Jackson Concept Series Soloist SL27 EX in limited edition

In 2024, the Jackson Concept Series aims to give a fresh look to a variety of classic Jackson designs, while making subtle improvements in specifications that will delight even the most die-hard Jackson traditionalists.

Jackson Concept Series

The Jackson Concept Series Limited Edition Soloist SL27 EX is essentially the embodiment of that mission, featuring a bold, modern aesthetic that is both new and familiar.

With its subtle, glossy black finish, the SL27 EX screams metal, and who would expect anything else from a Jackson?

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This time, however, the neon yellow accents on the Seymour Duncan pickups and 12-fret inlay create an immediate contrast that’s bold enough to make an instant statement without going over the top and sliding into kitsch.

As is typical for Jackson guitars in this price range, this model comes with Jackson’s signature foam core case. Essentially, it’s a deluxe gig bag that fits the Soloist perfectly. There’s even room inside for essential accessories like cables, Allen keys, and the indispensable spare pack of strings.

In classic Jackson style, the body of the SL27 EX is carved from alder, a resonant and relatively light tonewood that is well suited to down-tuned modern metal as well as virtuoso shred escapades.

One aspect of the SL27 EX that sets it apart from a standard soloist guitar is the fact that it has a curved top, a feature adopted from traditional single-cut guitars.

This type of top generally feels more comfortable to play, especially over extended periods of time, as the smooth contour of the front of the instrument provides a molded surface on which the player’s forearm can rest.

Since this Jackson is a solo guitar, it features a neck-through design, this time made from three pieces of maple with graphite reinforcement built right into the construction. This ensures that the SL27 EX’s neck remains stable under a variety of different conditions, whereas other instruments can be prone to shifting the neck curvature.

The SL27EX’s neck is finished in a beautiful satin and feels fantastic to play. This is due in part to Jackson’s signature 12-16″ compound radius and the instrument’s high-quality stainless steel frets.

Another feature that sets the Jackson Concept Series Limited Edition Soloist SL27EX apart from its pointy-headed brethren is the fact that its flawless ebony fingerboard features 27 frets.

Not only did Jackson hammer these frets into the neck of this instrument, but it’s clear that a lot of thought went into how to make them easily accessible for even the smallest of hands – a feature usually reserved only for top-of-the-line Custom Shop models.

A subtle feature that will make a difference for musicians on gigs is the side Luminlay dots on the SL27 EX. These position markers actually glow in low light conditions, ensuring you never lose track even on the darkest stages.

Combining these specs with the fact that the SL27 EX’s neck profile is neither too thin nor too thick means it feels great whether you’re playing the arpeggios of a maestro or the most neanderthal chug.

In terms of hardware, Jackson has chosen to include a Floyd Rose 1000 series tremolo on the SL27 EX, a common device on guitars of this class. These tremolos are both durable and reliable, so you won’t break a sweat even on the craziest divebombs.

In addition, Jackson has solved the tuning problem and included a set of their own sealed die-cast tuners. Again, these are quality units that will give you years of tuning satisfaction.

Seymour Duncan TB-6 Distortion Trembucker

In terms of electronics, we’re on familiar ground with a set of American Seymour Duncan humbuckers. This time we have a TB-6 Distortion Trembucker in the bridge and a single coil sized Hot Rails Strat humbucker in the neck position.

These pickups are a fantastic choice for the Jackson Concept Series Limited Edition Soloist SL27 EX. Essentially a tried and tested JB model with a ceramic magnet, the Duncan Distortion is the ideal companion for crunchy, tight rhythm work.

Likewise, the angled Hot Rails Strat neck pickup provides a smooth, glowing lead tone that will satisfy even the most stern shredders. Neon yellow accents on both pickups give them a sweet custom shop look that’s guaranteed to make you stand out in the crowd.

The controls are rounded off by a master volume, master tone and three-way switch. A subtle design feature that can easily be overlooked is the fact that the pickup selector switch is placed in front of the volume and tone pots.

This is great news for players who like to have their pickup selector switch within easy reach, as the volume control is well hidden and there is no risk of it accidentally falling during a set.

The Jackson Concept Series SL27 EX is a fantastic option for any player looking for a powerful shred axe with killer looks. But beware: If you’re actually interested in one of these rippers, you’ll want to act fast, as this is a limited edition model that won’t sit on the shelves of your local Jackson dealer forever.

For local Jackson enquiries visit Jackson Australia.