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Sound:
The stock pickups sound great! I have really grown since getting this guitar due to the different tonal qualities I can get from its different pickup selector positions.
A lot depends on your amp sound, but I can hear every nuance and articulation of every note on this guitar with the sounds I use.
I almost gave it a 9 instead of a 10 because the single coils are kinda noisy if you use a lot of gain... but then again, they're single coils; when isn't that the case?
Of course you can always upgrade if you want something specific, but these stock pickups do the trick!
Feature:
The floating tremolo system is actually my #1 favorite out of the 10 floating-trem guitars that currently I own, and is also one of the best I've ever used. It is extremely responsive, and it has enough bounce in it to get a nice flutter, something I've struggled with on some of my other LFR-trem guitars.
I like the HSS pickup configuration on this guitar, as it gives me lots of tonal options. I can play clean and atmospheric, clearly-articulated bluesy parts, crushing metal riffs, and shred up a storm on the comfortable neck.
24 frets is always a winner with me too; the neck is ultra-comfortable all the way up.
As for accessories, I bought mine used, so none came with it. Until I got this guitar I had strictly been a neck-thru contruction guy, but this is one of the most comfortable guitars I have ever played, ranking above some of my $1,000-range guitars in some ways.
Ease of Use:
As I said above, the 5-way selector switch and HSS pickup configuration provide the potential for quite a bit of tonal variety. It is great for lead guitar, especially.
Quality:
This guitar measures up to my $1000-range guitars, and even surpasses them in some ways in comfort and playability. For $299 you get much more guitar.
This guitar is my first ESP/LTD and has made me really consider just going with ESP/LTD from now on.
Value:
Again, this is a whole lotta guitar for $299. I got a used/blemished one and ever since, now I'm looking at LTD's for my next purchases based on this great guitar.
Manufacturer Support:
ESP did it right the first time, so I haven't needed to contact them.
The Wow Factor:
Not intentionally, I came to own nothing but strat-shaped guitars with 24 frets and floating trems, so this one called to me the moment I saw it in the store, more for features than for looks.
The see-thru black looks pretty cool; more interesting than just flat black. I've never been a fan of the look of maple necks, but I went with it anyway, and my tone is thanking me. And the price was great. So it's growing on me.
Overall:
I'd buy another one for sure! A great all-around guitar for a wide range of styles, for a reasonable price.
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Sound:
Definitely want to get some new pickups of your choice in this guitar if you want to get a great sound out of it. The stock pickups are fair if you're just going to practice in your room.
Feature:
I love the locking tremolo, it's the reason I bought this guitar. The frets are a bit awkward, but you get used to it.
Ease of Use:
It's ruff around the edges of the neck. I've heard it's normal on most inexpensive guitars, but this was the first time I've noticed since playing guitar.
Quality:
It looks nice and plays well for the price. I love Jackson guitars much more, but this guitar isn't the worst I've ever had.
Value:
You could do worst, but I wouldn't buy another one if something happened to this one. If you can afford something better I'd advice you go for a wiser investment.
Manufacturer Support:
Never needed support.
The Wow Factor:
In another review I read someone stated that this is a beginner's guitar with a locking tremolo. I happen to agree. Though to be fair the guitar is good looking.
Overall:
Overall, this guitar is great for those that want to spend some time customizing it in the future or those that are seeking a low priced locking tremolo guitar. Other than that I'm sure if you read more reviews you'll find better options.
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