Vintage: affordable guitars and basses

Vintage: guitars with unbeatable value for money

The Vintage brand has established itself as an essential reference for musicians looking for instruments with unbeatable value for money. Whether you are a beginner guitarist, a discerning amateur or a professional, Vintage offers a complete range of electric, acoustic, electro-acoustic guitars and basses that never disappoint. The secret of this success lies in two words: Trevor Wilkinson. The famous British luthier designed every model inspired by the American legends of the guitar, with constant attention to detail and playability.

At Green Musicians, we offer a selection of Vintage guitars in short supply chain, sourced directly from the brand. This means you benefit from new, guaranteed, flawless instruments, without the usual intermediaries, at prices that defy all competition.

Quick summary

• Origin: United Kingdom, designed by Trevor Wilkinson
• Specialty: electric, acoustic, electro-acoustic guitars and basses inspired by the classics
• Strengths: luthier quality, Wilkinson pickups, locking tuners, refined finishes
• Flagship range: V100 (Les Paul style), V6 (Stratocaster style), VSA (semi-acoustics), V300/V440 (acoustics), VJ74 (basses)
• Target audience: advanced beginners, seasoned amateurs, stage and studio musicians
• Availability: more than 25 models available at Green Musicians

The story of the Vintage brand

Vintage is a British brand born from the desire to offer quality musical instruments at accessible prices. The adventure began in the 1990s in the United Kingdom, when a British company decided to create a range of guitars based on the classic designs that shaped the history of rock. But for the company to succeed where many had failed, one essential element was missing: the expertise of a renowned luthier.

That's where Trevor Wilkinson comes in. A legendary luthier and inventor of the Wilkinson Vibrola bridge, he brought his unique expertise to Vintage. Trevor Wilkinson is known worldwide for his pickup, bridge and tuner designs. He has worked with the biggest brands and has a deep understanding of what makes a good instrument: flawless playability, authentic sound and rock-solid reliability.

Under Trevor Wilkinson's direction, Vintage developed entire ranges of guitars that draw on the aesthetic and sonic codes of legendary American instruments. The V100 is inspired by the solid-body guitars of the 1950s, the V6 evokes the Californian double-cutaway sculpted-body models, and the VSA recalls jazz semi-acoustics. But Vintage doesn't just copy: every model is rethought with exclusive Wilkinson components that improve playability and tuning stability.

Over the decades, Vintage has built a solid reputation. Musicians around the world recognise the brand as a safe bet for starting out, progressing and even performing on stage. Guitar teachers systematically recommend it to their students, and many seasoned guitarists keep one in their collection as a rehearsal or backup guitar. Today, Vintage continues to innovate with series like the Reissued range, which offers distressed finishes and selected woods for an even more authentic sound.

The Vintage guitar ranges

The strength of Vintage lies in the diversity of its catalogue. Each range meets a specific need, from saturated rock to folk fingerstyle, via jazz and groove bass. Here is a detailed overview of the ranges available at Green Musicians.

V100 electric guitars: the soul of rock

The V100 series is Vintage's emblematic range. Inspired by the solid-body guitars of the late 1950s, it offers a thick, warm and powerful sound, ideal for rock, blues and hard rock. The mahogany body topped with a flamed maple top provides exceptional sustain, while the Wilkinson humbucker pickups deliver powerful output with remarkable mid-range clarity.

The glued-in mahogany neck with a 'C' profile offers a comfortable grip, and the rosewood fingerboard adds warmth to the tone. Sunburst, Iced Tea, Lemon Drop and Arctic White finishes are all nods to the mythical colours that made the history of the electric guitar. Every V100 is fitted with locking Wilkinson tuners, guaranteeing impeccable tuning stability even with heavy vibrato use.

At Green Musicians, you'll find several versions of the V100, including the V100AFD Paradise Flamed Maple, an edition with a spectacular flamed finish, or the V100CS Cherry Sunburst, a timeless classic. Other finishes are also available, such as the V100BLK Gloss Black for a more modern look, or the V100HB Flame Honeyburst for lovers of flamed wood.

V6 electric guitars: the Californian sound

The V6 series is inspired by the sculpted-body guitars born in California in the 1950s. With its alder or basswood body, bolt-on maple neck and three single-coil Wilkinson pickups, the V6 delivers a crystal-clear, snappy and expressive sound. It's the ideal guitar for funk, pop, country picking and classic rock.

The V6 stands out for its exceptional playability. The maple neck with maple or rosewood fingerboard offers a fast, slick feel, perfect for solos and open-string playing. The Wilkinson Vibrola vibrato, designed by Trevor Wilkinson himself, delivers stable pitch effects without detuning the instrument. It's one of the best vibratos in its category.

The flagship model is the V6 V6MRSSB Distressed with amp, a complete pack including an amplifier to get started immediately. The distressed finish, with its hand-aged look, gives the instrument the charm of a guitar that has already lived. Other V6 models are also available, such as the V6MSSB Reissued Maple Sunburst or the V6SSB Reissued Sunburst, perfect for guitarists who want the Californian sound without breaking the bank.

