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Rare Electric Prima Balalaika with Pickups

$ 132

Availability: 100 in stock
  • Instrument: Balalaika
  • Number of Strings: 3
  • Country/Region of Manufacture: Russian Federation
  • All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
  • Condition: Used
  • Brand: Unbranded
  • Type: Prima Balalaika

    Description

    A rare, fun, and quirky electric prima balalaika I am selling after minimizing my collection of instruments. With tele-style pickups and steel strings this instrument can easily be plugged into an electric amplifier. Normally prima balalaikas are tuned to E-E-A, but I have replaced the left-most string and it is now tuned to C-E-A (A minor) to easily play triads.
    The instrument is used and has a couple flaws: Firstly the volume knob acts like it is always turned to 10 (so long as it's not turned to 1, then it outputs no sound). Secondly the pin at the bottom face of the instrument securing the highest string nearly broke off so it looks bent (it still stays in place). Thirdly the action on the neckboard is low, with very low and thin frets, so you have to press down hard to sound notes, but the action is adjustable if you find a lower bridge.
    There are also a couple thin scratches on the back (pictured). Overall this is a cool instrument when you get used to playing with it, it is probably harder to play than an acoustic balalaika. Strap is included.