I got one of these about two weeks ago and am generally pleased so far. Fit and finish are better than one would expect for sub $350 instrument. Pickups are overwound At 13.5K ohms for the bridge; a little dark sounding for my taste but appropriate for hi-gain music styles this guitar is likely to be used for. Tuners are decent and the bone nut is cut properly. Neck profile is a little on the chunky side, binding and inlays are well executed too. I suspect the fretboard is a synthetic material; it didn't really seem to absorb the oil/stain I applied. Length of the ball end frets vary somewhat And four of the frets were slightly high. I reseated one and used a fret file to lightly dress the four until my fret rocked showed them level. I'm a little surprised the frets were not bigger/taller since shred/metal focused instruments these days typically have pretty big frets. I needed to back off the truss rod to get enough neck relief with a 10-42 string set. Intonation was spot on on my example and, after leveling the frets, I managed to get the action pretty darn low. Other than the setup, strings and a set of strap-lock buttons this thing is now ready to rock !
Max you are the best reviewer and you totally shred awesome riffs & noodles, but in this video I especially like the part where you showed the placement of the output jack and then showed the balance of the strap buttons. I like it so much when guitar designers take those sorts of things into consideration!
I love how it almost looks exactly like the Destroyer I've had for the past 35 years. I love seeing this design to come back. I'd have more of them if I didn't want to just look like the life-long Def Leppard fan that I am! Awesome review. You play beautifully.
At this point, it's a very generic shape. You'll see them on Ibanez, Schecter, etc. Still looks really cool I'm glad to hear it's a decent guitar. I'm seriously thinking about buying one.
Mine came in the mail today, and honestly I was impressed. It was absolutely playable out of the box, but the neck was set a little too straight for my liking so I adjusted the truss rod just a smidge. The tuning machines are actually quite nice for cheap things, and the biggest surprise was just how useable the pickups were. I originally intended to swap them out for colored ones, but I enjoy the sound enough where I don't think I will. I didn't have the quality issues some brought up like uneven frets or anything. I LOVE the neck profile, and the finish is a lot nicer in person. The one possible nitpick I've found so far is that in the little destroyer-esq notch in the body, there's a noticeable binding seam. Not a gap or anything, but you can feel a "dent" in the clear coat where the seams clearly aren't the same exact height. A very nice alternative (regardless of price point) to a good and proper Gibson Explorer, which I was never a huge fan of mine when I owned one as it was a little dull/warm/dead sounding.
Wow insane couldn't imagine having these guitars back in the 80's for the price! as always a great honest review👍 would love for you to check out that V looks awesome🙏well done Sir Thx! 🤘⛓⚔☠
Don’t read that the wrong way! I grew up with a guy like him. Phenomenal guitarist, and willing to jam with you , and give you pointers, show you an easier way to do this or that, etc. No ego! Just s humble friend, who was seriously interested in helping you out! Side note! He ended up going to Berkeley, and still plays in local bands, and teaches a total guitar system! Rock, metal, jazz, country, etc. he’s still the nicest person I ever met, and the best guitarist I’ve ever seen!
Max, as always thank you! I’ve had one of these in GREEN for about 6 months now. Mine REQUIRED a full, professional setup out of the box that included a fret level. That said, after the setup I am very very happy with it, and it is just as good as my Epiphones, Deans and Charvel. It’s very surprising! Thanks again for such a killer review, and putting us on to them having more models out now!!
Great video as always Max. I'd really be interested in you getting your hands on an IYV IS-400 HH. They look like their guitars might be pretty good. Rock On!!
I have both this guitar and the V you mentioned. I bought the Revenge and upgraded everything and it's a monster. In both the Revenge and the V style guitar I put a set of Seymour Duncan Distortion Mayhems. Both guitars are excellent with the main difference being the V just feels like it wants to be thrown around and abused more.
@@JustinNoOriginBand I received mine, it's flawless. I thought I'd need to make some changes but I really can't find any reason to do so except maybe a bridge pu. It stays in tune great! I know with these imports ican be a gamble because they can tend to be inconsistent, but I definitely scored a good one. These things have just gotta scare the bigger manufacturers that sell the same guitars for $999.00 +. Thanks for the reply, enjoy yours!
@@Chosenfew_0129 out of the box the Revenge was more playable but I needed to shield the pickup and control cavities properly to eliminate all the interference. The V needed more setup but I intended to completely overhaul them both anyways. If nothing else I would swap at least the bridge pickups and locking tuners on the Revenge really made it quite nice.
