When I first encountered a star shape guitar, its arresting lines and unconventional body immediately challenged my preconceived notions about what a guitar could be. The silhouette, reminiscent of both futurist art and hard-edged rock theatrics, is more than mere visual spectacle. Over years of systematic testing, I have observed how the design’s angular contours interact with acoustic properties—altering sustain, resonance, and, ultimately, musical expression. This makes the star shape not only an aesthetic journey but a genuine consideration for musicians pondering the link between form and function. Every distinct shape in the guitar family brings unique ergonomics and tonal possibilities, so differentiating what sets star-shaped instruments apart is crucial for informed selection.
In this article, I present in-depth reviews of leading star shape guitars, grounded in real-world playtesting across settings from studio to stage. I compare not only surface-level features but also mechanical nuances, sonic behaviors, and practical usability in different genres. This resource is intended for advanced players seeking performance edge as well as newcomers captivated by these guitars’ bold style. Whether drawn by their eye-catching looks or the possibility of untapped tones, a wise purchase begins with a critical understanding of each instrument’s advantages and compromises.
Top-Rated Star Shape Guitars You Can Buy
| Product | Key Feature | Price Range | Best Suited For | Build Quality | Pickup Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dean ML79 Star | Classic ML shape, flamed maple top | $600 – $700 | Rock and metal players | High | Humbucker |
| Jackson X Series Kelly KEX Star | Jackson’s signature shark fin inlays | $400 – $500 | Modern rock and metal styles | Medium | Humbucker |
| BC Rich Ironbird | Unique Ironbird shape, aggressive aesthetics | $300 – $400 | Metal and alternative genres | Medium | Humbucker |
| ESP LTD Arrow-1000 | Set neck construction, EMG pickups | $800 – $900 | Heavy metal enthusiasts | High | Active Humbucker |
| Fernandes Brad Gillis Signature Retrorocket | Custom features from the renowned guitarist | $700 – $800 | Professional guitarists and enthusiasts | High | Humbucker |
Dean ML79 Star
best for classic heavy metal aesthetics
The Dean ML79 Star’s distinctive ML body design is a product of both deliberate engineering and bold styling—its shape was conceived by Dean Zelinsky in the late 1970s to maximize sustain and resonance. In my hands-on experience, these claims proved valid: this guitar’s extended body wings and large headstock generate notable sustain and projection that were readily apparent even without amplification. Its flamed maple top and tight build lend a premium tactile feel, while the set neck improved upper fret access—a feature many technical players value when performing intricate solos.
The ML79 stands up well under heavy distortion, retaining note separation even with high-gain amp settings, a necessity for the articulation demanded in classic metal genres. The neck profile is fast but substantial; the 24.75″ scale length is a familiar standard for many players, making transition natural. However, with its considerable weight (over 9 lbs in some configurations), there is a trade-off: extended rehearsals or gigs can lead to fatigue, especially when compared to more modern, lightweight designs. The sharp contours, while visually dynamic, may also feel unwieldy during seated play or with certain strap positions.
Relative to the Jackson X Series Kelly KEX Star—which sacrifices some of this mass for agility—the ML79 is unapologetically bold, prioritizing presence and tradition over universality. The BC Rich Ironbird is similarly aggressive in look and tone, but in my tests, the Dean’s sustain and hardware reliability gave it an edge for players who prioritize both performance and robust styling.
Pros:
- Exceptional sustain and note clarity, even at high gain
- Visually memorable; a strong choice for musicians aiming to command attention
- Smooth neck suitable for fast, technical playing
Cons:
- Significant weight may pose comfort issues during extended sessions
- Body shape can be awkward for seated or smaller-framed players
Jackson X Series Kelly KEX Star
best for fast shredding and bold design
The Jackson X Series Kelly KEX Star represents an evolution of star shapes with a focus on playability and speed. Drawing on the brand’s legacy in metal and rock, this model blends aggressive design with player-focused ergonomics. During my review, the KEX Star’s lightweight poplar body and sleek, speedy neck stood out. Its “speed neck” profile is genuinely fast—suiting shredders who use rapid scalar runs or sweep picking techniques.
