In a tribute to the legendary Eddie Van Halen, Wolfgang Van Halen unveils the eagerly anticipated EVH SA-126 signature guitar. This landmark release coincides with Eddie Van Halen’s birthday, adding a deeper layer of significance to the launch. After extensive testing on tour, Wolfgang’s dream guitar is now a reality.
Wolfgang EVH SA-126
Nearly two years of anticipation culminate with the arrival of the EVH SA-126 Special, Wolfgang Van Halen’s signature guitar. This launch not only ends months of eager waiting but also commemorates Eddie Van Halen’s birthday, the namesake of this special instrument.
Tribute to Eddie
The genesis of the SA-126 dates back to March 2022. Wolfgang Van Halen announced that his signature guitar would honor his late father, mirroring the sentiment of Eddie’s song “316,” dedicated to Wolfgang. This guitar release stands out for its emotional depth and the intense anticipation from fans.
Mammoth
Over the years, details about the Mammoth WVH frontman’s signature guitar trickled out. Wolfgang not only confirmed its existence but also hinted at the features fans could expect from this highly awaited instrument.
The EVH SA-126 debuts in two distinct versions, each available in two finishes. Options include a Stealth Black or Matte Army Drab maple top, and a more striking Transparent Purple or Tobacco Sunburst finished quilt maple top. While Wolfgang’s onstage relic’d models are not yet available, they may feature in future expansions.
Specifications
The SA-126 boasts consistent features across both models: a mahogany body with a basswood center block, a bolt-on mahogany neck with an EVH modified C shape, and a 22 jumbo-fret ebony fretboard with a 12”-16” compound radius. The guitar also features a 24.75” scale length, Harmonica bridge, stop bar tailpiece, and distinctive Mammoth-style inlays.
EVH SA-126 humbuckers
Soundwise, the guitar is equipped with custom-wound EVH SA-126 humbuckers by pickup expert Tim Shaw, offering unique volume and tone controls for each pickup.
Wolfgang Van Halen shares, “The SA-126 is about finding my unique sound. It blends the warm tones of a semi-hollow guitar with the distinctive style and neck of EVH gear. Like my father’s approach with the Wolfgang guitar, we’ve refined it through rigorous testing.”
Price and Availability
The standard SA-126 Special is priced at $1,799, while the SA-126 Special QM is available for $1,899. Shipping is set for May. This launch is a testament to Wolfgang’s dedication to creating an instrument that resonates with his musical journey and pays homage to his father’s enduring legacy.
