A guitar with two necks is commonly referred to as a double-neck guitar. This unique instrument features two separate fretboards and headstocks, allowing the player to switch between different tunings, string configurations, or even different types of guitars (such as a six-string and a twelve-string) without changing instruments. While it is not as widely used as standard guitars, the double-neck guitar holds a significant place in music history, particularly in rock, progressive, and jazz genres.
In this comprehensive article, we will explore everything you need to know about double-neck guitars, including their origins, advantages, disadvantages, famous players, and how they are used in various musical settings.
The History of the Double-Neck Guitar
Origins and Early Development
The idea of a guitar with multiple necks dates back centuries, with some early stringed instruments featuring multiple necks for different tunings. However, the modern double-neck guitar as we know it today started to gain popularity in the 1950s and 1960s.
Gibson was one of the first manufacturers to produce a commercially successful double-neck guitar. The Gibson EDS-1275, introduced in 1958, became an iconic model, famously used by legendary rock guitarists. Other brands, such as Ibanez, B.C. Rich, and Gretsch, also produced double-neck guitars, each with its own unique design and purpose.
Evolution in Rock and Metal Music
By the 1970s and 1980s, the double-neck guitar became a symbol of technical mastery. Guitarists in progressive rock and heavy metal bands embraced the instrument for its versatility. The ability to seamlessly switch between different necks during a performance allowed musicians to create dynamic and complex arrangements that would otherwise be difficult with a single-neck guitar.
Why Do Some Guitarists Use Double-Neck Guitars?
The primary reason for using a double-neck guitar is convenience and versatility. Below are some of the key benefits of using a guitar with two necks:
1. Switching Between Tunings Instantly
Many guitarists use different tunings in their performances. With a double-neck guitar, a player can have one neck tuned to standard tuning and the other in an alternate tuning, such as Drop D, Open G, or DADGAD. This eliminates the need to switch guitars mid-performance.
2. Combining a Six-String and a Twelve-String Guitar
One of the most common configurations of a double-neck guitar is having one neck as a traditional six-string guitar and the other as a twelve-string guitar. The twelve-string produces a richer, more harmonically complex sound, making it ideal for rhythm sections, while the six-string is used for solos and lead work.
3. Using One Neck for Lead and One for Rhythm
Some guitarists prefer to have one neck dedicated to rhythm playing while using the other for lead guitar solos. This is particularly useful in progressive and metal music, where the transition between rhythm and lead needs to be smooth and immediate.
4. Different Tonal Qualities and Pickups
Many double-neck guitars have different pickup configurations for each neck. For example, one neck might have humbuckers for a warm, thick tone, while the other has single-coil pickups for a brighter, more articulate sound. This allows for more sonic flexibility in live performances.
Disadvantages of Using a Double-Neck Guitar
While a double-neck guitar offers many advantages, it also comes with some drawbacks:
1. Heavy and Bulky Design
One of the most significant downsides of a double-neck guitar is its weight. These guitars are much heavier than standard guitars, making them less comfortable for extended performances. Many guitarists experience shoulder strain and fatigue when using a double-neck guitar for long periods.
2. Expensive and Less Common
Because of their specialized design, double-neck guitars are more expensive than regular guitars. Custom-made models can be particularly costly. Additionally, they are not as widely available as standard guitars, making them harder to find in local music stores.
3. Difficult to Play and Master
Playing a double-neck guitar requires a high level of skill and coordination. Switching between necks seamlessly takes practice, and the extra weight can make it harder to maneuver on stage. Many beginner and intermediate players find double-neck guitars challenging to handle.
Famous Guitarists Who Use Double-Neck Guitars
Many legendary guitarists have used double-neck guitars to create some of the most iconic performances in rock history. Here are some of the most notable players:
1. Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin)
Jimmy Page made the Gibson EDS-1275 famous by using it during live performances of “Stairway to Heaven.” The twelve-string neck was used for the song’s delicate intro and chord sections, while the six-string neck handled the soaring guitar solo.
2. Alex Lifeson (Rush)
Rush’s Alex Lifeson frequently used a double-neck guitar in live performances, particularly in complex songs that required quick transitions between twelve-string and six-string parts.
3. Don Felder (Eagles)
Don Felder used a double-neck guitar when performing “Hotel California.” The twelve-string neck was used for the song’s distinctive intro, while the six-string was used for the lead solos.
4. Steve Howe (Yes)
As a progressive rock guitarist, Steve Howe used a double-neck guitar to execute intricate compositions that required switching between different tonalities and techniques within the same song.
Should You Buy a Double-Neck Guitar?
If you are considering purchasing a double-neck guitar, here are some things to consider:
1. Do You Need the Extra Neck?
If you frequently switch between tunings, twelve-string and six-string guitars, or lead and rhythm playing, a double-neck guitar might be a great addition to your collection. However, if you only play one style of music, a regular guitar might be more practical.
2. Can You Handle the Weight?
Double-neck guitars are heavy. Before investing in one, try playing a similar model to see if you can comfortably handle its weight.
3. Budget Considerations
Double-neck guitars are generally more expensive than standard guitars. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider whether you truly need one or if a single-neck guitar with a quick tuning system will suffice.
Conclusion
A guitar with two necks is called a double-neck guitar, and it is a remarkable instrument that provides versatility for musicians who need multiple tunings, different string configurations, or quick transitions between playing styles. Although double-neck guitars are not for everyone, they have played a crucial role in rock, progressive, and metal music, with many legendary guitarists making them famous.
Before purchasing a double-neck guitar, consider whether the benefits outweigh the challenges, including the instrument’s weight, cost, and playability. If you are an advanced player looking to expand your musical possibilities, a double-neck guitar could be an exciting addition to your collection.
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