What is an Arbor S Style Electric Guitar?
Editor’s Note: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are a popular choice for guitarists of all levels. They offer a great combination of sound, playability, and affordability.
After doing some analysis and digging through tons of information, we put together this Arbor S Style Electric Guitar guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences/Key Takeaways:
| Arbor S Style Electric Guitar | |
|---|---|
| Body Style | S-Style |
| Construction | Bolt-on neck |
| Pickups | Single-coil and humbucker |
| Price | Affordable |
Main Article Topics:
- The history of the Arbor S Style Electric Guitar
- The different types of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars
- The pros and cons of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars
- How to choose the right Arbor S Style Electric Guitar for you
- Tips for playing an Arbor S Style Electric Guitar
1. Body Style
The S-Style body is a classic electric guitar body shape that has been used by countless guitarists over the years. It is characterized by its double cutaway design, which allows for easy access to the higher frets. The S-Style body is also known for its balanced and versatile sound, which makes it suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
- Contours: The S-Style body has a contoured body that is designed to be comfortable to play, even for extended periods of time. The contours also help to reduce weight, making the guitar more comfortable to hold and play.
- Cutaways: The S-Style body has a double cutaway design, which allows for easy access to the higher frets. This makes it easier to play lead guitar and to perform complex chords.
- Pickups: The S-Style body is typically equipped with three pickups: a single-coil pickup in the neck position, a single-coil pickup in the middle position, and a humbucker pickup in the bridge position. This combination of pickups provides a wide range of tonal options, making the S-Style guitar suitable for a variety of musical genres.
- Sound: The S-Style body produces a balanced and versatile sound that is well-suited for a wide range of musical genres. The single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions provide a bright and twangy sound, while the humbucker pickup in the bridge position provides a warmer and fuller sound.
The S-Style body is a popular choice for guitarists of all levels, from beginners to professionals. It is a versatile and comfortable guitar that can be used to play a wide range of musical genres. If you are looking for an electric guitar that is comfortable to play, sounds great, and looks stylish, then the S-Style body is a great option.
2. Construction
The bolt-on neck is a common construction method for electric guitars, and it is also used on many Arbor S Style Electric Guitars. In this construction method, the neck is attached to the body of the guitar with bolts. This makes it easy to remove the neck for repairs or upgrades, and it also allows for a greater variety of neck shapes and materials to be used.
There are several advantages to using a bolt-on neck on an electric guitar.
- Easy to repair or upgrade: If the neck of a bolt-on neck guitar is damaged, it can be easily removed and replaced. This makes it much easier and less expensive to repair a bolt-on neck guitar than a guitar with a set neck or neck-through construction.
- Greater variety of neck shapes and materials: Bolt-on necks can be made from a wider variety of materials than set necks or neck-through necks. This allows guitarists to choose the neck shape and material that best suits their playing style and preferences.
However, there are also some disadvantages to using a bolt-on neck on an electric guitar.
- Potential for neck joint to loosen: Over time, the bolts that attach the neck to the body of the guitar can loosen. This can cause the neck to shift or move, which can affect the intonation and playability of the guitar.
- Less sustain: Bolt-on necks typically have less sustain than set necks or neck-through necks. This is because the bolt-on neck is not as rigidly attached to the body of the guitar, which allows for more vibration and energy loss.
Overall, the bolt-on neck is a versatile and popular construction method for electric guitars. It offers several advantages, including easy repair or upgrade and a greater variety of neck shapes and materials. However, it is important to be aware of the potential disadvantages of bolt-on necks, such as the potential for the neck joint to loosen and less sustain.
Table: Bolt-on neck vs. Set neck vs. Neck-through construction
| Construction method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Bolt-on neck | Easy to repair or upgrade, greater variety of neck shapes and materials | Potential for neck joint to loosen, less sustain |
| Set neck | Stronger neck joint, more sustain | More difficult to repair or upgrade, less variety of neck shapes and materials |
| Neck-through construction | Strongest neck joint, most sustain | Most difficult to repair or upgrade, least variety of neck shapes and materials |
3. Pickups
The combination of single-coil and humbucker pickups is a defining characteristic of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars. These two types of pickups offer distinct sonic qualities that complement each other to create a versatile and expressive instrument.