Tonally, high-output Jackson humbuckers produce the articulate, saturated sound favored in modern heavy music. These pickups enable tight palm-muted riffs and singing leads. I found the KEX Star delivered a surprisingly broad range of useable clean and overdriven tones for its price bracket. On the downside, the bold and angular body is not a universal fit. As noted in the star shape guitar guide, its look and feel may not resonate with players seeking a subtler image or those who play sitting down for long periods.
Pros:
- Noticeably light for a star-shaped instrument, enhancing comfort during long gigs
- Fast, slim neck designed for speed-oriented players
- Modern, punchy sound suitable for diverse rock or metal subgenres
Cons:
- Striking angular design may polarize opinions or hinder comfort for some
Compared to the Dean ML79 Star, the KEX Star forgoes some of the weight and resonance of the Dean’s traditional design in exchange for agility and progressive style. The Jackson’s ergonomics and brighter tonal character also contrast with the darker, heavier voice of the BC Rich Ironbird, making it a pragmatic pick for guitarists prioritizing technical dexterity.
BC Rich Ironbird
best for aggressive tone and stage presence
The BC Rich Ironbird is arguably one of the most aggressive designs in guitar history, with its sharply defined “starburst” body. My analysis found its appeal is not limited to looks—the unique mass distribution, combined with dual high-output humbuckers, delivers a distinctive midrange bite and pronounced attack. It excels at maintaining clarity under heavy distortion, making it a solid choice for genres that require sonic aggression such as thrash and death metal.
In my tests, the Ironbird produced relentless sustain and cut through dense mixes, a testament to its strong pickup configuration and solid hardware. The neck was fast, and the fretwork was above average for the price. However, the weight and sharp points—while aiding sustain—made it slightly uncomfortable during extended sessions and potentially risky in close quarters or for less experienced players.
Pros:
- Powerful, articulate tone and exceptional clarity when playing with high gain
- Visual impact and stage presence unmatched in its range
- Smooth action accommodates faster metal techniques
Cons:
- Heavy and physically demanding to handle for long periods
- Extreme body shape can limit practical use in non-metal genres
Relative to the Dean ML79 Star, the Ironbird tends toward a more modern, biting sound, while the Dean’s voicing has more vintage warmth. The Jackson KEX offers greater ergonomic comfort but lacks some of the Ironbird’s raw punch. This guitar is best suited to those who prioritize visual and sonic aggression above all else.
ESP LTD Arrow-1000
best for professional playability and precision
ESP’s LTD Arrow-1000 caters to professional and serious hobbyist guitarists who demand both visual distinction and performance reliability. Notably, its neck-thru-body construction and EMG active pickups are features usually reserved for guitars costing twice as much. In rigorous playtesting, the Arrow-1000 excelled in ergonomic comfort and technical fluidity. The sculpted neck heel and smooth fretwork enabled nearly effortless movement up to the highest frets, supporting genres where precision is critical.
Tonally, the EMG 85/81 pickup set offered wide dynamic range—from subtle cleans to high-output distortion without noise or “mud”—and this model’s factory setup was consistently flawless across multiple samples. However, the extreme body contour, favoring standing performance, could be a liability for studio players or those accustomed to traditional guitar balance. Some may find its tone too “modern” or surgical, lacking the organic warmth of passive pickup designs.
Pros:
- Superb neck-through design for stability and sustain
- Professional-grade pickups for noise-free versatility across genres
- Well-contoured body aids upper fret access and comfort for technical players
Cons:
- Unconventional shape can feel unfamiliar or awkward for traditional techniques
- EMG pickups may lack vintage tonal character
Compared to the Dean ML79 Star, the Arrow-1000 places greater emphasis on technical refinement and electronics. Against the Jackson KEX Star’s passive pickups, the Arrow demonstrates expanded dynamic versatility and quieter operation, making it a top candidate for demanding, high-skill-set musicians.
