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King Diamond’s Andy LaRocque Unveils His Own Signature LTD Model
Product Review: LTD ALR-II Andy LaRocque Signature Guitar
King Diamond’s iconic guitarist, Andy LaRocque, finally has a signature guitar that lives up to his legendary status. The new LTD ALR-II is not only a tribute to LaRocque’s monumental contribution to metal but also an impressive instrument that guitarists can truly appreciate. LaRocque, known for crafting some of the most influential metal music, including the masterful Abigail, now lends his creative genius to this outstanding guitar model.
Key Features
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Body and Finish:
- The LTD ALR-II is designed with the classic ESP Horizon body shape, featuring a striking See Thru Purple finish that showcases a beautiful Figured Quilted Maple top.
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Construction:
- This guitar features a neck-thru-body design that ensures enhanced sustain and tonal quality. The scale length is 24.75 inches, a familiar dimension for players who prefer easier playability in the higher frets.
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Neck and Fingerboard:
- The neck is constructed from three pieces of maple for added stability and smoothness. It is equipped with a Macassar Ebony fingerboard, which is known for its rich tonal properties and smooth feel. The compound radius fingerboard includes 24 extra-jumbo stainless steel frets that allow for effortless bending and soloing.
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Pickups and Electronics:
- The ALR-II comes loaded with high-quality Seymour Duncan pickups, including a TB-4 JB Trembucker in the bridge position and an STK-S6 Custom Stack Plus in the neck. These passive pickups deliver a powerful sound suitable for various musical styles.
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Tremolo System:
- For those who love to dive-bomb and create expressive vibrato effects, the guitar is equipped with a Floyd Rose 1000 double-locking tremolo system, ensuring perfect tuning stability even after extensive use.
- Luminlay Side Markers:
- Luminlay side markers provide enhanced visibility on stage or in low-light situations, ensuring that players can navigate their fretboard confidently.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning aesthetic with a unique See Thru Purple finish.
- Exceptional playability due to the neck-thru-body design and compound radius fingerboard.
- High-quality Seymour Duncan pickups produce versatile tones suitable for various genres.
- Highly stable Floyd Rose tremolo system allows for creative expression without compromising tuning stability.
- Comfortable and ergonomic design suited for extended playing sessions.
Cons:
- Price point of $1,799 may be steep for some beginner guitarists.
- Limited availability may make it challenging to find in local stores.
- The unique features might not appeal to players who prefer more traditional designs.
Customer Feedback
This guitar has received outstanding reviews from customers who appreciate both its performance and aesthetics. With an average 5-star rating, players have highlighted the seamless playability, the aesthetic appeal of the quilted maple top, and the versatility offered by the Seymour Duncan pickups.
Customer comments such as "This guitar exceeds all my expectations" and "The craftsmanship is impeccable—definitely worth the investment" resonate strongly within the community. Fans of King Diamond and metal music, alike, express their excitement over finally having a LaRocque signature model that lives up to the legendary player’s reputation.
The LTD ALR-II is more than just a signature model; it’s a high-performance instrument that reflects the artistry and passion of Andy LaRocque. For any guitarist looking to add a beautifully constructed and sonically versatile guitar to their collection, the LTD ALR-II is a prime candidate.
You can explore more about this guitar on the LTD ALR-II product page on Sweetwater.
Watch and Learn
To see the LTD ALR-II in action, check out these videos:
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For metal enthusiasts and players in search of a distinct instrument, the LTD ALR-II is a striking option that offers both unparalleled beauty and performance.
