More Js

More Jackson-anigans here. Actually these happened before the American Series stole the limelight. I was a little late as usual because the endorsers of these models are not whom I fancy in terms of guitar-playing. For instance, Josh Smith's Soloist SL7 ET you see above, I'm like, Josh Smith? And I found out he's in a metal core band & like - I don't listen to this kinda of music. But in true guitar-inclined interest sans the judgmental facet, I actually checked it out. The BK Impulse pickups there mean business, of course. I'm sure it has some aggressive applications for those interested. USD2,699.99 - interested?

Rob Cavestany's Pro Series signature model is something I can relate to - that pointy outline screams metal. However, a USD1,199 guitar with an FR Special bridge... em... 

Final one on the list - a Japanese MJ Rhoads RRT (USD2,799.99). A very white guitar with promising appointments & my kinda pickups - Seymour Duncans. However, I've enough of white finishes that would cream off over time. It's like you might as well invest in an off-white finish but if colour ageing is your thing then by all means. Deal-breaker (in my opinion) - price.

Pics: Jackson

Ibanez 2021 (8): Oh my Josh!

This is a smart thing to do; getting professionals to push your instruments through. Nothing new, yes? It's called endorsement & it's done to other stuff as well, automobile, jewelry, F&B, etc. The guitar you see here is a signature model belonging to Josh Smith. If this name does not ring a bell then you are not alone. I spent my chemo time getting to know who he is & in my opinion, he deserves this deal. The timing of it all is also impeccable as Ibanez released the AZS together with a couple of new endorsements, this is one of them.

Unlike the AZS, this one features a soft V neck profile which promises non-intrusion. Also, the tuners are the vintage type requiring you to insert some string length into the shaft. I favour this feature as there is no excessive string material poking through that might just jab your fingers during handling / tuning. The pickups are Seymour Duncan's FlatV models, a collaboration between the manufacturer & the artist. Note that no artist name was used in the naming of the products (guitar & pickups) so everyone else can feel at home owning them. 

This is Mr. Smith himself talking about his new guitar. I find such videos essential as these reveal the depth of product knowledge; some endorsers have poor product knowledge, it's like the instruments were shoved down their throats at gun point when the deal was done. They had no clue what took place but Mr. Smith here has full knowledge of what he was into. 

Have a good Sunday, folks. Stay Covid free, alright?

Pic: Ibanez