that I practically couldn't play them unless I was sitting. I had a 1958 Corona reissue that I just displayed for a few years but eventually traded it (with a few other guitars) for an old Strat. I wish they were as fun to play as they look but I haven't been lucky enough to find one of the "good" ones yet. I'll keep looking. 🙂
Saw ACDC, Cheap Trick and UFO in 76-77 for 8 bucks.
Was the Lights Out tour...wow.
Also was ACDC Let There Be Rock tour and Cheap Trick's 1st lp
You mean a Korina lol. They're pretty expensive these days.
I just bought the Epiphone 1958 re-issue Korina Flying V.....it is amazing! One of my first really good guitars was an early 1980's Ibanez Rocket Roll Flying V and I have owned several other V's since then so I am use to them. I am very comfortable sitting down and playing them without a strap. The 1958 re-issues have a rubber block on the bottom of the lower "leg" to add friction when it is an your leg to play it in a normal way.....pretty sweet idea. =)
What does the Epiphone sound like ? Near to the Gibson? Can't say the Gibson price tag is all that inviting!
Thanks!
I've owned several Vs. One of my favorites to play was actually a Dean Baby V. It was a short scale,
with a slightly smaller body. That guitar was a shred machine. Others I've owned were a Randy Rhoads Jackson with Duncans, a Jackson King V also with Duncans, and some off brand I got at a pawn shop.
One of my favorite things about my V is that when I play it sitting, it forces better playing posture.
I bought that same guitar in 2019.. it quickly became my favorite guitar to play after a little getting used to.. hard to put down sometimes.. and yes, the strap is critical.. thanks for the great video! 🤟
What's funny is that the only Flying V I have played in my life was a Lonnie Mack Signature V at Chelsea Guitars in New York. Had a Bigsby with that funky brace. Was super cool.
I liked what you were saying about feeling like you were having to push your legs together and hold the guitar up. That’s the reason I play a dean ml, because it’s a v that has the extra top two horns of the explorer and that holds up the guitar by itself at a perfect playing position when in between the legs. You should check one out some time.
5:36 LOL it sounded glorious, pure swamp rock from that CCR riff.
2:30 yup some guitars looks small on 6"+ guys i thinked that sg is much bigger but it's kinda small (because Angus is a small guy)
I have a '22 Flying V & '22 Explorer in Antique Natural... As well as a '22 70s Flying V & '20 70s Explorer in Classic White. They are absolutely stunning and great playing guitars!
Hey Robert, thank you so much, I prefer to play in a classical position, because for me, it feels more natural when you stand up, and your shoulder, at least mine, is not in an awkward position, like in the casual position, and how you played the flying V, seems great for that position rather than the casual one. Oh and 6.2 (6.2 feet = 188.976 cm) you are tall, never imagined it. Take care, cheers.
the first Flying V I saw was played by Dave Davies of the Kinks and I thought it would be awesome to have one. But once I got a Telecaster, I never went in the V direction. Some V's have a rubber strip on the outside of the lower V so that you can put that on your thigh and avoid the slide instead of have to perch it like in the video.
Flying V is a brighter Les Paul or a darker SG, whichever you prefer.
Where a Les Paul might be too muddy, or an SG to ice picky, the V will shine.
I got to see Bill Peek play a '66 V at a private party in Houston. He was great. Johnny Johnson and Dave Masala also played. Bill Peek was on Hot Legs with Rod Stewart
Coincidentally, just got mine this week. You can play it sitting down with a strap nicely. Additionally, depending on the chair in your house you can lounge with it. Meaning it is actually possible to lean back in a chair and play it without a strap.
I've almost exclusively played Vs for 10 years now in the classical possition, they're so comfortable imo, all of them. Get your left leg up and it'll hold itself in position, the key is to use the lower horn for stability on your right leg
Have you ever used one of those leg rest things some people put on their Flying Vs?
