Kiesel Guitars has just released a 2017 Jason Becker tribute model called the JB100. It’s a new and improved version of the JB200C, which was first released in 2012 (when Kiesel was known as Carvin…I really miss their magazines coming in the mail). A quick look at the specs reveals they’ve made some interesting choices for the updated model – and I really like them!
At first, I thought that it was a little strange for Kiesel to be changing out Becker’s preferred bridge (and its finish) and extending the scale by half an inch, considering he can’t really make those decisions nowadays – but then I remembered that this isn’t a signature model. It’s a tribute model, and it still retains all of the elements a guitarist would need to channel the Jason Becker’s super fast, clean, neoclassical awesomeness.
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For anyone wondering, the JB200C (and subsequently, the JB100) has modeled on one of Jason’s favorite instruments – the Carvin DC200. Jason began playing a custom Carvin DC200 in 1988 – it was one of his primary instruments before being diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease just one year later. You can see him flaunting the beautiful blue flamed maple top-wood in a bunch of promotional photos, but Kiesel has decided that they will not be including flamed-maple top-wood with the JB100, going for solid finishes instead.
Opting for an opaque finish was an interesting move – some might consider it a downgrade, but I’m actually finding it very appealing…in fact, I think I prefer this new model. Can’t wait to give it a try!
Notable Features for the JB100:
- First JB model to offer multiple bridge options
- No top-wood options
- Only finishes available in opaque or optional solid metallic colors
- Optional Jason Backer-styled numbered fret inlays
- Optional 5-piece necks available (combinations of maple, walnut, koa, and mahogany)
Spec Comparison: JB100 vs JB200C
And, just in case anyone was thinking the colors are too bright in here, I’ll include a model in black:
