This is our Schecter Guitars Review, including the very popular Schecter Hellraiser C 1.
During NAMM 1998, Schecter introduced the Diamond Series of Guitars. The six on show were affordable non-custom shop electric guitars that fit for purpose.
Since that day we have a vast range to pick from, you may find yourself getting lost not knowing which guitar is best for you.
I’m here to help you choose the correct Shecter guitar, depending on your personal preferences.
Let’s look at some essential information and the reviews of my top 7 picks.
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Best For Rock and Metal
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What Are Schecter Guitars?
Schecter Guitars has been building quality guitars for over three decades and has become a leading manufacturer of guitars in the USA.
In their early days, they built cheap copies of Fender Stratocasters. Still, since gaining notoriety among rock guitarists from artists such as Korn, Ozzy Osbourne, and Marilyn Manson, they now feature on the music scene with their own unique models.
Schecter guitars were first only available in the USA, but since 1995 they have been distributed worldwide.
Although they are perhaps most well known for customizing existing designs to create some impressive metal axes. Schecter also has its own range of models, which are hand-built at their factory in Southern California.
Some of the more popular Schecter models include the Damien Elite (based on the Jackson Soloist), C-1 Hellraiser (based on the Ibanez RG series), and Omen Extreme 6 FR (a Gibson Explorer copy).
The company is known for its high-quality, affordable guitars.
Our Top Pick
1- Schecter C 1 Hellraiser
- Emg Humbuckers Deliver “Slabs Of Metal Mayhem”
- Individual Volume Controls With Push-Pull Coil-Splitters, A Master Tone, And Individual Saddles For Perfect Intonation
- Increased Longevity Of Your Guitar With The Built-In String Through Design
- Extremely Versatile
- Best Bang For Buck Schecter
Suppose you’re looking for an incredible electric guitar that is both affordable and stunning to look at. In that case, the Schecter Hellraiser C 1 is a perfect place to start.
This unique guitar features EMG active pickups and beautiful details that set it apart from other guitars in its class. The Schecter Hellraiser C 1 is perfect for any musician who wants a high-quality instrument at a fantastic price with great tone and playability.
The Schecter C-1 Hellraiser is ideal if you’re looking for a guitar with an aggressive style and punishing tone.
This classic double-cut super-strat body with a carved top provides great looks and playability.
The shape is very similar to that of the Ibanez SZ series but predates them by quite a few years. However, it’s safe to say that Ibanez took inspiration from Schecter there, as other guitar companies (like DBZ / Diamond Guitars) continue to do.
The Hellraiser C-1 is the lower-end model of Schecter’s new Hellraiser series. Although not as high quality as other Hellraiser models, it still has good playability, quality hardware and sounds extremely good for its price range.
It comes available in various colors, including black, pearl white, and of course, black cherry (above).
The Hellraiser C-1 has a body of mahogany, a 3-piece mahogany neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The pickups are EMG 81/85s, some of the best pickups for metal music.
It’s also fitted with a Floyd Rose 1000 series bridge, which allows for extreme dive bombs and other crazy effects.
I am very impressed by the quality sounds produced by all three pickup combinations, particularly with EMG 81/89s.
I would certainly recommend it to anyone looking for a great guitar with a slimmer neck.
The Hellraiser C-1 combines the playability of a set neck with high-output pickups that slightly push towards a mahogany sound.
It’s a versatile instrument that can cover a variety of genres, and it’s comfortable to play even for extended periods.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, the Schecter Hellraiser C-1 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an outstanding guitar on a budget.
Almost the perfect guitar in my opinion.
Spec
Model Hellraiser C-1, Series C-1 Electric Guitar Type Solid Body Electric Guitar Finish Type Gloss Electric Guitar Body Style Double Cut Body Construction Set Neck Number of Frets 24 Body Material Mahogany Neck Material Mahogany Fingerboard Material Rosewood Bridge Type Fixed Nut Material Tusq Nut Width 1.65″ Number of Pickups 2 Pickup Configuration H-H Bridge Pickup EMG Pickups 81TW Neck Pickup EMG 89R Controls 2 x Hardware Color Black Chrome
2- Schecter C-6 Deluxe Electric Guitar
- Neck Has Been Styled For High Velocity Soloing
- Rosewood Fretboard With 24 Jumbo Frets On A 14″ Radius
- Schecter Electric Guitar Delivers Uncompromising Performance While Staying Budget Friendly
- High Output Active Pickups
- Handcrafted With Meticulous Attention To Detail
Introducing the C-6 Deluxe electric guitar from Schecter.
