If Italia’s goal was to have us at “hello,” the Maranello Speedster
would be halfway there on looks alone. Incorporating cues from
both classic designs and oft-ignored pawnshop prizes, the
Speedster comes across as inventive and fresh. Its single
humbucker (a second is optional) provides a vintage, throaty
growl worthy of its sport striping, and discerning pickers will
also appreciate modern enhancements to playability.
Setup, fit and fi nish were excellent out of the box, the
Grover machines tuned smoothly to pitch, and the set
neck ensured sustain on demand. Don’t hate the
Speedster just because it’s beautiful; once tuned up and
plugged in, it’s a headturner for all the right reasons.
$749 italiaguitars.com