I bought my first Shecter guitar back around 1977 when David Schecter still owned the company... Schecter was strictly a parts guitar company, back then. I bought all of the parts and built it myself , a Stratocaster copy... and a damn good one. I finished it in a walnut stain and tung oil, with a copper pickguard and copper plated hardware. It was a looker, for sure. I sold it back in the early 80's, to buy a Peavey Mace amp. I still miss that guitar and wish that I had kept it, the body, neck and parts were better than what Fender was offering from that era (and cheaper than a Fender).... At least I still have the Peavey Mace, so I guess that's a good thing.
Schecter back in the day offered tapped pickups which were really cool! Congrats on the Mace. I still use mine, super clean shape, from 1981. I have EVM12L’s in it now since the BW’s melted. Amp is a BEAST! 😊😊
I just wish they had more solid colors finish options, otherwise I think schecter is the the best bang for your buck on an electric guitar. They come setup and feel great
Agree on the finish. The finish design feels like something I would have picked when I was in high school in like 2001, right before I went to the paintball store then went home and played Tony Hawk Pro Skater.
@@guyincognito320 I disagree, they have different looks for different things. Of course, MOST of their guitars kinda lean into that 2007 emo/punk/metalcore era of style but they definitely do have that California sunburst or open grain look if you want something less eye-catching.
@@wingsoficarus1139 None of the trad looking guitars have steel frets or nice Floyds on them. Every guitar that has the desired specs also comes with the sponge paint jobs and funky inlays. Blackjacks are great, except they're black and glossy. I'm just not buying any guitars until all these maker start using steel frets, and probably not buying gloss guitars anymore either. The prices are out of control and the specs don't get better.
@@guyincognito320 I disagree, I have 4 Ibanez RGs, and I think they look cool af, and I also have a Schecter C-7, headstock is... interesting, but it looks pretty cool, too.
I agree. My Schecter C1-FR is my #1 in my collection and I have Gibson Les Pauls, Fenders, Kramers, Charvels, Gretsche and others. My Schecter has the sound, the weight is perfect, stays in tune for the whole gig, and the craftsmanship is equal to all others.
I agree that Schecter has a reputation as a metal guitar brand, but they have quite few non-metal models that I really wish people would give more publicity too. The Nick Johnston strat is the only one I see that gets much attention, but they have other really cool looking non-metal stuff. I'd love it if you could ask them to send you some for review! They have some acoustics (including a 7 string), the PT Special tele looks awesome for only $700 (along with other tele variants), hollow and semihollows that I'm interested in but never see, the Ultra III is wild looking. Plus their various LP's and 80's style stuff.
I got a Schecter omen 6 and I love it and I love the Gothic inlay once stop playing it I have a hard time stop playing it the only thing I probably will change is the strings I love D’Addario
Bought a Schecter Gryphon for $300 in 2004. it remains my favorite electric. It's got some upgrades and has "worn in" well, but it was great out the box.
I got the Schecter C-1 in a Sweetwater exclusive finish called Aquaburrst. It is just gorgeous. It has a real Floyd, the SD Full Shred in the bridge and the Sustaniac in the neck. Ebony board, Grover machines and the jumbo frets. I paid over $1200 with tax and will put it up against any high end guitar from any company. I found the perfect strings. The D'Addario NYXL 9-42 (I think. Maybe 46?) they sound and play sooo good. The action is super low and no fret buzz. Anyways, it's a gem and because of it's exclusive finish I have been offered more than I paid. No way I am getting rid of that thing. This guitar you're showing us today is a real beauty too. That finish is siiick!
24:56 a relative of mine says the same thing about my “shredder guitars”. I own three different Schecters: C-1 SLS FR Elite in Black Fade Burst, Hellraiser C-1 FR in Trans Black Flame, and CR-6 in Red Burst. All are amazing.
I recently got my first schecter after a few years of playing high end stuff (aristides, suhr). Got a banshee mach 7 and it's a fantastic guitar i'm really pleased with it!
You just need to dig in and start your note with a nice squeeky harmonic. Covers that chirp right up and adds a a nice Italian icepick in the ear; so no one will forget the f# passing tone you threw in there. 😬
I have never played a Schecter I did not like and personally I feel they are one of the best values on the market for a guitar. Great Demo and I will have to say that I agree that the bridge pickup needs to be a bit warmer it is extremely bright for a humbucker; however, it does sound the bees knees in a clean voicing.
I absolutely love my Silver/Black Silver Mountain. Love the way it feels. Stays in tune and just rips! Did not have to touch my bridge at all. Set up was also spot on.
I bought some Monster Bolts replacement screws for the bridge saddles in my modded 2009 lefty Squier Affinity Strat about two months ago and it was the best cheap modification I've made so far.
Love the addition of the cheese grater test. I'm a always-resting-my-hand-on-the-bridge kinda guy, so comfort on the bridge is super important to me. I got highwood saddles for my strat, but the big one, for me, is I always swap out TOM bridges for roller bridges. SO much more comfy for the palm mutes. Am I the only one who does that? I'm surprised it's not something I hear more, because for me it makes such a difference...
I have the Schecter C-1 E/A and the build quality is amazing. Super comfortable to play and the Piezo sounds great. The Diamond Plus Humbuckers are a bit dark to me and I will probably change them out soon. Another guitar I just got that has amazing quality for the price is my Vola Vasti V3 MC. It is superb Japanese craftsmanship for under 1k.
