Duesenberg Double Cat Guitar: Full Review & Specs

The Duesenberg Double Cat blends classic styling with modern playability — a guitar that turns heads and feels effortless under the fingers. This review breaks down the Double Cat’s key features, specs and UK pricing, compares it to the Starplayer TV and explains why many players choose MusicStreet Guitars when buying one.

What Are the Key Features of the Duesenberg Double Cat Electric Guitar?

The Double Cat stands out for its semi-hollow, chambered maple body, which gives the guitar a bright, open tone and keeps the weight down for long playing sessions. It pairs that body with a Domino P90 and a GrandVintage humbucker, a combination that covers clean, gritty and warm tones — ideal if you need one guitar that does a lot.

The choice of tonewood, like maple on the Double Cat, plays a big role in shaping an electric guitar’s sound.

Tonewood's Impact on Electric Guitar Timbre

Research into how different woods colour an electric guitar’s sound shows measurable changes in spectral balance and output level when various species are used. In short: the wood matters to the ear as well as to the measurements.

On the Audibility of Electric Guitar Tonewood, J Jasiński, 2021

How Does the Semi-Hollow Chambered Maple Body Influence Tone and Playability?

The Double Cat’s semi-hollow, chambered maple body gives it a ringing, resonant voice with a touch more air than a solid-body. That construction helps sustain notes while keeping unwanted feedback under control and makes the guitar noticeably lighter on the shoulder — useful for long gigs or studio days.

Studies into semi-hollow construction back up how body design affects acoustic resonance and overall tonal behaviour.

Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar Construction & Resonance

Semi-hollow bodies — essentially a structure with internal resonance cavities — change the instrument’s acoustic response and how vibrations are transmitted, which in turn alters perceived tone and sustain.

Acoustic performance assessment of composite materials in musical instrument construction, M Chomiak, 2025

What Are the Specifications of the Domino P90 and GrandVintage Humbucker Pickups?

The Domino P90 delivers a bright, punchy character that sings through cleans and cuts nicely when pushed. The GrandVintage humbucker brings a warmer, fuller voice for cleaner jazz lines and thicker overdriven tones. Together they give you a flexible palette — from articulate single-coil style bite to rounded humbucker fullness.

How Does the Duesenberg Double Cat Compare to the Starplayer TV Model?

Both guitars are high-quality, but they suit different tastes. The Double Cat’s semi-hollow maple body leans toward clarity and sparkle, while the Starplayer TV, with a maple top and mahogany back, tends to sound a bit warmer and more focused. It’s a subtle difference, but it matters depending on the tone you’re after.

What Are the Main Differences in Design and Electronics Between Double Cat and Starplayer?

The Double Cat’s chambered maple body emphasises resonance and sustain; the Starplayer TV’s maple-top/mahogany-back construction gives a thicker midrange and a slightly darker character. Electronics differ too: the Double Cat mixes a P90 and a humbucker for versatile voicings, while the Starplayer TV more often ships with two humbuckers for a more traditional semi-hollow sound.

Which Model Suits Different Playing Styles and Genres?

If you play rock, blues or jazz and want a versatile instrument that handles both clean and driven tones, the Double Cat is a strong choice. If you favour classic rock or want a warmer, humbucker-led voice, the Starplayer TV is worth considering. Ultimately the best pick depends on the tones you favour and how you play.

What Is the Current Price Range for the Duesenberg Double Cat in the UK?

Prices in the UK depend on condition and seller. New Double Cats typically sit between £2,200 and £2,600, while used examples usually trade from about £1,700 to £2,200. That range reflects the build quality and finishing you get from Duesenberg.

Where Can You Buy New and Used Duesenberg Double Cat Guitars in the UK?

In the UK you’ll find new and pre-owned Double Cats at specialist retailers and online marketplaces. MusicStreet Guitars is one reliable option, offering a regularly updated selection of both new and used instruments alongside clear condition notes.

How Do Trade-In and Part-Exchange Options Work for Duesenberg Double Cat?

