A quick rundown on guitars based on my limited playing experience:
- The Gibson Les Paul is the must-have. And I’m fortunate enough to have one in the Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Pro of 1979 (and yes, a Norlin guitar can be great too). Her build quality and sound are unbeatable. I plan to get a Gibson Les Paul Studio that can sufficiently replace the Deluxe Pro (I hope).
- Semi-hollow or hollow body? The Gretsch G5420T didn’t satisfy me but the Epiphone Casino Coupe still do simply ‘cos of her very lower price point. Besides she sounds great too. It will be hard to find another semi-hollow or hollow body to replace the Coupe.
- Most electric guitarists love the Stratocaster. I have tried to like it. I even have a James Tyler Classic Stratocaster. But still, I do not enjoy the single coil as much. Yet, I have a ultra cheap Squier Bullet Stratocaster. I will keep her and tell the world I have a strat.
- I probably need to keep a precision bass. I’m still trying to sell my refinished 1974 Fender Precision Bass to release some funds. Then, I will get a Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Precision Bass for her single coil and vintage look.
- I like the look of a Fender Jaguar. I have my eyes on an AVRI Fender Jaguar. I will have to test her sound. If the Jaguar sound isn’t right for me, I will get a Squier Bass VI which sports the Jaguar appearance.
- If the Squier Jazzmaster can sound that good, I believe the Fender Jazzmaster will be music to my ears. Yet there are builders out there making their versions of the Jazzmaster. It’s possible I will get the original or the lookalike ones.
- Many PRS guitars look gorgeous and sound wonderful. Yet, I suspect I will not enjoy any of them (my CE and SEs can vouch for that). Maybe if I can get hold of the baritone SE 277, I will have a PRS in my arsenal.
- Boutique guitars are high-end for their build quality and attention to details. I have had the privilege of owning a James Tyler. However, I could not bond with her. I used to think I wanted a Tom Anderson and many others love Suhr. But my James Tyler experience is preventing me from pursuing them now. The situation may still change.
- Ernie Ball Music Man and their Majesty appeal to me. I just need to try the sound to ascertain if I need to get an EBMM.
- The venerable Telecaster should be in my keeps, but I haven’t pursued the Fender Telecaster aggressively. Perhaps, most of them look too clean in their design.