This fantastic instrument is perfect for any working musician who wants top-quality performance at an affordable price.
The contoured basswood body has a classic double-cutaway style. In addition, the maple neck has been shaped into an extra thin profile for high velocity soloing.
The rosewood fretboard has 24 ultra-jumbo frets on a 14″ radius, making string bending effortless.
The Schecter Deluxe C-6 electric guitar gives you everything you need for scorching lead playing and aggressive rhythm tones.
This ax delivers the goods with its pair of high output active Diamond Plus Humbuckers.
As a result, the Schecter C-6 Deluxe Electric Guitar is the perfect choice for discerning guitarists who demand the finest in quality and performance from a budget guitar.
This instrument is handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, from its gleaming hardware to its rich, resonant tone.
The body is mahogany, while the rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth playing surface. Rounding out the hardware is a set of Schecter tuners for smooth and precise tuning.
At the other end, the C-6 Deluxe is outfitted with a Tune-O-Matic bridge with a string-through-body design that will keep your tuning to a minimum.
Looking for a guitar that punches above its weight? The Schecter C-6 Deluxe is a perfect choice. This baby is made with all the features you need to take your playing to the next level.
With a mahogany body and rosewood fingerboard, this guitar sounds as good as it looks. And don’t forget about those killer Diamond Series pickups (the first entry-level guitar to have the Diamond Series name!)
Unleash your inner rockstar. So what are you waiting for? Order your C-6 Deluxe today!
Spec
Model C-6 Series C-6 Deluxe Electric Guitar Type Solid Body Electric Guitar Finish Type Gloss Electric Guitar Body Style Double Cut Body Construction Bolt On Orientation Right-Handed Number of Frets 24 Body Material Basswood Neck Material Maple Fingerboard Material Rosewood Bridge Type Fixed Nut Material Graphite Nut Width 1.65″ Number of Pickups 2 Pickup Configuration H-H Bridge Pickup Schecter Diamond Plus Neck Pickup Diamond Plus Controls Volume & Tone
3- Schecter Omen Extreme-6 Electric Guitar
- Extremely Comfortable To Play With Its U-Shaped Neck And 24 Jumbo Frets
- Ridiculously Good Sounding For The Price
- Extremely Versatile With A Wide Range Of Tones Available
- Diamond Plus Humbuckers Deliver All The Crunch And Sustain You Need
- Aesthetically Pleasing Neck
With its breathtaking good looks and high-octane tone, the Schecter Omen Extreme-6 is a guitar that’s built to thrill.
Whether you’re shredding on stage or just jamming in your room, this ax will give you the sound and performance you need to take your playing to the next level.
Packed with features, the Schecter Omen Extreme-6 electric guitar is perfect for any player who wants a fast and comfortable guitar that shreds. With its contoured mahogany body and carved maple top, this guitar looks as good as it sounds.
This ax was built for speed, with an extra thin U-shaped neck and 24 jumbo frets that will let you fly through solos like nobody.
Are you looking for an electric guitar that will give you a massive tone?
This hard-rock-approved guitar sports a pair of high output Diamond Plus humbuckers, which will deliver all the crunch and sustain you need. The simplified controls include master volume and tone controls and a 3-way pickup selector toggle switch.
And if stability and sustain are what you’re after, look no further than the adjustable tune-o-matic style bridge and string-thru-body designs business. And the abalone inlaid rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of elegance, making this guitar as beautiful as it is deadly.
This is a perfect place to start your Schecter collection, especially at a friendly price.
