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John Birch Red Special Replica

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Page last updated Mar 27, 2026

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Description

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The John Birch Red Special Copy is a meticulously crafted homage to one of the most iconic guitars in rock history. Known for its distinctive sound and unparalleled versatility, this electric guitar is perfect for musicians who want to explore a wide range of musical styles. Inspired by Brian May's legendary design, this model features a handcrafted mahogany body and a unique bridge system that enhances sustain and tone. The guitar's solid body construction ensures durability and robust sound quality, making it an excellent choice for stage and studio performances alike.

The neck is designed for optimal playability, featuring a smooth, fast-action fingerboard that allows for effortless transitions across its frets. Equipped with high-output pickups, the John Birch Red Special Copy delivers a range of tones, from warm, creamy lows to bright, cutting highs, giving you the flexibility to tailor your sound to any genre or playing style. The guitar also incorporates precision hardware and tuning machines, ensuring that your instrument stays in tune during even the most demanding performances.

This guitar doesn’t just pay tribute to a classic; it brings it to life with modern enhancements that ensure outstanding performance every time you play. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, the John Birch Red Special Copy offers the sound, feel, and quality you need to make your mark.

Key Features:

Handcrafted mahogany body
Unique bridge system for enhanced sustain
High-output pickups for versatile tonal range
Smooth, fast-action fingerboard
Precision hardware and tuning machines

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James Rundle

Different Guitars Brian May Has Used Over The Years With Queen

James Rundle

The Different Guitars Of Brian May Flying V Les Paul Stratocaster Burns Telecaster Ovation

James Rundle

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about John Birch Red Special Replica.

Features and functionality

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The guitar includes a unique preamp circuit output for additional boost, allowing for more powerful amplifier drives.
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Notably has nine pickup pole pieces, rather than the typical six or twelve, which is unusual for a six-string guitar.
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Equipped with a 3-plug MIDI output, likely for enhanced rig integration.
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Build quality

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Original JB Hyperflux G pickup at the neck; notable for continuous magnets to prevent bend-drop and resin-baked to mitigate screechback.
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Use cases and applications

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This guitar was custom-built for Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, indicating its suitability for heavy metal and rock genres.
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Value and pricing

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Professional appraisal recommended, as similar guitars have been listed on Reverb for around $6,000, though market willingness may vary.
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Brian May

Keyboardist, Guitarist

Queen

Verified via YouTube

Brian's first copy and main backup from 1975ish till 1982, built by luthiers John Birch and John Diggins. It had flaws which created unstable tuning and a stressful show in New Jersey 1982 saw the guitar flying over the Vox stack and landing in 3 pieces. Eventually sent away to Fender's John Page and returned 20 years later, it was repaired and once again resides in Brian's private collection as a memento of the Queen days. “I suppose you know the story of its demise? Did I throw it over the amps in a fit of pique? Well, obviously I would never do that… [laughs]. But yes, I think that’s what happened. The featured link shows the guitar during it's use during the "Spread Your Wings" music video.