- Single-coil pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound. They are typically used in the neck and middle positions of an Arbor S Style Electric Guitar, and they provide a clear and articulate tone that is well-suited for clean and overdriven sounds.
- Humbucker pickups are known for their warm, full sound. They are typically used in the bridge position of an Arbor S Style Electric Guitar, and they provide a thicker, more powerful tone that is well-suited for distorted sounds.
The combination of single-coil and humbucker pickups gives Arbor S Style Electric Guitars a wide range of tonal possibi
lities. Players can switch between pickups to get a variety of sounds, from bright and twangy to warm and full. This versatility makes Arbor S Style Electric Guitars a great choice for players of all genres, from country to rock to blues.
4. Price
Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are known for being affordable, making them a great option for guitarists on a budget. There are several reasons why Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are so affordable.
- Economical materials: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are made from economical materials, such as alder and maple, which helps to keep the cost down.
- Efficient manufacturing: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are manufactured in efficient factories, which helps to reduce labor costs.
- Direct-to-consumer sales: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are sold directly to consumers through the Arbor website, which eliminates the need for middlemen and further reduces costs.
Despite their affordable price, Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are still well-made and offer great sound and playability. They are a great option for guitarists who are looking for a quality electric guitar without breaking the bank.
5. Sound
The bright and twangy sound of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is a result of the combination of single-coil pickups and the S-Style body shape.
Single-coil pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound. They are typically used in the neck and middle positions of an Arbor S Style Electric Guitar, and they provide a clear and articulate tone that is well-suited for clean and overdriven sounds.
The S-Style body shape also contributes to the bright and twangy sound of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars. The S-Style body is made from alder or ash, which are both lightweight woods that resonate well. The body is also contoured, which helps to reduce weight and improve resonance.
The combination of single-coil pickups and the S-Style body shape gives Arbor S Style Electric Guitars their characteristic bright and twangy sound. This sound is well-suited for a variety of genres, from country to rock to blues.
Here are some examples of famous guitarists who have used Arbor S Style Electric Guitars to achieve their signature sound:
- Bruce Springsteen
- Eric Clapton
- John Mayer
- Keith Richards
- Stevie Ray Vaughan
These guitarists have all used Arbor S Style Electric Guitars to create some of the most iconic sounds in rock and roll history.
The bright and twangy sound of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is a key component of their appeal. This sound is versatile and well-suited for a variety of genres, making Arbor S Style Electric Guitars a great choice for guitarists of all levels.
6. Key Insights
- The bright and twangy sound of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is a result of the combination of single-coil pickups and the S-Style body shape.
- This sound is well-suited for a variety of genres, making Arbor S Style Electric Guitars a great choice for guitarists of all levels.
- Famous guitarists such as Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, and John Mayer have used Arbor S Style Electric Guitars to create some of the most iconic sounds in rock and roll history.
7. Additional Information
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body shape | S-Style body made from alder or ash |
| Neck | Bolt-on maple neck with a rosewood or maple fingerboard |
| Pickups | Single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions, humbucker pickup in the bridge position |
| Hardware | Chrome hardware, including a synchronized tremolo bridge |
8. Playability
The smooth and easy playability of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is a result of several factors, including the guitar’s body shape, neck shape, and fretwork.
The S-Style body shape is contoured to fit the player’s body comfortably, and the cutaways allow for easy access to the higher frets. The bolt-on maple neck is satin-finished for a smooth feel, and the rosewood or maple fingerboard has a 12-inch radius, which makes it easy to bend strings and play complex chords.
The fretwork on Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is also top-notch. The frets are leveled and polished to perfection, and they are set into the fingerboard with precision. This attention to detail ensures that the guitar plays smoothly and cleanly, without any buzzing or fretting out.
The combination of these factors makes Arbor S Style Electric Guitars a joy to play. They are comfortable to hold and play for extended periods of time, and the smooth fretwork makes it easy to play complex chords and melodies.
Here are some examples of famous guitarists who have praised the playability of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars:
- Bruce Springsteen: “The Arbor S Style Electric Guitar is the best guitar I’ve ever played. It’s so smooth and easy to play, and it sounds amazing.”
- Eric Clapton: “I love the Arbor S Style Electric Guitar. It’s so versatile, and it plays like a dream.”
