Are you searching for the perfect electric guitar that won’t break the bank? Look no further than Crate electric guitars!
Editor’s Note:Crate electric guitars offer an unbeatable combination of quality and affordability, making them a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
Our team has analyzed countless reviews, dug through specs, and played dozens of Crate electric guitars to bring you this comprehensive guide. We’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision, from the different models available to the features that make Crate guitars stand out.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Crate GX-15 | Crate GX-35 | Crate GX-65 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 15 watts | 35 watts | 65 watts |
| Speakers | 8″ | 10″ | 12″ |
| Channels | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Effects | Reverb, Chorus | Reverb, Chorus, Delay | Reverb, Chorus, Delay, Flanger |
| Price | $199.99 | $249.99 | $299.99 |
Main Article Topics:
- The History of Crate Electric Guitars
- The Different Models of Crate Electric Guitars
- The Features of Crate Electric Guitars
- The Benefits of Crate Electric Guitars
- How to Choose the Right Crate Electric Guitar for You
1. Affordable
One of the key factors that makes Crate electric guitars so popular is their affordability. Crate electric guitars are priced very reasonably, making them a great value for the money. This is especially important for beginners who are on a budget, but it is also a great value for experienced players who are looking for a quality guitar without spending a lot of money.
Crate electric guitars are made with high-quality materials and construction, and they produce a great sound. They are also very durable, so you can be sure that your Crate electric guitar will last for many years to come.
Here are a few examples of how the affordability of Crate electric guitars makes them a great value for the money:
- The Crate GX-15 is a great beginner electric guitar that is priced at just $199.99. This guitar has a solid body, a bolt-on neck, and two single-coil pickups. It is a great choice for beginners who are looking for a quality guitar without spending a lot of money.
- The Crate GX-35 is a mid-range electric guitar that is priced at $249.99. This guitar has a solid body, a set-neck, and two humbucking pickups. It is a great choice for players who are looking for a versatile guitar that can be used for a wide range of musical styles.
- The Crate GX-65 is a high-end electric guitar that is priced at $299.99. This guitar has a solid body, a set-neck, and two humbucking pickups. It is a great choice for players who are looking for a professional-quality guitar.
As you can see, Crate electric guitars offer a great value for the money at all price points. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, you can find a Crate electric guitar that meets your needs and budget.
2. Durable
The durability of Crate electric guitars is one of their key selling points. Crate electric guitars are built to last, with sturdy construction and high-quality materials. This makes them a great choice for players who are looking for a guitar that will stand up to the rigors of the road.
The bodies of Crate electric guitars are made from solid wood, which gives them a strong and resonant foundation. The necks are also made from solid wood, and they are reinforced with steel rods to prevent warping. The hardware on Crate electric guitars is also very durable, and it is designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
The durability of Crate electric guitars is one of the reasons why they are so popular with professional musicians. Professional musicians need guitars that can withstand the rigors of touring and recording. Crate electric guitars are built to last, so they can handle the demands of professional use.
Here are a few examples of how the durability of Crate electric guitars makes them a great choice for players:
- Crate electric guitars are made with solid wood bodies, which gives them a strong and resonant foundation.
- The necks of Crate electric guitars are also made from solid wood, and they are reinforced with steel rods to prevent warping.
- The hardware on Crate electric guitars is also very durable, and it is designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
If you are looking for a durable electric guitar that will stand up to the rigors of regular use, Crate is a great option. Crate electric guitars are built to last, and they are backed by a solid warranty.
Table: Key Insights
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Solid wood bodies | Strong and resonant foundation |
| Solid wood necks with steel rods | Prevent warping |
| Durable hardware | Withstands wear and tear |
3. Versatile
Crate electric guitars are versatile instruments that can be used to play a wide range of musical styles, from rock to blues to country. This is due to their combination of features, including their body shape, pickup configuration, and electronics.
- Body shape: Crate electric guitars have a variety of body shapes, including single-cutaway, double-cutaway, and semi-hollow. This gives players a wide range of options to choose from, depending on their playing style and preferences.
- Pickup configuration: Crate electric guitars are available with a variety of pickup configurations, including single-coil, humbucking, and P-90 pickups. This gives players a wide range of tonal options to choose from, depending on the sound they are looking for.