I teach some lessons and do occasional tech work out of a Guitar Center, and I can grab any guitar off the wall for my lessons. I find myself defaulting to Schecters because they seem to be one of the only companies that actually sets up their guitars and basses decently from the factory (at least the $500+ ones). I wish I liked more of their designs, because I'd definitely buy one if it looked how I wanted. After seeing that clip of A7X with a headless guitar, I've got hopes for a headless 7 string from Schecter in the future. Great content as always! (I learned a lot of the tech skills I use at work from your videos)
Super-fantastic video, thanks so much! I've largely been a PRS player for decades now, and there have been very few guitars from other makers that have 'spoken' to me. That said, the one other brand of electric which has always felt and sounded really good to me is Schecter. I've really liked literally every single Schecter guitar I've ever played, from the very moment I picked it up. Weirdly, though, I've never owned one. You've just made me realise that it's about time I did own a Schecter, so I plan to pick up this model as soon as possible. And I was thinking I'll likely tune it to D-standard. I also like your idea of swapping out at least the bridge pup. I think we as guitarists should do our best to support the work of makers who produce well-made, consistent instruments at decent prices. Brilliant, cheers!
Great timing, Phil! I just bought a Schecter Reaper Elite and was having the same issues with that bridge. Grabbed myself some of those Fender screws from Monster Bolts!
I had a Schecter Avenger Diamond series from the 90’s that guitar had real mother of pearl binding around the guitar and headstock, loaded with Duncan Design PU’s, schaller tuners, bone nut, string through design. It was an awesome guitar to play and it had a varied tonal range. It did favour overdrive to get the sustain and gain at the optimum for my ears. Regrettably I sold it a number of years ago after having it for 20 odd years. Schecter build awesome instruments and value for money for sure.
I have a C1 Helraiser Hybrid FRS. Its amazing. Trans black, which actually looks dark green, over quilt with carbon fiber binding, body neck and headstock! Sustaniac and an EMG, Floyd Rose, Grover tuners. Its beautiful. I got it at a yardsale for less than 300 bucks and it cleaned up like a brand new guitar. Best deal ever!
Man, I don’t know how many Schecter review videos I’ve seen, but I never hear anyone being disappointed. It doesn’t matter if it’s something like one of their traditional-ish PT “Teles”, their LP style Solo models, or one of their many shredder guitars. The quality and price combo is really hard to beat. My Nick Johnston HSS “Strat” is no exception. It’s everything a classic Strat should be, but with so much more. It’s the only Schecter I’ve ever had, so I don’t think I qualify as a fan-boy. Maybe if I ever get the PT Special I’ve always wanted, it’ll be official.
I have by sheer accident a Schecter Solo 6 Classic. Wanted a semi-hollow but a steal of a second-hand deal got me interested. Due to the slightly unusual shape, not very many people are interested. But it is my best playing guitar.
I have a Schecter Sun Valley “Super Shredder” tele (seafoam green) with sustaniac. The way it came set up really blew me away. Great neck, super super smooth.
I use my vol & tone knobs on all my guitars because I rely more on my sound from my guitar and amp than I do with pedals. All I need from my amp is a bluesy break up, reverb and vibrato. The rest is up to my fingers and my guitar. Perhaps it is because I can not use my feet due to paralysis to turn on/off pedals or other?. I dunno!?! No matter, I’m happy to have learned to get the most from what is in my hands.
I bought a schecter silver mountain in the classic silver finish with the floyd rose and sustainiac over a year ago, it's my favorite guitar and it looks so good! It plays like a dream.
The issue with Schecter to me is they once were a top-notch quality brand. Then they became synonymous with aggressive pointy guitars in typical colors for a certain genre and a certain way of playing, so they become a no-go for anyone that was not into that kind of music. The Nick Johnson models were an exception, but I still tend to click away when I see or hear the name Schecter for I'm not into 'their' genre.
Got my first Schecter about a month ago. Had the Hellraiser with the Sustainic on back order for months and months. The thing is amazing. I own American Strats, and a Gibson LP, and my first take away with the Schecter was, so this is what a premium guitar feels like. The fretwork, the floyd rose, everything was perfect out of the box. If what I got was standard Schecter quality for $1300, Fender MIM or MIA have no business costing more than $800, that makes me think the Fender brand name is worth $500 a pop. The one downside the the Hellraiser is the weight, but with all the electronics and floyd rose, that comes with the territory.
I bought a new C1 Diamon Series XXX edition in college around 2007, and that guitar played great the whole time i had it! Very stable, and I could keep pretty low action with little to no audible buzzing. I finally traded it to a kid because I felt the stripper inlays were a bit cringy and having a teenage daughter... It didn't seem appropriate, lol. But great guitar!
A while ago you bought up The Alvarez guitar with the Graphite neck an how you were a fan of that neck . I was lucky enough to get one of the necks an had stainless frets put on it an it is the most articulate guitar I own by a country mile
Phil... Wonder if you agree or disagree with my current thinking about jazz guitar amplification: I am a one-man-dog playing along with .WAV files into a PA system. I am moving away from my stereo Fender CyberTwin SE to a PodGo wireless stereo effects pedal, because it supports cabinet IRs, much more variety of amps than the Fender amp, and is infinitely lighter to move. However, I still have occasional jamming needs for a portable guitar amp. So, believe it or not, I have a stereo Roland Street Cube EX, with 2 x 8" speakers + tweeters. It is literally a compact PA system. I am considering upgrading the speakers for 8" FRFR speakers used in luxury marine boats. Why? 4 ohms and designed from scratch for FRFR. This would make the cube amp closer to an FRFR system. I would tweek the EQ from the PodGo. Is this improper thinking? A dead end or a flexible future? Thanks...
