The 1980s was a decade of great innovation in the world of electric guitars. With the rise of new technology and a focus on high-energy, electrified rock and metal music, guitar manufacturers were able to push the boundaries of what was possible with the instrument. In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the best electric guitars of the 80s.
Ibanez RG Series
The Ibanez RG series was introduced in the late 80s and quickly became a favorite of shredders and heavy metal guitarists. With its thin, fast neck and versatile pickups, the RG series was designed to handle the high-speed, technical playing styles that were popular at the time.
Kramer Baretta
The Kramer Baretta was a staple of the 80s hard rock scene, with its distinctive pointy headstock and aggressive sound. The guitar was popularized by virtuosos like Eddie Van Halen and George Lynch, and its sleek design and powerful humbucker pickups helped to define the sound of the era.
Fender Stratocaster Plus
The Fender Stratocaster Plus was introduced in 1987 and quickly became a popular choice for guitarists looking for a modern take on a classic design. The guitar featured an updated, high-tech locking tremolo system and noiseless pickups, making it a versatile and reliable option for players of all styles.
Gibson Explorer
The Gibson Explorer was originally introduced in the late 50s, but it saw a resurgence in popularity during the 80s thanks to its bold, angular design and powerful sound. The guitar was favored by heavy metal players like James Hetfield of Metallica, who helped to cement its place as an iconic instrument of the era.
Charvel Model Series
The Charvel Model series was a favorite of guitarists like Steve Vai and Eddie Van Halen, thanks to its high-quality construction and versatile tone. The guitars were known for their distinctive, striped paint jobs and unique features like the scalloped fretboards on some models.
In conclusion, the 80s was a decade of great innovation and experimentation in the world of electric guitars, and these instruments helped to shape the sound of rock and metal music for years to come. From the high-speed playing of the Ibanez RG series to the bold design of the Gibson Explorer, these guitars are a testament to the creative spirit of the era.