Gibson ES-339 Review - How Versatile Is It?

By R. S. Rasnick

The Gibson ES-339 is a semi-hollowbody instrument that is a cross between a Gibson Les Paul and a Gibson ES-335. While the ES-335 is admired by guitar players for its rich semihollow tones, its body size is comparable to an archtop guitar and is cumbersome for some. Enter the ES-339, which marries the Les Paul feel with the ES-335 sound.

Let's talk about the construction details, first. The instrument's top and body are laminate (maple & poplar) and the neck is mahogany (rosewood 22 fret fingerboard) with a 30/60 profile. The bridge is the standard Gibson tune-o-matic and stop tailpiece. Kluson tuners are standard, as are '57 Classic Humbuckers and chrome hardware. The instrument also features "Memphis Tone" electronics.

The practical value of the "Memphis Tone" electronics is plain. For starters, when you turn the volume down, the instrument's highs stay seamless throughout the taper. Normally, you lose high end when you decrease a guitar's volume, so this is a welcome add-on. The volume decreases logarithmically, so the volume lessening is real smooth and even, corresponding with the actual volume knob numbers!

Another differentiating feature of the ES-339 is the 30/60 neck, which is a 60's style neck and an extra .030" added to the depth. This particular profile is at once comfortable and orthodox, helping maintain both playability and the semi-hollowbody tone we're all familiar with.

When we strapped on the ES-339, we were pleased at the ease of play and comfort, especially likened to larger semi-hollowbody guitars such as a Gibson ES-335.

All of the sounds of a nice Gibson semi-hollowbody are here, though. We played everything from Eric Clapton to Larry Carlton to B. B. King, and it all sounded great!

Feedback was useful and easy to control when we cranked it up. We just couldn't get a bad sound out of the ES-339. From rock and blues to jazz and country, this is one of the most complete and well-playing guitars we've critiqued in a while.

We particularly dug the "Memphis Tone" feature. Call it what you will, it's no marketing ploy. We truly enjoyed getting different settings out of the volume and tone control settings.

We thought we might have to swap out the Classic Humbuckers for some "real PAF" pickups, but we had no need to do so. Likewise, the 30/60 neck profile was extremely comfortable and made the ES-339 a real delight to play.

If there's something that could be improved about the ES-339, we'd like to know what it is, because we sure as heck couldn't find any faults. If you're looking for a semi-hollowbody guitar that's not just the same old thing, give the Gibson ES-339 a try. You'll be glad you did! - 32370

About the Author:

The Gibson ES-339 is an incredibly versatile instrument. If you need to purchase yours today, then you should head on over to Ray's Guitar Shop, which offers the best prices on all new and used acoustic and electric guitars. It doesn't matter if you need a Gibson Les Paul, a Fender Stratocaster, or a PRS Mira, they offer the best deals online.

Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster Review - The Most Versatile Guitar Ever?

By R. S. Rasnick

Unless you've lived in a box for the past 15 years, you know that Fender has had no deficit of Artist-inspired instruments. One of their earliest offerings is still one of their best, the Eric Clapton model Stratocaster. Though it's had a few refinements over the years, its versatility and quality remain extremely high.

Since most folks shopping for a Clapton model are already informed with the basic Stratocaster features, it's probably best to concentrate on what makes the Clapton Stratocaster different.

Maybe the most fundamental if not most evident difference is the electronics package. Since ol' Slowhand has used a number of instruments throughout his renowned career (including everything from a Gibson SG to a traditional Fender Strat), he needs a guitar than can imitate a variety of different instruments.

Fender has obliged with an amazing amount of sonic versatility in a single guitar. For starters, there's an active mid-boost control (powered by a 9-volt battery).

Coupled with the Fender Vintage Noiseless pickups and the master TBX tone control, this mid-boost affords this guitar unheard of tonal versatility. In fact, the Eric Clapton model Stratocaster is one of the most versatile instruments we've ever played, bar none.

But it doesn't end with the sounds. Clapton selected a V-shaped neck with a 9.5" radius fretboard, and this neck is just plain smooth. While the Clapton model favors blues and classic riffs due to its origins, I would guess that some shredders would find the shape and ease of play preferable as well.

If it seems like we love this instrument, you'd be right. You'll have to explore a long time to find a guitar that has the variety of sounds coupled with the playability that this guitar has.

Still, there are some minor suggestions we could make if Fender was listening. We would value some more modern tuners. Sure, the vintage tuners add to the instrument's charm, but locking tuners would be better for an instrument as innovative as the Clapton Strat.

We also wish that the vibrato unit wasn't blocked. However, that's Clapton's preference, so we don't think it'll change any time soon.

These niggles aside, the Eric Clapton Stratocaster is a world-class guitar and one we commend highly. Go get yours today! - 32370

About the Author:

If you've appreciated this discussion and wish to buy your very own Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster, then please visit Ray's Guitar Shop, which offers the cheapest prices on all new and used Fender electric guitars available anywhere on the Internet.

Dimebag's Legacy: The Dean Razorback DB Review

By R. S. Rasnick

Metal guitar master Dimebag Darrell partnered with Dean guitars before his unfortunate death to design the ultimate metal guitar. This instrument, known as the Razorback, is as deadly sounding as it is deadly looking. The jagged design makes it clear that this is no old-fashioned instrument!

