Owning multiple guitars can be fun but I miss the days when people had one guitar and gave it a lot of love. When you rock one instrument for many years it ages the guitar in a very authentic way and makes it YOUR instrument.
Andrew J 😂 I disagree completely. I just bought another 2 Gibson Les Pauls, (one standard and one studio) and a SG standard. They both sound incredible and feel amazing to play. Both have a very comfortable feel to it.
tbh I have 6 electric guitars, 1 strat in standard tuning for oldschool rock, even punk, 1 Parallaxe in drop D for nu metal, metalcore, metal, 1 ibanez with SD Black winter in drop B for more metal, Epiphone prophecy with EMG 81/85 in drop C, 1 jackson 7 string in drop A, 1 Washburn Solar 8 string in drop E for some DooM OST... so alot of guitars is a must! :-D
I don't want all of the Guns 'N Guitars out there! I just want 'One More' than whatever I currently own!! ("...The eyes of man are never satisfied...." Proverbs 27:20)
Ok, to beat the "wife's going to... if I buy..." Go with the same color scheme on every new guitar, "black" for instance, never have them out at the same time, etc... haha - It works.
My wife asked me why I have four guitars. I say, "I haven't found the fifth one yet." So, when I bought fifth, she asks, "Why FIVE guitars!!!!?" So, I get six. She doesn't ask me anymore.
PRS is another one that delivers great playability, amazing sounds, superb craftsmanship throughout their entire line from the top to the bottom. Highly recommended
Sean Willard I just started back playing after about 20 years ( I have played here and there but not daily) and most of my years of playing was with acoustic so I really didn’t know much about them although I spent time with electric in the beginning.. Anyways I recently found a Santana licensed PRS and I wasn’t so happy at first because the sound was so low or Bassy that it sucked to me and I left it alone and played my 2 Ibanez that I also purchased from the same pawn shop.. After a while of seeing video after video of people “Loving their PRS” I felt there had to be something there and I wanted to experience that so I go to thinking 🤔 I dropped the neck pickup but raised the 4 bottom screws and dropped the low side of the bridge pickup and raised the screws on the bridge pick up to kind of Mimic a Strat .... I tried it out and thought to myself this sound sooooo much better and getting used to the neck took a little time but I love it, honestly it Kicks Ass!! At 44 yrs old I play everyday at the very least 45 min at most 4 hours and I have seen so much improvement in my playing I’m actually proud of myself when rip through lead runs it blows my mind that it’s me doing it .Better Late than Later or Never lol
Try ebay. ;P Seriously though, I feel your pain. :D There's never enough money for what you want to get. I make do on my cheap stuff. One of my favorites is a pretty well worn Ltd F-100FM that I got from Guitar Center for $100. It was already modified (not very well though) for heavier strings and downtuned as a baritone. Kind of beat up and has some dead frets but I love to play around with it. It give me practice on heavy strings and helps toughen up my fingers. There's no fret buzz aside from my lack of skill on the top half of the neck so who cares. It's not like I'm performing for anyone. Whatever you can do to get you to play more right? ;) Cheap and crappy can be just fine as long as it gets you to play.
Sean Thompson yeah I was low key kidding haha. I have a mim strat but Ive been looking for a second, leaning towards a jazzmaster. might have to pick up one of the new squier classic vibes, those look great for the price
I wanted black Strat with maple fret board... found Stretton Payne on UK eBay charity shop... never played as plastic film still intact on pick guard... nabbed for 26 Euro... Needs a little work on frets... postage around 15 Euro.. then found black pick guard with full electronics in auction from eBay China listing for 9 Euro free post.. I am waiting for that delivery... I hope you find a bargain soon..
Troll GC's Used and you can come across a store that has lost their mind & selling something decent for cheap. I have, many times. I think best hit so far was Hagstrom F200 for $49. Its right there with my Epiphone G310 with SD JB and Jazz pickups for $89. And your local stores, too.
Man, I want a Strat so bad. I have a Tele, a Les Paul Junior and a custom made guitar with humbuckers, I just need a Strat, a Gretsch, an acoustic guitar and a 7 string. Then I'll be good for three months before I want to own a Banjo, a Dobro, a drum set and a Sitar. I probably just need a shrink.
A Strat is the first true "Swiss Army Knife" of guitars. Yes, you need to own one. It will immediately become your go to guitar. I say this after playing a Tele and a Gibson on tour for several years- then being captivated by that Strat back in 1995. If you can afford it, go USA. There is a definite payoff in the fit, finish, and electronics- that seems pricey at first but worth it over the decades of use. My Strat has Tele-knobs now and that is the only mod I ever or will make to it!
I feel your pain, Arksolva. I can barely play and I have 6 guitars. No matter how badly I want others, I had to promise myself that I wouldn't buy any more until I got halfway decent... Or until I can at least play a full song. ;P I feel like they're Pokémon or something. I gotta catch em all!
@@Catdaddysound I do not mind MIM Strat/Teles, obviously a USA made would be ideal but I have played great playing Mexican Fenders. Especially the early 2000 stuff. Cool idea, how do you like the Tele knobs on the strat?
@@NeoRichardBlake it really does not matter how good you are on an instrument, the fact that you love the instrument and want to own many of them means that you are doing something you love. At the end of the day, that is all that matters. You get to enjoy playing on instruments you love, that is the very definition of having fun.
Love a Gretsch as well, though i think he sorta thought he had that tonal sound covered with that mention of the Tele's with the gretsch style humbuckers in them. Know it's not the same but it's similar.
I am just starting out with a Gretsch, it was more of a mid range model but I fell in love with the look, feel, and sound especially as I learn to play with the sound.
@@carolynhudson6858 You’re off to a great start! My journey went down a different path, but am thoroughly enjoying finding a Gretsch. Well done in making one of these beauties your first guitar.
Love how everyone is saying that everyone needs an acoustic like this guy forgot to include one. The title says specifically electric guitars. Apparently, no one reads anymore.
electric acoustic, Duh. Ovation makes the best electric acoustic I ever played. I never tried one of those hollow body electrics though. The ones that are shaped like a Telecaster or Strat or something
My rgt42dx may be the nicest feeling guitar iv ever played. They ran about 900 to a 1000 12 years ago give or take and iv played much more expensive guitars. Price doesn't always mean everything...
Bought the SA360NQM by Ibanez. Changed out the pickups because they were a bit anemic. Might change to locking tuners and a different trem. So yeah, quite a bit of modding on it before I'm pleased with it, but it is still a nice and comfy instrument.
I have a Gio, cost me £100 and I still play the hell out of it 6 years later. No matter what level Ibanez u buy, it will be amazing value. I rlly recommend u get one
I grew up in the 2000s era loving metal. At that time Jackson’s, ESPs and Ibanez was the craze in my community. Guitars with sharp pointed edges that shred 🤘🏻 I’ve always been an Ibanez guy till 2014 I had my 7 string Djenty Ibanez. Now that I’m older, there has been a change in my taste of music. More blues, jazz, progressive rock and alternative stuff. I’ve ventured more into guitars and really fell in love with the Fender Stratocaster the moment I played it. Currently if I were to choose one, the strat would be my weapon of choice. I’m using the Fender player strat SSS now.
I just bought a barely used Fender Player SSS MIM. It’s funny because I researched it and gave it a lot of thought and went into guitar center dead set on two humbuckers and either a locking tremolo or fixed bridge. I played a bunch of guitars and was about to leave and there she was in the used section. It was this weird lime green color like a 1970’s swimming pool. It was so weird it caught my eye. I plugged in and it felt right. I tested some clean tones and it sounded great and the fretboard was awesome. Then I switched to channel 2….done. I bought it on the spot. I will never sell that guitar.
I was watching a blind test of Gibsons, and was surprised that so many of them sounded very similar. The one that stood out in the blind test as unique was ... "yep, that's an SG."
@peter paul -- I agree... but I suppose that probably goes without saying. He probably should have mentioned "5 Amazing Electric Guitars" in his title.
Wandamian Crucifixplate -- Electric guitars are amazing and a lot of fun to play... but any guitar player who doesn't also revel in the joys of an acoustic instrument is really missing out on a lot of pleasure, and a lot of great song ideas.
@@zedxxx9 I agree. I was just kind of stating a position. I love the acoustic. I'm not as good on it as electric but it's a different style entirely that people under 35 are being exposed to less and less.
Hi Darrell, I took your advice years ago. I tried every make guitar that was designed for hard rock. Fender, Gibson, Ibanez, Schecter, and many of their models - teles, strats, LP, SG, ES335, signature models, low end, high end, etc. There are two types of guitarists. 1. those who are adept to all models/makes ie., Alex Lifeson and 2. those who specialize on one instrument and really get to know that instrument. Steve Vai, Satriani, Allman, Hendrix, Clapton, Beck, Page, Blackmore, Malmsteen, Johnson, Baxter. After trying everything, I found stratocasters fit me like an old glove. I sold all my other guitars, and there were many, and am sticking with strats.