Spec
Model Omen Extreme-6 Series Omen Electric Guitar Type Solid Body Electric Guitar Finish Type Gloss Electric Guitar Body Style Double Cut Body Construction Bolt On Number of Frets 24 Top Material Maple Body Material Mahogany. Neck Material Maple Fingerboard Material Rosewood Bridge Type Fixed Nut Material Tusq Nut Width 1.65″ Number of Pickups 2 Pickup Configuration H-H Bridge Pickup Schecter Diamond Plus Neck Pickup Diamond Plus Controls 2 x Volume & Tone Hardware Color Black Chrome
4- Schecter Pt Special Electric Guitar (3-Tone Sunburst Pearl, Maple Fretboard)
- Customizable Sound To Match Your Style
- Beautiful Tele Design That Feels Very Comfortable
- Classic Look With Modern Functionality/Vintage Tones
- Lightweight And Professional Quality
- Powerful Pickups And Wide Range Of Versatility
The Schecter PT Special electric guitar is perfect for players who crave traditional style and comfort. With its swamp ash body, crème binding, and contoured back, this guitar looks and feels fantastic. And with its powerful pickups, you’ll be able to unleash your inner beast!
The Schecter PT Special is perfect for the player who wants a traditional-style guitar with a modern, comfortable design.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been playing for years, this guitar is sure to satisfy. With its comfortable body and great sound, the PT Special is perfect for any musician looking for an affordable but high-quality option in the mid-price range.
Looking for a unique electric guitar perfect for your versatile personal playing? This incredible instrument features a bolt-on thin “C” maple neck, topped with 22 X-Jumbo frets for outstanding comfort and playability.
You’ll also love the sweet sound of the Schecter Diamond V-90 in the neck position and the dynamic Diamond VT-1 Alnico bridge pickup. No matter what style of music you love to play, the PT Special is sure to deliver!
Schecter’s PT Special gives you all the versatility of a Telecaster in an affordable package. This guitar is perfect for any musician looking to add a slight twang to their sound with high-quality chrome hardware, Grover Vintage tuning machines, and a Vintage Ashtray bridge with Staggered Brass Saddles.
Series-Parallel push-pull tone controls let you customize your tone. At the same time, the sleek curves and vintage appointments give it that timeless look and feel.
A trendy option with Schecter players across the board. Definitely worth a look in the mid-range price range.
Spec
Model Number 665 Model PT Special Series PT Electric Guitar Type Solid Body Electric Guitar Color Sunburst Finish 3-Tone Sunburst Pearl Electric Guitar Body Style Telecaster Body Construction Bolt On Number of Frets 22 Body Material Ash Neck Material Maple Fingerboard Material Maple Bridge Type Fixed Nut Width 42mm Number of Pickups 2 Pickup Configuration H-H Bridge Pickup Schecter Diamond VT-1 Neck Pickup Schecter Diamond V-90 Controls Volume & Tone Hardware Color Nickel
5- Schecter Reaper-6 Electric Guitar
- Highly Customizable For Individual Needs
- Super Thin C Neck For Easy Playing
- Unique Range Of Colors Available
- Crafted Of High-Quality Woods For Unparalleled Tone
- Lightweight
This guitar is perfect for the musician who wants a unique and personalized instrument.
The Schecter Reaper-6 is one deadly guitar. Its swamp ash body and burl top have a killer look and sound.
The ultra-thin C neck makes it easy to play. But, at the same time, the Schecter Diamond Decimator pickups deliver a rich, full tone that will make your opponents tremble with fear.
If you’re looking for a guitar with a lot of attitude, the Schecter Reaper-6 is perfect for you. These guitars pack a lot of heat with plenty of clarity and bite when needed.
But they can also give you that classic Fender single-coil sound when tapped and run through a clean channel. So whatever your style, the Reaper-6 can deliver.
The Schecter Reaper-6 is the perfect electric guitar for anyone who wants an instrument with great tone, style, and durability.
These guitars are made with exceptional materials and craftsmanship, making them some of the best in the business. With various options to choose from, you can find the perfect Reaper-6 for your needs and playing style.
The Schecter Reaper-6 electric guitar is perfect for metalheads and other musicians alike. With its ash body, poplar burl top, reverse headstock, and ebony fretboard, this guitar is not only beautiful to look at but also sounds fantastic.
Whether you’re shredding on stage or playing at home, the Reaper-6 is sure to deliver a killer tone that will satisfy even the most discerning player.
