C-1 Blackjack ATX FR Review

Schecter's new ATX guitars are armed with a pair of the new Seymour Duncan Active Black Out humbuckers, delivering precise sustain, output and sonic clarity.

Features:	9.7
Sound:	9.7
Action:	9
Reliability:	9
Impression:	9.7
Overall rating:	9.4
Users rating:	8.9
Comments:	51

overall: 10

Featured review by: Hakael, on april 15, 2008

Price paid: $ 800

Purchased from: Goodtimes Music

Features: This is the new, S. Korean made, Blackjack ATX FR for 2008. It's a solid body electric (done in the same shape as their other C-1 models) with 24 jumbo frets, 3-pc Mahogany set-neck and ebony fretboard. The 25.5" scale set-neck features their "Ultra Access" joint, giving it the feel of a neck-through. The mahogany body houses a set of two Seymour Duncan Active Blackout humbucker pickups, vol/vol/tone/3-way switch controls, and an original Floyd Rose tremolo. All the hardware, including Grover machine heads, are done in Schecter's signature black chrome. My particular model is a glossy, aged white color with an aged 3-ply binding. A single "Active" lightning bolt symbol adorns the fretboard at the 12th fret. The $800USD (list $1149) was for only the guitar. // 10

Sound: This guitar whispers hard rock, and screams metal. I've been playing this with a Peavey VK100 Head (Hartke 4X12 cab), a Epiphone Valve Standard combo, and a Roland Microcube for variety and to see how the pickups react to different amps. The pickups are definitely the star of this guitar. 9-volt active Blackouts, these humbuckers have less noise (moved around near lights, computers, and other electronics), and put out more highs, lows, and output than other active pickups I've tried. The have a more organic tone than other actives and the harmonics almost jump out and slap you in the face. In conjunction with the mahogany body, you can get a nice, deep, rich chug for your rythmic lines to very clear and well sustained solos. The OFR maintains it's tuning very well, able to perform dive bombs or ear piercing squeals while returning true. Although I still like the tone/sound of the EMGs in my Hellraiser, the temptation to swap the EMGs with another set of Blackouts is becomeing strong. // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: The guitar hadn't been at the store for very long, so I was able to pretty much inspect it as it had come from the U.S. facility (all Schecters are sent to the U.S. for final quality check and setup). The guitar was setup near perfect with a neck that was almost too straight, causing a light buzzing on some of the strings. In what took no more than a couple minutes, I gave it just a hint of relief in the neck and buzzing disappeared. The action is the lowest of any guitar I've had, or even tried. The finish on the guitar was perfect, not a nick or scratch anywhere. The routing for the OFR was clean and even had this little patch of what looked like felt lining the routing. Very professional look and a nice finishing touch. The pickups were at the optimal height according to SD's specs, and the OFR was perfectly balanced and level with the body. All the controls operate smoothly without so much as a stutter in operation or sound. The Switch operates without so much as a pop, and moves fluidly, yet secure. When I got it, intonation was spot on, and other than giving the neck a hair of relief, there wasn't much else that needed to be done. // 10

Reliability & Durability: This is a solid, well built guitar that could easily hold it's own playing Live. I would have a backup, but only due to the fact that it has an OFR, so a string break could be showstopping without a backup (like any OFR could potentially be). The hardware is all top notch (Grovers, OFR) and none of it (strap buttons, tuning machines, controls) has a hint of wiggle or looseness. A can't comment on how well the finish can last as I haven't had it long enough to make that determination, but I would imagine that it would last quite some time, with proper care. // 10