Damn, these videos are becoming addictive! Subscribed! Neat guitar, looking a bit Harley Benton with the "step" on the back edge, but it certainly looks like a decent axe. Perfect for your first Blues jam session 🙂
Great guitar and great review! When ordering a V or Explorer style guitar, always get a case. Whether soft or hard case, they are always difficult to find later. Love the channel 😁.
Guitar Max is the Patron Saint of Quality Inexpensive guitars!!! Always an advocate for the working budget minded musicians!!!!! 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗👍👍👍👍👍😀😀😀😀 Enjoy watching his channel!!!! 😀😀😀👍👍👍 Max is an awesome dude!!!! Seriously thinking 🤔 about purchasing this guitar!!!!! Wanted to buy an Explorer shaped guitar without paying a shit load of $money!!!! I was considering buying a Jackson Kelly or an 1980s Ibanez Destroyer but too expensive for my budget!!!!
I have a white one. Only one problem..the bridge is put on backwards from the factory. It is a wider Nashville style bridge. I turned it around so the screws face the tail and it will intonate perfectly. I usually play strats and teles..but I found this one very comfortable to hold and play. That one quick and easy tweak, and it is dead on nice. Very pleased with it.
I really ike the way you play, Max. I am beating myself up for not snatching this guitar up fast enough. But thanks for yet another great tip. Your reviews always give enough info to make a decision. I appreciate it a lot. I'll be ready for the next one.
I'm stoked, I passed on the last round before they sold out completely, but I just nabbed one when they came back in stock today. It can't get here soon enough.
Gorgeous guitar for so little money! Stick some double cream Super Distortions and some matching rings that sucker would be beautiful! Would go good with the cream binding
Fesley is a good, cheap brand. Had some issues with mine (rough back of the neck and gritty frets), but nothing that a little sandpaper, polish, and elbow grease couldn't fix. Not the greatest feeling guitar, but for $130, it's hard to beat. Censtar is another brand I've heard good things about, and they offer a number of styles.
This looks a lot like the purple Schecter E - 1 special edition you've got, Max. Definitely has a different sound though and there might be a slight difference in price as well, lol. I agree, it does look like it has a nice fit and finish. It could be a great mod platform for ppl who like that Explorer style body and it's far more affordable than what you'd have to spend on a Gibson.
Bought one! $199 on Amazon, I like it, probably replace the tuners some were a little hard to tune in. Cool color and the back is ocean blue, to me the sound is in the high side, perfect for power chords.
With big name brands jacking up prices and having quality control issues, this is a GREAT market for up and coming manufacturers to offer great quality at affordable reasonable prices. Guitar looks and sounds amazing!
Fun fact, I've known Mike Batio from way back in the Holland days. Joey Cetner produced my brother's band. Mike's is a real piece of work as a human, but the writing and playing on Holland's "Little Monsters" is legendary.
I bought a red one at the beginning of the year and it blew me away! I always wanted an Ibanez destroyer, but by the time I could afford one, they stopped selling them. I definitely want to get one of their new V guitars! Also, check out some of the IYV guitars. They're also very good!
@@ernestalcala4369 yea I saw that. It was like $130. Not bad at all, but you can get a JS-11 Dinky with bigger frets for like $160 and they're basically identical in looks.
Nice review, max 😎🤘🏻🎸 I’m a huge fan of explorer styled guitars and I have been curious about this one. And I can see that this guitars closely resemble an Ibanez destroyer. Other than that, this guitar sounds awesome for the price. I’m thinking about buying this guitar.
I got the Green one about a month now and LOVE IT!!! That being said, When I got it, I changed out the crappy strings it came with. Also had to drop the action, raise the pickups, and set the intonation. I did change out the knobs that came with it and added strap locks. I may change out the tuning machines at some point, but they are not that bad really. Pickups are pretty beefy! It's Great for High Gain Metal! Honestly have no idea what it sounds like on a clean channel. Great Axe for the price but just be ready to give it a set up or take it to a shop when it arrives. This has become my 2nd favorite guitar in my collection.
Man, if only they had an all black one or the red one they list as unavailable. Looks purple to me but oddly enough, they list the color as "Pink Lizard" (and "Green Lizard" for the green one).
