What is the Best Electric Guitar for Progressive and Fusion Shred?
Whether you're a seasoned guitarist who has been playing for years and is on the lookout for the perfect shredding axe, or a newcomer eager to explore the vast world of progressive and fusion guitar, this guide is for you. We'll dive into the best options available, tailored for maximum shredding and versatility.
Ernie Ball Music Man: A Shredder's Choice
Ernie Ball Music Man guitars are known for their incredible playability and robust construction, making them a top choice for hard-hitting solos and complex lines. One model that stands out is the Steve Morse model, which comes in two pickup configurations: the original with four pickups and the Y2D with a simpler pickup setup. Read a detailed review here.
Sonic Versatility With Kiesel Guitars
For those who enjoy a mix of shred and clean, jazzy tones, Kiesel Guitars offer custom-built instruments that excel in both. One standout model is the headless design, which might initially be off-putting to some, but offers exceptional sound quality, particularly for that slightly over-driven clean tone perfect for progressive tapping.
BC Rich Eagle
Gibson Pat Martino
Daelig;ngelico
BC Rich Eagle and Gibson Pat Martino are also excellent choices, offering a blend of tone and style that resonates well with progressive and fusion players. Daelig;ngelico guitars, like the Daelig;ngelico Pro, provide a more budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent performance and sound.
Exploring Guitar Preferences of Fusion Legends
For a more definitive guide, it's worthwhile to see what acclaimed fusion guitarists like Guthrie Govan and Greg Howe are using. Ibanez guitars, in particular, are favored for their neck profiles and playability. Models like the S RGA and RG series offer a range of sound options and are suitable for various genres from metal to jazz.
Ernie Ball Music Man Steve Morse Models
Given your mention of both prog and fusion, the Ernie Ball Music Man Steve Morse models are a standout choice. Two notable models are the original with four pickups and the Y2D with a simpler pickup configuration. These guitars offer a versatile tone that can cover a wide range of sounds, making them an excellent investment for any guitarist.
Discovering the Ernie Ball Music Man John Petrucci
After years of experience, I found Ernie Ball Music Man guitars to be the perfect all-around instrument. The Ernie Ball Music Man John Petrucci, especially the JP6 with piezo pickup, offers a fantastic combination of build quality, sound, and versatility. Without a doubt, this model provides the best value for money. For more advanced models like the JPX and JP13, they bring additional enhancements but began my playing journey with the original used model for $1200 on eBay, a significant and positive move in my musical journey.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for a versatile shred machine, a clean tone guitar, or a blend of both, there's a range of options available from brands like Ernie Ball Music Man, Kiesel, and Ibanez. Each has its strengths and characteristics, so do some research and find the model that best suits your playing style and budget.