Darrell you didn't miss a thing. You've got me learning all over again. Over a huge problem with gout arthritis in my hands I stopped playing. I'm back to it and wanting to have a collection.
@@NeoRichardBlake it's a tough thought, I agree. I don't know about your collection, but I'm long past being able to separate needs from wants. With the Jazzmaster at least, it's the most comfortable guitar that I've ever played. That's what made that one a need on my list.
Darrell, hard to improve your 5 picks! My list would have the Les Paul as number 1. To me there’s no other guitar that screams Rock n Roll! And, seeing Jimmy Page with the guitar slung low - what more could I say. Chris
@@nicholasnivenoble9976 i dont think a lot of people play them or can really wanna get into it, It's a very niche market. I am trying to get one next month. SHould be interesting
@@Yu2beFool For real! I don't have a Strat (I have a really crappy and small Dean Playmate that won't intonate correctly though), but when I look at them I always have to think about what pickup configuration I'll get. I'm leaning toward an HSS, though, I think. Edit: typos
I was hoping this video would be more generalized advice rather than "here are five extremely common and popular guitar models." I absolutely don't think every guitarist needs to own all or even any of these. My list would be more like: - A cheap, reliable beater guitar you can take anywhere - A really nice expensive guitar - A guitar with a Floyd Rose and/or some other cool features - An acoustic - A guitar you just really like the aesthetics of Some overlap may apply
To be fair he did outline getting a Mexican Tele which are super affordable, and that Ibanez sells some very affordable models. Also, sometimes a product keeps selling and selling because its just great (LP, Strat, Tele...).
I agree with all on your list. I would, however, consider the Rickenbacker 360. Unique tones for classic R&R. Petty, Byrds, Yes, R.E.M., Green Day, Hollies, Smashing Pumpkins, The Beatles, and more.
I have a rickenbacker 360 (6 string)! It has a reputation of being a jangly Byrds sounding guitar but while it can do that, it can do so much more! Definitely not a one trick pony
As a predominantly jazz player, I have been a Guild girl for decades but just began building guitars from kits and have discovered the versatility of Strats as you talk about in your video. Hands down the nicest neck I have ever played on was an Ibanez. LI love all the little side history and trivia bits you toss in about each guitar line. Great video -- I just subscribed and I am sure my husband will thank you later because I need to buy kits to build two more guitars now!
The Gray Thrasher lol, tbh, she has NO idea what’s hanging in the studio and has no interest. Imma go buy that skinny Ibanez sometime and pretend I’m selling another guitar to pay for it. I won’t. 💰🎸🤫
I had a s-540 Ltd with beautiful flame maple top that I got rid of for some reason in the late 90s ..... Its definitely one I should have held on to. Jackson stealth was another example of a sweet slim guitar.
@@jackdellow I agree to disagree and say the most important pedal is a mojo mojo by tc electronics with a good boost of your choice (relied on tube-screamers for years but TC has absolutely taken over the OD department
I just bought an all original and functioning 1958 Fender Stratocaster. It had been stored inside of its original Fender tweed case, inside of a spare bedroom closet since 1981 and never taken out until I was brought in to verify what the guitar was and try and find a buyer for it. The second owner knew the original owner and bought it off of him in 1981, tried learning how to play it, gave up and then stored it in the bedroom closet until I was brought in to look at it. The original owner also hardly ever played it as well. They also bought it to learn how to play too and only did so a few times so as a result, the guitar is still in immaculate shape. During the verification process, I completely disassembled the guitar except for removing any electronics so even the original soldering would still remain intact. I then had 4 vintage Fender guitar experts look at the numerous detailed photos that I sent them and every single one confirmed that the Strat was the real deal. The more I spent time with the guitar, the more I fell in love with it. As a result, I decided to buy it for myself. I payed just under what was initially thought as fair market value for the guitar. Then as I researched the guitar every vintage expert would then tell me that they think my 58’ Strat and its case may be the most well preserved 58’ Strat and case in existence. At least one that is still all original and functioning. I am now in the process of getting the guitar certified and appraised by as many vintage guitar experts as possible. I still can’t believe that I was able to buy the guitar and have it literally fall into my lap. The guitar is a unicorn guitar, in that it is extremely rare and hard to find. Everyone that has seen the guitar has said that it is more of a museum quality guitar than a player type guitar. One expert even said that because the condition of my guitar is so well preserved that a whole new vintage category may need to be created to properly appraise mine. Now I can’t decide if I should keep it or sell it at a considerable profit.
My Top 5 (in no order as my favorite switches depending on which one I’m playing) 1. Gibson SG 2. Gibson Les Paul 3. PRS Mark Holcomb 4. PRS Paul’s Guitar 5. Fender Elite Precision Bass
100% agree with list. I just need the tele and 335 to complete my collection. I played just one guitar for many years before exploring all the great guitars out there.
If I could go back and do it again, this is likely what I would go for: 1. Squier Strat 2. Epi LP 3. Squier Cabronita Tele 4. Epi Wildkat 5. dunno, maybe a cheap acoustic In my mind, this would cover the widest variety of pickup configurations and classic body types.
That's all fine and dandy but graduate yourself to authenticity and you'll be much happier. Squiers will NEVER sound play or feel better than fenders and epiphones even tho made by Gibson to Gibson's standards will never play sound or feel like a Gibson
I fell in love with Jackson's and their compound radius necks! Ibanez is awesome and similar, but the 16- radius on a Dinky or Soloist of you want to spend a little extra is just so great😎
4 out of 5 ain't bad, although I used to have an Ibanez. I have a PRS now, but any excuse to buy another guitar works for me. Guess I'll have to search out another Ibanez!
@@79943 for me, the guitars you have are great because they're super characteristic. As an engineer though, even though they dont have a unique sound, I love that ibanez can do everything in terms of specs. Especially the AZ series, with 24 frets, hsh, non locking trem (strap in a tremolono and you can turn it into a dive only, fully floating, or hardtail) so it can be detuned, all access heel, you get the point. If only I had the cash to get one :)
Glad to see that Ibanez guitars made your list. They are my favorite guitars but after your critique of the Telecaster, I am now listing for one of those. Thanks a lot!!! lol
Hey Darrell, really enjoyed your 5G Vid. I've been playing for a while and have owned many different guitars, including a Hot Rod Tele and a Les Paul. I broke the mould with purchase of a PRS and I've had an 89' Gibson HRF III since 2008 which kicks any ES 335 into touch. The most interesting perhaps is a pawnshop purchase which cost a 100 quid and went through a complete rebuild. Pick-ups came off a stock Les Paul Custom (the owner went for EMG's" and was binning the 490's, so they were free!) and the new fingerboard was Jazz Bass rosewood in order to get the scale length. Checking the history, I found out that it was a Japanese import into the UK in 1961 under the name Commodore. The rebuild used mostly Gibson parts, medium fret wire, Stop-Tail and Tune-o-matic set up and a set of Grover 18:1 tuners. All this aside, I play my acoustic more than anything, a Taylor Big Baby, which has an acoustic sound that is in my opinion unsurpassed. (Try one!!) I still take out the PRS more than any of the others. One day all guitars will be made this way...
None of the guitars you chose can do the Gretsch thing. You should expand to six guitars. The Filter'Tron pickups are so different that they need a category of their own. Just my thoughts. BTW, I love your videos. Great job!
Couldn't agree more. I have reissues of the '62 Tennessean and "62 Country Gentleman (George's guitars, after his '58 Duo-Jet), and nothing else sounds like them. I have 2 Gibsons, a Ric, 2 Strats, and several others, and nothing sounds like the Gretsches. BTW, and to my surprise, between the Filter-Trons and the HiLo-trons, the Gent & the Tenny sound completely different from each other! Don't let the physical similarities fool you, Gretsch makes a wide range of instruments. And AGREED wholeheartedly: GRETSCH should be on ANY professional guitarist's list of MUST-HAVES!
I know its not really the same but I think everyone should own/build a partscaster, its such a fun experience, its also the best way to learn so much about how a guitar works and learn how to setup a guitar and do fretwork. also your going to end up with your dream guitar when your done!
1) Stratocaster with a blender knob. 2) Semi-hollow with HH. 3) Superstrat with HSH. Of course its all down to personal preference. I would choose a Fender Stratocaster, a Fender Starcaster and an Ibanez Superstrat.
If you want a Les Paul definitely check out an Epiphone Les Paul tribute plus!!! They are amazing guitars that definitely hold there own with a les Paul standard, mainly because they have Gibson USA pickups
I played one at GC not long ago, and they are worth twice what they're asking, seriously! I love my '04 Custom too much to make her jealous, but I'd have one if she never found out!
