Jackson has launched a slew of new X Series electric guitars, including new Soloist, Dinky, Rhoads, Kelly and Warrior models.
Leaning heavily on visuals, the drop sees a host of new looks from Camo Soloist and Rhoads models to eye-popping Neon Dinkys and even a Ferrari Red Kelly.
There are some new specs to unpick, too, particularly in the Soloist category, where a range of new pickup and body wood options are also available.
The instrument giant has also bolstered its bass guitar arsenal in the form of new-look Concert and Spectra models, which also feature new colorways and technical innovations.
Join us as we break down each new X Series addition below.
Jackson X Series Soloist
First under the microscope is the new SLA6 DX Archtop Baritone, which dons a 26.5" scale length, arched nyatoh body, through-body maple neck and 12"-16" compound-radius laurel fretboard. Available in Satin Black, it also boasts Active EMG 81 and 85 pickups and sleek body binding.
It’s joined by the SLX DX Camo, which packs a pair of high-output Active Jackson covered pickups and a Tiger Jungle Camo colorway. Aside from this, it’s a usual SLX DX, and features a nyatoh body, through-body maple neck and laurel fingerboard.
Speaking of usual SLX DXs, Jackson has introduced Red Crystal and Granite Crystal finishes to its standard-line X Series Soloist models. It features the same specs as the Camo version, though it opts for a poplar body and Duncan Designed HB-103N and HB-103B humbuckers.
Last but certainly not least is the SL3X DX Crackle, which has received a more significant shake up. It features a basswood body and a graphite-reinforced neck, as well as a laurel fretboard and an HSS pickup configuration comprising mini high-output rail humbuckers and a high-output bridge pickup.
Price-wise, the SLX DX is the cheapest of the bunch at $699, while the SL3X and SLX DX Camo will set you back $899 and $849, respectively. The baritone model lists at $899.
Jackson X Series Dinky
Previously only available in Neon Green, Gloss Black and Cobalt Blue, the DK3XR HSS now comes in two new looks: Neon Pink and Caution Yellow.
As a reminder, the guitar comes equipped with a Jackson high-output bridge humbucker pickup and two Jackson single coils, as well as a laurel fingerboard, Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo and a color-matched reverse headstock.
Price-wise, Jackson's 2022 Dinky model retails at $599.
Jackson X Series Rhoads
Also new for 2022: the X Series Rhoads RRX24 now comes in a Winter Camo colorway. Specs include a nyatoh V-style body, through-body maple neck and 24-fret 12"-16" compound-radius laurel fingerboard.
Electronics come by way of a pair of high-output Jackson humbuckers, while its spec sheet is completed by a recessed Floyd Rose trem and pearloid sharkfin inlays.
The Winter Camo Rhoads is available now, and carries a price tag of $899.
Jackson X Series Kelly
Up next is the Kelly KEX, which has been treated to a new Ferrari Red aesthetic, joining a previously available Gloss Black finish.
To recap its spec sheet, the Kelly KEX features an angular, offset body comprising poplar body wings and a through-body maple neck, as well as a 12"-16" compound-radius fingerboard with pearloid sharkfin inlays and 24 jumbo frets.
The KEX is available now for $799.
Jackson X Series Warrior
Another angular offering arrives in the form of the radically styled, none-more-black WRX24, which features a Satin Black finish, black high-output pickups, black pickup rings and black hardware.
Other specs include a double-locking Floyd Rose tremolo, compound radius laurel fretboard, a through-body maple neck and a 25.5” scale length.
Jackson's WRX24 is set to cost $749 when it arrives this May.
Jackson X Series Concert Bass / Spectra Bass
In the bass department, Jackson has also bolstered the X Series with the CBXNT DX V Concert Bass and SBX IV Spectra Bass.
Taking them one at a time, the five-string Concert Bass features a 35” scale length, speed maple neck contour, 12”-16” compound radius, a pair of J-Style and P-Style Jackson pickups and, for the first time, a Gloss Black or Snow White finish.
It’s also worth noting the onboard three-band EQ, newly designed Jackson Bass Bacher V hardtail bridge and sealed die-cast tuning machines.
Finally, the Spectra Bass is available in Gloss Black and Matte Army Drab, and comes loaded with a nyatoh body, through-body maple neck, compound laurel fretboard and a pair of medium-output humbuckers.
Again, it features a three-band active EQ, but also boasts a push/pull volume control that bypasses or engages the active circuit. Final touches include a HiMass hardtail bridge, versatile blend control and 24 jumbo frets.
The Concert bass is priced at $799, while the Spectra model will set you back $699.
Jackson's revamped X Series range joins the updated Concept Series lineup, which promises Custom Shop hardware without the eye-watering price tag.
