The Bc Rich Mockingbird combines aggressive styling with versatile tone-shaping capabilities, making it a popular choice among guitarists who want both visual impact and sonic flexibility. This article compares the most common models and features of the Mockingbird, helping you make an informed decision based on your playing style and preferences.
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Reviews
This B. C. Rich Mockingbird combines aggressive metal tones with versatile onboard controls including a 6-position varitone knob and coil-tap functionality. The basswood body and quilted maple top deliver impressive sustain, while the Floyd Rose locking tremolo system keeps your notes perfectly in tune during those signature divebombs. The included Rockfield Mafia pickups cut through any mix with clarity and aggression, though some players may want to experiment with third-party options for a different tonal character. Overall, it delivers the goods for both new and experienced players looking to capture that classic B. C. Rich sound without breaking the bank.
This modern electric guitar combines premium materials like quilted maple and mahogany with a sleek neck-through-body design that ensures excellent tone and playability. The Floyd Rose tremolo system and high-output DiMarzio pickups offer versatility for various playing styles, while the 24-fret ebony neck and compound radius fingerboard provide exceptional comfort during solos. Built in South Korea, the guitar delivers professional-quality craftsmanship at an accessible price point.
This limited-edition B. C. Rich Mockingbird Extreme combines sleek modern design with cutting-edge performance features. The mahogany body and neck-through construction deliver exceptional stability and sustain, while the Fishman Fluence humbuckers offer versatile tone with precise articulation. The Floyd Rose 1000 Series locking tremolo system maintains perfect intonation throughout your biggest bends and dives, so you can focus on nailing those intricate rhythms and leads.
B. C. Rich's Mockingbird guitar demands more than a ordinary case, which is why you'll want to invest in this premium hardwood option crafted in South Korea. The 4.5 kg case delivers exceptional protection with its solid construction and snap-lock closure, while the sleek black finish with the brand's distinctive logo adds a touch of class. This form-fitting design ensures your guitar arrives at its destination in pristine condition every time.
This guitar combines a classic black finish with a bolt-on maple neck and rosewood fingerboard for a comfortable, responsive playing experience. The humbucker pickups deliver ample output for high-gain tones while preserving the warmth of your wood's natural character. Built in China with a durable string-through-body bridge, the MK1 offers exceptional value for its price point.
The B. C. Rich Ironbird MK1 packs ruthless sustain and razor-sharp clarity into a neck-through design that makes upper-fret access a breeze. That sculpted Ironbird body doesn't just look wicked—it'll keep you churning out aggression on stage for hours without complaining. The Di-Marzio Super Distortion bridge humbucker delivers searing tones that demand attention, while the Floyd Rose tremolo system lets you dive bomb with reckless abandon knowing your tuning won't break loose in the heat of battle.
Buyer's Guide
The Bc Rich Mockingbird represents a significant innovation in guitar design, combining aggressive aesthetics with high-performance features. Understanding its key aspects will help you make an informed decision based on your playing style and preferences.
Aesthetic Features
The Mockingbird's distinctive design stands out with its two humbucker pickups and a distinctive floating bridge system. These elements create a visual impact that many players find compelling, though personal style preferences vary significantly.
Construction and Build Quality
The guitar's construction typically features an alder body for a bright, articulate tone, with maple or rosewood fingerboards that offer excellent playability. The attention to detail in craftsmanship, especially around the floating bridge setup, can affect both playability and longevity.
Electronics and Pickup Configuration
The two humbucker pickups deliver a powerful sound signature that combines clear fundamentals with rich overtones. Properly wound and matched pickups are crucial for optimal tone, and the switching system should provide clean transitions between pickup configurations.
The floating bridge system is designed to enhance sustain and projection while offering tuning stability. However, players should consider their comfort with this setup, as it requires regular maintenance and adjustment to maintain optimal performance.
FAQ
What makes the Bc Rich Mockingbird unique?
The Bc Rich Mockingbird stands out with its distinctive single cutaway body design and chambered construction, which reduces weight without compromising tone. Its 25.5" scale length and 1.75" nut width provide a more comfortable playing experience.
The Mockingbird features a 3-way toggle switch, master volume, and master tone control. Each guitar comes with either a Bc Rich bridge or a tremolo system, giving players versatile setup options.
Can you explain the significance of the Mockingbird's control setup?
The 3-way toggle switch allows for standard humbucker configuration options, while the master volume and tone controls offer familiar tone shaping capabilities. This setup balances traditional bridge humbucker functionality with Bc Rich's characteristic sound.
Players with tremolo systems have additional options for synchronized vibrato use, while those with standard bridges retain simple humbucker controls. The versatile control layout matches the guitar's intended playing styles.
What woods are typically used in Bc Rich Mockingbird construction?
The Mockingbird commonly features a maple or mahogany body with a rosewood or maple fingerboard. The chambered body design helps maintain the wood's natural tonal characteristics while reducing weight.
Les Paul-style mahogany construction provides warmth and fullness, while maple bodies offer brighter, more pronounced mid-range tones. Rosewood fingerboards enhance sustain and add depth to the overall sound.
What maintenance requirements do Bc Rich Mockingbirds have?
Regular maintenance includes checking and adjusting the truss rod, cleaning and oiling the pivot screws on tremolo systems, and periodically checking and tightening the tuners. The chambered body means less moisture absorption, so changes in humidity affect the neck less than solid-body guitars.
The rosewood or maple fingerboard should have its finish refreshed periodically, and the strings should be changed every 2-3 months depending on playing intensity. The 3-way switch and control pots should be cleaned and lubricated to prevent corrosion.
How does the Bc Rich Mockingbird compare to other similar models?
Compared to standard Les Paul-style guitars, the Mockingbird's chambered body and bridge/tremolo options make it more versatile. Unlike many custom shop models, it balances premium features with more accessible pricing.
Players who prefer the sound of maple bodies will find the Mockingbird's output cleaner and more clear than denser mahogany models. The single cutaway design offers easier access to higher frets compared to full humbucker guitars with solid construction.
What is the typical price range for a Bc Rich Mockingbird?
Entry-level Mockingbirds typically start around $1,800 to $2,200, depending on the wood choices and whether they come with bridge or tremolo systems. Mid-range models featuring premium wood appointments can reach $2,800 to $3,500.
Custom shop or limited-edition models may exceed $4,000, while used condition examples ranging from mint to good vintage state can be found from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the model year and serial number.
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