Produced sometime in the early 1970's, this instrument was produced by the famous Matsumoku of Japan. The guitar factory made many fine instruments for other brands, and has garnered a strong reputation, especially for those seeking a high quality on a budget. This is one such guitar, and something the factory was not particularly known for. A spruce top with maple back and sides, it has been said this guitar is of laminate construction. This is notable, because this guitar does not look, nor sound like it is laminate. Alas, this is a great sounding vintage dreadnaught for the price point. The Spruce top is in great condition, with only a hair of belly present. Cosmetically its clean with some simple surface wear, but is free of cracks (maybe the best indicator of its laminate construction). Internally it is X braced, with a thin, wide maple bridge plate. The sound is bright, as one would expect with a maple guitar, but it has depth, volume and punch which exceeds expectation. The back and sides sport a nice flame. The original rosewood bridge is pinned, and well seated - with a tall saddle that likely has not been lowered (about 8/64" visible above the slot). The neck is constructed out of three pieces of Maple, fitted with a bound rosewood fingerboard with block MOP inlay (see what I mean when I say this guitar is a great value?). The original frets are reminiscent of Gibson fretless wonder style, with a wider profile and a flatter top. They guitar plays great, the neck straight retaining a proper angle. The action measuring an industry standard 6/64" in height on the sixth string at the twelfth fret, and 5/64" on the first. Standard 25.5" scale length, it has a slightly wider 1.75" nut width, the neck profile itself with a very very soft V feel. Slight wear is present in the profile, but nothing too notable alas a small nick toward the third position. Original tuners function, but feel a little heavy - one might consider upgrading these first. Includes basic chipboard case!