Sounds

Pickups comprise the Randall Ultra set that’s become the standard fixture for many of Washburn’s rockier guitars, and they do provide a huge output designed for extreme rock and metal styles.

Controlled by a single volume, tone and three-way toggle, a classic metal rhythm crunch is huge indeed, with a very efficient cut due, in part, to the proximity of the bridge ’bucker to the bridge itself.

The tone has a real edge to it, more so than even the Dean, and the neck pickup here could just as easily be roped in for genuine rhythm sections rather than for a smoother tone prior to the main riff.

Pros: Huge dirty tone; compact body and fret access; cool graphic.
Cons: A couple of rough frets; no additional volume pot.

4 Stars

Verdict: Great value and with a huge tone that’s just the thing for hard rock and metal, this Washburn is the surprise of the bunch - even if you don’t like Anthrax.

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