A variety of brands could be considered suitable for playing heavy metal guitar. However, there are some brands that are more associated with the style than others. Famous heavy metal guitarists often prefer Ibanez, ESP, Jackson, and Schecter.
These brands specialize in producing the high output and sustain heavy metal needs, as well as offering a variety of shapes and models. In addition, all of these brands have models that feature unique designs, either custom or off the shelf, which will appeal to metal players.
Ibanez, ESP, and Jackson also have custom shop divisions, which provide greater potential for customization to get just the tone, feel, and look desired. Ultimately, the best brand of guitar for heavy metal is the one with which the player is most comfortable, as sound and feel are highly personal.
The aforementioned brands tend to be most popular for heavy metal, however, and offer a wide array of guitars suited for the style.
Can you play heavy metal with any guitar?
Yes, you can play heavy metal with any guitar. If you have a basic understanding of guitar playing technique and access to the right equipment, you can definitely learn to play heavy metal with any type of guitar.
The essential components to playing heavy metal are the right strings, pickups, amplifiers, pedals, and guitar technique. While some guitars, such as those with single-coil pickups, may not be ideal for playing heavy metal, you can still make them work.
It’s important to know the basics of guitar technique, such as hammer-ons and pull-offs, palm muting, and two-hand tapping. And, of course, you need the right gear setup, with the right strings, pickups, and amplifiers to get the desired sound for playing metal.
You may also need to pick up some metal guitar pedals, as these can help shape your tone and add to the overall sound. No matter what guitar you choose, with the right technique and equipment setup, you can definitely play heavy metal on it.
What are metal guitars called?
Metal guitars are typically referred to as electric guitars that are designed to be played in a more aggressive, hard-rocking style, generally characterized by distortion, palm muting and dive bombs.
In some cases, metal guitars may even utilize extended range models, such as seven or eight-stringed instruments with deeper tones, looser low-end response, and more bottom-end emphasis, which is beneficial for playing heavier genres like metal.
Overall, metal guitars are typically characterized by being more robustly constructed than standard electric guitars, with thicker necks and body wings, more powerful pickups and more heavily shielded electronics to take on the more extreme sound and styles that come with metal.
Classic metal guitars and their brand names, such as the Gibson Flying V and Dean ML, are instantly recognizable and are often recreated by modern manufacturers to achieve the genuine look and tone of the originals.
Metal guitars come in a wide variety of shapes and styles, so it can be difficult to define what exactly qualifies as a metal guitar. Ultimately, a metal guitar is any kind of electric guitar that can handle the types of sounds and playing styles that come with metal genres.
Are there metal guitars?
Yes, there are metal guitars. Metal guitars are typically built with higher output pickups and thicker strings than other guitar types, as well as bodies and necks that are designed to withstand the heavy use that comes with metal music.
The most common type of metal guitar is the traditional electric guitar, usually with a Floyd Rose tremolo bar for quick string bending and fast changes in tuning. There are also dedicated metal guitars designed to accommodate the particular requirements of metal music.
These guitars feature extra-thick pickups and wider strings for better control over distortion and heavier tremolo systems. Acoustic guitars are also used by some metal bands, usually with altered tunings and high-output pickups.
What guitars do Slipknot use?
Slipknot uses a variety of different guitars, many of which were custom-made or modified. Jim Root, the band’s main guitar player, primarily uses Jackson Signature series and Fender Stratocaster guitars, alongside his signature-model Jackson Soloist.
Mick Thomson, another guitarist in the band, uses signature Jackson and Ibanez models, as well as a Gretsch White Falcon guitar. Other instruments used by the band include six string bass guitars and baritones, both of which Jim Root plays.
Corey Taylor is credited for using various models of Schecter and Ibanez guitars, mainly for live performances. Craig Jones is credited for using Gibson Les Paul Standard and Studio models, amongst others.
Shawn Crahan’s guitar arsenal includes a Pelham Blue Gibson Les Paul with custom wiring and an EMG 81 pickup in the bridge.
