What does signature guitar mean?

Signature guitars are simply guitars that are either replicas of an artist’s guitar or designed in conjunction with them. These are authorised models and often sport the artist’s signature - hence the name. These can be collectable limited edition guitars or affordable mass-produced models.

Are signature guitars worth it?

There are a couple of different categories of signature guitars. Some, made by Custom Shops, are rare collector’s items. These do go up in value over time so from that perspective they are worth it. For everyone else, signature guitars are worth it for a different reason: they are designed in close collaboration with real professionals who put these instruments through their paces. This means signature guitars can often have sensible modifications and superior hardware, ensuring that these guitars stand up to the rigours of touring.

Which artists have a signature guitar?

Lots of well-known guitarists have one or more signature guitars available. The full list would be too long to complete here, but some selections include: Eddie Van Halen, Jim Root, Mark Tremonti, Carlos Santana, John Mayer, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, John Petrucci, James Hetfield, Tim Henson, Kirk Hammett, George Benson, Johnny Marr, Tom Morello, Slash and Noel Gallagher.

What makes a signature guitar different to a standard guitar?

Signature guitars differ from standard guitars in numerous ways. Often, there are modifications made to the hardware, pickups or features, and there are usually alterations to finish colours. Each signature model is different in some way from the standard catalogue.

What are the most popular signature guitars?

Our best-selling signature guitars include the Gibson Noel Gallagher Les Paul, the Ibanez Steve Vai JEM Junior and the Ibanez Tim Henson Tree of Death model.

Which artists have their own guitar brands?

Guitarists who have their own entire brand of guitars include Brian May (Brian May Guitars), Eddie Van Halen (EVH), Zakk Wylde (Wylde Audio) and Ola Englund (Solar Guitars).

What is the difference between a signature guitar and an artist tribute?

The main difference is that a signature guitar can be a completely new design that the world has never seen - such as the Ibanez Tree of Death - compared to a tribute which is a recreation of a famous existing guitar. Eric Clapton’s ‘Blackie’ Strat and Eddie Van Halen’s ‘Frankenstein’ guitar are good examples of artist tribute models.