Here's a new section that will periodically feature tips from Steve on vintage items that he feels are attractive purchases for players and collectors alike.

12/29: A jazz player's delight: Round badge Gretsch in less-than-perfect condition. As you may know, excellent original jazz size round badge Gretsch sets (12/14/20) are still expensive even in this slow economy. But, there's real value in player's grade kits in these sizes. A few extra holes or maybe some issues with the wrap will keep these sets from bringing premium prices, but they still play incredibly and you get That Gretsch Gretsch Sound  for much less than if it were a collector's item. You'll pay probably half of what you'd pay for a collector grade set, so you can still have the sound of your dreams and not have to rob the local bank to get it! Don't overlook these!