Introduction
To all you rockers out there, gather round because we’re about to dive into the world of metal guitars. If you’re looking for an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be exploring the 7 best cheap metal guitars that will have you shredding like a pro without breaking the bank.
Before we jump into the details, let’s take a moment to greet all you music enthusiasts out there. Hello, fellow rockers! We’ve curated this list keeping in mind your passion for music and your budget constraints. So, without further ado, let’s dig in and find the perfect metal guitar that suits your style.
1. 👑 Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro is a true gem in the world of affordable metal guitars. With its stunning flame maple top and powerful Alnico Classic PRO humbuckers, this guitar delivers a rich and robust tone that’s perfect for metal. The slim-tapered neck allows for lightning-fast riffing, making it a favorite among shredders.
2. 🌟 Jackson JS32 King V
When it comes to metal, Jackson is a name that needs no introduction. The JS32 King V is a beast of a guitar that offers incredible value for money. With its aggressive looks and high-output humbuckers, this guitar is built to deliver bone-crushing riffs and searing solos. The Floyd Rose-licensed double-locking tremolo system ensures rock-solid tuning stability even during the most intense dive bombs.
3. 🎸 ESP LTD EC-256
The ESP LTD EC-256 is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality. With its mahogany body and set-neck construction, this guitar provides excellent sustain and resonance. The ESP-designed LH-150 humbuckers offer a versatile range of tones, from warm and smooth to aggressive and punchy, making it a great choice for metalheads on a budget.
4. 🔥 Ibanez RG421
If you’re a fan of speed and precision, look no further than the Ibanez RG421. With its thin and fast Wizard III neck profile and dual Quantum humbuckers, this guitar is built for shredding. The double-locking tremolo system allows for wild dive bombs and squealing pinch harmonics, giving you the tools you need to unleash your inner guitar hero.
5. ⚔️ Schecter Omen-6
The Schecter Omen-6 is a metal machine that offers incredible value for its price. With its basswood body and powerful Schecter Diamond Plus humbuckers, this guitar delivers crushing tones that will make your riffs sound massive. The thin “C” shape neck and 24-fret rosewood fingerboard ensure smooth playability, allowing you to navigate the fretboard with ease.
6. 🎵 Yamaha Pacifica 112V
Don’t let the modest price tag fool you, the Yamaha Pacifica 112V is a serious contender for the best cheap metal guitar. With its alder body and versatile pickup configuration (HSS), this guitar offers a wide range of tones that can handle anything from blues to metal. The smooth maple neck and vintage-style tremolo bridge make it a joy to play.
7. 🤘 Dean Vendetta XM
Last but not least, we have the Dean Vendetta XM, a budget-friendly guitar that packs a punch. With its lightweight basswood body and high-output humbucker, this guitar is perfect for players who crave a raw and aggressive tone. The slim neck profile and 24-fret rosewood fingerboard make it a breeze to navigate, whether you’re playing lightning-fast riffs or soulful solos.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Best Cheap Metal Guitars
Advantages
1. Quality on a Budget
One of the biggest advantages of these best cheap metal guitars is that they offer exceptional quality at an affordable price. You don’t have to break the bank to get a guitar that sounds great and feels comfortable to play.
2. Versatility
These guitars are not limited to just metal. They can handle a wide range of genres, making them a versatile choice for musicians who like to experiment with different styles of music.
3. Suitable for Beginners
If you’re a beginner looking to dive into the world of metal guitar, these affordable options are a great place to start. They provide an excellent platform to learn and grow as a guitarist without emptying your wallet.
4. Accessibility
By offering affordable options, these guitars make it easier for aspiring musicians to pursue their passion. They remove the financial barriers that may discourage some from picking up an instrument.
5. Great for Gigging
If you’re a gigging musician on a tight budget, these guitars are a fantastic choice. They offer reliable performance and won’t leave you heartbroken if they get a little banged up during a rowdy show.
6. Upgrade Potential
Many of these guitars are built with a solid foundation, allowing for future upgrades. As you grow as a guitarist, you can swap out pickups or upgrade other components to further enhance your tone.
7. Community Support
These budget-friendly guitars often have a large user base and dedicated online communities. This means you can easily find resources, tutorials, and support from fellow musicians who play the same instrument.
Disadvantages
1. Quality Control
With affordable guitars, there is a chance of encountering some quality control issues. While most reputable brands strive for consistency, a few units might slip through with minor cosmetic flaws or less-than-perfect setup. However, this can usually be resolved with a little tweaking or adjustment.
2. Limited Customization
Some budget guitars may have fewer options for customization compared to higher-end models. This may limit your ability to fine-tune the instrument to your exact preferences. However, with the right upgrades, you can still personalize your sound and playability.
3. Material Choices
Cutting costs often means compromising on materials. While these guitars still provide great tones, they might not have the same premium tonewoods or hardware found in more expensive options. However, modern manufacturing techniques have improved the quality of budget-friendly materials, making them sound better than ever before.
4. Resale Value
Since these guitars are considered budget-friendly, their resale value may not be as high as more prestigious brands or models. If you’re someone who frequently buys and sells gear, this could be a point to consider. However, if you find a guitar that you love and plan to keep for a long time, this becomes a non-issue.
