I’ve been wanting this guitar for a while, but I’m definitely working with a budget. I found two versions for under $300—one from 2024 and another from 2021. The other ones I’ve come across are over $1,000 and mostly from before 2010. Does anyone know if there’s a significant difference between the older and newer models? Would the cheaper, newer ones be good enough?
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The older ones, especially the pre-2010 models, are usually made with higher-quality materials and are closer to what Zakk himself used. That’s why they’re so expensive. The cheaper ones you found are likely from Epiphone or similar brands, which aren’t bad at all, but you’ll notice differences in things like the pickups and overall craftsmanship.
I’ve played both an older Bullseye and a newer one, and yeah, the difference is mostly in the build quality. The older ones were probably made in smaller batches with more attention to detail. The newer ones are more mass-produced, but if you’re not super picky, they can still sound great! I’d recommend testing them if you can, just to see how they feel.
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I’d second that. The older models tend to have better pickups—some had EMGs, which are what Zakk uses, and that’s a huge part of his sound. The newer, cheaper versions might come with more basic pickups, but you can always swap them out later if you want. I say go with the newer one if you’re on a budget. You can still get that Bullseye look and feel without breaking the bank.
I’m not too picky about having an exact replica, just want the look and something decent to play with for now. Sounds like the newer models will work for me, and I can always upgrade the pickups later if I feel like it. I’ll probably go with the cheaper one to start with!
Totally agree with everyone here. If you’re just starting out with the Zakk Wylde stuff or you’re more focused on looks than replicating his exact tone, the newer, cheaper ones will do the job. They’re still cool guitars and definitely fun to play. If you’re serious about getting that exact Zakk Wylde sound though, you might want to save up for an older model or be ready to mod the newer one with some better pickups.