Wolfgang Guitar
From LoveToKnow Guitar
Are you interested in learning about Wolfgang guitars? As a popular guitar associated with the great rock act Van Halen, these guitars are often a guitarist's dream vanity guitar. Production of these guitars stopped for a period of time. However, they are still one of the most common guitar searches, and many collectors are dedicated to finding the perfect model.
Background of Wolfgang Guitars
Wolfgang guitars are the creation of Van Halen guitarist Eddie Van Halen. Van Halen built his first guitar himself by hand. Using parts of other guitars, he created his own instrument to his own specifications. As a guitarist, Eddie Van Halen is known for two-handed tapping, vibrato and a large use of tremolo picking. The design of Wolfgang guitars help make it easier for players to incorporate these elements of guitar playing into their music.
These guitars were originally manufactured by Peavey Electronicsfrom beginning in 1996. In 2004, the relationship between Peavey Electronics and Eddie Van Halen ended. New editions of Wolfgang guitars are currently being produced by Fender. The newer version, the EVH Wolfgang is sleeker with new knobs and pickups to differentiate it from its predecessor. Named after Eddie Van Halen's son Wolfgang, the guitar line includes a feature called the D-Tuna. The D-Tuna enables the guitarist to tune the low E string to D with the simple turn of a knob. The guitar is also solid bodied with a modified neck similar to the neck Eddie Van Halen created for himself. It is popular with fans because of its loud rock sound and Halen-esque elements.
Specs
The present Wolfgang only comes in three colors. With a basswood core, chrome hardware, and a quartersawn maple neck, the guitar's scale length is 25.5. With a Floyd Rose locking tremolo, 3-way switch pickup switchin, and a birds eye maple fingerboard, the guitar is strong enough to endure the toughest playing. The 22 stainless steel frets give a guitarist numerous options as far as chords go.
For more information about the original Peavey Wolfgang guitars, Peavey Guitars' official site is one of the best resources for information regarding the specifications of the numerous Wolfgang's they produced.
Where Can You Find One?
New Models
The newer Wolfgang guitars can be purchased from numerous retailers.
- Sam Ash carries the latest Wolfgang in three colors including vintage white, sunburst and black.
- Due to the price of these guitars, not all Guitar Center locations carry the guitar. However, the store's website provides a listing of all its centers that do.
- Online retailer Musician's Friend also carries the instrument in a variety of colors.
Vintage Wolfgangs
The original Wolfgang guitars are no longer available at major retailers, but you can often find them online as part of a vintage guitar collection.
- As a fansite dedicated to Wolfgang Guitars, WolfgangGuitars.com has a handful of the older model Wolfgangs available.
- Ebay still remains a viable source for guitars like the Wolfgang. Be sure to buy from a reputable dealer so you don't get duped into thinking a particular model is better than it really is.
- Ebid is another online auction site where you can find the Peavey Wolfgang's. Again, be sure to bid responsibly and know what you are getting.
Final Thoughts
Wolfgang guitars are known for two reasons. The first reason is their creator, Eddie Van Halen, and his reputation. Second, they are known for being a quality guitar that gives range and mobility to the guitarist. For anyone looking to emulate Van Halen, this guitar may offer one of the best ways to achieve that elusive rock star quality.
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This page has been accessed 174 times. This page was last modified 19:40, 18 August 2009.
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