I don't own a Schecter guitar, but I have two B-stock 4-string Schecter basses: Stiletto Extreme (made in Indonesia) and Model T Session (made in South Korea). Both are outstanding in every way, including sound. In fact, I like the sound of the Model T Session almost more than my more expensive American basses. You just can't go wrong with Schecter.
I've got a 2005 Schecter C1 Classic with the Seymour Duncan JB / Jazz combination and it's an absolutely amazing guitar. A true neck-thru construction with phenomenal playability and really just an all around high quality, top-notch instrument. The craftsmanship on these guitars was nothing short of superb.
The necks on these are 3 pc Mahogany with carbon fiber reinforcement rods . Ive got the C-7 Multiscale version in same finish. Specs are the same though for the build side. The neck should be rock solid. Mind stays in tune perfectly. I couldnt ask for a more stable axe. It feels amazing, has weight but not so much you dread wearing it. Finish is amazing, love mine.
Bought my first Schecter 3 years ago just to check it out (just didn't know much about them nor tried one) .... now have 5. I play them more than my 2 Suhr's and custom built Warmoth. They just make great playing guitars at really great prices. Don't like the sound when you get it ... just upgrade the electronics to your choosing and you will still likely be far cheaper than most "other" brands after the mod. Love all 5 but my favorites out of them are the PT Pro (stock pickups), Sun Valley Super Shredder Exotic (installed a JB in bridge and 59 in neck and added coil splitting) and the Nick Johnston (installed a Thornbucker and Little 59 in neck and a Custom Stack in the middle with coil splitting). Can't recommend them enough.
I wanted to buy a 7 string Apocalypse Red with FR and Sustainer for few years, but when I got an opportunity, their guitars went up in price in Europe. So instead of EUR 1.2k they are 1.8-2k. And unfortunately, I just can't justify spending money on them, when I can get at least 2 great guitars for that price...
I own a Schecter Diamond series C-1 platnium with active EMG 81 and 85. It's a hard tail through the body and its a beast...I got it in Satin Blue with quilted top and it's plays phenomenally. It has locking tuners also...
Hi Phil, another great deep dive, I love when you analyse in detail the intricacies of a guitar in relation to the setup & player technique. By the way, stunning looking guitar. Only downer for me was when you changed to the Engl amp, you lost me with the bridge pickup, I found it extremely muddy indeed, only to be cleaned up by coil split. Not sure if it was an amp setting or the pickup itself? Tc, Cheers ✌️🎸
I've got the red one in a 7 string multiscale version. My absolute favorite guitar ever. I havent even played any of my other guitars since I got it last November. Schecter makes quality guitars. If anyone reading this is on the fence about getting one...jump in with both feet...you wont regret it.
Had a Hellraiser single cut as a teenager, and had a slightly upgraded hellraiser with a Floyd in college. Moved away from them for a bit, tried a Kiesel, a strandberg, an Ibanez for my 7 string needs and ultimately landed on a Mach-7 Banshee from them that is better than all of those other guitars. Strandberg is the only one I felt really rivals it. The others were great, but hang for buck that Mach 7 is in a league of its own hands down
You might want to try adjusting the pickup heights to the low strings raising ended up a tad and dropping the pickup High strings believe me 1/32 of an inch can make a huge difference just the slightest variable can bring up the brilliance with the low strings and the high strings
Schecter.. My favourite guitar brand for sure. Like many here have already stated I have just loved every Schecter i've ever picked up.. Awesome quality and fit and finish and also just that special magic that can be hard to find in many guitars (and ive owned many of the big boys).. Im also not a metal guy by any means either
I have one of these in the blood moon color. Schecter has some of the best bang for buck you can get. The Schecter USA pick ups on this guitar are really good.
As a lefty metal guitarist I've always played Schecter guitars. I've always loved them, however I recently got an Ormsby Hype GTR 7 Run 16, and it's genuinely so much better to me. It's like it was made for my hands and body.
I have a C-1+ that I bought in 2001that I put a Seymour Duncan JB in the bridge and a Dimarzio Humbucker From Hell in the neck. It is a great combo. The Dimarzio is the most underrated pickup ever. It is probably the most versatile guitar that I own. BTW they were doing USA QA / setups even back then. Everyone who has played it has wanted to buy it but they haven’t wanted to pay what it would take for me to part with it.😂
Until earlier this year I never thought I’d be a Schecter guy - Ibanez, PRS, MusicMan ‘til I die… I was so wrong. I now have a Nick Johnston HSS and an Aaron Marshall AM-6. They’re simply extraordinary. Beautiful to play, beautiful to look at. So I’m now a Schecter guy.
Beautiful guitar! The Graph tech black tusq, hipshot, and stainless steel frets have me really considering this one.. However, I have small hands short fingers. Is the thin C okay fer this, or should I look into ultra thin do you think?
Mahogany say no more, many guitar players like to discuss tone woods and many don’t believe it makes any difference. I hear it every time I pick up a mahogany guitar unless it’s so cheap you know it’s coming wrong from the git go. I recently bought a Grote LP style p90 guitar off Amazon. $179.00 list. I new two things. Beautiful to look at and made of mahogany. Neck thru. So I automatically new the electronics were junk and most likely the tuners. Surprise the tuners are fine. But it needs two new p90’s and pots etc. so for another $100 bucks I got a nearly $300 dollar guitar that works for me. Just wanted to share, I know not everyone likes working on guitars or knows how that’s fine. But I dig it. God Bless my man.
I own the silver mountain( blood moon) thats red version for those that do not know and I love it so much so that I just ordered the silver and black version as well! Schecter just makes great guitars and I agree they are just as good if not better then any $3000 plus guitar hand down all day long!