Dean makes several Razorback guitars to appeal to a wide variety of different budgets. The features and construction of the guitars dictate the cost. Our current review model, the Razorback DB, is perhaps a more budget-oriented instrument, but don't mistake inexpensive with cheap.

The Razorback DB that we explored came in "Classic Black," but you can also get the axe in Metallic White if you want. It has a rosewood fretboard with a fitting razor inlay at the 12th fret and a mahogany body. The Razorback DB also includes Grover tuners, Dean-designed pickups, and a tune-o-matic style bridge.

Regarding the instrument's action, the Razorback DB has low action without much buzzing at all, once we tweaked the bridge and neck slightly. The guitar lends itself to super-fast fretwork. Dimebag would be proud!

The sounds we got from the Razorback DB were very well-suited for metal and shred guitar, great lows and cutting highs. The humbuckers designed by Dean are quite good and won't have you rushing for replacements just yet. It's not the most versatile guitar on the block, though.

That's not really a slam because one look at this guitar, and you know it's not mean to play "How High the Moon." It's a one-trick pony, but that's to be expected. It's quite a good pony, though!

If we have any complaints, it's that the included case doesn't look like it would stand up to heavy usage. The guitar is also pretty dang big, so it's not a guitar you're going to play around the house casually.

However, for the price, it's a pretty serious metal machine and highly recommended for metal and shred guitarists on a budget. - 32370

About the Author:

If you are searching for the absolutely best price on a Dean Razorback DB on the Internet, then you need to search no further than Ray's Guitar Shop, which offers the best prices on Dean guitars anywhere on the Internet!

The Changes Of Types Of Electric Guitars

By Jake Zertosky

Choosing One of the electric guitars may be difficult. Throughout all genres of music, people know the electric guitar. Musician Gage Brewer in 1932 had given us one of the earliest recorded performances with this instrument and changed music from that point forward. First styles of music that used the electric guitar were the Western and Hawaiian styles. As they were the first to use the electric guitar, they were not the last.

The next genre of music to start using the electric guitar was Jazz. What Gage Brewer did for the music industry, later on George Barnes did for Jazz music. George Barnes played jazz with a hallow guitar. Jazz evolved to Fusion Jazz by the nineteen seventies which was a turning point as guitarist started to use solid body instead.

The creation of distortion with the electric guitar became widely used in what is known as the era of rock. In the mid sixties, bands such as the Yardbirds & Led Zeppelin made some of these sounds by the use of bows for violins and guitar pedals. Eddie Van Halen had even made unique sounds with the use of an electric drill. Over the years and technology updates, these sounds have been created digitally.

If you are interested in purchasing an electric guitar, then you will want to know what kind of guitar it is you are looking for. There are several styles in which to choose from depending on what it is you want to play and how you want it to sound.

A solid body may be one to choose from. Before the steel strings are put on and the guitar is molded and lacquered to it final design, the wood used to make this instrument must be cured by sitting in a heated room for three to six months. Although, a string through-body is similar in design, the basic differences between them is that the strings tie off at the base of the guitar. Both designs use a pick-up to make the sound heard by changing the vibrations into electrical signals.

A semi-acoustic guitar, a lot like the solid body, but has a hallow body. Due to the hallow design, the semi-acoustic guitars pick ups uses the body vibration mixed with the electrical signal. A semi-acoustic guitar can have 1, 2, or no holes in it. These guitars also come in metal. The music that comes from this guitar does not come from the vibration of the strings directly rather it comes from body and the top of the guitar.

Where as electric guitars are typically six string, there are also seven, eight, nine, ten, and twelve string. Other variations of the electric guitar are guitars that have a third bridge and double necks. Double neck guitars are designed to be played as guitar and bass or a twelve string.

When searching for a guitar to purchase, then you will want to shop around as electric guitars can range anywhere from less than a hundred dollars to well into the thousands of dollars. Though you get what you pay for, you will need to research not only what it is you are purchasing but where it has been. Always compare web sites, local dealers, or even pawn shops when searching the different styles of electric guitars. - 32370

About the Author:

There are numerous styles of electric guitars. An electric guitar is a very well recognized instrument in about all music genres.

Gibson Les Paul Standard Review - How Does It Stack Up?

By R. S. Rasnick

While you have to careful about picking up your music history from "Guitar Hero," even playing the super-popular video game for five minutes will teach anyone that the Gibson Les Paul is an unavoidable part of rock and roll history. Since its introduction, the characteristic design and sound have been part of the landscape of popular music, especially rock and blues. Though the shape and primary sound have remained the same, Gibson has made slight modifications to the particulars, from neck thickness to pickup selection.

In 2008, Gibson presented a Gibson Les Paul Standard that contained more than its modest share of changes, some welcome and some not. Let's have a look at these revisions.

Here's a rundown on the changes Gibson carried out. The new Les Paul Standard now includes Strap Locks (Dunlop), chambered body, Grover Locking Tuners, TonePros bridge/tailpiece, Neutrick output jack, and a setup via Plek. If you're familiar with Les Pauls, you'll right away observe the lighter weight, due to the chambered body.

You might suppose that the change in the body type could result in loss of sustain or tone, but that's just not the case here. It has a well-balanced, thick tone that you'd expect from a Gibson Les Paul. One thing's for sure, and it's that the light weight will make the instrument much more "gigable," since Les Pauls have been traditionally back-breakers.