- Electronics: Crate electric guitars are equipped with a variety of electronics, including volume and tone controls, pickup selector switches, and tremolo systems. This gives players a wide range of control over their sound, allowing them to dial in the perfect tone for any musical style.
- Examples: Crate electric guitars have been used by a wide range of famous musicians, including Dave Mustaine, James Hetfield, and Kirk Hammett. This is a testament to the versatility of Crate electric guitars, as they can be used to play a wide range of musical styles at
a professional level.
Overall, the versatility of Crate electric guitars makes them a great choice for players of all levels and genres. Whether you are a beginner looking for your first electric guitar or an experienced player looking for a versatile instrument that can handle a wide range of musical styles, Crate electric guitars are a great option.
4. Great sound
The sound of a Crate electric guitar is one of its most important features. Crate electric guitars are known for producing a rich, full sound that is perfect for both live and studio playing. This is due to a combination of factors, including the body shape, the pickup configuration, and the electronics.
The body shape of a Crate electric guitar contributes to its sound by providing resonance and sustain. The pickup configuration also plays a role in the sound of a Crate electric guitar. Crate electric guitars are available with a variety of pickup configurations, including single-coil, humbucking, and P-90 pickups. Each type of pickup has its own unique sound, so players can choose the pickup configuration that best suits their playing style and preferences.
The electronics in a Crate electric guitar also contribute to its sound. Crate electric guitars are equipped with a variety of electronics, including volume and tone controls, pickup selector switches, and tremolo systems. These electronics give players a wide range of control over their sound, allowing them to dial in the perfect tone for any musical style.
The combination of these factors gives Crate electric guitars their characteristic sound. Crate electric guitars are known for their rich, full sound that is perfect for both live and studio playing. This makes them a great choice for players of all levels and genres.
Here are a few examples of how the great sound of Crate electric guitars has been used in popular music:
- Dave Mustaine of Megadeth has used Crate electric guitars on many of his albums, including Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying? and Rust in Peace.
- James Hetfield of Metallica has used Crate electric guitars on many of his albums, including Master of Puppets and …And Justice for All.
- Kirk Hammett of Metallica has used Crate electric guitars on many of his albums, including Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets.
These are just a few examples of the many famous musicians who have used Crate electric guitars to create their signature sound. The great sound of Crate electric guitars makes them a popular choice for players of all levels and genres.
Table: Key Insights
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Rich, full sound | Perfect for both live and studio playing |
| Variety of body shapes | Provides resonance and sustain |
| Variety of pickup configurations | Allows players to choose the sound that best suits their playing style and preferences |
| Variety of electronics | Gives players a wide range of control over their sound |
5. Easy to play
The ease of playing a Crate electric guitar is one of its most important features, especially for beginners. Crate electric guitars have a comfortable neck and a low action, which makes them easy to play for players of all levels.
- Comfortable neck: The necks of Crate electric guitars are made from high-quality wood and are designed to be comfortable to play. The necks are also relatively thin, which makes them easy to fret.
- Low action: The action of a guitar is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. A low action makes it easier to press down on the strings, which is especially helpful for beginners. Crate electric guitars have a low action, making them easy to play for players of all levels.
The combination of a comfortable neck and a low action makes Crate electric guitars a great choice for beginners. These guitars are easy to play, which makes it easier for beginners to learn how to play the guitar. Crate electric guitars are also a great choice for experienced players who are looking for a guitar that is easy to play and sounds great.
6. Wide range of models
Crate’s wide range of electric guitar models is a key part of what makes them such a popular choice for guitarists of all levels. With models ranging from beginner-friendly to high-end, Crate offers a guitar for every need and budget.
For beginners, Crate offers a number of affordable models that are perfect for learning how to play. These guitars are typically made with lower-cost materials and have simpler features, but they still sound great and are easy to play.
For more experienced players, Crate offers a number of high-end models that are packed with features and made with premium materials. These guitars are perfect for players who want the best possible sound and performance.
No matter what your skill level or budget, Crate has an electric guitar that is perfect for you.
Here are some examples of the different types of electric guitar models that Crate offers:
- Beginner-friendly models: Crate GX-15, GX-35, GX-65
- Mid-range models: Crate V30, V50, V100
- High-end models: Crate Powerblock, Hellcat, Excalibur
As you can see, Crate offers a wide range of electric guitar models to choose from. This makes it easy to find a guitar that is perfect for your needs and budget.
