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The Jackson Rhoads is a model of electric guitar, originally commissioned by guitarist Randy Rhoads and produced by Jackson Guitars.

Key Information

Origin

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The Concorde

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Randy Rhoads' first Jackson prototype was the white, pinstriped, asymmetrical Flying V-inspired model built by Grover Jackson, Tim Wilson, and Mike Shannon of Charvel Guitars.[1]

The guitar featured a maple neck and body (neck through body), ebony fretboard, medium frets, Stratocaster style tremolo, and Seymour Duncan pickups. The prototype was the first from the Charvel works to be labeled with Jackson's name.

The guitar was originally slated to be called The Original SIN, but Randy nicknamed it Concorde[2] after the sleek, white supersonic aircraft.[3]

The second Rhoads prototype

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Randy re-designed the next prototype because he felt the shape of the Concorde was not distinctive enough from the traditional Flying V. His solution was to elongate the top "horn" of the instrument such that the body bore more resemblance to a shark's fin.

The second prototype featured the revised body shape, was black with a gold pickguard, and fixed tailpiece with strings anchored in the body. This guitar featured Grover locking tuners and Seymour Duncan humbucking pickups (TB-4 bridge and a SH-2 neck).

Further prototypes

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Two more string through body prototypes were commissioned (making four in total). One (later accidentally sold at the NAMM Show) was white with gold hardware and reversed shark fin inlays, and the other was black with brass hardware and reversed shark fin inlays. This fourth prototype is pictured in the photo. Rhoads died in a plane crash in March 1982, before these two guitars were completed and before he could give Grover any feedback. These revised prototypes would become the first guitars sold to the public under the Jackson Guitars brand name.

Notable users

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Vinnie Vincent, formerly of Kiss, was the first professional guitarist to be offered an early Rhoads guitar by Jackson after Rhoads' death, which Vincent used on the Kiss Creatures of the Night and Lick It Up tours from 1982 until 1984. Following Vincent's departure from Kiss, he modified the Rhoads V design by adding a second V at a slight rotation to the first such that it mimics a shadow. Jackson made at least 3 of these Vincent modified Rhoads Vs from 1985 to 1988 for Vincent, and about 25 others were custom ordered and sold. The design would later be copied by Carvin, Ibanez, Washburn Guitars, as well as to numerous boutique brands, all with Vinnie Vincent's cooperation.

In 2001, guitarists Alexi Laiho and Roope Latvala (of Children of Bodom and Sinergy) had their own custom Rhoads, which featured alder bodies, neck-through construction, 24 frets, ebony fretboard, white binding, and gold hardware including an original Floyd Rose tremolo bridge. The electronics were the Jackson J-50BC pickup with JE-1000 preamp. The model was called the Jackson Rhoads L/L (for Latvala/Laiho). There were several different finishes, notably Laiho's which was black with yellow bevels and gold hardware, and Latvala's main Rhoads was black with inverted cross inlays. Jackson released a limited number of the RR24 in the popular black finish with yellow highlights.

Models

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Basic shape of the Rhoads V

Jackson currently has 12 different Rhoads models in production. Previous models included the aluminum bodied 'Roswell Rhoads' with crop circle inlays.

USA Select Series

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Jackson JS20 RR model

The basic model in the USA Select Series is the RR1. The RR1 is made of alder with a maple neck-through design neck. The ebony fretboard has 22 jumbo frets. The RR1 is equipped with two Seymour Duncan humbuckers and a Floyd Rose original 2 point double locking tremolo at the bridge. The RR1 has four variations:

  • RR1: the standard Rhoads USA made guitar
  • RR1T: the RR1 with an adjustable string-through-body bridge
  • RR1 Left-Handed: left-handed version of the RR1
  • RR1T Left-Handed: left-handed version of the RR1T
  • RR2: bolt-on neck, USA made, Jackson JT580LP bridge, pickup Kent Armstrong JJB-0 bridge, JP-11 neck (produced 1996–1997)

Pro Series

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The Pro series is the mid-market Rhoads series. RR3, RR5, RR5FR, RR24, and RR24M were made in Japan. Newer models are made in Indonesia.