Hmmm i might be one of the few to have been disappointed by Schecters. I have had a Schecter C1-FR Hellraiser (Didn't like the neck or the tone) Schecter C-7 Blackjack (Had a SH-4 that sounded amazing but the neck was uncomfortable) Schecter C1 Stealth (Affordable guitar, played well but didn't sound great. Also felt very cheap) The only one that i am actually very impressed with is the 2022 Schecter Sun Valley Super Shredder Exotic. Sustains for days and feels very well constructed. Versatile tone and generally plays most styles well.
I dont have a Schechter yet however have considered getting one for my collection and this one is definately one that is a keeper! Thanks for the expert opinion Phil! Cheers!
Thanks Phil. I've a Strat Custom Deluxe, American Tele, and a Novo Serus J. What do you think that this guitar bring sonically that these others don't, aside from price? Great video. p.s. the bridge screw replacement is a genius and cheap solution.
Just getting back into playing after a 20-ish year hiatus. Loving my Omen 6 Extreme, especially the neck... so easy to play when compared to a few other guitars I tried out.
@Phillip McKnight Hey Phil!👋🎸 Once again thanks for "All the Guitar Goodness without the Hype"!👍 Your review just reaffirms why I am trying to replace the C1 Classic that brought so much joy🥰 from 2004 until 2018, when someone stole my car with the Schecter inside it at the time it was stolen. Neither were recovered!😥🤬 Have not been able to work since 2010 due to cardiac problems, so saving enough money after living expenses in Southern California ($$$$$😱) just hasn't happened yet. Hopefully soon!🤞🙏 Before I run out of time. A Comparable Schecter replacement for the C1 Classic Neck-through with the SD JB and 59 pickups, and Experiencing live, in person, a SpaceX Starship /Super heavy Launch and Landings, are at the Top of my Revised Bucket List of "Things I want to do Before I DIE,,,, AGAIN"!😬😉 I Appreciate the Hard Work and Effort you put into bringing us the Content that you provide! Thank you Very Much!👍🥰 I went to DeVry Institute in Phoenix in the early 80's I had SO much Fun in Phoenix and the surrounding areas.😏 So many Good memories!🥰 If I could handle the Heat🤔, I would move back! Mike in San Diego.🌞🎸🚀🖖
I played the Floyd Rose Sustaniac version in a shop a couple months ago, put it down, but couldn't stop thinking about it. I went back a week later to buy it and it was gone. I'm sure I can still order one online, which I may have to do; but was disappointed when I went to grab the one I played and it wasn't there anymore :(
Holy shit! I just learned something new about the use of a tone knob! Being a thrash metal player, I tend to leave it all the way up for an aggressive sound. Had no idea the tone knob could soften chirp sounds in picking. 😮😮😮
I own two of them (C-1 Platinum and C-1 Exotic) and I love them both. I also have Gibsons, Ibanezs, and a Fender. But for the money and quality, you can't beat Schecter in my opinion.
I've been so pleasantly surprised by almost every schecter I've picked up. I don't play 7 strings much but I picked a schecter 7 string up and it nearly sounded and played as good as the premium ibanez that was twice the price.
Stainless Frets should be the Standard nowadays.
They are just the best fret material. (EVO are nice as well)
I bought my first Shecter guitar back around 1977 when David Schecter still owned the company... Schecter was strictly a parts guitar company, back then. I bought all of the parts and built it myself , a Stratocaster copy... and a damn good one. I finished it in a walnut stain and tung oil, with a copper pickguard and copper plated hardware. It was a looker, for sure. I sold it back in the early 80's, to buy a Peavey Mace amp. I still miss that guitar and wish that I had kept it, the body, neck and parts were better than what Fender was offering from that era (and cheaper than a Fender).... At least I still have the Peavey Mace, so I guess that's a good thing.
Schecter back in the day offered tapped pickups which were really cool! Congrats on the Mace. I still use mine, super clean shape, from 1981. I have EVM12L’s in it now since the BW’s melted. Amp is a BEAST! 😊😊
Bought a Peavey Mace back in the 70's because Skynyrd used them. I wish I still had it. I sold it to get a SONY 4 track recorder.
Had no idea Schecter was that old, nice!
Just bought the Monster Bolts bridge screws, can’t wait to make my partscaster stop eating my hands thank you so much!!!
@@dennisneo1608 Sometimes I anchor my palm there but mostly noticed it from hard strumming near the bridge
I play metal and my hand almost lives on my bridge at times. Different musics require different techniques @@dennisneo1608
I have a Schecter PT Hellraiser Hybrid and it's easily one of the best built guitars I've ever used. It feels much more expensive than it was.
I just wish they had more solid colors finish options, otherwise I think schecter is the the best bang for your buck on an electric guitar. They come setup and feel great
Agree on the finish. The finish design feels like something I would have picked when I was in high school in like 2001, right before I went to the paintball store then went home and played Tony Hawk Pro Skater.
Schecter and Ibanez really are generous with specs on a lot of guitars, but both love making guitars that are ugly as sin.
@@guyincognito320 I disagree, they have different looks for different things. Of course, MOST of their guitars kinda lean into that 2007 emo/punk/metalcore era of style but they definitely do have that California sunburst or open grain look if you want something less eye-catching.
@@wingsoficarus1139 None of the trad looking guitars have steel frets or nice Floyds on them. Every guitar that has the desired specs also comes with the sponge paint jobs and funky inlays. Blackjacks are great, except they're black and glossy. I'm just not buying any guitars until all these maker start using steel frets, and probably not buying gloss guitars anymore either. The prices are out of control and the specs don't get better.