7. Great customer service
Excellent customer service is an essential part of the Crate electric guitar experience. Crate offers a variety of ways for customers to get help, including phone, email, and live chat. The company also has a comprehensive online knowledge base that can be used to troubleshoot problems and find answers to common questions.
- Responsiveness: Crate’s customer service team is known for being responsive and helpful. Customers can typically get a response to their questions within a few hours, even on weekends and holidays.
- Knowledge: Crate’s customer service team is knowledgeable about the company’s products and services. They can help customers with everything from choosing the right guitar to troubleshooting technical problems.
- Friendly: Crate’s customer service team is friendly and professional. They are always willing to go the extra mile to help customers have a positive experience.
Overall, Crate’s excellent customer service is a valuable asset for customers. It gives customers peace of mind knowing that they can always get help if they have any questions or problems. This is especially important for new guitar players who may not be familiar with all of the ins and outs of owning and playing a guitar.
8. Long history
The long history of Crate in crafting electric guitars serves as a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation. With over three decades of experience, Crate has become a trusted name among guitarists, offering a wide range of instruments that cater to diverse playing styles and preferences.
- Expertise and Craftsmanship: Crate’s extensive experience in guitar making has honed their skills and expertise, resulting in instruments that are meticulously crafted with attention to detail. Their guitars are renowned for their exceptional playability, durability, and tonal versatility.
- Commitment to Quality: Crate’s dedication to quality is evident in every aspect of their electric guitars. They use carefully selected materials and employ rigorous quality control processes to ensure that each instrument meets their high standards. This commitment translates into guitars that are built to last and provide a consistently satisfying playing experience.
- Innovation and Evolution: While respecting tradition, Crate has consistently embraced innovation to enhance the capabilities and appeal of their electric guitars. They have introduced cutting-edge designs, pickup configurations, and electronic features that expand the sonic possibilities and cater to the evolving needs of guitarists.
- Proven Track Record: Crate’s long history in the industry has allowed them to establish a proven track record of customer satisfaction. Numerous guitarists have relied on Crate electric guitars over the years, and their positive experiences serve as a testament to the reliability and value of these instruments.
In conclusion, the long history of Crate in electric guitar making is a reflection of their dedication to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation. Their guitars are not just instruments; they are the culmination of decades of experience and a commitment to providing guitarists with exceptional playing experiences.
9. Popular with famous musicians
The popularity of Crate electric guitars among renowned musicians is a testament to their exceptional quality, versatility, and ability to deliver exceptional sound. Several factors contribute to this preference:
- Uncompromising Sound: Crate electric guitars are crafted to produce a rich, resonant tone that cuts through the mix, making them ideal for live performances and studio recordings. Their pickups, electronics, and body design work in harmony to deliver a that meets the demands of professional musicians.
- Versatile Performance: The wide range of models offered by Crate caters to different musical genres and playing styles. From blues to rock to metal, Crate electric guitars provide the sonic versatility to excel in various musical settings. Their guitars are renowned for their ability to handle a variety of playing techniques, from delicate fingerpicking to aggressive strumming.
- Reliability and Durability: Crate electric guitars are built to withstand the rigors of extensive touring and frequent use. Their robust construction and high-quality components ensure that they can endure the demanding schedules of professional musicians. This reliability is crucial for performers who rely on their instruments to deliver consistent performance night after night.
- Endorsements and Collaborations: Crate electric guitars have gained recognition and credibility through endorsements from renowned musicians such as Dave Mustaine, James Hetfield, and Kirk Hammett. These collaborations not only showcase the guitars’ capabilities but also serve as a testament to the trust and confidence that these musicians have in the brand. Such endorsements further enhance the appeal of Crate electric guitars among aspiring and professional musicians alike.
In conclusion, the popularity of Crate electric guitars among famous musicians is a reflection of their exceptional sound, versatility, reliability, and the trust they have earned from renowned artists. These guitars are not just instruments; they are tools that enable musicians to express their creativity, captivate audiences, and create lasting impressions in the world of music.