Spec
Series Reaper Electric Guitar Type Solid Body Electric Guitar Finish Type Gloss Electric Guitar Body Style Double Cut Body Construction Set Neck Number of Frets 24 Top Material Poplar Body Material Ash Neck Material Maple Fingerboard Material Ebony Bridge Type Fixed Nut Material Tusq Nut Width 1.65″ Number of Pickups 2 Pickup Configuration H-H Bridge Pickup Schecter Diamond Decimator Neck Pickup Schecter Diamond Decimator Controls Volume & Tone
6- Schecter E-1 FR S Special Edition Electric Guitar
- Combination Of Beauty And Power
- Easy To Play Thanks To The Thin/ Flat Neck
- The Mahogany Body And Quilted Maple Top Compliment Each Other To Create A Unique Tone
- Fretboard Offers An Exclusive, Sleek, And Attractive Design
- Powerful Humbuckers For Cutting Through Any Mix
I’m a sucker for nice aesthetics, and Schecter’s E-1 Fr S Special Edition doesn’t disappoint.
It looks like a work of art with its mahogany body and quilted maple top. But it’s not just all looks – the neck is thin and easy to play, making it perfect for speedy solos.
Plus, the contoured neck joint makes accessing those high frets a breeze. Can’t wait to take this beauty on stage!
This beautiful instrument is made with a mahogany body and quilt maple top, creating a stunning combination of tone and style.
The neck is made from three pieces of mahogany, making it thin and playable for high-velocity solos. In addition, the contoured neck joint allows for easy access to the upper frets, letting you take your playing to new heights.
If looks could kill, this guitar would be a prime suspect. But, with its sleek and sexy curves, the E-1 FR S Special Edition is sure to turn heads – even in a room full of musicians.
Thanks to its two unique humbuckers, this ax also packs some severe heat. So whether you’re shredding on stage or just picking up for the first time, the E-1 FR S SE is sure to make your playing experience unforgettable.
It’s got a wicked bridge position Apocalypse-VI humbucker that delivers an absolutely massive tone – perfect for cutting through any mix.
The sustainiac driver in the neck position is also impressive; it produces lush Humbucker tones when the sustain switch is off and works as the driver when switched on.
The sustainiac driver creates an infinite feedback sustain of string vibrations by electromagnetic feedback, which is really cool.
All in all, this is a fantastic guitar, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an incredible electric experience.
Spec
Model Number 3071 Model E-1 FR S Special Edition Series E-1 Electric Guitar Type Solid Body Electric Guitar Color Purple Finish Type Gloss Electric Guitar Body Style Offset Body Construction Neck Thru Orientation Right-Handed Number of Frets 24 Top Material Maple Body Material Mahogany. Neck Material Mahogany Fingerboard Material Ebony Bridge Type Tremolo Nut Width 1.63″ Number of Pickups 2 Pickup Configuration H-H Bridge Pickup Schecter USA Apocalypse VI Neck Pickup Sustainiac Controls Volume & Tone
7- Schecter C-1 FR S Sls Elite Electric Guitar
- Tone That Is Rich And Saturated Making Your Playing Shine Through
- Sustainiac Neck Pickup Allows You To Seamlessly Move Between Chords, Melodies, And Power Chords With Ease
- Superior Build Quality
- Play With Endless Musical Possibilities
- High Powered Fishman Bridge Pickup For Resonant Sound
- Original Floyd Rose Tremolo
It’s not easy being elite. But it’s a little easier with the Schecter C-1 FR S SLS Elite electric guitar.
This top-of-the-line instrument is designed for experienced players who demand the best tone and performance.
With its Floyd Rose 1500 locking tremolo and Sustainiac neck pickup, the C-1 FR S SLS Elite gives you ample flexibility and sustain. No matter what style of music you play.
So if you’re looking to take your playing to the next level, there’s no better choice than the Schecter C-1 FR S SLS Elite electric guitar.
Schecter Guitars has outdone themselves with the C-1 FR S SLS Elite Electric Guitar. The neck-thru construction enables extra sustain. While the carbon fiber reinforcement rods give speed and stability.
The Sustainiac neck pickup and Fishman Fluence Humbucker provide versatile tonal options, making this guitar perfect for advanced guitarists.
With its smooth playability and range of tones, the C-1 FR S SLS Elite is sure to be a favorite among serious musicians.
You know that feeling you get when you plug in a guitar and just can’t put it down? You’re about to feel that all over again.