I purchased one of these recently, and it came with too many problems to ignore! Uneven frets, bowed neck and the tuners were sticky and hard to turn. I made some adjustments, and it still wouldn't stay in tune with a broken in set of Ernie Balls. I decided to send it back and I'm buying an S by Solar.
Awesome video! I'd like to see you check out some of the M Musi guitars they have features that you usually only get on $2000 guitars for less than $400.👍👏
Awesome review as always. Zero gimmicks. Just easy listening honesty. As far as future reviews, I'd like to toss into the hat. Samick Guitars - Greg Bennett design Rockwell (Explorer style body). I'm pretty sure these can only be found 'used'. I've heard that 'other' guitar companies have used Samick guitars. Any knowledge of these 'rumors' being true?
I could definitely work with that. My first guitar which I still love is an old sonnex 180 deluxe. I learned on that neck profile, and the gloss finish. I miss playing that guitar since I retired it. It needs serious work to get back into playable shape. The way you describe this neck reminds me of that guitar, and for the price, it's not a bad thing to try.
I love these Westcreek guitars I own a couple of their models and love them. Other than a step up and new strings the ones I have were great right out of the box after buying.
Yo Max! I kept checking in on this sold out guitar. And I got it in green. They say it's in new condition. I wanted it, so I went for it. Of course I'm worried about where this one came from and why, but I trust Amazon's policies about describing the guitar's condition truthfully. I'm full on in the purchase, so again, thanks for the review. I guess I wanted it bad enough because yo! It's mine! Thanks.
I was eyeing this guitar for a couple weeks now. Planned on buying it tomorrow when my credit statement came in. There were 15 in stock for the longest time. Then I saw this video. Checked Amazon before bed, only 10 left in stock. Woke up and checked again, only 4 left. Needless to say, I wasn't waiting until tomorrow so I just ordered one. Lol With a $20 coupon and $60 in credit card points, I spent less than $200 out of pocket. Probably gonna swap the pickups simply because I have a pink set of Seymour Duncan's that have been lying around unused for the past year or so.
YES!!!! Please do an episode on the Flying V!! I’m dying to see a review on it because I’ve always wanted a V but I’m afraid to pull the trigger on a more expensive one because I’m not sure if I would like the body style and feel. I’m torn between the V and the Revenge, both are cool!
I've been seeing these pop up every now and then, not going to lie the Revenge looks like it's right up my alley being mainly an Explorer guy myself. Might have to spend some extra pennies on one eventually and see if can hang with my LTD EX Black Metal and Schecter E-7 Apocalypse, good review!
it is listed as $239 with a $20 coupon as of 9/18/2023 at 9 pm on the amazon link you have posted. That makes it $219. Killer deal. Thanks for the heads up. I still love my Firefly 335 copy you brought to my attention like 3 years ago for $140 with a really good cord and picks. I sold my 1976 Gibson 335 TD because the Firefly was actually just as good in my opinion. Not as heavy but just as good.
The next guitar on my one day list is the Grote LPS003 I especially want it in that awesome green I already have the Grote 335 with the trapeze tale in the beautiful purple with the red pick guard I can’t wait to see that West Creek flying V in action when you get it
I'll preface this by saying I like mine a lot (have the green one.) That being said, a couple of things you may or may not run into: The frets - Yes they have nice ends on them. However, on mine I needed to "run the grits" on them because they were really gritty when doing vibrato. I used a set of fret erasers for this (cheap set also found on amazon,) and it cleaned them up pretty nicely. The inlays - mine are sticking out above the board (basically all of them.) They are still smooth, it's not like there were sharp inlay edges or anything. This hasn't caused me any issues as far as play-ability, and at this price point, I can't really whine about it. The volume knobs - I have heard mixed things on this. Some people experience this and some don't. On mine, the volume knobs are basically an "on/off" switch, and they don't actually roll the volume down in any way. I will likely change them out myself, which is not particularly hard if you know how to solder. Honestly though, for what they're charging, it's not a big deal. If you're experienced and still buying cheap guitars to mess with, you probably already have to tools to make this thing great. And if you're a beginner, the cost of this guitar + a setup is still going to put you in a better place than most budget guitars. They look really great too. I have some Jackson Kellys that don't look this good and cost me a lot more.