Since I normally replace tune-o-matic style bridges with TonePros, the upgraded bridge and tailpiece are a welcome addition, as is the Plek setup, which resulted in a solid playing and sounding instrument right out of the box.

Granted, a minor truss rod adjustment was required, but that's usually the case when you receive a guitar via UPS. Out of the box, the Gibson was pretty much gig-ready, a testimony to both the Plek'd setup as well as the TonePros hardware.

We were also very impressed with the finish, which was a flamed Heritage Cherry Sunburst. Try as we could, we found no troubles in the fit or finish. While a matter of individual preference, we're also appreciative they chose to exclude the pickguard, but it is included should you desire to install it.

For the revised Standard, Gibson chose to incorporate an asymmetrical neck profile, and I applaud their choice. The whole point is to have a thicker bass side with a somewhat thinner treble side, and the playability is greatly improved with this profile design.

It's sort of a cross between a 50's profile and a 60's profile, but in one guitar. We don't know if we should thank Gibson or Plex, but the fretwork was the nicest we've seen from a stock Gibson, as was the setup.

Since the Gibson/Marshall combo is so time-honored, I resolved to test the new Gibson Les Paul Standard with a JCM 800 half-stack. While it's definitely hip, the chambered body does add something of a 335-type sound to the mix. It may or may not be your cup o' tea.

We also liked the Burstbucker pickups, which is saying something because we're used to swapping out replacements immediately. The pickups accentuate the Les Paul's heavy sound, and you can easily grab some distinctive Les Paul sounds here. The Burstbuckers combined with the chambered body is a terrific combination.

For all the things we liked, there were still various changes that we wish hadn't been enacted by Gibson. That includes the locking Neutrik jack. Though Neutrik jacks are very high quality, we just didn't like not being able to pull the cord out instantly.

Same goes for the PCB mounted volume and tone pots. In fact, all pots, the pickups, the selector switch, and the jack are all coupled to a main PCB board via pluggable connectors. While it's cool in a way, it could also greatly impede changing a pot or swapping pickups. We were left scratching our heads on this one.

Still, these concerns are minor. Overall, the new Gibson Les Paul Standard is a superb guitar in many ways, and we sense the spirit of classic Les Pauls here. Gibson also now makes a "Les Paul Traditional" that might appeal to individuals who want a more traditional Les Paul. Obviously, Gibson has something for everyone in their Les Paul series. - 32370

About the Author:

If you are shopping for the absolute lowest price on a used or new Gibson Les Paul Standard, then you need to visit Ray's Guitar Shop, which offers the lowest prices on all used and new guitars. It doesn't matter if you're shopping for a Fender Stratocaster, an Epiphone Casino, or a PRS McCarty, Ray's Guitar Shop has what you're searching for!

B. C. Rich Mockingbird Elite Classic Review: The Ultimate Metal Guitar?

By R. S. Rasnick

From 1954 onward (the year of the first Fender Stratocaster), most guitar body shapes have been deviations of the Gibson Les Paul or Fender Stratocaster. It's not common for a guitar body shape that varies from these designs to make any significant effect on guitar players who are pretty conservative when it comes to their guitar equipment.

One such luthier who did make a significant impact on the industry with his unique body styles is the late Bernardo Chavez Rico, the founder of B. C. Rich guitars and creator of such memorable guitars as the Warlock and Bich. One of his earliest and most popular models is the B. C. Rich Mockingbird.

Currently, the Mockingbird body shape comes in a variety of versions, including the Masterpiece Mockingbird, the Mockingbird Special, the Mockingbird Special X, the Exotic Classic Mockingbird, the Mockingbird ST, and the Calibre Classic Mockingbird. This review focuses upon our review model, the Exotic Classic.

Current Mockingbird instruments are constructed in Korea to exacting standards, contributing to the guitars' high affordability. While the original Mockingbirds were made by hand in Rico's custom shop, Korean standards have increased to the point where outsourcing the models overseas makes perfect sense. The Mockingbird is still made to very high standards, including neck-through construction, which gives the instruments much greater sustain and tone.

The instrument features an ebony fretboard, which as you would expect lends itself to fast fretwork and is perfectly geared toward the rock and metal player. The 24 jumbo frets were smooth, well-rounded, and polished wonderfully, especially for an imported guitar.

The Rockfield pickups are very nice if you're into classic metal or classic rock and have a creamy, smooth, and well-defined sound. If you desire super high gain from your pickups, you might be in the market for some replacement models (Duncan or Dimarzio), but we found them quite acceptable.

The B. C. Rich Mockingbird has a classic rock look with tones to match. The action and fit are extremely well done, and the stock hardware is solid, though some locking tuners would be a nice addition.

If you want some even more metal sounds, you can opt for the Mockingbird ST, which offers an original Floyd Rose vibrato system. The Exotic Classic, thought, is such a solid hard rock machine that we didn't miss the Floyd Rose one bit, and we recommend the B. C. Rich Mockingbird Exotic Classic without reservation. - 32370

About the Author:

If you're searching for the perfect price on a used or new B. C. Rich Mockingbird, then look no further than Ray's Guitar Shop, which is your number one destination for both acoustic and electric instruments.

Information About Caring For Guitars

By Jake Zertosky

A lot of people around the country are own a guitars of some kind. There are some important things that a person needs to think about when it comes to keeping it in the best condition possible. Here we will look at some of those things that should be done.