Equipped with a sustainiac pickup, this instrument allows you to create unique sounds and effects that will inspire your playing in new and exciting ways.
With its high-powered pickups and 3-way mode selector, the possibilities are endless.
So why wait? Pick up a Schecter Elite today and start creating music that you’ll love for years to come.
A genuinely remarkable piece of equipment.
Spec
Model C-1 FR S SLS Elite Series C-1 Electric Guitar Type Solid Body Electric Guitar Finish Type Gloss Electric Guitar Body Style Double Cut Body Construction Neck Thru Number of Frets 24 Top Material Maple Body Material Ash Neck Material Maple Fingerboard Material Ebony Bridge Type Tremolo Nut Width 1.63″ Number of Pickups 2 Pickup Configuration H-H Bridge Pickup Fishman Fluence Modern (Ceramic Magnet) Humbucker Neck Pickup Sustainiac Controls Volume & Tone
Questions Answered
What Is The Schecter Diamond Guitars Series?
The Diamond Series is Schecter’s most high-end line of guitars.
It is made up of models designed for professional musicians and serious amateurs.
The guitars in this series are built with the highest quality materials and undergo the most rigorous inspections.
What Makes Diamond Series Guitars Different?
One of the things that set the Diamond Series guitars apart from other Schecter models is high-end hardware and electronics.
The pickups, tuners, and bridges on these guitars are all made with the best materials available.
They also feature unique designs that give them a distinct look and sound.
What Types Of Guitars Are In The Diamond Series?
The Diamond Series features many electric and acoustic guitars. The electric guitars include the Omen, Damien, Hellraiser, and C-1.
Are Schecter Guitars Good?
Schecter Guitars are popular guitars that are known for their quality.
They are used by many professional musicians, and they offer a great sound at an affordable price.
Some of the reasons why Schecter Guitars are very well thought of include:
- They have a great sound that is perfect for any genre of music.
- They are made of high-quality materials that make them very durable.
- They can be found for an affordable price, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
- It is easy to get replacement parts for almost any Schecter Guitar.
- Schecters offer many different models of guitars.
Is Schecter Owned By Fender?
Schecter Guitars is a well-known and respected guitar company known for its high-quality instruments. But some guitarists may not know that Schecter is actually owned by Fender.
Fender acquired Schecter in 1998, and the two companies have been working together ever since.
Schecter guitar makers manufactures a range of guitars sold under the Fender name, and the two brands continue to build a strong reputation among guitarists.
So Why Is Schecter Such A Popular Choice For Guitarists?
One reason is that Schecter guitars are known for their high quality. They’re built to last, and they sound great. But it’s not just their durability and sound that guitarists find appealing.
Schecter guitars come with different features, such as high-end electronics and locking tremolo systems. These features help to give Schecter guitars a more unique feel than standard Fender models.
What Guitarists Use Schecter?
A few notable guitarists who use a Schecter Guitar are Dave Grohl, Jerry Cantrell, and John5.
Dave Grohl is the frontman and founder of the Foo Fighters and a former member of Nirvana. He has been playing Schecter Guitars since 2001 and endorses them. His signature model is the Dave Grohl SGR Standard.
Jerry Cantrell is the co-founder and lead guitarist of Alice in Chains. He has been playing Schecter Guitars since 2004 and endorses them. His signature model is the Jerry Cantrell Signature Series.
John5 is a heavy metal guitarist who has played with Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie, and Five Finger Death Punch.
He has been playing Schecter Guitars since 2007 and endorses them. His signature model is the John5 Signature Series.
Are Schecter Guitars Expensive?
Do Schecter Guitars have a reasonable price for the quality of the guitar? This is a question that many beginners ask themselves when trying to purchase their first electric guitar.
First of all, let’s try to understand why a Schecter Guitar might cost more than other guitars or guitars in its class.
Schecter is a brand that is known for its high-quality guitars. They are made with the best materials and craftsmanship.
Many professional guitarists use Schecter guitars because of their superior sound and durability.
If you’re looking for a quality guitar that will last you for years, then a Schecter Guitar is a good investment.
They are not cheap guitars, but also not expensive. You can find prices starting at $500 and going up to $4,000+.
