Backbeat Books is proud to present three new titles from vintage-instrument authorities George Gruhn and Walter Carter!

Over the years the <em>Gruhn’s Guide to Vintage Guitars</em> has come to be the bible for collectors, retailers, and guitar enthusiasts alike. Originally published in 1990 and revised in 1999 this updated and expanded third edition includes a wealth of key info not included in the previous editions. The book is the most extensive and detailed list of specifications ever published on guitars and is the last word with regard to identifying, dating, and establishing an instrument’s authenticity. The book’s coverage extends to all major collectable brands including but certainly not limited to Gibson, Fender, Martin, Rickenbacker, Mosrite, and Dobro as well as vintage and highly sought after amplifiers.

And for the first time ever Backbeat is pleased to offer a pocket-sized field guide edition packed with the same info as the full-sized with detailed specs on every model’s frets, wood type, body shape and size, pickups, serial numbers, date of manufacture, and other significant features.

Also due out from Backbeat is a revised and expanded edition of Gruhn and Carter’s <em>Electric Guitars and Bases: A Photographic History</em>. Both Gruhn and Carter have lived and worked inside the guitar universe for many years and this lavishly illustrated volume offers a unique insider’s look into the rich history of countless rare and iconic makes and models. Gruhn and Carter trace the evolution of the instrument from a couple of copper wire wrapped magnets nailed onto a wooden plank to the beautiful sunbursts, goldtops, Korinas, and hollowbodys beloved by players and collectors alike.