@@jono4708 Indeed. The Epiphone Elitists are phenomenal guitars. If you can find one, they're better than some of the Gibsons. And they don't really seem to command the big $ you would think they would. I got mine for $800 CAN.
Vaggos I say that to my wife on a monthly basis. I buy a new one & say, “I’m done I swear” until the next sweet Fender Mustang I see in a color I don’t yet have. At that point I need just one more! 😂
Or "I'm downsizing" i (at my most manic) had 46 electrics and I did sell off about 36 to where I only had 10. Since then I've bought another 15. Next week I'm buying a 1983 Yamaha sa1200 s. It's always a thrill to get another guitar. Even if I didn't play I'd want a couple. I used to draw them in my books at school before I ever owned one. Next to a beautiful woman a beautiful guitar is among the most beautiful things to me!!
Darrell, your expertise is undoubted, and you have chosen 5 excellent guitars. My observation is that Gretsch seems to be the name on everyone's lips currently, their tone is distinctive and attractive, and their range has certainly sparked my interest. Should every guitar player have 6 guitars (or 10)?
I think guitar players should own that many guitars until they find their own unique tone. Then they should stick to something that they are comfortable with in order to better improve their skills. If you cant get cozy with your axe, then will you really play it to the best of your ability?
@@Grooove_e guitar players tend to emphasize tone over sentimentality when it comes to their instruments. There are major exceptions but barring celebrity's, most guitar players can't just "stick to" anything because they are often chasing a sound and a newer guitar just might help them get there.
I was definitely with you on the first four. I wasn't certain where you would go with #5. I thought maybe PRS but I won't argue with the S series Ibanez.
Hi! I thought about PRS, but the price on the Ibanez is much better, and the unique playing experience (PRS has a 10" radius, so feels closer to a Fender) made me pick it :)
Generally, I think of a PRS as far superior over any Ibanez ... but I don't own one of either, so I can't really argue my take. I have to say, though, I was actually surprised to see that. Plot twist!! 🤓 Thanks for all your efforts in putting these vids together! You do an awesome job at it! 👍👍 ✌️🙏🖖
@wildcatter63 Ain't that the truth? I used to hate the Tele, because I wrongly thought it was only good for country music. Then, I learned that it can do it all, and has done it all. Now, I love the Tele. So versatile.
There's no experience I've had like strapping a boat anchor with P90-ish hot pickups in it like the... Jazzmaster. From the quirky trem system to the weird bridge saddles, the Jazzmaster is... well, iconic is a good word. Painful might be another. But those single coil Jazzmaster pickups (heck, I have one in an HH config!) sound almost as awesome as P-90s and if you can play a Jazzmaster well, the sky is the limit, from hot and overdriven to mellow and clean, it has amazing tonal differences across the board. Awesome list. Agreed with every pick, and the JM would be my number six.
Well, I can’t argue with your choices. Still, I think the Gibson SG deserves at least an honorable mention. It does have its own unique voice. I own at least one of every of the guitars on your must have list. It took me about 30 of the 38 years I’ve been a musician and playing guitar was my first love. I’ve got about 8 bass guitars, four mandolins (five if I include my double neck Tele style with a mandolin as the 2nd neck), a couple of banjos and a soprano and bass ukulele. That’s why it’s taken me as long to obtain what’s on your list plus my SG. Wonderful rabbit trails in the other instruments.
The SG just isn't as widespread as the other guitars. Other than Iommi and Angus Young, i can't really think of any prominent SG players. For the other guitars on the list however, there's so so many.
a oe If you like 60’s and 70’s rock there are lots to choose from. Tony Iommi, Angus Young, Zappa, Carlos Santana, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Pete Townshend, Mike Oldfield, Derek Trucks and probably a lot of other 70’s rock guys like Allman Brothers, James gang and Blue Oyster Cult etc, just of the top of my head. :)
@@DesperadoStudios I would definitely put Hendrix and clapton in the stratocasterclub, but okay :) I just never liked the feel or look of SGs myself. Ill check some of these names out for sure, thanks!
a oe Yes and Santana is really in the PRS camp these days, but he still sounded good with an SG. And let’s not forget that Clapton invented “the woman tone” with the SG and LP. Also check out Greta Van Fleet if you haven’t, great old school SG tone! I think the SG fills a gap between the Les Paul and the Tele, I sort of think of the SG as a fat Tele or a thin and punchy Les Paul, it’s somewhere in between and if you like Rock’n’Roll you need one. :)
I’ve got a slightly modded squire strat and a epiphone les paul. Cheap but great sounding guitars. I’m a new player at 51 years young so take my opinion with a grain of salt.
mknewlan67 u got time , enjoy the adventure of learning new stuff. You’ll have peaks and valleys but that happens to everyone no matter how far they get. Good luck!
Actually I expected #5 to be a PRS. But one unique guitar you didn't cover (maybe because only low-end versions are still available) is the Gibson Nighthawk. It's my absolute favorite.
Will you make a video on controlling those “slide ups” you’re doing on the les paul recording? That “wooo!” Has always eluded me, and it’s super useful! Any advice would be appreciated!
I for the most part agree with your 5 choices, although I’d say as far as Ibanez I would more just say a super strat. Something with a Floyd Rose and modern humbuckers. Ibanez certainly is a leader in those kind of guitars, but I’m more partial towards Charvel. I would add a 6th guitar though, a p90 equipped growler. From Les Paul juniors and specials to p90 equipped SGs, p90 pickups give a unique rocking tone you can’t find anywhere else.
Granted you've mentioned after market parts a bunch, but for versatility I think something with active pickups would be good to include. An ESP loaded with EMG pickups if you're into prog rock or metal would round this out. Also agree with other commenters about including a semi-acoustic of quality in this list for completeness.
I'm actually modding my ibanez. They are my personal favorite guitar. I was drawn in by the JEM, but the RG series has always been in my budget and always been a great guitar.
I've been playing - poorly - for 40 years and I haven't been a Tele guy until just recently. Now I have two. One with a set of hot-rails and a coil-splitting switch, and one with the more classic single-coils. My single-coil tele is a Harley Benton TE-52 and I can't recommend it highly enough! Especially for $130. It was near-perfect right out of the box. What I'm saying is you don't have to spend a lot of money to try different guitars. I also have the iconic Fender Strat, Gibson Les Paul, and an Ibanez Artcore Expressionist. I guess what I'm missing is the Ibanez.
Don't forget the Gibson SG. I own and play very well all the guitars that you mentioned. I love all of them. But the SG is my favorite sound. Don't let the head dive bother you, you'll get used to it. Your black SG is a super great guitar.
It's a good list, Darrell, with all the expected guitars. As a Strat guy, I certainly approve of your #1 selection. I do have a Tele... only one, though. I haven't had an Ibanez in many, many years. In fact, the one I had predated the Wizard neck. In lieu of current Ibanez thin necks I have 2 Jackson Dinkys and the oddball in my little collection - a Washburn CS-780. It's not an expensive guitar but it plays like a dream. And it's deep purple. The colour, of course... not the band. :-) For whatever reason I just can't get into the Les Paul or the SG. While I wouldn't mind having something like a 335, I think I'd rather have a Gretsch. I guess Gibson just isn't for me.
@@OpethTheater3 - It's not a question of new or vintage... Gibsons of any era just don't feel comfortable for me to play. Maybe it's the scale length, maybe it's the neck profiles, maybe it's the body shapes... probably a combination of several things. To each their own, of course.
Sg is an acquired taste and it's kind of look and sound specific to metal and hard rock. It doesn't make them very popular. Also sg Gibson's are usually the cheapest Gibson's in sight which isn't actually a good thing. I have an sg and I like it but I like my strat much more.
I have two strats, one American and one Mexican. Love them both! I also have an Ibanez Artist that I played for years on stage. I agree that the Ibanez name means quality! Love your videos man.
For me the 5 I Would love to own are the Les Paul , Stratocaster , telecaster, Gretsch and Rickenbacker. So much great guitar music from the 50s 60s and 70s came from Gretsch and Rickenbacker seems a shame to leave them out. The Beatles alone should be enough to include those two.
I've got a collection of guitars, but my two mid-90's Talman's are truly treasured. I hated it when they did their recent re-issue, of course. For a interesting take on how good a Talman can sound, check out Yvette Young!
Dude, not acknowledging that the Gibson SG is the Swiss Army knife of guitars is a huge oversight. And a Telecaster? Everyone should own a Telecaster? Nice, iconic guitars but not a must for a functional collection. I love 335's but again, why essential? Maybe if you're a studio musician, but for me it would just (sadly) collect dust. Now we're left with an unspecified Ibanez and a Les Paul copy. Jackson? PRS? No mention. Ibanez makes some nice instruments at a reasonable cost, but you need to like how they play. Super skinny necks. I need to own these: 1984-85 Kramer Baretta body with Jackson custom shop neck, my specs, modded Charvel 88, modded Charvel model 1, Gibson SG, Ibanez S470. I love players that can make Fenders sound good, Jimi, Dave, Stevie, don't want to seem like a bigot but I've found what works for me. Hope everyone else does the same.