  • RR3: RR3 has an alder body and a bolt-on maple neck with 22 jumbo frets on a rosewood fretboard. This model has Seymour Duncan humbuckers in neck and bridge, and a Floyd Rose Licensed Jackson low-profile double-locking tremolo. During 2007, a limited run of 100 were made in ivory (white) with black pinstripes, similar to the finish found on RR5 in ivory. The limited run of RR3 features Duncan-designed humbuckers and string-through body. Indonesian RR3 models from 2016 onwards have a neck-through construction and 1000-series Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo.
  • RR5: RR5 has a maple through-body neck with alder wings and rosewood fretboard. The main difference between RR5 and RR3 is a neck-through and a fixed bridge for RR5 vs a bolt-on neck and a floating bridge for RR3. RR5 also features gold hardware, Seymour Duncan TB4 and SH4 humbucker pickups, and a string-through body. RR5 production years: 2000-2012 Japan (six digit serial stamped on last fret YYXXXX ex. 07XXXX=2007).
  • RR5FR: RR5FR is mostly the same as RR5 except it has a Floyd Rose FRT-O2000 tremolo bridge, black hardware (as opposed to gold), and is available in black, ivory, and pink pearl finishes.
  • RR24 (discontinued): RR24 has an alder body and a maple neck with an ebony fretboard. This model differs from RR3 and RR5 in that it is a 24-fret guitar. It has a neck-through body construction and original Floyd Rose tremolo. This model is fitted with only one pickup (EMG 81) in the bridge position and a single volume control. This model is also available in custom colors.
  • RR24M (discontinued): RR24M is mostly the same as RR24, but it has a maple fretboard as opposed to the traditional ebony fretboard.
  • RRMG: RRMG has an ebony fretboard on a maple neck, 22 jumbo frets, a Jackson speed neck, a Floyd Rose® special double locking 2-point tremolo, an EMG 81 and an EMG 89. The pickups are direct mounted.
  • RRTMG: RRTMG is mostly the same as RRMG except it has a string-through body (no Floyd Rose tremolo). T stands for "through" models.
  • RRT-3: (2014)
  • RRT-5: (2014)

Pro Series Artist Signature

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  • Kevin Bond Signature (discontinued): This model has a mahogany neck-through body and 22 jumbo frets. It is fitted with a Seymour Duncan "Iommi" humbucker, and adjustable string-through-body Schaller fine-tuning tailpiece. The Jackson logo is blood red.
  • Matt Tuck Signature (discontinued): This model has an alder neck-through body and maple neck (with scarf joint head stock), and 22 jumbo frets. It is fitted with an EMG 81 humbucker at the bridge, and EMG 85 humbucker at the neck. The bridge is a JT390 adjustable string-through-body type with Sperzel locking die-cast tuners. This is the only current model with a reversed headstock.

X Series

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The X series RX10D has an alder body with a maple bolt-on neck. The Rosewood fingerboard has 22 frets, and pickups are both Seymour Duncan-designed humbuckers. The bridge is a Jackson double locking tremolo unit.

The Jackson X Series also offers the Jackson RRXT. It has a basswood body with a through-body maple speed neck with tilt-back scarf. Pickups: Duncan-designed HB-102B humbucking bridge pickup and Duncan-designed HB-102N humbucking neck pickup.

In 2012, Jackson released the RRXMG.

JS Series

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The JS30RR is from the entry level group that is made in India. The body is Indian cedro and has a bolt-on maple neck. It is fitted with two Jackson pickups and an adjustable string-through-body bridge, and the rosewood fretboard has 24 frets. This model was available with a Floyd Rose tremolo as the JS35RR, but was discontinued in 2000. The current JS series offering is the JS32T Rhoads. It's similar to the original JS30RR, with the addition of shark fin inlays on the fretboard. it also had the JS35RR which was an upgraded version of the standard JS30RR.

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jackson Rhoads

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from Grokipedia
The Jackson Rhoads is an iconic electric guitar model produced by Jackson Guitars, renowned for its distinctive angular V-shaped body and its pivotal role in the evolution of heavy metal instrumentation.[1] Originally commissioned and co-designed by renowned guitarist Randy Rhoads in late 1980, the model emerged from Rhoads' desire for a custom instrument that combined visual flair with high-performance playability during his tenure with Ozzy Osbourne's band.[2] The initial prototype, dubbed the "Concorde" after the supersonic jet, featured a sleek white finish, neck-through-body construction, and an offset V contour sketched collaboratively on a napkin by Rhoads and Jackson founder Grover Jackson.[1] A refined second version, incorporating Rhoads' further input on ergonomics and aesthetics, debuted shortly before his tragic death in a plane crash in March 1982, solidifying the guitar's legendary status despite limited early production.[2] Over the decades, the Jackson Rhoads has become a cornerstone of Jackson's lineup, influencing the brand's reputation for innovative, shred-friendly designs in the 1980s heavy metal scene and beyond.[1] Key features across various iterations include a bolt-on or neck-through maple construction for stability, compound-radius fingerboards for speed, and high-output humbucking pickups tailored for aggressive tones, with models ranging from affordable JS Series entry points to premium Pro Series and Custom Shop variants.[3] The model's enduring appeal lies in its balance of aggressive aesthetics—often accented with sharkfin inlays and bold finishes—and technical prowess, making it a favorite among metal guitarists seeking both stage presence and precision.[3] In recent years, Jackson has revitalized the Rhoads lineage with the introduction of the American Series RR24 and RR24 HT models in September 2025, marking the shape's return to U.S.-made production in the company's Corona, California factory after previous overseas manufacturing.[3] These high-end versions incorporate modern appointments such as Seymour Duncan JB/'59 humbuckers, 24 stainless steel jumbo frets on an ebony fingerboard with a 12"-16" compound radius, and options for Floyd Rose tremolo or Hipshot hardtail bridges, priced starting at $2,729 and available in finishes like Satin Black and Snow White.[3] This evolution underscores the Rhoads' ongoing significance as a bridge between its origins in Rhoads' visionary collaboration and contemporary demands for premium, domestically crafted instruments in the metal genre.[3]

