10 Best Electric Guitars Under 1000 Dollars (2024) – Affordable Axes for the Aspiring Guitarist

This is my review of the best electric guitars under 1000 Dollars.

What did the guitarist say after buying a $999 guitar? “I just saved a grand!” Buying a guitar for under $1,000 is a long term investment. For this amount of money, you are buying an instrument that will last for years and years. Not a frivolous choice, but proof that you are serious about your guitar playing and your development as a guitarist. You have found your style and your niche, and you are now investing in your musical future.

For this price, there are many good-sounding guitars to be found. Manufacturers are constantly raising the bar, and this compitition leads to better and better guitars for your money. Most of the top brands that make guitars for the most expensive segment also make affordable guitars under $1000.

You probably know which corner to look in, but a little extra help never hurts, right? That’s why I’ve listed the 10 best electric guitars under $1000 for you. All the guitars in this list are high quality. Some are well below $1000, others are near this price. I did around 200 hours of research for this article and listed the best choices for each guitar type. I hope this serves your GuitarNeeds!

Top Picks: Best Electric Guitars Under 1000 Dollars

Our top 3 picks

Best overall

PRS SE Custom 24

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Best Telecaster

Fender Vintera ‘50s Telecaster

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Best Stratocaster

Fender Player Stratocaster

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Let’s have a look at some of the greatest guitars under $1000 on the market to see which one is ideal for you!

1. PRS SE Custom 24

Best Overall Electric Guitar Under 1000 Dollars

Price indication: $ 900

• Body: Mahogany
• Top: Maple with flamed maple veneer
• Fretboard: Rosewood
• Neck: Maple
• Fretboard inlays: Old school birds
• Neck profile: Wide thin
• Scale: 635 mm
• 24 Frets
• Pickups: 2x PRS TCI “S” humbuckers
• 1x Volume control
• 1x Tone control
• 2x Mini switches
• 3-Way toggle switch
• Nickel hardware
• PRS patented moulded tremolo
• PRS designed machine heads
• Colour: Vintage sunburst
• Includes PRS SE gig bag

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Body and neck

Since 1985, PRS has produced high-end electric guitars and has enjoyed tremendous success. The SE Custom 24 continues PRS’s tradition of excellent playability and fine craftsmanship. Regardless of your playing style, it’s a joy to play. If you need a trustworthy “do-it-all” guitar, whether you’re a bedroom guitarist or gigging musician, this one has you covered. It’s our best overall electric guitar available for around $1,000.

The South Korean-made PRS SE Custom has been in production since 2001. Mahogany and maple, a tried-and-true combination are used to make the body and produce a balanced tone with depth and personality. The guitar comes in different colors: Bonnie Pink, Charcoal Burst, Black Gold Burst and Faded Blue Burst. The lovely maple top’s wood grain can be seen through the beatutiful finishes. The Custom 24 SE is about 8 pounds in weight which makes it light enough to be carried for extended periods of time and also makes it less of a hassle when taking the guitar on the road.

The SE sports a 24 fret “Wide Thin” maple neck with PRS’ iconic bird inlays, as the name would imply. The SE Custom 24 offers players an incredibly comfortable ride because to its 25″ scale.

Playability

The body feels sturdy and is incredibly comfortable on the lap. Given the shape of the neck, the double cut away on this body is a very attractive feature. Concerns regarding playability and tuning stability are a thing of the past thanks to the PRS-designed hardware’s incredible solidity and smooth tremolo. The tuners are a set of PRS designed chrome die-cast tuners that feel wonderful and hold tune well, while the nut is constructed of synthetic material.

Electronics and hardware

Korean-made PRS 85/15s humbuckers are used in PRS SE Custom versions. These SE equivalents of the 85/15 “S” pickups found on USA models are coil splittable, and they live up to the hype, producing lovely clean tones as well as absurd gain and everything in between.

