In my previous post I suggested that the stabilizer bar was probably more for aesthetics than any genuine need for extra stability in the neck. And of course, being a Fernandes this guitar is equipped with a Sustainer in the neck pickup position. In my own opinion, the Fernandes Sustainer is no replacement for an EBow - even if the Sustainer does affect ALL the strings simultaneously (for me, that's part of its downfall) - but perhaps the Sustainer works even better in conjunction with that stabilizer bar. It's interesting to see the rear view photos of the guitar which show that the stabilizer has been mounted with 4 bolts just as if it is a secondary neck. It then seems to be attached to the rear of the headstock by having the machine heads directly mounted through it and into the headstock proper.
This is a guitar that strangely appeals to me. I'd love to play something like this on stage, despite the Floyd Rose trem which ordinarily I find such a pain. I don't think, however, I'd be up for the big hair, make-up and flamboyant costumes of the visual kei movement; with my 50th birthday rapidly approaching I feel I'm getting a bit old for that kind of thing.
Currently listed on eBay with a starting price of $1,580 (item located in Japan).
G L Wilson
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