Iconic Instruments

Discover the electric guitars that revolutionized music and became the voices of legendary artists. Each instrument represents a breakthrough in design, technology, and musical expression.

Fender Stratocaster
1954
Fender

Fender Stratocaster

The most copied electric guitar design in history. Leo Fender's masterpiece introduced the world to the double-cutaway body, synchronized tremolo, and three single-coil pickup configuration that became the standard for electric guitars.

Technical Specifications

body
Alder or Ash
neck
Maple
pickups
3 Single-Coil
bridge
Synchronized Tremolo

Key Innovations

  • Contoured body for comfort
  • Synchronized tremolo system
  • Three single-coil pickup layout
  • Five-way pickup selector

Famous Players

Jimi HendrixEric ClaptonDavid GilmourJohn Mayer

Cultural Impact

Defined the sound of rock, blues, and pop music for over 70 years.

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Gibson Les Paul
1952
Gibson

Gibson Les Paul

The quintessential rock guitar, known for its thick, warm sustain and powerful humbucker pickups. Designed in collaboration with jazz guitarist Les Paul, it became the weapon of choice for rock legends.

Technical Specifications

body
Mahogany with Maple Cap
neck
Mahogany
pickups
2 Humbuckers
bridge
Tune-o-matic with Stop Tailpiece

Key Innovations

  • Mahogany body with maple cap
  • Humbucker pickup design
  • Tune-o-matic bridge system
  • Binding and premium appointments

Famous Players

Jimmy PageSlashJoe BonamassaGary Moore

Cultural Impact

Became synonymous with hard rock and heavy metal, defining the "thick" guitar sound.

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Fender Telecaster
1950
Fender

Fender Telecaster

The first commercially successful solid-body electric guitar. Originally called the Broadcaster, the Telecaster's simple design and bright, cutting tone made it a favorite among country and rock musicians.

Technical Specifications

body
Ash or Alder
neck
Maple
pickups
2 Single-Coil
bridge
Fixed Bridge with 3 Saddles

Key Innovations

  • First mass-produced solid-body guitar
  • Bolt-on neck construction
  • Simple, reliable electronics
  • Bright, cutting tone

Famous Players

Bruce SpringsteenKeith RichardsBrad PaisleyJoe Strummer

Cultural Impact

Pioneered the solid-body electric guitar and influenced countless designs that followed.

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Gibson SG
1961
Gibson

Gibson SG

Gibson's response to Fender's success, the SG featured a thinner, lighter body with dual cutaways for easy access to higher frets. Its devilish design became iconic in rock and metal.

Technical Specifications

body
Mahogany
neck
Mahogany
pickups
2 Humbuckers
bridge
Tune-o-matic with Vibrato or Stop Tailpiece

Key Innovations

  • Lightweight thin body design
  • Dual cutaway for fret access
  • Devil horn body shape
  • Improved neck joint

Famous Players

Angus YoungTony IommiDerek TrucksSister Rosetta Tharpe

Cultural Impact

Became the face of hard rock and heavy metal with its aggressive appearance and tone.

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