@@RobertBakerGuitar no, not attached to the guitar. i think i updated my comment as you replied, but If you get something under your left foot to bring it up a couple inches and use the tip of bottom horn as a stabilizer in your right calf it should lock itself in
@@RobertBakerGuitar im also only 5'7", so YMMV 😅
I promised myself that if I ever got back into playing live again, I'd pick up this exact model/color of Flying V... love 'em.
Also, shout out to Leon Todd! I cross-reference between you two (as well as Ben Eller) All. The Freakin. Time. You guys are my Modern Day Cowboys of guitar heroes for me....
Cool video! Flying V's are cool! I have owned several (Gibson, Epiphone, Tokai) and now own a great Dean Custom Run with a Floyd and a straight six headstock. V's definitely have a sound of their own (unlike the Explorer, which i find is pretty much a dead ringer for a Les Paul), akin to a slightly beefier SG. On the bridge pickup, I hear a distinct, midrangey, "barking" cutting tone that's definitely its own thing. On the neck pickup, i find they sound pretty SG-like. A great guitar design, with a unique voice.
My first electric was a limited edition V,not sure what year,maybe 75 ish,I found playing that guitar sitting down superior to playing say a LP,the V part of guitar sat perfect between my legs,very comfortable like it was meant to be,had a Sunn Concert Lead also,was starving had to sell it,one of the saddest days..😢
I have a Dean Flying V which I received as a birthday gift years ago. I play it almost exclusively sitting down. While I hesitate to compare it to a Gibson, it does have a rich tone and an unbelievable amount of sustain.
I used to have a 2001 V98, which was a blend between 58 and 67 specs. I liked it except for the 496R/500T pickups they used to put in Vs
I had a 58 anniversary edition made of Karina wood. Super light weight. Looks and sounds so cool. But as a sit-down player it's just not comfortable unless you are a classical style trained player.
Just recently picked up a used Jackson King V. First V and gotta say, it takes some getting used to, but it's worth it.
Hey Robert, isn't there a strap in the case? Just wondered...I loved the sound of the V but I think I'd absolutely go for the bound neck of the 70's V which is now also offered in antique natural.
I purchased a Korean Epiphone a few years ago, modded with Seymour Duncan '59s, CTS pots, Switchcraft switch and jack and Mojo Mustard Cap! Its an Amazing guitar!!! All Korina, but more pieces of it and veneer top and back but looks and sounds awesome!
I've seen Flying Vs with a lever sorta thing on the bottom for playing sitting down.
I have the same issue with size perception. I recently had someone tell me that the LTD les paul bass, I was playing looked like a normally les paul guitar in my hands. I'm 6'1 260lbs.
I have an Epi?refinished(terrible job) V,but it sounds SO good!Esp in the neck position,coil tapped with slight overdrive,Wow!😍
I am a fan of the Flying V I have an original 67, and a reissue 67. I really like the articulation, the neck is awesome, both of mine have a maestro. they are fun on stage!
V's are the coolest looking guitars ever.
I have an Epiphone Bonamassa Amos and it looks fantastic, sounds fantastic and plays great (definitely not my prefered neck, but the style is worth the extra effort :p ).
Enjoy this one ;)
Cool name too!
The first 'good' (ie: expensive) guitar I ever played was a Flying V. 1994, 15 years old, work experience. First job on day one was to tune and wipe down every guitar in the store. I made a beeline for the Gibsons. This was only a few years after they launched the '67 reissue (1990-1992?). Fell in love with it and wanted one ever since. 25 years later, after acquiring every other guitar I'd ever wanted, I finally got my V. 2019 model, pretty much identical to this one except with the '67 style truss rod cover. It was worth the wait.
Son has Aria Pro II Flying V from the 70s. From Carter's Vintage Guitars...it's amazing..it's just Gibson MIJ. Nothing sounds like it.
Turn it way up loud.
