Guild’s modern Polara series offers a wealth of models. The base option in the line, which also includes Deluxe, Artist Signature, and USA models, packs a special combination of timeless design and modern features. Built with a stripped down, no-frills design, the basic Polara has an ultra-light ergonomic body, thanks to its contouring and minimalist hardware package. Notably, a string-through-body design transmits string resonance straight through the mahogany body, delivering massive sustain and response. A diagonal string layout matches Guild’s compensated stopbar design first introduced in the early 1970s. The pickups are new, uncovered HB-2+ Humbuckers with higher output and alnico 5 magnets. And the comfortable neck is also mahogany, with a rosewood fretboard. Street price for the base model is $549 (including the Tungsten edition), $699 for the Deluxe, and $899 for the Kim Thayil signature model.
This nifty three-pickup solidbody delivers a host of versatile tones with retro-inspired style.
The French rockers detail how they appreciate the original '50s classic, but Jeff Beck's stirring rendition is an instrumental apex.