2 Questions, and thanks for the post Max. 1) What is the radius of this guitar? All of my shredder guitars are 9.5" or lower, but for chords-I have found that 12'' or 16" Radius are easier to play. 2) Can you research any Bass Models of any of these guitar manufacturers? I have a student who needs a P-Bass or possibly a J-Bass. Thanks again, Man.
This model is the closest thing to owning a Schecter E-1 for those on a budget. That's what this one reminds me of. It would be nice if a few more other colors were available like Honeyburst and Vintage Sunburst - but I can understand why.
That is exactly why I clicked on the thumbnail. I have been searching for the E-1 with sustainiac at a price I can afford ever since Max did that review. They have always fallen through my fingers (budget).
@@hotchow8766 I'm in the same position right now. I had a hustle that was guaranteed to get me this guitar here or something close but the gas tank always go empty so I always have to put most of it towards that. Priorities first, leisures last.
Firefly came out with one that was red like my Destroyer FFLX a while back. I got it and set it up and put in EMG H4 pickups and all new electronics . Haven't seen the all red ones since.
I am so happy that I have grown out of the "omg, I need to buy that guitar" phase or I would have bought a few just to mod out. The boxes of EMG's, Seymour Duncans, Epiphone humbuckers, nuts, tuners, hardware, pots, jacks.. I would have created a monster. But if it's a full Mahogany body with just a veneer, with a set neck and finished frets, I couldn't even build one for that price.
Few things. If someone doesn’t like the tone, it seems worthy of a pup swap. If someone doesn’t like the gloss neck, tape the neck on the binding, heel and at the headstock. Run some 220 grit sandpaper on the neck and just check the finish for the feel that you want after a couple passes.
Hey guitar hero just wanted to say looking sharp,I'm getting that guitar next,it gets killer reviews,I have Ben waiting for you to do this one first,ur the man I trust the most I no u no ur shit and ty for all u had to do to be the best,ur welcome
I ordered one of these months ago and jeez, man, it's such an incredible guitar. One of my favorites I own
I’m looking to buy one at the moment but I feel like it’s too good of a deal to be true but overall would ylu recommend?
Just received the green one.
I got one of these about two weeks ago and am generally pleased so far. Fit and finish are better than one would expect for sub $350 instrument. Pickups are overwound At 13.5K ohms for the bridge; a little dark sounding for my taste but appropriate for hi-gain music styles this guitar is likely to be used for. Tuners are decent and the bone nut is cut properly. Neck profile is a little on the chunky side, binding and inlays are well executed too. I suspect the fretboard is a synthetic material; it didn't really seem to absorb the oil/stain I applied. Length of the ball end frets vary somewhat And four of the frets were slightly high. I reseated one and used a fret file to lightly dress the four until my fret rocked showed them level. I'm a little surprised the frets were not bigger/taller since shred/metal focused instruments these days typically have pretty big frets. I needed to back off the truss rod to get enough neck relief with a 10-42 string set. Intonation was spot on on my example and, after leveling the frets, I managed to get the action pretty darn low. Other than the setup, strings and a set of strap-lock buttons this thing is now ready to rock !
Max you are the best reviewer and you totally shred awesome riffs & noodles, but in this video I especially like the part where you showed the placement of the output jack and then showed the balance of the strap buttons. I like it so much when guitar designers take those sorts of things into consideration!
I love how it almost looks exactly like the Destroyer I've had for the past 35 years. I love seeing this design to come back. I'd have more of them if I didn't want to just look like the life-long Def Leppard fan that I am!
Awesome review. You play beautifully.
Adrian Smith played it before and better than Phil Collen. 😝😂
At this point, it's a very generic shape. You'll see them on Ibanez, Schecter, etc. Still looks really cool I'm glad to hear it's a decent guitar. I'm seriously thinking about buying one.
@@bitburg40 i love them both 🤩🤘🏼
Ive been following Max for a while. Always seems like a cool guy. He really does try his hardest to give a very honest review of the guitars
an absolute beauty of a guitar right there. Reminds me a lot of the Firefly FFLX in purple they had last year.
That's actually the one I bought.
@@nychold
Are you happy with your purchase?