@Don Smilo I call the SG the Swiss Army knife because it's capable of so many tones and it's easily (usually necessarily) modded and is one of the go-to tools in many musicians' bags. I've owned about 13 over the years, have one that's a keeper. Body to neck weight ratio on SG's is model dependent, my current 2011 is perfectly balanced. Dude, there are so many inaccuracies in your SG perception. Les Paul would be rolling in his grave if he knew you equated Les Pauls with SGs tonally. There are a broad range of woods termed mahogany that the two are made of, plus the maple cap on most LP's. Occasionally their tones are similar, but different guitars. And a zillion pickup configurations. And Ibanez as an entire manufacturer being a "placeholder" for shred guitars?? Have you ever even played a Custom Shop Jackson , an Ibanez S540, Charvel 88? To finish, most guitars today have 3 buzzy cheap single coils and 3 worthless controls, not 2 humbuckers. Yep, you can modify the crap out of a Squier strat, but what's the point if you have to replace every part including the neck and the body? You might as well buy cheaper firewood. And PRS = broken (Clunky, overpriced) repaired Gibsons. 1: Glue joints are generally stronger than wood. 2: PRS makes some of the finer guitars on the planet. 3: "Get somewhat shreddy". Thanks for making it obvious the limits of your knowledge and ability. Reply when you learn what you're talking about.
I have these 5 and only a P90's is absent from my bucket list. I also have a Guitalele and Cigar Box Guitar. Thanks for your wonderful channel content.
why do all these basses have 2 extra strings?
Rock on! Lemmy is smiling.
Lolol
A wild Davie appeared
They all look skinny too
Lmfao! 🤣
I hated the look of telecasters before. But one day I just came to love them out of nowhere!
i started to love them after watching a lot of Samuraiguitarist's stuff.
Same here!
.......me too.
Absolutely hated telecasters then outta nowhere hmm 🤔 love that sound need one it gets delivered this Friday woohoo!
Agreed, I used to just hate them, now my Tele style guitar is one of my go to's
Owning multiple guitars can be fun but I miss the days when people had one guitar and gave it a lot of love. When you rock one instrument for many years it ages the guitar in a very authentic way and makes it YOUR instrument.
I like to have one Guitar A Gibson Les Paul. Alot of them
I cant afford so many guitars lmao I prefer having my unique baby 🎸
@@xjohn1970 What about nowadays, would you ever buy 1 now, in 2020? That company is so bad they deserve to go out of business.
Andrew J 😂 I disagree completely. I just bought another 2 Gibson Les Pauls, (one standard and one studio) and a SG standard. They both sound incredible and feel amazing to play. Both have a very comfortable feel to it.
tbh I have 6 electric guitars, 1 strat in standard tuning for oldschool rock, even punk, 1 Parallaxe in drop D for nu metal, metalcore, metal, 1 ibanez with SD Black winter in drop B for more metal, Epiphone prophecy with EMG 81/85 in drop C, 1 jackson 7 string in drop A, 1 Washburn Solar 8 string in drop E for some DooM OST... so alot of guitars is a must! :-D
"Every guitar player should have a Les Paul"
*Cries in broke*
Epiphone exists
@@seilorks6610 Tried all Epiphone's, honeatly the best alternative to the Gibson in my opnion is the Vintage V100, that thing is a beast
@@gabrielmarchigtr I never said epiphone was the best just the cheapest that I know for les pauls
RJ bluesbreaker is a les paul and its very cheap and nice tone
Good alternative is the SG or a PRS
The optimal number of guitars is ..... one more.
Jackson ..???
I don't want all of the Guns 'N Guitars out there! I just want 'One More' than whatever I currently own!! ("...The eyes of man are never satisfied...." Proverbs 27:20)
😍
HereIgoAgain absolutely my friend !
Old radio shows - Suspense
Ok, to beat the "wife's going to... if I buy..." Go with the same color scheme on every new guitar, "black" for instance, never have them out at the same time, etc... haha - It works.
I wonder if that would work with Hot Rods? I have 8 Hot Rods but only 4 guitar's!!! Looks like I need more guitar's!!!
Keep Rocking it out!!!
Until...she reads this post
@@mississippi-son Or she sees a dozen guitar cases in the house.
@Loco Blanco Diablo Crakker Sit a can of orange spray paint somewhere nearby and say you did it yourself.
After all these years, my wife knows all the brands and most of the models. She also knows the difference in pickup types.
My wife said if I buy another guitar she would leave me. Don't miss her at all
Ha! Same here! Now I just have more time to play without being interrupted with a "to do" list! :-)
My wife asked me why I have four guitars. I say, "I haven't found the fifth one yet." So, when I bought fifth, she asks, "Why FIVE guitars!!!!?" So, I get six.
She doesn't ask me anymore.
🤣🤣🤣😮🤣
I just got a guitar for my wife. It was the best trade I ever made.
ask her to wait until it arrives, so you can stop playing the guitar to open the door for her (and for your wife too)
1. Stratocaster (Fender) 0:52
2. Telecaster (Fender) 2:19
3. Les Paul (Gibson) 4:37
4. ES 335 (Epiphone) 7:32
5. Ibanez (S series) 9:53
ty for posting the brands at the end lmao I’m researching a guitar as a gift for my bf and u made it easier 😂
@@rossneyman7781
That is in a different class
Still love my Strat,Tele and Les Paul
The rest are just icing on the cake.
PRS?
Les Paul, what happened to More Paul?
@@user-hu3iy9gz5j we don't talk about more paul around these areas
PRS is another one that delivers great playability, amazing sounds, superb craftsmanship throughout their entire line from the top to the bottom. Highly recommended
Yeah but they are ugly as hell
The PRS goes from mid price to expensive. Ibanez goes from $150 up to expensive. You can put a $150 Ibanez up against any guitar under $300.
Sean Willard I just started back playing after about 20 years ( I have played here and there but not daily) and most of my years of playing was with acoustic so I really didn’t know much about them although I spent time with electric in the beginning.. Anyways I recently found a Santana licensed PRS and I wasn’t so happy at first because the sound was so low or Bassy that it sucked to me and I left it alone and played my 2 Ibanez that I also purchased from the same pawn shop.. After a while of seeing video after video of people “Loving their PRS” I felt there had to be something there and I wanted to experience that so I go to thinking 🤔 I dropped the neck pickup but raised the 4 bottom screws and dropped the low side of the bridge pickup and raised the screws on the bridge pick up to kind of Mimic a Strat .... I tried it out and thought to myself this sound sooooo much better and getting used to the neck took a little time but I love it, honestly it Kicks Ass!! At 44 yrs old I play everyday at the very least 45 min at most 4 hours and I have seen so much improvement in my playing I’m actually proud of myself when rip through lead runs it blows my mind that it’s me doing it .Better Late than Later or Never lol
@@TexanUSMC8089 True.
+1
Darrell I have like 30 bucks
Try ebay. ;P Seriously though, I feel your pain. :D There's never enough money for what you want to get. I make do on my cheap stuff. One of my favorites is a pretty well worn Ltd F-100FM that I got from Guitar Center for $100. It was already modified (not very well though) for heavier strings and downtuned as a baritone. Kind of beat up and has some dead frets but I love to play around with it. It give me practice on heavy strings and helps toughen up my fingers. There's no fret buzz aside from my lack of skill on the top half of the neck so who cares. It's not like I'm performing for anyone. Whatever you can do to get you to play more right? ;) Cheap and crappy can be just fine as long as it gets you to play.
Sean Thompson yeah I was low key kidding haha. I have a mim strat but Ive been looking for a second, leaning towards a jazzmaster. might have to pick up one of the new squier classic vibes, those look great for the price
I wanted black Strat with maple fret board... found Stretton Payne on UK eBay charity shop... never played as plastic film still intact on pick guard... nabbed for 26 Euro... Needs a little work on frets... postage around 15 Euro.. then found black pick guard with full electronics in auction from eBay China listing for 9 Euro free post.. I am waiting for that delivery... I hope you find a bargain soon..
Buy used guitars. If you have some woodworking skills, maybe try a kit.
Troll GC's Used and you can come across a store that has lost their mind & selling something decent for cheap. I have, many times. I think best hit so far was Hagstrom F200 for $49. Its right there with my Epiphone G310 with SD JB and Jazz pickups for $89. And your local stores, too.
Man, I want a Strat so bad. I have a Tele, a Les Paul Junior and a custom made guitar with humbuckers, I just need a Strat, a Gretsch, an acoustic guitar and a 7 string. Then I'll be good for three months before I want to own a Banjo, a Dobro, a drum set and a Sitar. I probably just need a shrink.