Sound

The sound produced by this PRS coil-split is a little thicker and warmer than that of a regular coil-split since 10% (neck) or 16% (bridge) of the other half of the humbucker is still present in the circuit. With a conventional coil-split, you will only hear the single coil sound and have one side of the humbucker completely disabled.

The guitar produces sounds that are excellent for jazz, blues, rock, and many other genres. It’s a wonderfully adaptable instrument. The great sustain from this guitar also has a lot to do with the craftsmanship of the body and (set-in) neck. The tone of the bridge pickup is ideal for blues and classic rock sounds since it has a delicate but sufficient midrange. The tone of the neck is more expressive, warm, and has a Gibson PAF-like character. Additionally the coil splits allow you access to a single coil sound similar to a Strat and a larger range of tones.

Customer reviews

Verdict

This is unquestionably one of the top PRS guitars that represents excellence. The Custom 24 SE is a winner, and you will this too once you possess it! You will find it difficult to put down and can be proud to own it. This instrument has the versatility that today’s players desire thanks to the PRS-designed tremolo and pull-pull pot that supports humbucker and single coil tones! The PRS SE Custom 24 is an excellent all-around instrument and a deal for the price of around $1000.

PRS SE Custom 24

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2. ESP LTD EC-1000

Best Electric Guitar For Metal Under 1000 Dollars

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Body and neck

The Japanese firm ESP was established in 1975. After guitarists like George Lynch and James Hatfield released their own ESP signature models, ESP became well-known and, in the early 2000s, one of the fastest-growing guitar manufacturers. Many guitarists from the hard rock and metal genres, like Jeff Hanneman of Slayer and David Mustaine of Megadeth, left Jackson to join ESP. They continue to be a leading manufacturer of guitars for hard rock and metal players.

The ESP LTD EC-1000 is a metal guitar that shares many qualities with the Les Paul.
It has a solid mahogany body, with the neck being made of three pieces of mahogany, just like a Les Paul. A rosewood fretboard with 24 extra-jumbo frets is mounted on the neck. It is designed to endure rough handling and can withstand extreme bending and shredding. The guitar is available in a number of finishes, so you can pick the one that most closely matches your personal taste. Because of its elegant gold hardware and satin-smooth finish, we really love the classic black version. The guitar also comes with a strap and protective case, making it simple to carry everywhere.

Playability

The LTD EC-1000’s narrow U-shaped neck profile makes it incredibly comfortable to hold and enables players to maneuver around and shred with ease. This guitar has TonePros Locking Tune-o-Matic bridge and LTD locking tuners for tuning stability because it was made to resist harsh playing.

Electronics and hardware

The EMG humbucking pick-ups on the ESP LTD Deluxe EC-1000 vintage black make the guitar articulate and forceful. The aggressive active EMG humbuckers on the EC-1000 are designed to produce maximum power. For the neck and bridge, it has EMG 60 and EMG 81 humbuckers, respectively. It contains a master tone knob to adjust the overall balance as well as two knobs to control the loudness of each pickup. The traditional three-way toggle switch to choose your pickup is also a characteristic of the EC-1000.

Sound

The LTD EC-1000’s sound features a strong distortion that is full of mids and basses. The hardcore bridge pickup can be used to play chunky rhythms, wailing harmonics, and shredding. The neck pickup can produce pristine clean tones as well as superb lead guitar soloing.

Customer reviews

Verdict

The ESP LTD EC-1000 is the shredding guitar you need for heavy rock or metal. It will be very hard to find a metal guitar in this price range with superior specs and sound. Money well spent is an understatement for this beast! We cannot praise ESP enough for hitting this home run.

ESP LTD EC-1000

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3. Fender Vintera ‘50s Telecaster

Best Telecaster Electric Guitar Under 1000 Dollars

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Body and neck

This guitar is for anyone who wants the look and sound of Fender’s golden age: the 50s. It’s the hero of Fender’s Vintera series, an accessible, high-quality homage to the instruments that started it all.