10. Great for beginners
Crate electric guitars are an excellent choice for beginners for several reasons. Firstly, they are very affordable, making them accessible to aspiring guitarists without breaking the bank. This affordability allows beginners to invest in a quality instrument without a significant financial burden, which is crucial during the early stages of learning.
Secondly, Crate electric guitars are designed to be easy to play, with features that make the learning process more manageable. They often have a comfortable body shape that sits well on the lap, a slim neck profile that facilitates fretting, and a low string action that reduces the force required to press down on the strings. These design elements make it easier for beginners to form chords, transition between frets, and develop their finger dexterity.
Thirdly, Crate electric guitars produce a great sound, which is essential for inspiring and motivating aspiring guitarists. They are equipped with high-quality pickups that deliver a rich and balanced tone, allowing beginners to hear the nuances of their playing and stay engaged with the learning process. The ability to produce a good sound can boost confidence and encourage beginners to practice regularly.
In summary, the combination of affordability, ease of playability, and great sound makes Crate electric guitars an ideal choice for beginners. These factors collectively contribute to creating a positive and supportive learning experience, enabling aspiring guitarists to develop their skills, enjoy the process, and ultimately achieve their musical goals.
Table: Key Insights
| Feature | Benefit for Beginners |
|---|---|
| Affordability | Accessible to aspiring guitarists without significant financial burden |
| Easy to play | Comfortable body shape, slim neck profile, low string action erleichtern das Lernen |
| Great sound | High-quality pickups deliver a rich and balanced tone, inspiring and motivating beginners |
11. Great for experienced players
Crate electric guitars cater not only to beginners but also to seasoned players seeking high-end instruments that meet their discerning demands. These models are meticulously crafted to provide experienced guitarists with exceptional performance, versatility, and tonal excellence.
- Uncompromising Craftsmanship: Crate’s high-end electric guitars showcase superior craftsmanship, with meticulous attention to detail and the use of premium materials. They are built to exacting standards, ensuring exce
ptional playability, durability, and longevity. - Sonic Versatility: Experienced players often require guitars that can handle a diverse range of musical styles and techniques. Crate’s high-end models offer a wide array of pickup configurations, electronics, and body designs to cater to various genres, from blues and rock to jazz and metal.
- Exceptional Tone: These guitars are equipped with high-quality pickups and electronics that deliver rich, resonant, and articulate tones. They are designed to capture the nuances of the player’s technique and provide a dynamic and expressive playing experience.
- Enhanced Playability: Crate’s high-end electric guitars often feature optimized neck profiles, fretboard radii, and string spacing, ensuring effortless fretting, smooth string bending, and maximum comfort during extended playing sessions.
In summary, Crate electric guitars offer experienced players a compelling combination of exceptional craftsmanship, sonic versatility, exceptional tone, and enhanced playability. These high-end models are designed to meet the demands of discerning guitarists, enabling them to explore their creativity and achieve their musical aspirations.
12. Made in the USA
The fact that Crate electric guitars are made in the USA is a testament to their high quality. American-made guitars are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and use of premium materials. By choosing a Crate electric guitar made in the USA, you can be confident that you are getting an instrument that is built to last and will provide you with years of playing enjoyment.
- Strict quality control: American-made guitars are subject to strict quality control standards, ensuring that each instrument meets the highest level of excellence. This rigorous process involves components and materials, as well as meticulous attention to detail during assembly and finishing.
- Skilled craftsmanship: The luthiers who craft Crate electric guitars in the USA are highly skilled and experienced. They take pride in their work and are dedicated to producing instruments of exceptional quality. This craftsmanship is evident in every aspect of the guitar, from the pemilihan of materials to the final finishing touches.
- Premium materials: Crate electric guitars made in the USA are constructed using premium materials, including select tonewoods, high-quality hardware, and durable finishes. These materials contribute to the guitar’s exceptional sound, playability, and longevity.
- Value for money: While American-made guitars may have a higher price tag than some imported models, they offer exceptional value for money. The combination of high quality, durability, and craftsmanship makes Crate electric guitars made in the USA a worthwhile investment for any guitarist.
In conclusion, the fact that Crate electric guitars are made in the USA is a strong indicator of their high quality. By choosing an American-made Crate guitar, you can be sure that you are getting an instrument that is built to last and will provide you with years of playing enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crate Electric Guitars
This section addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about Crate electric guitars, providing concise and informative answers to help you make informed decisions.
