TOSTAR 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This tostar 39 solid body electric guitar review focuses on the TJM-160M-SB in Sunburst. It is a solid-body instrument built for players seeking reliable tone and stability. The design centers on two defining specifications: a P90 S-S pickup configuration and a Tune-O-Matic bridge. These components work together to shape the instrument's voice. The poplar body and maple neck provide the structural foundation. We examine how these specs translate to playability and sound. This analysis helps you decide if this specific model fits your needs.
What stands out
- P90 S-S pickup configuration with a 3-way switch for versatile tone shaping.
- Tune-O-Matic bridge with a dedicated tailpiece for improved sustain and intonation.
- Poplar body paired with a bolt-on Canadian Maple neck for balanced resonance.
- Purpleheart fingerboard with 22 cupronickel frets and glow-in-the-dark side markers.
- 1:18 ratio closed-back tuners for precise tuning stability.
Who it fits
Good fit for
This guitar suits beginners and intermediate players who want a versatile instrument for blues, rock, and jazz. The P90 pickups offer a blend of single-coil clarity and warmth. The Tune-O-Matic bridge helps maintain tuning during bends. The glow-in-the-dark markers aid navigation on dark stages. It is also a solid choice for those needing a reliable backup instrument for home practice or club performances.
Who should skip it
Players seeking a double-cutaway body style should look elsewhere, as this model features a modern offset design. If you require active electronics or a different pickup configuration, this P90 setup may not meet your needs. The fixed Tune-O-Matic bridge limits the range of vibrato effects available with floating bridges. Those who prefer a glossy finish might find the smoked matte surface less appealing for their aesthetic preferences.
Verdict: The Tostar TJM-160M-SB offers a well-rounded specification set for players valuing tonal versatility and tuning stability. Its combination of P90 pickups and a Tune-O-Matic bridge makes it a practical choice for many genres.
Key specs explained
Body Material: Poplar
Poplar is a high-density tonewood that provides a balanced frequency response and rich resonance. You get a professional weight that supports the instrument's structure without adding excessive mass. This material choice complements the maple neck and purpleheart fingerboard, helping to deliver superior sustain. It is a practical option for players who want a reliable, resonant body for studio or stage use.
Neck Material: Canadian Maple
Canadian maple offers snappiness and clarity in the neck construction. This bolt-on design enhances the overall resonance of the guitar. The material provides a stiff, responsive feel that pairs well with the poplar body. You benefit from a stable neck that maintains its shape over time. This combination is often selected by musicians seeking a clear attack and balanced tone across the fretboard.
Pickup Configuration: P90 S-S
This configuration uses two P90 single-coil pickups. You receive a tone that balances single-coil clarity with humbucker-like warmth. The setup is ideal for blues, rock, and jazz genres. It allows your sound to cut through a mix in both studio and live settings. This versatile pickup arrangement provides a wide range of tones, making it suitable for various musical styles and performance environments.
Number of Frets: 22
The guitar features twenty-two cupronickel frets on the purpleheart fingerboard. This count provides ample range for most playing styles. The cupronickel material ensures exceptional wear resistance and a smooth feel. You can perform effortless slides and bends without excessive friction. The glow-in-the-dark side markers aid navigation on dark stages, which is a practical feature for performing musicians who need clear fret identification.
Size: 39.4 inches
The total length of the instrument is thirty-nine point four inches. This standard solid-body size ensures comfortable handling for most players. The offset body design offers a balanced weight distribution. You can wear the guitar for extended periods without significant fatigue. This dimension is typical for electric guitars, making it easy to find cases and accessories that fit this specific model form factor.
Design and Build Quality
According to the listing, the body is crafted from poplar, a high-density wood chosen for rich resonance and balanced weight. You get a solid-body structure that supports the instrument without excessive mass. The neck is bolt-on Canadian maple, which provides snappiness and clarity. This is paired with a purpleheart fingerboard for a distinct feel. The combination aims to deliver superior sustain and a balanced frequency response across the playing surface.
The instrument measures 39.4 inches in length, with a width of 13 inches and a height of 2.36 inches. These dimensions define the physical footprint you will handle during practice or performance. The finish is a smoked matte with a boutique red tortoise pickguard. This non-glossy surface is described as fingerprint-resistant, which helps maintain a clean look under stage lights or in studio environments. The offset body design offers a modern aesthetic that stands out visually.
Layout features include 22 cupronickel frets for smooth bends and slides. Glow-in-the-dark side markers aid navigation in low light. The tuning stability relies on closed-back tuners with a 1:18 ratio, ensuring accurate pitch retention. A Tune-O-Matic bridge with a dedicated tailpiece supports intonation. These build choices suggest a guitar designed for reliable playability in both home studios and live settings, prioritizing structural integrity and tonal consistency.