This Tele has an alder body and a bolt-on maple neck that deliver plenty of bite and snap. The maple fingerboard is radiused at a fairly traditional 7.25,” and the maple neck has the period-specific “Early ’50s U” contour. THe U profile neck is something that distinguishes out in comparison to any other modern versions.

Playability

The visceral, electric feeling of a direct main-line connection you get from a 1950s Vintera Telecaster is difficult to match. This guitar is fantastic. Compared to today’s slimmer necks, the U profile neck is significantly thicker and has a completely different playing feel that makes it much easier to dig into bends and vibratos.

Electronics and hardware

For this Tele, Fender reproduced their favorite set of ’50s pickups that have the distinctive “Tele” sound. The Vintera ’50s have the same antique tuning machinery, 3 saddle bridge with brass barrel saddles, and 1 ply pickguard as the original Telecasters.

Sound

It’s difficult to beat the clear, sharp, and succinct tones of a 1950s-style Telecaster bridge pickup connected directly into a powerful Fender combo amp. This is the real, unprocessed sound of primitive rock guitar. The Telecaster sound integrates incredibly well with genres like country, blues, rock and jazz. This guitar is ideal for achieving classic rock, vintage pop, and blues tones. The tone produced by the neck pickup is gentle and mellow, while the tone produced by the bridge pickup is bright yet significantly warmer.

Customer reviews

Customers generally provide positive reviews for the Fender Vintera ’50s Telecaster guitar. They appreciate its classic, vintage look and feel, as well as the build quality. The comfortable maple neck and vintage-style frets are praised for their playability, and the sound is described as bright, twangy, and full of character, reminiscent of the authentic ’50s Telecaster tone.

Some customers mention that the guitar may require a professional setup to achieve their preferred playing feel, but overall, the Fender Vintera ’50s Telecaster is highly recommended for those seeking a vintage-inspired Telecaster at an affordable price.

Verdict

There is no other Tele I would like to have for under a $1,000. This is a stunning and understated homage to the original Telecaster at an incredibly low cost.

Fender Vintera ‘50s Telecaster

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4. Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS02T

Best Solid-Body Electric Guitar Under 1000 Dollars

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Body and neck

The Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS02T features a sleek, double-cutaway body made of mahogany, providing a warm and resonant tone. The set-in mahogany neck is topped with a rosewood fingerboard, offering smooth playability and a rich tonal character. The guitar is finished in a variety of eye-catching colors, with a distinctive pickguard and body contours that set it apart from other models in its price range.

Playability

The Revstar RSS02T is known for its comfortable playing experience. The slim, C-shaped neck profile allows for easy chord transitions and fast lead playing, while the medium-jumbo frets and 13.75-inch fingerboard radius ensure accurate string bends and effortless playability. The double-cutaway design provides easy access to all 22 frets, making it ideal for guitarists who enjoy playing in the higher registers.

Electronics and hardware

Equipped with two Alnico V humbucking pickups, the Yamaha Revstar RSS02T delivers a powerful, well-rounded sound. The guitar’s electronics include a three-way pickup selector switch, master volume, and master tone control with a push-pull Dry Switch that cuts low frequencies for added clarity and definition. The hardware consists of a Tune-o-Matic bridge with a stopbar tailpiece, ensuring stable tuning and precise intonation, while the die-cast tuners provide reliable tuning stability.

Sound

The Yamaha Revstar RSS02T offers a versatile sound that suits a wide range of musical genres. The Alnico V humbuckers provide a balanced, warm tone with plenty of sustain, while the push-pull Dry Switch allows for greater tonal flexibility by offering a tighter, more focused sound. From clean, sparkling tones to crunchy overdrive and searing leads, the Revstar RSS02T is a sonic powerhouse.

Customer reviews

Many customers praise the Yamaha Revstar RSS02T for its unique design, excellent playability, and versatile sound. The build quality and attention to detail are often highlighted, as well as the guitar’s value for money. Some users have expressed their appreciation for the Dry Switch feature, which provides additional tonal options.

