More minions

I was of the opinion that Jackson's Minion Series would be a temporary occupation in Jackson's catalogue but it seems that the numbers are growing. To date, they added a maple fretboard version of the Dinky ($299) & the latest addition being a pinstriped body RR ($399). Two things:

1. Appealing novelty. The novelty of owning such scaled down instruments might have carved out a strong niche appeal. Players actually love these guitars & wouldn't mind forking out money for one (or more than one).
2. Real applications. There might be players out there who actually have real use for such guitars. For instance, these might be purchased to supplement guitar lessons for kids. Those who show competency would be allowed to move up to a standard-sized guitar. Also, there might be some bedroom maestros who want a simple offering for fun times.

Bottom line - these instruments would definitely not appeal to everyone. Do not believe the hype or blind recommendations. Best to try one out in the stores before parting with your precious cash. Both are available @ Swee Lee now.

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 

Pink Friday

Despite being smaller than its standard counterparts, the Jackson Minion RR is still very protrusive in its outline. In fact, the last time I played it, that extended tail end knocked onto boxes & I barely moved save for some bending down to turn on / off the amp. That V outline somehow allows a complete rest of the picking arm so it's less tiring for the picking hand but it has to be strapped on. 

This guitar has a pair of LACE humbuckers onboard which are passive models. I'm beginning to like covered pickups more as my pick does not get caught between pickup pole pieces. 

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

Minion V (2)

Alright, let's take a look into the details of the Jackson Minion RR. The guitar was strung up with a set of 9s from the factory. It's too wobbly for me so the 10s were in there after a few days it made into the residence.

I thought these were gonna be bad for the money. You know, those typical entry-level, shrieky, treble excessive pickups in any of such guitars are not gonna sound good. However, these are alright for what I've designated this guitar for- absolute high gain & nothing less. Neck clarity is good & make sure you address that extra brightness coming from the bridge if you're into this. We can all do that, can't we?

From experience, I know how these labels would stain the finish of a satin type over-coat.

So it's designated to the control cavity cover together with the gang.

A look into the cavity- nothing shabby here maybe a little messy with the shielding paint but that's acceptable by my standards. All wires bound & things are looking neat & presentable for the money. Have a feeling that selector switch is not gonna last.

These tuners are decent. Out of the box, two of them were loose & one was over-tightened. It's got nothing to do with them being faulty, just a little less meticulous treatment of the tension screws back at the factory.