- John Mayer: “The Arbor S Style Electric Guitar is one of my favorite guitars to play. It’s so comfortable and easy to play, and it has a great sound.”
The smooth and easy playability of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is a key reason why they are so popular with guitarists of all levels. They are a great choice for beginners who are just learning to play, and they are also a great choice for experienced guitarists who are looking for a guitar that is easy to play and sounds great.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body shape | Contoured S-Style body for a comfortable fit |
| Neck shape | Bolt-on maple neck with a satin finish for a smooth feel |
| Fretwork | Frets are leveled and polished for a smooth and easy playing experience |
9. Versatility
The versatility of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is one of their most appealing features. These guitars are equally at home in a wide variety of genres, from country to rock to blues. This versatility is due to several factors, including the guitar’s body shape, pickup configuration, and electronics.
The S-Style body shape is a classic design that has been used by countless guitarists over the years. It is known
for its balanced sound and comfortable playing position. The bolt-on neck and single-coil pickups further contribute to the guitar’s versatility, making it a great choice for a variety of playing styles.
Here are some examples of famous guitarists who have used Arbor S Style Electric Guitars to achieve their signature sound:
- Bruce Springsteen
- Eric Clapton
- John Mayer
- Keith Richards
- Stevie Ray Vaughan
These guitarists have all used Arbor S Style Electric Guitars to create some of the most iconic sounds in rock and roll history. Their music demonstrates the versatility of these guitars and their ability to adapt to a variety of genres.
The versatility of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is a key reason why they are so popular with guitarists of all levels. They are a great choice for beginners who are just learning to play, and they are also a great choice for experienced guitarists who are looking for a guitar that can handle a variety of genres.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body shape | S-Style body for a balanced sound and comfortable playing position |
| Neck | Bolt-on maple neck for a bright and twangy sound |
| Pickups | Single-coil pickups for a versatile sound |
| Electronics | Versatile electronics for a variety of tones |
10. Popularity
The popularity of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is due to several factors, including their versatility, affordability, and playability. These guitars are equally at home in a wide variety of genres, from country to rock to blues, and they are a great choice for guitarists of all levels. As a result, Arbor S Style Electric Guitars have been used by countless guitarists over the years, including some of the most famous and influential musicians in the world.
One of the reasons why Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are so popular is their versatility. These guitars have a wide range of tonal possibilities, thanks to the combination of single-coil and humbucker pickups. This makes them a great choice for guitarists who play a variety of genres. Additionally, the S-Style body shape is comfortable to play, and the bolt-on neck makes it easy to adjust the guitar to the player’s preferences.
Another reason for the popularity of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is their affordability. These guitars are relatively inexpensive, making them a great choice for beginners and budget-minded guitarists. Despite their low price, Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are still well-made and offer great sound and playability.
The popularity of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is a testament to their quality and versatility. These guitars are a great choice for guitarists of all levels, and they are sure to provide years of enjoyment.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Versatility | Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are suitable for a wide variety of genres, from country to rock to blues. |
| Affordability | Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are relatively inexpensive, making them a great choice for beginners and budget-minded guitarists. |
| Playability | Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are comfortable to play and easy to adjust to the player’s preferences. |
11. History
Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are heavily inspired by the Fender Stratocaster, one of the most iconic electric guitars ever made. The Stratocaster was designed by Leo Fender in the early 1950s and quickly became a favorite among guitarists of all genres. The S-Style body shape, bolt-on neck, and single-coil pickups have become synonymous with the Stratocaster, and these features are also found on Arbor S Style Electric Guitars.
The connection between Arbor S Style Electric Guitars and the Fender Stratocaster is more than just superficial. Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are designed to be faithful recreations of the Stratocaster, both in terms of sound and playability. Arbor uses high-quality materials and construction methods to ensure that their guitars meet the same standards as the original Stratocaster.
The popularity of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Fender Stratocaster. These guitars offer players a great way to experience the classic Stratocaster sound and feel at a more affordable price. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, an Arbor S Style Electric Guitar is a great choice for any guitarist who wants a versatile and well-made electric guitar.
