Brand new with a hardshell case. From Mann: The Starling is a new guitar design that utilizes features that I've been using successfully on my electric mandolin family instruments and ukuleles for 20 years.. the neck through construction allows greater access to upper fretboard. It's also a pretty well regarded theory that neck through instruments have better sustain and resonance. I've always liked the tonal combination of flat back and carved top.. with this one I use an induced arch on top which tonally seems to fit between a laminate and carved top.. the Jason Lollar Imperial pickup is the perfect match for jazz, blues, etc..