@@guyincognito320 I disagree, I have 4 Ibanez RGs, and I think they look cool af, and I also have a Schecter C-7, headstock is... interesting, but it looks pretty cool, too.
I like that finish. It's really pretty.
I agree. My Schecter C1-FR is my #1 in my collection and I have Gibson Les Pauls, Fenders, Kramers, Charvels, Gretsche and others. My Schecter has the sound, the weight is perfect, stays in tune for the whole gig, and the craftsmanship is equal to all others.
I agree that Schecter has a reputation as a metal guitar brand, but they have quite few non-metal models that I really wish people would give more publicity too. The Nick Johnston strat is the only one I see that gets much attention, but they have other really cool looking non-metal stuff. I'd love it if you could ask them to send you some for review! They have some acoustics (including a 7 string), the PT Special tele looks awesome for only $700 (along with other tele variants), hollow and semihollows that I'm interested in but never see, the Ultra III is wild looking. Plus their various LP's and 80's style stuff.
I agree 100%. Their lp's are insane too! But I really want the semi hollow body with the piezo on it. Such a versatile guitar!
I got a Schecter omen 6 and I love it and I love the Gothic inlay once stop playing it I have a hard time stop playing it the only thing I probably will change is the strings I love D’Addario
Bought a Schecter Gryphon for $300 in 2004. it remains my favorite electric. It's got some upgrades and has "worn in" well, but it was great out the box.
Me too!!! My 2004 Gryphon from GC is still awesome!
I got the Schecter C-1 in a Sweetwater exclusive finish called Aquaburrst. It is just gorgeous. It has a real Floyd, the SD Full Shred in the bridge and the Sustaniac in the neck. Ebony board, Grover machines and the jumbo frets. I paid over $1200 with tax and will put it up against any high end guitar from any company. I found the perfect strings. The D'Addario NYXL 9-42 (I think. Maybe 46?) they sound and play sooo good. The action is super low and no fret buzz. Anyways, it's a gem and because of it's exclusive finish I have been offered more than I paid. No way I am getting rid of that thing. This guitar you're showing us today is a real beauty too. That finish is siiick!
It would be worth an extra $15-25 for that bridge to be done by the manufacturers
It should be done by the manufacturers in the first place. That bridge would be dangerous to play the way it was.
Yes it’s humiliating for them to have their guitar fixed by parts from another manufacturer.
What a great tip on the shorter screws for bridges! Thanks!
24:56 a relative of mine says the same thing about my “shredder guitars”. I own three different Schecters: C-1 SLS FR Elite in Black Fade Burst, Hellraiser C-1 FR in Trans Black Flame, and CR-6 in Red Burst. All are amazing.
I recently got my first schecter after a few years of playing high end stuff (aristides, suhr). Got a banshee mach 7 and it's a fantastic guitar i'm really pleased with it!
I hate hearing chirp. Once you hear it you can’t unhear it. Great to hear it talked about
You just need to dig in and start your note with a nice squeeky harmonic. Covers that chirp right up and adds a a nice Italian icepick in the ear; so no one will forget the f# passing tone you threw in there. 😬
100% agreed
Jimmy Page's playing on Led Zeppelin II is riddled with chirping. I've hated that sound ever since
,
I have never played a Schecter I did not like and personally I feel they are one of the best values on the market for a guitar. Great Demo and I will have to say that I agree that the bridge pickup needs to be a bit warmer it is extremely bright for a humbucker; however, it does sound the bees knees in a clean voicing.
I absolutely love my Silver/Black Silver Mountain. Love the way it feels. Stays in tune and just rips! Did not have to touch my bridge at all. Set up was also spot on.
A fender scale C1 for some. The Gibson scale 2003 regular Silver C1, best guitar they ever made.
It amazes me that guitars at over a thousand dollars and no case or even a decent bag .
Phil's wife locks her sock drawer every time a new guitar shows up at the front door.
😂
I bought some Monster Bolts replacement screws for the bridge saddles in my modded 2009 lefty Squier Affinity Strat about two months ago and it was the best cheap modification I've made so far.
Love the addition of the cheese grater test. I'm a always-resting-my-hand-on-the-bridge kinda guy, so comfort on the bridge is super important to me. I got highwood saddles for my strat, but the big one, for me, is I always swap out TOM bridges for roller bridges. SO much more comfy for the palm mutes. Am I the only one who does that? I'm surprised it's not something I hear more, because for me it makes such a difference...
I have the Schecter C-1 E/A and the build quality is amazing. Super comfortable to play and the Piezo sounds great. The Diamond Plus Humbuckers are a bit dark to me and I will probably change them out soon. Another guitar I just got that has amazing quality for the price is my Vola Vasti V3 MC. It is superb Japanese craftsmanship for under 1k.
The biggest downside to schecter is their website. Absolutely terrible
I teach some lessons and do occasional tech work out of a Guitar Center, and I can grab any guitar off the wall for my lessons. I find myself defaulting to Schecters because they seem to be one of the only companies that actually sets up their guitars and basses decently from the factory (at least the $500+ ones). I wish I liked more of their designs, because I'd definitely buy one if it looked how I wanted. After seeing that clip of A7X with a headless guitar, I've got hopes for a headless 7 string from Schecter in the future. Great content as always! (I learned a lot of the tech skills I use at work from your videos)
Super-fantastic video, thanks so much! I've largely been a PRS player for decades now, and there have been very few guitars from other makers that have 'spoken' to me. That said, the one other brand of electric which has always felt and sounded really good to me is Schecter. I've really liked literally every single Schecter guitar I've ever played, from the very moment I picked it up. Weirdly, though, I've never owned one. You've just made me realise that it's about time I did own a Schecter, so I plan to pick up this model as soon as possible. And I was thinking I'll likely tune it to D-standard. I also like your idea of swapping out at least the bridge pup. I think we as guitarists should do our best to support the work of makers who produce well-made, consistent instruments at decent prices. Brilliant, cheers!