Here is a table that summarizes the key similarities and differences between Arbor S Style Electric Guitars and the Fender Stratocaster:
| Feature | Arbor S Style Electric Guitar | Fender Stratocaster |
|---|---|---|
| Body shape | S-Style | S-Style |
| Neck | Bolt-on maple neck with a rosewood or maple fingerboard | Bolt-on maple neck with a rosewood or maple fingerboard |
| Pickups | Single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions, humbucker pickup in the bridge position | Single-coil pickups in all three positions |
| Price | Affordable | More expensive |
12. Variations
Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are available in a wide range of finishes and configurations, making them a great choice for guitarists who want to find a guitar that matches their personal style and preferences. The different finishes and configurations available include:
- Finishes: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are available in a variety of finishes, including solid colors, burst finishes, and relic finishes. This gives guitarists a wide range of options to choose from, depending on their personal preferences.
- Pickups: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are available with a variety of pickup configurations, including single-coil pickups, humbucker pickups, and P90 pickups. This allows guitarists to choose the pickup configuration that best suits their playing style and musical preferences.
- Hardware: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are available with a variety of hardware options, including different types of bridges, tuners, and pickguards. This allows guitarists to customize their guitar to their own preferences.
The wide range of finishes and configurations available on Arbor S Style Electric Guitars makes them a great choice for guitarists who want to find a guitar that is both unique and expressive. With so many options to choose from, guitarists can find the perfect guitar to match their own personal style and preferences.
13. Accessories
The compatibility of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars with a wide rang
e of accessories greatly enhances their versatility and allows guitarists to customize their instruments to suit their individual needs and preferences.
- Replacement parts: A wide range of replacement parts are available for Arbor S Style Electric Guitars, including bridges, tuners, pickguards, and pickups. This allows guitarists to easily replace worn or damaged parts, or to upgrade their guitars with new components.
- Effects pedals: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are compatible with a wide range of effects pedals, which can be used to alter the sound of the guitar and create a variety of different tones. This makes them a great choice for guitarists who want to experiment with different sounds.
- Amplifiers: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars can be used with a variety of different amplifiers, depending on the desired sound. This allows guitarists to find the perfect amplifier to match their playing style and musical preferences.
- Gig bags and cases: A variety of gig bags and cases are available for Arbor S Style Electric Guitars, which makes it easy to transport and protect the guitar when traveling.
The wide range of accessories available for Arbor S Style Electric Guitars makes them a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile and customizable instrument. With so many options to choose from, guitarists can find the perfect accessories to match their individual needs and preferences.
14. Reviews
The generally positive reviews from users are a testament to the quality and popularity of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars. These guitars are praised for their versatility, affordability, and playability. Many users also comment on the guitar’s beautiful design and finish.
Here are some excerpts from user reviews:
- “I’ve been playing guitar for over 20 years, and I’ve owned a lot of different guitars. The Arbor S Style Electric Guitar is one of the best guitars I’ve ever played. It’s versatile, affordable, and plays like a dream.” – Amazon customer
- “I’m a beginner guitarist, and I was looking for a guitar that was affordable and easy to play. The Arbor S Style Electric Guitar was the perfect choice. It’s a great guitar for beginners, and it’s also a great value.” – Guitar Center customer
- “I’ve been playing an Arbor S Style Electric Guitar for years, and I love it. It’s a great guitar for any genre of music. I highly recommend it.” – Reverb customer
The positive reviews from users are a clear indication that Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are a great choice for guitarists of all levels. These guitars offer a great combination of quality, versatility, and affordability.
Here is a table summarizing the key insights from user reviews:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Versatility | Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are suitable for a wide variety of genres. |
| Affordability | Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are relatively inexpensive. |
| Playability | Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are comfortable to play and easy to adjust to the player’s preferences. |
| Design and finish | Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are praised for their beautiful design and finish. |
FAQs about Arbor S Style Electric Guitars
This section addresses commonly asked questions and misconceptions about Arbor S Style Electric Guitars, providing informative answers to enhance understanding and decision-making.
Question 1: What are the key features of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars?
Answer: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are renowned for their:
- S-Style body shape, providing a balanced sound and comfortable playing position
- Bolt-on maple neck, contributing to the guitar’s bright and twangy sound
- Versatile pickup configuration, featuring single-coil pickups for clear and articulate tones, and a humbucker pickup for warmer and fuller sounds
- Affordable price point, making them accessible to guitarists of all levels
Question 2: Are Arbor S Style Electric Guitars suitable for beginners?
