Duesenberg Starplayer TV Deluxe Black

Duesenberg Starplayer TV Deluxe Black review

The Duesenberg Starplayer TV Deluxe Black is a semi-hollow electric guitar with an archtop profile, two f-holes, and a central sustain block. Its black finish and restrained styling give it a dressy, vintage-influenced look, while the construction and hardware are aimed at regular playing rather than display. The model has been available since June 2015. The listed price is 2759, and a fitted Duesenberg case is included.

The body measures 46 by 34 by 4.5 cm. Its archtop is made from spruce plywood, with flamed maple sides and back. The underside is flat and closed, and the sustain block runs through the semi-hollow body. That combination retains the look and airier character associated with a semi-hollow guitar while giving the bridge and strings a solid central foundation. The supplied player comments repeatedly praise the finish and detail work, describing the instrument as carefully made and visually striking.

Neck and playing feel

The maple neck has a rosewood fingerboard made from Dalbergia latifolia, 22 jumbo frets, and a 12-inch fingerboard radius. Scale length is 647 mm, and the nut measures 42 mm wide. A double-action truss rod allows adjustment in either direction. One player found the neck especially comfortable, while another described the guitar as well balanced in weight and lighter than a Gibson Les Paul. Those are personal impressions, but they point to a consistent theme in the feedback: the instrument feels comfortable over a playing session.

The scale is longer than some players may be used to. One reviewer changed to a 9, 46 string set to make bends feel easier. That is a preference, not a requirement, and string choice will depend on playing style and tuning. Players who favor a lighter bending feel may want to experiment with gauges rather than assume the factory setup is the only suitable option.

Pickups, controls, and tremolo

The pickup set combines a Düsenberg D-Tron with a Düsenberg Grand Vintage humbucker. Controls include a master volume, two Multi-tone controls, and a three-way toggle switch. This setup gives players direct access to different pickup combinations and tonal adjustments without a complicated control layout.

Player feedback describes a broad, responsive sound, with a warm but clear character and a strong clean tone. One owner noted that the guitar could produce a substantial sound without distortion, especially with a more progressive playing approach. Another praised its dynamics and range. These reports suggest a guitar that can cover more than one musical role, though the exact result will depend on the amplifier, settings, and technique.

The Düsenberg Radiator tremolo is included. A reviewer described its operation as excellent, and also singled out the instrument's sustain. The sustain block is a relevant part of that design: it supports the bridge within the semi-hollow construction. The tremolo adds expressive pitch movement while preserving the guitar's clean, polished appearance.

Build quality and ownership notes

Across the supplied comments, build quality is the strongest point of agreement. Players mention clean workmanship, carefully finished details, and a high standard of components. One owner compared the construction favorably with familiar Fender and Gibson instruments, while another called the finish flawless. These are subjective assessments, but the consistency of the praise makes the guitar's fit and finish a clear part of its appeal.

There is one specific cosmetic issue worth noting. A new owner found packaging residue beneath the transparent pickguard and removed the guard to clean it. The reviewer considered this a minor inconvenience rather than a reason to reject the guitar. It is a useful reminder to inspect beneath the pickguard during setup, particularly on a new instrument.

Verdict

The Duesenberg Starplayer TV Deluxe Black combines a spruce archtop, flamed maple body, sustain block, dual humbuckers, and a dedicated tremolo system in a distinctive semi-hollow format. Its 647 mm scale may prompt some players to adjust string gauge for easier bends, but the reported neck comfort and balanced feel are strong points. The supplied feedback also supports its reputation for expressive clean tones, useful dynamics, and meticulous finishing. With a fitted case included, it is a premium choice for players seeking a versatile semi-hollow guitar with a refined, understated appearance.