I have the 8 string version. Got it stratch and dent for cheap. Love it! Can play as good as any other guitar and better
I love it 🤘🏽🤘🏽 Reminds me of Type O Negative!!! That finish is amazing. It sounds great too !!
I think Kenney Hickey does have a signature model. I dont recall if it is a Schecter.
Great timing, Phil! I just bought a Schecter Reaper Elite and was having the same issues with that bridge. Grabbed myself some of those Fender screws from Monster Bolts!
I had a Schecter Avenger Diamond series from the 90’s that guitar had real mother of pearl binding around the guitar and headstock, loaded with Duncan Design PU’s, schaller tuners, bone nut, string through design. It was an awesome guitar to play and it had a varied tonal range. It did favour overdrive to get the sustain and gain at the optimum for my ears. Regrettably I sold it a number of years ago after having it for 20 odd years. Schecter build awesome instruments and value for money for sure.
I have a C1 Helraiser Hybrid FRS. Its amazing. Trans black, which actually looks dark green, over quilt with carbon fiber binding, body neck and headstock! Sustaniac and an EMG, Floyd Rose, Grover tuners. Its beautiful. I got it at a yardsale for less than 300 bucks and it cleaned up like a brand new guitar. Best deal ever!
I got a Schecter Sun Valley Super Shredder. I love it.
Man, I don’t know how many Schecter review videos I’ve seen, but I never hear anyone being disappointed. It doesn’t matter if it’s something like one of their traditional-ish PT “Teles”, their LP style Solo models, or one of their many shredder guitars. The quality and price combo is really hard to beat. My Nick Johnston HSS “Strat” is no exception. It’s everything a classic Strat should be, but with so much more. It’s the only Schecter I’ve ever had, so I don’t think I qualify as a fan-boy. Maybe if I ever get the PT Special I’ve always wanted, it’ll be official.
I have by sheer accident a Schecter Solo 6 Classic.
Wanted a semi-hollow but a steal of a second-hand deal got me interested.
Due to the slightly unusual shape, not very many people are interested.
But it is my best playing guitar.
This is the best deep dive video you've done Phil, the small tips and explanations provided are top notch. keep it up!
legit this went way deeper than I ever could hope
My mind was blown when he bought new screws for the bridge 🤯 Such a brilliant piece of practical advice.
Monster bolts is AWESOME! I've used them for at least 6-7 of my guitars. They ship internationally, too, so that's a big plus!
I got a Jack Fowler in white. Absolute beast. I put a ceramic magnet in the bridge pickup, a Pasadena Plus, it works really well
I have a Schecter Sun Valley “Super Shredder” tele (seafoam green) with sustaniac. The way it came set up really blew me away. Great neck, super super smooth.
I use my vol & tone knobs on all my guitars because I rely more on my sound from my guitar and amp than I do with pedals.
All I need from my amp is a bluesy break up, reverb and vibrato. The rest is up to my fingers and my guitar.
Perhaps it is because I can not use my feet due to paralysis to turn on/off pedals or other?. I dunno!?! No matter, I’m happy to have learned to get the most from what is in my hands.
I've played several Schecters for the past 15 years and they just get it right and are really incredible guitars!
I have 6 Schecters ! No regrets . No better guitar for the money !
I bought a schecter silver mountain in the classic silver finish with the floyd rose and sustainiac over a year ago, it's my favorite guitar and it looks so good! It plays like a dream.
The issue with Schecter to me is they once were a top-notch quality brand. Then they became synonymous with aggressive pointy guitars in typical colors for a certain genre and a certain way of playing, so they become a no-go for anyone that was not into that kind of music. The Nick Johnson models were an exception, but I still tend to click away when I see or hear the name Schecter for I'm not into 'their' genre.
Ive had quite a few mid to upper grade Shecters and have never been disappointed. Very good stuff IMO.
Love it when a good looking guitar is also well made. Style *and* substance.
Hey Phil just wanted to comment and say you’re the coolest cat around town!! Keep it up! Thanks for all you do!
I got a blue schecter C1 platinum last year, my favorite I’ve played
Got my first Schecter about a month ago. Had the Hellraiser with the Sustainic on back order for months and months. The thing is amazing. I own American Strats, and a Gibson LP, and my first take away with the Schecter was, so this is what a premium guitar feels like. The fretwork, the floyd rose, everything was perfect out of the box. If what I got was standard Schecter quality for $1300, Fender MIM or MIA have no business costing more than $800, that makes me think the Fender brand name is worth $500 a pop. The one downside the the Hellraiser is the weight, but with all the electronics and floyd rose, that comes with the territory.
I bought a new C1 Diamon Series XXX edition in college around 2007, and that guitar played great the whole time i had it! Very stable, and I could keep pretty low action with little to no audible buzzing. I finally traded it to a kid because I felt the stripper inlays were a bit cringy and having a teenage daughter... It didn't seem appropriate, lol. But great guitar!
1,677.78 in Canada. So Not a Cheap guitar.
A while ago you bought up The Alvarez guitar with the Graphite neck an how you were a fan of that neck . I was lucky enough to get one of the necks an had stainless frets put on it an it is the most articulate guitar I own by a country mile
Phil... Wonder if you agree or disagree with my current thinking about jazz guitar amplification: I am a one-man-dog playing along with .WAV files into a PA system.
