1997 Parker Fly Deluxe

Pickups: Stock DiMarzio, Stock Fishman Piezo

Neck: Basswood

Body: Poplar

Nut Material: Synthetic (Graphtech?)

Colour: Black

Country of Origin: USA

Weight: 2.43 kg / 5.36 lbs

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I got this guitar new, as a present when I was younger. It played great then but it did have its issues. Specifically, as every Parker player likely knows, the frets are a nightmare. 

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They are glued (yes, you read that right) to the synthetic fretboard and are tang-less. there is a very tiny groove to ensure that the fret sits at the right position, but they are completely tang-less.

 

The frets themselves are stainless steel and they should last a lot longer than normal frets. And, so far they have - the condition of these frets are almost as good as new. However, there will be a day when they will need to be replaced and that will be a very difficult problem to solve I think. I would either have to source some NOS Parker frets or get some luthier to try and cut the tangs off some stainless steel frets. Until that day comes I prefer not to think about it...

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Other than that the guitar itself is a dream. The tremolo system is designed by Parker and works well. The balance is great and the resonance on it is incredible. The fretboard is a little wide and that can take some getting used to if you're a Les Paul player primarily but that's not really an issue. 

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I love the DiMarzios in there and even if I wanted to change them I think they have some proprietary mounting system, so it wouldn't be a drop in change (don't quote me on that). I don't have any plans on changing it though, I think those pickups are perfect for that guitar. 

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It's a great guitar and definitely one that I will keep with me till the end. For those looking to pick up "vintage" Parkers, my advice would be to consider all the downsides because they are not trivial. If you're ok with them then go ahead and get one and I'm sure you will love the guitar (till the frets fall off).

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Upgrades to be done:

None

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Upgrades done:

None