So I've been gassing for an R8 or R9 for a bit now.. doing lots of research and comparisons and playing.. I am almost at a decision point on a couple of them.. hoping to have my next guitar in a week or so.. part of what's puzzling me is the gap or differences between mid 90's through mid 2000's and 2009 to current..
So any of you guys out there that play or collect the R series.. I'd like to get your thoughts.. or even if you just like and research the R series..
I was so close to getting a 2002 R8 up in Detroit for $2800... they guy and I had discussed it but it was 800 miles so I had to fly.. by the time I could arrange for the ticket, he sold it.. it was beautiful ... but hey..there's lots of them around and now I've begun focusing on R9's as I understand they're lighter and better tops.. I've found a few at reasonable price points but they're in different age groups.. ones a 2001, a couple of 2007's and a 2011.. a couple are VOS..
the 2011 is a Collectors series VOS which looks extra stressed some rust on the metal parts, body's worn a bit.. very cool.. I'm leaning towards this one while others are in mint condition.. very pretty. So for me.. one of these may have to go through a stress reconditioning to get it where I want it.
but first.. which might be considered the better years for the Historic R series? Any opinion on 57 classics versus burst buckers; maybe just replace with Fralins or Lollars or something? any thoughts on the mahogany bodies, I understand they used different woods in different years..