2008 Charvel
So-Cal (USA)
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When Charvel guitars
again became available after the Fender buyout, I was thrilled at the thought of being
able to order a custom shop Charvel just as I wanted it. That excitement quickly wore off
in the months ahead as I learned more details. First was that the custom shop guitars were
indeed very pricey. Second was that the average wait time was between 9 months and a year.
Third was that in spite of the outrageous wait and high price, many people were receiving
their long awaited guitars to find that several details - although diligently documented -
were being missed. |
Then, Charvel announced
the Production Model series - standard rock guitars for under a grand. This got my
attention. After reading several hands on reviews from people who had purchased one, I
decided to see for myself what they were like. |
I purchased this So-Cal first, and it
quickly became one of my regular go-to guitars. First of all, I love these necks. Not
identical to my '82 San Dimas, but not too far off. They definitely do a good job of
capturing the Charvel "vibe" at a price point that won't break the bank. |
The stock DiMarzio pickups have been
replaced with a Duncan custom shop "RTM" model (Rattus Toneus Maximus) and a
Duncan '59 in the neck, but other than that she's bone stock just as she came from the
factory. |
Opinions vary, but I'll give you
mine. At under a grand, these are damn good guitars - period. Mine plays quite well, and
in over a year of almost daily playing it hasn't given me a bit of trouble. Anyone who
would like to have a real Charvel at a reasonable price would do well to at least try one
of these on for size. Let your own hands and ears be the judge. |
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