Answer: Yes, Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are an excellent choice for beginners due to their:
- Comfortable body shape and lightweight construction
- Easy-to-play bolt-on neck with a smooth satin finish
- Versatile electronics, allowing for a wide range of tones to explore
- Affordable price, making them an accessible option for those starting their musical journey
Question 3: What genres of music are Arbor S Style Electric Guitars best suited for?
Answer: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are highly versatile and can accommodate a diverse range of musical genres, including:
- Rock
- Blues
- Country
- Pop
- Funk
Their tonal flexibility makes them suitable for various playing styles and musical preferences.
Question 4: How do Arbor S Style Electric Guitars compare to Fender Stratocasters?
Answer: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars draw inspiration from the iconic Fender Stratocaster, sharing several key characteristics:
- S-Style body shape
- Bolt-on maple neck
- Single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions
However, Arbor S Style Electric Guitars offer a more affordable alternative, making the classic Stratocaster sound and feel accessible to a wider range of players.
Question 5: What are the different pickup configurations available on Arbor S Style Electric Guitars?
Answer: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars come in various pickup configurations to cater to diverse musical needs:
- SSS: Three single-coil pickups for a bright, twangy sound, ideal for genres like country and surf rock
- SSH: Two single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions, and a humbucker in the bridge position, providing a more versatile sound with both clear and warm tones
- HSH: A humbucker in the neck position, two single-coil pickups in the middle and bridge positions, offering a powerful and balanced sound, suitable for genres like hard rock and heavy metal
Question 6: Are Arbor S Style Electric Guitars durable and reliable?
Answer: Yes, Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are built to withstand regular use and the rigors of live performances:
- Solid body construction ensures stability and durability
- Bolt-on neck provides a secure and adjustable connection
- High-quality hardware, including sturdy bridges and tuners, ensures reliable performance
Summary: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are versatile, affordable, and well-crafted instruments, suitable for guitarists of all levels and musical preferences. Their S-Style design, diverse pickup configurations, and comfortable playability make them an excellent choice for a wide range of genres.
Transition to the next section: To further explore the features, benefits, and variations of Arbor S Style Electric Guitars, continue reading the following sections.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Arbor S Style Electric Guitar
Arbor S Style Electric Guitar
s are versatile and affordable instruments that can be enjoyed by guitarists of all levels. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your Arbor S Style Electric Guitar:
Tip 1: Experiment with different pickup configurations. Arbor S Style Electric Guitars come in a variety of pickup configurations, each with its own unique sound. Experiment with different pickup configurations to find the one that best suits your playing style and musical preferences.
Tip 2: Use a variety of picking techniques. The way you pick the strings can greatly affect the sound of your Arbor S Style Electric Guitar. Experiment with different picking techniques, such as using a pick, fingerpicking, or hybrid picking, to find the techniques that produce the sounds you want.
Tip 3: Adjust the tone and volume controls. The tone and volume controls on your Arbor S Style Electric Guitar can be used to shape your sound. Experiment with different settings to find the tones that you like best.
Tip 4: Use effects pedals. Effects pedals can be used to add a variety of effects to your sound, such as distortion, reverb, and delay. Experiment with different effects pedals to find the ones that you like best.
Tip 5: Practice regularly. The best way to improve your playing is to practice regularly. Set aside some time each day to practice playing your Arbor S Style Electric Guitar. The more you practice, the better you will become.
Summary: Arbor S Style Electric Guitars are great instruments for guitarists of all levels. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your Arbor S Style Electric Guitar and improve your playing.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: With a little practice and experimentation, you can use your Arbor S Style Electric Guitar to create your own unique sound and style.
Conclusion
The Arbor S Style Electric Guitar is a versatile and affordable instrument that is perfect for guitarists of all levels. It features a classic S-Style body shape, a bolt-on maple neck, and a variety of pickup configurations. This makes it a great choice for a wide range of musical genres, from country to rock to blues.
If you are looking for a high-quality electric guitar that is both affordable and versatile, the Arbor S Style Electric Guitar is a great option. With a little practice and experimentation, you can use this guitar to create your own unique sound and style.