A Strat is the first true "Swiss Army Knife" of guitars. Yes, you need to own one. It will immediately become your go to guitar. I say this after playing a Tele and a Gibson on tour for several years- then being captivated by that Strat back in 1995. If you can afford it, go USA. There is a definite payoff in the fit, finish, and electronics- that seems pricey at first but worth it over the decades of use. My Strat has Tele-knobs now and that is the only mod I ever or will make to it!
I feel your pain, Arksolva. I can barely play and I have 6 guitars. No matter how badly I want others, I had to promise myself that I wouldn't buy any more until I got halfway decent... Or until I can at least play a full song. ;P I feel like they're Pokémon or something. I gotta catch em all!
@@Catdaddysound I do not mind MIM Strat/Teles, obviously a USA made would be ideal but I have played great playing Mexican Fenders. Especially the early 2000 stuff. Cool idea, how do you like the Tele knobs on the strat?
@@NeoRichardBlake it really does not matter how good you are on an instrument, the fact that you love the instrument and want to own many of them means that you are doing something you love. At the end of the day, that is all that matters. You get to enjoy playing on instruments you love, that is the very definition of having fun.
@@TheToneLounge I couldn't agree more! 😁 Keep having fun!
Everyone needs a Gretsch. “That great Gretsch sound!”
Amen to that
Love a Gretsch as well, though i think he sorta thought he had that tonal sound covered with that mention of the Tele's with the gretsch style humbuckers in them. Know it's not the same but it's similar.
I am just starting out with a Gretsch, it was more of a mid range model but I fell in love with the look, feel, and sound especially as I learn to play with the sound.
@@carolynhudson6858 You’re off to a great start! My journey went down a different path, but am thoroughly enjoying finding a Gretsch. Well done in making one of these beauties your first guitar.
Gretsch Country Gentleman... beautiful guitar!
Love this video! Unfortunately, my wife doesn't agree with me that this is valid proof for me getting more guitars...
Collin McMahon I sympathize with you, brother!
Ha! Right!?
Don't ask for permission. Ask for forgiveness
A minute of silence for our fallen comrade. ✌️😶
Too true brother....
Love how everyone is saying that everyone needs an acoustic like this guy forgot to include one. The title says specifically electric guitars. Apparently, no one reads anymore.
The title also says 5 guitars and immediately he's saying 5 or 6, so reading doesn't always help.
@@ExternalInputs Yer missing the point: he's talking about peeps chiming in about acoustics when Darrell is talking about electrics only.
Electro acoustic guitar had checkmated you
electric acoustic, Duh. Ovation makes the best electric acoustic I ever played. I never tried one of those hollow body electrics though. The ones that are shaped like a Telecaster or Strat or something
1. Telecaster
2. Backup Telecaster
The 17th Earl of Oxford ❤️
Yeah man 👌
If you can't play it on a Tele - probably not worth playing (just saying....)
Ibanez is that one guitar brand that I always wanted but when I have the money, I’ll buy other brand. 😂
My rgt42dx may be the nicest feeling guitar iv ever played. They ran about 900 to a 1000 12 years ago give or take and iv played much more expensive guitars. Price doesn't always mean everything...
S
So much this
Bought the SA360NQM by Ibanez. Changed out the pickups because they were a bit anemic. Might change to locking tuners and a different trem.
So yeah, quite a bit of modding on it before I'm pleased with it, but it is still a nice and comfy instrument.
I have a Gio, cost me £100 and I still play the hell out of it 6 years later. No matter what level Ibanez u buy, it will be amazing value. I rlly recommend u get one
It's 3 am and I don't even play guitar
NIELS Lemmens get a cheap squire and start
Could be worst !
Chicks dig guitarists
I feel you bro except I only have a strat
buttz krieg I wish
I grew up in the 2000s era loving metal. At that time Jackson’s, ESPs and Ibanez was the craze in my community. Guitars with sharp pointed edges that shred 🤘🏻 I’ve always been an Ibanez guy till 2014 I had my 7 string Djenty Ibanez. Now that I’m older, there has been a change in my taste of music. More blues, jazz, progressive rock and alternative stuff. I’ve ventured more into guitars and really fell in love with the Fender Stratocaster the moment I played it. Currently if I were to choose one, the strat would be my weapon of choice. I’m using the Fender player strat SSS now.
I just bought a barely used Fender Player SSS MIM. It’s funny because I researched it and gave it a lot of thought and went into guitar center dead set on two humbuckers and either a locking tremolo or fixed bridge. I played a bunch of guitars and was about to leave and there she was in the used section. It was this weird lime green color like a 1970’s swimming pool. It was so weird it caught my eye. I plugged in and it felt right. I tested some clean tones and it sounded great and the fretboard was awesome. Then I switched to channel 2….done. I bought it on the spot. I will never sell that guitar.
6.that weird discount guitar you didn't think you'd like but totaly vibe with
I was watching a blind test of Gibsons, and was surprised that so many of them sounded very similar. The one that stood out in the blind test as unique was ... "yep, that's an SG."
Just because an SG sounds different, doesn't mean it sounds better...or even as good.
I know I am crazy but I would rather have an SG than a Les Paul.
@@frankbrown4373 Me too. I think it sounds better, and as I get older, weight is one of the first things I want to know about a guitar...LOL.
@@TexanUSMC8089 What guitarist wouldn't want both and a Strat and Tele to boot???
@@frankbrown4373 I've had both... also think SG is better. More playable and clearer sound.
I think every guitarist should have an acoustic in their Arsenal
@peter paul -- I agree... but I suppose that probably goes without saying. He probably should have mentioned "5 Amazing Electric Guitars" in his title.
Not all players like or play the acoustic tho. It's the less popular option for most people under 35 by a Longshot
Wandamian Crucifixplate -- Electric guitars are amazing and a lot of fun to play... but any guitar player who doesn't also revel in the joys of an acoustic instrument is really missing out on a lot of pleasure, and a lot of great song ideas.
@@zedxxx9 I agree. I was just kind of stating a position. I love the acoustic. I'm not as good on it as electric but it's a different style entirely that people under 35 are being exposed to less and less.
Wandamian Crucifixplate No, I started playing acoustic guitar at age 7 and still pay at 54.
Hi Darrell, I took your advice years ago. I tried every make guitar that was designed for hard rock. Fender, Gibson, Ibanez, Schecter, and many of their models - teles, strats, LP, SG, ES335, signature models, low end, high end, etc. There are two types of guitarists. 1. those who are adept to all models/makes ie., Alex Lifeson and 2. those who specialize on one instrument and really get to know that instrument. Steve Vai, Satriani, Allman, Hendrix, Clapton, Beck, Page, Blackmore, Malmsteen, Johnson, Baxter. After trying everything, I found stratocasters fit me like an old glove. I sold all my other guitars, and there were many, and am sticking with strats.
Go with what works for you! What matters is making music.
Funny. Page rocked a Tele and an LP, equally well. LZ 1 was all Tele. Some of Pagey's hottest solos were Teles. But you would label him an LP guy...
“Ergonomics”
*Laughs in telecaster*
I don't get it
I'll see your laugh kind sir! ...and raise you a chortle, guffaw, chuckle, and a '59 AND a pearly gates!
@@aldrighfernandes6306 telecaster bodies are basically just a plank with a guitar shape
Why did I just imagine what I imagined
Left hand on the neck. Right hand holds the pick. Ergonomics.
Darrell you didn't miss a thing. You've got me learning all over again. Over a huge problem with gout arthritis in my hands I stopped playing. I'm back to it and wanting to have a collection.
In addition to your list: A Jazzmaster, a Firebird, something with P90s, and nothing sounds like a Gretsch hollow body.
I agree that those are all cool, but are they staples that every guitarist needs? That's where the dilemma comes in.
I definitely agree with at least one P90 guitar. Perhaps a les Paul special or Jr. and you're killing 2 birds 😀
@@NeoRichardBlake it's a tough thought, I agree. I don't know about your collection, but I'm long past being able to separate needs from wants. With the Jazzmaster at least, it's the most comfortable guitar that I've ever played. That's what made that one a need on my list.
@@johnm6201 spot on with your choices, but I must respectfully disagree with owning one guitar where you can have two...
I cant hate on the jazzmaster because i have never played one but dang there funny looking. Each to their own though
These are my picks for "top 5 electric guitars!"
Leave your "top 5" favorite classic electrics in the comments below! :)
No sg?
I have a feeling that the fretless guitar is not getting much love
Darrell, hard to improve your 5 picks! My list would have the Les Paul as number 1. To me there’s no other guitar that screams Rock n Roll! And, seeing Jimmy Page with the guitar slung low - what more could I say.