History

Early Prototypes

In late 1980, Randy Rhoads, frustrated with the playability limitations of his custom Les Paul guitars during Ozzy Osbourne's tours, commissioned Grover Jackson to create a personalized instrument that combined visual flair with enhanced ergonomics. Rhoads arrived at Jackson's shop on December 23, 1980, armed with rough sketches depicting a winged V-shaped body inspired by an asymmetrical Gibson Flying V, featuring a longer upper horn and shorter lower wing for better balance. This marked the start of their collaborative prototyping process, which aimed to produce a guitar suited for heavy metal performance demands.[4][5] The inaugural prototype, dubbed "The Concorde" by Rhoads after the supersonic jetliner he had recently flown on following a UK tour, was completed in early 1981—likely February or March—and built using a modified Charvel body as the base. Constructed from Pacific Coast Maple with neck-through-body design, it incorporated a compound-radius fretboard curving from 12 inches at the nut to 16 inches at the saddle for improved playability across positions, along with a custom brass tremolo sustain block crafted by Bill Gerein. The white-finished guitar, accented by black pinstripes, featured Seymour Duncan pickups—a Super Distortion humbucker in the bridge for aggressive tone and a Jazz model in the neck for cleaner articulation—wired in a Gibson V-style configuration. Despite its innovative aesthetics, the Concorde exhibited early balance issues due to the offset V shape, which Rhoads tested and refined during the remaining dates of the 1981 Blizzard of Ozz tour.[4][5][6] Addressing feedback from the initial build, Jackson's team developed a second prototype, delivered to Rhoads on December 27, 1981, while he was touring in Europe. This refined iteration shifted to a black finish and introduced a double-winged body design with an extended upper horn to further differentiate it from traditional Flying Vs, alongside shark fin inlays on the fretboard and the emerging pointy Jackson headstock shape. Retaining the neck-through construction for sustain, it featured a vintage-style non-locking tremolo. These changes mitigated the balance problems of the first prototype and solidified core elements like the compound radius, establishing a foundation that influenced heavy metal guitar aesthetics.[4][5]

Production Launch

Following Randy Rhoads' death in a plane crash on March 19, 1982, Jackson Guitars elected to move forward with production of the custom guitar design he had developed in collaboration with the company, basing the initial run on the second prototype as a template. Additional prototypes, including the third (RR3) with a Gibson-style stop tailpiece, were completed in late 1983 and displayed at the 1984 NAMM Show. This decision transformed the project from a personal commission into a posthumous tribute, honoring Rhoads' contributions to heavy metal guitar design.[1][7] The first production Jackson Rhoads guitars entered the market in 1983, characterized by neck-through-body construction, ebony fretboards with sharkfin inlays, Gotoh tuners, and Schaller hardware components such as the tailpiece. These early models maintained the asymmetrical V-shaped body and pointed headstock from the prototypes, with initial retail pricing around $1,200, reflecting their handcrafted nature in Jackson's San Dimas facility. Production was constrained by limited runs, as each instrument required meticulous custom assembly, resulting in only a small number of units available that year.[7] In a key gesture, Jackson named the model the "Jackson Rhoads" to commemorate the guitarist, diverging from Rhoads' original suggestion of "Concorde." The first production examples were offered to notable musicians, including Vinnie Vincent of Kiss in 1983, marking an early endorsement in the rock community. The model made its public debut at the Winter NAMM Show in January 1984, where prototypes and initial units were displayed, solidifying its status as an iconic entry in Jackson's lineup.[5][7]

