Differences Between the Samick Guitar Models
- The JTR Series, short for JT Riboloff, are guitars designed for progressive and heavy-metal rock 'n' roll music, jazz and blues. Some incorporate a neck-through-the-body design that allows for greater note sustain. They feature slimmer neck widths for faster playing and jumbo frets that make the notes easier to play. Models such as the MB1, the Marie Roadster and the Elvira Roadster retail in the range of $200 to $500. However, some more expensive models, such as the Linda LN20FR, have humbucker pickups, a Floyd Rose tremolo and a solid body design and retail in the $800 to $900 range.
- Greg Bennet, a designer for Samick, is responsible for designing and building electric guitars, ranging from hollow-body to Strat- and Telecaster-styled guitars as well as other instruments similar to iconic rock music. His instruments feature a compact headstock, which reduces extra resonance and improves the sound and power of the strings by increasing sustain. Other features include Duncan Design pickups, Grover tuners, graphite nuts and arch top construction, which also improves attack and sustain when strings are played. Greg Bennet electric guitars retail between $300 and $700.
- Silvertone acoustic guitars are mainly marketed toward beginners and younger music students interested in purchasing a starter pack, which often includes a guitar, guitar strap and picks. Although some Silvertone guitars have solid tops, most have natural or laminate tops, producing a lesser-quality sound while also keeping down cost. Most Silvertone guitars are limited to standard-size guitars, although there are some half- and full-size dreadnought models, such as the SD50. Silvertone acoustic guitars retail between $200 to $400.
- Acoustic guitars designed by Greg Bennet also range from solid-top guitars, banjos, resonator guitars, mandolins and other special edition vintage models. Features include soft corner bridges, which reduce the potential for cracks developing in the finish. Other features include Fishman pickups and EQ systems. Scalloped braces allow the guitar's top to flex and vibrate more freely, which equates to faster attack, better sustain and stronger bass tones. All Greg Bennet guitars have solid tops, which improve resonance and vibration when strings are played. These acoustic guitars cost between $300 and $500.