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Average Price: $650
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Description
Experience the revolutionary fusion of classic craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology with the James Tyler Variax JTV-59. This digital modeling guitar is designed for musicians who crave versatility without sacrificing the tactile joy of playing a traditionally built instrument. The JTV-59’s Variax HD technology unlocks a world of sonic possibilities, allowing you to access an impressive array of electric and acoustic tones at the flick of a switch. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar offers unparalleled adaptability to suit any musical style or setting.
Crafted to the exacting standards of master luthier James Tyler, the JTV-59 boasts a solid mahogany body and a carved maple top for a rich, resonant sound. Its "Fast n' Flat" neck profile and 22-fret Macassar ebony fingerboard provide exceptional playability, while vintage-voiced Alnico humbuckers deliver classic tonal warmth to complement the digital modeling system. With the included Workbench HD software, you can customize every aspect of your sound—altering tunings, tweaking pickup positions, and even crafting entirely new instrument models to fit your unique musical vision.
Key Features:
- Onboard Variax HD technology for diverse electric and acoustic tones
- Solid mahogany body with a carved maple top
- "Fast n' Flat" neck profile with a 22-fret Macassar ebony fingerboard
- Custom-designed vintage-voiced Alnico humbuckers
- Includes Workbench HD software for comprehensive tone customization
- Designed by master luthier James Tyler for superior playability and performance
- Comes with lithium-ion battery, switching power supply, and Workbench USB adapter
Product specs
| Brand | Line 6 |
| Model | JTV-59 James Tyler Variax Modeling Electric Guitar |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | Korea, Republic of |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Wrap-Around |
| Color Family | Black |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
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What type of neck profile does the James Tyler Variax JTV-59 have?
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The James Tyler Variax JTV-59 features a 24.56"-scale mahogany neck with a set-neck construction, providing a comfortable and familiar feel for players accustomed to traditional electric guitars.
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How does the Variax modeling system in the JTV-59 work?
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The Variax modeling system in the JTV-59 processes the sound from individual strings to replicate the tones of various classic guitars and instruments, offering a wide range of sonic possibilities without needing multiple guitars.
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Are the pickups on the JTV-59 suitable for rock music?
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Yes, the dual vintage-voiced alnico humbuckers on the JTV-59 provide a rich, full sound ideal for rock music, delivering both powerful leads and thick rhythm tones.
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Does the JTV-59 require a special power supply for the modeling features?
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The Variax modeling system in the JTV-59 can be powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, allowing for cable-free operation during performances.
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Is the James Tyler Variax JTV-59 suitable for beginners?
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While the JTV-59 offers advanced features and versatility, its traditional single-cutaway design and familiar controls make it accessible for beginners who want to explore a wide range of sounds.
Videos
Guitar World
Line 6 JTV-59 James Tyler Variax
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile instrument with multiple models and tunings for live and studio use
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Convincing Fender tones, suitable for players with smaller hands
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Excellent acoustic and 12-string modeling for authentic sound
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Stock pickups provide powerful, Les Paul-comparable tones
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High playability with a well-balanced weight
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Offers a high-quality guitar experience even without using modeling features
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Shorter scale beneficial for players with smaller hands
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Convenient for altering sounds without carrying multiple guitars
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Realistic sitar and Danelectro sound models
CONS
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Drop D tuning may produce a digital, tinny sound
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Tele and Strat models may lack authenticity
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Line 6 Variax JTV-59.
Software and compatibility
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The Workbench app is functional but visually outdated, resembling an older Flash application.
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Other
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Some users report a dissonance when playing at low volumes, hearing standard tuning acoustically while outputting alternate tunings through speakers.
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Features and functionality
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The JTV-59's electronic controls have been described as flimsy, though users relying on external gear like the Helix circumvent this issue.
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Owners note that the JTV-59 allows seamless switching between electric and convincing acoustic tones mid-song, which is particularly useful for live performances.
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JTV-59 offers unlimited alternate tunings with a "virtual capo" feature, allowing custom tunings to be saved on the fly.
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The JTV-59 has a set neck with a sculpted heel, allowing smoother access up the neck.
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The JTV-59's stock humbuckers are high output, making clean amp settings growl slightly.
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Comparisons
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Users find the JTV-59's playability comparable to high-end guitars, though it may not match the feel of a $2000 Strat or Les Paul.
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JTV-59’s acoustic models sound better than some cheaper piezo pickups but not as good as a studio-mic'ed acoustic.
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The neck profile is comparable to a '59 Les Paul, different from PRS wide-thin necks, making it suitable for those preferring LP or SG styles.
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Use cases and applications
User experience
Setup and maintenance
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Some users experienced battery issues causing erratic behavior, resolved by using a Line 6 DI box as a power supply.
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Build quality
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Line 6 Variax JTV-59, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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