Danelectro 59 Dano 12 BK

Danelectro 59 Dano 12 BK review

The Danelectro 59 Dano 12 BK is an electric 12-string for players drawn to bright, chiming sounds and the distinctive look of Danelectro's vintage-inspired Dano design. Its appeal is easy to place: this is a relatively affordable route to the layered jangle associated with 1960s pop, folk rock, and psychedelic guitar. Player reports describe a lively, ringing sound, especially through a clean amplifier, with enough character to remain interesting when used with effects or distortion.

The model is based on Danelectro's double-cutaway 12-string design. This version has a glossy black finish and chrome hardware. It has been available since December 2014 and is listed at $599. The supplied specifications describe a body frame and center block made from poplar, with Masonite top and back. One owner was impressed by the smooth finish and rounded edges, which looked precise and clean in person. The instrument's light weight is another practical advantage for longer rehearsals or sets.

Construction and setup

The maple neck has a 44.6 mm nut width and a 635 mm scale. The fingerboard material is inconsistent across the supplied product information: one specification lists maple, while the detailed construction notes list Pau Ferro. Check with the seller before buying if the fingerboard wood matters to you. The guitar has 21 frets and a double-action truss rod. The package includes two hex keys, but owners report that it does not include a setup guide or detailed specifications for string gauges and action. The supplied guitar does not include a case or gig bag. A compatible case is listed separately under item number 177636.

Several players found the factory setup playable straight out of the box, with comfortable action and smoothly finished fret ends. One reported a slight buzz on some strings around the first two frets, a problem that may call for a setup adjustment rather than a fundamental repair. As with any 12-string, tuning and setup deserve attention: there are more strings to balance, and small changes can affect feel and intonation. One owner preferred tuning down a whole step and found that the guitar held tuning well.

The fixed bridge has individual adjustable saddles, allowing adjustment for each string. That is a useful feature on a 12-string, where accurate intonation can be more involved than on a six-string. The elongated headstock accommodates 12 sealed tuning machines. Owners have praised the tuning stability, though the amount of time required to tune a 12-string is part of the experience, not a fault specific to this model.

Pickups and sound

Two lipstick-style single-coil pickups give the 59 Dano 12 BK its bright, clear character. Players describe the result as jangly and full, with the paired strings adding the shimmer expected from an electric 12-string. Arpeggios bring out the sound especially well, but the guitar can also handle melodic lines and chord work. Its natural territory is classic pop and folk rock, although reports from rehearsal spaces also mention fuzz, psychedelic effects, and heavier rock settings.

The controls consist of a separate volume knob and tone knob. Unlike a setup with independent volume and tone controls for each pickup, this arrangement does not let you set each pickup's level separately when both are selected. The controls have been described as smooth, with a gradual response across their range. Some players also report that the middle pickup setting gives a noticeable volume lift. That behavior may appeal to players looking for a stronger combined sound, but it is worth testing with your own amplifier.

What to consider before buying

The neck's comfortable profile and relatively low action help make the extra strings manageable. Players who already know six-string guitar may need time to adjust to fretting paired strings, but owners generally describe the learning curve as modest. The wider neck can feel comfortable under the hand, though individual preference matters. The instrument's glossy finish is also a point of taste. One owner preferred it to the matte black version sold elsewhere at the time, while the overall Dano silhouette will not suit every player.

There are a couple of practical details to check. One owner found the strap-button position awkward and recommended strap locks to reduce the chance of the strap slipping off. A wide strap end may also be difficult to fit comfortably in the available space. The white body binding is decorative, and its long-term durability is not established in the reports provided. These are manageable concerns, but they are worth considering if the guitar will see frequent stage use.

Verdict

The Danelectro 59 Dano 12 BK is a compelling choice for guitarists who want a distinctive electric 12-string without spending several thousand dollars. Its bright, chiming voice, adjustable bridge, light feel, and smooth glossy finish make it well suited to jangly pop parts and more experimental playing. Reports point to strong value and generally comfortable playability, while also noting that setup may need attention and some hardware details call for care. It will not replace a high-end 12-string for every player, but it offers a characterful, usable instrument at a much lower price.