Mine came in the mail today, and honestly I was impressed. It was absolutely playable out of the box, but the neck was set a little too straight for my liking so I adjusted the truss rod just a smidge. The tuning machines are actually quite nice for cheap things, and the biggest surprise was just how useable the pickups were. I originally intended to swap them out for colored ones, but I enjoy the sound enough where I don't think I will. I didn't have the quality issues some brought up like uneven frets or anything. I LOVE the neck profile, and the finish is a lot nicer in person. The one possible nitpick I've found so far is that in the little destroyer-esq notch in the body, there's a noticeable binding seam. Not a gap or anything, but you can feel a "dent" in the clear coat where the seams clearly aren't the same exact height. A very nice alternative (regardless of price point) to a good and proper Gibson Explorer, which I was never a huge fan of mine when I owned one as it was a little dull/warm/dead sounding.
Wow insane couldn't imagine having these guitars back in the 80's for the price! as always a great honest review👍 would love for you to check out that V looks awesome🙏well done Sir Thx! 🤘⛓⚔☠
Awesome as always!!! I love that color. The value is amazing…
i truly believe if you knew this guy in person and asked he would just give you a guitar if you couldn't afford one
he 🤔 may always be indoors...
You may have to wash his windows first... 🎉
And , if you asked nice enough, maybe he’d give a few free lessons as well.
Don’t read that the wrong way! I grew up with a guy like him. Phenomenal guitarist, and willing to jam with you , and give you pointers, show you an easier way to do this or that, etc. No ego! Just s humble friend, who was seriously interested in helping you out! Side note! He ended up going to Berkeley, and still plays in local bands, and teaches a total guitar system! Rock, metal, jazz, country, etc. he’s still the nicest person I ever met, and the best guitarist I’ve ever seen!
@@syndicatedsatellite7288I’d wash more than just his windows 😈.
FYI I mean his guitars
Would be interested in seeing you showcase the Cerberus V from West Creek as well! Love the vid!
Id dig a V like this quality.
Aside from a bit different shape, it's the same guitar, so everything Max said in this vid, applies.
MAB! 😊Good to see fit & finish showing up on affordable guitars. Would be nice if the lower end guitars of the big two had excellent fit & finish.
Max, as always thank you! I’ve had one of these in GREEN for about 6 months now. Mine REQUIRED a full, professional setup out of the box that included a fret level.
That said, after the setup I am very very happy with it, and it is just as good as my Epiphones, Deans and Charvel.
It’s very surprising!
Thanks again for such a killer review, and putting us on to them having more models out now!!
yeah that green really shines❤
Thanks for the neck dive test. Probably the single most frustrating thing about odd bodies.
Yes, the WestCreek Cerberus V Heavy Metal Guitar in Stardust Blue is also intriguing.
Great video as always Max. I'd really be interested in you getting your hands on an IYV IS-400 HH. They look like their guitars might be pretty good. Rock On!!
I have both this guitar and the V you mentioned. I bought the Revenge and upgraded everything and it's a monster. In both the Revenge and the V style guitar I put a set of Seymour Duncan Distortion Mayhems. Both guitars are excellent with the main difference being the V just feels like it wants to be thrown around and abused more.
Did you upgrade the bridge ? If so, what did you use?
@sjs793 yeah, I put Guyker Tune-o-matic bridges in both.
@@JustinNoOriginBand I received mine, it's flawless. I thought I'd need to make some changes but I really can't find any reason to do so except maybe a bridge pu. It stays in tune great! I know with these imports ican be a gamble because they can tend to be inconsistent, but I definitely scored a good one. These things have just gotta scare the bigger manufacturers that sell the same guitars for $999.00 +. Thanks for the reply, enjoy yours!
Which one is better out of the box this one or the flying v westcreek
@@Chosenfew_0129 out of the box the Revenge was more playable but I needed to shield the pickup and control cavities properly to eliminate all the interference. The V needed more setup but I intended to completely overhaul them both anyways. If nothing else I would swap at least the bridge pickups and locking tuners on the Revenge really made it quite nice.
You have to review the Flying V with the reverse headstock!
love it! love the V.. and the green headless too!! i would be very much interested in watching a review or demo of it too
Yeah Max , I just bought the Green Lizard . 3 left now at the mentioned $239.00 price on Amazon. Thanks all .
I have a 1981 Destroyer I got back in 83 still have it. I noticed that notch right away. Cool guitar Bro great video.
Wanna sell that destroyer?...lol...
Owow dude, really cool solo in the intro! The guitar looks very cool!
Damn, these videos are becoming addictive! Subscribed! Neat guitar, looking a bit Harley Benton with the "step" on the back edge, but it certainly looks like a decent axe. Perfect for your first Blues jam session 🙂
Great guitar and great review!
