B.C. Rich: Comeback with New Model
One need not be a Metal fan to acknowledge that instruments preferred by heavy guitarists rank among the most technically advanced the market has to offer: excellent pickup and tremolo systems, flexibility and stability in all kinds of tunings, and many well-engineered features for optimal playability. As maybe THE most Metal guitar brand ever, B.C. Rich has focused on these very strengths and introduced Shredzilla as a new model. Compared to the manufacturer’s repertoire so far, its shape looks unusually normal but do not let yourself be deceived – this one packs a punch!
Shredzillas – Monsters of Ergonomic Metal Guitar
All Shredzilla models – more than 25 different variants altogether – have the typical B.C. Rich neck-through-construction. However, from the front, only the awesome tone wood tops are visible – improving the tone as well as the looks: Plain, Quilted, Spalted or Flamed Maple, as well as Burl are available.
Following the motto "Designed by shredders – for the shredders", Shredzillas come with several innovations for a more comfortable playing experience: The body has a deep cut for the easiest possible access to the higher notes. For fast and furious fretting hand maneuvers, the neck features an ultra slim contour shape and an extra smooth satin finish. In terms of hardware, it is a hard decision: Either a standard Hipshot bridge, a Floyd Rose locking bridge with Tremolo, or the patented Evertune bridge for maximal tuning stability are at choice. And yes, of course, there are also plenty of choices for guitarists who prefer 7- or 8-stringed instruments.
Extreme Series – Geared up to Kill(switch)
The main difference between the available Shredzilla series is in their sound design and how their tones can be controlled. All instruments of the Extreme Series have active Fishman Fluence Modern Humbucker pickups, which by using the 3-way switch can be selected individually or combined. A single pot controls the volume and features a push-pull function for different voices. Additionally, and quite out of the ordinary, an easy-to-reach kill switch opens up the world of chopped stuttering effects à la Tom Morello or Buckethead.
Prophecy Series – Beautiful Beasts
In contrast, the electronics of Prophecy Shredzillas works quite differently. These have passive DiMarzio Humbuckers built into their arched tops – one D Activator and a Super Distortion X pickup. Adding to a 3-way switch for pickup selection, three pots give control over volume, volume, and tone. Here, using the push-pull function in the volume pots effects a coil tap, thus also making possible single coil pickup tones. Only the Z6 model, easy to recognize by its non-black nickel hardware, has more reduced controls without a tone knob.
Last but not least, all the Shredzillas are pure eye candy. Their shimmering Abalone bindings not only frame the body but also the fretboard and headstock. As for finishes, a variety of flavors is at choice: Natural Transparent, Trans Black Satin, Black Cherry, Purple Haze, Cyan Blue, or a fascinating color explosion called Reptile Eye. So, which one would you like to shred?