Verdict

The Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS02T is an excellent choice for guitarists seeking a unique, versatile, and well-built instrument at an affordable price. With its comfortable playability, powerful electronics, and stylish design, the RSS02T stands out as a fantastic option for players of all levels and styles.

Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS02T

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If you like this guitar, you may also be interested in this article:

• Yamaha Revstar 2022 Review – RSS20 and RSP02T

5. Gretsch Electromatic G5420

Best Hollow-Body Electric Guitar Under 1000 Dollars

• Construction: Hollowbody with single cut
• Body: Maple laminated with trestle block
• Body depth: 70 mm (2.75″)
• Maple neck
• Laurel fretboard
• Pearloid Neo-Classic thumbnail fretboard inlays
• Neck profile: Classic “C
• Nut width: 42.86 mm (1.6875″)
• Graph Tech NuBone nut
• 22 Medium jumbo frets
• Pickup: 2x FT-5E FilterTron humbuckers
• Volume control for neck pickup
• Volume control for bridge pickup
• Master volume control with treble bleed
• Master tone control
• Silver plexiglass pickguard with black Gretsch and Electromatic logos
• Adjusto-Matic bridge with secured Laurel base
• Bigsby B60
• Open vintage style tuners
• Nickel hardware
• Strings: .011 – .049
• Colour: Walnut Stain

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Body and neck

The Gretsch Electromatic G5420 features a fully hollow, single-cutaway body made of 5-ply maple, giving it a bright and resonant tone. The neck is also made of maple and is topped with a rosewood fingerboard, providing smooth playability and a warm tonal character. The guitar’s body is adorned with classic Gretsch details such as aged white binding, thumbnail inlays, and a striking finish, available in various colors, that accentuates its vintage aesthetic.

Playability

The G5420 offers a comfortable playing experience thanks to its slim “U”-shaped neck profile and medium-jumbo frets. The 12-inch fingerboard radius ensures easy string bends and accurate intonation, while the single-cutaway design provides access to all 22 frets. The guitar’s Adjusto-Matic bridge with a secured rosewood base and Graph Tech NuBone nut contribute to stable tuning and precise intonation, making it ideal for players of various styles.

Electronics and hardware

The Gretsch Electromatic G5420 is equipped with two Black Top Filter’Tron humbucking pickups that deliver a wide range of tonal possibilities. The guitar’s electronics include a three-way pickup selector switch, master volume control, master tone control, and independent volume controls for each pickup. The hardware consists of a Bigsby B60 vibrato tailpiece, which adds a touch of classic tremolo effect while maintaining tuning stability, and vintage-style open-back tuners.

Sound

The G5420 is known for its characteristic Gretsch tone, offering a crisp and well-defined sound with excellent clarity. The Black Top Filter’Tron pickups provide a balanced output, with sparkling highs, punchy mids, and tight lows, making it suitable for various musical genres, including rockabilly, jazz, blues, and country. The guitar’s hollow body construction adds a natural resonance and warmth to the overall sound.

Customer reviews

The Gretsch Electromatic G5420’s build quality and attention to detail are often highlighted, along with its value for money. Some users have expressed their appreciation for the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece, which adds to the guitar’s vintage appeal and functionality.

Verdict

he Gretsch Electromatic G5420 is an excellent choice for guitarists seeking a classic-looking, versatile, and well-built instrument. With its comfortable playability, iconic design, and distinct Gretsch tone, the G5420 is a fantastic option for players who appreciate vintage-inspired guitars with modern performance.

Gretsch Electromatic G5420

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6. Fender Player Stratocaster

Best Stratocaster Electric Guitar Under 1000 Dollars

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Body and neck

The Player Plus Stratocaster HSS features a solid alder body with the classic Stratocaster shape, known for its balanced tone and comfortable contours. The bolt-on maple neck is topped with a pau ferro fingerboard, offering a smooth playing surface and a warm tonal character. The guitar is available in a variety of eye-catching finishes, with a modern pickguard design that sets it apart from traditional Stratocasters.