Design Evolution

Following the shift to mass production after Jackson's licensing agreement with International Music Corporation (IMC) in 1985 and subsequent sale in 1986, the Rhoads design transitioned from bespoke prototypes to more standardized manufacturing, enabling wider availability while retaining its signature offset V shape.[8] In the 1990s, licensed Floyd Rose double-locking tremolos became a standard feature on many Rhoads models, providing enhanced tuning stability for aggressive playing styles, and EMG active pickups were increasingly adopted as factory options to deliver the high-output tone favored in metal genres.[9] These updates addressed player demands for reliability and power without altering the core asymmetrical aesthetics originally inspired by Randy Rhoads' prototypes. Into the 2000s and 2010s, refinements focused on playability and durability, with the introduction of compound radius fretboards—typically 12"-16"—allowing easier chording near the nut and faster bends higher up the neck.[3] Graphite reinforcement rods were incorporated into the necks for improved stability against environmental changes, a feature that became commonplace across production lines.[10] The 2002 acquisition by Fender Musical Instruments Corporation facilitated USA-made revivals, emphasizing premium construction while preserving the Rhoads' aggressive contours.[9] A key milestone came in 2001 with custom Rhoads models for Children of Bodom guitarist Alexi Laiho, which influenced subsequent designs by emphasizing streamlined ergonomics suited to neoclassical shredding.[4] Material choices evolved to balance tone, weight, and availability, starting with maple bodies in early prototypes for their resonant warmth before shifting to alder as the production standard for its balanced midrange punch.[11] Modern variants incorporate ash for brighter articulation or walnut tops for added sustain, with chambering introduced in select models to reduce overall weight—often by 10-15%—while maintaining structural integrity and enhancing acoustic resonance.[12] In 2025, the American Series Rhoads lineup marked a premium evolution, featuring alder bodies paired with graphite-reinforced three-piece maple necks and 12"-16" compound radius ebony fretboards, bringing the design back to U.S. production with refined stability and sustain.[3]

Design Characteristics

Body and Aesthetics

The Jackson Rhoads guitar is renowned for its iconic double-winged V-shaped body, an asymmetrical design featuring a longer upper wing and shorter lower wing that spans approximately 16.5 inches across the top. This distinctive shape originated from Randy Rhoads' hand-drawn sketches on a scrap of paper, which modified the classic Gibson Flying V to create a more radical, angular profile suited to the visual demands of heavy metal.[5][13] The body is crafted from resonant tonewoods such as alder in premium models for its balanced brightness and clarity, or basswood and poplar in more affordable variants to provide lightweight responsiveness without sacrificing projection. Mahogany appears in select iterations like the Pro Series RRT-5, adding warmth to the overall timbre. These material choices ensure the Rhoads' body contributes to its signature articulate sustain, particularly when paired with the instrument's core construction.[14][15][16] Central to the design is the neck-through-body construction, where a three-piece maple core runs the full length of the guitar, promoting exceptional sustain and tonal consistency by integrating the body wings seamlessly around it. A contoured heel enhances high-fret access, while scarfed heel joints at the headstock bolster structural integrity and playing comfort. These techniques address ergonomic challenges, including balanced weight distribution to counteract the oversized headstock's forward pull during performance.[5][14][15] Aesthetically, the Rhoads emphasizes bold, stage-ready visuals, with early production models showcasing a crisp white finish accented by red or black pinstripes that highlight the sharp V contours. Over time, options have expanded to include custom paint schemes and mirrored pickguards, allowing players to personalize the guitar's gleaming, futuristic appearance while retaining its aggressive silhouette.[13][14][17]

Neck and Playability

The Jackson Rhoads guitar features a neck constructed from one-piece maple or multi-piece maple/walnut laminates, providing a slim profile optimized for speed and responsiveness during extended playing sessions.[18][16] The standard scale length measures 25.5 inches, which supports balanced tension and intonation across the fretboard, contributing to the instrument's reputation for facilitating rapid techniques.[19] Many models incorporate graphite reinforcement rods within the neck to enhance stability against environmental changes, ensuring consistent performance and longevity.[20] Fretboard options typically include ebony, rosewood, or amaranth, fitted with a 12"-16" compound radius that flattens toward the higher frets for improved bending and soloing comfort while maintaining ease of chording near the nut.[21][22] Equipped with 24 jumbo frets—often stainless steel in premium variants—these boards promote low-action setups with minimal string buzz, and select higher-end models feature black binding for enhanced aesthetics and edge protection.[20] Recent iterations introduce rolled fretboard edges, which soften the feel under the fretting hand for reduced fatigue during aggressive play.[23] Playability is further refined through satin or oiled finishes on the neck back, delivering a smooth, fast-glide surface that accelerates hand movement without stickiness.[19][24] A contoured heel design in several configurations improves access to upper frets, while the standard dual-action truss rod allows precise adjustments for optimal neck relief and action height, enabling players to achieve setups as low as desired without compromising playability.[25] Construction varies between neck-through-body for superior sustain and bolt-on for easier maintenance, with the former prevalent in Rhoads models to align with high-gain, shred-oriented demands.[18][19]