When ordering a V or Explorer style guitar, always get a case.
Whether soft or hard case, they are always difficult to find later.
Love the channel 😁.
Guitar Max is the Patron Saint of Quality Inexpensive guitars!!! Always an advocate for the working budget minded musicians!!!!! 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗👍👍👍👍👍😀😀😀😀 Enjoy watching his channel!!!! 😀😀😀👍👍👍 Max is an awesome dude!!!! Seriously thinking 🤔 about purchasing this guitar!!!!! Wanted to buy an Explorer shaped guitar without paying a shit load of $money!!!! I was considering buying a Jackson Kelly or an 1980s Ibanez Destroyer but too expensive for my budget!!!!
I have a white one. Only one problem..the bridge is put on backwards from the factory. It is a wider Nashville style bridge. I turned it around so the screws face the tail and it will intonate perfectly. I usually play strats and teles..but I found this one very comfortable to hold and play. That one quick and easy tweak, and it is dead on nice. Very pleased with it.
I really ike the way you play, Max. I am beating myself up for not snatching this guitar up fast enough. But thanks for yet another great tip. Your reviews always give enough info to make a decision. I appreciate it a lot. I'll be ready for the next one.
I'm stoked, I passed on the last round before they sold out completely, but I just nabbed one when they came back in stock today.
It can't get here soon enough.
I would love to see you review a Sandberg Forty Eight guitar. Would love to hear your thoughts on it.
Gorgeous guitar for so little money! Stick some double cream Super Distortions and some matching rings that sucker would be beautiful! Would go good with the cream binding
Blistering opening jam, Sir Maxingham!
Hey, Max. The thing I like about your channel is there's always another opportunity. Seriously... giant thanks for the windows you open!
Awesome guitar! Awesome review! (as always) and man, I wish I had half of your talent. BTW it's only $239 right now.
Fesley is a good, cheap brand. Had some issues with mine (rough back of the neck and gritty frets), but nothing that a little sandpaper, polish, and elbow grease couldn't fix. Not the greatest feeling guitar, but for $130, it's hard to beat.
Censtar is another brand I've heard good things about, and they offer a number of styles.
This looks a lot like the purple Schecter E - 1 special edition you've got, Max. Definitely has a different sound though and there might be a slight difference in price as well, lol. I agree, it does look like it has a nice fit and finish. It could be a great mod platform for ppl who like that Explorer style body and it's far more affordable than what you'd have to spend on a Gibson.
Bought one! $199 on Amazon, I like it, probably replace the tuners some were a little hard to tune in. Cool color and the back is ocean blue, to me the sound is in the high side, perfect for power chords.
With big name brands jacking up prices and having quality control issues, this is a GREAT market for up and coming manufacturers to offer great quality at affordable reasonable prices. Guitar looks and sounds amazing!
@thetattedbaldguy has some great videos to check out! Love what you're doing here max
Fun fact, I've known Mike Batio from way back in the Holland days. Joey Cetner produced my brother's band. Mike's is a real piece of work as a human, but the writing and playing on Holland's "Little Monsters" is legendary.
I really want to see the Westcreek Helios. I've been eyeing the silverburst.
Awesome! I need this axe! Great video Max!,
Please review the Westcreek Cerberus V. Im on the fence of getting this one or the V..thx in advance!!
I bought the green burst and put dimarzios in it,and its badass. Love it.
I bought a red one at the beginning of the year and it blew me away! I always wanted an Ibanez destroyer, but by the time I could afford one, they stopped selling them. I definitely want to get one of their new V guitars!
Also, check out some of the IYV guitars. They're also very good!
Iyv had a dinky copy on amazon that quickly sold out before i could grab one
@@ernestalcala4369 yea I saw that. It was like $130. Not bad at all, but you can get a JS-11 Dinky with bigger frets for like $160 and they're basically identical in looks.
I would love to see a review of the flying V.
YES! Check out the West Creek V!
Nice review, max 😎🤘🏻🎸 I’m a huge fan of explorer styled guitars and I have been curious about this one. And I can see that this guitars closely resemble an Ibanez destroyer. Other than that, this guitar sounds awesome for the price. I’m thinking about buying this guitar.
Great video! Enjoyed this one. Beautiful guitar!
Great review! It looks like a good Schecter E1 and Ibanez Destroyer alternative.