Playability

The Fender Player Plus Stratocaster HSS is designed with comfort and playability in mind. The modern “C”-shaped neck profile provides a comfortable grip, while the 12-inch fingerboard radius and medium-jumbo frets ensure effortless playability and precise intonation. The double-cutaway body design allows for easy access to all 22 frets, making it ideal for players who enjoy exploring the full range of the fingerboard.

Electronics and hardware

The Player Plus Stratocaster HSS is equipped with a versatile pickup configuration, featuring a Player Plus Noiseless humbucking pickup in the bridge position and two Player Plus Noiseless single-coil pickups in the middle and neck positions. This setup provides a wide range of tonal options, from powerful humbucker tones to classic Stratocaster chime. The guitar’s electronics include a five-way pickup selector switch, master volume control, and two tone controls. The hardware consists of a 2-point synchronized tremolo bridge for smooth vibrato effects and precise tuning stability, along with sealed locking tuners for quick and easy string changes.

Sound

The Fender Player Plus Stratocaster HSS delivers a diverse array of tones, suitable for various music genres. The Noiseless pickups provide a hum-free performance, with a powerful, well-defined sound from the humbucker and the classic, bell-like tones of the single-coil pickups. The five-way pickup selector switch allows for a wide range of sonic possibilities, making this guitar ideal for players who need versatility in their sound.

Customer reviews

The build quality and attention to detail of the Fender Player Plus Stratocaster HSS are often highlighted, as well as the guitar’s value for money. Some users have expressed their appreciation for the Noiseless pickups, which eliminate hum without sacrificing the traditional Stratocaster tone.

Verdict

The Fender Player Plus Stratocaster HSS is an excellent choice for guitarists seeking a versatile, well-built instrument with a modern twist on the iconic Stratocaster design. With its comfortable playability, powerful electronics, and contemporary aesthetics, the Player Plus Stratocaster HSS is a fantastic option for players of all levels and styles who require a wide range of tonal possibilities.

Fender Player Stratocaster

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7. Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard

Best Les Paul Electric Guitar Under 1000 Dollars

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Body and neck

The Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard features a solid mahogany body with a AAA flame maple veneer top, providing a warm and resonant tone with a visually stunning finish. The glued-in mahogany neck is topped with an Indian laurel fingerboard, offering a smooth playing surface and a warm tonal character. The guitar’s body and neck are adorned with aged binding, trapezoid inlays, and a vintage-style headstock, capturing the aesthetic of the 1959 original.

Playabity

The 1959 Les Paul Standard offers a comfortable playing experience, thanks to its ’59 Rounded Medium C neck profile that is well-suited for both rhythm and lead playing. The 12-inch fingerboard radius and medium-jumbo frets ensure accurate intonation and easy string bends. The single-cutaway body design provides access to all 22 frets, making it ideal for players who enjoy exploring the full range of the fingerboard.

Electronics and hardware

The Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard is equipped with two Burstbucker pickups that deliver the classic PAF humbucker tone, reminiscent of the original 1959 Les Paul. The guitar’s electronics include a three-way pickup selector switch, two volume controls, and two tone controls with CTS potentiometers for smooth and accurate control. The hardware consists of a LockTone ABR bridge and a stopbar tailpiece, ensuring stable tuning and precise intonation, while the vintage-style tuners provide reliable tuning stability.

Sound

The 1959 Les Paul Standard offers a rich, vintage tone that is well-suited for various music genres, from blues and jazz to rock and hard rock. The Burstbucker pickups provide a well-balanced output, with a warm and full sound that retains excellent clarity and definition. The guitar’s mahogany body and maple top contribute to its warm, resonant character, making it a great choice for players who appreciate the classic Les Paul sound.

