IbanezDaemon
Raptus regaliter
It's not often I buy new guitars but I did say I was G.A.S.ing for one of these. This is one of the new SM-1 models that usually are HSS (Humbucker with 2 mini Buckers actually) that are the Stagemaster reissues but with this single Humbucker version this one would be the reissue of the late 80's Stagemaster Mach-II.
Great guitar for the price and available in 3 different finishes. I opted for the Shockwave Purple one as it's the most 80's looking finish of the three. Not the greatest shade of Purple I have ever seen, wish they had gone with a more Purple Neon/Chameleon finish ala the mighty RG550-PN. This thing plays super well straight out of the box. Set up with a real low action and I'm betting the retailer I bought this from didn't have a tech setting them up either. I didn't have to adjust a single thing. The humbucker is a Seymour Duncan JB which you have the option of Series or Parallel on via the push pull pot. Floyd is a 1000 model...next best thing in the range to the original and I've never had a problem with them. Guitar is surprisingly light being an all mahogany body and neck. Ebony board and MOP effect Kramer 'Claw' inlays.
I'll probably swap that JB out for something with a lot more oomph like an X2N or a Warpig. Build quality is good, no frets that need attention. Only defect is the Kramer inlay at the 12th fret shows some discoloration yet still passed QC. I'm sure the shop didn't check it that much either but I have contacted them about it.
Def recommend the SM-1 series. For better tonal options go with the older ones. The best Shredders that Gibson make!

Great guitar for the price and available in 3 different finishes. I opted for the Shockwave Purple one as it's the most 80's looking finish of the three. Not the greatest shade of Purple I have ever seen, wish they had gone with a more Purple Neon/Chameleon finish ala the mighty RG550-PN. This thing plays super well straight out of the box. Set up with a real low action and I'm betting the retailer I bought this from didn't have a tech setting them up either. I didn't have to adjust a single thing. The humbucker is a Seymour Duncan JB which you have the option of Series or Parallel on via the push pull pot. Floyd is a 1000 model...next best thing in the range to the original and I've never had a problem with them. Guitar is surprisingly light being an all mahogany body and neck. Ebony board and MOP effect Kramer 'Claw' inlays.
I'll probably swap that JB out for something with a lot more oomph like an X2N or a Warpig. Build quality is good, no frets that need attention. Only defect is the Kramer inlay at the 12th fret shows some discoloration yet still passed QC. I'm sure the shop didn't check it that much either but I have contacted them about it.
Def recommend the SM-1 series. For better tonal options go with the older ones. The best Shredders that Gibson make!






