History and Characteristics of Iconic Guitars

Introduction

• Paul David presents an overview of iconic guitar types and brands.
• Focuses on the characteristics, sounds, and historical context of these instruments.

The Birth of Electric Guitars

• Hollow Body Electric Guitar: Initial attempts to amplify guitar sound.
• Guitar Pickup: Crucial development for solid and semi-solid body electric guitars.

The 1950s - Decade of Innovation

• Many modern guitars are descendants of models from the 1950s.
• Key models of the era:
  • Fender Telecaster (1950): Initially named Broadcaster, features:
    • Two single-coil pickups
    • Three-way pickup switch
    • Bright, twangy sound
    • Notable variations: Thin Line Telecaster (1968)
  • Gibson Les Paul (1952): Response to the Telecaster, features:
    • Single cut design with a gold top
    • P90 pickups initially, later humbuckers (1957)
    • Iconic 'burst' finish added in 1958
    • Les Paul Standard Burst (1958-60) now highly valuable
  • Gretsch G6128 (1953): Lightweight hollow body, Dynasonic pickups, Melita Synchro-Sonic bridge
  • Fender Stratocaster (1954): Enhancements over Telecaster, features:
    • Third pickup for tonal flexibility
    • Contoured body and tremolo system

Innovations and Expansions

• Gibson ES-335 (1958): First semi-hollow guitar, features:
  • Center block to reduce feedback
  • PAF humbucker pickups
  • Versatile tones, favored by jazz and blues players
• Fender Jazzmaster (1958): Originally aimed at jazz players, adopted by surf rockers, features:
  • Offset body for comfort
  • Unique pickups and tremolo system
• Gibson Explorer and Flying V (1958): Modern designs that were initially commercial failures but later gained popularity.
• Gibson SG (1961): Redesigned Les Paul, features:
  • Double cutaway for better neck access
  • Lighter and easier to play

The Rise of Super Strats (1980s)

• Designed for metal and hard rock, features:
  • High output pickups
  • Flatter fretboard radius
  • Extreme tremolo systems
  • Notable example: Ibanez Jem and RG models

The Paul Reed Smith (PRS) Era

• PRS Guitars (1985): Innovative designs, high-end materials, favored by modern players.
• PRS Silver Sky: John Mayer's signature model inspired by vintage Stratocaster.

Boutique Guitars

• Smaller manufacturers creating high-quality, often custom, guitars.
• Notable examples:
  • Novo Serus T: Inspired by the Telecaster, features Gretsch Filter'Tron pickups.
  • B&G Little Sister: Unique sound with P90 pickups and a slotted headstock.

Conclusion

• Traditional guitar designs still influence modern guitars.
• New genres and playing styles continuously inspire innovation.
• Encouragement to explore various guitar brands and models based on individual needs and preferences.