James Tyler Studio Elite HD

Condition: near mint.

This Studio Elite HD showcases a Malibu Beach Shmear finish that captures light in ways photos can't convey. The blue shifts and transforms as you move the instrument, creating a visual depth that mirrors its exceptional tonal capabilities.

What elevates Tyler's instruments is their distinct personalities combined with his legendary quality standards. The lightweight alder body paired with a quartersawn maple neck delivers a tonal foundation that feels familiar yet uniquely Tyler. The "fat" profile neck topped with beautiful Indian rosewood provides the ideal platform for the wide/tall frets, making even the most technical playing feel natural and effortless.

Sonically, this guitar covers incredible ground. The JTS5500 pickups in the neck and middle positions deliver clarity and dimension, while the "Secret" bridge pickup adds distinctive character. Engage the midboost, and notes bloom with additional sustain and presence that cuts through any mix perfectly.

The thoughtful hardware choices—gold Hipshot locking tuners, Wilkinson VS100 bridge, and white pearl pickguard—create a cohesive visual statement while ensuring rock-solid performance. At just 7.5 pounds, this Studio Elite HD balances perfectly in any playing position.

After years in this business, I'm still amazed at how Tyler consistently crafts instruments that inspire from the first note. This Studio Elite HD continues that tradition—responsive, expressive, and built with an attention to detail that transforms playing into pure joy.

If you'd like to find out more about this item, just call or e-mail me. It would be my pleasure to talk to you about it.

ABOUT TYLER GUITARS
James Tyler has had a guitar in his hand almost every day since he first picked one up the summer after seventh grade, in 1964. In college, Jim studied Architecture, Design, Music, Photography and for a couple years, Theology. He paid his way through these years of collage doing guitar repair work at local guitar stores, and as a factory trained auto mechanic for Alfa Romeo, Lancia, BMW and Fiat. Later into the 1970’s, he got connected with the guys at Norman’s Rare Guitars in the San Fernando Valley, and became their main repair and restoration guy. Jim’s abilities continued to expand and soon he had enough experience and reputation that he opened his first repair shop in Reseda, CA in 1980. Since then its been a whirlwind of successes, including being chosen to be displayed among the great California guitar companies such as Fender, Rickenbacker, Mosrite and Charvel in the Museum of California's exhibit The Ultimate Guitar Show and building for artists such as Michael Landau, David Williams, Steve Lukather, Michael Anthony, and Dan Huff. James' design shapes and various ground breaking guitar finishes and most recently his line of pickups have virtually transformed the guitar building industry.