Customer reviews

Many customers praise the Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard for its authentic design, comfortable playability, and vintage tone. Some users have expressed their appreciation for the Burstbucker pickups, which capture the classic PAF humbucker sound.

Verdict

The Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard is an excellent choice for guitarists seeking an authentic recreation of the iconic 1959 Les Paul at an affordable price. With its comfortable playability, vintage tone, and classic design, the 1959 Les Paul Standard is a fantastic option for players who appreciate the timeless appeal of the original Les Paul guitars.

Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard

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8. Ibanez RG550

Best Schred Guitar Under 1000 Dollars

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Body and neck

The Ibanez RG550 features a lightweight basswood body that offers a balanced tonal response, making it suitable for various music genres. Its Super Wizard 5-piece maple and walnut neck is topped with a 24-fret maple fingerboard, which not only provides a bright and snappy tone but also allows for smooth and fast playing. The guitar’s body and neck are adorned with eye-catching sharktooth inlays and a striking Ibanez headstock design.

Playabity

The RG550 is designed with playability in mind, featuring a slim, flat Super Wizard neck profile that allows for fast and comfortable playing, especially for those who prefer shredding and technical styles. The jumbo frets and 17-inch fingerboard radius provide easy string bending and accurate intonation. The double-cutaway body design ensures excellent access to the higher frets, making it ideal for lead players.

Electronics and hardware

The Ibanez RG550 is equipped with a versatile HSH (humbucker-single-humbucker) pickup configuration, featuring V7 and V8 humbuckers in the neck and bridge positions, and an S1 single-coil pickup in the middle position. The guitar’s electronics include a five-way pickup selector switch, a master volume control, and a master tone control, allowing for a wide range of tonal options. The Edge tremolo bridge system provides excellent tuning stability and allows for expressive vibrato effects, while the Gotoh machine heads ensure reliable tuning.

Sound

The Ibanez RG550 offers a wide range of tonal possibilities, making it suitable for various music genres, from metal and rock to blues and fusion. The V7 and V8 humbuckers deliver a powerful and punchy tone with excellent clarity and definition, while the S1 single-coil pickup provides a bright and snappy sound. The guitar’s basswood body and maple neck contribute to its overall balanced and responsive tone.

Customer reviews

Many customers have expressed their appreciation for the Super Wizard neck profile, which allows for fast and effortless playing.

Verdict

The Ibanez RG550 is an excellent choice for guitarists looking for a versatile instrument with exceptional playability and a sleek design. Its HSH pickup configuration and Super Wizard neck profile make it a perfect choice for shredders and metal players, while its reliable hardware and overall build quality ensure that it will stand up to the rigors of regular use. Overall, the RG550 is a fantastic option for those who want a high-quality guitar without breaking the bank.

Ibanez RG550

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9. Sterling by Music Man JP150

Best John Petrucci Collaboration Electric Guitar Under 1000 Dollars

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Body and neck

The JP150 features a sleek, double-cutaway mahogany body with a striking quilted maple veneer top. The body’s contours not only add to its visual appeal but also provide enhanced comfort and playability. The guitar’s neck is made of roasted maple, which is both stable and resonant. The 24-fret fingerboard is also constructed from roasted maple and features custom JP shield inlays, adding a touch of class to this already eye-catching instrument.

Playabity

The JP150 shines when it comes to playability. The neck’s slim profile, combined with a 16-inch fingerboard radius, allows for fast and effortless movement across the entire fretboard. The medium jumbo frets are well-dressed and contribute to the overall smooth playing experience. The guitar’s deep cutaways grant easy access to higher frets, making it perfect for intricate lead playing and complex chord voicings.

Electronics and hardware

This guitar comes equipped with Sterling by Music Man designed humbucking pickups, which offer a versatile range of tones suitable for various musical genres. The controls include a master volume, master tone, and a 3-way pickup selector switch, providing simplicity in operation. The master tone control also features a push/pull coil-tap, offering players the ability to access single-coil tones.