VSA semi-acoustics: jazz and blues elegance

The VSA series is dedicated to guitarists who love the warm, resonant sound of semi-acoustic guitars. With their carved hollow bodies, maple tops and glued-in necks, the VSAs offer a full, round and articulate sound. They are perfect for jazz, blues, rockabilly and even alternative rock.

The star model is the VSA500CR Semi-Acoustic Cherry Red. With its striking Cherry Red finish, Wilkinson mini-humbucker pickups and floating bridge, it perfectly captures the spirit of the great jazz guitars of the 1960s. The centre block under the top reduces feedback and adds definition to the sound, making it usable even at high volumes.

The VSA500 is a top choice for jazz guitarists who want an instrument with an authentic sound without spending thousands of euros. Its fluid playability and comfortable neck also make it an excellent stage guitar, where it stands out both visually and sonically.

V300 and V440 acoustic guitars: folk at its purest

Vintage hasn't forgotten acoustic guitarists. The V300 and V440 series offer quality folk guitars, with solid spruce tops and mahogany or rosewood backs and sides. These instruments deliver a rich, balanced and projecting sound, suited to both fingerstyle and singing accompaniment.

The V300AQOFT Guitar Outfit Antiqued is a complete pack including the guitar, a bag and accessories. Its antiqued finish, with a subtle ageing of the varnish, gives it instant vintage charm. It's the ideal choice for a first quality instrument that won't disappoint over years of practice.

The V440AQ Historic Series Acoustic Antique is a higher-end model, with a nobler wood selection and meticulous lutherie. The Historic series draws on the aesthetic codes of American acoustic guitars from the 1930s, with an antiqued finish that enhances the wood grain. Its voice is full, with deep basses and sparkling trebles.

VE330 electro-acoustics: the stage within reach

For guitarists who want to plug their acoustic in on stage or in the studio, Vintage offers the VE330 series. These electro-acoustic guitars combine a spruce top, mahogany sides and an integrated preamp system. The under-saddle pickup faithfully captures the vibrations of the top, while the preamp with EQ lets you adjust the sound to your environment.

The VE330BK Electro Folk Black is a guitar with an elegant, discreet look, perfect for intimate venues as well as rock concerts. Its glossy black finish gives it a modern look, while its playability is typical of Vintage: smooth, fast and fatigue-free. It's an excellent guitar for the musician who wants a single versatile instrument for the stage and home studio.

VJ74 basses: groove and power

Vintage also offers high-quality basses with the VJ74 series. Inspired by American electric basses from the 1970s, these instruments offer a powerful, punchy and defined sound. The mahogany body, bolt-on maple neck and rosewood fingerboard provide a warm, articulate tone with generous sustain.

The VJ74SVB Bass 25th Anniversary Silver Burst is an exceptional model celebrating Vintage's 25th anniversary. Its Silver Burst finish, with a silver-to-black gradient, is absolutely stunning. The Wilkinson pickups deliver a round, punchy sound, perfect for rock, funk and soul. It's a bass that won't go unnoticed on stage, both for its looks and its voice.

Guitar packs: everything to get started

Vintage also offers complete packs for guitarists who are starting out or who want a coherent set without worrying about accessories. These packs usually include the guitar, an amp, a bag, a tuner, picks and a strap. It's the ideal solution for offering a first quality instrument or for starting from scratch with reliable gear.

The V6 V6MRSSB Distressed with amp pack is an excellent example: a superior quality electric guitar with an aged finish, accompanied by an amplifier for an immediate playing experience. On the acoustic side, the V300AQOFT Antiqued pack offers everything you need to start folk under good conditions.

Buying guide: which Vintage guitar should you choose?

For rock and hard rock

If you're a fan of saturated rock, blues-rock or hard rock, the V100 series is made for you. The mahogany body and Wilkinson humbuckers deliver a thick, powerful sound that suits distortion perfectly. The V100AFD Paradise Flamed Maple is a particularly recommended choice for its spectacular look and superior quality flamed wood.

For funk, pop and country

The V6 series is the queen of crystal-clear, snappy sound. Its three single-coils offer a palette of tones ranging from sparkling clean to energetic crunch. For funk rhythm guitar, country picking or arpeggiated pop, the V6 is unbeatable in its price category. The Wilkinson Vibrola adds an expressive dimension for Hank Marvin-style pitch effects.

For jazz and blues

Jazz and blues lovers will find what they're looking for with the VSA500. Its semi-hollow body offers a warm, resonant sound, perfect for melodic jazz phrases and blues accompaniments. The Wilkinson mini-humbuckers add warmth without sacrificing clarity, and the floating bridge allows fine action adjustment.

For fingerstyle and accompaniment

The V300 and V440 series are the ideal companions of the acoustic guitarist. The V300 in pack form is perfect for starting out, while the V440 Historic Series will suit the seasoned guitarist who wants an instrument with more projection and nuance. For the stage, the VE330 electro-acoustic is the most versatile choice.

