If you’re on the hunt for the best guitar for psychedelic rock, you’re in the right part of the internet! In today’s article, we’re going to take a closer at 10 amazing guitars suitable for guitarists who love that genre. Whether you’re a solo musician or you play in a band, you will definitely enjoy the list below! What’s more, there will be sound samples included as well so that you can compare the tone of these guitars on your own.
What kind of guitar is the best for psychedelic rock? Well, the musicians from 60’s and 70’s used quite a few different types of guitars: Stratocasters, Les Pauls, SGs and hollow-body guitars. The guitars listed below include all of these models. On top of that, you’ll see that great guitars don’t necessarily have to be expensive. That’s why I included a few models for beginner players on a low budget!
I created this list of recommendations based on my thirteen years of experience with guitars and on my knowledge about psychedelic rock. We’ll have a look on guitars used by the most famous artists from that era: Jimi Hendrix, David Gilmour and many more.
Top 10 Guitars For Psychedelic Rock
| 1. | Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster | See on Amazon |
| 2. | Epiphone Les Paul Special | See on Amazon |
| 3. | Fender Vintera 50s Telecaster | See on Amazon |
| 4. | Gretsch Electromatic | See on Amazon |
| 5. | Fender American Professional Stratocaster II | See on Amazon |
| 6. | Epiphone SG Special | See on Amazon |
| 7. | Squier Affinity Stratocaster HSS | See on Amazon |
| 8. | D’Angelico Deluxe | See on Amazon |
| 9. | Fender Player Stratocaster | See on Amazon |
| 10. | ESP LTD EC-256 | See on Amazon |
1. Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Stratocaster
A really solid guitar for both amateur and pro players. To be honest, I’m a massive fan of the Classic Vibe Series. I had a 50s Telecaster by Squier a few years ago and the quality and tone were absolutely amazing for its price. These models are comparable with more expensive Fender guitars – and that’s fact. On top of that, this Stratocaster features a really classic and vintage aesthetic combined with nickel-plated hardware and remarkable attention to detail. The guitar is heavily inspired by the original Strats from 1960s. At this price, it will be really difficult to beat this! I highly recommend checking it out. See how it sounds on the video below.
2. Epiphone Les Paul Special
Another iconic guitar popular among the psychedelic rock musicians. Most of guitarists from that genre used Gibson guitars in the past, although they still tend to be really expensive. That’s why I encourage you to check out this Epiphone – a really affordable and enjoyable guitar suitable for both beginner and intermediate players. Vintage look, classic tone and two great humbuckers made for rock music – who needs anything else? If you’re a fan of the Les Paul guitar shape, you should totally give this guitar a try. I included a sound sample below. Sounds great, right?
3. Fender Vintera 50s Telecaster
Absolutely fantastic guitar. I’m a massive fan of Vintera Series by Fender – all of these guitars feature exceptional quality and vintage sound. This is a mid-level guitar – it’s not cheap, but it’s not that extremely expensive either. I’m sure that any passionate guitarist will be able to save up for it! What’s important, the Vintera Series guitars are manufactured in Mexico, so it’s an upgrade from cheaper Indonesian and Chinese models. If you’re looking for a classic Telecaster sound with a real feel of the 50’s, this guitar is made for you. I highly recommend checking out the sound sample below.
4. Gretsch Electromatic
This is a really special and versatile guitar. In fact, I included this model on my list of top recommendations for best guitars with Bigsby. I think that there is something absolutely unique about the combination of navy blue color with the golden hardware. You have to admit it – this Gretsch looks just stunning! What I also like about this guitar is that it’s great for a lot of different genres. Such versatility will be perfect especially for psychedelic rock. Gretsch decided to use a laminated maple body, a maple neck and laurel fingerboard. Undoubtedly, this instrument will be ideal for psychedelic studio recordings and live gigs. Great choice! See how it sounds below.
5. Fender American Professional Stratocaster II
One of the most expensive guitars on today’s list. As I mentioned earlier, Stratocasters are one of the most popular guitars among psychedelic rock guitarists. Think about Jimi Hendrix – he played on a Strat too! The American Professional Series features an exceptional sound and amazing attention to detail. It’s not a cheap model, but it’s totally worth it. Undoubtedly, this is a guitar for a professional musician. If playing music is your life, you should totally check out this model. Here’s a sound test in case you’re interested. Michael Lemmo from Norman’s Rare Guitars really knows how to present that guitar!
