Also some of the models have book matched backs while others maybe tri-backed. A Penco A22M may or may not have an adjustable saddle via thumbscrews. There is bit of variance between the Penco acoustic models depending on what year the guitar was manufactured. The Ibanez line was distributed on the West coast of the U.S., while the Greco was exclusively for Japan, and Penco was distributed on the East coast of the U.S. These were identical to the Ibanez Destroyer and the Greco Destroyer of the same period. The Penco brand was also put on "lawsuit" Korina-finished Gibson Explorer-styled guitars. They also made 12-string acoustic guitars. Penco also made bolt neck copies of Gibson's Les Paul and SG guitars and basses, Rickenbacker 4001 basses, Fender Stratocaster/ Fender Telecaster copies, Fender Jazz Bass copies and the odd mandolin and banjo. Reverse engineered and built to spec, Penco produced some of the closest replicas of the Martin D-28, D-35, D-41, D-45, and D-45 12 models in existence today. Penco made Martin and Gibson style acoustic guitars. Their acoustics were usually but not always made with laminated back and sides and often laminated tops. I plan to replace the bridge, set it up and keep it forever.The Penco brand was of relatively high quality. We can't talk price here, but I paid very little. (or whatever the factory that now puts out modern Ibanez's was called back then.) I think they're one of the best kept secrets around. My information is that they were built for the Philadelphia Music Comapny by Ibanez and branded Penco. The rosewood one I played sounded very much like a D-35. I'd compare the mahogany with a Martin D-18. But even with that, the thing sounds amazing. Which is a really good thing because it's all warped and separated and the bolt is the only thing holding it on. And the bridge is bolted on, like a Gibson. It has a Gibsonesque bridge with the screw saddle setting. Tough to tell, but I think it's laminated. The one I purchased has a spruce top and mahogany back and sides. I agree with it being thin, and it had laminated rosewood back and sides. I played one that was the studio knock around guitar a few years back while directing a voice session and it was amazing. I had been keeping my eyes open for a Penco. It rocks!Īnd about two months ago I purchased a Mid 70's Penco Dread. I recently changed out the hardware and replaced the pick-ups witgh a Dimarzio Super Distortion and a P90 for my oldest son. I am the original owner of a '74 or '75 Penco Les Paul Black Beauty.
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