The JP150 boasts a modern tremolo bridge that ensures excellent tuning stability and sustain, even with heavy use of the tremolo arm. The locking tuners further enhance tuning stability, making this guitar a reliable choice for live performances and studio sessions alike.

Sound

The Sterling by Music Man JP150 delivers a diverse range of tones, making it suitable for multiple genres. The humbucking pickups provide a warm, full-bodied sound, perfect for overdriven and distorted tones. When the coil-tap is engaged, the guitar can produce bright and snappy single-coil tones, ideal for clean or lightly overdriven sounds. The overall sonic versatility makes this guitar a great option for players who enjoy exploring various musical styles.

Customer reviews

Many users have praised the JP150 for its exceptional playability, with the slim neck profile and well-dressed frets being frequently mentioned. Customers also appreciate the guitar’s aesthetics, highlighting the quilted maple veneer top and unique JP shield inlays. Some players have noted that the stock pickups may not cater to all tastes, but they can be easily replaced with other humbuckers for a more personalized sound.

Verdict

The Sterling by Music Man JP150 is an excellent choice for players seeking a versatile, visually striking, and highly playable guitar. With its diverse tonal capabilities and top-notch hardware, this instrument is well-suited for both stage and studio use. While the stock pickups might not cater to everyone’s preferences, the overall quality and performance of the JP150 make it a worthy investment for any guitarist.

Sterling by Music Man JP150

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10. Schecter Omen Extreme-6

Best Eye-Catching Electric Guitar Under 1000 Dollars For The Modern Player

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Body and neck

The Schecter Omen Extreme-6 features a mahogany body with a stunning quilted maple top, providing a warm and resonant tone with a touch of brightness. The bolt-on maple neck is topped with a 24-fret rosewood fingerboard and features eye-catching vector inlays. The guitar’s double-cutaway body shape allows for comfortable playing and easy access to the higher frets.

Playabity

The Omen Extreme-6 offers excellent playability, thanks to its slim, C-shaped neck profile and 14-inch fingerboard radius. The guitar’s extra-jumbo frets provide easy string bending and accurate intonation, while the ergonomic body contours ensure a comfortable playing experience. The double-cutaway design allows for excellent access to the higher frets, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead players.

Electronics and hardware

The Schecter Omen Extreme-6 is equipped with two high-output Schecter Diamond Plus humbuckers in the neck and bridge positions. The electronics include a three-way pickup selector switch, a master volume control, a master tone control, and a push/pull coil-split function, providing a wide range of tonal possibilities. The guitar’s tune-o-matic bridge with a string-through-body design ensures excellent tuning stability and sustain, while the Schecter tuners provide reliable tuning.

Sound

The Omen Extreme-6 offers a versatile sound that can cater to various music genres, from rock and metal to blues and jazz. The mahogany body and maple top contribute to a warm, resonant tone with a touch of brightness, while the high-output humbuckers provide excellent clarity and definition. The push/pull coil-split function allows for additional tonal options, from bright and snappy single-coil sounds to thick and powerful humbucker tones.

Customer reviews

Users often highlight the guitar’s build quality, attention to detail, and overall value for money. Some players have expressed their appreciation for the comfortable neck profile and ergonomic body shape, which allow for extended playing sessions without fatigue.

Verdict

The Schecter Omen Extreme-6 is a fantastic option for guitarists seeking a versatile, high-quality instrument with an eye-catching design. With its slim, C-shaped neck profile, ergonomic body shape, and coil-split functionality, the Omen Extreme-6 caters to a wide range of playing styles and genres. Overall, it’s a great choice for those who want an affordable and reliable guitar that doesn’t compromise on sound or aesthetics.

Schecter Omen Extreme-6

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FAQ’s: Buying an Electric Guitar Under $1000

Finding the perfect electric guitar can be a daunting task, especially when you’re working with a budget. However, you don’t need to break the bank to get a high-quality instrument that suits your needs. This guide will help you navigate the process of selecting and buying the best electric guitar under $1000 by answering some frequently asked questions.

