The B.C. Rich Bich is one of the most unique and visually striking electric guitars in rock and metal history. With its aggressive, asymmetrical body shape, high-end craftsmanship, and versatile tonal options, the Bich stands out both in looks and performance. Originally designed in the 1970s, the Bich became a favorite among hard rock and metal guitarists, thanks to its powerful sound, ergonomic design, and advanced electronics.
Over the decades, the B.C. Rich Bich has been played by legends like Joe Perry (Aerosmith), Slash (Guns N’ Roses), and Lita Ford, proving its versatility beyond just heavy metal.
1. The Origins and Evolution of the B.C. Rich Bich
The Birth of the Bich (Late 1970s)
- The B.C. Rich Bich was designed in the late 1970s by luthier Neal Moser, who worked with B.C. Rich to create a guitar that combined cutting-edge electronics, exotic tonewoods, and a bold aesthetic.
- The original 10-string Bich was designed to provide thicker, more harmonically rich tones, featuring four additional sympathetic strings (like a 12-string guitar but without the extra weight).
- This made the Bich perfect for high-gain leads, complex chord voicings, and experimental sounds.
The 6-String Bich (1980s Onward)
- While the 10-string Bich was unique, many players preferred the traditional 6-string version, which became more widespread in the 1980s and 1990s.
- The 6-string Bich retained the aggressive shape and premium craftsmanship but simplified the electronics for a more player-friendly experience.
- Over time, the Bich became available in various models, from budget-friendly versions to high-end custom shop guitars.
Evolution into the Modern Era
- Modern versions of the B.C. Rich Bich include upgrades like active pickups, Floyd Rose tremolos, and extended-scale lengths for drop tunings and heavier playing styles.
- The B.C. Rich Custom Shop still produces handcrafted Bich models with exotic tonewoods, custom finishes, and elaborate electronics.
2. The Unique Design and Construction of the B.C. Rich Bich
Distinctive Body Shape
- The B.C. Rich Bich is instantly recognizable due to its asymmetrical double-cutaway shape, which features sharp horns and an extended lower bout.
- This design provides excellent access to higher frets while maintaining a striking, aggressive look.
- The Bich’s design is comfortable to play, despite its sharp edges, as it is well-balanced whether sitting or standing.
Tonewoods and Build Quality
- Early Bich models were crafted from high-quality woods such as:
- Mahogany (warm, rich tone with sustain).
- Maple (brighter tone with added attack).
- Koa (exotic and resonant, often found in high-end models).
- Some modern Bich models feature neck-through construction, improving sustain and upper-fret playability.
Neck and Fretboard
- The Bich typically has a thin, fast-playing neck, ideal for shredding and complex solos.
- Common fretboard materials include:
- Ebony (smooth and dark, with tight response).
- Rosewood (warmer and more organic feel).
- Most models feature 24 frets, giving players a full two-octave range for soloing.
Pickups and Electronics
- The Bich’s electronics are among its most advanced features, especially in early models.
- Depending on the model, the Bich is equipped with:
- High-output humbuckers for thick, heavy distortion.
- Coil-splitting options for single-coil tones.
- On-board active EQ circuits in some versions for extra tone shaping.
- Many vintage Bich models feature multiple mini-switches, allowing players to engage phase switching, coil tapping, and preamp boosts.
- Modern Bich models often include EMG active pickups for high-gain clarity and power, making them ideal for metal and hard rock.
Bridge and Hardware Options
- The Bich comes with various bridge configurations, including:
- Tune-O-Matic bridges for better sustain and tuning stability.
- Floyd Rose tremolos for extreme dive bombs and vibrato effects.
- High-end models often feature locking tuners to improve tuning stability.
3. The Sound and Tone of the B.C. Rich Bich
The B.C. Rich Bich is a tonal powerhouse, offering deep lows, punchy mids, and crisp highs.
Clean Tones
- The neck pickup delivers warm, full-bodied clean tones, making it great for blues, jazz, and atmospheric playing.
- The coil-splitting feature (in some models) allows for brighter, Strat-like clean tones.
Overdrive and Crunch Tones
- The bridge humbucker provides thick, crunchy distortion, perfect for classic rock and hard rock.
- The mahogany-bodied versions offer rich sustain and midrange warmth.
High-Gain and Metal Tones
- The Bich truly excels with high-gain tones, making it ideal for metal, thrash, and shred guitar.
- The neck-through construction of some models ensures maximum sustain and a tight, aggressive low end.
- With EMG pickups, the Bich delivers clear, punchy attack even in extreme metal tunings.
4. Famous Players Who Used the B.C. Rich Bich
Joe Perry (Aerosmith)
- Played a 10-string Bich on several Aerosmith tours.
- Loved its thick, resonant tone and extended range.
Lita Ford
- One of the first female rock guitarists to use the B.C. Rich Bich.
- Her custom models often featured Floyd Rose tremolos and custom paint jobs.
Slash (Guns N’ Roses, Velvet Revolver)
- Used a B.C. Rich Bich during the early GNR days.
- Enjoyed its unique tone and sustain for heavy blues rock.
Neil Giraldo (Pat Benatar)
- Played a custom Bich with on-board preamps for a wide tonal range.
5. Notable Variants and Signature Models
B.C. Rich Bich 10-String
- The original 10-string model, featuring four extra strings for enhanced harmonic overtones.
- Perfect for thicker chords and unique textures.
B.C. Rich Bich NJ Series
- A more affordable version with modern features like Floyd Rose tremolos and active pickups.
B.C. Rich Custom Shop Bich
- Hand-built models with exotic woods, high-end electronics, and unique finishes.
Bich Extreme
- Features high-output pickups, a Floyd Rose tremolo, and a sleek modern design.