Chris
Well it certainly isn't making my top 5 list! 😂
@@nicholasnivenoble9976 i dont think a lot of people play them or can really wanna get into it, It's a very niche market. I am trying to get one next month. SHould be interesting
How many guitars do you need? Just one more. And then one more and then...
Just one good one - and all the others! 😂
Well, since just a Strat can be customized in so many ways, I sometimes ask myself how many Strats I could want... ;-)
Guitars, girls, and guns have been the sinkhole for my wallet for a couple of decades at least! One can never have too many of either IMHO.
Just one... Of each and every body style I've ever seen! 😁
@@Yu2beFool For real! I don't have a Strat (I have a really crappy and small Dean Playmate that won't intonate correctly though), but when I look at them I always have to think about what pickup configuration I'll get. I'm leaning toward an HSS, though, I think.
Edit: typos
I was hoping this video would be more generalized advice rather than "here are five extremely common and popular guitar models." I absolutely don't think every guitarist needs to own all or even any of these. My list would be more like:
- A cheap, reliable beater guitar you can take anywhere
- A really nice expensive guitar
- A guitar with a Floyd Rose and/or some other cool features
- An acoustic
- A guitar you just really like the aesthetics of
Some overlap may apply
you are talking like a shoe shine boy
@@trillrifaxegrindor4411lol what is that even supposed to *mean?*
I agree with you Zakk, the video should of been called the most common played guitar in the USA lol 😂
To be fair he did outline getting a Mexican Tele which are super affordable, and that Ibanez sells some very affordable models. Also, sometimes a product keeps selling and selling because its just great (LP, Strat, Tele...).
Your shirt says it all
I agree with all on your list. I would, however, consider the Rickenbacker 360. Unique tones for classic R&R. Petty, Byrds, Yes, R.E.M., Green Day, Hollies, Smashing Pumpkins, The Beatles, and more.
I have a rickenbacker 360 (6 string)! It has a reputation of being a jangly Byrds sounding guitar but while it can do that, it can do so much more! Definitely not a one trick pony
As a predominantly jazz player, I have been a Guild girl for decades but just began building guitars from kits and have discovered the versatility of Strats as you talk about in your video. Hands down the nicest neck I have ever played on was an Ibanez. LI love all the little side history and trivia bits you toss in about each guitar line. Great video -- I just subscribed and I am sure my husband will thank you later because I need to buy kits to build two more guitars now!
I love seeing Epiphone on the headstock of my Les Paul.
Why? You don’t like the better sound that comes with the Gibson name?
Quality control at Epiphone is actually superior to Gibson right now. Also, the Les Paul was actually designed by Les at the Epiphone U.S. plant.
Agreed! Weight is the best benefit imho, plus with the price difference you don't have to baby it so much.
Awesome. Now I need another guitar. You can explain it to my Missus.
I bet she has too many shoes in her closet, most she rarely wears. Use that as a bargaining chip.
The Gray Thrasher lol, tbh, she has NO idea what’s hanging in the studio and has no interest. Imma go buy that skinny Ibanez sometime and pretend I’m selling another guitar to pay for it. I won’t. 💰🎸🤫
Wife: WTF Josh!
Josh: Darrell told me this is what I needed
Dude...buy your damn guitar
OMG!! I wan't that ibanez S Series 😍
I had a s-540 Ltd with beautiful flame maple top that I got rid of for some reason in the late 90s ..... Its definitely one I should have held on to. Jackson stealth was another example of a sweet slim guitar.
Could you do a vid like this for pedals?
Hi!
I'll add it to my list :)
Darrell Braun Guitar the most important pedal is the korg miku
Nick Gladwell good question, mxr carbon copy, boss tuner, Logitech trio, boss RC looper, whaaaaa, and the green ibanez tu 88 or something ;-)
@@jackdellow I agree to disagree and say the most important pedal is a mojo mojo by tc electronics with a good boost of your choice (relied on tube-screamers for years but TC has absolutely taken over the OD department
Yes, Great Suggestion. I second it.
I just bought an all original and functioning 1958 Fender Stratocaster. It had been stored inside of its original Fender tweed case, inside of a spare bedroom closet since 1981 and never taken out until I was brought in to verify what the guitar was and try and find a buyer for it. The second owner knew the original owner and bought it off of him in 1981, tried learning how to play it, gave up and then stored it in the bedroom closet until I was brought in to look at it.
The original owner also hardly ever played it as well. They also bought it to learn how to play too and only did so a few times so as a result, the guitar is still in immaculate shape.
During the verification process, I completely disassembled the guitar except for removing any electronics so even the original soldering would still remain intact. I then had 4 vintage Fender guitar experts look at the numerous detailed photos that I sent them and every single one confirmed that the Strat was the real deal. The more I spent time with the guitar, the more I fell in love with it. As a result, I decided to buy it for myself. I payed just under what was initially thought as fair market value for the guitar. Then as I researched the guitar every vintage expert would then tell me that they think my 58’ Strat and its case may be the most well preserved 58’ Strat and case in existence. At least one that is still all original and functioning. I am now in the process of getting the guitar certified and appraised by as many vintage guitar experts as possible. I still can’t believe that I was able to buy the guitar and have it literally fall into my lap. The guitar is a unicorn guitar, in that it is extremely rare and hard to find. Everyone that has seen the guitar has said that it is more of a museum quality guitar than a player type guitar. One expert even said that because the condition of my guitar is so well preserved that a whole new vintage category may need to be created to properly appraise mine. Now I can’t decide if I should keep it or sell it at a considerable profit.
Keep it dude! If it’s in as good of shape as you say that is a unmatched collection piece that no one will ever match
@@HighMarshalSigismund, I’ve had lots of interest in it and want to keep it but am torn if I should keep it or sell it.
I’d also like to add the AT-AT walker on the left to my guitar collection.
😂👍
I saw that too! I want a guitar shaped like an AT-AT walker.
My Top 5 (in no order as my favorite switches depending on which one I’m playing)
1. Gibson SG
2. Gibson Les Paul
3. PRS Mark Holcomb
4. PRS Paul’s Guitar
5. Fender Elite Precision Bass
So glad an Ibanez RG was mentioned...! They’re my go to 😂
How to block Chevy Ibanez saber back in 1986 or 87 with a Floyd Rose should have kept it what model is the HSH with white covers red one ?
Supposed to read black cherry
If you ever make a follow-up or remake of this video, you should include the famous owners of these guitars!
100% agree with list. I just need the tele and 335 to complete my collection. I played just one guitar for many years before exploring all the great guitars out there.
Having to pick only 5, you did great in my opinion.
If I could go back and do it again, this is likely what I would go for:
1. Squier Strat
2. Epi LP
3. Squier Cabronita Tele
4. Epi Wildkat
5. dunno, maybe a cheap acoustic
In my mind, this would cover the widest variety of pickup configurations and classic body types.
That's all fine and dandy but graduate yourself to authenticity and you'll be much happier. Squiers will NEVER sound play or feel better than fenders and epiphones even tho made by Gibson to Gibson's standards will never play sound or feel like a Gibson
I fell in love with Jackson's and their compound radius necks! Ibanez is awesome and similar, but the 16- radius on a Dinky or Soloist of you want to spend a little extra is just so great😎
I once played on a vintage Godin that I dont even remember the model and it was the smoothest guitar I've ever played. Nice tone aswell.
my first electric was a "stratish" godin g1000, wish i had never sold it....
4 out of 5 ain't bad, although I used to have an Ibanez. I have a PRS now, but any excuse to buy another guitar works for me. Guess I'll have to search out another Ibanez!
Ditto for me. Although I have never owned an Ibanez, I have a PRS CE22 plus the Tele, Strat, LP, 335......and a Flying V.
@@79943 for me, the guitars you have are great because they're super characteristic. As an engineer though, even though they dont have a unique sound, I love that ibanez can do everything in terms of specs. Especially the AZ series, with 24 frets, hsh, non locking trem (strap in a tremolono and you can turn it into a dive only, fully floating, or hardtail) so it can be detuned, all access heel, you get the point. If only I had the cash to get one :)
Glad to see that Ibanez guitars made your list. They are my favorite guitars but after your critique of the Telecaster, I am now listing for one of those. Thanks a lot!!! lol
Had a humbucker 70 ‘s tele. It was too ice pick sharp for my ears. Sold it too my brother.
Hey Darrell, really enjoyed your 5G Vid. I've been playing for a while and have owned many different guitars, including a Hot Rod Tele and a Les Paul. I broke the mould with purchase of a PRS and I've had an 89' Gibson HRF III since 2008 which kicks any ES 335 into touch. The most interesting perhaps is a pawnshop purchase which cost a 100 quid and went through a complete rebuild. Pick-ups came off a stock Les Paul Custom (the owner went for EMG's" and was binning the 490's, so they were free!) and the new fingerboard was Jazz Bass rosewood in order to get the scale length. Checking the history, I found out that it was a Japanese import into the UK in 1961 under the name Commodore. The rebuild used mostly Gibson parts, medium fret wire, Stop-Tail and Tune-o-matic set up and a set of Grover 18:1 tuners. All this aside, I play my acoustic more than anything, a Taylor Big Baby, which has an acoustic sound that is in my opinion unsurpassed. (Try one!!) I still take out the PRS more than any of the others. One day all guitars will be made this way...
