Guild Pilot Fretless Reviews

On 2003-09-12, golem rated this Guild Pilot Fretless a 5...(5619)


Purchase: I tripped over it. It was in its opened hard case on the floor [at Daddys Junky] where it was left by a customer who was upset that his low-ball offer was refused. I asked about price, and for $230 [!!!!!] I bought it in a hurry before the previous almost-owner could come to his senses and return for it. NO REGRETS !
Pros: It's got EMG PJs, Grover tuners, Schaller bridge with adjustable spacing, dark rose wood or maybe ebony neck, thin and easy to play, unknown body wood [opaque finish] but very light on the shoulder and no neck dive. Sound ? Big dark and mellow. Sounds very much like my '82 GL 2000e fretless. I've played them back to back and it's hard to choose between them.
Cons: It has an extremely offset body shape [see Dearmond pilot, a copy] like a spaced out jazz body. It's not ugly, but for various practical reasons I like a symetrical shape to the butt end of a bass.
Quality: Much was described above. Other details are: bolt-on neck, VVT 3-knob controls, 4-in-line [but fairly compact] peg head, and it's USA built [mid 80's I think]. The bridge casting has a slight patina and mild pitting after 20yrs [+/-]. The jack and pots appear original and work perfectly on a bass with obvious signs of use.

Review Summary: Very lightweight but with the sound of my 10 pound GnL, and for less than 1/2 the sheckels ? We have a clear winner here. I like it so well that I have located its fretted sister. The pair will not be too heavey a load in my double gig bag.

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