ASRR

Jackson's American Series guitars are gaining good ground. This recent RR model is a good standard reference for an American. Since the Jackson brand name is an American flag-bearer so to speak, it makes sense to have an American model to set the standard. On that note, prices could have been more reasonable. Despite being American, the features / specifications for all American Standard models thusfar, had been ordinary; nothing exotic or exclusive. 

But we know how it is when it comes to a tiered arrangement; if you have import models in a certain price bracket, then the American version, regardless of its incarnation / specifications, need to be pegged higher than the rest. By the way, the non-whammy version of this American Series RR is available but prices are north of USD2.3K. There are definitely more value for money selections out there but some of us weak-willed gear heads here has a certain thing for American guitars. Hmm...

Pics: Jackson 

SL-2

New from the Jackson camp - another American Series Soloist but this time, it's an SL-2.

Difference? It's a through-body construction.

Pics: Jackson

 

Soloist prices

The domestic price for the Jackson (Am Series) Soloist SL2MGHT is... $3,999. 

I'm trying to understand why the FR bridge version is listing for as much. Elsewhere, in other guitar stores beyond this country's borders, there is at least a $150 difference, the HT version being the one that lists for less. It makes sense because you pay more for an FR bridge. Deal breaker? Hmm...

Pics: Jackson

Fixed Standard

Jackson released new iterations of its American Series guitars, this time, it's a dual humbucking version. Pictured above: SL2MG. Default pickups are EMGs (81/85).

I'm definitely interested in the fixed bridge version despite not being an EMG fan. Those inverted inlays might be a deal breaker...

 Pics: Jackson

American Soloist

Jackson's American Series Soloist SL3 is now available at Swee Lee ($3,699). This one was touted to be a promising guitar based in its pedigree but the fact that it features a lower tier bridge will be the deal breaker for many of us - especially at that price. 

Pic: Jackson 

Price watch (49)

OK, let's take a look at what's good for the money post-Black Friday / Cyber Monday. This Prestige RG, in my opinion, would be a good bargain if the headstock has less dents / chips. If you don't mind the relic-esque look then it's a good consideration. Then again, who goes for a relic'd Ibanez? People prefer to have the Fender / Gibson name on the headstock if their instrument looks battered / abused, agree?

No... please don't do this. You need to give a heads-up to buyers new to the scene that this is not a genuine article. Is it that difficult to insert the word 'copy' in the title?

This is a good one, condition-wise & the fact that it comes with a semi-hard case.

But please be informed that the guitar's neck & body are from two separate instruments (albeit the same model). Personally, I wouldn't mind this at all because the TL62 inherent features are kept in tact. Also, kudos to the seller for being up front about it & providing fair disclosure.

Final one for this episode - this American Strat, with reference to the price, is a good deal. FYI, a little after Y2K, the American Standard models were known as the American Series, the 'Standard' tag was dropped. These models feature steel block saddles with an offset screw location (as seen above). I'd rather you get this guitar than buying a new, off-the-shelf, entry-level American Strat (American Performer - $1,999). Yes, for recommended items, I will leave the seller i/d visible for your keen reference.

Jackson: Am Series

Jackson launched this last week - the American Series Soloist. It's hyped to be that great playing, great sounding tone machine the world is waiting for. Maybe.

For American pride, there are Japanese tuners on board (GOTOH) ...

... & a Korean bridge (FR 1500 Series). How much for this green one? USD2,499.99 but do yourselves a favour & click this link to check the specs of this Concept Series Soloist, pay attention to which bridge model is offered: CLICK How much? USD1,999.99... That flipped shark fin inlay got some people re-thinking their choices as well. Back in Y2K, Fender's American Standard Series was re-named as the American Series. By the way, who owns the Jackson brand name? 

Pics: Jackson USA