Danelectro is an American manufacture of guitars, basses, amps and FX pedals. Although the company now has different owners, they still produce guitars and basses in the classic Danelectro shapes from the 50's and 60's.
The original Danelectro company began in 1947. Initially they manufactured amplifiers for the department stores Sears and Montgomery Ward, but by the mid 50's were also making electric guitars. Quite successful working under the business model of producing product for department stores, Danelectro's goal was to design decent guitars, capable of good tone at a very affordable price. This led them to using materials like Masonite and plywood in the construction of their instruments as well as the now iconic lipstick pickups, all of which contributed to a distinctive sound. In 1966 Danelectro was sold to MCA but folded shortly after. Some attribute this to MCA moving away from marketing their designs to department stores.
In 1990 the Evets company bought the Danelectro name. Originally, they only wanted to produce pedals but due to demand they started manufacturing the classic Danelectro guitar and bass designs as well. Danelectro have maintained popularity among guitar enthusiasts, with their offbeat designs and retro feel. If you're looking for a truly unique guitar, check out the range of Danelectro instruments at Mannys.