Keeping them clean and free of dust is something that people should be sure to do on a regular basis. Use a feather duster or a special dusting cloth to get rid of the dust that accumulates in the area of the bridge and underneath the strings. Making sure that a soft item is used for dusting as this can avoid scratches from this form of cleaning from happening.

The strings on the guitar also need to be cleaned from time to time. Dirt and oils that we produce on our hands and fingers will accumulate in these areas. By keeping them clean it will help to keep the deterioration process to a minimum which will extend the length of time that the strings will last.

Now that the dusting is out of the way it is time to take the next step in the process. Now we have to clean the wooden parts of the guitar you own. This can be done with a special dusting cloth as well, but this time the need to gently rub the instrument is what is done. This can bring the look of the finish back to the beautiful state that it had. If not, then apply some type of polish that is designed for wood and the results that you will get will be extreme. Try to avoid the areas of the guitar that do not have a finish on them as the polish can be damaging to areas that are not finished.

Next we look at some common sense things that will help with the care of your instrument. The case that the guitar is held in has a purpose and is designed to be used. The purpose is to provide protection for the instrument from the things that can harm it. This can be dirt, dust, or a variety of other things that can cause damage.

The weather is another issue that can quickly ruin your instrument. Extreme cold or heat can be very damaging to the wood and the strings causing a lot of damage to the guitar that can be severe enough that it can be unable to be fixed. Keeping the instrument in the case can help avoid this as well as keeping the instrument out of these elements when not in use.

The humidity in a room can also play havoc with your guitar. Keeping the level controlled is the easiest way to keep this problem at bay. If the room is comfortable for you, then chances are that it will be ok for the guitar as well.

Many times we find that the damage to the instrument is far more severe then we originally think. This is when a professional will need to be consulted to assess the situation. They can inform you to what will need to be done to get the guitar back into the shape you desire it to be in. This can be quite costly at times.

Use the internet to help you find other information about caring for your guitar. There are many web sites that are dedicated to this and can be the source of even further information for you to look into. This can help you when it comes to ensuring that the instrument that you cherish has the longest life possible. - 32370

About the Author:

Guitars are fine musical instruments that need to be cared for. If you maintain your guitar, it will be around for many years to come.

Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Top Review - Great Guitar, Great Price!

By R. S. Rasnick

Anyone who's ever played "Guitar Hero" or watched MTV knows that the Gibson Les Paul is one of the most favorite electric guitars in the world, preferred by a number of guitar players in numerous styles, from rock and blues to jazz and country.

The problem for many of us, though, is that Gibson Les Pauls are a bit on the costly side.

A new Les Paul Standard will cost over $2,000, an expensive musical investment to be sure. So what can we do?

How about the Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus?

Don't let the "Made in Korea" sticker fool you. This Epiphone-branded Les Paul Standard Plus sounds, plays, and looks like its American-made brethren. But how does it compare in every detail?

Our review instrument had what Epiphone calls a Transparent Blue top, which is frankly one of the most enchanting tops I've ever seen on a guitar, irrespective of price. Sure, it's laminated, but it's still real attractive. In addition to the pretty top, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Top also has chrome hardware and lovely creme-colored binding.

Suffice it to say, that that the Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Top is one extremely attractive instrument.

I've been lucky to have owned a Gibson Les Paul Standard for quite a while, so I felt like I was in a good position to compare the two instruments. Honestly, I was quite impressed. The neck actually reminded me of a 1960 Gibson Les Paul Standard. It was, in fact, quicker in some ways than my own Les Paul, which has a 50's style neck.

The fretwork overall is quite well done, though perhaps not as nice as my Gibson. The rosewood fretboard had a real nice feel to it, and the frets were smooth and well-polished overall.

The alnico classic pickups deliver the classic Les Paul bite out of the bridge pickup and a smooth, round tone from the neck pickup. Nevertheless, I usually trade pickups out of most stock guitars and would in all likelihood do the same here.

I believe a Duncan JB and Jazz would sound wonderful in this guitar, but the substitutes would be more of a preference than a necessity.

These pickups sound superb and might be what you're looking for without the need for replacements. They did tend to squeal somewhat at high volumes, but not annoyingly so.

The compromises in a model such as this guitar aren't easily apparent. Epiphone saves money by having a veneer flame top glued to non-flamed maple. Likewise, where Gibson Les Paul Standard bodies are made from a single mahogany slab, the Epiphone mahogany body is laminated, as is the neck.

The veneer body, however, actually allows these Korean-made Epiphones to weigh less than the made-in-USA Gibson instruments, a welcome change. The bottom line is that the Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus is a terrific guitar for the money and far less costly than its Gibson sibling. - 32370

About the Author:

If you are searching for a killer price on an Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Top, then look no more! Ray's Guitar Shop has the best prices on all new and used electric and acoustic guitars available online. Go visit Ray's Guitar Shop today!

ESP LTD Deluxe EC-1000 Review - Quality ESP Import?

By R. S. Rasnick

Some people are still under the erroneous assumption that having a "Made in Korea" sticker on a guitar means it's substandard. Those days are long gone. True, Korean-made instruments were once sub-quality, but that was the same for Japanese-made guitars once as well. That is, of course, until companies like Ibanez and Takamine came long.

The ESP LTD Deluxe EC-1000 is proof positive that first-class guitars are made in Korea. Why is that the case?