Setup and Everyday Use
Setup begins with the included professional maintenance kit. You receive a heavy-duty padded gig bag, a reinforced strap, and an adjustment wrench. The instrument arrives pre-strung with 0.009-0.042 nickel-plated steel strings, allowing you to play immediately. The 1:18 ratio closed tuners provide high-precision gearing for smooth, accurate tuning. This mechanism helps the guitar hold its pitch longer, even during intense performances or frequent bending. The Tune-O-Matic bridge with its dedicated tailpiece is designed to enhance sustain and intonation. This hardware choice supports expressive playing styles and keeps the instrument stable in tune. Daily use is facilitated by the 22 cupronickel frets. These frets offer exceptional wear resistance and a smooth feel for effortless slides. The glow-in-the-dark side markers on the purpleheart fingerboard provide clear navigation on dark stages. This detail is crucial for performing musicians who need to locate notes quickly. The offset matte body with a smoked finish is fingerprint-resistant, maintaining a clean look under stage lights. You can connect the guitar to any standard amplifier using the included instrument cable. The P90 S-S pickup configuration and 3-way switch allow you to balance single-coil clarity with humbucker warmth. This versatility suits blues, rock, and jazz genres. The bolt-on maple neck complements the poplar body, delivering a balanced frequency response. You get a reliable backup instrument or a sophisticated upgrade for apartment practice. The complete accessory set ensures you have the essentials for stage-ready maintenance. This setup supports everything from home studio recording to club performances without requiring additional purchases.
Before You Buy This Guitar
You need a compatible amplifier to hear the full potential of these P90 pickups. Check your existing gear to ensure your cable length and output impedance match this solid-body design. The 0.009-0.042 strings are light, so you may want spare sets for frequent replacement. Keep the cupronickel frets clean with the included polishing cloth to maintain their smooth feel. This guitar fits well as a versatile backup or a primary instrument for blues and rock. It sits alongside other electric guitars in this guide by offering a unique purpleheart fingerboard and matte finish. Ensure your gig bag provides adequate padding for transport. The Tune-O-Matic bridge requires occasional intonation adjustments as strings stretch. Verify that your playing style benefits from the 22-fret access and offset body shape. This model suits players who value tonal clarity and tuning stability over complex electronics.
Check before you buy
- Verify amplifier compatibility with P90 output levels
- Check gig bag padding for transport safety
- Confirm string gauge preference for bending
- Ensure fingerboard cleaning supplies are available
The product at a glance
Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar Sunburst
Best for: beginners seeking a complete setup
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- Canadian Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Purpleheart
- Pickup Configuration
- P90 S-S
- Body Type
- Solid Body
- Number of Frets
- 22
View on Amazon: Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar Sunburst Affiliate link
The Tostar 39" is a solid body electric guitar designed for beginners and intermediate players. It features a poplar body with a Canadian maple neck and a purpleheart fretboard. The instrument uses P90 S-S pickups and a Tune-O-Matic bridge for stable tuning. It includes 22 cupronickel frets and closed-back tuners. The package comes with a gig bag, strap, and accessories.
Pros
- P90 S-S pickup configuration with 3-way switch
- Tune-O-Matic bridge with dedicated tailpiece for stability
- 22 cupronickel frets with glow-in-the-dark side markers
- 1:18 ratio closed-back tuners for precise tuning
- Includes padded gig bag, strap, and maintenance kit
Cons
- Poplar body is less resonant than premium tonewoods
- Bolt-on neck construction may lack sustain of set-neck designs
- Sunburst color option only in current data
Good fit if
- You want a complete package with accessories included
- You prefer the tone of P90 pickups over standard single-coils
- You need a reliable instrument for practice or small gigs
Skip if
- You require a set-neck construction for maximum sustain
- You need a variety of color options beyond sunburst
- You are looking for a high-end boutique instrument
Verdict: Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar offers a complete setup with stable hardware and versatile P90 pickups. It fits beginners seeking a ready-to-play instrument with professional features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar Sunburst |
|---|---|
| Body Material | Poplar |
| Neck Material | Canadian Maple |
| Fretboard Material | Purpleheart |
| Pickup Configuration | P90 S-S |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Target Audience | Beginners |
| Color | Sunburst |
| Dimensions | 39.4 × 13 × 2.36 inches |
| Size | Full |
| Model | TJM-160M-SB |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tostar 39 suitable for beginners?
Yes, this instrument is designed for beginners seeking a complete setup. It features stable hardware and versatile P90 pickups that allow for immediate playability. The package includes essential accessories like a gig bag and strap, making it a ready-to-use option for new players starting their journey.
What are the physical dimensions of this guitar?
The guitar measures 39.4 inches in length, 13 inches in width, and 2.36 inches in height. These dimensions define the TJM-160M-SB model's physical footprint. You can use these measurements to check if the instrument fits your storage space or travel case requirements before purchasing.
What finish does the Tostar 39 come in?
The model is available in a Sunburst finish. This classic aesthetic complements the solid-body construction and poplar wood. The visual design aligns with the professional features included in the package, offering a traditional look that suits various playing styles and personal preferences.
Does this guitar come with a case?
Yes, the package includes a heavy-duty padded gig bag. You also receive a reinforced strap and an adjustment wrench. These accessories ensure you have the necessary tools for transport and basic maintenance, allowing you to protect the instrument and adjust it as needed.
What type of strings are installed on this guitar?
The instrument arrives pre-strung with 0.009-0.042 nickel-plated steel strings. These light-gauge strings allow for immediate playability right out of the box. You can start playing without needing to purchase additional strings initially, though keeping spares is recommended for frequent replacement.
What is the model number for this specific guitar?
The specific model number is TJM-160M-SB. This identifier corresponds to the 39-inch solid body design in the Sunburst color. You can use this code to verify product details or search for replacement parts and accessories that are compatible with this exact configuration.