1) Telecaster
2) Martin 000-
3). Martin Dreadnought
4). A metal body resonator
5) Another Telecaster.
Done
By your collection I'm going to assume you play a lot of death metal.
@THE ACOUSTIC CAGE Yep.
None of the guitars you chose can do the Gretsch thing. You should expand to six guitars. The Filter'Tron pickups are so different that they need a category of their own. Just my thoughts. BTW, I love your videos. Great job!
The fact is, the sound of AC/DC really is a Gretsch.
Yes, a major oversight.
Couldn't agree more. I have reissues of the '62 Tennessean and "62 Country Gentleman (George's guitars, after his '58 Duo-Jet), and nothing else sounds like them. I have 2 Gibsons, a Ric, 2 Strats, and several others, and nothing sounds like the Gretsches. BTW, and to my surprise, between the Filter-Trons and the HiLo-trons, the Gent & the Tenny sound completely different from each other! Don't let the physical similarities fool you, Gretsch makes a wide range of instruments. And AGREED wholeheartedly: GRETSCH should be on ANY professional guitarist's list of MUST-HAVES!
I know its not really the same but I think everyone should own/build a partscaster, its such a fun experience, its also the best way to learn so much about how a guitar works and learn how to setup a guitar and do fretwork. also your going to end up with your dream guitar when your done!
Peter Edie Absolutely- my next guitar is going to be a partscaster. Will probably go for the tele but there are a lot of really nice strat options.
1) Stratocaster with a blender knob.
2) Semi-hollow with HH.
3) Superstrat with HSH.
Of course its all down to personal preference. I would choose a Fender Stratocaster, a Fender Starcaster and an Ibanez Superstrat.
If you want a Les Paul definitely check out an Epiphone Les Paul tribute plus!!! They are amazing guitars that definitely hold there own with a les Paul standard, mainly because they have Gibson USA pickups
I have one Made In Japan. I agree, absolute beast!
Yes, my Japanese Epiphone elitist Les Paul Standard is amazing.
I played one at GC not long ago, and they are worth twice what they're asking, seriously! I love my '04 Custom too much to make her jealous, but I'd have one if she never found out!
I have the midnight blue from 2012. Bring me any les paul and I'll put this thing toe to toe with it. I paid $599 and got $2k worth of guitar quality.
@@jono4708 Indeed. The Epiphone Elitists are phenomenal guitars. If you can find one, they're better than some of the Gibsons. And they don't really seem to command the big $ you would think they would. I got mine for $800 CAN.
"I'm not buying another guitar"
The Biggest lie ever
Vaggos I say that to my wife on a monthly basis. I buy a new one & say, “I’m done I swear” until the next sweet Fender Mustang I see in a color I don’t yet have. At that point I need just one more! 😂
@@Chiefamongsinnerz hahahaa same
Or "I'm downsizing" i (at my most manic) had 46 electrics and I did sell off about 36 to where I only had 10. Since then I've bought another 15. Next week I'm buying a 1983 Yamaha sa1200 s. It's always a thrill to get another guitar. Even if I didn't play I'd want a couple. I used to draw them in my books at school before I ever owned one. Next to a beautiful woman a beautiful guitar is among the most beautiful things to me!!
I have a seagull s6 "the original"
Its a beauty
HA! SO TRUE! I told my wife that 6 axes ago. lol
Darrell, your expertise is undoubted, and you have chosen 5 excellent guitars. My observation is that Gretsch seems to be the name on everyone's lips currently, their tone is distinctive and attractive, and their range has certainly sparked my interest. Should every guitar player have 6 guitars (or 10)?
I think guitar players should own that many guitars until they find their own unique tone. Then they should stick to something that they are comfortable with in order to better improve their skills. If you cant get cozy with your axe, then will you really play it to the best of your ability?
@@Grooove_e guitar players tend to emphasize tone over sentimentality when it comes to their instruments. There are major exceptions but barring celebrity's, most guitar players can't just "stick to" anything because they are often chasing a sound and a newer guitar just might help them get there.
I can't fault my Jackson soloist. Absolute dream to play!
I was definitely with you on the first four. I wasn't certain where you would go with #5. I thought maybe PRS but I won't argue with the S series Ibanez.
Hi!
I thought about PRS, but the price on the Ibanez is much better, and the unique playing experience (PRS has a 10" radius, so feels closer to a Fender) made me pick it :)
Just like my opinion...PRS has top notch products but i always wanted an ibanez s series
Just bought a sa260 lefty $200.00. I love it. I guess they are rare because the only one i could find was in Belgium and I'm in U.S..
Generally, I think of a PRS as far superior over any Ibanez ... but I don't own one of either, so I can't really argue my take. I have to say, though, I was actually surprised to see that. Plot twist!! 🤓
Thanks for all your efforts in putting these vids together! You do an awesome job at it! 👍👍
✌️🙏🖖
Yeah, I kept looking at my stable of guitars and checking off boxes, then at #5 I thought I had a puncher's chance to run the table with my SG.
You can't hide your absolute favoritism towards Telecasters! Good job on the vid, Darrell!
You know me well! 😁
@wildcatter63 Ain't that the truth? I used to hate the Tele, because I wrongly thought it was only good for country music.
Then, I learned that it can do it all, and has done it all.
Now, I love the Tele. So versatile.
Argh! Just 2 Tellies for now! I need more!!!
There's no experience I've had like strapping a boat anchor with P90-ish hot pickups in it like the... Jazzmaster. From the quirky trem system to the weird bridge saddles, the Jazzmaster is... well, iconic is a good word. Painful might be another. But those single coil Jazzmaster pickups (heck, I have one in an HH config!) sound almost as awesome as P-90s and if you can play a Jazzmaster well, the sky is the limit, from hot and overdriven to mellow and clean, it has amazing tonal differences across the board.
Awesome list. Agreed with every pick, and the JM would be my number six.
You need to talk about that sweet looking thinline Telecaster with the Bigsby!
Darrell, loved by human, hated by wallet...
Well, I can’t argue with your choices. Still, I think the Gibson SG deserves at least an honorable mention. It does have its own unique voice. I own at least one of every of the guitars on your must have list. It took me about 30 of the 38 years I’ve been a musician and playing guitar was my first love. I’ve got about 8 bass guitars, four mandolins (five if I include my double neck Tele style with a mandolin as the 2nd neck), a couple of banjos and a soprano and bass ukulele. That’s why it’s taken me as long to obtain what’s on your list plus my SG. Wonderful rabbit trails in the other instruments.
The SG just isn't as widespread as the other guitars. Other than Iommi and Angus Young, i can't really think of any prominent SG players. For the other guitars on the list however, there's so so many.
a oe If you like 60’s and 70’s rock there are lots to choose from. Tony Iommi, Angus Young, Zappa, Carlos Santana, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Pete Townshend, Mike Oldfield, Derek Trucks and probably a lot of other 70’s rock guys like Allman Brothers, James gang and Blue Oyster Cult etc, just of the top of my head. :)
@@DesperadoStudios I would definitely put Hendrix and clapton in the stratocasterclub, but okay :) I just never liked the feel or look of SGs myself. Ill check some of these names out for sure, thanks!
a oe Yes and Santana is really in the PRS camp these days, but he still sounded good with an SG. And let’s not forget that Clapton invented “the woman tone” with the SG and LP. Also check out Greta Van Fleet if you haven’t, great old school SG tone! I think the SG fills a gap between the Les Paul and the Tele, I sort of think of the SG as a fat Tele or a thin and punchy Les Paul, it’s somewhere in between and if you like Rock’n’Roll you need one. :)
@@DesperadoStudios I think i'll stick to my Ibanez, it can do pretty much anything i want it to ;)
I’ve got a slightly modded squire strat and a epiphone les paul. Cheap but great sounding guitars. I’m a new player at 51 years young so take my opinion with a grain of salt.
mknewlan67 u got time , enjoy the adventure of learning new stuff. You’ll have peaks and valleys but that happens to everyone no matter how far they get. Good luck!
No salt needed. Nothing wrong with squier or epiphone.
Those are great guitars! Keep on rocking.
Your dog was rocking out @7:43 !
Actually I expected #5 to be a PRS. But one unique guitar you didn't cover (maybe because only low-end versions are still available) is the Gibson Nighthawk. It's my absolute favorite.
That Ibanez sounded beautiful holy
Will you make a video on controlling those “slide ups” you’re doing on the les paul recording? That “wooo!” Has always eluded me, and it’s super useful!
