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Yep. Great point. I can say for sure, that I've never played a new bass that sounds or feels like this one.
Something came to me via Fedex today. It's got 4 strings and is blue. Photos tomorrow.
You also can't deny that part of the experience is the knowledge of what you're playing. You don't feel like playing a MIM Fender is as awesome as playing a vintage Fender, partly because of the perceived reputation. I guess my point is that most vintage instruments aren't worth the price, except by virtue of sentiment. I definitely think they're excellent instruments, even superior to most today.
Yeah, but didn't you recently sell a bass that was more valuable than similar basses because the pickup is not longer made? Its essentially the same thing. Scarcity increases demand, demand increases price.

It wasn't more valuable because of the pickup, it was more valuable because there were only 30 ever made
It wasn't more valuable because of the pickup, it was more valuable because there were only 30 ever made, and it was a great sounding/playing instrument. Scarcity alone doesn't increase demand, reputation increases demand, and scarcity increases value of a highly reputable commodity. For example, the Ford Edsel is scarce but it was a pretty terrible car, so it's value is low. The only reason that vintage instruments are so pricey is because they have a reputation for being awesome, and good quality ones are rare. My only point is they're often over-priced...not that they don't have value or aren't superior to current instruments.
lpcarter, congrats on your new 66. I hope it gives you another 46 years of awesome mojo!![]()
That is only partially true. Prior to the Darkstar becoming scarce and no longer made these sold regularly for only a slight increase over standard Glaubs. In addition there are plenty of Skylines that are limited to 30 or less (the original Duck Dunn with gold guard is one) that don't sell for anywhere near $1000. The DPLE II is definitely more desirable because of a pickup that can't be gotten anymore.
Generally, poorly made guitars or vehicles do not become desirable ever, unless you are some hipster trying to be like Jack White and pay a grand for a $30 Silvertone.



You are making the point that scarcity does increase value (in the case of the DPLEII) and that it doesn't (vintage Fenders). My point is that 60s Fenders and 60s US muscle cars are not poorly made. Neither are Lakland Skylines for that matter.
Where you working in Florida? Got time for a drink before you go? First round on me.![]()

Never expected to use my MBA or MS in finance to consider Brandon's posts in Lakland thread on a bass forum.![]()
No no no. You've missed it entirely. Scarcity ONLY increases value when the reputation of the item is good. The Edsel is scarce, but was terrible, so it's value is low. Vintage Fenders are awesome, and well cared for ones are scarce, so their value is (rightfully) high. The DPLEII is scarce, and its awesome, so it's value is also high.
I was simply agreeing with your earlier indication that $7500 for a vintage fender is too much. Should you pay more for a vintage fender in good shape than a US Lakland? Probably, but I (personally) don't think you should pay 2-3x more
I have to disagree about reliability of new cars versus classics. I've owned 5 classics (60s) and they had less issues than the new or newer cars I've owned. Yes, the classics don't handle or accelerate like the POS Cobra Mustang I had, but my power windows in my '62 Thunderbird still work, while the Cobra's quit within a year... several times. A lot of modern technology (car parts) are designed to break in a short amount of time IMO, to keep $$ coming into the dealer repair department. Just my .02
No no no. You've missed it entirely. Scarcity ONLY increases value when the reputation of the item is good. The Edsel is scarce, but was terrible, so it's value is low.