The Jackson Rhoads guitar. Just the name conjures images of legendary metal guitarists shredding on stage, their axes screaming with power and precision. Born from a napkin sketch and a visionary collaboration, the Rhoads model isn’t just a guitar; it’s a symbol of innovation, rebellion, and the relentless pursuit of sonic perfection in the world of heavy music. This iconic instrument not only cemented the legacy of its co-creator, the brilliant Randy Rhoads, but also propelled Jackson Guitars to the forefront of high-performance guitar manufacturing.
From Concept to Creation: The Birth of the Concorde
In the nascent days of his solo career, after departing Quiet Riot and joining forces with Ozzy Osbourne, Randy Rhoads sought a guitar as unique and groundbreaking as his playing. Inspired by the innovative designs emerging from Charvel, a company making waves with “shred-friendly” guitars, Rhoads approached Grover Jackson, the company’s new owner. Armed with initial sketches, Randy envisioned a radical departure from traditional guitar shapes.
Randy’s original concept, dubbed “The Concorde” after the supersonic jet, was indeed audacious. It fused elements of the Flying V with a sharp, shark-fin-like edge, resulting in an asymmetrical body that was both visually striking and ergonomically designed for high-performance playing. While Grover Jackson recognized the brilliance of the design, he also understood the potential risk of alienating Charvel’s existing customer base with such a drastic shape. A pivotal decision was made: the guitar would bear the Jackson name, marking the birth of a new brand dedicated to pushing the boundaries of guitar design.
Through iterative refinements and feedback from Randy, the Concorde took shape. This collaborative process ensured the final product was not just visually stunning but also perfectly tailored to Randy’s demanding playing style and sonic preferences.
Defining Features of a Legend: Design and Construction
The Jackson Rhoads guitar quickly became synonymous with several key features that set it apart and contributed to its legendary status:
- Radical Body Shape: The asymmetrical, V-shaped body, often described as a “shark fin,” is instantly recognizable and embodies the aggressive aesthetic of heavy metal.
- Neck-Through-Body Construction: Higher-end Rhoads models feature neck-through-body construction, where the neck extends through the entire body of the guitar. This design maximizes sustain and resonance, crucial for the long, soaring notes favored by metal players.
- High-Output Pickups: Equipped with powerful humbucking pickups, often from Seymour Duncan or EMG, Rhoads guitars are designed to deliver a thick, aggressive tone perfect for high-gain amplification and heavy rock genres.
- Pro-Level Hardware: From Floyd Rose tremolo systems for extreme whammy bar acrobatics to quality tuning machines, Rhoads guitars are built with professional-grade hardware to withstand the rigors of demanding performance.
Exploring the Jackson Rhoads Family: Models for Every Player
The enduring popularity of the Rhoads design has led to a diverse range of models catering to various budgets and playing styles. Here’s a glimpse into the Jackson Rhoads lineup:
- JS Series (JS32 Rhoads): For players seeking the iconic Rhoads vibe without breaking the bank, the JS Series offers exceptional value. The JS32, for example, features a lightweight alder body, a fast maple neck with a compound radius fretboard for comfortable shredding, and Jackson high-output humbuckers. A Floyd Rose licensed tremolo adds to its hard rock credentials. This series provides an accessible entry point into the world of Rhoads guitars.
- X Series (RR24XT, RRXMG): Stepping up in features and performance, the X Series Rhoads guitars deliver professional quality at a mid-range price. Models like the RR24XT boast neck-through construction for enhanced sustain and Duncan Designed humbuckers for powerful tone. The RRXMG takes it further with active EMG humbuckers for extreme output and a Floyd Rose Special tremolo, ideal for players who demand maximum aggression and sustain.
- Pro Series (RRMG Pro, RRTMG Pro): The Pro Series Rhoads guitars are designed for serious musicians seeking top-tier performance and refined features. The RRMG Pro often features a stunning quilt maple top and direct-mount EMG pickups for articulate and powerful tones. The RRTMG Pro elevates playability with a 3-piece maple neck with graphite reinforcement and hand-rubbed oil finish, paired with screaming EMG pickups and a TonePros Tune-O-Matic bridge for rock-solid tuning stability.
- USA Select Series (RR1): The pinnacle of the Rhoads family, the USA Select Series RR1 is handcrafted in the USA to the highest standards. Featuring neck-through construction, an ebony fretboard with mother-of-pearl sharkfin inlays, premium Seymour Duncan humbuckers, and an Original Floyd Rose tremolo, the RR1 represents the ultimate expression of the Jackson Rhoads design, delivering unparalleled tone, playability, and craftsmanship.
Unleash Your Inner Shredder: The Rhoads Legacy Continues
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an aspiring guitarist ready to embark on your metal journey, the Jackson Rhoads guitar offers a powerful combination of iconic design, high-performance features, and a legacy forged in the fires of rock and roll history. From affordable models that capture the essence of the Rhoads spirit to top-of-the-line instruments built for uncompromising performance, there’s a Jackson Rhoads guitar to fuel your musical ambitions and help you take your playing to the next level. Explore the range and discover the axe that will set you on your own crazy train to guitar greatness.
