Jackson has launched a slew of new X Series electric guitars, including new Soloist, Dinky, Rhoads, Kelly and Warrior models.
Leaning heavily on visuals, the drop sees a host of new looks from Camo Soloist and Rhoads models to eye-popping Neon Dinkys and even a Ferrari Red Kelly.
There are some new specs to unpick, too, particularly in the Soloist category, where a range of new pickup and body wood options are also available.
The instrument giant has also bolstered its bass guitar arsenal in the form of new-look Concert and Spectra models, which also feature new colorways and technical innovations.
Join us as we break down each new X Series addition below.
Jackson X Series Soloist
First under the microscope is the new SLA6 DX Archtop Baritone, which dons a 26.5" scale length, arched nyatoh body, through-body maple neck and 12"-16" compound-radius laurel fretboard. Available in Satin Black, it also boasts Active EMG 81 and 85 pickups and sleek body binding.
It’s joined by the SLX DX Camo, which packs a pair of high-output Active Jackson covered pickups and a Tiger Jungle Camo colorway. Aside from this, it’s a usual SLX DX, and features a nyatoh body, through-body maple neck and laurel fingerboard.
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Speaking of usual SLX DXs, Jackson has introduced Red Crystal and Granite Crystal finishes to its standard-line X Series Soloist models. It features the same specs as the Camo version, though it opts for a poplar body and Duncan Designed HB-103N and HB-103B humbuckers.
Last but certainly not least is the SL3X DX Crackle, which has received a more significant shake up. It features a basswood body and a graphite-reinforced neck, as well as a laurel fretboard and an HSS pickup configuration comprising mini high-output rail humbuckers and a high-output bridge pickup.
Price-wise, the SLX DX is the cheapest of the bunch at $699, while the SL3X and SLX DX Camo will set you back $899 and $849, respectively. The baritone model lists at $899.
Jackson X Series Dinky
Previously only available in Neon Green, Gloss Black and Cobalt Blue, the DK3XR HSS now comes in two new looks: Neon Pink and Caution Yellow.
As a reminder, the guitar comes equipped with a Jackson high-output bridge humbucker pickup and two Jackson single coils, as well as a laurel fingerboard, Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo and a color-matched reverse headstock.
Price-wise, Jackson's 2022 Dinky model retails at $599.
Jackson X Series Rhoads
Also new for 2022: the X Series Rhoads RRX24 now comes in a Winter Camo colorway. Specs include a nyatoh V-style body, through-body maple neck and 24-fret 12"-16" compound-radius laurel fingerboard.
Electronics come by way of a pair of high-output Jackson humbuckers, while its spec sheet is completed by a recessed Floyd Rose trem and pearloid sharkfin inlays.
The Winter Camo Rhoads is available now, and carries a price tag of $899.
Jackson X Series Kelly
Up next is the Kelly KEX, which has been treated to a new Ferrari Red aesthetic, joining a previously available Gloss Black finish.
To recap its spec sheet, the Kelly KEX features an angular, offset body comprising poplar body wings and a through-body maple neck, as well as a 12"-16" compound-radius fingerboard with pearloid sharkfin inlays and 24 jumbo frets.
The KEX is available now for $799.
Jackson X Series Warrior
Another angular offering arrives in the form of the radically styled, none-more-black WRX24, which features a Satin Black finish, black high-output pickups, black pickup rings and black hardware.
Other specs include a double-locking Floyd Rose tremolo, compound radius laurel fretboard, a through-body maple neck and a 25.5” scale length.
Jackson's WRX24 is set to cost $749 when it arrives this May.
Jackson X Series Concert Bass / Spectra Bass
In the bass department, Jackson has also bolstered the X Series with the CBXNT DX V Concert Bass and SBX IV Spectra Bass.
Taking them one at a time, the five-string Concert Bass features a 35” scale length, speed maple neck contour, 12”-16” compound radius, a pair of J-Style and P-Style Jackson pickups and, for the first time, a Gloss Black or Snow White finish.
It’s also worth noting the onboard three-band EQ, newly designed Jackson Bass Bacher V hardtail bridge and sealed die-cast tuning machines.
Finally, the Spectra Bass is available in Gloss Black and Matte Army Drab, and comes loaded with a nyatoh body, through-body maple neck, compound laurel fretboard and a pair of medium-output humbuckers.
Again, it features a three-band active EQ, but also boasts a push/pull volume control that bypasses or engages the active circuit. Final touches include a HiMass hardtail bridge, versatile blend control and 24 jumbo frets.
The Concert bass is priced at $799, while the Spectra model will set you back $699.
Jackson's revamped X Series range joins the updated Concept Series lineup, which promises Custom Shop hardware without the eye-watering price tag.
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Matt is a Senior Staff Writer, writing for Guitar World, Guitarist and Total Guitar. He has a Masters in the guitar, a degree in history, and has spent the last 16 years playing everything from blues and jazz to indie and pop. When he’s not combining his passion for writing and music during his day job, Matt records for a number of UK-based bands and songwriters as a session musician.
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