Electric guitar enthusiasts are always on the lookout for the next innovation, the instrument that redefines playability and tone. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend an exclusive event at the renowned Music Emporium, and it was there I encountered a brand that’s poised to make waves in the electric guitar world with its Power Electric Guitar designs. While the brand operates independently, keen eyes might recognize familiar faces from Taylor Guitars, hinting at a shared lineage of quality and craftsmanship. This wasn’t just another guitar launch; it was an unveiling of a meticulously crafted instrument designed for the modern player.
Immaculate Build Quality and Design: A Nod to Excellence
From the moment I picked up these guitars, the commitment to impeccable quality was undeniable. Reminiscent of the high standards set by Taylor, the build quality was flawless. Every edge was perfectly finished, the fretboards were pristine with substantial frets and expertly treated ends. The fretboard even featured a subtle wood binding, seamlessly integrated in a way that speaks to high-end craftsmanship. String spacing was ideal, and the nuts were precisely cut. What was most striking was the consistency across different guitars – each one felt remarkably similar, a hallmark often associated with Taylor’s precision manufacturing. The aesthetic, however, takes a bold departure from traditional Taylor designs. These guitars boast a curvy, contemporary look with vibrant, candy-like colors. While undeniably appealing, I initially wondered if this aesthetic would resonate with players across all genres, particularly those in heavier music styles. Interestingly, I was informed that several prominent metal players have already embraced these instruments, suggesting their versatility might be broader than initially perceived.
Innovative Pickups for Exceptional Sound
The heart of any power electric guitar lies in its pickups, and this new brand doesn’t disappoint. Featuring single-coil pickups in two variations – one with a “partial faraday cage” and another “FF” version – these guitars deliver a remarkably quiet performance for single coils. In fact, they were noticeably quieter than even G&L MFD pickups, which are known for their low noise. Examining the pickups outside of the guitars revealed their intricate machined aluminum housings, a testament to the high production costs and dedication to quality. Sonically, the pickups are not about overwhelming power; instead, they offer a balanced, “goldilocks” quality that is incredibly pleasing. While some players might desire a hotter bridge pickup, the stock setup provides a versatile and articulate tone. Experimenting with pickup heights would likely unlock even more sonic nuances to suit individual preferences.
Lightweight and Comfortable Playability: Designed for Performance
One of the most surprising aspects of these power electric guitars is their incredibly light weight. Being almost entirely hollow, they defy expectations. Despite their solid-body appearance, they feel akin to acoustic guitars in terms of weight, making them exceptionally comfortable for extended playing sessions. I had the chance to test both hardtail and tremolo bridge versions. The hardtail model felt remarkably slinky, though this could have been influenced by the specific setup. The tremolo bridge, however, was a standout feature. Its stiffness contributes to incredible tuning stability, even when performing deep string bends that would typically throw other tremolo systems out of tune. The whammy bar is notably stiffer than most, although I learned that different spring options are available for customization. Despite rigorous attempts to induce tuning instability, the bridge held firm, showcasing its innovative design and reliability. Adding to the unique bridge design is an acoustic-style saddle attachment, available in various materials like synthetic, metal, and even ebony, each subtly influencing the guitar’s tonal character. For the pickup configuration, a metal saddle seemed like a particularly intriguing option to explore.
Unique Neck and Customization Options: Tailored to the Player
The neck profile is another area where this brand showcases thoughtful design. The compound radius, flatter on the bridge side and slightly rounder towards the nut, is a welcome feature for enhanced playability across the fretboard. The neck itself is thicker than what I typically prefer, catering to players who favor a chunkier feel. While not a shred-style neck, I experienced zero fatigue even after extended playing time, indicating a comfortable and ergonomic design. Importantly, all necks currently share the same profile, ensuring consistency across the range. Beyond the standard models, the brand emphasizes customization. They offer a vast palette of colors and are open to working with players on custom orders, suggesting a high degree of personalization is possible, particularly in terms of aesthetics. Andy Powers himself, in a video call, highlighted his continued hands-on involvement in the production process, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to quality and detail, especially given their relatively small production numbers compared to Taylor. Adding to the buzz, Andy Summers reportedly acquired a yellow model and immediately took it on stage, further cementing the brand’s appeal to discerning musicians.
Final Thoughts: A Powerful New Contender
While positioned at a premium price point, these power electric guitars offer a compelling package of exceptional build quality, innovative design, and impressive sonic capabilities. They cater to players who appreciate meticulous craftsmanship, a distinctive aesthetic, and a versatile instrument that can span genres. Though I wasn’t in the market for a new guitar myself, my experience left a lasting impression. This new brand, with its Taylor-linked expertise, is undoubtedly one to watch in the power electric guitar landscape.
