Does anyone know anything about this guitar? (Marlin)

[Nosyar88]

I got this guitar last year and i dont know anything for sure about it, only that it has a pearl inlay on the 12th fret and it's "apparently" around 30 years old. Was hoping someone here knew more.

Marlin Sidewinder No.3
This is a link to some pics of it...

[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

Any info on this bass will be appreciated even if it's negative stuff, i just want to know more about it, Thanks!

 

[superbassman2000]

judging by the color and the pickup configuration, i'd say it closer to 20-25 years old (somewhere in the 80s)

 

[Rusty Chainsaw]

Marlin were a cheap, entry-level brand based in Wales, and sold their stuff mostly in the UK during the 80s. They were quite popular at the time, despite notoriously bad construction and plywood bodies on many models. They were sold through music shops, but also through catalogues (such as Kays and Littlewoods).

Marlin were bought by Hohner sometime in the late '80s, and Hohner still occasionally release guitars with the Marlin name (as "Marlin by Hohner").

 

[Mulley]

I have one of these, it was my very 1st bass and it was possibly the worst bass i have ever played to date, it is currently sitting in my room in pieces as i am somewhat customizing it

 

[GeoffByrne]

The later marlin by Hohner basses were a (slight) improvment.

 

[DeanT]

The "Marlin by Hohner" basses have been made in Korea since 1989. Your Sidewinder is most likely made in East Germany, where the Marlins were made up until '89. They were considered "medium quality" when new.

 

[Mulley]

the orginal sidewinders were made in wales

 

[caragel]

A metallic red Marlin Sidewinder was my first bass way back in 1987/1988. It was fine to learn on as a first bass and did fine for me as a bedroom practice / learning instrument.

I followed it with a precision being a major Steve Harris fan, sold it onto my younger brothers friend to learn on. Must admit for a while I did have fond memories of the thing, then about 4 years later saw one again and tried it for old times sake......oh my god....what a toneless plank. I'll say one thing tho' learning to play on it may have been good, because after being able to play it you could probably play just about anything!!!!