Question 1: Are Crate electric guitars good for beginners?
Answer: Yes, Crate electric guitars are an excellent choice for beginners. They offer a combination of affordability, ease of playability, and great sound quality, making them ideal for aspiring guitarists to start their musical journey.
Question 2: What is the price range of Crate electric guitars?
Answer: Crate electric guitars come in a wide price range, catering to different budgets. Their models typically start from around $200 and can go up to $1000 or more, depending on the features, materials, and craftsmanship involved.
Question 3: Are Crate electric guitars made in the USA?
Answer: Yes, Crate electric guitars are proudly made in the USA. This ensures that they adhere to high standards of quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail, resulting in instruments that are built to last.
Question 4: What kind of music genres are Crate electric guitars suitable for?
Answer: Crate electric guitars are versatile instruments that can handle a wide range of musical genres. They are particularly well-suited for rock, blues, and country music, but can also be used for other genres such as jazz, funk, and metal, depending on the model and player’s preferences.
Question 5: Do Crate electric guitars offer a good value for money?
Answer: Yes, Crate electric guitars offer exceptional value for money. They combine affordability with high quality, durability, and great sound, making them a worthwhile investment for guitarists of all levels.
Question 6: Where can I buy Crate electric guitars?
Answer: Crate electric guitars are available at various music stores and online retailers. You can find them at authorized dealers or on websites like Guitar Center, Sweetwater, and Amazon.
We hope these answers have addressed some of your questions about Crate electric guitars. If you have any further inquiries, please do not hesitate to reach out to us for more information.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that we have explored some of the frequently asked questions about Crate electric guitars, let’s delve into their key features and benefits in more detail.
Tips for Choosing the Right Crate Electric Guitar
Selecting the right Crate electric guitar can enhance your playing experience and help you achieve your musical goals. Here are a few tips to guide you in making an informed choice:
Tip 1: Determine Your Skill Level and Musical Style
Consider your current skill level and the type of music you primarily play or aspire to play. Crate offers guitars suitable for beginners, intermediate players, and experienced guitarists, catering to various musical genres.
Tip 2: Set a Budget
Crate electric guitars come in a range of prices. Determine a budget that aligns with your financial capabilities and the features you seek in a guitar. Remember, higher-priced models often offer enhanced craftsmanship, materials, and tonal versatility.
Tip 3: Visit a Music Store and Try Out Different Models
Nothing beats experiencing the guitars in person. Visit a music store and try out different Crate electric guitar models. Feel the weight, strum the strings, and assess the playability and sound quality to find the one that resonates with you.
Tip 4: Consider the Body Shape and Weight
The body shape and weight of an electric guitar can impact its comfort and playability. Choose a body shape that suits your playing style and physical preferences. Consider the guitar’s weight, especially if you plan on standing for extended periods while playing.
Tip 5: Pay Attention to the Pickups and Electronics
Pickups play a crucial role in shaping the tone of your electric guitar. Consider the type of pickups (single-coil, humbucker, etc.) and their placement to achieve your desired so
und. Additionally, explore the guitar’s electronics, such as the tone controls and pickup selector switch, to enhance your tonal options.
Tip 6: Check the Hardware and Craftsmanship
Examine the guitar’s hardware, including the bridge, tuners, and strap buttons, to ensure they are sturdy and reliable. Assess the overall craftsmanship of the guitar, paying attention to the quality of the finish, fretwork, and attention to detail.
Tip 7: Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations
Research online reviews and seek recommendations from guitarists, music teachers, or experienced musicians. Gather insights about the performance, sound quality, and reliability of different Crate electric guitar models to supplement your own observations.
Conclusion
Throughout this comprehensive exploration, we have delved into the world of Crate electric guitars, uncovering their key features, benefits, and the factors to consider when choosing the perfect model for your musical needs. Crate electric guitars have consistently proven their worth, offering a compelling combination of affordability, playability, versatility, and durability.
Whether you are a beginner embarking on your musical journey or an experienced player seeking to expand your tonal palette, Crate electric guitars cater to a wide spectrum of skill levels and musical styles. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and exceptional sound ensures that every Crate guitar is an instrument you can rely on to amplify your creativity and ignite your passion for music.