6. Epiphone SG Special
Again, it’s a really solid guitar that won’t break the bank. This Epiphone is inspired by the legendary Gibson SG – an iconic guitar popular among the professional guitarists. If you’re looking for something affordable and ready to play straight out of the box, this SG will be perfect. I highly recommend this guitar for both beginner and more intermediate guitarists. Undoubtedly, the SG type is one of the best for psychedelic rock genre. These two humbuckers offer a classic, distorted rock sound. On top of that, it’s really comfortable to play. If you pick that one, you won’t regret it, that’s for sure! Have a look on the video below to see what tone you can achieve on that thing.
7. Squier Affinity Stratocaster HSS
In comparison with other guitars on my list, this Strat is actually one of the cheapest. To be honest, I’m a massive fan of Squier guitars. In my opinion, the Affinity Series is comparable with some of the Mexican-made Fenders. I peresonally own a Squier Jazzmaster and I have to admit that at this price level, it will be extremely difficult to find something better. In addition, this Strat features two single-coil pickups and one humbucker. As a result, the guitar is really versatile and it will be great for both clean and more distorted and heavy sounds. To be honest, I’m still amazed by the overall quality of the Affinity Series. Classic Strat sound, excellent tone and cheap price – who needs anything else? Here’s a sound sample in case you’re interested.
8. D’Angelico Deluxe SS
Another guitar for the most demanding guitar players out there. The D’Angelico guitars have a really long history – the company was founded in New York in 1932. In fact, they are often considered as one of the best and often luxurious guitars in the world. Moreover, Chet Atkins, Eric Clapton and many other legendary players frequently used their guitars in the past! This semi-hollow body model has everything you need for psychedelic rock – custom Seymour Duncan humbuckers, a six-way switch, a slim C-shape neck and vintage look. There is something absolutely special in this Matte Plum color version. The guitar is really expensive, but it’s totally worth it. I’m totally in love with this guitar. Check out the video below to see this amazing sound.
9. Fender Player Stratocaster
Absolutely great mid-level guitar perfect for psychedelic sounds. This is a classic mid-level guitar – it will be awesome for both beginner and more advanced players. Personally, I think that the overall quality of these Mexican-made guitars is comparable with much cheaper Squier Affinity or Classic Vibe Strats. Nevertheless, it’s a Fender. Some players believe that having a Fender logo on your headstock makes you a better guitarist, but who knows if that’s true! Whether you decide to choose a Squier or Fender, both of these choices will be great for psychedelic rock. Amazing tone, great quality and a classic Stratocaster shape – what can go wrong? Here’s a sound sample.
10. ESP LTD EC-256
It may not be the most popular guitar for psychedelic rock in the world, but it’s definitely one of the best. In addition, it’s also great for hard rock and heavy metal. For those who don’t know, ESP manufactures great sounding and great looking guitars at decent prices. If you’re looking for a classic Les Paul shape and you’re not satisfied with Epiphone guitars, you can also check out this model. Personally, I really enjoy this dark brown sunburst color – it adds a lot of character and vintage spirit to this guitar. Moreover, the guitar sounds fantastic! I included a sound sample below. Undoubtedly, it will be a solid choice for both beginner and more advanced players.
Psychedelic Rock Guitar – FAQ
What defines music as psychedelic?
Psychedelic rock is often called as ‘psychedelia’. It’s a subgenre of rock music heavily inspired and influenced by the psychedelic culture. That kind of music is often experimental and it features a use of various sound effects and guitar effects pedals in aim to modulate the sound.
What are the most popular psychedelic rock bands?
Some of the psychedelic rock bands include The Jimi Hendrix Experience, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Jefferson Airplane, The Doors or The Rolling Stones. In terms of newer artists, today’s bands include for example Tame Impala or Temples.
What guitar shapes are the most popular for psychedelic rock?
There are no limits when it comes to psychedelic rock. Nevertheless, Stratocasters and Les Paul guitars are one of the most popular guitar types in that genre. Some guitarists also use Telecasters, SG guitars or hollow and semi-hollow models.
Where can I buy a psychedelic rock guitar?
You can visit your local music store and check out the guitars in today’s article in real life. Alternatively, you can order your favorite guitar from Amazon! Undoubtedly, it’s one of the most convenient and fastest ways to buy the best psychedelic rock guitar.
Summary
As you can see, there’s quite a few absolutely amazing guitars out there. Which one is the best guitar for psychedelic rock? Well, that depends. Some people prefer Stratocasters, while other people enjoy Telecasters or hollow body guitars more. Personally, I would go with a Strat – it’s a safe choice for psychedelic rock. Since Jimi Hendrix played on a Strat, it can never go wrong! Nevertheless, all of the guitars above feature amazing quality, so no matter which one you choose, it will be a good choice.
Thanks for checking out Best Guitars Now. I hope that you enjoyed today’s article! Which guitar would you choose? Let me know in the comments below. Also, if you liked today’s recommendations, you may also like:
