The Jackson American Series Virtuoso, as reviewed by Paul Riario and recently published on Guitar World, is an exemplar of American craftsmanship in the realm of electric guitars. This latest addition to the Jackson USA line stands out as a high-speed, bolt-on Superstrat that justifies its premium price tag with exceptional build quality and performance.
Pros:
- The Seymour Duncan pickups deliver a versatile sound palette, catering to both classic and heavy tones.
- Its construction is flawless, which reflects in its impeccable setup.
- Designed for speed, it’s a perfect match for guitarists with rapid playing styles.
- The Floyd Rose 1500 system guarantees precise tuning, a vital feature for serious guitarists.
Cons:
- Its high price point might be a barrier for some.
- Metal and progressive players might prefer guitars with active pickups over this model’s passive setup.
Guitar World’s expert reviewers, known for their rigorous testing methods, highlight the unique qualities of the Virtuoso. This guitar, a successor to the well-received American Series Soloist SL3, distinguishes itself with a dual-humbucker configuration and a bolt-on speed neck, as opposed to the SL3’s HSS pickup arrangement and neck-through-body design.
The Virtuoso, showcased in a promotional video featuring prominent metal artists, demonstrates its versatility across various shredding styles. Its allure lies not just in its high-octane performance capabilities but also in the tactile and sonic experience it offers. The guitar’s refined construction is evident in every detail, from its satin-finished alder body to its graphite-reinforced neck and streaked ebony fingerboard.
With over 150 hand-crafted details, the Virtuoso stands out for its precision and quality. Its bolt-on “speed neck” is a particular highlight, offering comfort and ease for fast playing and complex movements. The Seymour Duncan JB TB-4 and ’59 SH-1N humbuckers, along with the comprehensive control layout, offer a rich sonic palette.
The guitar’s aesthetics, especially the satin shell pink finish, have sparked diverse opinions, but the Virtuoso also offers more traditional finishes like satin black, mystic blue, and specific ocean.
In summary, the Jackson American Series Virtuoso is a high-end instrument that combines American-made quality with the needs of modern guitarists. While its price tag is steep, its performance and craftsmanship justify the investment for those seeking a top-tier guitar. This is a guitar designed to handle the rigors of fast playing, making it an ideal choice for those looking to “burn many fretboard miles.”