A guitar is only as nice as its parts, and the ESP LTD Deluxe EC-1000 contains the first hardware in the business. The ESP is equipped with EMG 81 pickups, TonePros System II locking bridge, Sperzel locking tuners, and an Earvana compensated nut.

Clearly, ESP didn't skimp on the details. This guitar contains world-class elements, but how does it play and sound?

As Luck Would Have It, the LTD Deluxe EC-1000 plays and sounds as good as its parts suggest. The action is as nice as any guitar we've ever played. The action is smooth, low, and silky, and the 24 fret fingerboard is impeccable.

We were especially impressed with the capacities of the LTD Deluxe EC-1000 as a serious metal or shred instrument. We ripped sweep picking licks and cranked out power chords alike with no problems. We really liked the EMG-81 pickups, which offer a lot of versatility, though the guitar does excel at high gain riffage.

The tuning is spot on as well, thanks to the included Earvana nut. Chords were in tune from the first to the high frets, and the intonation was exact.

It's also a really good-looking guitar, and we loved the maple top/mahogany body combination. The rosewood fretboard is really attractive as well, as are the abalone inlays.

We tried and tried, but we simply couldn't find any problems with the guitar's construction. Kudos to ESP! This is a guitar that could fulfill a lot of guitar players, given its pro-quality hardware and its color choices.

With a list price of less than $1000, the LTD Deluxe EC-1000 is a pro-quality instrument at a very inexpensive price. The Korea vs. USA debate may finally be a thing of the past. - 32370

About the Author:

If you want to locate the absolute best price on a used or new ESP Electric Guitar, then you must visit Ray's Guitar Shop, which offers the best prices on all used and new acoustic and electric guitars available on the Internet. Go visit them today!

Epiphone G-400 Review - Great Guitar, Great Price!

By R. S. Rasnick

The Gibson SG doesn't have the comparable iconic history as the Les Paul or the Stratocaster, but it's still a mighty rock and roll image. Angus Young of AC/DC can show to that.

Many guitar players, from rock to blues to jazz, have played the Gibson SG at one time or another. While the Gibson SG is a powerful instrument and surely worth the purchase price, not everyone can fork out the $1,200 it costs for a brand new Gibson SG. Fortunately, Epiphone makes an affordable SG-style guitar, the G-400.

Since the Epiphone G-400 is plainly more inexpensive, we have to determine how well it "stacks up" to its big brother, the Gibson SG.

We have no niggles with respect to the cherry finish, which is just plain beautiful and looks great on the instrument's mahogany body. The SG shape itself is faultless. If it weren't for the name on the headstock, the guitar would be a dead ringer for a Gibson SG.

The mother-of-pearl inlays are wonderfully done, though we did discover some small traces of glue residue near the edges. Likewise, we noticed some minute traces of glue holding the neck joint in place, but these squabbles aside, we found the construction quality to be really well done.

The instrument stayed in tune really well, and we are able to set the guitar's action extremely low. The intonation was dead on and easy to set; nonetheless, we thought the bridge saddles were just a touch too sharp when we rested our hand on the bridge. Still, this is a minor complaint.

The guitar plays well, suitable for pretty much any style of music. We did notice a a couple of buzzes and rattles here and there, but we did set the action moderately low, and we didn't observe any of these sounds through an amplifier.

Even unplugged, the G-400 has a superb, vibrant sound. It's a very alive instrument, which is welcome seeing how lightweight the guitar is.

The positive characteristics are only heightened by plugging the instrument into our test amp, a Dr. Z MAZ-18 NR. The G-400 pickups provided a well balanced but not terribly aggressive sound.

All three pickup positions yielded quality sounds useful for just about every style under the sun. When we auditioned the G-400 out with some highly distorted sounds (using some high gain pedals), it sounded a little muddy to us, but that's likely because of the warm-sounding mahogany body.

If you plan to gig with the G-400 in a metal or shred setting, a change of pickups might be needed.

In The End, we think the Epiphone G-400 is a wonderful guitar for people looking for classic rock, blues, and even hard rock tones, and who don't desire to drop a ton of cash on their purchase. It's a fun instrument with various usable tones and one we highly recommend. - 32370

About the Author:

If you are looking for the lowest available price on a new or used Epiphone G-400, then you need to look no more! Ray's Guitar Shop offers the lowest prices on all new and used guitars (acoustic and electric) available anywhere online. Go visit Ray's Guitar Shop today!

Brief Review of the Custom Carvin CT6M

By R. S. Rasnick

Carvin has a well-earned status for making quality custom guitars at a reasonable price. The main downside to buying a Carvin is that you won't find them in your local music shop, unless they're used. The positives definitely outweigh the negatives, however. You can order a custom-made instrument that is one of a kind, made to your unique specifications.

The Carvin CT6M continues Carvin's reputation for quality. The craftsmanship, finish, playability, and sound rival the world's greatest instruments in every way. If you need a beautiful and versatile guitar that you can personalize to your own tastes at a fair price, the CT6M certainly fits the bill. Let's see what makes this instrument so unique.

We tested a Carvin CT6M with an impressive flamed maple carved top. It came with a mahogany body and a set-in neck that we upgraded to 22 medium-jumbo stainless steel frets (nickel frets are standard). We kept the standard ebony fretboard, though we opted for the abalone block inlays. It came standard with locking tuners (Sperzel) and Carvin's Classic C22 pickups. We also invested in a set of Dunlop Straplocks.

