Which Jackson is right for me?

[DAMPDX]

There are so many models and options.... I am looking for nu-metal sound in my next purchase. I am 99% sure it will be a Jackson, but which one? (Under $500).

Thanks!

[Mudlark]

New or used? Tremolo or not? Any body shape preferences?

$500 will probably limit you to the JS Series, or an old stock or manufacturer refurbished X Series. Though, a newer X series may be possible for that or not much more...I can't recall the starting point, but I think it's $550-600.

[DAMPDX]

standard body, temolo, new. Thank you for the reply!

[Mudlark]

So, that would be the bolt on Dinky models, or possibly a neck thru Soloist from the X Series. Both have the same Strat style bodies, though slightly smaller than a Strat. Reputedly 7/8ths Strat size, but that number isn't 100% correct to my knowledge.

http://jacksonguitars.com/series/

Check out some JS and X series Dinky/Soloist models, but like I said, the X will be closer to $600 in many cases. Come back with any questions. The prices shown are MSRP and street prices should be 25-35% of that at most North American dealers.

[DAMPDX]

Nice! Thanks Mud!

[Number Of The Priest]

Under $500 (assuming USD) is a wide berth if you hunt in the used market. I'll list a bunch below.

You should be able to find many Japanese Jacksons from the 2000s decade for well under those prices. These are very common in my area of Canada.

Consider the Japanese Jacksons with "Professional" on the headstock from the 1990s (http://audiozone.dk/index-filer/jack...ries_1990-1995). Many of them are affordable within your USD$500, except perhaps the top-of-the-line Professional Pro guitars (like the Soloist Pro, Rhoads Pro, etc.).

Also consider Charvel Model Series guitars (http://www.charvelusa.com/charvel_model_series.html) from 1986-1989 or the Charvel "Toothpaste Logo" guitars (http://charvelusa.com/charvel_models...1990_1991.html) from 1990-1991, many of which can be found for USD$500 or under.

Finally, consider the Charvel Pro Mod Series (2008-onwards); USD$500 can possibly get you an American one (proof I've shared in the E-fraid of E-bay subforum) and easily get you a Japanese or Mexican one.

The more patience you exercise, the better the deals when you decide to pounce.