I got the Green one about a month now and LOVE IT!!! That being said, When I got it, I changed out the crappy strings it came with. Also had to drop the action, raise the pickups, and set the intonation. I did change out the knobs that came with it and added strap locks. I may change out the tuning machines at some point, but they are not that bad really. Pickups are pretty beefy! It's Great for High Gain Metal! Honestly have no idea what it sounds like on a clean channel.
Great Axe for the price but just be ready to give it a set up or take it to a shop when it arrives. This has become my 2nd favorite guitar in my collection.
Cool guitar. I had a Destroyer in the late eighties. Wish I still had it. How ‘bout you review their flying V
Man, if only they had an all black one or the red one they list as unavailable. Looks purple to me but oddly enough, they list the color as "Pink Lizard" (and "Green Lizard" for the green one).
10:11 never had issues with hand drag, WA state player, maybe its the weather here but I rarely meet guys with that issue
I have it in green..Love this guitar!
i bought the green one a couple months ago...love it
I purchased one of these recently, and it came with too many problems to ignore! Uneven frets, bowed neck and the tuners were sticky and hard to turn. I made some adjustments, and it still wouldn't stay in tune with a broken in set of Ernie Balls. I decided to send it back and I'm buying an S by Solar.
Awesome video! I'd like to see you check out some of the M Musi guitars they have features that you usually only get on $2000 guitars for less than $400.👍👏
12:30... Ibanez Ironlabel Xiphos 6-string version .. any of the models with a tremolo !!!
Awesome review as always. Zero gimmicks. Just easy listening honesty. As far as future reviews, I'd like to toss into the hat. Samick Guitars - Greg Bennett design Rockwell (Explorer style body).
I'm pretty sure these can only be found 'used'. I've heard that 'other' guitar companies have used Samick guitars. Any knowledge of these 'rumors' being true?
I could definitely work with that. My first guitar which I still love is an old sonnex 180 deluxe. I learned on that neck profile, and the gloss finish. I miss playing that guitar since I retired it. It needs serious work to get back into playable shape. The way you describe this neck reminds me of that guitar, and for the price, it's not a bad thing to try.
*Thanks Max.*
Nice shirt, Max! I'll be seeing him on Saturday! 🤟
Most Explorer players I know place the strap over the upper rear bout keeping the axe tight to the body. Try it when standing.
I love these Westcreek guitars I own a couple of their models and love them. Other than a step up and new strings the ones I have were great right out of the box after buying.
Yo Max! I kept checking in on this sold out guitar. And I got it in green. They say it's in new condition. I wanted it, so I went for it. Of course I'm worried about where this one came from and why, but I trust Amazon's policies about describing the guitar's condition truthfully. I'm full on in the purchase, so again, thanks for the review. I guess I wanted it bad enough because yo! It's mine! Thanks.
Yes on checking out the Flying V.
I might give this guitar a try sometime, looks beautiful.
I was eyeing this guitar for a couple weeks now. Planned on buying it tomorrow when my credit statement came in. There were 15 in stock for the longest time. Then I saw this video. Checked Amazon before bed, only 10 left in stock. Woke up and checked again, only 4 left. Needless to say, I wasn't waiting until tomorrow so I just ordered one. Lol With a $20 coupon and $60 in credit card points, I spent less than $200 out of pocket. Probably gonna swap the pickups simply because I have a pink set of Seymour Duncan's that have been lying around unused for the past year or so.
Either the west creek "racer" dc, or the v looks cool, I'd love to see reviews of those.
YES!!!! Please do an episode on the Flying V!! I’m dying to see a review on it because I’ve always wanted a V but I’m afraid to pull the trigger on a more expensive one because I’m not sure if I would like the body style and feel. I’m torn between the V and the Revenge, both are cool!
Wow that sounds really good and looks great. Nice playing and nice tone
I love that one and plan to get one
I've been seeing these pop up every now and then, not going to lie the Revenge looks like it's right up my alley being mainly an Explorer guy myself. Might have to spend some extra pennies on one eventually and see if can hang with my LTD EX Black Metal and Schecter E-7 Apocalypse, good review!
Smokin opening jam. Nice video.
I appreciate it!
it is listed as $239 with a $20 coupon as of 9/18/2023 at 9 pm on the amazon link you have posted. That makes it $219. Killer deal. Thanks for the heads up. I still love my Firefly 335 copy you brought to my attention like 3 years ago for $140 with a really good cord and picks. I sold my 1976 Gibson 335 TD because the Firefly was actually just as good in my opinion. Not as heavy but just as good.
