One of the last things Randy Rhoads did before that plane crash was collaborate with Grover Jackson on a radical new 'V'. With eight variants now on Jackson's books, we hope he's getting the royalties up there.

Build

While not strictly a V, the RR24 sneaks into the group by virtue of being arguably the most iconic metal axe ever.

Spec'ed somewhere between the US and entry-level models, there's plenty going on beneath the surface here, from the offset alder body and two-octave maple thru-neck, to the double-locked Floyd Rose trem and active EMG81 humbucker.

Don't like the colour scheme? Well don't panic, there's a white version available too.

Hands on

Jacksons are rightly revered for their speed, and the RR24 won't do that reputation any harm thanks to a compound 14 to 16-inch radius board that flattens as you climb the frets.

Physically, you'll get far more out of the RR24 when you throw shred techniques at it; this baby excels at neo-classical finger-twisting riffs and tapped solos.

The RR24's configuration of one pickup and no tone control means it ain't exactly adaptable. The EMG81 is a stellar pickup, but it doesn't really do mellow and you'll find yourself doodling with the amp dials if you want anything approaching warmth.

But stop complaining, hit the gain and start soloing - you'll soon realise that you can't beat the 81 for pin-sharp clarity under serious filth.

This is a shred guitar. Use it for shredding and you can't go wrong.