Sunday, November 21, 2010

Most Popular Guitars

By Adrianna Noton


Ever since the folk and rock explosion of the sixties, the guitar has become perhaps the world's most popular instrument. Lightweight and portable, and relatively easy to play basic chords, it's not hard to understand why so many people love it. When looking at the popularity of different models it's important to consider what type of songs you want to be playing. Even still, some guitars are exceptionally popular.

For blues and rock, the most popular guitars are the Fender Stratocaster and the Gibson Les Paul. Both guitars have been used by too many legends to name, and when deciding which to buy it's really a matter of personal preference. Fender's tend to have a nasty, raw edge, as demonstrated most notably by Jimi Hendrix. In fact, the model was going to be discontinued until Hendrix began playing one and made it famous. On the other hand, the Gibson Les Paul has been used under the same musical circumstances by hard rock legend Jimmy Page. The sound still has a crunch to it, but with a smoother, mellow edge. If sound is the biggest factor when choosing a guitar, feel has to be number two. Gibson necks in general tend to be a little wider. Both the Gibson les Paul and the SG models are extremely popular, and both exemplify the quality craftsmanship that has rightly put Gibson amongst the most respected guitar builders in the world. For those looking to try a far-out looking model, try the flying V! Those of you selecting Fender to sound like Hendrix should bear in mind that Jimi played a flying V and other Gibsons too.

Everyone loves an acoustic guitar around the campfire, and for decades everyone has wanted to be that guy playing. There are several acoustic guitars that make players around the world drool. The bread and butter for blues, finger-picking, and for singer song-writers alike is the Gibson J-45. They've been making them since the early 40's, and there's been no reason to mess with a success. For those who look at a guitar and can't readily see the difference, try listening to an average guitar followed by a J-45! Besides, they come in so many beautiful shades and bursts that they should be considered stunning by people who don't know guitars.

More traditional in appearance, but equally famous and popular, is the Martin dreadnought. Like its Gibson counterpart, these beastly guitars have been played by too many rock-stars to name. It's famous for its low, booming bass tones. There are many dreadnoughts to choose from which vary in types of wood, quality hardware, inlays, etc.

Aside from aesthetic features and the quality of the sound, the other necessary component of these guitars is the quality of the construction and the parts of which they're comprised. To be durable, a guitar needs a solid, reliable neck that won't warp. In order to stay in tune, a guitar needs to be able to remain solid despite the stress of the constantly pulling metal strings.

All the guitars above have gone above and beyond these requirements and it's no wonder that they're the most popular for professionals and casual guitar players alike.




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