Nick Jennison takes a look at another new addition to Spira Guitars' 420 range with the superb S-420. Building on the foundation of the S-400, the S-420 introduces key upgrades aimed at the modern rock and metal player. Constructed with a roasted poplar body, its double-cutaway design allows easy upper-fret access to a super-fast roasted Canadian maple neck, while the locking tremolo system delivers excellent pitch control and divebombs without compromising tuning—no matter how far out you want to go.
Spira might not have the decades of legacy behind some big-name guitar brands, but with the S420, they've come out swinging. This is their first model with a double-locking tremolo system, and it's clear from the start that they're aiming high.
The first thing you'll notice is the chameleon finish. It isn't just pretty—it's genuinely striking, shifting from turquoise to blue to deep purple depending on the light. It looks every bit as good in a home studio as it does under stage lights.
Spira's bold reverse headstock ties the whole look together, and the inclusion of a locking nut means tuning stability is a given. For anyone playing heavier styles or just using the whammy bar a lot, there's even a removable string dampener—one of those clever details that keeps stray string noise at bay.
The S420's neck is made from Canadian roasted maple, which brings both a sleek satin feel and a healthy dose of tuning stability. The "tech ebony" fretboard looks and feels like the real thing, and the fretwork is top-tier—big, comfortable frets and perfectly finished edges. There's also a lot of thought in the inlay placement, making it easy to keep track of your position whether you're riffing or soloing up high.
As for the body, you get Spira's aggressive double cutaway design, making upper fret access a breeze. The repositioned strap button is a practical touch that helps the guitar hang comfortably when you're standing, though it might take a little getting used to if you play sitting down a lot.
The double-locking tremolo, made by Sungil in Korea, is a real highlight. It's easy to set up, feels stable, and keeps your tuning rock solid, even with the most expressive use of the trem arm. The screw collar lets you choose whether you want the bar floating or locked in place.
Electronics are often where budget guitars stumble, but Spira's "villain" humbuckers are a pleasant surprise. The bridge pickup is hot and tight (12.4K), perfect for riffs and leads, while the neck (8.3K) is full and smooth, just right for solos and clean tones. The middle position gives you a lively, sparkling clean. There's no coil split from the factory, but the pickups are wired for it, so it's an easy upgrade if you want even more versatility.
What's impressive is how well the S420 handles different styles. It's clearly built for modern rock and metal, but it's equally at home with clean funk, bluesy licks, or classic rock leads. The factory setup is dialed in, so you can get playing right away.
Then there's the price. For everything you're getting—roasted maple neck, quality hardware, that unique finish, and great pickups—the S420 is extremely affordable. It's a guitar that punches well above its weight.
Bottom line: The Spira S420 is a standout in the crowded world of modern electrics. With thoughtful design, solid hardware, and real sonic versatility, it's a serious option for anyone looking for pro features without the big-ticket price. Spira might be the new kid on the block, but the S420 proves they know what today's players want.
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