Whether you are new to the metal scene or have been playing and singing for years, you will know that there are three aspects to creating the best possible sound. You need a distinctive voice and the right guitar – and of course you have to know how to use them! While there are things you can do to get the best out of your voice, it needs to be accompanied by a great guitar sound.
There are so many guitars out there, it can be a bewildering task to make the right choice for your type of music. And there is also the question of budget to consider. Here we bring together five of the very best guitars for the budding metalhead, with something to appeal to every budget and level of expertise.
Ibanez S Prestige Series S5570Q
If money is no object, then you can stop right here. Described by many as the crown jewel of the Ibanez range, this guitar has blown away everyone who has tried it, and has consistently topped the rankings.
The downside? Well, the price reflects the quality, and so this guitar represents a serious investment. Even more serious though is the fact that you might struggle to find one, as Ibanez discontinued the model a few months ago. Some stockists still have inventory, and if you can find one, it is worth snapping up. These are certain to become instant classics on the second hand market – if you can ever bear to part with it, of course.
Jackson JS22 Dinky
For the keen amateur with a more modest budget, the Dinky ticks all the boxes at a bargain price. It has two humbucker pickups with good sustain, a solid basswood body and a comfortable maple neck.
All in all, an elegant instrument for beginners that comes in around the £150 mark.
Schecter Hellraiser C-1
A professional high end sound, top quality components, a classic look and a price tag of less than £700. If you are liking the sound of this, then read on.
This guitar exudes quality, from its top-end EMG pickups to its mahogany construction and rosewood neck. The electronics are also second to none, and those in the know have been quick to observe that with a more famous manufacturer’s name on the label, these would be flying off the shelves for double the money.
ESP Kirk Hammett Signature KH-2
Some guitarists shy away from signature guitars, fearing they could be a triumph of style over substance, seeking to draw in the gullible with their big names and big price tags. Well, the name doesn’t get much bigger than Metallica’s iconic frontman, and the price tag is north of £2,000, but this is one signature axe that is worth every penny.
The quality is second to none, and the Alder body provides a unique resonance and punch that is distinctive from the more popular mahogany.
For sure, it will create that unique Hammett sound, but this versatile instrument is far more than a fanboy piece, and you will not be disappointed with the investment.
Gibson SG
No shortlist of great guitars can be without a Gibson, and here is our choice for the metalheads. The look is classic, the sound is crushing and the quality – well, it is a Gibson, what more is there to say? At around the £750 mark, if it is good enough for Tony Iommi, it is definitely in our top five!
Which one?
Five great guitars, at prices ranging from £150 up into the thousands. Whether you are planning on headlining this year’s Bloodstock or just want to annoy the neighbours with some killer riffs, one of these has to be the perfect metal guitar for you.
Thank you to Sally who wrote this article for us! You can read the full list of 10 guitars by visiting Guitar Fella
