The Beatles Rock Band: first look at vintage guitars

Even better than the real thing? Well...almost
Even better than the real thing? Well...almost

The Beatles: Rock Band doesn't hit stores till 9/9/09, but the makers of the game have revealed the first photos of two of the vintage replica instruments: John Lennon's Rickenbacker 325 and George Harrison's Gretsch Duo Jet.

According to press release information, the plastic guitars will be available as "stand-alone music peripheral controllers" - another way of saying they won't be included with the Special Edition package that features the vintage bass, drums and microphone.

The guitars carry a price tag of $99, but it's unclear at this time whether that nets you one guitar or both.

McCartney's bass, Ringo's drums also available

As MusicRadar previously reported, replicas of Paul McCartney's Höfner bass and Ringo Starr's Ludwig-branded drums will be available, along with multiple microphones so that players can perform (or try to) the harmonies crucial to The Beatles' sound, in the $250 Special Edition package.

As of today, 5 May, the game is available for pre-order. After the pre-order purchase is made, gamers will receive a code that provides access to an otherwise-unavailable The Beatles: Rock Band website that offers breaking news, exclusive content and more.

Money can't buy you love, but apparently it can buy you The Beatles: Rock Band.

Joe Bosso

Joe is a freelance journalist who has, over the past few decades, interviewed hundreds of guitarists for Guitar WorldGuitar PlayerMusicRadar and Classic Rock. He is also a former editor of Guitar World, contributing writer for Guitar Aficionado and VP of A&R for Island Records. He’s an enthusiastic guitarist, but he’s nowhere near the likes of the people he interviews. Surprisingly, his skills are more suited to the drums. If you need a drummer for your Beatles tribute band, look him up.