This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
After many unsuccessful tries I finally got a hold of one of these guitars. I have a Schecter C-7 Standard but was looking for the extended range of the 8 string. I tried probably 6 times to order one, but was always met with an "Order Cancelled", as BestBuy.com did not seem to update their website when the item was sold out. I spoke to Customer Service and was repeatedly told that they would get them in stock once their limited production run was completed.
I finally received mine and opened it up. My girlfriend plays the Violin and Viola and marveled at the flat black color. Ebony fingerboard, smooth and fast. The guitar resonates without an amp, nice deep, rich tone and good playability. I did not see too much of a problem with going from 6 to 7 to 8 strings. Strung with D'Addario strings, which I do not like. Just a personal preference, I prefer Ernie Ball strings. They seem to hold their brightness a little longer.
It is noticeably lighter than the C-7 Standard, but still sounds fuller, richer, and deeper either plugged in or not. The C-8 has Seymour Duncan active pickups, which are fine, but I like the sound of EMG's better. Played them on a few Ibanez 7 strings before: the bass strings just jump out at you more with the EMG's. As is my custom, the guitar has a neck thru body. I can NOT stand bolt on necks. It is a waste of time, especially in an instrument costing $900. The neck is more stable, and the sound is richer. Just a personal preference. Overall, I am quite happy with this guitar, just not so happy with the BestBuy website. Customer Support was quick, well informed, and very cordial. Don't waste your time with the cheaper 8 string guitars. Save up the cash and buy the good ones! Enjoy!
