Shabat Lion JD Justin Derrico Signature VT - Goldtop

2025 Shabat Lion JD VT – Goldtop

The Altitude Summary

Introducing this brand-new 2025 Shabat Lion JD VT in stunning Goldtop finish — serial #005 — complete with its original hard case. From the moment you pick it up you’ll feel the boutique craftsmanship that defines the model: a mahogany body and neck, rosewood fretboard, and premium electronics give it that signature Shabat tone. This particular specimen weighs a comfortable 7.6 lb, which is on the lighter side for the Lion JD line (typically around 7.5-8 lb in many listings) and translates into excellent comfort during longer sessions. The action is very low and nimble, making playability smooth from the first note. Its brand-new condition means you’ll enjoy clean frets, pristine lacquer, and full factory setup. Wear-details: none to note — this instrument is fresh out of the box. It plays effortlessly and responds beautifully across clean and driven settings.

Craft & Character

This Lion JD VT brings vintage single-cut styling updated with modern hardware and refined build quality. The short 24.75″ scale length and medium-C neck profile provide that classic feel with added comfort and versatility. The mahogany body and neck construction deliver warm, rich tones with plenty of sustain and mid-range presence. The Goldtop nitrocellulose lacquer finish adds visual flair while maintaining that organic resonance and vintage vibe referenced by Shabat’s design ethos. 

Tone & Hardware Highlights

Under the hood you’ll find Lollar Imperial humbuckers (standard-wind neck / high-wind bridge) and high-grade electronics (CTS pots, oil-filled capacitors) that deliver articulate clarity and rich saturation when you dig in. A VegaTrem VT-1 tremolo system (on the VT version) adds expressive vibrato capability while retaining tuning stability. The Graph Tech ResoMax wrap-tail (in non-trem versions) and Kluson Deluxe tuners round out the premium hardware offering. 

Ready for the Stage

With its lightweight body (7.6 lb), excellent playability, and fully loaded hardware, this guitar is ready for both studio tracking and live performance. The low action ensures quick fretboard access and fluid movement, making it ideal for players who want both comfort and responsiveness from the first chord to the latest solo. Its boutique nature, high-end build, and striking Goldtop finish make it a standout piece for collectors or serious players alike.

Key Features

• 2025 model year, serial #005

• Mahogany body and neck with rosewood fretboard

• Scale length: 24.75″

• Medium C neck profile

• 22 Dunlop 6105 frets

• Lollar Imperial humbuckers (neck & bridge)

• CTS pots with oil-filled capacitors & Switchcraft jack

• VegaTrem VT-1 tremolo system

• Kluson Deluxe tuners, aged gold hardware

• Goldtop nitrocellulose lacquer finish

• Includes original hard case and certificate of authenticity

• Weight: ~7.6 lb