Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 PRPL

Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 PRPL review

The Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 PRPL is built around a recognizable angular body, active electronics, and a double-locking tremolo. Its specifications point toward high-gain rock and metal, while the player feedback supplied here focuses on the same strengths: a comfortable neck, effective pickups, and a striking finish. The reported price is 759, with availability listed from September 2023.

This is a specific-purpose electric guitar rather than a neutral, all-round design. The RR body shape, 24 jumbo frets, and Floyd Rose Special system favor players drawn to fast lead work and expressive tremolo use. The Purple Metallic finish with black bevels gives it a bold appearance that several owners found especially appealing.

Body, neck, and playability

The body is poplar, with no separate top. A maple neck and laurel fingerboard form the main playing surface. The neck has a satin finish and a matching headstock, and the fingerboard uses pearloid sharkfin inlays. Its compound radius changes from 12 inches to 16 inches, moving from a more rounded feel near the lower frets toward a flatter profile higher up the neck.

The 25.5-inch scale and 42.9 mm locking nut are familiar dimensions for a full-scale electric guitar. Jackson fits 24 jumbo frets, giving players access to two octaves on each string. One owner described the Jackson neck as comfortable and praised the overall feel while playing. Another bought the Rhoads model for its slim neck and speed, reporting that it suited their solo playing.

The body shape deserves consideration before buying. Its pointed outline is a central part of the guitar's identity, but it may be less convenient than a conventional double-cutaway shape in some playing positions or storage setups. The supplied feedback is strongly positive about the instrument's feel, though it does not provide detailed measurements of setup, fretwork, or weight.

Active pickups and controls

The RRX24 PRPL uses a pair of active Seymour Duncan Blackouts: an AHB-1B at the bridge and an AHB-1N at the neck. Its controls comprise separate volume knobs for the neck and bridge pickups, plus a shared tone control. A three-way switch selects bridge, both pickups, or neck.

One player said these pickups opened up high-gain sounds that had remained out of reach on several other guitars they owned. That is useful context for buyers considering this model primarily for heavier music. The feedback supports its suitability for high-gain playing, but it does not establish how the pickups compare in a controlled recording or across different amplifiers.

The separate pickup volumes provide a straightforward way to balance the two positions. The control layout is simple, with no coil-split switch or additional voicing options listed in the supplied specifications. Players seeking a wide range of built-in pickup configurations should take that limitation into account.

Floyd Rose tremolo and hardware

A recessed Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo is paired with a Floyd Rose Special locking nut. This setup is intended for players who want to use the arm for pitch effects while keeping the strings locked at both ends. One owner specifically wanted a locking tremolo to expand their range of effects and was enthusiastic about the result.

The enclosed Jackson die-cast tuners received a more measured assessment. A reviewer found them functional but not especially smooth. Another owner noted that the bridge, tremolo, and tuners appeared black rather than chrome as expected from the product images, while still liking the guitar's appearance. That observation is worth checking against current retailer photos and stock, since the finish description and the reported hardware appearance do not fully match.

Finish, value, and verdict

The Purple Metallic finish and black bevels are among the model's most consistently praised details. One buyer called the paint gorgeous, while another described the guitar as beautiful and well finished. That same owner mentioned a minor dent on the back of their instrument, so individual inspection on delivery remains sensible. The reported example was otherwise described as being in excellent condition.

At the listed price of 759, the Jackson X Series Rhoads RRX24 PRPL offers a focused combination of active Blackouts, a locking tremolo, and a fast-playing neck. Its strongest case is for players who want a distinctive Rhoads shape and high-gain response without moving into a much higher price bracket. The supplied reviews do not identify major playability or sound problems, though tuner feel and hardware color may be worth verifying before purchase.

Bottom line: The RRX24 PRPL is a compelling choice for metal and hard-rock players who value its active pickups, tremolo range, and standout finish. Its angular shape and specialized setup are less suited to buyers after a conventional, versatile guitar. Confirm the hardware finish and inspect the instrument on arrival.