Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK
The Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK delivers a distinctive, bright lipstick-pickup sound in a notably lightweight, retro design. Its upper-fret access and a small number of reported setup or control issues are worth considering before buying.
★★★★★ 4.6/5 · 15 buyer reviews · 6 min read · updated 2026-10-07 · Tested by Cal Whitaker
Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK review
The Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK is a modern remake of a cult double-cutaway guitar, built around a distinctive look and a sound that stands apart from more familiar electric guitar designs. Its black finish, lightweight construction, and pair of New Old Stock lipstick single-coil pickups give it a clear identity. At a listed price of 569, it offers a different set of strengths from a conventional workhorse guitar, with some practical compromises worth considering.
The body uses a poplar frame and center block, with Masonite top and back. A maple neck carries a Pau Ferro fingerboard and 21 frets. The 635 mm scale is about 25 inches. There is a double-action truss rod, and the bridge is fixed rather than tremolo-equipped. The instrument ships without a case or gig bag. Its design is straightforward, but the bridge update is an important part of this version.
Bridge and playing feel
Earlier versions of the 59 design have been criticized for a bridge that made setup and intonation less convenient. This model uses a fixed bridge with individually adjustable saddles. Player feedback suggests that this change makes the guitar easier to set up while leaving its characteristic sound intact. One owner described the result as a substantial improvement in adjustment without losing the familiar Danelectro tone.
Several players report that the guitar feels light and comfortable, and some received theirs well set up and intonated. That said, a fresh instrument may still benefit from a setup suited to its owner's preferred string gauge and playing style. The supplied strings are D'Addario EXL110, gauged.010 to.046.
Access above the 12th fret is a recurring limitation in the feedback. One player found the upper frets difficult to use, particularly from around the 16th fret upward, making the guitar less suitable for soloing high on the neck. Players whose parts stay mainly in the lower and middle registers may be less affected. Anyone who relies on upper-fret lead playing should try the neck before buying if possible.
Pickup character
Two New Old Stock lipstick single coils provide the core sound. Positive reports describe them as lively, dynamic, and immediately recognizable, with a clear attack that gives chords and open strings plenty of character. Players mention bright, sparkling tones and a sound that can work well with a Vox-style amplifier. One reviewer associated the guitar's voice with Jimmy Page's work, though that is a personal comparison rather than a guarantee of a particular sound.
The same pickup design will not suit every player. A few owners find the lipstick pickups thin or low in output, and they are not as quiet as some other single coils. Feedback also points to a strong fit for rock and roll, while suggesting that players seeking a full, rounded jazz tone may want a different instrument. The appeal here is a particular vintage-flavored voice, not maximum versatility across every style.
Build and ownership considerations
Many owners praise the appearance, finish, and overall value, calling the guitar distinctive and professionally usable. Others report problems that deserve attention. One owner experienced controls that moved together when turning the volume knob, along with a pickup that repeatedly rose too high and interfered with playing beyond the 12th fret. Another reported potentiometers that stopped working properly after about a year. These are individual accounts, not evidence that every instrument will have the same faults, but they make a careful inspection sensible.
Check that the pickup stays securely at its intended height, the controls operate independently, and the guitar holds its tuning during a trial. The feedback on hardware and setup is mostly favorable, but quality experiences are not uniform. The suitable case is listed separately and is not included, so factor that into the total cost if you need protection for transport or storage.
Verdict
The Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK makes sense for players who want a light guitar with a distinctive appearance and a focused, bright pickup voice. Its adjustable fixed bridge addresses a known setup concern, and many owners praise its playability and character. The upper-fret access, leaner pickup sound, and occasional reports of control or pickup issues are the main cautions. At 569, it is a compelling option for someone specifically drawn to the Danelectro sound, provided they inspect the instrument and are comfortable with its limitations.
Shipping and duties
The retailer ships from its warehouse in Germany. Prices are shown in US dollars and do not include import duties. Orders under roughly $800 usually clear US customs without duty; above that, a duty of a few percent may be collected on delivery. 30-day money-back and a 3-year warranty apply.
Scores by area
Where it shines, where it stumbles
What convinced me
- Distinctive lipstick pickup tone with strong character and appealing dynamics.
- Lightweight body and retro double-cut design.
- Adjustable-saddle fixed bridge improves setup and intonation options.
- Many owners describe it as easy to play and good value for its price.
What bugged me
- Some players report limited access to the upper frets.
- A few reviews describe thin-sounding pickups or problems with the controls and pickup height.
- No case or gig bag is included.
Is it the right one for you?
Good pick if
A good fit for players seeking a lightweight guitar with a distinctive vintage voice and retro styling. Especially appealing to rock and rock and roll players who want a different color in their setup.Look elsewhere if
Less suitable for players who need easy access to the highest frets for lead work. Consider another option if you need a conventional pickup sound or want a case included.Suggested level: Intermediate
Specifications
- Color
- Black
- Body
- Poplar
- Top
- Masonite
- Neck
- Maple
- Fretboard
- Pau Ferro
- Frets
- 21
- Scale
- 635 mm
- Pickup system
- SS
- Tremolo
- No
- Including case
- No
- Incl. gigbag
- No
- Design
- Double Cut
What other players say
Customer feedback is mostly favorable, especially about the guitar's distinctive tone, light weight, appearance, and value. Several owners find it enjoyable to play and appreciate the adjustable bridge. Critical reports mention limited access to higher frets, pickups that can sound thin, and occasional concerns with controls, pickup height, or workmanship.
Hands down one the best guitars I have bought, very lightweight, great sound, pickups are to delicious!
the guitar plays very well, sounds great and looks cool. definitely worth it!
Nothing sounds like a Dano.
Up close
Watch and listen
Before you decide
Questions players ask
What kind of sound does the 59M NOS+ produce?
Its two lipstick single-coil pickups are commonly described as bright and distinctive, with a vintage character. Some reviewers find them thin or weak, so the sound may not suit every playing style.
Is this guitar suitable for rock?
Yes. Reviews specifically praise it for rock and rock and roll, and some mention using its sound for Jimmy Page-style parts. Its particular tone may be less suitable if you want a conventional sound.
Is it comfortable to play?
Owners often praise its low weight and comfortable feel. One reviewer reports that playing above the 15th fret is difficult, which matters if you regularly play high-register solos.
Does the bridge allow intonation adjustment?
Yes. The fixed bridge has individually adjustable saddles, and a reviewer says the updated bridge makes the guitar easier to set up without changing its characteristic sound.
Are a case and gig bag included?
No. Neither is included, so you will need to purchase suitable protection separately.
The last word from the bench
This is a characterful guitar for players who want a sound and look that stand apart from more familiar designs. Owners often praise its tone, light weight, playability, and value, while some report limited access above the 15th fret or hardware and control concerns. The adjustable-saddle bridge is a useful improvement over simpler versions of the design. Try one in person if upper-fret lead playing or consistent production setup is a priority.
Hanging next to it
Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK
Today's price and delivery time are shown at the retailer.
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