[Jeff]

So it all began in late 2004 with the purchase of a 2004 model RG1527CB. I received it for Christmas, and while it was a decent guitar, I wasn't overly thrilled with the neck and the bridge, and certainly not the pickups. So, I sold it, and ordered this:



It was a fine playing guitar, however there was an odd ringing with it on high gain tones, and I foolishly returned it instead of trying to get to the bottom of things. I blame Carvin's short 7 day period.

Next, I decided to give in to familiarity, and purchased a 2005 RG1527, this one having the 5-piece neck. Again, pickups needed to go, but it was a decent guitar.




I also briefly owned an Agile Septor as well as an RG7421.

But things were not well. I began to doubt my "right" to own a 7-string, and decided to part with sevens forever. You see, I felt that one needs to be a shredder to fully utilize all 7 strings, therefore I didn't "deserve" one. So I was done.

But like a wayward son (cue Kansas CD) I have returned, and will not make the mistake to leave again. I decided to take the red pill and see the world for what it truly is.








And with my other baby:



First impressions: Smack me like the bitch that I am, but I actually dig the stock pickups so far. Certainly better than any stock Ibanez pickup that I was used to.

Playability is Out. Of. This. Fucking. World. I have never, ever played a 7 that plays this good for me.

Fit and finish are astounding. frets are wonderful, and there's no scratching or finish flaws.

Unfortunately due to nasty 10 degree weather I am forced to take pictures inside, and the flash washes out the detail of the top. But trust me, it's beautiful.

I highly, highly recommend Carvin, and I already have the gears turning for #2. Which sadly won't be for a long time, but one can dream!

[poisonelvis]

awesome dude,it's nice to see one find a guitar yer' so happy with,congrats!!!!i have yet to play a carvin,hope at namm this jan.

[Shawn]

Nice Carvin. I like those 1527s but i'd rather much have a 7620 than one of those. I think the Carvins are alot nicer though and I want one still to this day. Nice JSX too. Great pics!

[HighGain510]

Very nice Jeff! I agree... it seems like they are doing something different with the new Carvins... I had a black one that was a few years old but my new one plays SIGNIFICANTLY better than that other one! All they need to do now is make the pickup routes standard-sized and I'll be buying a 2nd one next year... might buy one next year anyways, but that's besides the point! Looks gorgeous... red is a tough color to photo especially on figured maple tops but bet it looks amazing in person!

[djpharoah]

Im getting gas for a carvin now with all you guys posting these up. Any way for them to install pickups or have their pickup route a bit bigger for after market ones?

[Edroz]

very nice! i can see hints of the awesomness of that maple top, can't wait to see some outside pics of it.

[7 Strings of Hate]

beautiful carvin, red is my favorite color and this thing is a beauty. the small pup cavities wouldnt mean much to me considering i would be cutting into it anyway to put in emg's

[The Dark Wolf]

Jeff - cool guitars, and happy for you.

But I think you're reading too much in to this... I dunno, "deeper meaning" or whatever, about guitars. "Right" to play 7's? Red pill?

I'm sure you're speaking somewhat in hyperbole but on the other hand, you were willing to stop playing something you apparently love, because of this mindset. They're just tools.

[Apophis]

Great Carvin , I love the look, the shape and everything

[darren]

It's a shame you sent back that mahogany 727. That thing was pretty sweet.