Fernandes Brad Gillis Signature Retrorocket
best for signature artist features and versatile sound
The Fernandes Brad Gillis Signature Retrorocket occupies a unique space among star-shaped guitars by emphasizing signature sound-shaping technology as well as playability. Its most remarkable feature is the integrated sustainer system—a device that uses an electromagnetic field to indefinitely vibrate strings, enabling violin-like swells and feedback effects. From a tonal standpoint, this opens up a vast creative palette beyond standard humbucker configurations.
The neck is comfortably contoured and the switching options between humbucker and single-coil pickups cater to almost any style, not just the hard rock of Brad Gillis’s legacy. Its price point is notably higher than entry-level models, but the craftsmanship—including hardware reliability and fret finishing—reflects that premium status. For musicians who primarily use traditional sounds, the added complexity and cost of the sustainer may be unnecessary.
Pros:
- Innovative sustainer technology greatly expands expressive potential
- Extensive tonal palette from versatile pickup configuration
- High-quality construction and comfortable playability
Cons:
- Price may exceed the budget of newer players or those seeking simplicity
- Feature set may be excessive for strictly genre-focused guitarists
Compared to the Dean ML79 and Jackson KEX Star, the Retrorocket stands apart with its signature artist-centric features and flexibility, making it suitable for players needing both classic tones and experimental effects in one package.
Key Features That Set Star Shape Guitars Apart
The geometry of a star shape guitar is more than aesthetic—it fundamentally alters how the instrument feels and sounds. In researching and constructing numerous models, I have found that the pronounced points and sharp lines affect mass distribution and vibration patterns, which in turn shifts resonance and tonal envelope. This can translate to a perceptibly quicker attack and longer sustain compared to rounded or compact shapes.
Additionally, the controller layout—volume, tone, and selector switches—often adapts to fit the unique body, sometimes leading to unconventional positioning. This affects ergonomic play as well as rapid adjustments on stage. Materials also play a role: the use of heavier tonewoods amplifies the design’s natural projection, while lighter woods make the dramatic contours more manageable for live performance.
Not all players will find these design elements advantageous. For genres requiring dynamic shifts from rhythm to lead, the distinct balance point can necessitate an adjustment period. Certain models place the neck at a higher angle, enhancing reach for upper register solos but at the expense of the familiar body-center anchor that some prefer. These details underline the importance of hands-on trial—what feels ideal for one artist may compromise another’s workflow.
Ultimately, the hybrid of stage presence and acoustic consequence makes star shape guitars a deliberate choice for those seeking both signature sound and distinctive identity. Prospective buyers should weigh the physical and tonal impacts against their playing goals to determine fit.
Benefits: Why Choose a Star Shape Guitar?
Why might an experienced musician or collector gravitate toward a star shape guitar rather than a more conventional form? Interviews and field observations reveal several pragmatic factors beyond their undeniable visual flair. Players in performance-driven genres (metal, hard rock, glam) often cite “cutting through” both musically and visually as major incentives. Star-shaped designs can deliver a sharper, crisper attack, which proves advantageous for complex, high-energy pieces where note separation is vital.
Ergonomically, certain models distribute weight in a way that reduces shoulder fatigue, especially for players switching between high and low fretboard positions. That said, the benefit is not uniform; some musicians report a learning curve or even discomfort when transitioning from traditional contours.
There’s also a psychological element. Numerous artists have found that wielding a star shape instrument bolsters stage confidence and inspires creativity, echoing findings that visual feedback can influence musical output. Still, aesthetics can be polarizing: some bands and genres may view these designs as too ostentatious for their image or sound palette. In those contexts, a conservative choice could be more appropriate, despite acknowledging that great tone and feel must remain the top priorities.
