Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Beginner Kit TL vs Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Double Neck

Overview of Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kits

When it comes to DIY electric guitar kits, Fistrock offers two compelling options: the Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Beginner Kit TL Style 6 String and the Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Double Neck Guitar Kits 12 String. The first option is priced at $119.99, making it about 17% cheaper than the second option, which is priced at $219.99. Both kits are designed for beginners and include everything needed to assemble a functional electric guitar, but they differ significantly in style, features, and price.

Design and Build Quality

The Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Beginner Kit TL Style features a basswood body with an ash burl top, while the Double Neck Guitar Kit is constructed from mahogany for both the body and neck. This distinction is crucial as mahogany generally offers a warmer tone and greater sustain, making the Double Neck option more appealing for players seeking richer sound qualities. Additionally, the TL Style kit has a single neck and is designed for six strings, whereas the Double Neck kit includes both a twelve-string and a six-string neck, providing greater versatility for creative expression.

Features and Components

Both kits come with high-quality components designed for beginner builders. The TL Style kit includes S-S pickups and a tele-type bridge, while the Double Neck kit is equipped with humbucker pickups and a Tune-O-Matic bridge tailpiece. The difference in pickups can influence the tonal range; humbuckers are known for their thicker sound and reduced noise, making the Double Neck kit potentially more suitable for styles requiring a heavier tone. Each kit also includes die-cast chrome machine heads for reliable tuning stability, but the choice of pickups is a defining feature that may sway buyers depending on their musical preferences.

Customization Options

Customization is a key selling point for both guitar kits. Each kit features bodies that come cut and sanded but remain unfinished, allowing for personalisation through painting, staining, or varnishing. This means that whether you choose the TL Style kit or the Double Neck kit, you can create a guitar that reflects your unique style. The TL Style kit allows for a single neck design, while the Double Neck kit opens up additional creative possibilities with its dual necks, making it an attractive option for those who want to experiment with different tunings and sounds.

Sustainability and Material Quality

Both kits from Fistrock are constructed using sustainable tonewoods, which is a significant consideration for environmentally conscious musicians. The TL Style kit features a rosewood fretboard, while the Double Neck kit also includes a rosewood fingerboard, ensuring both options deliver improved tone and volume due to the natural grain of the wood. Sustainability in materials not only benefits the environment but also contributes to the quality of sound that each guitar can produce, making both kits appealing from an ethical standpoint.

Assembly and Instruction

Both kits come with full instructions and require some additional tools for assembly, such as a soldering iron and a screwdriver. The TL Style kit emphasizes that extra guidance is available through a video, while the Double Neck kit specifies that instructions can be sent via email upon request. This access to support is crucial for beginners who may be unfamiliar with the assembly process. The ease of obtaining help can be a deciding factor, especially for those who might feel overwhelmed by the challenge of building their own guitar.

Pricing and Value

With the TL Style kit priced at $119.99 and the Double Neck kit at $219.99, there is a notable price difference of $100 between the two. The TL Style kit is about 17% cheaper, making it a more budget-friendly choice for beginners who may be hesitant to invest heavily in their first guitar. However, the Double Neck kit offers two necks and a more complex build, which may justify its higher price for those committed to exploring a wider range of sounds and playing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the player's budget and their long-term goals in guitar playing.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Beginner Kit TL Style and the Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Double Neck Guitar Kits 12 String ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the player. If you are a beginner looking for a cost-effective, straightforward introduction to building and playing electric guitars, the TL Style kit is an excellent choice at $119.99. However, if you desire a more versatile instrument with richer tonal capabilities and the excitement of dual necks, the Double Neck kit at $219.99 may be worth the investment. Consider your musical aspirations, budget, and desire for customization when making your decision.