Guitar Tricks Insider Gear Reviews of 2017 | Page 30

ELECTRIC GUITAR
like P-90 tones to complement the fatter
humbucker textures, as well as dial in
precisely the mix you like—its way to re-
voice your pickups at any time, at home
or on the gig.
How does Reeves’ guitar play? We
plugged into various tube amps and
digital amp-sims, and were rewarded
with ample beefy tones from this rock
machine. Naturally, we started with
the gain tones, going for some fat riffs
in the AC/DC and Led Zep school, and
the Dirtbike had no problem navigating
those turns. With its vintage-style neck
and that Railhammer pickup, we were
in humbucker heaven quickly. That said,
the guitar also cleaned up nicely, yielding
warm cleans and a variety of single-coil
textures using the Bass Contour knob.
There are no shortage of fine, usable
tones in here.
VERDICT
The Reeves Gabrels Dirtbike is a cool
axe for the 21st-century guitarist. It
possesses retro looks that are matched
with an excellent neck setup and battle-
ready hardware. Add in the whammy
and custom pickup, and you can get
any number of tones here, though no
question, this Reverend solidbody wants
to play loud, intense music. From heavy
rock and blues, to modern and country-
rock, the Dirtbike will handle all with
ease. It also sits in the comfortable mid-
price range, within reach of most players.
In sum, the Reeves Gabrels Dirtbike
balances vintage and modern concepts in
a workhorse solidbody that’s ready for
any gig. ■
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GUITAR TRICKS INSIDER
2017 GEAR REVIEWS