Can a telecaster play metal?
Yes, a Telecaster absolutely can be used to play metal. While the Telecaster has a reputation for producing twangy, bluesy tones, it can actually be used for a wide range of musical genres. Through the use of high-gain pickups, an amplifier with appropriate gain settings, and quality effects pedals, a Telecaster can produce cutting, distorted tones needed for metal.
Additionally, the instrument’s single-cutaway body allows for easy access to the higher frets, making fast, aggressive riffs and solos easier to play. The Telecaster is a very versatile instrument and can certainly be used to play metal.
Are Jackson guitars only metal?
No, Jackson guitars are not only made of metal. While they are known for their metal-bodied, high-performance electric guitars, they also offer a wide range of acoustic, semi-acoustic, and bass guitars.
Jackson’s acoustic models come in all shapes, sizes, and wood types, ranging from glossy 8-string electric models to traditional dreadnoughts and jumbos. They also produce baritone and 7-string electrics in a variety of finishes and features.
Jackson is acclaimed for its innovation in electric guitar designs and continues to create new models each year that reflect modern trends. So while Jackson guitars have a reputation for being metal-bodied, they also offer a variety of other guitar types that cater to every guitar player’s needs.
Is there such thing as a metal guitar?
Yes, there is such a thing as a metal guitar. For many rock and metal players, this type of instrument has become an essential part of their sound. Metal guitars are typically made from solid body materials such as basswood or mahogany.
They are designed to have the heavier sounds and tones that metal music requires. Metal guitars usually have thicker strings and pickups that make a powerful sustaining sound. Many metal guitarists prefer humbucker pickups for a more aggressive sound.
Other features such as Floyd Rose tremolos, locking tuners and a 24 or 25.5-inch scale neck make it easier to play fast, precise solos and precise riffs. Metal guitars usually come with flat fretboards as additional fretboard styling options.
Finally, many of these instruments feature active electronics, allowing for more precise tonal control and better tuning stability.
What type of guitar is used for metal?
The type of guitar that is most commonly used for metal is the electric guitar. Electric guitars are typically built with single coil and humbucking pickups, offering a wide array of sounds. Players often choose guitars with active pickups, increased sustain, and the ability to reach high gain levels through overdrive, distortion, and effects.
For those looking for a specific tone, many opt for guitars with active pickups and mahogany bodies, with models such as the Jackson Rhoads, Ibanez RG Prestige, or Schecter Damien being popular among metal guitarists.
Keep in mind that the choice of guitar and sound ultimately comes down to personal preference and style.
What should I look for in a guitar for metal?
When buying a guitar for metal, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you are purchasing the right instrument.
First, the neck of the guitar should be slim and fast. A slim neck allows for fast transitions between chords and is well-suited for the sweeping and technical licks associated with metal. For the same reason, look for a guitar with a flat fretboard with a fast radius.
Frets can also play an integral part in playing faster – especially on modern guitars that feature jumbo frets.
Second, humbucker pickups are key for metal. Single coil pickups are prone to picking up outside noise and can’t quite produce the range of tones available from the beefier humbuckers. You may want to consider a guitar that allows for higher output, or even active pickups for the most powerful and dynamic sound.
Finally, don’t forget about the aesthetics. Metal is all about attitude, image, and styling. Look for a guitar with a look that speaks to your personal style. This can range from bright, bold colors and interesting finishes, to classic looks in classic black or even tactile “aged” finishes.
No matter what, the guitar needs to reflect your personal style!.
Can you play metal on a Stratocaster?
Yes, you can play metal on a Stratocaster. The style of music you can play on a Stratocaster ultimately depends on the player. The Stratocaster is often associated with blues and classic rock, but with the right combination of pickups, amps, and effects it can be used to play any style of music from jazz to metal.
With the addition of single-coil and humbucker pickups, you can get a wide range of tones for solos, palm mutes and rhythmic chugging. The tremolo arm gives you access to speed-picking techniques and you can even set up a locking tremolo to stay in tune while going all-out with your solos.
