Legator Guitars: Are They Worth The Hype?

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Legator Guitars: Are They Worth the Hype?

Hey guys! Ever been curious about Legator guitars? You're not alone! These instruments have been making waves, and today, we're diving deep to figure out if they're actually worth the investment. We're going to break down everything from their construction to their playability and sound, so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started, shall we?

What Makes Legator Guitars Special?

Legator guitars have carved a niche for themselves in the metal and modern guitar world. Right off the bat, they stand out with their sleek designs and, let's face it, pretty killer aesthetics. But it's not just about looks; these guitars are engineered to cater to the needs of today's shredders and prog enthusiasts. They're known for their multi-scale (fanned fret) options, extended range guitars (7, 8, and even 9-string models), and high-output pickups. This means Legator focuses on offering instruments that can handle the low tunings and complex playing styles that are so popular in contemporary metal and other genres.

Design and Construction

When you pick up a Legator, the first thing you'll probably notice is how modern they look. They often feature aggressive body shapes, like the Ghost and Ninja series. These guitars are designed for a specific purpose: to look and sound the part of modern metal. The construction varies depending on the model and price point, but you'll typically find features like:

  • Solid Wood Bodies: Usually mahogany or basswood, chosen for their tonal characteristics and affordability. Higher-end models may feature exotic wood tops.
  • Bolt-on or Neck-Through Construction: Bolt-on necks are more common on the budget-friendly models, while neck-through designs, found on more premium guitars, offer enhanced sustain and access to higher frets.
  • Fretting: Stainless steel frets are becoming increasingly common, offering durability and smooth playability. Some models feature standard nickel frets.
  • Hardware: Legator uses a mix of their own hardware and components from reputable brands. You can expect reliable bridges, tuners, and other components.

Playability and Features

Legator guitars are built with playability in mind. Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:

  • Thin Necks: Most models have thin, comfortable neck profiles, perfect for fast playing and technical styles. This is a crucial element for many guitarists who love to shred.
  • Extended Range: If you're into 7, 8, or even 9-string guitars, Legator has you covered. These instruments are designed to handle the extended range and low tunings common in modern metal.
  • Multi-Scale Options: Fanned frets aren't for everyone, but Legator offers them. These guitars allow for optimized intonation and string tension, particularly beneficial for lower tunings.
  • High-Output Pickups: Legator guitars come loaded with pickups designed to deliver aggressive tones. They're built for high gain and are perfect for metal and rock.

Sound Quality: What Do Legator Guitars Sound Like?

Alright, let's get down to the most important question: how do Legator guitars actually sound? The sound of a Legator guitar heavily depends on the specific model, the pickups, and the wood combinations used, but generally speaking, they are engineered to deliver a specific type of sound. Legator guitars typically aim for modern, high-gain tones. They are built to excel in genres like metal, djent, and progressive rock. The pickups are usually high-output, designed to cut through a mix and deliver a tight, articulate sound under high gain. The choice of wood also influences the sound:

  • Mahogany: Provides warmth, sustain, and a rich mid-range.
  • Basswood: Offers a balanced tone, great for clarity and articulation.

Pickup Performance

The pickups in Legator guitars are a key component of their sound. They are designed to deliver a modern metal tone with clarity and power. While opinions on their specific sound can vary depending on the model and personal preference, they're generally known for:

  • High Output: Plenty of power for high-gain applications.
  • Tight Low End: Prevents muddiness when playing in low tunings.
  • Articulation: Clarity and definition, even with complex chord voicings and fast playing.

Comparing to Other Brands

Compared to some other brands, Legator often offers a similar level of quality but at a lower price point, especially when it comes to extended-range guitars. However, they may not have the same level of brand recognition or resale value as established names like Ibanez or ESP. Comparing different models can be crucial when making a decision. Consider your budget, play style, and tonal preferences.

Are Legator Guitars Good for Beginners?

If you're a beginner, Legator guitars might seem a bit daunting at first. The extended-range models and aggressive aesthetics can be a lot to take in. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that they're a bad choice. Here's a breakdown to consider:

Pros for Beginners

  • Playability: Many Legator guitars are designed with thin necks, making them comfortable and easy to play, which is a big deal for beginners.
  • Affordability: The price point of some Legator guitars can be very competitive, especially if you're looking for a guitar with features you wouldn't find in other brands at the same cost.
  • Modern Features: The design makes it easier to adopt modern playing styles and genres.

Cons for Beginners

  • Steep Learning Curve: Extended-range guitars and fanned frets can be challenging to learn, especially if you're new to guitar.
  • Overkill: The high-output pickups might be a bit too aggressive for beginners. You might not need that much gain or power right away.

Recommendation for Beginners

For a beginner, the best Legator guitar will likely be a standard 6-string model with a regular scale length. This will help you focus on the fundamentals without getting overwhelmed by extended range or fanned frets. A Legator 6-string model can still offer a great playing experience and help you get started with the modern styles of music that Legator is known for.

Pros and Cons of Legator Guitars

Let's cut to the chase and summarize the good and the not-so-good of Legator guitars.

Pros:

  • Modern Aesthetics: Look killer on stage.
  • Playability: Thin necks, comfortable for fast playing.
  • Value: Great features for the price.
  • Extended Range Options: If you like 7, 8, or 9 strings, you're in luck.
  • High-Output Pickups: Perfect for metal and high-gain tones.

Cons:

  • Brand Recognition: Not as well-known as some other brands.
  • Resale Value: Might not hold their value as well as more established brands.
  • Pickups: The pickups aren't everyone's cup of tea.
  • Specific Niche: Primarily designed for metal and modern genres.

Final Verdict: Are Legator Guitars Worth Buying?

So, are Legator guitars worth buying? The answer depends on what you're looking for. If you're a metalhead, a prog enthusiast, or a player who loves the modern guitar aesthetic, Legator guitars are definitely worth considering. They offer a great value, excellent playability, and features tailored for the genres. However, if you're a beginner or prefer more traditional guitar designs and sounds, you might want to start with a more standard instrument. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences, your playing style, and the kind of music you play.

Recommendation

I recommend trying out a Legator guitar if you're interested! If you are a fan of modern metal styles, high-gain tones, and extended-range instruments, Legator is worth considering. The best thing to do is to try one out in person if possible. This way, you can get a feel for the playability and see if the sound matches your expectations. Happy shredding, guys!