Many shops, including MusicStreet, offer trade-in or part-exchange schemes: you trade your current instrument for credit toward a new purchase. It’s a straightforward way to lower the outlay when upgrading — just get a clear quote and the terms before handing anything over.

Why Choose MusicStreet Guitars for Purchasing a Duesenberg Double Cat?

MusicStreet has built a reputation since 2014 for curated, well-prepared instruments. They specialise in new and pre-owned guitars and make sure each instrument is set up before it leaves the shop, so you receive something that plays well straight away.

What Professional Setup and Warranty Services Does MusicStreet Offer?

MusicStreet’s pre-shipping setup covers action, intonation and pickup height adjustments tailored to general playability. They also back guitars with a one-year warranty, giving buyers peace of mind after purchase.

How Does MusicStreet Ensure Authenticity and Stock Availability?

MusicStreet holds stock on-site rather than drop-shipping, which helps ensure authenticity and lets them inspect each instrument in person. That hands-on approach keeps their listings accurate and reduces surprises for buyers.

What Maintenance and Care Are Recommended for the Duesenberg Double Cat?

Regular care keeps a Double Cat sounding and looking its best. Routine cleaning, timely setup checks and attention to moving parts will protect the guitar’s playability and value over time.

How to Properly Maintain the Diamond Deluxe Tremola and Z-Tuners?

Keep the tremolo clean and lightly lubricate pivot and contact points to prevent wear and keep movement smooth. Check the Z-tuners’ stability regularly and make small adjustments as needed to maintain reliable tuning.

What Are Best Practices for Preserving the Maple Body and Maple Top Finish?

Wipe the maple surfaces with a soft, dry cloth after playing to remove sweat and dust. Avoid extremes of temperature and humidity, and use a hard case for transport. Regular visual checks for finish wear and hardware corrosion will help you spot issues early.

The table above gives a quick snapshot of typical UK asking prices across these Duesenberg models — useful for budgeting whether you’re buying new or hunting for a well-kept used example.

Duesenberg instruments like the Double Cat combine thoughtful construction, playable setups and signature looks, making them appealing to a wide range of players. If you’re after a semi-hollow that covers clean, gritty and warm tones, the Double Cat is a compelling pick — and MusicStreet Guitars can be a good place to find one with a proper setup and clear condition notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history behind Duesenberg guitars?

Duesenberg began in Germany in 1986 with a goal of marrying traditional craftsmanship to modern production techniques. The brand quickly earned a following for its distinctive designs and attention to detail and today is well regarded among professional and hobbyist players alike.

What types of music are best suited for the Duesenberg Double Cat?

The Double Cat is very adaptable — it works well for rock, blues and jazz thanks to its mix of P90 bite and humbucker warmth. Whether you need chiming cleans, gritty overdrive or fuller, rounder tones, it covers a lot of ground.

Are there any specific accessories recommended for the Duesenberg Double Cat?

We recommend a sturdy strap for comfort, a hard case for safe transport and a reliable tuner as essentials. Adding a pedalboard with effects that match your style will also help you get the most from the Double Cat’s tonal range.

How does the Duesenberg Double Cat perform in live settings?

The Double Cat projects well and cuts through a band mix thanks to its semi-hollow character and pickup choices. It handles effects and amps cleanly and is light enough to be comfortable for long sets.

What are the common issues to watch for with the Duesenberg Double Cat?

Like any guitar, watch tuning stability (especially with tremolo use), keep an eye on electronics and check fret wear and neck relief regularly. Routine maintenance will minimise most problems.

Can the Duesenberg Double Cat be customised or modified?

Yes — pickups, hardware and setup can be changed to suit personal taste. We recommend consulting a qualified guitar tech to preserve the instrument’s integrity and value when making modifications.

Conclusion

The Duesenberg Double Cat is a thoughtfully made semi-hollow that balances tone, playability and style. It’s versatile enough for multiple genres and comfortable enough for long sessions. Buy through a specialist like MusicStreet Guitars if you want a properly set-up instrument and aftercare that gives you confidence with your purchase.