This new Collings 290 in TV Yellow finish pays homage to those 1950s Specials, albeit with a hot rodded tweak that gives it a little "extra" in the tone department. Conceptually, it's like having an old 50s LP Special that got routed for humbuckers - a sometimes surprising but very enjoyable mod.

Forgoing the more traditional P90 pickups for humbuckers - and in this instance, Ron Ellis Bettes - this 290 has a fatter, punchier tone with a thicker lows and low-mids, all without losing the snap you get from a great wraptail electric. These Bettes are just incredible sounding - articulate and responsive, but with stout attack that yields superb note definition and power.

Ellis-equipped Collings electrics are a bit of a rare breed, so we don't pass on the chance to celebrate just how great these guitars are. This is a surefire winner if you're in the market for a no-frills vintage inspired solidbody with incredible build quality and playability.