As technology and experience make the production of guitars easier and more affordable, many musicians question what kind of impact this might have on the quality of the guitars hitting the market today.
Fortunately, guitarists are likely to find that they are spoiled for choice when it comes to the best buys and builds. While some of the classics remain stalwarts for the music community, other names in the game have come on to the scene with impressive chops worthy of equal attention.
Shredding On A Budget
Just because the price is easy on the wallet doesn’t mean it’s hard on the ears. Guitars in this range can still have a great tonal range and keep their tune from song to song in even the wildest of jam sessions. There’s plenty of variety when it comes to body styles and features on deck.
- Gretsch G2622 Streamliner: Vintage double cutaway body shape with a classic, feedback-resistant sound to match.
- Squier Vintage Modified ’72 Telecaster Thinline: Chrome bridge and steel saddles for better intonation from the semi-hollow Ash body.
- Fender Offset Series Duo-Sonic HS: Shorter scale length and 9.5″ fingerboard radius suit younger players for more compact playability.
Mid-Range Masters
Musicians may want to spend a little more for a workhorse that can handle a lot, so these guitars play reliably and weather the road better than a cheaper counterpart.
- Fender Johnny Marr Jaguar: The way the single-coil pickups in the neck and bridge work give players that jangle-style play that Marr is best known for using.
- Guild Starfire V: Rosewood base and a Tune-O-Matic bridge with Guild brand vibrato tailpiece match a classic look with amazing sound components.
- LTD EC-1000 EverTune: Seymour Duncan neck and bridge pickups with a mahogany neck and body combine for rich tones and sustained tune.
High-End For Heavyweights
Studio professionals and guitarists ready to invest more for that next push to level-up their skills need a powerhouse of purity in tone and sensitivity to play.
- Gibson ES-335 Figured: Hand-wired and built by a brand known for their attention to detail and electric sizzle.
- PRS McCarty 594: Nickel hardware and a combination of humbucking pickups and single-coil push/pull coil tap tone controls give the best of both sonic styles.
Ernie Ball Music Man Valentine: Versatility and a smooth playability bring out all the best from the pickup components, active preamp, and tone control.