Electronics and Hardware

The Jackson Rhoads guitars feature dual humbucking pickups as standard, providing high-output tone suited for metal genres with emphasis on gain and sustain. In American Series models, such as the RR24 HT, the configuration includes a Seymour Duncan JB™ TB-4 bridge pickup and a Seymour Duncan '59™ SH-1N neck pickup, delivering versatile crunch and clarity.[26] Lower-tier JS Series models, like the JS32, employ Jackson-branded high-output humbucking pickups with ceramic magnets for aggressive, full-bodied overdrive.[27] Electronics typically consist of a three-way toggle switch for selecting bridge, neck, or both pickups, paired with individual volume and tone controls for precise adjustments. Some variants incorporate coil-tap options via push-pull pots or expanded wiring schemes, enabling single-coil-like sounds for added versatility beyond standard humbucker modes. Pro Series models, such as the RR3, often feature direct-mounted pickups to enhance resonance and reduce microphonic feedback under high gain.[18] Hardware emphasizes tuning stability and expressive playability, with a licensed Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo bridge standard across most Rhoads designs since the 1980s, allowing for precise dive bombs and pitch bends while maintaining intonation.[18] Locking nuts are integral to this system, securing strings at the headstock end to complement the bridge's locking mechanism. Tuners vary by series: sealed die-cast Jackson tuners in JS models for reliable performance, and Gotoh locking tuners in higher-end MJ and Pro Series for enhanced stability during aggressive techniques.[27][14] The string-through-body design routes strings through the body to the bridge, promoting extended sustain that synergizes with the guitar's resonant woods.[18]

Models

American and USA Select Series

The American Series Rhoads guitars were introduced by Jackson on September 17, 2025, marking the addition of the iconic Rhoads body shape to the brand's premium USA-made lineup produced at the Corona, California factory.[28][20] These models, including the RR24 and RR24 HT variants, feature an alder body in the signature offset Rhoads design, paired with a through-body three-piece maple neck reinforced with graphite for enhanced stability.[26] The ebony fingerboard offers a 12"-16" compound radius with 24 jumbo stainless steel frets and rolled edges for smooth playability, while the reverse 6-in-line headstock maintains the classic aesthetic.[29] Equipped with USA-made Seymour Duncan JB™ SH-4™ bridge and '59™ SH-1N neck humbucking pickups, the RR24 includes a Gotoh Custom 510 tremolo system, and the RR24 HT variant features a hardtail bridge for solid intonation; both are finished in options like Satin Black and priced starting at $2,729.99.[20][30] The USA Select Series represents Jackson's pre-2025 flagship Rhoads offerings, crafted in small batches by the Custom Shop in Corona, California, using 100% USA-sourced components and serialized for authenticity, with a limited lifetime warranty. The core RR1 model features a premium alder body, quartersawn Eastern hard rock maple neck-thru-body construction, and a compound-radius ebony fingerboard with 22 jumbo frets, delivering exceptional resonance and sustain.[31] It is outfitted with Seymour Duncan humbucking pickups—an SH-2N in the neck and TB-4 in the bridge—alongside an original Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo for precise tuning stability, available in finishes such as Gloss Black and Snow White.[32][33] Building on the original 1980s designs, the USA Select Series includes reissues like the RR1, which recreates the legendary axe that defined early metal tones, with variants such as the RR1T featuring a string-through-body bridge for improved sustain.[34] Limited editions, such as the 2023 Blue Ice Metallic RR1T run of just 10 instruments, incorporate exclusive aesthetics and hand-selected materials, emphasizing boutique craftsmanship without exotic figured tops as standard.[35] All models undergo rigorous quality control at the Corona facility, ensuring hand-finished details and serialized provenance for collectors.[36]

Pro Series

The Pro Series Rhoads guitars represent Jackson's professional-grade imported lineup, crafted for touring musicians seeking a balance of high performance, durability, and affordability without the premium cost of USA-made models. These instruments maintain the iconic offset V-shaped design originally inspired by Randy Rhoads in the 1980s, while incorporating modern features for stage reliability.[18] Core specifications include bodies constructed from mahogany, basswood, or okoume, paired with maple necks—often in three-piece configurations with walnut laminates for enhanced stability. Fingerboards are typically ebony with 24 jumbo frets and a compound radius of 12"-16" for fluid playability across chords and solos. Electronics feature high-output Seymour Duncan humbuckers, such as the SH-6 Distortion models in bridge and neck positions, delivering aggressive tone suitable for metal and hard rock genres. Hardware consists of Floyd Rose 1000 Series double-locking tremolos for precise pitch control and dive bombs, along with locking nuts and sealed die-cast tuners. Necks are reinforced with graphite rods to withstand rigorous touring conditions, and many models employ neck-through-body construction for superior sustain.[37][18][38] Pricing for Pro Series Rhoads models falls in the mid-range, typically between $800 and $1,500, making them accessible for professional use while offering options in finishes such as gloss black, ivory with black pinstripes, or mirror finishes. Availability includes standard configurations with pearloid sharkfin inlays, alongside limited runs featuring distinctive aesthetics like pinstriped bodies for added visual appeal on stage. These guitars are built in Indonesia or China, reflecting Jackson's strategy to deliver import quality at scale.[37]