Any advice would be appreciated!
I have a friend who recently got a used SG and it's like holding paper. It's so lightweight and it made me wanna get one.
Big Ibanez fan. I love mine and yes, it holds it’s own against my GLP. :)
I'd say
1 - HSS Strat
2 - Les Paul
3 - acoustic
4 - bass
5 - 335 or tele (depending on your taste)
I for the most part agree with your 5 choices, although I’d say as far as Ibanez I would more just say a super strat. Something with a Floyd Rose and modern humbuckers. Ibanez certainly is a leader in those kind of guitars, but I’m more partial towards Charvel. I would add a 6th guitar though, a p90 equipped growler. From Les Paul juniors and specials to p90 equipped SGs, p90 pickups give a unique rocking tone you can’t find anywhere else.
Granted you've mentioned after market parts a bunch, but for versatility I think something with active pickups would be good to include. An ESP loaded with EMG pickups if you're into prog rock or metal would round this out.
Also agree with other commenters about including a semi-acoustic of quality in this list for completeness.
Love my emg 81s and 89s great for metal and hardly any noise or feedback
So the whole video I just thought "man he has to say Ibanez" until you reached the last guitar and I wasn't surprised haha
My top 5: The Strat
The Gibson ES-335
The Godin LGXT
The PRS SE 277 Baritone
The Tele or some Tele copy
I would say the SG was your only glaring omission. Perhaps that comes in at #6?
I'm actually modding my ibanez. They are my personal favorite guitar. I was drawn in by the JEM, but the RG series has always been in my budget and always been a great guitar.
You should do a video on 5 amazing amps everyone needs to own (or try out)
I would go with the SG Standard over the semi-hollow-body. The neck on the SG is smoking fast!
Hay what happened to the sg??
My teacher told me that the sg is one of the most useful guitars
And I know that's a one hell of a guitar
I've been playing - poorly - for 40 years and I haven't been a Tele guy until just recently. Now I have two. One with a set of hot-rails and a coil-splitting switch, and one with the more classic single-coils. My single-coil tele is a Harley Benton TE-52 and I can't recommend it highly enough! Especially for $130. It was near-perfect right out of the box. What I'm saying is you don't have to spend a lot of money to try different guitars.
I also have the iconic Fender Strat, Gibson Les Paul, and an Ibanez Artcore Expressionist. I guess what I'm missing is the Ibanez.
Don't forget the Gibson SG. I own and play very well all the guitars that you mentioned. I love all of them. But the SG is my favorite sound. Don't let the head dive bother you, you'll get used to it. Your black SG is a super great guitar.
I’ve tried Ibanez, they look really awesome and all but that thin neck just isn’t for me... remember to try before you buy
Until you are not left handed and you have a chance to try a guitar in a shop
It's a good list, Darrell, with all the expected guitars. As a Strat guy, I certainly approve of your #1 selection. I do have a Tele... only one, though. I haven't had an Ibanez in many, many years. In fact, the one I had predated the Wizard neck. In lieu of current Ibanez thin necks I have 2 Jackson Dinkys and the oddball in my little collection - a Washburn CS-780. It's not an expensive guitar but it plays like a dream. And it's deep purple. The colour, of course... not the band. :-)
For whatever reason I just can't get into the Les Paul or the SG. While I wouldn't mind having something like a 335, I think I'd rather have a Gretsch. I guess Gibson just isn't for me.
You need to get a vintage Gibson. They are the best guitars. Unfortunately they don’t make them like they used to.
@@OpethTheater3 - It's not a question of new or vintage... Gibsons of any era just don't feel comfortable for me to play. Maybe it's the scale length, maybe it's the neck profiles, maybe it's the body shapes... probably a combination of several things. To each their own, of course.
Excellent Commentary on the guitars and of course, killer playing.
Was waiting for the SG but it never came.
There's a reason for that.
@@sevensickstrings What's the reason?
I have one and a Les Paul. Actually prefer the SG.
Two SG'S and a tele in my house. Love guitars! Oh and a strat at the cabin
Sg is an acquired taste and it's kind of look and sound specific to metal and hard rock. It doesn't make them very popular. Also sg Gibson's are usually the cheapest Gibson's in sight which isn't actually a good thing. I have an sg and I like it but I like my strat much more.
I think that there was one that you missed.... And that is a Gretsch
Number 4 was just "a hollow body electric", so that would cover the most well-known Gretsch guitars, I think.
He did mention that Teles are available with Filtertrons.
@@Alex_Mitchell they don't have the 24.6" scale length which is part of the classic Gretsch sound.
The Gretsch has a specific growl the 335 doesn't. A G5420T or the 6120 are good models. The Falcons are too.
@longrider I totally agree. I have G5420T and I love it.
So, if I get a couple more guitars, I'll be able to play like you? Great!
I have two strats, one American and one Mexican. Love them both! I also have an Ibanez Artist that I played for years on stage. I agree that the Ibanez name means quality! Love your videos man.
Yamaha Pacifica 112V it's definitely a budget guitar but sounds really amazing. Can handle any genres as well :)
One of my favourite budget guitars
5 AMAZING Guitar-themed T-shirts Every Player Needs to Own
I feel that firebirds are really underrated for their sound. In my opinion they sound like a les Paul and a strat had a baby
That was the perfect list for electric guitars. Bravo! I would just add one classical and one acoustic.
For me the 5 I Would love to own are the Les Paul , Stratocaster , telecaster, Gretsch and Rickenbacker. So much great guitar music from the 50s 60s and 70s came from Gretsch and Rickenbacker seems a shame to leave them out. The Beatles alone should be enough to include those two.
There is MUCH better stuff than these
@@harounel-poussah6936 Id argue you've never played a rick or a gretsch then
To be honest, I was expecting the SG and the PRS. Still a great list
As a huge Yes fan I missed the ES 175. More sensitive to dynamics than the 335 and totally hollow bodied, so it sounds different indeed.
tbf izzy stradlin proved the 175 fit into modern rock music
#6 Gretsch of choice. Great quality build and unique sound with a beautiful product!
Ibanez Talman are my favorite guitar to play of all time, it is just a awesome sound like no other
I've got a collection of guitars, but my two mid-90's Talman's are truly treasured. I hated it when they did their recent re-issue, of course. For a interesting take on how good a Talman can sound, check out Yvette Young!
@@kitano0 I've got two 90s Talmans, one with the lipstick pickups and a standard double humbucker version. Wildly under-recognized and appreciated.
You're absolutely right about a guitar influencing your playing. That's a main reason
I love my Rickenbacker 330.
Dude, not acknowledging that the Gibson SG is the Swiss Army knife of guitars is a huge oversight. And a Telecaster? Everyone should own a Telecaster? Nice, iconic guitars but not a must for a functional collection. I love 335's but again, why essential? Maybe if you're a studio musician, but for me it would just (sadly) collect dust. Now we're left with an unspecified Ibanez and a Les Paul copy. Jackson? PRS? No mention. Ibanez makes some nice instruments at a reasonable cost, but you need to like how they play. Super skinny necks. I need to own these: 1984-85 Kramer Baretta body with Jackson custom shop neck, my specs, modded Charvel 88, modded Charvel model 1, Gibson SG, Ibanez S470. I love players that can make Fenders sound good, Jimi, Dave, Stevie, don't want to seem like a bigot but I've found what works for me. Hope everyone else does the same.
@Don Smilo I call the SG the Swiss Army knife because it's capable of so many tones and it's easily (usually necessarily) modded and is one of the go-to tools in many musicians' bags. I've owned about 13 over the years, have one that's a keeper. Body to neck weight ratio on SG's is model dependent, my current 2011 is perfectly balanced. Dude, there are so many inaccuracies in your SG perception. Les Paul would be rolling in his grave if he knew you equated Les Pauls with SGs tonally. There are a broad range of woods termed mahogany that the two are made of, plus the maple cap on most LP's. Occasionally their tones are similar, but different guitars. And a zillion pickup configurations. And Ibanez as an entire manufacturer being a "placeholder" for shred guitars?? Have you ever even played a Custom Shop Jackson , an Ibanez S540, Charvel 88? To finish, most guitars today have 3 buzzy cheap single coils and 3 worthless controls, not 2 humbuckers. Yep, you can modify the crap out of a Squier strat, but what's the point if you have to replace every part including the neck and the body? You might as well buy cheaper firewood. And PRS = broken (Clunky, overpriced) repaired Gibsons. 1: Glue joints are generally stronger than wood. 2: PRS makes some of the finer guitars on the planet. 3: "Get somewhat shreddy". Thanks for making it obvious the limits of your knowledge and ability. Reply when you learn what you're talking about.
I have these 5 and only a P90's is absent from my bucket list. I also have a Guitalele and Cigar Box Guitar. Thanks for your wonderful channel content.