TEST: Solar Guitars E1.6 AAN

 In today's world, where the instrument industry is saturated to the limit with manufacturers of all kinds, it really takes extraordinary perseverance to successfully establish a new product. Consequently, YouTube influencer Ola Englund, who launched his own guitar brand called Solar Guitars in 2017, deserves great respect, regardless of what one may think of his style of presentation. Englund, who was once active in various bands himself, switched to the field of YouTube influencers due to the better economic prospects and founded his own company at the same time. Solar Guitars now has a wide range of models and has made a very good name for itself in recent years, particularly in the metal sector. This time, the Solar Guitars E1.6AAN, made in Indonesia, will be subjected to a thorough review in this article.

The construction of the Solar Guitars E1.6AAN

It is really easy to see that the visual basis of the Solar Guitars E1.6AAN is to be found in the shape of the Gibson Explorer, although the models differ from each other in many details. I myself was particularly enthusiastic about guitars of the Explorer shape in my early days, but like many other guitarists, I too suffered from the impractical shape, which can actually not be placed on almost any regular guitar stand and also results in very unwieldy case dimensions.

While the problem of storing the instrument can be partially overcome with a hanging stand, the asymmetrical body shape remains a constant challenge for every case builder. Despite the massive body dimensions, the weight of the instrument is rather moderate at just under 4 kg compared to its predecessor, but this is also partly due to the milling work on the Evertune bridge.

The Solar Guitars E1.6AAN has an alder body, which, as is usual with instruments of this body size, is made up of several parts, in this case four pieces of different sizes. To emphasize the aggressiveness of the instrument, the body shape has been freed of all rounded edges, giving the instrument a somewhat more modern, slightly sci-fi-inspired look. The sonic center of the instrument is the full-length maple neck, which is equipped with an ebony fingerboard.

The Solar Guitars E1.6AAN has 22 stainless steel frets, which offers the advantage that the neck pickup can be positioned in the area of ​​the imaginary 24th fret, where it can pick up the best overtone waves. The look of the natural, but stained body reminds me a little of "rustic oak"; my grandmother had a living room cabinet that was exactly the same color. This is not meant to be judgmental, but you won't find any decorative elements such as bindings or inlays on the Solar Guitars E1.6AAN.

The top of the fingerboard facing the musician has been given phosphorescent dot inlays that glow green in the dark and are very useful on dark stages. Interestingly, the Solar Guitars E1.6AAN comes with a short scale length of 628 mm, possibly to reduce the dimensions of the expansive body somewhat. The lockable tuners, which run in an 18:1 ratio, bear the Solar trademark on the bottom, but remind me a lot of Grover tuners. Perhaps an OEM collaboration. The instrument comes with a gig bag that offers at least moderate protection during transport. However, only a solid case or a professional case will help against serious scratches or broken headstocks.

The electronics of the Solar Guitars E1.6AAN

The Solar Guitars E1.6AAN is once again equipped with the very popular Fluence Modern pickups from Fishman. These pickups enjoy a loyal fan base, especially in the metal sector, as they can be switched between two characters using a switch. The switching process is carried out by the master tone control, which is designed as a push/pull control. The two characters of the pickups are called "Vintage" and "Modern" and determine their respective areas of application. However, you should be aware that the "Vintage" character should not be confused with a passive humbucker of the vintage class, but only reduces the aggressiveness of the pickups. A master volume control is available for general volume control.


The Evertune Bridge

Despite its increasing popularity in recent years, the Evertune Bridge is still a special feature in the hardware sector. The design is based on a well-thought-out spring system that prevents the guitar from going out of tune in any way. This has advantages and disadvantages. As soon as the system is set for a certain string thickness, detuning due to temperature or humidity differences, excessive finger pressure or mechanical influences is ruled out. At the beginning of the system, many producers in their studios were very relieved because even musicians with less technical skills could now offer clean intonation in the studio.

