There are guitars you admire from afar, and then there are guitars you’ve secretly wanted since the moment you first saw one in a sweaty rehearsal room or on a grainy VHS of a stadium gig. For me, the Jackson Pro Origin Series falls firmly into the latter. It’s got that unmistakable San Dimas silhouette—the kind that screams attitude before you’ve even plugged it in.

Built to honour Jackson’s early days in Southern California, these guitars aren’t just retro for the sake of it. They feature pickups developed using the original recipe that helped define the sound of a generation. Translation: they growl, scream, and sing exactly the way you’d hope a Jackson would. If you’re into metal, hard rock, or just want something that feels alive in your hands, this is it. (One of my students who I give guitar lessons to has an original).

As someone who teaches guitar lessons in Nottingham and spends a fair bit of time setting up instruments for students and pros alike, I can say this: the Pro Origin isn’t just a looker—it’s a player’s guitar. It’s the kind of instrument that inspires you to dig deeper, play harder, and maybe even write that riff you’ve been chasing for years.

I’ve wanted one for ages. And now that they’re back, I’m seriously considering making room in the rack. (Though let’s be honest—there’s always room for one more.)

Check them out at jacksonguitars.com. Just don’t blame me if you end up ordering one.