Burns Guitars, a British guitar brand, was founded in 1960 by Jim Burns, a visionary guitar maker who is often referred to as the “Leo Fender of Britain.” The company quickly became renowned for its unique designs, high-quality construction, and innovative features, particularly their tremolo systems. Jim Burns’ influence on the electric guitar industry is significant, as he was always experimenting with new designs and materials to create groundbreaking products. Burns Guitars is based in London, UK, and has been a major player in the electric guitar world, particularly throughout the 1960s, providing instruments for prominent musicians like Hank Marvin of The Shadows.
The Burns Tremolo Systems
One of the key features that set Burns Guitars apart is their innovative approach to tremolo systems. The company developed several tremolo units, including the famous Rezo-Tube Tremolo system, which was designed to offer better sustain and tuning stability while providing smooth tremolo bar action. The tremolo bar on Burns guitars allows players to achieve pitch bends and vibrato effects effortlessly, making it popular among surf rock, rock ‘n’ roll, and experimental musicians who rely on the whammy bar for expressive playing.
The tremolo systems from Burns are known for their balance between smooth operation and robust engineering. Unlike many other tremolo bars, which can cause tuning instability, Burns’ designs focus on maintaining tuning while still allowing aggressive tremolo bar use. These whammy bars are smooth and responsive, making them highly sought-after for players looking to add dynamic vibrato effects to their sound.
Popular Burns Guitars
Some of the most famous guitar models from Burns Guitars include:
Burns Marvin: This guitar was designed in collaboration with Hank Marvin and became a favorite among guitarists in the 1960s. It features the iconic Rezo-Tube tremolo system and a unique body shape that distinguishes it from other electric guitars. The tremolo bar in this model allows for a high level of precision and responsiveness.
Burns Bison: Known for its wild body shape and its versatile tonal range, the Burns Bison has a rich history. It features three high-output pickups and the Rezo-Tube tremolo system. The tremolo bar provides a smooth range of motion, perfect for players who need a reliable whammy bar that won’t throw the guitar out of tune.
Burns Cobra: The Burns Cobra is an affordable yet high-quality guitar known for its fast neck and ease of playability. It also comes with a responsive tremolo bar, ideal for players who love to use whammy bar techniques.
Consumer Reviews
Overall, Burns Guitars have been well-received by consumers for their durability, playability, and unique sound. Many players praise the tremolo systems for their smooth action and reliable tuning stability. The whammy bars on these guitars are particularly noted for their precision, making it easy for players to create wide pitch bends and subtle vibrato effects without detuning the guitar. Many reviews highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of Burns Guitars, with particular emphasis on their tremolo bar design, which continues to be a key selling point.
Musicians who have used Burns Guitars often comment on the instruments’ ability to stay in tune even after extensive tremolo bar use, which is a common issue with other tremolo systems. The Rezo-Tube tremolo, in particular, receives praise for its unique approach to balancing sustain with tremolo functionality. These guitars also hold a certain vintage charm that appeals to collectors and players alike.
Where to Buy Burns Guitars
Burns Guitars are available through several retailers worldwide, both new and vintage models. Here are some places where you can purchase Burns guitars:
- Burns Guitars Official Website: The official home page of Burns Guitars, where you can find their current lineup and make direct purchases.
- Reverb: A marketplace where you can find both new and vintage Burns Guitars, including popular models like the Marvin, Bison, and Cobra, often featuring detailed listings on the condition of the tremolo bar and overall guitar quality.
- eBay: A good place to find vintage Burns Guitars and tremolo systems for collectors and players who appreciate classic models.
- Andertons Music: A well-known UK-based retailer that stocks a variety of Burns guitars.
In summary, Burns Guitars has made a lasting impression in the world of electric guitars, largely thanks to their distinctive tremolo systems. Whether you’re a player looking for the smooth action of a tremolo bar or a collector of vintage instruments, Burns’ tremolo-equipped guitars offer a reliable and innovative option that continues to resonate with musicians today.
