When it comes to electric guitars, few brands are as iconic and respected as Hamer. For over 40 years, Hamer guitars have been the choice of countless professional musicians, from Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page to Slash and Joe Bonamassa.
Editor’s Note: Hamer electric guitars are known for their exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and tone. They are a popular choice for professional musicians and discerning guitarists alike.
In this guide, we will take a closer look at Hamer electric guitars, exploring their history, construction, and sound. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right Hamer guitar for your needs.
| Feature | Hamer Electric Guitars |
|---|---|
| Body | Solid mahogany or maple with a carved top |
| Neck | Mahogany or maple with a rosewood or ebony fretboard |
| Pickups | Seymour Duncan or EMG humbuckers |
| Bridge | Floyd Rose or Tune-o-matic |
Main Article Topics
- The History of Hamer Guitars
- The Construction of Hamer Guitars
- The Sound of Hamer Guitars
- How to Choose the Right Hamer Guitar for Your Needs
1. Body
The body of a Hamer electric guitar is typically made from solid mahogany or maple, with a carved top. This combination of woods provides a warm, resonant tone with plenty of sustain. The carved top helps to focus the sound and increase the guitar’s projection.Mahogany is a dense wood with a rich, warm tone. It is often used in the bodies of electric guitars because it provides a good balance of sustain, warmth, and clarity. Maple is a harder wood with a brighter, more articulate tone. It is often used in the bodies of electric guitars because it provides good sustain and clarity, and it helps to cut through the mix.The carved top on a Hamer electric guitar helps to focus the sound and increase the guitar’s projection. The carved top also gives the guitar a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between mahogany and maple bodies:
| Wood | Tone | Sustain | Clarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahogany | Warm, resonant | Good | Good |
| Maple | Bright, articulate | Good | Excellent |
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of body wood is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what sounds and feels best to you.
Some of the most famous Hamer electric guitars include the Standard, the Special, and the Artist. These guitars have been used by countless professional musicians, including Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Slash, and Joe Bonamassa.
2. Neck
The neck of a Hamer electric guitar is typically made from mahogany or maple, with a rosewood or ebony fretboard. This combination of woods provides a comfortable playing experience and a warm, resonant tone.
- Mahogany necks are known for their warm, rich tone and comfortable feel. They are a popular choice for blues and rock guitarists.
- Maple necks are known for their brighter, more articulate tone. They are a popular choice for country and jazz guitarists.
- Rosewood fretboards are known for their warm, mellow tone and smooth feel. They are a popular choice for all types of guitarists.
- Ebony fretboards are known for their bright, articulate tone and smooth feel. They are a popular choice for metal and rock guitarists.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of neck wood and fretboard material is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what sounds and feels best to you.
3. Pickups
The pickups in an electric guitar are responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. This signal is then amplified and sent to the guitar’s output jack, where it is connected to an amplifier. The type of pickups used in a guitar can have a significant impact on the sound of the guitar.
Hamer electric guitars are typically equipped with Seymour Duncan or EMG humbuckers. Seymour Duncan humbuckers are known for their warm, vintage tone, while EMG humbuckers are known for their high output and aggressive sound. Both types of pickups are popular choices for Hamer guitars, and the choice of which type to use depends on the desired sound.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between Seymour Duncan and EMG humbuckers:
| Feature | Seymour Duncan Humbuckers | EMG Humbuckers |
|---|---|---|
| Output | Medium to high | High |
| Tone | Warm, vintage | Aggressive, modern |
| Popularity | Used by Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Slash, and Joe Bonamassa | Used by Zakk Wylde, James Hetfield, and Dimebag Darrell |
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of pickups is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what sounds best to you.
4. Bridge
The bridge of a guitar is an important component that affects the guitar’s sound, playability, and tuning stability. Hamer electric guitars are available with two different types of bridges: Floyd Rose and Tune-o-matic.
- Floyd Rose bridge
The Floyd Rose bridge is a floating tremolo bridge that allows the player to bend the strings in either direction without going out of tune. This type of bridge is popular with guitarists who play heavy metal and other genres that require extensive use of the tremolo bar. - Tune-o-matic bridge
The Tune-o-matic bridge is a fixed bridge that does not allow the player to bend the strings in either direction. This type of bridge is popular with guitarists who play blues, rock, and other genres that do not require extensive use of the tremolo bar.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of bridge is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you.
5. Hardware
The hardware on a Hamer electric guitar is typically chrome or black. The choice of hardware color is a matter of personal preference, but there are some practical considerations to keep in mind.
Chrome hardware is more reflective than black hardware, so it can be more noticeable on stage. This can be a good thing if you want your guitar to stand out, but it can also be a distraction if you prefer a more understated look.
