Designer Gary Levinson began building guitars in Illinois in 1964. In 1971, he moved to Basel, Switzerland on a scholarship to study geology. The idea and prototypes for the first Blade guitars came about in 1982 and the first guitars were introduced in 1987.
Levinson approaches his guitar building from an analytical standpoint based on his multiple university degrees in applied and natural sciences. As a result, Blade guitars combine traditional designs with quality craftsmanship and modern updated hardware, on-board electronics, and pickup combinations. The resulting instruments have more tonal options than older vintage models, but still maintain the feel that players are familiar with.
Levinson's design headquarters and Custom Shop are located in Allschwil (near Basel), Switzerland. The Custom Shop is the driving force in product development, derived in part from the input received from working musicians.
The on-board Variable Spectrum Control electronics devised by Levinson give the Blade guitar player additional control over the guitar's tone. Trim pots on the VSC (accessed through the back of the guitar) preset tone controls, and were activated through the VSC mini-switch (or push/pull pot) mounted near the volume and tone controls. For more information, visit Blade's website or contact them directly.
Instruments currently produced in England, Switzerland, and/or Japan. Distributed in the U.S. and Canada by MV Pro Audio, LLC in Grants Pass, OR since 2012. Previously distributed in the U.S. and Canada by Wes-Can Music Supplies Ltd. in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada between 2007 and 2012, Close Marketing in Englewood, CO between 2003 and 2007, Lasar Music Corporation, in Brentwood, TN between 1998 and 2003, and by Musician's Friend of Medford, OR until 1998. Distributed worldwide by Levinson Music Products, Ltd. in Allschwil, Switzerland.