However, with this factory setting, all modulations of the tone, such as bending or vibrato, which shape the individual sound of the artist, are balanced out or eliminated. This severely limits the expressiveness of solo playing on an Evertune Bridge. However, it is possible to adjust the system within its mode of operation so that these modulations in the string tension are taken into account, although this requires precise adjustment, which must be made again when changing to a different string thickness and the associated change in the string tension.

Despite good adjustment, a certain degree of indirect response remains even after readjustment, but maintaining the tuning despite adverse conditions compensates for this limitation. Ultimately, everyone has to decide for themselves which tonal behavior they prefer, so I don't want to give a rating on the mode of operation. However, it should be noted that a quick change of tuning, for example to Drop D, is not possible with the Evertune Bridge. If several tunings are required within a set, it is advisable to have several instruments with the respective tunings available and to switch between the instruments.

The Solar Guitars E1.6AAN in practice

Yes, and there it is again, the horrific problem that I had in previous tests of Solar Guitars and which I cannot understand even with the best will in the world. If you connect the instrument to the amplifier, no sound is heard! The reason for this is quickly found: once again, there is no battery in the battery compartment. I can understand that the manufacturer is worried about the battery leaking if the instrument is stored for a long time, but then at least a 9V block should be included with the instrument along with a leaflet that draws attention to the situation. I am sure that many beginners start troubleshooting with a big question mark on their foreheads, which is really unnecessary.

After the guitar was finally equipped with a 9V block for the electronics, it was able to show off its sonic strengths. The sound is specifically geared towards the heavy range and impresses with a crisp response with a focus on the high mids. Although the instrument is comparatively heavy, it hangs well balanced on the strap and is comfortable even when sitting down. The two pickups can be adjusted very well to suit your personal playing style thanks to the vintage and modern voicing settings.

For the recording, the instrument was connected to a Hughes & Kettner Triamp MK3 and a Marshall 412 cabinet with Celestion G12 75T speakers and picked up with 2 Shure SM 57 microphones. The instrument's factory settings were very good, so no further adjustments were necessary. The Evertune bridge also showed no loss of sustain or ringing noise, as was the case with the first versions of the system a few years ago. The luminous fingerboard markings turned out to be a real highlight, as they started working even at dusk. Overall, the Solar Guitars E1.6AAN meets all expectations thanks to its focus on the target group, both visually and acoustically. The workmanship is, as usual, very good and it is once again impressive how Indonesia has built up high-quality craftsmanship within the country within a short period of time.

Conclusion

Once again, Solar Guitars has successfully addressed its target group with the Solar Guitars E1.6AAN. This instrument is an excellent tool, especially for lovers of hard'n'heavy music, and thanks to the Evertune bridge, it can forgive sloppy intonation if necessary.

While experienced solo guitarists might experience a subtly uncomfortable playing feel, rhythm guitarists benefit greatly from this system. Just give it a try!

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Additional Informations:

In the ever-evolving landscape of music and digital media, Ola Englund stands as a compelling figure. A Swedish guitarist, producer, and entrepreneur, Englund has carved out a niche for himself that spans beyond traditional music roles, venturing deep into the realms of social media and content creation. His journey, characterized by relentless passion and a clear vision, offers an intriguing case study of how the music industry intersects with the digital age.

### Early Years and Musical Beginnings

Ola Englund was born on September 27, 1981, in Stockholm, Sweden. Like many young musicians, his journey began with a deep-seated love for music, fostered in his early years. Englund’s initial foray into music was heavily influenced by the metal genre, which has remained a constant throughout his career. Bands like Metallica and Megadeth shaped his musical tastes, and by the age of 12, he had already begun to explore the guitar.

Englund’s early musical education was largely self-directed. He spent countless hours honing his skills, driven by a passion for the intricate and powerful sounds of metal. This dedication paid off, and by his late teens, he was not only proficient but also developing a unique style that would later become his signature.