Yes review the V from West creek!
I've been buying a few IYV"s here and there and they have so many incredible offerings it's tough to choose just one.
Killer opening riffs, man!!!
The next guitar on my one day list is the Grote LPS003 I especially want it in that awesome green I already have the Grote 335 with the trapeze tale in the beautiful purple with the red pick guard I can’t wait to see that West Creek flying V in action when you get it
I'll preface this by saying I like mine a lot (have the green one.) That being said, a couple of things you may or may not run into:
The frets - Yes they have nice ends on them. However, on mine I needed to "run the grits" on them because they were really gritty when doing vibrato. I used a set of fret erasers for this (cheap set also found on amazon,) and it cleaned them up pretty nicely.
The inlays - mine are sticking out above the board (basically all of them.) They are still smooth, it's not like there were sharp inlay edges or anything. This hasn't caused me any issues as far as play-ability, and at this price point, I can't really whine about it.
The volume knobs - I have heard mixed things on this. Some people experience this and some don't. On mine, the volume knobs are basically an "on/off" switch, and they don't actually roll the volume down in any way. I will likely change them out myself, which is not particularly hard if you know how to solder.
Honestly though, for what they're charging, it's not a big deal. If you're experienced and still buying cheap guitars to mess with, you probably already have to tools to make this thing great. And if you're a beginner, the cost of this guitar + a setup is still going to put you in a better place than most budget guitars.
They look really great too. I have some Jackson Kellys that don't look this good and cost me a lot more.
Just bought this on sale currently for $199. Come on, how do you beat that
2 Questions, and thanks for the post Max. 1) What is the radius of this guitar? All of my shredder guitars are 9.5" or lower, but for chords-I have found that 12'' or 16" Radius are easier to play. 2) Can you research any Bass Models of any of these guitar manufacturers? I have a student who needs a P-Bass or possibly a J-Bass. Thanks again, Man.
This model is the closest thing to owning a Schecter E-1 for those on a budget. That's what this one reminds me of. It would be nice if a few more other colors were available like Honeyburst and Vintage Sunburst - but I can understand why.
That is exactly why I clicked on the thumbnail. I have been searching for the E-1 with sustainiac at a price I can afford ever since Max did that review. They have always fallen through my fingers (budget).
@@hotchow8766 I'm in the same position right now. I had a hustle that was guaranteed to get me this guitar here or something close but the gas tank always go empty so I always have to put most of it towards that. Priorities first, leisures last.
There’s a red and green to
West Creek also has a beautiful flying-V in 3 colors $259
Yes, I was thinking of buying a West Creek V, but there is a notice from Amazon that says this V guitar has a "high return" rate.
Firefly came out with one that was red like my Destroyer FFLX a while back. I got it and set it up and put in EMG H4 pickups and all new electronics . Haven't seen the all red ones since.
I cant wait to see the review of the flying v .
Maximum Guitar! Awesome Max.
West Creek revenge guitar does sound very nice for the money
The guy looks like he tours with Steel Panther between the vids
Hell yeah ,review all of them, if there's a chance,they all sound as good as that one,rock 'n' roll won't be as expensive.
Currently unavailable on Amazon, this video must have enticed some sales \m/
It does sound lovely.
I like that westcreek cerberus blue glittery flying v..
I am so happy that I have grown out of the "omg, I need to buy that guitar" phase or I would have bought a few just to mod out. The boxes of EMG's, Seymour Duncans, Epiphone humbuckers, nuts, tuners, hardware, pots, jacks.. I would have created a monster. But if it's a full Mahogany body with just a veneer, with a set neck and finished frets, I couldn't even build one for that price.
Few things. If someone doesn’t like the tone, it seems worthy of a pup swap.
If someone doesn’t like the gloss neck, tape the neck on the binding, heel and at the headstock. Run some 220 grit sandpaper on the neck and just check the finish for the feel that you want after a couple passes.
Hey guitar hero just wanted to say looking sharp,I'm getting that guitar next,it gets killer reviews,I have Ben waiting for you to do this one first,ur the man I trust the most I no u no ur shit and ty for all u had to do to be the best,ur welcome
That looks very similar to your schecter max
Best solo I've heard from you, good job!
Wow, thanks!
Looks great and sounds great to me