Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Beginner Kit 6 vs RockJam Electric Guitar Kit with 10-Watt Amp, Gig

Overview of Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit and RockJam Electric Guitar Kit

The Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit is priced at $116.99, while the RockJam Electric Guitar Kit costs $101.99, making the RockJam kit about 17% cheaper. Both kits are designed for beginner musicians, but they offer different experiences in learning and playing electric guitar. The Fistrock kit emphasizes customization and hands-on assembly, whereas the RockJam kit provides a more straightforward, all-in-one solution, including an amplifier and accessories, making it appealing for those looking to start playing right away.

Design and Build Quality

The Fistrock DIY kit features an ash body with a hard maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard, focusing on quality components for a solid build. This kit allows players to customize their guitar's appearance, as it comes unfinished, enabling personal design choices. In contrast, the RockJam kit boasts a full-sized basswood body that is designed for comfort and playability. Its ergonomic ST design and high-gloss finish give it a professional look right out of the box. While both kits offer good quality, the Fistrock kit is aimed at those who enjoy the crafting process, whereas the RockJam kit is ready to play immediately.

Sound and Performance

Fistrock’s DIY Electric Guitar Kit features single-coil pickups, which are known for their bright, clear sound, ideal for a variety of music styles. The inclusion of vintage tremolo adds versatility to the performance. On the other hand, the RockJam Electric Guitar Kit is equipped with three single-coil pickups and various controls, including tone and volume, allowing for a wide range of sound customization. The RockJam kit's 10-watt amplifier enhances the overall experience, making it suitable for practice and casual performances. Therefore, if sound versatility and immediate playability are your priorities, the RockJam kit stands out.

Accessories and Extras

Fistrock’s kit includes all necessary parts for building your guitar but requires additional tools such as a soldering iron and screwdriver to assemble. This may not be ideal for everyone, especially those who prefer a ready-to-play option. In contrast, the RockJam Electric Guitar Kit comes complete with a 10-watt amplifier, a gig bag, guitar picks, spare strings, and access to online lessons. This extensive set of accessories makes it particularly appealing for beginners who want everything in one package without the hassle of assembly. Thus, for those looking for convenience, the RockJam kit is the clear choice.

Learning and Support

While the Fistrock kit provides instructions and additional support via email upon request, it primarily caters to those interested in the DIY aspect of guitar building. This can be beneficial for those who value learning through hands-on experience. Conversely, the RockJam kit offers online learning through the Simply Guitar app, making it an excellent option for beginners who want guided lessons alongside their practice. The availability of structured learning resources makes the RockJam kit more suitable for individuals just starting their musical journey.

Portability

The RockJam Electric Guitar Kit includes a gig bag designed with two sturdy carry handles, ensuring easy transport of the guitar. This makes it practical for musicians who need to take their instrument to lessons or gigs. The Fistrock kit, while potentially portable once built, does not come with a protective bag, which could make transportation less convenient for users. Given this, the RockJam kit's inclusion of a gig bag significantly enhances its portability and ease of use.

Price and Value

With the Fistrock kit priced at $116.99 and the RockJam kit at $101.99, the RockJam option saves you $15, making it a more budget-friendly choice for beginners. The RockJam kit offers a comprehensive package that includes an amplifier and various accessories, providing excellent value for money. In contrast, while the Fistrock kit allows for customization through DIY assembly, it may not offer the same immediate value, especially for those who are not interested in building their instrument. For those looking for a cost-effective entry into electric guitar playing, the RockJam kit is the superior option.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit and the RockJam Electric Guitar Kit depends on your personal preferences. If you are excited about building your guitar from scratch and customizing its look and sound, the Fistrock kit may be the better fit for you. However, if you are a beginner looking for a comprehensive, ready-to-play solution that includes an amplifier and learning resources, the RockJam kit is the clear winner, especially given its lower price and added convenience.