Key takeaway: A Floyd Rose-equipped electric guitar enhances musical versatility with superior tuning stability and dynamic range. Whether you're a beginner or professional, understanding its mechanics and brands can significantly improve your playing experience and allow for creative expression in various genres.
Are you a fan of heavy metal and hard rock music? Then, an electric guitar with a Floyd Rose bridge might just be the perfect instrument for you. This type of guitar is known for its ability to produce aggressive and intense tones, making it a popular choice among musicians who love to play fast-paced and energetic songs.
In this article, we will dive into the world of electric guitars with Floyd Rose bridges. We will discuss the best brands available in the market and answer some common questions about modding non-Floyd Rose guitars into ones with this iconic bridge.
Whether you’re a local resident looking for a new hobby or a cultural enthusiast looking to expand your musical knowledge, this article is for you.
Best Electric Guitars with a Floyd Rose
When it comes to electric guitars with a Floyd Rose bridge, there are several brands that stand out from the rest. These guitars not only offer excellent sound quality but also provide great playability and durability.
Here are some of the best electric guitars with Floyd Rose bridges that you should consider if you’re looking to upgrade your instrument:
Jackson Soloist SLX
The Jackson Soloist SLX is a popular choice among metal and hard rock guitarists. It features a fast-playing maple neck, 24 jumbo frets, and an alder body for maximum sustain and resonance.
The Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo system allows for precise tuning and extreme whammy bar action, perfect for those dive bombs and squeals.
Ibanez RG550
Another top contender in the electric guitar with a Floyd Rose market is the Ibanez RG550. This iconic model has been around since the late 1980s and is still a favourite among shredders today.
It boasts a basswood body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard that produces bright tones with excellent sustain. The Edge tremolo bridge on this guitar offers smooth and stable tuning while allowing for wild whammy bar tricks.
ESP LTD M-1000HT
For those who prefer a heavier and darker tone, the ESP LTD M-1000HT might just be the perfect choice. This guitar features an alder body, maple neck, and ebony fretboard for a solid feel and aggressive sound.
The Floyd Rose Original bridge on this model provides exceptional tuning stability even with intense dive bomb techniques.
Common Floyd Rose Brands
Aside from the three mentioned above, there are also other brands that offer electric guitars with Floyd Rose bridges. Some popular options include Schecter, Dean Guitars, Charvel, and Kramer. Each brand has its own unique design and sound characteristics, so it’s best to try out different models before making a purchase.
It’s also worth noting that some guitar manufacturers offer licensed Floyd Rose bridges, which are more affordable alternatives to the original ones. These include models from Fender and Squier, among others.
While they may not have the same quality as the originals, these licensed bridges still provide great functionality at a lower price point.
Possible to Mod a Non-Floyd Rose Guitar?
One common question among guitar enthusiasts is whether it’s possible to modify a non-Floyd Rose guitar into one with this iconic bridge. The answer is yes, but it requires some technical skills and knowledge about guitars.
The most common way to mod a non-Floyd Rose guitar is by installing a tremolo system on it. This process involves routing the guitar body to accommodate the bridge and installing new hardware. While it may seem straightforward, it’s best to have a professional do the job to ensure proper installation and avoid any damage to your instrument.
Another option is to purchase a Floyd Rose retrofit system that allows you to convert your non-Floyd Rose guitar into one with this bridge without any modifications. However, these kits can be quite expensive and may not fit all types of guitars.
FAQs
What is the main advantage of an electric guitar with a Floyd Rose bridge?
One of the main advantages is its ability to maintain tuning stability even with extreme whammy bar use.
Can I use a Floyd Rose bridge for all types of music?
While it’s commonly used in heavy metal and hard rock, you can still use a Floyd Rose bridge for other genres as long as you’re comfortable with its playability.
Are there any downsides to having a Floyd Rose bridge on my guitar?
Some people find the process of changing strings and tuning tedious due to the double-locking system of the Floyd Rose bridge. It also requires some technical knowledge when it comes to adjusting the tension on the springs.
Conclusion: electric guitar with floyd rose
Electric guitars with Floyd Rose bridges offer a unique playing experience that is perfect for those who love intense and aggressive music. With so many brands and options available, it’s essential to do your research and try out different models before making a purchase.
And if you’re looking to upgrade your current guitar, don’t forget to consider the possibility of modding it into one with a Floyd Rose bridge. Happy rocking! So what are you waiting for? Start exploring the world of electric guitars with a Floyd Rose bridge and unleash your inner rockstar today!