If you've not realized this by now, 2024 saw the first non-signature Premium model crossing the $2K mark. The S1070PB you see above is listing for $2,299. The argument here would be, we're paying for the quality, not the country of manufacturer. Then again, spending that much money for something that is not from the manufacturer's top tier, is disturbing.
This LTD you see above is the EC-401. The 200 & 400 Series represent the manufacturer's most affordable models in the line up. However, the EC-401 is now $1,480. I used to own an H-401 which was $800+ & that's how much prices have escalated in like a decade or so.
I have always respected Cort & the instruments the manufacturer has to offer. We all know who Cort really is, right? Cort makes guitars for other brand names like Ibanez & PRS (SE) among others because of its impeccable production standards. The Cort range of instruments are absolute value for money but prices are starting to be disagreeable. The X700 you see here is now listing for $1,379 (used to be $1,199). So this episode of Price Watch is highlighting the fact that what used to be a good deal is now slowly turning into a nightmare. We now need to save more for mediocre instruments. I sincerely hope names like Cort, Bacchus & Aria, among others, won't lose focus & continue to give the starters / newbies among us something worthy for the limited budget we are working with. Intimidating times ahead when it comes to instrument prices.
Pics: Ibanez / Cort / ESP
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