In the realm of electric guitars, there exists a subculture that revolves around the pursuit of colossal sound and a physical presence that dwarfs conventional instruments. These are the heavy electric guitars, built not just for playing music but for commanding it with sheer mass and raw power. In this article, we delve into the world of the most massive and weighty electric guitars ever created, exploring their origins, unique features, and the artists who dare to wield these sonic titans.
Defining the Heaviness
When we speak of “heavy” electric guitars, we’re not referring to their musical style or tone alone. Instead, we’re talking about their physical weight. These guitars are often characterized by the use of dense materials, extensive embellishments, and innovative designs, all contributing to their exceptional mass. Their heft can range from a few pounds heavier than standard models to several times heavier, pushing the boundaries of what a guitarist can physically handle.
Heavy Guitars in Rock and Metal
The concept of heavy guitars is most closely associated with rock and metal music, where the image of a massive instrument mirrors the thunderous sound it produces. These guitars often feature extended scales, specialized electronics, and unique body shapes designed to deliver crushing riffs and solos.
The Gibson EDS-1275 Double Neck: Doubling Down on Weight
One iconic heavy guitar is the Gibson EDS-1275 Double Neck, famously wielded by Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin. This mammoth instrument combines a six-string electric guitar with a twelve-string, creating a dual-neck design that doubles down on its weight. The EDS-1275’s thick body, two necks, and bulky headstocks contribute to its significant heft, making it both a sonic and physical behemoth.
The Gibson Flying V: An Aerodynamic Titan
The Gibson Flying V, an iconic heavy guitar, features a body shape that resembles a futuristic wing or V-shape, giving it a distinctive and imposing appearance. The use of solid mahogany and large, angular wings contributes to the guitar’s considerable weight. Artists like Jimi Hendrix and Michael Schenker have embraced the Flying V’s commanding presence.
The BC Rich Bich: Bold and Bulky
BC Rich is known for producing heavy guitars with extravagant body shapes and intricate details. The BC Rich Bich, with its multiple pointed protrusions and abundant hardware, adds significant mass to its design. It’s a favorite among metal guitarists who appreciate its bold aesthetics and thunderous sound.
The Dean ML: Shredding with Mass
The Dean ML, a signature model associated with Dimebag Darrell of Pantera, features a distinctive body shape that combines elements of a flying V and an Explorer. The guitar’s large, angular body and chunky hardware contribute to its weight, delivering both a commanding visual presence and a sound that’s capable of shaking the ground.
The World’s Heaviest Electric Guitars: Beyond Conventional
While the guitars mentioned above are undoubtedly heavy, there exist custom and one-of-a-kind instruments that take the concept of heaviness to extraordinary levels. These guitars push the limits of what’s possible in terms of size, mass, and sonic capabilities.
The Double-Guitar “Guitarzilla”
One notable example is “Guitarzilla,” a custom creation by luthier Doug Rowell. It features two full-sized electric guitars merged into a single monstrous instrument. With its double-neck design and extensive use of materials, Guitarzilla weighs an astonishing 100 pounds. It’s a true testament to the extremes that heavy guitar builders are willing to explore.
The “Monster” Guitar
Another custom heavy guitar is the aptly named “Monster.” Built by Canadian luthier Greg Baines, this colossal instrument boasts a scale length of 42 inches, more than double that of a typical guitar. It features an extended body, massive pickups, and custom-built hardware. The Monster Guitar is as much a sculpture as it is a musical instrument, weighing in at a staggering 85 pounds.
Artists Who Tame the Beasts
Artists who choose to wield these heavy guitars are not just musicians; they are performers and sonic pioneers. The weight of these instruments becomes an integral part of their stage presence and artistic expression. These artists include:
- Jimmy Page: The Gibson EDS-1275 became synonymous with Page’s performance of Led Zeppelin’s iconic “Stairway to Heaven.” He effortlessly navigated the dual necks, producing both 12-string jangle and searing six-string solos.
- Michael Schenker: Schenker’s use of the Gibson Flying V made the instrument an enduring symbol of heavy rock and metal. His fiery playing style and the guitar’s angular design are inseparable elements of his stage persona.
- Dimebag Darrell: Dimebag Darrell’s Dean ML was an extension of his explosive personality. Its weight and aggression mirrored his ferocious guitar solos and Pantera’s intense performances.
- Buckethead: Known for his enigmatic persona and extraordinary guitar skills, Buckethead often wields custom guitars of his own design, some of which are massive in size and weight. His unique approach to playing and stage presence make these guitars an integral part of his act.
The Sonic Impact
These heavy guitars are not just about their physical weight; they produce sounds that are equally massive. The use of dense materials and unconventional designs can influence their tone and resonance, creating unique sonic textures that contribute to their undeniable presence on stage.
The Weight Factor: A Personal Choice
Playing a heavy guitar is not for everyone. The added mass can lead to fatigue during extended performances, and the size can make it challenging to maneuver on stage. However, for those who embrace these colossal instruments, the rewards are both visual and sonic.
Conclusion
In the world of electric guitars, size does matter, and weight becomes a symbol of power and presence. The heavy electric guitars explored in this article are not just instruments; they are statements of artistic intent and aural domination. From the dual-necked Gibson EDS-1275 to the angular Gibson Flying V, these instruments command attention and respect both on and off the stage.
While the pursuit of heavy guitars may not be for everyone, it represents a unique niche within the world of guitar craftsmanship and performance. These guitars push the boundaries of what’s possible, both in terms of sound and physical presence, serving as a reminder that in the world of music, innovation knows no bounds.
In the hands of skilled artists who embrace their weight and wield their sonic might, heavy electric guitars become not just instruments but extensions of the musician’s persona, amplifying their creativity and impact on the world of music. Whether on tour with a legendary rock band or gracing the stage of an intimate club, these colossal instruments are an embodiment of the enduring quest for the extraordinary in music and the unending pursuit of sonic innovation.