### The Rise to Prominence

Englund’s professional breakthrough came with his involvement in the band Feared, which he co-founded in 2007. The band’s blend of death metal and progressive elements garnered a dedicated following, establishing Englund as a serious musician in the metal community. Feared’s discography is a testament to Englund’s songwriting abilities and his knack for blending brutality with melody.

However, it was Englund’s entry into the band Six Feet Under that significantly elevated his profile. Joining the American death metal band as a guitarist in 2011, Englund’s work on the album *Undead* showcased his ability to seamlessly integrate into an established act while contributing his unique sound. His tenure with Six Feet Under, although relatively short, was pivotal in expanding his reach and influence.

### Digital Media and Content Creation

What truly sets Ola Englund apart is his foresight in leveraging digital media. Early on, Englund recognized the potential of platforms like YouTube to connect with a global audience. In 2008, he started his own YouTube channel, initially sharing guitar tutorials and gear reviews. His approach was both technical and accessible, making complex concepts understandable to a broad audience.

Englund’s channel grew exponentially, driven by high-quality content and his engaging personality. He became known for his honest and thorough reviews of guitars, amplifiers, and other gear, providing valuable insights to both amateur and professional musicians. His content often includes demonstrations, comparisons, and personal opinions, delivered with a blend of expertise and relatability.

### Solar Guitars: The Entrepreneurial Venture

In 2017, Englund took a significant step by launching his own guitar brand, Solar Guitars. This venture was a natural progression, combining his deep understanding of musicians’ needs with his entrepreneurial spirit. Solar Guitars quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality instruments tailored to the demands of modern metal guitarists.

Englund’s hands-on approach to Solar Guitars is evident in every aspect of the brand. From design to production, he is involved in ensuring that each instrument meets his exacting standards. The brand’s success is a testament to Englund’s ability to translate his vision into tangible products that resonate with musicians worldwide.

### Personal Brand and Community Engagement

Ola Englund’s influence extends beyond his musical output and entrepreneurial ventures. He has cultivated a strong personal brand characterized by authenticity and transparency. Whether discussing gear, music, or personal experiences, Englund maintains an open and approachable demeanor that resonates with his audience.

Englund’s engagement with his community is multifaceted. He regularly interacts with fans through social media, responding to comments, participating in discussions, and even incorporating audience feedback into his content. This level of engagement fosters a sense of community and loyalty among his followers, who feel a personal connection to him.

### Challenges and Criticisms

No career is without its challenges, and Englund’s journey is no exception. Balancing multiple roles as a musician, content creator, and entrepreneur requires a significant amount of time and effort. The pressure to consistently produce high-quality content and innovative products can be daunting.

Additionally, Englund has faced criticisms, particularly in the realm of digital media where scrutiny is high. Some detractors argue that his commercial ventures, such as paid reviews or brand endorsements, might compromise his objectivity. However, Englund has addressed these concerns by maintaining transparency about his business relationships and ensuring that his reviews remain honest and unbiased.

### Legacy and Impact

Ola Englund’s impact on the music and digital media landscapes is undeniable. He has successfully navigated the complexities of modern media, using it as a tool to enhance his musical career and entrepreneurial endeavors. His journey reflects the changing dynamics of the music industry, where traditional pathways are increasingly supplemented by digital innovation.

Englund’s legacy is multifaceted. As a musician, he has contributed to the evolution of metal through his work with various bands and his solo projects. As a content creator, he has provided invaluable resources to the guitar community, demystifying gear and techniques for aspiring musicians. As an entrepreneur, he has demonstrated that with vision and dedication, it is possible to build a successful brand that resonates with a global audience.

### Conclusion

Ola Englund embodies the spirit of modern musicianship, where creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship intersect. His journey from a passionate young guitarist to a prominent influencer and successful entrepreneur offers valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges of the digital age. Englund’s ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to his roots serves as an inspiration to musicians and content creators alike. As the music industry continues to evolve, figures like Englund will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.