I am moving away from my stereo Fender CyberTwin SE to a PodGo wireless stereo effects pedal, because it supports cabinet IRs, much more variety of amps than the Fender amp, and is infinitely lighter to move. However, I still have occasional jamming needs for a portable guitar amp. So, believe it or not, I have a stereo Roland Street Cube EX, with 2 x 8" speakers + tweeters. It is literally a compact PA system.
I am considering upgrading the speakers for 8" FRFR speakers used in luxury marine boats. Why? 4 ohms and designed from scratch for FRFR. This would make the cube amp closer to an FRFR system. I would tweek the EQ from the PodGo.
Is this improper thinking? A dead end or a flexible future? Thanks...
I don't own a Schecter guitar, but I have two B-stock 4-string Schecter basses: Stiletto Extreme (made in Indonesia) and Model T Session (made in South Korea). Both are outstanding in every way, including sound. In fact, I like the sound of the Model T Session almost more than my more expensive American basses. You just can't go wrong with Schecter.
I've got a 2005 Schecter C1 Classic with the Seymour Duncan JB / Jazz combination and it's an absolutely amazing guitar. A true neck-thru construction with phenomenal playability and really just an all around high quality, top-notch instrument. The craftsmanship on these guitars was nothing short of superb.
The necks on these are 3 pc Mahogany with carbon fiber reinforcement rods .
Ive got the C-7 Multiscale version in same finish. Specs are the same though for the build side. The neck should be rock solid. Mind stays in tune perfectly. I couldnt ask for a more stable axe.
It feels amazing, has weight but not so much you dread wearing it. Finish is amazing, love mine.
Bought my first Schecter 3 years ago just to check it out (just didn't know much about them nor tried one) .... now have 5. I play them more than my 2 Suhr's and custom built Warmoth. They just make great playing guitars at really great prices. Don't like the sound when you get it ... just upgrade the electronics to your choosing and you will still likely be far cheaper than most "other" brands after the mod. Love all 5 but my favorites out of them are the PT Pro (stock pickups), Sun Valley Super Shredder Exotic (installed a JB in bridge and 59 in neck and added coil splitting) and the Nick Johnston (installed a Thornbucker and Little 59 in neck and a Custom Stack in the middle with coil splitting). Can't recommend them enough.
I wanted to buy a 7 string Apocalypse Red with FR and Sustainer for few years, but when I got an opportunity, their guitars went up in price in Europe. So instead of EUR 1.2k they are 1.8-2k. And unfortunately, I just can't justify spending money on them, when I can get at least 2 great guitars for that price...
I own a Schecter Diamond series C-1 platnium with active EMG 81 and 85. It's a hard tail through the body and its a beast...I got it in Satin Blue with quilted top and it's plays phenomenally. It has locking tuners also...
You can't go wrong with a Schecter ! That guitar is cool !!!
Hi Phil, another great deep dive, I love when you analyse in detail the intricacies of a guitar in relation to the setup & player technique. By the way, stunning looking guitar. Only downer for me was when you changed to the Engl amp, you lost me with the bridge pickup, I found it extremely muddy indeed, only to be cleaned up by coil split. Not sure if it was an amp setting or the pickup itself? Tc, Cheers ✌️🎸
I've got the red one in a 7 string multiscale version. My absolute favorite guitar ever. I havent even played any of my other guitars since I got it last November. Schecter makes quality guitars. If anyone reading this is on the fence about getting one...jump in with both feet...you wont regret it.
Had a Hellraiser single cut as a teenager, and had a slightly upgraded hellraiser with a Floyd in college. Moved away from them for a bit, tried a Kiesel, a strandberg, an Ibanez for my 7 string needs and ultimately landed on a Mach-7 Banshee from them that is better than all of those other guitars. Strandberg is the only one I felt really rivals it. The others were great, but hang for buck that Mach 7 is in a league of its own hands down
You might want to try adjusting the pickup heights to the low strings raising ended up a tad and dropping the pickup High strings believe me 1/32 of an inch can make a huge difference just the slightest variable can bring up the brilliance with the low strings and the high strings
Schecter.. My favourite guitar brand for sure. Like many here have already stated I have just loved every Schecter i've ever picked up.. Awesome quality and fit and finish and also just that special magic that can be hard to find in many guitars (and ive owned many of the big boys).. Im also not a metal guy by any means either
I have one of these in the blood moon color. Schecter has some of the best bang for buck you can get. The Schecter USA pick ups on this guitar are really good.
I'd just use my dremel and file the top of the screws a bit. Done!
As a lefty metal guitarist I've always played Schecter guitars. I've always loved them, however I recently got an Ormsby Hype GTR 7 Run 16, and it's genuinely so much better to me. It's like it was made for my hands and body.
More rock / metal guitars should be like this, rounded in all ways. Generally super nice
I have a C-1+ that I bought in 2001that I put a Seymour Duncan JB in the bridge and a Dimarzio Humbucker From Hell in the neck. It is a great combo. The Dimarzio is the most underrated pickup ever. It is probably the most versatile guitar that I own. BTW they were doing USA QA / setups even back then. Everyone who has played it has wanted to buy it but they haven’t wanted to pay what it would take for me to part with it.😂
Until earlier this year I never thought I’d be a Schecter guy - Ibanez, PRS, MusicMan ‘til I die…
I was so wrong. I now have a Nick Johnston HSS and an Aaron Marshall AM-6. They’re simply extraordinary. Beautiful to play, beautiful to look at. So I’m now a Schecter guy.
Evening everyone .
I know it's a matter of taste, but the sound of that coil split is absolutely sick, crunch with tone and note value, that thing as is, it's a beast.
