The Ultimate Jackson Electric Guitar Buying Guide

Jackson guitars have long been a staple for players who love metal, rock, and aggressive styles of music. Known for their sharp body shapes, high-output pickups, and super-fast necks, Jackson guitars cater to guitarists who demand precision, speed, and style. This guide will cover everything you need to know about Jackson guitars, including popular models and tips on finding the perfect fit for your playing style.

About Jackson Guitars

Jackson Guitars started in 1980, as Grover Jackson took over the shop he worked at from Wayne Charvel. Since then, Jackson has established itself as one of the top brands in the world of electric guitars. Famous models like the Soloist, Dinky, Rhoads, King V, and Kelly have become iconic among guitarists for their sleek designs and powerful sound. Jackson guitars are crafted with precision, often featuring unique designs and hardware like Floyd Rose tremolos, making them a favorite for shredders and metal players worldwide.

Best Jackson Models

Jackson offers a wide range of models, each with unique features:

• Jackson Pro Series Soloist: Known for its playability and versatility, the Soloist has a thin neck and HH pickup configuration, making it ideal for fast, technical play. Models like the SLX DX come with a Floyd Rose tremolo for advanced whammy action.
• Jackson Dinky: The Dinky is a versatile model that caters to players who prefer a slightly smaller body. It’s available in the Jackson JS Series for budget-conscious players and the Jackson Pro Series Signature for those seeking advanced features. The Dinky Arch models feature carved tops and come in finishes like gloss black and satin black.
• Randy Rhoads Models: The Rhoads RR24 and other models inspired by Randy Rhoads offer sharp, angular body shapes. The RR24 features a single humbucker setup and a Floyd Rose tremolo, making it a great choice for metal guitarists.
• King V: With its V-shaped body and powerful pickups, the King V is one of Jackson’s most iconic designs. The Pro Series King V and Jackson USA King V are preferred by serious rock and metal musicians.
• Kelly: The Kelly model combines a unique body shape with high-performance features. Available in options like transparent black, it provides rich tones for players who want something different in both look and sound.
• Jackson X Series: The X Series offers affordable yet high-quality models for intermediate players. Models like the JS32Q and DKA HT have comfortable necks and powerful pickups suitable for rock and metal.

Choosing the Right Jackson Electric Guitar for You

When choosing a Jackson guitar, it’s important to consider various factors to find the perfect match.

Budget

Jackson offers models at a range of prices, from the affordable Jackson JS Series to the premium Jackson USA models. The Pro Series and X Series provide mid-level options with excellent features without breaking the bank.

How it Sounds

Jackson guitars often feature high-output pickups suited for heavier music. Models with HSS and HH configurations are popular among players looking for versatility in tone. The Jeff Loomis signature models are a great example of Jackson’s dedication to producing guitars with extreme tonal clarity and power.

Choosing the Right Bridge

For players who enjoy heavy vibrato and dive-bomb effects, look for a model with a Floyd Rose tremolo, such as the SLX DX or Rhoads RR24. If tuning stability is a priority, consider models with a fixed bridge like the DKA HT or Dinky Arch.

Which Guitars Are Best for Which Musical Genre

• Metal and Hard Rock: The Soloist, King V, and Rhoads models are perfect for heavier genres.
• Classic Rock: Dinky models with an HSS configuration offer a bit more versatility for classic rock sounds.
• Alternative: Models like the Kelly or Adrian Smith signature model can add a unique edge to alternative and indie rock.

The Neck

Jackson is known for its ultra-slim, fast necks, and laurel or rosewood fingerboards, making them ideal for technical and fast-paced playing styles. The American Series Soloist and American Series Virtuoso are especially praised for their comfortable necks.

Amps and Pedals

Pairing a Jackson guitar with a high-gain amp, like models from Ibanez or Fender, can enhance its powerful tones. Adding pedals such as overdrive, distortion, or reverb can further customize your sound and create depth.

The Frets

Jackson guitars typically have 22 or 24 frets, with models often featuring jumbo frets that allow for easier string bending and soloing. These features make Jackson guitars especially appealing to those focused on lead guitar.

Pick Your Jackson Electric Guitar at Eddie’s Music Store

At Eddie’s Music Store, you can find a wide range of Jackson guitars, from JS Series starter models to the premium Jackson USA models. Whether you’re looking for a Dinky with a carved top, a left-handed guitar, or accessories like gig bags and pedals, Eddie’s offers a great selection of musical instruments, including bass guitars and concert bass models. We also carry the latest baritone guitars, signature series, and Jackson Custom Shop models to meet the needs of all guitarists.

Visit Eddie’s and try out Jackson’s legendary models, like the satin black Rhoads or snow white Dinky, to find the perfect guitar that matches your style and sound!

Schedule an appointment with us today to get started.