5. Availability
Depending on your location, finding these guitars in physical stores might be a challenge. However, most reputable brands have online stores or authorized dealers that can ship the guitar directly to your doorstep.
6. Lack of Premium Features
As expected, budget-friendly guitars may not have the same high-end features found on more expensive models. You might miss out on things like locking tuners, premium finishes, or advanced electronics. However, these features are often not essential for creating great music and can be added later if desired.
7. Personal Preference
Lastly, the choice of a guitar is subjective and depends on personal preferences. While these guitars offer excellent quality and value for money, it’s essential to try them out and see if they resonate with you before making a final decision.
Complete Information about Best Cheap Metal Guitars
| Guitar Model | Price Range | Body Material | Pickup Configuration | Fretboard Material | Bridge System | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro | $500 – $700 | Mahogany with Maple Top | HH | Rosewood | Tune-O-Matic with Stopbar | Epiphone |
| Jackson JS32 King V | $300 – $400 | Poplar | HH | Amara | Floyd Rose-licensed Tremolo | Jackson |
| ESP LTD EC-256 | $300 – $400 | Mahogany | HH | Pau Ferro | Tune-O-Matic with Stopbar | ESP |
| Ibanez RG421 | $300 – $400 | Meranti | HH | Jatoba | Floating Tremolo | Ibanez |
| Schecter Omen-6 | $300 – $400 | Basswood | HH | Rosewood | Tune-O-Matic with String-Thru Body | Schecter |
| Yamaha Pacifica 112V | $200 – $300 | Alder | HSS | Rosewood | Vintage-Style Tremolo | Yamaha |
| Dean Vendetta XM | $100 – $200 | Basswood | HH | Rosewood | Tune-O-Matic with String-Thru Body | Dean |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are these best cheap metal guitars suited for beginners?
Indeed, these guitars are a fantastic choice for beginners looking to explore the world of metal. They offer an affordable entry point without compromising on quality.
2. Can I use these guitars for genres other than metal?
Absolutely! These guitars are versatile and can handle various genres, including rock, blues, and more. Their tonal range allows for experimentation and exploration.
3. Are there any specific accessories I should consider with these guitars?
While the essentials like a guitar strap, picks, and an amplifier are a good start, it’s always worth investing in a quality set of strings, a tuner, and a guitar case or gig bag to protect your instrument.
4. Can I upgrade the pickups on these guitars?
Yes, many of these guitars have standard-sized pickups, making it easy to swap them out for different models. Upgrading the pickups can significantly enhance your tone.
5. Do these guitars come with a warranty?
Yes, most reputable brands offer warranties on their guitars. Be sure to check the specific terms and conditions provided by the manufacturer or retailer.
6. Can I try these guitars before buying?
Physical stores often stock popular models, allowing you to try them out before making a purchase. Alternatively, online retailers usually have generous return policies if you’re not satisfied with your purchase.
7. What kind of amplifier should I use with these guitars?
In general, any guitar amplifier suitable for rock or metal will work well with these guitars. It’s worth experimenting with different amp models to find the one that complements your desired tone.
8. Are these guitars suitable for live performances?
Absolutely! These guitars are designed to withstand the rigors of live performances. Pair them with a reliable amplifier and you’ll be ready to rock any stage.
9. Do I need to set up these guitars upon purchase?
While most guitars come with a factory setup, it’s always a good idea to have a professional set up your instrument to ensure optimal playability and intonation.
10. Can I tune these guitars down to drop tunings?
Yes, these guitars can handle drop tunings without any issues. However, if you frequently play in extremely low tunings, you might want to consider heavier gauge strings for better string tension.
11. Can I travel with these guitars?
Yes, these guitars are suitable for traveling. However, it’s advisable to invest in a sturdy gig bag or hard case to protect your instrument during transit.
12. Can I play different metal subgenres with these guitars?
Absolutely! These guitars are versatile enough to cover various metal subgenres, from classic heavy metal to modern djent or metalcore. Experiment with different amp settings and effects to dial in your desired tone.
13. Can I order these guitars online?
Absolutely! Online retailers often offer a wide range of options, and many provide detailed descriptions and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision. Just be sure to purchase from a reputable source.
Conclusion
After exploring the world of best cheap metal guitars, it’s clear that you don’t need to empty your bank account to find an instrument that meets your metal needs. The Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro, Jackson JS32 King V, ESP LTD EC-256, Ibanez RG421, Schecter Omen-6, Yamaha Pacifica 112V, and Dean Vendetta XM all offer superb value for money.
While these guitars may have some drawbacks, their advantages far outweigh them. They provide high-quality sound, playability, and versatility at an affordable price. So, what are you waiting for? Grab one of these budget-friendly metal guitars and start rocking out!
Closing Statement
Before we conclude, we’d like to remind you that the best guitar is the one that feels right in your hands and inspires you to create music. It’s essential to try out different options and find the guitar that resonates with your style and preferences.
Remember, playing the guitar is about the joy and passion it brings, regardless of the price tag. Whether you choose one of these best cheap metal guitars or invest in a higher-end model down the line, the most important thing is to keep playing and exploring your musical journey.
Disclaimer: The prices and availability mentioned in this article are subject to change. Please check with authorized retailers or online stores for the most accurate and up-to-date information.