Beautiful guitar! The Graph tech black tusq, hipshot, and stainless steel frets have me really considering this one.. However, I have small hands short fingers. Is the thin C okay fer this, or should I look into ultra thin do you think?
Mahogany say no more, many guitar players like to discuss tone woods and many don’t believe it makes any difference.
I hear it every time I pick up a mahogany guitar unless it’s so cheap you know it’s coming wrong from the git go. I recently bought a Grote LP style p90 guitar off Amazon. $179.00 list.
I new two things. Beautiful to look at and made of mahogany. Neck thru.
So I automatically new the electronics were junk and most likely the tuners.
Surprise the tuners are fine. But it needs two new p90’s and pots etc.
so for another $100 bucks
I got a nearly $300 dollar guitar that works for me.
Just wanted to share, I know not everyone likes working on guitars or knows how that’s fine. But I dig it. God Bless my man.
"knew" not new,. Three things, 1, beautiful, 2, mahogany, 3, neck through.
That clean guitar sounds so open and resonant man! Some guitars just feel like they're alive ... Hard to put it in words!
I own the silver mountain( blood moon) thats red version for those that do not know and I love it so much so that I just ordered the silver and black version as well! Schecter just makes great guitars and I agree they are just as good if not better then any $3000 plus guitar hand down all day long!
JB pick up is the way to go !!
You didn't mention the neck radius! ( I'm guessing 14-16"?)
Nice guitar.
This guitar seems really nice and i own a couple of Korean schecters and haven't been disappointed with quality yet just wish the neck wasn't painted
Hmmm i might be one of the few to have been disappointed by Schecters.
I have had a Schecter C1-FR Hellraiser (Didn't like the neck or the tone)
Schecter C-7 Blackjack (Had a SH-4 that sounded amazing but the neck was uncomfortable)
Schecter C1 Stealth (Affordable guitar, played well but didn't sound great. Also felt very cheap)
The only one that i am actually very impressed with is the 2022 Schecter Sun Valley Super Shredder Exotic. Sustains for days and feels very well constructed. Versatile tone and generally plays most styles well.
I dont have a Schechter yet however have considered getting one for my collection and this one is definately one that is a keeper! Thanks for the expert opinion Phil! Cheers!
Thanks Phil. I've a Strat Custom Deluxe, American Tele, and a Novo Serus J. What do you think that this guitar bring sonically that these others don't, aside from price? Great video. p.s. the bridge screw replacement is a genius and cheap solution.
Beautiful axe! Love my Schecter Hellraiser! Yes, excellent quality for the price!
Just getting back into playing after a 20-ish year hiatus. Loving my Omen 6 Extreme, especially the neck... so easy to play when compared to a few other guitars I tried out.
I have a Schecter C1 Silver Mountain. It is an amazing guitar. A perfect high quality guitar.
@Phillip McKnight
Hey Phil!👋🎸
Once again thanks for "All the Guitar Goodness without the Hype"!👍
Your review just reaffirms why I am trying to replace the C1 Classic that brought so much joy🥰 from 2004 until 2018, when someone stole my car with the Schecter inside it at the time it was stolen. Neither were recovered!😥🤬
Have not been able to work since 2010 due to cardiac problems, so saving enough money after living expenses in Southern California ($$$$$😱) just hasn't happened yet.
Hopefully soon!🤞🙏
Before I run out of time.
A Comparable Schecter replacement for the C1 Classic Neck-through with the SD JB and 59 pickups, and Experiencing live, in person, a SpaceX Starship /Super heavy Launch and Landings, are at the Top of my Revised Bucket List of "Things I want to do Before I DIE,,,, AGAIN"!😬😉
I Appreciate the Hard Work and Effort you put into bringing us the Content that you provide!
Thank you Very Much!👍🥰
I went to DeVry Institute in Phoenix in the early 80's
I had SO much Fun in Phoenix and the surrounding areas.😏
So many Good memories!🥰
If I could handle the Heat🤔, I would move back!
Mike in San Diego.🌞🎸🚀🖖
Schecter are getting expensive in Sweden (well everythings expensive) this guitar is around 1800$ or € for this model
For twelve-fiddy, they should come with at least a gig bag and real carbon fiber.
I played the Floyd Rose Sustaniac version in a shop a couple months ago, put it down, but couldn't stop thinking about it. I went back a week later to buy it and it was gone. I'm sure I can still order one online, which I may have to do; but was disappointed when I went to grab the one I played and it wasn't there anymore :(
Holy shit! I just learned something new about the use of a tone knob! Being a thrash metal player, I tend to leave it all the way up for an aggressive sound. Had no idea the tone knob could soften chirp sounds in picking. 😮😮😮
I own two of them (C-1 Platinum and C-1 Exotic) and I love them both. I also have Gibsons, Ibanezs, and a Fender. But for the money and quality, you can't beat Schecter in my opinion.
That finish is gorgeous.
Totally agree with everything you said Schecter’s just feel like quality instruments
That thing looks sick as hell too 😂
My Schecter C1 Elite SLS FRS is the best guitar I've owned to date: my 1984 Kramer Pacer (RIP) is/was #2.
That's the thing about Schecter guitars. They ALWAYS "feel" like expensive guitars no matter the price
Phil which would you personally buy? Schecter or Charvel?
Thanks for your service, I have a Diamond Cali Jazz that’s loaded with EMGs, you can pry it from my cold dead hands if you want it lol. Thanks Phil
Beautiful guitar. Good video buddy 👍👏💯🎸🎸
I've been so pleasantly surprised by almost every schecter I've picked up. I don't play 7 strings much but I picked a schecter 7 string up and it nearly sounded and played as good as the premium ibanez that was twice the price.