I had a 2011 Gibson V with a factory Floyd Rose. Never have loved Floyd Rose and most tremelos. It's me. Also cream yellowing white is great on fenders but not gibsons for me. The same cream white, and black or white plastics is perfect for my squier esquire ( white trim).This Vee on here sounds phenomenal Robert Baker. My old ears were trained on George Lynch and Molly Hatchet. Lonnie Mack played in my family's bar for years. Neal Young visited him there once in mid 1970s Many others played v's well. Mine was traded for a beautiful tele. The V I had always played great, sounded great, but in the end the color and seated position required helped move it to a happier home. Now I want one like THIS VIDEO for because..... Traded mine to Cincy guitar center 5 yrs ago. Michael Schenker, Albert King, Lonnie Mack, Jimi Hendrix, and many more greats loved them. Summary, some vee's are worth keeping. Well loved like chevy chevelles. Not many bad ones.
I have one of the Epi korina V's, it's lighter than my SG! Insane! It's quickly becoming my favorite for playing out.
I had a 1985 Gibson Flying V, in ‘Panther Pink’, with factory installed Kahler tremolo. I hate myself for having sold that guitar in 1996. It was one of 2, known to exist. It had “High Output” humbuckers (Dirty Fingers prototypes), which sounded fucking amazing. The playability and tone of that guitar were insane. I bought it used, in 1992, for $360 out the door. I sold it for the exact same price. The only reason I sold it, is because I needed money to replace my stolen bicycle, while living in San Francisco, where I was working as a bicycle messenger. At the time, I had my 1991 Gibson SG Special, which was my first “real” electric guitar, and my Flying V. Since there was no way I was parting with my SG, and had no money to buy another bike so I could continue working as a bike messenger, I regrettably had to sell my Flying V. Not a day goes by where I don’t wish that I never had to sell that guitar. I have seen the other one of the two known 85 Panther Pink V, with the factory Kahler come up for sale in 2015, but I could not afford the price of $2k.
It’s funny, because I own several Gibson Les Pauls, my 1991 SG Special, several Fenders, Orange tube amps and cabs, yet I still can’t afford to drop $2k cash for the V, if I were to find it again. All of my gear, was bought either on layaway, or on a multiple year/zero interest payment plan.
So if anybody wants to start a Go Fund Me, to raise money for me to get my Flying V back, let me know. 😜
The Gibson V is my favorite guitar. I have a early 2004 with an ebony fretboard.
I think they look bigger when I person is playing them , but the feel just right when your playing them , my favorite body style by Gibson , wish I could have a new one with the same ne is they use on the 61 sgd there currently making , those are the perfect necks
They are my 2nd favorite behind Explorers. But they’re first when it comes to the cool factor!
I had a lawsuit Aria V when I was in High School...at Whetstone Sr. High. Have you ever tried any Burny's, Greco's, Ibanez, Tokai's etc. or even the Epiphone's from the Terada, FujiGen factories and Orville's? I own a 98 Orville LPS I love it, I get a lot of compliments on it and when people play it. I had Mike from "A String Instruments Repair" do some fret work and he loved it, said he's never worked one before and was excited! I got an Aria Pro2 LPS and a Burny SG....The Japanese are exceptional craftsmen!
I have a Korean made Tokai V this same colour, it's not actually korina wood and the pickguard is black, but it's one of the greatest guitars I've ever played.👍
I always kind of thought that the V was a flashy disco kind of thing, but that one sounds amazing!
Flying V, disco !? Really?
@@tball5677, yeah, i know, its just how mind works.
I have one, a 2008 Faded with 3 pickups, and I also love my one. The only thing about this particular model is the pickguard. I love the 70's pickguard, and this little one doesn't look beautiful to me. But, still, a lovely guitar.
Flying Vs are my favorite shape to play standing, there is not that much wood that gets in the way of my forearm and does not need a belly cut because there is no wood there either, although LTDs Vs do have one, on the downside, the neck dive is bad, I do place the strap button in the inner part of the V, sort of like Hetfield or Mustaine, still I believe the strap should be attached to the neckplate, or just have more weight on the lower wing to compensate... access is great up to the 24th and 23rd fret, although I almost never use the, it's nice to know I can reach them ha!
Great video!!! Any chance we can get that higher gain preset?
Never owned or played a Flying V before, but is is such an awesome iconic guitar! Not just for heavy metal, such a great onstage guitar. Thanks for the chance to win this guitar & thank you SweetWater!