Artist Signature Series

The Artist Signature Series of Jackson Rhoads guitars features bespoke variants tailored to prominent metal guitarists, incorporating their preferences for aesthetics, hardware, and playability while retaining the iconic offset V-shaped body design pioneered by Randy Rhoads. These models often include limited production runs and unique graphics or finishes reflective of the artist's style, distinguishing them from standard production lines. Reissues and tributes to Randy Rhoads himself form the foundation, faithfully replicating elements of his original 1981 prototypes, such as the white finish with pinstriping, neck-through construction using quartersawn maple, and uncovered humbucking pickups for enhanced sustain and tonal clarity. For instance, the USA Select Randy Rhoads RR1 utilizes an alder body, compound-radius ebony fingerboard with mother-of-pearl sharkfin inlays, and Seymour Duncan JB and Jazz humbuckers to evoke the aggressive, articulate tone of the originals.[39] In 2001, Jackson produced a limited run of custom Rhoads models for Children of Bodom guitarists Alexi Laiho and Roope Latvala, designated the RR L/L (Latvala/Laiho), with only 51 units available exclusively in Finland. These guitars featured alder bodies, neck-through maple construction, black finishes with yellow bevel accents, and custom Jackson J-50BC humbucking pickups paired with a JE-1000 preamp for high-output active electronics suited to neoclassical metal shredding. Laiho's version included skull motifs on the headstock and hardware in black to match his stage aesthetic, emphasizing speed and precision through a 12-16 inch compound-radius rosewood fingerboard. This collaboration marked an early example of artist-driven customization in the Rhoads line, influencing subsequent signature releases inspired by Children of Bodom's sound.[4] Later entries in the series expanded to other artists, such as All That Remains' Oli Herbert, whose 2018 USA Signature Limited Edition Rhoads was produced in a run of just seven units. This model boasted a mahogany body with a quilted maple top in a striking Red Rum burst finish, direct-mount Bare Knuckle Aftermath humbuckers for aggressive midrange bite, and an EverTune bridge for unwavering tuning stability during heavy riffing. Similarly, Gojira's Christian Andreu collaborated on the Pro Series Signature Christian Andreu Rhoads RRT in 2021, featuring a poplar body with flame maple top in natural with black bevels, a single Jackson high-output humbucking pickup, and a Floyd Rose 1000 Series tremolo, optimized for his progressive metal style with enhanced upper fret access.[40] These limited-edition pieces highlight the series' focus on personalized graphics and hardware tweaks, such as Herbert's rum-inspired colorway and Andreu's streamlined aesthetics.[41][30] In 2025, Jackson introduced the American Series Rhoads lineup, featuring collaborations with The Black Dahlia Murder's Brandon Ellis and Nevermore alum Jeff Loomis to showcase the model's versatility in modern metal contexts. Announced ahead of NAMM, these RR24 variants incorporate artist input on playability, including rolled fretboard edges and high-output humbuckers, while maintaining the classic Rhoads silhouette with alder bodies and ebony fingerboards for superior resonance and speed. Limited production elements, such as custom graphics for Ellis's tech-death influences, underscore the ongoing evolution of the signature series toward extended-range and hybrid configurations.[20]

