1989 Carvin DC125

Details

I added this to the collection with a lucky break finding it on Guitar Center’s used listings. I’ve wanted a Carvin for a long time, and weighed the idea of having one made for years on and off. In high school, I loved the Bangles and wanted to have both a Rickenbacker 350 and a Carvin DC125 - the two guitars that band used with frequency in their heyday.

The most unique feature within the scope of Carvins is the headstock - this has the Jackson-style shape which was only used for two years, 1988-1989. Previous DC125’s usually had the 3x3 “V” or classic shape headstocks, and later ones used different inline shapes. Another change notable on this model, being from ‘89, is the softened bevels in the body shape as well as the strap button on the upper horn being placed at the tip. 1988 and earlier models had this button mounted on the underside of the horn.

Stock equipment includes a gold Floyd Rose tremolo with screw-in arm as well as gold Carvin brand tuners. There is also a factory coil tap 3-way mini switch, which adds some versatility to this single-pickup guitar. The default pickup at this time was the M22, but on DC125 models like this one they received the M22SD as standard (other models could be optioned with the “SD” version). This pickup surprised me - it is thick and full with an Alnico V magnet and a fairly hot wind.

The guitar is extremely heavy, with a maple neck through body with maple wings. The fretboard is ebony and is in great shape considering the age. Something interesting I noticed from playing this is that the body carries a lot of its weight down below the bridge, which makes the neck feel light and maneuverable while standing, adding to the fun factor of playing it.

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