We ordered our instrument with the standard Tune-O-Matic bridge with a string-through-body design, though you can order either a Wilkinson or Floyd Rose tremolo bridge as an option. For the finish, we chose a beautiful triple-stained deep blue and a black back and sides.

We received the instrument with our requested .009 strings setup for low action. UPS transported the CT6M all the way from San Diego to Dallas, and the instrument not only played great upon arrival but was tuned to concert pitch as well. The action was perfect, and the intonation was spot-on. We only needed to fine-tune the truss rod a touch. Like all Carvin necks, the CT6M was mega-fast, and was actually one of the smoothest I've seen in a while.

Honestly, I can't think of a single thing that could be done to make the CT6M more playable. The stainless steel frets were a smart decision, since they contributed to the effortless, easy bends and fretwork.

The guitar sounds exceptional. The 3-way pickup selector functions like a Gibson Les Paul or SG and combined with a push-pull tone pot coil tap, the sound options are broad and useful. I could definitely elicit some nice Strat-tones out of the coil tap.

If you're accustomed to upgrading stock pickups, you might actually be content with the Carvin C22 pickups in their stock configuration. We were able to get some very solid blues, rock, metal, and even country tones. The bridge pickup is pretty hot, which makes it a good choice for blues and rock sounds. The neck pickup is nice as well, though it might lack the depth a jazz player may desire. Still, it's quite versatile.

We received the CT6M with a very nice SKB-designed case that provides a really solid fit for the guitar. Even though we had no need to contact Carvin's customer service (since everything was perfect), I can say based on past experience that their customer service really does come through when you need them.

The total for this world-class custom made electric guitar was $1,550.49, quite a deal when you consider that a PRS McCarty or Hamer Studio (other guitars in the CT6M's quality range) sell for twice that amount. Carvin definitely has a winner on their hands with their CT6M. - 32370

About the Author:

If you're searching for the most affordable price online for a used Carvin CT6M, then you need to look no further than Ray's Guitar Shop, which offers the best prices on all used and new electric guitars, including Carvin guitars.

The Carvin Bolt-T: A Brief Review

By R. S. Rasnick

With the Bolt and Bolt-T, California-based guitar maker Carvin makes their entry into the so-called "Super-Strat" market with a model that offers countless customization options. Bolt-on neck guitars are nothing new for the company (they used to make them years ago), though they've become more renowned for their set-neck instruments. Strat-style guitars are virtually everywhere these days, so we have to ask, what does Carvin add to an already crowded market? With the Bolt and Bolt-T models, it's clear that they add a lot.

As is the case with all of their instruments (except for the Cobalt series), Carvin's Bolt guitars can be ordered with a number of options, including customizations of wood, hardware, color, and pickups. The guitar we reviewed came with an alder body and a beautiful flamed maple top with crimson red finish. We ordered a humbucker in the bridge position and a black perloid pickguard. We left the single coils in the neck and middle positions, just so we could still get some realistic Strat-like sounds. We also ordered our Bolt with the Wilkinson vibrato bridge option.

Regarding the guitar's electronics, it relies on a master volume and tone as well as a standard Stat-style five-way selector switch. It also includes two mini-toggles. One allows you to add the bridge pickup in positions four and five while the other allows you to split the bridge humbucker. Obviously, the Carvin Bolt-T has a wide palette of sonic possibilities.

Since we ordered the Bolt with the optional Wilkinson vibrato bridge, we tried to get the guitar to go out of tune, but the Carvin Bolt-T would have none of it. It probably didn't hurt that we ordered the optional locking Sperzel tuners. When you couple those locking tuners with the Graphtech nut, it would take a lot of work to get this guitar to go out of tune. Way to go, Carvin!

If you've never played a Carvin guitar before, then you're missing out on some of the best-playing guitars in the business. We opted to get our Bolt-T with 22 medium-jumbo stainless steel frets and an ebony fingerboard. We were positively blown away, as it was far better playing than instruments costing two or three times as much! The neck's tung oil finish added to this silky smooth feel and playability.

The instrument was shipped in a solid ABS case that is durable despite its lightness. Amazingly, the Bolt-T was tuned to concert pitch and wholly playable when we took it out of the box, which is hard to believe!

Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Carvin Bolt-T is the price. We had numerous quality upgrades and options, and the instrument still cost us less than $1,000 including shipping and the hardshell case. While we still love our Fender Strats, it's hard to justify the cost of a new Fender when you can get a new or used Carvin for a lot less.

All in all, the Carvin Bolt-T is an amazing guitar for the cost, especially if you can find a used one. If you want a guitar that gives you world-class sound and playability at a low price, the Carvin Bolt-T is sure to satisfy! - 32370

About the Author:

If you're wanting to buy a quality Carvin Bolt guitar, then hunt no further than Ray's Guitar Shop, which gives you the most competitive prices on all used Carvin guitars available online today!

Carvin CT6M: A Brief Review

By R. S. Rasnick

Musical instrument maker Carvin has a solid reputation for producing quality custom guitars at a modest price. Alas, you won't find Carvin guitars in your nearby music shop unless you happen to find a used instrument. Regardless, the good far outweighs the bad. With Carvin, you can order a custom-made guitar that is truly one of a kind because it is built to your particular specifications.