X and JS Series

The X and JS Series represent Jackson's entry-level offerings in the Rhoads lineup, designed to provide accessible, high-performance guitars for beginners and value-conscious players while retaining the iconic aggressive styling and playability of higher-tier models. These series scale down elements from professional designs, such as compound-radius fretboards and high-output pickups, to deliver shred-friendly features at a fraction of the cost.[42] The JS Series, priced typically between $300 and $600, features affordable imported models manufactured in China or Indonesia with poplar bodies for a lightweight feel ideal for extended practice sessions. These guitars employ bolt-on maple necks reinforced with graphite and a scarf joint for stability, paired with a 25.5-inch scale length and 24 jumbo frets on a bound amaranth fretboard with a 12"-16" compound radius to facilitate fast playing and bends. Equipped with dual Jackson high-output humbucking pickups featuring ceramic magnets and a Jackson-branded 2-point fulcrum tremolo bridge, the JS Series emphasizes tonal versatility for rock and metal genres without premium hardware costs.[27][43][44] Positioned slightly above the JS line at $500 to $800, the X Series incorporates upgraded components like a licensed Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo and locking nut for enhanced tuning stability during aggressive techniques. Models such as the RRX24 use poplar bodies and through-body maple necks with graphite reinforcement, maintaining the 25.5-inch scale and 24 jumbo frets, but with a bound laurel fretboard offering the same 12"-16" compound radius for smooth navigation across the neck. Pickups include Jackson VO-voiced high-output humbuckers in HH configuration, with HSS options available for added single-coil clarity and tonal range suitable for versatile stage use. These build choices, including synthetic-leaning fretboard woods like laurel, prioritize durability and affordability over exotic tonewoods, resulting in guitars weighing around 7 pounds for comfortable handling.[45][46][47] Both series focus on practical compromises to broaden accessibility, such as bolt-on construction in the JS models and overall emphasis on lightweight poplar for fatigue-free practice, while avoiding set-neck complexity. Widely available through major retailers like Guitar Center and Sweetwater, they come in eye-catching finishes including Gloss Black, Satin White with Black Pinstripes, and Amethyst Purple, appealing to players seeking the Rhoads' distinctive V-shaped aesthetic on a budget.[48][49][50]

Notable Users

Randy Rhoads

Randy Rhoads, born Randall William Rhoads on December 6, 1956, co-founded the heavy metal band Quiet Riot in the early 1970s alongside vocalist Kevin DuBrow, becoming a major draw on the Los Angeles club circuit with their high-energy performances.[2] In 1979, Rhoads joined Ozzy Osbourne's backing band for the Blizzard of Ozz tour and recordings, contributing iconic neoclassical solos to tracks like "Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley" on the 1980 album Blizzard of Ozz.[2] He continued this collaboration on the 1981 album Diary of a Madman, blending classical influences with metal riffing before his tragic death in a plane crash on March 19, 1982, at age 25 while touring in Florida.[2][51] Rhoads played a pivotal role in the development of the Jackson Rhoads guitar, employing early prototypes, including the white Concorde offset-V model with black pinstriping, during the Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman tours, favoring the white finish for its high visibility under stage lights.[51][52] Following his death, the guitar design was posthumously named the Jackson Rhoads model, becoming a flagship for the brand and symbolizing his innovative contributions to metal instrumentation.[4] Rhoads' legacy endures through the Randy Rhoads Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1989 with $50,000 from his career earnings trust to support classical guitar studies at institutions like UCLA, honoring his early training and commitment to music education.[53][54]

Other Endorsers and Players

Following Randy Rhoads' pioneering role in designing the model, several notable guitarists adopted the Jackson Rhoads after its 1982 launch, expanding its reach in heavy metal subgenres.[4] Among early adopters, Vinnie Vincent, lead guitarist for Kiss from 1982 to 1984, received one of the first professional Rhoads guitars offered by Jackson shortly after Rhoads' death in 1982; he famously customized a pink variant for the band's Lick It Up tour, enhancing its visual flair in the glam metal scene.[55][56] Robbin Crosby of Ratt also embraced a Double Rhoads variant, dubbed "Big Red," which he used prominently during the band's 1980s rise, influencing the development of Jackson's King V model and contributing to the guitar's association with hair metal aesthetics.[57][58] In the 1990s and 2000s, the Rhoads gained traction in thrash and speed metal circles. Marty Friedman, during his tenure with Megadeth from 1990 to 2000, customized Rhoads models for their neoclassical phrasing and high-speed solos, as seen on albums like Rust in Peace, where the guitar's sharp contours and playability suited intricate riffing.[59] Scott Ian of Anthrax incorporated Rhoads guitars into his setup for their bold stage presence, aligning with the band's thrash visuals on tours supporting albums like Among the Living, though he later favored King V signatures.[60] Modern players have further propelled the model's legacy. Alexi Laiho of Children of Bodom drove demand for Rhoads-inspired designs with his early 2000s custom "Wildchild" variant—a 24-fret Rhoads used on albums like Follow the Reaper—leading to posthumous signature releases that captured his melodic death metal style.[61] Andreas Kisser of Sepultura received a Custom Shop Rhoads V in 2018 for the Machine Messiah tour, praising its sustain and aggression for the band's groove metal evolution.[62] In 2025, Brandon Ellis of The Black Dahlia Murder promoted the American Series Rhoads through collaborations and demos, highlighting its role in modern technical death metal.[63][64] In September 2025, Jeff Loomis of Megadeth featured the American Series Rhoads in a promotional video alongside Brandon Ellis, highlighting its modern playability.[64] These endorsements amplified the Rhoads' cultural footprint, cementing its icon status in thrash and neoclassical metal while fueling sales during the 1980s hair metal boom, where its futuristic V-shape became synonymous with excess and shred.[4]

