NAMM 2022: Rapier Saffire 6 and 12-string models

03 Jun 2022 by Jef |

5,0 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 2 Minutes

Rapier Saffire 12-string in Greenburst · Source: Rapier

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These new Rapier Saffire 6 and 12-string models were designed by Alan Entwistle and are based on classic British ’60s guitars designs. The collaboration with JHS sees Entwistle offer these retro styles, with modern playability for 2022.

Rapier Saffire

The new Rapier Saffire models come in 3-Tone Sunburst, Greenburst and Vintage White finish. Each comes fitted with a set of custom-built Astrosonic single-coils, which have 7mm Alnico 5 pole pieces. These are wired via a five-way selector switch with a single volume and tone pot.

3-Tone Sunburst

Specifications

With an Okoume body, paired with a bolt-on hard rock Canadian maple neck that has a soft ‘C’ profile and a 12” fretboard radius, these models should be pretty robust and play well. Last year’s Rapier 33 models had a similar build. I have heard some good things about these, so I suspect this new model will be just as good.

They have the same zero fret, GraphTech Nubone nut, Wilkinson E-Z-Lok tuners and roller bridge/vibrato as those 33 models as well, so all solid hardware choices. The 12 string version has a 12-string is a hardtail bridge instead and some with a 49mm nut width, as opposed to the 43mm of the 6-string model.

Rapier Vintage White 12-string

Tones

They also have Entwistle’s Smooth Track Tone Control for the tone control and you get the ATN5 dial, which is a five-way rotary switch mounted on the upper horn of the guitars. Rapier states it offers “a wide range of additional tonal extremities, from acoustic-like qualities, mid-range boost and high-end chime and clarity for extreme tonal versatility.”

I think these new Saffire models will be popular and the price points are very good as well. The 33 models have already gained quite a following online, so I suspect these new models will too. Not a bad upcharge for a 12-string model either, and you have all those tones you can experiment with courtesy of the ATN5 dial.

MSRP – Saffire 6 GBP 479 and Saffire 12 GBP 549