John Petrucci vs. Steve Vai (Sig Guitars!)

[wessimons5]

Vai better?

To the folks that posted Vai the better guitar player...I think even Vai would argue that comment. Admittedly, Vai has gone off the map and explored areas of the instrument and stage theatrics not seen before him, but Petrucci is technically, the best player I've ever studied.

I love both players (and Lynch, Satriani, Gilbert, Becker, Howe, Bettencourt and others from the shredding days) and have played/studied them for years. I have a degree in classical guitar performance and have studied all forms of music for 25+ years now. Never have I seen someone as technically proficient and mind-boggling as Petrucci.

"Better" or "Best is very relative in music. Here are some observations over the years of playing/watching:

Satriani...the smoothest
Vai...emotion embodied
EddieVH...innovator
Petrucci...technical mastery
Lynch...screaming intensity
Bettencourt...rhythmic genius
and of course...Malmsteen...harmonic minor into the ground

 

[Knox]

I played RGs for years then made a few of my own (check out my sig!) I was addicted to Ibanez for years - right through my teens! They have a great history (check out The Untold Story book) and an endless list of endorsees! John P used to be one so I guess the JP6/7 is an evolution of something Ibanez started. Whilst his sig model was basicaly an RG as is the PGM Model, the Andy Timmons model and the Jem etc, I think EBMM have produced in Johns case a unique guitar in every respect with a load more individuality than the Ibanez had and they didn't need some funny artwork to prove it either!

I now own a 2004 Jem 7VWH which to be honest spends a load of time in its purple velour case and comes on when the guests call to drool over it. Its a very accesible guitar and sounds awesome and the build quality is second to none. Its one of the best guitars in my opinion at least in the Ibanez range. And so it should be. I can't fault it in any way. And it cost me $1000 second hand but the first owner had never had it out of the case. That translates to aboyut £500GBP. Go figure that. A new one costs £1599 GBP over here!

I've been used to the low profile wizard and jem necks for ever! But now in my older age I've fell in love with the Peavey and EBMM birdseye necks of late! I like to feel more wood in my hand now (?!) Myabe its because I aon't all about playing as fast I possibly can anymore to a metronome click set at 600bpm.....!

Since I got my Axis, I'm now in love with EBMM and want more (Thanks Ali) and have become a huge fan of Luke and an even better respect for petrucci (who has always been a hero) I want a lUke and a JP. Its only a matter of time.

Vai vs Petrucci. I disagree with polls like this. OK so there are bad players, but at this level neither Vai or Petrruci are bad. they are both amazing in different ways. I heard JP with Vai and Satriani on the G3 tour and John blew me away. I hadn't received the copy of Suspended Animation prior to the concert so I couldn't wai tto listen to it after!!! I'm so glad its different from his DT stuff but not so far removed as to be unable to distinguish the music as JP!!! Its very satriani almost on some tracks. Especially Carpe Diem! I love it and want a guitar just like his! Maybe then i can compare the Jem and JP.........

Analysis over.

 

[GHWelles]

I used to like those thin flat necks. Until they gave me tendonitis due to no support for the hand. the Petrucci neck is perfect. Pretty flat radius, yet with enogh meat to support the hand. Playing it has actually cured my tendonitis because it allows you to build hand strength while not stressing out the tendons since the hand is supported.