References

  1. Jackson History
  2. Randy Rhoads Bio
  3. Jackson Rhoads V joins its high-end American Series | Guitar World
  4. A Brief History of Jackson Guitars
  5. The Guitars That Built Rock: The Jackson Randy Rhoads | Louder
  6. Where Did the “Concorde” Come From? - Jackson® Guitars Blog
  7. The story of Randy Rhoads' long-lost Jackson RR3 prototype
  8. Action Jackson - Premier Guitar
  9. The history of Jackson Guitars
  10. https://www.jacksonguitars.com/products/mj-series-rhoads-rrt
  11. Gibson Flying V vs. Jackson Rhoads - Andertons Blog
  12. [PDF] jackson/charvel - Guitar Compare
  13. The Making of Randy Rhoads' Famous Vs - Premier Guitar
  14. MJ Series Rhoads RR24MG
  15. Pro Series Rhoads RRT-5
  16. Jackson Rhoads Guitars - Sweetwater
  17. Chrome Mirrored Pickguard for Jackson Randy Rhoads Flying V
  18. Pro Series Rhoads RR3
  19. Jackson Rhoads JS32T FSR Electric Guitar Natural Oil
  20. Jackson Brings Iconic Rhoads to American Series Lineup
  21. https://www.jacksonguitars.com/products/pro-plus-series-rhoads-rr24
  22. Jackson Concept Series Rhoads RR24 HS and Soloist SLAT7P HT ...
  23. https://wildwestguitars.com/product/jackson-american-series-rhoads-rr24-fr-floyd-rose-ebony-fingerboard-matte-army-drab-7-95-lbs/
  24. Pre-Order! Jackson Pro Plus RR24 Rhoads Guitar in Deep Black
  25. Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 review - Guitar World
  26. American Series Rhoads RR24 HT
  27. JS Series Rhoads JS32
  28. jackson brings iconic rhoads to american series lineup
  29. New Jackson American Series: Rhoads RR24
  30. Jackson American Series Rhoads RR24 Electric Guitar - Satin Black
  31. USA Select Randy Rhoads RR1 - Jacksonguitars.com
  32. Jackson USA Select Rhoads RR1 Electric Guitar - Gloss Black
  33. https://www.musicarts.com/jackson-usa-rr1-randy-rhoads-select-series-electric-guitar-main0039678
  34. https://www.guitarcenter.com/Jackson/USA-RR1-Randy-Rhoads-Select-Series-Electric-Guitar-Black-1273888003479.gc
  35. https://blackmountainguitar.com/products/jackson-usa-select-randy-rhoads-rr1t-blue-ice-metallic-new
  36. USA Select Randy Rhoads RR1 – Jacksonguitars.com
  37. Jackson Pro Plus Series Rhoads Electric Guitar - Deep Black
  38. https://www.melhart.com/p-111525-jackson-pro-series-rhoads-rr3-ivory-with-black-pinstripes.aspx
  39. The USA Select Jackson Randy Rhoads RR1 - G String Guitars
  40. That Remains' Oli Herbert Showcases his Jackson USA Signature ...
  41. https://www.jacksonguitars.com/collections/x-series
  42. Jackson Rhoads JS32 Electric Guitar Ivory
  43. Jackson JS32 Rhoads AH BK – United States - Thomann
  44. X Series Rhoads RRX24
  45. Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 - Black with Yellow Bevels
  46. Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 Electric Guitar Black with Yellow ...
  47. https://www.musicarts.com/jackson-js-series-rhoads-js32t-electric-guitar-main0533818
  48. Jackson RR24 X Series Rhoads - Satin White with Black Pinstripes
  49. Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 Camo Electric Guitar Black Camo
  50. Fretprints: Randy Rhoads - Vintage Guitar® magazine
  51. Randy Rhoads' Guitars and Gear - GroundGuitar
  52. RHOADS SCHOLARSHIP - Chicago Tribune
  53. RHOADS SCHOLARS WILL BENEFIT FROM LATE GUITARIST'S ...
  54. VINNIE VINCENT ELECTRIC GUITAR - Julien's Auctions
  55. Jackson Double Rhoads - VintageGuitarEncyclopedia.com
  56. 10 Artists Who Play JACKSON Guitars - GuitarGuitar
  57. Alexi Laiho - Equipboard
  58. Watch Sepultura Guitarist Andreas Kisser's New Jackson Custom ...
  59. https://www.jacksonguitars.com/pages/brandon-ellis
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