Black hardware is less reflective than chrome hardware, so it can be a good choice if you want your guitar to blend in more with your outfit or the rest of your band. Black hardware is also less likely to show fingerprints and other smudges, so it can be a good choice if you are not diligent about cleaning your guitar.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which hardware color is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what looks and feels best to you.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between chrome and black hardware:
| Feature | Chrome Hardware | Black Hardware |
|---|---|---|
| Reflectivity | High | Low |
| Visibility | More noticeable | Less noticeable |
| Fingerprint resistance | Low | High |
6. Finish
The finish of a Hamer electric guitar can have a significant impact on the guitar’s appearance, feel, and sound. Hamer guitars are available with either a gloss or satin finish.
- Gloss finish
A gloss finish is a high-gloss finish that gives the guitar a shiny, reflective appearance. Gloss finishes are popular on Hamer guitars because they make the guitar look more luxurious and expensive. They are also more durable than satin finishes and are less likely to show scratches and fingerprints.
- Satin finish
A satin finish is a low-gloss finish that gives the guitar a more matte, natural appearance. Satin finishes are popular on Hamer guitars because they make the guitar feel more comfortable to play and are less likely to stick to the player’s skin. They are also less reflective than gloss finishes, which can be beneficial for players who want to avoid glare on stage.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which finish is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what looks and feels best to you.
7. Scale length
The scale length of a guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. It is an important factor that affects the guitar’s sound, feel, and playability. Hamer electric guitars are available with two different scale lengths: 24.75″ and 25.5″.
- 24.75″ scale length
A 24.75″ scale length is the more traditional scale length for electric guitars. It is found on many classic guitars, such as the Fender Stratocaster and the Gibson Les Paul. A 24.75″ scale length provides a good balance of tone, feel, and playability.
- 25.5″ scale length
A 25.5″ scale length is a slightly longer scale length that is often found on modern electric guitars. It provides a brighter, tighter sound with more sustain. A 25.5″ scale length can be beneficial for players who want to play faster and more technical solos.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which scale length is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you.
8. Nut width
The nut width of a guitar is the distance between the inside edges of the nut slots. It is an important factor that affects the guitar’s playability, especially for players with small or large hands. Hamer electric guitars are available with two different nut widths: 1.625″ and 1.6875″.
- 1.625″ nut width
A 1.625″ nut width is the more traditional nut width for electric guitars. It is found on many classic guitars, such as the Fender Stratocaster and the Gibson Les Paul. A 1.625″ nut width provides a good balance of playability and comfort for most players.
- 1.6875″ nut width
A 1.6875″ nut width is a slightly wider nut width that is often found on modern electric guitars. It provides a bit more space between the strings, which can be beneficial for players with larger hands or who prefer a wider string spacing. A 1.6875″ nut width can also be beneficial for players who play in alternate tunings, as it provides more room for the strings to move without going out of tune.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which nut width is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you.
9. Weight
The weight of a guitar is an important factor that affects its playability, comfort, and tone. Hamer electric guitars typically weigh between 7 and 9 pounds, which is a good weight for most players. Guitars that are too heavy can be uncomfortable to play, especially when standing up for long periods of time. Guitars that are too light can be more difficult to control and may produce a thinner, less resonant tone.
The weight of a guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the body wood, the neck wood, the hardware, and the pickups. Hamer electric guitars are typically made from mahogany or maple, which are both relatively heavy woods. The neck is also typically made from mahogany or maple, and the hardware is typically made from chrome or black nickel. The pickups are typically humbuckers, which are also relatively heavy.
The weight of a guitar can have a significant impact on its tone. Heavier guitars tend to have a warmer, more resonant tone, while lighter guitars tend to have a brighter, more articulate tone. The weight of a guitar can also affect its sustain, with heavier guitars typically having more sustain than lighter guitars.
Ultimately, the best way to decide what weight is right for you is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you. However, as a general rule of thumb, Hamer electric guitars are a good choice for players who are looking for a guitar that is well-balanced and comfortable to play.
10. Weight Comparison Table
| Guitar Model | Weight (lbs.) |
|---|---|
| Hamer Standard | 7.5 |
| Hamer Special | 8.0 |
| Hamer Artist | 8.5 |
11. Price
The price of a Hamer electric guitar can vary depending on a number of factors, including the model, the materials used, and the hardware. However, most Hamer electric guitars fall within the price range of $1,500-$3,000. This price range reflects the high quality of materials and craftsmanship that goes into each Hamer guitar.
The high price of Hamer electric guitars is justified by their exceptional quality. Hamer guitars are made from premium materials, such as mahogany, maple, and rosewood. They also feature high-quality hardware, such as Seymour Duncan pickups and Floyd Rose bridges. This combination of high-quality materials and craftsmanship results in a guitar that is both durable and great sounding.
While the price of a Hamer electric guitar may be higher than some other brands, it is important to remember that you are getting what you pay for. Hamer guitars are built to last and they sound amazing. If you are looking for a high-quality electric guitar that will give you years of enjoyment, then a Hamer guitar is a great option.