For bass

The bassist will find in the VJ74 an instrument with an authentic, powerful sound. The Wilkinson pickups deliver a punchy groove that cuts through the mix, and the comfortable neck allows fatigue-free playability over long sessions. The 25th Anniversary Silver Burst finish also makes it a visual object of desire.

Why buy short supply chain at Green Musicians?

Green Musicians has chosen the short supply chain to offer you new quality instruments at prices that defy all competition. By removing unnecessary intermediaries, we can offer you the best of the Vintage brand at an unbeatable price. The Vintage guitars available on our site come directly from the brand, which guarantees their authenticity, freshness and quality.

Buying short supply chain is also a gesture for the environment. By reducing the number of handling and transport operations, we limit our carbon footprint while preserving the quality of our instruments. And because we believe in sustainability, we also offer refurbished and second-hand products, to give a second life to instruments that deserve it.

Finally, buying at Green Musicians means benefiting from the expertise of a passionate team. We test and check every instrument before shipping, and our customer service is always available to advise you. Whether you buy a new, refurbished, second-hand or short supply chain guitar, you are assured of a quality instrument, ready to play.

FAQ: everything you need to know about Vintage guitars

Is Vintage a good brand for beginners?

Yes, Vintage is one of the best brands for starting the guitar. The instruments are designed by Trevor Wilkinson, which guarantees playability and sound far superior to what is usually found in this price range. What's more, the complete packs (guitar + amp + accessories) let you start without breaking the bank, with gear that will last for years.

What is the difference between the V100 and the V6?

The V100 is inspired by Les Paul-style solid-body guitars: mahogany body, glued-in neck, humbucker pickups, thick and powerful sound. The V6 is inspired by Stratocaster-style sculpted-body guitars: alder body, bolt-on neck, three single-coils, crystal-clear and versatile sound. The choice depends on your musical style and sonic preferences.

Are Wilkinson pickups good quality?

Yes, Wilkinson pickups are renowned worldwide for their quality. Trevor Wilkinson designed these pickups to deliver an authentic sound, faithful to classic tones, with exceptional dynamics and clarity. They can be found on many high-end guitars, and Vintage has the exclusive right to fit them as standard on its instruments, which largely explains the brand's value for money.

Where are Vintage guitars made?

Vintage guitars are designed in the United Kingdom by Trevor Wilkinson and his team, then manufactured in Asia in factories selected for their know-how. This combination allows you to benefit from British design expertise while controlling production costs. Quality control is strict, and every instrument is checked before it goes on sale.

Can you use a V100 for metal?

Yes, the V100 is perfectly capable of tackling metal. Its Wilkinson humbuckers offer high output that suits extreme distortion well, and the mahogany body delivers a thick, defined sound even with lots of gain. For modern metal, you could consider changing the pickups for higher-output models, but as it stands, the V100 holds its own perfectly.

Which Vintage guitar for the stage?

For the stage, several options are available to you. The VE330BK electro-acoustic is ideal if you play acoustic live. The V6 is perfect for rock and pop thanks to its versatility and stable vibrato. The V100 will suit rock and saturated blues. And the VSA500 will do wonders for jazz and blues performances. All these guitars are reliable, stable and easy to set up, which is essential on stage.

Expert tips for choosing your Vintage guitar well

Here are some practical tips to make the right choice when buying your Vintage guitar:

• Define your style: rock, blues, jazz, folk, funk — every style has its ideal guitar. Identify your musical references before choosing.
• Test several models: if possible, try several V100s or V6s to feel the differences in neck profile and weight.
• Check the setup: a well-set-up guitar makes all the difference. At Green Musicians, every instrument is checked before shipping.
• Think long term: a good student guitar can become an excellent stage guitar with a few adjustments and a pickup change.
• Don't neglect the amp: a good amp reveals the potential of a good guitar. Vintage packs often include an amp suited to the style of the guitar.
• Consider the electro-acoustic: if you hesitate between acoustic and electric, a VE330 gives you the best of both worlds.

Vintage against other guitar brands

Vintage occupies a unique segment: that of professional-quality guitars at affordable prices. To understand its place in the guitar landscape, it is useful to compare it with other iconic brands.

Gibson guitars are the absolute reference in high-end electric guitars, but their price puts them out of reach of many musicians. Vintage takes inspiration from Gibson designs with the V100, while offering a far more accessible price. It's an opportunity to enjoy the sound and look of a legendary guitar without breaking the bank.

Similarly, Epiphone offers guitars inspired by Gibson models at intermediate prices. Vintage positions itself in an even more accessible price range, while offering exclusive Wilkinson components that make the difference in terms of playability and sound. Vintage's value for money is often cited as one of the best on the market.

For those looking for a European alternative, the Swedish brand Hagstrom offers guitars with a unique design and distinctive sound. Hagstrom positions itself slightly above Vintage in terms of price, but offers unique features such as the H-Expander neck. Vintage and Hagstrom meet different needs: Vintage for unbeatable value for money, Hagstrom for design originality.

In the end, Vintage stands out for its ability to offer instruments that sound right, play well and last, without requiring a considerable investment. It's the brand for those who want to make music seriously without breaking the bank, and that's exactly what Green Musicians supports by offering it in short supply chain.