Sounds awesome in my opinion. It can get the quack, the attack, and the growl. What's not to love...except maybe the price.
I have played a couple of V's here and there. I can understand the feeling of keeping it from falling; neck dive is definitely an issue. Like the tone, but if I were to get a pointy guitar I'd rather have a Jackson Rhoads.
The V and the Explorer came out way before their time. I wish Gibson was still as innovative as they were in the 50s.
Gibson has tried innovations over the years. It's not something that Gibson owners and traditionalists want.
@@dirtyworks8084 Yeah I really think they got it right the first time. They’ve just become more a collector’s brand nowadays, which is where the money is, so that makes sense.
There was a guy I use to know from here in St Louis named Billy Peek who almost exclusively played Flying Vs.
I actually never wanted a Reverse Flying V, Rob. The Korina is one 1 my fav!
Actually, the Flying V has become so associated with the high gain, heavy metal genre that people often fail to see that it is an incredibly versatile guitar, despite genre. The body shape allows for the most focused midrange of virtually any humbucker loaded guitar. It is punchy, articulate, maintains excellent note and string definition and serves extremely well within the blues genre. It's totally one of Gibson's greatest designs. Make it your own-you won't regret it!
>SG has entered the chat
I can think of a couple of blues players who used V's. Albert King is probably the most notable among them.
It’s interesting the original market for Vs was for country western players but they didn’t go for it!
You also have absolutely unrestricted access to all the frets, and the clean sounds are versatile enough for anything, including jazz!👍
Some models of the V have a rubber pad on the bottom edge to help playing while sitting down. Whether that works or not is debatable.
I just got my 1st flying v. Epiphone Prophesy . Really enjoying it!
I own a V since 4 years now - wonderful instrument, great sound, perfect playability unfortunately some tuning issues...
That is really cool! I have never played a Flying V, but wanted to and wanted to own one also. Keep putting out great content Robert Baker. You’re trustworthy and down to earth. You inspire me to keep playing and coming up with my own ideas on guitar. Rock on! 🤘🏼🎸
Man, that sounds great through your setup!
Hi, nice review and great great playing. Can't say in 30 years I've ever played a Flying V . I suppose the angle of the neck when sitting has put me off but you seemed to have managed! Might be time to have a look.
I've seen a few with a leg stand built into the bottom of the body
Bought a 2010 Korina 58 reissue flying v thing sounds amazing.
Always wanted a V...... Just haven't done it yet. I would probably go full pointy RR Jackson or something modern.
What would you say about getting a Jackson JS32 King V for those of us who can't afford official Gibson or Epiphones?
What amp model are you running in this Axe Fx patch? Sounds killer!
V's, of any source, make you play differently. Especially if you are seated. I had a Dean V and it was a great guitar, I just could not get comfortable playing it in a sitting position, which is how I play most of the time.
Johnny Winter played one. Hendrix occasionally ,Isle of white. Albert King I think Bonamassa has that one now. Billy Gibbons.
I have a Gibson Flying V that I modified with P90s because 1. they sound awesome and 2. Leslie West. I always wanted a Rocket Roll, though. Bob Mould played a Rocket Roll in Husker Du and it's a major reason I like Flying Vs so much. Good luck finding one with the original Super 70 pickups for a reasonable price. I ended up buying a Gibson because it was cheaper!
I’m still trying to decide between a Gibson Tribute and a Schecter Solo II Custom. Cool video ❤
2:02 I think this guitar would look GIGANTIC in my hands. I am 5'7 (1,69m) and I am not even able to do those claw style chords like Hendrix.
How bout on me at 5,9? 😮
I love traditional Vs get your hands on a Dean Michael Schenker they are so easy to play. Also get your hands on a Dean ML even easier to play.
Rob, when you record a video like this one, is the guitar audio we are hearing coming from your FX or you miking a speaker? Your sound is freaking great! And what are you hearing it out of? That Vee is sweet!
Everyone thinks the V pose with the headstock at 1 o’clock is about looking cool, it’s only when you play it do you realise the body shape causes that. I own a lefty 2003 model.