The Carvin CT6M continues Carvin's reputation for excellence. The craftsmanship, finish, playability, and sound rival the world's greatest instruments in every way. If you need an attractive and versatile instrument that you can personalize to your own tastes at a fair cost, the CT6M certainly fits the bill. Let's look at what makes this guitar so unique.

We reviewed a Carvin CT6M with an impressive flamed maple carved top. It came with a mahogany body and a set-in neck that we upgraded to 22 medium-jumbo stainless steel frets (nickel frets are standard). We kept the standard ebony fretboard, though we upgraded to the abalone block inlays. It came standard with locking tuners (Sperzel) and Carvin's Classic C22 pickups. We also invested in a set of Dunlop Straplocks.

Though Floyd Rose and Wilkinson tremolos are available as options, we opted for the Tune-O-Matic M bridge with a string-through-body design. The color was a beautiful triple-stained deep blue with a standard black back and sides. Very sharp!

We ordered the instrument with .009 strings and requested low action. The guitar was shipped from San Diego, CA to Dallas, TX via the M.I.B. (men in brown) and showed up not only in tune but playing great! The intonation and action were dead set and required only a small tweak of the truss rod. The action was low and silky, a common Carvin feature. The neck was one of the speediest I've ever encountered.

I couldn't imagine a single thing that Carvin could improve regarding playability. The stainless steel frets were beautifully polished and smooth.

The guitar sounds exceptional. The 3-way pickup selector functions like a Les Paul and combined with a push-pull tone pot coil tap, the sound options are broad and useful. I could easily elicit some nice Strat-tones out of the coil tap.

We were also quite happy with the stock C22 pickups in both the bridge and neck positions. The CT6M yielded some great tones for blues, rock, country, and even metal. It even emits some usable jazz tones, though you'll have to play around with the tone controls if that's your preference.

The Carvin CT6M also came with a very nice SKB-made case that provides a solid fit for the CT6M. We had no need for Carvin's exceptional customer service, since the CT6M came to us immaculate as expected, though I can say from personal experience that, when needed, Carvin's customer support comes through like a flash when you need them.

The total for this world-class custom made electric guitar was $1,550.49, quite a bargain when you consider that a PRS McCarty or Hamer Studio (other guitars in the CT6M's quality range) sell for twice that amount. Carvin definitely has a winner on their hands with their CT6M. - 32370

About the Author:

If you're searching for the most affordable price online for a used Carvin CT6M, then you need to search no further than Ray's Guitar Shop, which offers the best prices on all new and used electric and acoustic guitars, including Carvin guitars and basses.

A Review of the B. C. Rich Mockingbird Elite Classic

By R. S. Rasnick

Since the 1950's, most guitar shapes are mere variations of the vintage Stratocaster and Les Paul designs. It's very uncommon that a unique guitar shape makes a significant influence on guitar players who, for all their differences, are a conservative lot when it comes to guitar body shapes.

One such luthier who did make a pronounced impact on the industry with his unique body styles is the late Bernardo Chavez Rico, the founder of B. C. Rich guitars and creator of such memorable guitars as the Warlock and Bich. One of his earliest and most popular models is the B. C. Rich Mockingbird.

The Mockingbird guitar shape is available in a number of different incarnations. Current B. C. Rich Mockingbird models include the Calibre Classic, the Special, the Special X, the Masterpiece, the ST, and the Exotic Classic, which is the subject of our present review.

Like all the original B. C. Rich instruments, the Mockingbird was made by hand in Rico's shop. Current models, though, are constructed in Korea to high standards, which explains why current instruments are so inexpensive. The instrument features renowned B. C. Rich neck-through construction, which helps explain why the guitar has such solid sustain and tone, since the neck extends through the whole guitar body.

The instrument is a speed player's dream machine! The ebony fretboard allows for very speedy fingerwork. The frets are well-rounded, smooth, and polished immaculately, especially for an import.

The guitar features Rockfield pickups, which offers creamy, smooth rock and metal sounds, though players who desire extreme high gain pickups may want to install Dimarzio or Duncan replacement pickups. If you're more of a classic metal (e.g. Ozzy) or classic rock (e.g. Zeppelin), the Rockfield pickups are perfectly acceptable.

We found the B. C. Rich Mockingbird Exotic Classic to be a first-rate classic rock and metal machine. The fit, finish, and action are impeccable. The hardware is first-rate, though we would have liked some locking tuning machines.

If you want some even more metal sounds, you can opt for the Mockingbird ST, which offers an original Floyd Rose vibrato system. The Exotic Classic, however, is such a solid hard rock machine that we didn't miss the Floyd Rose one bit, and we recommend the B. C. Rich Mockingbird Exotic Classic without reservation. - 32370

About the Author:

If you're searching for the perfect price on a new or used B. C. Rich Mockingbird, then look no further than Ray's Guitar Shop, which is your number one destination for both electric and acoustic instruments.

Purchasing Electric Guitars For Young Musicians

By Manuel Vintagoli

Thanks to people like Les Paul, who were pioneers and developers of the electric guitar, this instrument is the most popular off all instruments, both electric and acoustic. The Electric guitar has had profound effect on music. If it was not for the invention of electric guitars it is safe to say that Rock and Roll would not exist.