1. What factors should I consider when choosing an electric guitar?

When selecting an electric guitar, consider factors such as body style, tonewood, neck profile, fretboard material, scale length, pickup configuration, hardware, and overall build quality. Your personal taste, playing style, and preferred music genre will also play a significant role in your decision-making process.

2. How important is the guitar’s body style?

The guitar’s body style can significantly impact its tone, playability, and aesthetics. Solid-body guitars typically offer a more focused and sustained sound, while hollow and semi-hollow body guitars provide a warmer, more resonant tone. The shape and size of the guitar body also affect its ergonomics, so make sure the guitar you choose is comfortable to play.

3. Which tonewoods should I look for?

The choice of tonewood can greatly influence the sound and resonance of an electric guitar. Commonly used tonewoods for the body include alder, mahogany, and basswood, which produce well-balanced, warm, and bright tones, respectively. For necks, maple is a popular choice for its bright tone and stability. Fingerboard materials such as rosewood, pau ferro, and ebony can also impact the guitar’s overall tone and playability.

4. What is the difference between various neck profiles?

Neck profiles determine the shape and thickness of the guitar’s neck and can affect your playing comfort. Common neck profiles include C, U, and V shapes, each with different thicknesses and curvatures. Choose a neck profile that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your playing style.

5. Should I choose a fixed bridge or a tremolo bridge?

The type of bridge on a guitar can impact its tuning stability and the ability to add vibrato effects. Fixed bridges, such as the Tune-o-Matic or hardtail, offer better tuning stability and more precise intonation. Tremolo bridges, like the Floyd Rose or Fender’s synchronized tremolo, allow for expressive vibrato effects but may require more maintenance and can be more challenging to set up.

6. What pickup configuration should I choose?

Pickup configuration is crucial in determining the guitar’s tonal versatility. Single-coil pickups produce a bright, crisp sound, while humbuckers deliver a warmer, thicker tone. A common configuration is the HSS (humbucker-single-single) setup, which offers a wide range of tonal possibilities. Consider the type of music you want to play and choose a pickup configuration that suits your needs.

7. How can I ensure the guitar has good build quality?

Look for reputable brands that are known for producing high-quality instruments, such as Fender, Gibson, Epiphone, Ibanez, Yamaha, and PRS. Check for proper fretwork, smooth neck joints, reliable hardware, and a well-finished body. It’s always best to try the guitar in person if possible, but if you’re buying online, read customer reviews and check for a good return policy.

8. Should I buy a new or used guitar?

Both new and used guitars have their advantages. New guitars typically come with a warranty and are free from wear and tear, while used guitars can offer significant savings and may already have some desirable upgrades. If buying used, inspect the instrument carefully for any damage or issues, and make sure it has been well-maintained. Buying from a reputable seller or music store can also provide some peace of mind when purchasing a used guitar.

9. Do I need to set a budget for additional gear and accessories?

When purchasing a guitar, don’t forget to consider the cost of essential accessories and gear. Items such as a guitar case or gig bag, strap, picks, cables, an amplifier, a tuner, and a capo may be necessary, depending on your needs. Set aside a portion of your budget to cover these additional expenses.

10. How do I know if the guitar is the right fit for me?

The most important aspect of selecting a guitar is how it feels in your hands and how comfortable it is to play. The guitar’s neck profile, body shape, and weight should feel natural and suit your playing style. Ultimately, trust your instincts, and choose a guitar that inspires you to play and create music.

Conclusion

Selecting and buying the best electric guitar under $1000 may seem challenging, but with careful consideration of factors such as body style, tonewood, neck profile, pickups, and hardware, you can find the perfect instrument for your needs. Don’t forget to set aside a budget for additional gear and accessories and, most importantly, choose a guitar that feels right and inspires you to play.

Happy guitar hunting!