Explorer at 3pm.
SG half past five.
What action do you set your guitars at? Would love to see a vid on how you setup your guitars
Vs are small until you start walking around with them: the wings hit everything.
0:00 on the counter
"If it's free, it's for me"
I'm 6' 1" and the only guitars I have that don't look too small while I'm playing them are my Explorers. I love the Explorers but the Flying V isn't for me. It sounds real nice.
I bought a Flying V in 1994, played it for 23 years. Then I sold it in a momentary lapse of reason (aka GAS). My wife told me I was gonna regret it, but… Well, she was right, instant regret. I tried to replace it with a 2012-model, but it didn’t feel anything like it. Just wrong. Two years ago a white made in March 1995 popped up for sale. Unloaded a EBMM within minutes, but the seller told me someone outbid me. Luckily an hour later he asked if I was still interested. As soon as I played the first chord, it felt like an old friend. It’s my shared #1. My live-guitar, and my Maybach Albatroz 65 (SG jr.) is my sitting down-guitar.
I was lucky enough to be at my local guitar shop a couple years ago when Joe Bonamassa walked in to check the place out, looking for vintage fender amps as he does, and he was very proud to have his tech bring in a '58 Explorer, a '58 V and a gorgeous '59 LP to show off. The "V" is a great guitar, just not comfy for me, although, holding these beauty's did feel pretty damn good....
Lol your hair on the guitar scared you but hitting the lower part of the v on you desk didn’t even faze you, awesome video great content!!! I love the Flying V’a but I’m an Explorer guy myself
Great Review on the V..I don't have one and now I will build soon..
It's funny about relative guitar size. Angus Young make an SG look huge. I've played flying V's for years. It's the most awkward feeling guitar when you play it for the first time, but then after you get used to it everything else feels awkward to play. V's rule. William C. central Indiana.
I’ve been considering the Epiphone version of this V. Appreciate the video.
My girlfriend has the exact same model, going through a JCM 800...it's just an amazing. Oh, the punch! 😍
I love how offset V's look over symmetric V's like the Gibson, and at the same time I'm not crazy about pointy guitars. I haven't looked around much lately, but it seems to me like most offset V's are pointy. I loved what Reverend was doing with their Volcano model... Gibson V style vibes AND an offset V. But Gibson sent them a letter and that was the end of that. :(
Nice video, thanks! Hey, have you, do you, always rest your right pinky down on the guitar while playing? It sort of looks like you do. I ask this because I've always wondered if I was at a disadvantage at my future hopes of "speed picking" because my entire fist isn't "floating." Just curious.
I just sold my 2005 Gibson Flying V two weeks ago. I loved it, but most of my playing is at home sitting down and as Robert so easily demo'ed, the V is not made to be played sitting down (even with a guitar strap it's awkward). Great sound. Great playability. Killer looks. But ergonomically? Not so much.
I love flying v's !! The feel for me is perfect, I don't like Gibson bridges. I have all Floyd's for most of my life. Wish they made them with a Floyd !!
How is the new Axe Fx ?? Any new presets you have concocted ?? Last,
when are you going to make the follow up to your EP ?? Need some new riffage !!
Really nailing that rock n roll vibe
I had an Ibanes Lawsuit in when I was in High School, but like firebirds...for me these are so long I end up hitting it on stuff
I'm not sure if you have ever tried an Explorer style guitar, but if you haven't, I think you would really like it. It's pretty much everything you just said, only you can also play it normally while sitting. ;)
Wonderfull guitar sound but the shape is little wierd. I have an acoustic/electric flying V, maybe I'll have to bring it out and try it again!
I have that exact same model, the Flying V Antique Natural, my most played and most fav guitar. Glad I got it when I saw it online a couple of years ago, probably the last one for sale in EU at that moment, I immediately bought it.
Ps: I have been playing V since the 70s, bought my first one in 1979.
V's are way friendlier on your feet with a strap. They always feel so light and airy, like I'm holding a broomstick. You can feel they're total rock machines.