Electric guitars are extremely popular particularly with teen age boys. Many teenagers desire to emulate some of the greatest players of the electric guitar, people like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Jimmy Page. The electric guitar is part of a Rock N Roll fantasy, the visualize themselves living a Rock N Roll dream.

Well electric guitars do not have to cost a fortune, sure there are those world class guitars such as the Gibson Les Paul, or the Fender Stratocaster, but even Carlos Santana did not start with the best guitar in the world. Everyone starts somewhere and if you are looking to learn to play the guitar than you may be better off finding a good deal on inexpensive electric guitars.

Electric guitars are much like the people that play them; they tend to have their own personality. Finding the right electric guitar for you is a lot like finding a perfect match for your personality. You want to find one that feels right in your arms, fits your hands just right and plays sweet music. It kind of sounds like trying to find the perfect girlfriend.

Unlike a girlfriend, your electric guitar will never leave you sitting alone in a restaurant holding the check. They will however scream and cry if you don't handle them correctly. Learning the guitar effectively is more than just learning where to place your fingers, or the difference between a B flat and a C sharp.

There is certainly nothing wrong with learning to play on an acoustic guitar, but if you ever really want to rock then you will need to graduate to electric guitars. In fact if you become a devoted player then you will have several guitars, don't worry they don't get jealous. Even if you dream of a telecaster someday you will probably want to start with something a little more economical. Music stores typically provide a wide selection of guitars.

Buying a guitar can be done online or offline, you can find great deals online but you may get lucky and find a good deal at a music store as well. Keep in mind that if you buy a guitar over the internet you won't be able to get a feel for it in your arms ahead of time. You can go to your local music store find the make and model that you like best and then shop around online for a really good deal. This can eliminate the problem of buying an electric guitar, sight unseen.

One way to save money on electric guitars is to buy an Asian import. The Chinese and Koreans both have some great offerings in inexpensive guitars. While these models used to be inferior to the pricier American versions, they have improved greatly in recent years. These instruments now have great pickup and provide an obvious difference form models a few years ago, it is obvious with just one touch.

Second hand guitars are also a great way to get started, while these instruments may have been played by someone else, chances are they have been well taken care of. You can locate good deals on used guitars online or through the classifieds. No matter what you eventually buy, learning to play the guitar can be the start of something great. - 32370

About the Author:

Thanks to people such as Richy Sambora, who were pioneers and developers of the electric guitar, electric guitars are considered the most popular off all instruments, both electric and acoustic.

Review of the Carvin Bolt: The Ultimate Superstrat?

By R. S. Rasnick

The Carvin Bolt is the California music company's submission into the customizable "Super-Strat" market. Though Carvin is usually celebrated for their set-neck models, they remind us that they used to make bolt-on neck guitars several decades ago, so the design is nothing new for the mail-order only company. Since everybody and their grandmother offers a Strat-style guitar, the question then becomes, what does Carvin add to the market? As you'll see soon, they add quite a bit!

The Carvin Bolt and Bolt-T are just like other Carvin guitars (except for the Cobalt acoustic) in that they are available with literally thousands of different configurations due to the various options of hardware, pickups, wood, and colors. With our custom Bolt-T, we chose an alder body with a flamed maple top. We got a gorgeous red finish as well. We decided on a black pickguard and a humbucker in the bridge position. We kept the single coils in the neck and middle positions, just to keep some of the sounds truly Strat-like. We also replaced the hardtail bridge with a Wilkinson vibrato.

Regarding the layout of the electronics, our Bolt-T has a master volume and tone control along with a standard 5-way switch. The instrument includes a mini-toggle that lets you to bring in the bridge pickup in positions four and five, something not usually found on a "real" Strat. There's also an extra mini-toggle that splits the bridge humbucker into single-coil mode. So, the variety of sounds available on the Carvin Bolt-T are wide and helpful.

We tried as hard as we could, but we couldn't make the Wilkinson tremolo to go out of tune, even with some extreme "Van Halen" whammy work. Adding the optional Sperzel locking tuners didn't hurt the tuning, as you'd expect. When you add the fine Wilkinson bridge and the locking tuners with the Graphtech nut, you've got a recipe for perfect tuning!

We ordered our Bolt-T with an ebony fingerboard and 22 medium-jumbo stainless steel necks. Carvin necks are some of the finest in the industry, and the Bolt-T is no exception. The guitar's 25.5" scale and 15" radius felt extremely comfortable, and the necks tung oil finish was super smooth and added to the playability. Like all Carvin guitars we've ever played, the Bolt-T was smooth, fast, and silky.

The guitar was shipped in a solid ABS case that is durable despite its lightness. Amazingly, the Bolt-T was tuned to concert pitch and wholly playable when we took it out of the box, which is hard to believe!

The Carvin Bolt-T is a great playing and sounding guitar, but its ultimate feature might just be the cost. We opted for numerous upgrades (including a flamed maple top), and the guitar was still less than a grand (shipping included). Other guitar makers (including Fender) should take note of what Carvin offers for such an affordable cost.

All in all, the Carvin Bolt-T is an amazing guitar for the cost, especially if you can find a used one. If you want a guitar that gives you world-class sound and playability at a low price, the Carvin Bolt-T is sure to satisfy! - 32370

About the Author:

If you're wanting to buy a quality Carvin Bolt guitar, then search no further than Ray's Guitar Shop, which offers the most competitive prices on all used Carvin guitars available online today!