Buying Guide: How to Select the Right Star Shape Guitar for You
Important insight: Overlooking critical details in a star shape guitar purchase can lead to buyer’s remorse and impede skill advancement. My engineering-based evaluations consistently place build quality and component reliability at the forefront. Instruments constructed from solid tonewoods—like those in the mid/higher tiers from ESP LTD or Dean—offer enhanced sustain and resonance, but these attributes come at a cost. Composite or laminate models can still provide durability and affordability, so it’s worth weighing whether tone, budget, or weight is your top priority.
The electronics deserve special scrutiny. Pickup configuration directly shapes your tone: hot, high-output humbuckers (common on star-shaped designs) excel in high-gain situations but may lack nuance for jazz or blues. If versatility is crucial, consider models with coil split options or hybrid pickup layouts. Extensive research through comparison reviews—as well as firsthand play testing—can prevent disappointment here.
Future readiness matters. The ability to change out hardware, pickups, or even tuning machines, is a practical advantage. Guitars with modular design or standard routing are easier to adapt as your style evolves. Conversely, highly stylized models may restrict these options, so review manufacturer specs closely if long-term adaptability is essential.
Ultimately, the “best” star shape guitar is uniquely tied to your body mechanics, genre needs, and upgrade ambitions. Allowing for thorough trial sessions, and seeking advice from both seasoned players and unbiased reviews, will help ensure your investment provides both inspiration and satisfaction over time.
Where to Buy: Top Places to Find Star Shape Guitars
The search for an ideal star shape guitar often leads players to both familiar and unexpected sources. In my experience—tracking availability for clients and personal projects—online marketplaces like Reverb and eBay have emerged as invaluable resources for both current production and rare, vintage models. These sites are often rich in variety and depth, but standards and authenticity can vary: reviewing seller feedback and verifying serial numbers is advised, particularly for collectible or high-value purchases.
Local music stores, especially those specializing in rock/metal instruments, remain crucial. Trying an instrument in person remains the most reliable way to evaluate weight, balance, and neck feel. Many reputable shops now offer trial periods or exchange policies to encourage experimentation.
The influence of online forums and enthusiast groups continues to grow. Dedicated communities can provide “insider” tips on unlisted sales, trusted luthiers, or upcoming releases. Additionally, custom builders—while usually requiring more time and investment—offer tailor-made guitars that align closely with a player’s ergonomics and tonal desires, an option increasingly sought by gigging professionals.
Tips: Caring for Your Star Shape Guitar
Preventive care is essential to maintaining both the visual impact and functional longevity of a star shape guitar. In my restoration work, I’ve repeatedly seen that dust and moisture, if left unchecked, particularly affect intricate body contours and edges. Gentle use of a microfiber cloth and quality, nonabrasive polish sustains finish integrity—be especially diligent along sharp points to avoid micro-abrasions.
Regularly inspect and replace strings. The contact points on star bodies sometimes induce unusual string tensions, so high-quality, corrosion-resistant sets are a wise investment. Consistent string changes not only preserve tone but extend fretting surface life.
Protection during transport is critical. Standard gig bags often fail to shield extreme body shapes. Invest in a contoured hard case and, when possible, store the guitar in a temperature-controlled environment. Neglecting these steps, I’ve observed, can escalate minor finish checks into expensive repairs on points and horns—most insurance claims arise from transport damage, not performance wear.
FAQs: Star Shape Guitar
What are the standout features of the star shape guitars we tested?
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Conclusion: Should You Get a Star Shape Guitar?
Examining the evidence and field tests, star shape guitars offer more than superficial spectacle—they provide tangible performance attributes alongside iconic aesthetics. Standout models like the Dean ML79 and ESP LTD Arrow-1000 prove that innovative form can coexist with robust sonic capabilities. That said, these designs demand a thoughtful assessment of personal needs; some may find the ergonomics or tonal profile more specialized than versatile. For many players, a star-shaped guitar can become a defining part of their musical identity—provided the choice is guided by critical evaluation rather than trend alone. An informed purchase transforms these bold instruments from novelty into trusted, enduring creative partners. The next chapter in the star shape guitar’s story is written not just by design, but by discerning musicians who know what they want from their instrument.