If you’re looking to really shred and play metal, keep in mind that you’ll need an amp with a lot of power and some good distortion pedals to help get the right tones. Once you have the required gear, you’ll be able to play metal on a Stratocaster.
Is the Ibanez RG good for metal?
Yes, the Ibanez RG is known to be a great choice for metal music. Its thin neck profile and fast action allow for effortless shredding and sweep picking, and its extended pickup range offers a variety of options when it comes to getting that desired aggressive sound.
It’s equipped with two humbucker pickups, giving it heavy and thick basis needed to drive heavy metal. With the option to choose between single coil and humbucker configuration – in neck and bridge – with an extra middle pickup, you have a variety of options when it comes to finding the perfect tone for you.
The Ibanez RG is also equipped with a double locking tremolo bridge for extreme tuning stability, allowing for a wide range of technical playing styles. In addition, the hardware on the Ibanez RG is specifically designed to withstand the rigors of touring, ensuring it’ll last a long time.
All in all, the Ibanez RG makes a great choice for metal guitarists who want heavy and thick tones, fast action, and the ability to access a wide range of sounds.
What is special about Ibanez guitars?
Ibanez guitars are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship, and also for their innovation. Since the introduction of their original flat top guitar in 1935, Ibanez has been at the cutting edge in terms of design, offering a wide variety of body and hardware styles to suit players of all kinds.
Players especially praise Ibanez for their combination of affordability and quality, in comparison to many other brands.
One of the hallmarks of Ibanez guitars are their iconic thin necks, allowing your hands to quickly move up and down the fretboard. The slim, smooth neck allows for fast playing and perfect intonation, as well as greater comfort for players.
Ibanez is also known for their unique double locking tremolo systems, which allow for easier tuning access and a greater range of action for the string.
Many of Ibanez’s signature models are built with sophisticated electronics, perfect for recording and performing. They feature exquisitely-crafted pickups, from classic single-coil models to their signature humbuckers.
Many of their signature models also include specialized features such as coil-tapping, crunch switches, and more.
Ibanez also offer a great selection of instruments for beginners, many of which feature their iconic slim neck and classic hardware. These beginner models offer good quality at very affordable prices – a great way to get started on the guitar.
Overall, Ibanez guitars offer great quality with incredible playability and innovation, whilst being available in an array of models at very reasonable prices. These guitars are sought after by both beginners and experienced players alike, and are a great option for anyone looking for an instrument that is built with quality and attention-to-detail.
What does RG in Ibanez stand for?
RG stands for “Roadstar Guitar” which was a series of electric guitars made by Ibanez between 1987 and 1996. This series of guitars was designed to provide high-quality instruments at an affordable price point and included such models as the RG550, RG570, RG560, RG440, and RG350DX.
The design of the RG series heavily resembles the iconic shape of the Fender Stratocaster, but with distinct differences that make it unique to Ibanez. It has a deep double-cutaway body, flat top, dramatic bevels on the edge of the body, and a “shark fin” design on the lower bout.
The majority of RG models utilize the Ibanez Edge series of locking tremolo systems, making them immediately identifiable versus an ordinary Strat. Today, the RG series contains many different models of guitars that are perfect for hard rock, metal, and shred styles due to their unique construction and high-output pickups.
Is Ibanez owned by Gibson?
No, Ibanez is not owned by Gibson. Ibanez is owned by the Hoshino Gakki company, which is based in Japan. The company has its roots in the late 19th century and started producing guitars in the late 1930s.
Ibanez guitars have become a staple in rock music, particularly due to their innovative designs, high-quality construction, quality electronics, and affordable prices. Ibanez guitars are well known for their creative designs, in both classic and modern styles.
The company also produces other musical instruments such as bass guitars, amplifiers, and keyboards. In the US, Ibanez guitars are particularly popular with metal, hard rock, and punk rock players.