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Hamer Standard | $1,500 |
| Hamer Special | $2,000 |
| Hamer Artist | $2,500 |
| Hamer Custom | $3,000 |
12. Popularity
The popularity of Hamer electric guitars is due in no small part to the fact that they have been used by some of the most famous and influential guitarists in rock and roll history. Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Slash, and Joe Bonamassa are just a few of the many guitarists who have played Hamer guitars on stage and in the studio.
- Endorsements and Signature Models
Hamer has a long history of working with famous guitarists to develop signature models. These models are designed to meet the specific needs and preferences of the artist, and they often feature unique features and appointments. For example, the Hamer Jeff Beck Signature Model features a unique body shape and a Seymour Duncan JB pickup in the bridge position. The Hamer Jimmy Page Signature Model features a maple top and a mahogany body, and it is equipped with a set of Gibson Burstbucker pickups.
- Tone and Playability
Hamer guitars are known for their exceptional tone and playability. The guitars are made from high-quality materials, and they are built to exacting standards. The result is a guitar that sounds great and feels great to play.
- Durability
Hamer guitars are built to last. The guitars are made from solid woods, and they are equipped with high-quality hardware. This makes them ideal for professional musicians who need a guitar that can withstand the rigors of touring and recording.
- Value
Hamer guitars are a good value for the money. The guitars are made from high-quality materials, and they are built to exacting standards. This makes them a good investment for musicians who are looking for a guitar that will last for many years.
The popularity of Hamer electric guitars is due to a combination of factors, including the guitars’ exceptional tone, playability, durability, and value. These guitars are used by some of the most famous and influential guitarists in rock and roll history, and they are a great choice for any musician who is looking for a high-quality electric guitar.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hamer Electric Guitars
In this section, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Hamer electric guitars.
Question 1: What is the best Hamer electric guitar for beginners?
Answer: The Hamer Standard is a great option for beginners. It is an affordable guitar that is well-made and has a great sound.
Question 2: What is the difference between a Hamer Standard and a Hamer Special?
Answer: The Hamer Standard is a more traditional electric guitar, while the Hamer Special has a more modern design. The Special also has a few more features than the Standard, such as a Floyd Rose bridge and a set of Seymour Duncan humbuckers.
Question 3: What type of music is a Hamer electric guitar best suited for?
Answer: Hamer electric guitars are versatile instruments that can be used to play a wide variety of music genres. However, they are particularly well-suited for rock, blues, and country music.
Question 4: Are Hamer electric guitars good for professional musicians?
Answer: Yes, Hamer electric guitars are used by many professional musicians. They are well-made guitars that have a great sound and feel.
Question 5: How much do Hamer electric guitars cost?
Answer: The price of a Hamer electric guitar varies depending on the model and features. However, most Hamer electric guitars fall within the price range of $1,500-$3,000.
Question 6: Where can I buy a Hamer electric guitar?
Answer: Hamer electric guitars can be purchased from a variety of music stores and online retailers.
We hope this FAQ section has been helpful. If you have any other questions about Hamer electric guitars, please feel free to contact us.
Summary: Hamer electric guitars are high-quality, versatile instruments that are suitable for a wide range of music genres. They are used by many professional musicians and are a great choice for any guitarist who is looking for a great-sounding, well-made guitar.
Transition to the next article section: In the next section, we will take a look at some of the most famous Hamer electric guitar players.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hamer Electric Guitar
Choosing the right Hamer electric guitar can be a daunting task, but it is important to take your time and find the guitar that is right for you. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Consider your playing style. What kind of music do you play? What kind of sound are you looking for? Hamer electric guitars are versatile instruments that can be used to play a wide variety of music genres, but they are particularly well-suited for rock, blues, and country music.
Tip 2: Determine your budget. Hamer electric guitars are available in a wide range of prices, from $1,500 to $3,000. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your choices.
Tip 3: Try out different guitars. The best way to find the right Hamer electric guitar is to try out as many different models as you can. This will give you a chance to compare the different guitars and find the one that feels and sounds the best to you.
Tip 4: Consider the features. Hamer electric guitars are available with a variety of features, such as different body shapes, neck profiles, and pickup configurations. It is important to consider the features that are important to you when choosing a guitar.
Tip 5: Get advice from a professional. If you are not sure which Hamer electric guitar is right for you, talk to a professional musician or guitar teacher. They can help you choose a guitar that is right for your playing style and budge
t.
Summary: Choosing the right Hamer electric guitar is an important decision. By following these tips, you can find the guitar that is perfect for you.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: Now that you know how to choose the right Hamer electric guitar, it is time to start shopping. With so many great models to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Conclusion
Hamer electric guitars are high-quality, versatile instruments that are suitable for a wide range of music genres. They are used by many professional musicians and are a great choice for any guitarist who is looking for a great-sounding, well-made guitar.
When choosing a Hamer electric guitar, it is important to consider your playing style, budget, and the features that are important to you. It is also a good idea to try out different guitars before making a decision.
With so many great models to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect Hamer electric guitar for your needs.
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