Universe Ibanez UV77MC Multi Color.
Manufactured in 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993. This was Steve’s main Whitesnake tour guitar. Most live photos of the era depict him playing this guitar. It’s also a unique swirl due to the dominance of yellow in the paint mix. This is also THE guitar that appeared in the Ibanez catalogs in 1990 for the swirls. At some point the neck was changed to the green dot neck – not sure if the original neck was broken on tour(?). The neckplate reads “SV01”. This would be the most recognizable guitar from the Whitesnake era apart from the Universe with the handle that Steve gave to Thomas McRocklin.

An early Ibanez Universe 7-string prototype, this guitar boasts the same

neck as the Universe 7BK Black/Green model, instead of the disappearing

pyramid inlays on standard multicolor models. This was one of the first swirl UniversesThe non-standard neck plate is engraved with the serial number SV01, and all

electronics in the back are exposed. The knob for the pickup selector switch

is also missing.

The back spring cavity is extensively covered up with gaffer and masking

tape. Also on the back is a small white piece of tape featuring notes on a

number of guitar specs including string gauge (.009 – .053) and switch/fret

modifications. As can be expected for a guitar that has toured heavily,

there is quite a bit of wear and paint chipping along the edges of the body.