Duesenberg Starplayer TV CHG
The Duesenberg Starplayer TV CHG delivers premium build quality, versatile tone, and distinct style, making it a top-tier semi-hollow option.
★★★★★ 4.5/5 · 2 buyer reviews · 5 min read · updated 2026-10-06 · Tested by Cal Whitaker
Duesenberg Starplayer TV CHG: Construction and Design
The Duesenberg Starplayer TV CHG is a semi-hollow electric guitar with a build that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern features. The body and top are crafted from laminated curly maple, with an arched laminated spruce top reinforcing the guitar's visual detail and tonal profile. A sustain center block runs through the body, a structural choice that limits feedback and focuses sustain, making the instrument viable for higher-gain or stage volumes compared to fully hollow guitars.
The model comes in a Catalina Harbor Green finish, complemented by nickel-plated hardware for a contrast that feels tailored yet classic. Physically, the instrument measures 46 by 34 by 4.5 centimeters. The neck is made from maple and features a rosewood fingerboard, giving a combination that balances snap and warmth for both clean and overdriven tones.
Neck Profile and Playability
This guitar features a 647 mm scale length, providing a feel familiar to players of large-body European designs and many popular American models. The nut width is 42 millimeters, a detail that straddles the line between classic and modern comfort, while a fingerboard radius of 305 millimeters caters to those who seek low action and easy bending across the 22 jumbo frets. The dual-action truss rod allows for precise neck adjustments, essential for long-term stability and setup customization.
Electronics and Sonic Versatility
A significant feature of the Starplayer TV CHG is its pickup combination. In the neck position, the guitar uses the Duesenberg DP90 Domino single coil, designed to deliver clear highs and articulate midrange with a distinct attack. Positioned at the bridge is the Duesenberg Grand Vintage humbucker, providing increased output and fullness with minimized noise, suitable for anything from jazz inflections to classic rock drive.
The controls are streamlined: a master volume and master tone knob manage the overall output and shaping, with a three-way selector switch for rapid changes between neck, bridge, or both pickups together. This simplicity means less time searching for tones and more time focused on precision adjustments.
Hardware and Stability
Duesenberg outfits this model with its Diamond Deluxe tremolo system, a vibrato unit engineered for tuning stability and a fluid feel. The tremolo is paired with Duesenberg's Z-Tuner machine heads, which offer a unique mechanism for fast string change and reliable tuning under performance or intensive use. The hardware is all nickel-plated, providing both resilience and a touch of luxury.
Practical Details and Value
The guitar is shipped as a single unit and includes a custom-fitted Duesenberg case. There is no gig bag provided. The included case is a welcome addition at this price point, securing the instrument for both storage and transportation. Priced at 2,490, the Starplayer TV CHG sits firmly in the professional segment, competing with various premium semi-hollow and hybrid guitars globally.
- Body construction: Laminated curly maple back and sides, laminated spruce arched top, semi-hollow with sustain block
- Neck and fretboard: Maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, 22 jumbo frets, 647 mm scale, 305 mm radius, 42 mm nut width
- Pickups and electronics: Duesenberg DP90 Domino single coil (neck), Grand Vintage humbucker (bridge), master volume, master tone, three-way switch
- Hardware: Duesenberg Diamond Deluxe tremolo, Z-Tuner machine heads, nickel hardware
- Color and finish: Catalina Harbor Green, nickel detailing
- Accessories: Duesenberg case included, no gig bag
Conclusion: Professional Semi-Hollow for Demanding Players
The Duesenberg Starplayer TV CHG focuses on delivering a semi-hollow electric guitar that bridges the gap between expressive sound, advanced hardware, and visual appeal. The technical specifications point to a model built for stability, tuning reliability, and tonal versatility, qualities that working musicians and studio players prioritize. The use of select woods, high-end hardware, and distinct pickup configuration ensures the Starplayer TV CHG stands out as a fully featured instrument for demanding contexts.
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
- Impeccable construction quality with premium materials such as flamed maple body, laminated spruce top, and maple neck
- Equipped with high-end hardware including the Duesenberg Diamond Deluxe tremolo and Z-Tuner machine heads
- Versatile pickup configuration featuring a custom single coil at the neck and vintage-style humbucker at the bridge
What bugged me
- High price point, which may not be accessible for all players
- Semi-hollow body might not appeal to those seeking a full hollow or solid body tone
Is it the right one for you?
Good pick if
Ideal for professional musicians, collectors, and performers seeking a visually unique semi-hollow guitar with premium features and a broad tonal palette. Suits players needing reliable tuning stability and expressive tremolo work.Look elsewhere if
Not for those on a tight budget, absolute beginners, or players who prefer the feel and tone of solid-body or fully hollow guitars. Those uninterested in a vintage-inspired aesthetic may also look elsewhere.Suggested level: Professional
Specifications
- Hollowbody guitar
- No
- Semi hollowbody guitar
- Yes
- Color
- Green
- Body
- Maple
- Top
- Maple
- Neck
- Maple
- Fretboard
- Rosewood
- Frets
- 22
- Scale
- 647 mm
- Pickups
- SH
- Tremolo
- Yes
- Including case
- Yes
- Incl. bag
- No
Up close
Watch and listen
Questions players ask
Is a hard case included with the guitar?
Yes, a Duesenberg case comes included with the Starplayer TV CHG.
What types of music is this guitar suitable for?
Its semi-hollow design and versatile pickups make it well-suited for rock, jazz, soul, blues, and pop.
Does it come with any accessories besides the case?
No other accessories are included besides the case.
What tremolo system is used on this model?
It features the proprietary Duesenberg Diamond Deluxe tremolo for smooth, stable pitch modulation.
How does the pickup configuration affect the sound?
The DP90 Domino single coil in the neck and Grand Vintage humbucker in the bridge offer a wide range from crisp cleans to full-bodied crunch.
The last word from the bench
This model stands out for its meticulous construction, combining a laminated spruce top with flamed maple for a resonant and visually striking instrument. With its custom pickup set and advanced hardware, it covers a broad tonal spectrum suitable for discerning musicians. The high price reflects its boutique quality and professional appointments. Ideal for those seeking a reliable, stylish, and feature-rich semi-hollow guitar.
Hanging next to it
Before you decide
Duesenberg Starplayer TV CHG
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