The Ultimate Guide to Electric Guitar Models: Find Your Perfect Strumming Companion.
Buying an electric guitar can seem like an overwhelming task. With so many models available on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. The good news is that there are plenty of electric guitar options for everyone – from complete beginners to performing professionals.
This article will introduce you to some of the most popular electric guitar models available and provide you with helpful information to make the decision-making process easier. Whether you’re picking up your first guitar or looking to upgrade your current instrument, this guide will walk you through all you need to know to find the perfect electric guitar model for you.
Let’s dive in!
Essential Components of an Electric Guitar
Before looking at different electric guitar models, it’s important to understand the basic components of an electric guitar. An electric guitar consists of a body, a neck, one or two pickups (depending on the guitar type), and one or two tone and volume knobs.
The body is the main section of the electric guitar and can be either solid, semi-hollow, or hollow. Solid body guitars are the most common and feature a solid wood construction. Semi-hollow body guitars have a center block of wood extending through the entire depth of the guitar and are typically lighter in weight. Hollow body guitars feature a hollow center and are the most fragile and feedback-prone of the three styles.
The neck of an electric guitar is made from wood and is typically a maple or mahogany construction. Maple is usually preferred for its brighter sound, while mahogany produces a warmer, richer tone. The neck also consists of a fingerboard and frets, which are metal ridges that divide the fingerboard into notes.
Pickups are crucial components of an electric guitar, as they are responsible for translating string vibrations into electrical signals. There are many different kinds of pickups, but the most common type is the humbucker. Humbuckers have two coils that attenuate all electromagnetic interference and produce a powerful output, warm tone, and smooth sustain.
Two tone and volume knobs (also known as pots) are standard on electric guitars. These knobs allow you to adjust the volume, as well as two specific frequencies (or highs and lows) to create your desired sound.
Common Electric Guitar Models
Now that you know the essential components of an electric guitar, let’s take a look at some of the most popular electric guitar models.
1. The Fender Stratocaster
The Fender Stratocaster is undoubtedly one of the most iconic electric guitar models ever created. Born in the 1950s, the Stratocaster is a solid body electric guitar with three single-coil pickups, a double cutaway body, and a contoured neck. The shape of the Stratocaster is so iconic that Fender even trademarked it in the U.S.! The Stratocaster is known for its bright, bright sound and its fast action.
2. The Gibson Les Paul
The Gibson Les Paul is another classic electric guitar model that has been around since 1952. The Les Paul is a solid body electric guitar with two humbucker pickups, a solid mahogany body, and a glued-in neck. It is known for its thick, powerful sound and sustain.
3. The PRS (Paul Reed Smith)
The PRS (Paul Reed Smith) is the brainchild of luthier Paul Reed Smith. It is a solid body electric guitar with two humbucker pickups, a maple top, and a mahogany body and neck. The PRS is known for its chunky rhythm tones and its clarity.
4. The Ibanez RG
The Ibanez RG is a solid body electric guitar designed in the 1980s. It features two humbucker pickups, a superstrat body shape, and a maple neck and fretboard. The RG is known for its bright attack, aggressive sound, and fast action.
Conclusion
No matter what kind of electric guitar you’re looking for, there is certainly a model out there that is perfect for you. Whether you’re a beginner searching for the perfect starter guitar, an experienced player looking to upgrade your sound, or a professional on the search for the newest and greatest gear, this guide to electric guitar models will help you find the perfect instrument for you.
Good luck on your electric guitar shopping journey!