--there are some cool new features that distinguish the 2013 model: serial number at fret 22 (and starting over again, mine is just four digits), cool variant Hallmark logos molded into the pickup covers, and delicious triple binding. Bob's attention to detail is getting ever finer.
--I was intensely curious about how the sunburst would look--the pictures I saw online all told different stories. This 3 tone exceeded my expectations, it's deep and rich, definitely a nod to the pre-Ventures sunbursts and not the sometimes yellow-centric later 'bursts. All colors asserting themselves and yet blending smoothly to the mellow center. I like it.
--Sunburst back of neck reveals some pretty bird's-eye maple. And one thing you can't tell from photos is how the Hallmark logo on the peghead seems to float between layers of clearcoat, instead of lying flat like a decal--the effect is hard to describe, it's kind of 3-D...at this point I should say that the only mind-affecting substance I've had today is coffee, about 13 hours ago. It's the guitar, not me, really
--the pickups are telling me that I was wise to order a speaker upgrade for my main amp last week. I use small tube amps (giggable with PA in the Americana and sometimes drummerless styles I play) and the H60C easily takes them into aggro territory, though in a musical way (except for that flapping speaker that's getting swapped out). Each pickup is distinctly voiced and the middle position is surprisingly useful--usually I toggle between bridge and neck but am not impressed by the combined sounds, but on this guitar the pickups cooperate and harmonize instead of just blurring together.
--I can get memories of the feel of my old Mk I playing the H60C, but other than those echoes this guitar is unlike any other one I've played in 30 years. After playing for a few hours I feel like I'm only beginning to understand what's going on here and how to tap into all the sound that's built in. In pt. 2 I'll report back after I've had time to get better acquainted.
--Cool extras from Bob included an extra set of GHS reinforced strings, a Kustom Kings all-Hallmark CD, and an official Hallmark/Johnny Ramone Army guitar pick, thick enough to last through a 30-minute Ramones set. (He knows I'm partial to Hallmark IIs/JRs and he's trying to keep that going
) Bob also signed the peghead back and inscribed it with the encouraging words: "Peel out!" As if there was any other way to drive this axe....Stay tuned. Gonna go play my new guitar some more.
