PALM BAY MODEL ARCHIVE
ACOUSTICS
UNPLUGGED
A lesser-known side of Palm Bay’s story, revealing that the company’s distinctive approach extended beyond its electric guitars and basses.
ACOUSTICS
MODEL NOTES
ABOUT THIS MODEL
Although Palm Bay is best remembered for its bold electric instruments, the company also produced a small number of acoustic guitars. These are among the least documented instruments associated with the brand, and very little original information appears to have survived.The known examples offer a fascinating glimpse into another part of Palm Bay’s history. This section brings together photographs, specifications and owner contributions in an effort to identify the different models produced and preserve their stories for the future.
KNOWN DETAILS
SPECS
BODY
Acacia back, Sapele sides
TOP
Solid spruce
NECK
Okoume
FINGERBOARD
Walnut with abalone dots
PICKUPS
Fishman 301 Presys preamp
BRIDGE
Walnut
TUNERS
Unknown
CONTROLS
VARIATIONS
PHOTO EVIDENCE
GALLERY
THE COMMUNITY ARCHIVE
THE OWNERS
Behind every Palm Bay is a story. First gigs, years of searching, unexpected discoveries and instruments that became lifelong companions. These memories are just as important as the specifications and serial numbers. Together, they help tell the story of Palm Bay through the people who played them.
OWNER STORY #001
"I'd wanted a Palm Bay since seeing the adverts in guitar magazines as a teenager. After nearly two years of checking Facebook Marketplace, eBay and Reverb every single day, a black Tidalwave finally appeared. It's now my number one guitar and the one I reach for more than any other."
— Simon, UK
1993 • Tidalwave • Black • Acquired 2024
OWNER'S GUITAR
BUILD THE ARCHIVE
REGISTER YOUR GUITAR
The Palm Bay Archive relies on contributions from owners around the world. By registering your guitar, you can help document serial numbers, finishes, specifications and the stories behind these remarkable instruments.
4
KNOWN TIDALWAVES
3
COUNTRIES REPRESENTED
1991–1997
YEARS DOCUMENTED
KEEP THE STORY ALIVE
JOIN THE ARCHIVE
Own a Palm Bay? Help preserve the history of one of Britain’s most distinctive guitar brands by sharing photographs, serial numbers and stories.
REGISTER YOUR GUITAR →