Impression: I like to play a variety of genres, encompassing anything from blues, hardrock, to heavy/symphonic metal. This guitar falls easily and heavily into the hardrock and metal zones. I had done quite a bit of research regarding this guitar and had been eagerly awaiting it's release this year, so there wasn't really much to question when I finally was able to get one in my hands. I love the antique white finish, with a simple yet very classy look, and the binding compliments it quite nicely. The single inlay, I'm sure will be a love or hate thing, but I think it looks fine, and I'm really liking the simplicity (I don't get lost because there are still side fret markers). I'm not sure if they meant to outdo their Hellraiser line with this model, but they sure did (as well as many other guitars that could easily sell for twice the price of this one). I'd almost wish they had made it under a whole new line instead of placing it under their "Blackjack" line. If it were lost or stolen, I would definitely seek to replace it. My only worry is the OFR, as this is my first OFR and therefore my experience with using and maintaining these is pretty lacking. Being an Original FR though helps alleviate some of my worries. The only thing I wish it had was an included case. Because of the locking nut, the guitar is a little longer than it's non-FR version, making finding a generic case that fits well somewhat of a chore (or one could simply spring for the Schecter made case). I've compared it (obviously) to my Hellraiser, and having already been comfortable with the way the Hellraiser played, there was no real difference, except with the OFR, making this a very easy guitar to just pickup and play. I've compared it to many other manufacturers similar in price (too many to name) as I've since wanted to get something with a floating tremolo, and given the features, price, and familiarity of feel/style, there was no competition. Definitely a great addition to Schecter's line. // 10

Reviewed by: unregistered, on may 12, 2009

Price paid: $ 755

Purchased from: Guitar Center

Features: Tons of features: Mahogany body; 24 frets on a set neck with an ebony fretboard; active Seymour Duncan Blackout pickups that are truly awesome; original Floyd Rose trem. I think I like Ibanez's ZR trem system better than the original Floyd Rose, but I haven't owned one to be able speak to what it's like to Live with it. As for other stuff in the box, there's not much to speak of. There's no handbook with setup specs or anything like that. It comes with 4 allen keys, but I've only identified two different sizes of allen screws on the entire guitar so I'm not sure what the other two allen keys are for. It also comes with the lowest quality patch cable I've ever seen - I'm not sure why they even bothered including it. No case included, which sort of sucks, but given the price I can't blame them. // 10

Sound: Awesome sound. It squeals, it crunches, it sounds great clean. About the only thing it doesn't do well (at least in my opinion) is blues. I feel like there's too much sustain and a good blues note should die a little quicker. I might be crazy though and I'm used to my Strat. At any rate, it's not advertised as a blues guitar and sounds great at everything else. The Seymour Duncan Blackouts put EMGs to shame. // 10

Action, Fit & Finish: I really like this guitar, so I hate to do this, but I have to ding it in this category. They really shouldn't put the big American flag sticker on the back bragging about how it's set up in the US if they're going to do such a half-assed job on it. I really don't think they even tried. The trem sat at the wrong angle (although I suspect it might have actually been level if tuned a half step down from Standard tuning) and the bridge pickup had it's height totally different on the bass and treble side. I've read other reviews for Schecter guitars where people complained about the action from the factory being too high. Mine was also clearly too high. As for overall quality, it's way better than the Ibanez guitars I've looked at, but not great. The routing for the back cavity is not very well done and the covers don't sit quite level. The flat black finish with light yellow edging is really cool, but when you look closely at the edge of where the flat black and yellow meet up, it's not perfect and you can actually see slight jaggedness from the edge of the tape used to mask it during painting. There's a dust spec imperfection in the paint in one place. Also, the sanding where the neck and body match up isn't quite as smooth on the top side as it is around the rest of the border.

All that said, I'm still going to give it a 7 in this category because (despite some minor detail flaws) it still looks great and has TONS of features for the money. I paid $755 for this guitar and you'd be hard pressed to find a guitar for under $2, 000 that comes close on features. The setup issues are all things that one can fix in an afternoon of tinkering and you have to look really closely to see the flaws in the finish. Also, as mentioned above, I looked at a few Ibanez guitars recently and even the pricey Prestige series guitars had serious quality and fit and finish problems. // 7

Reliability & Durability: This is my first guitar with a Floyd Rose and I am curious to see how that holds up with time. I will say I have some doubts about that part (especially the string clamping surfaces). The flat black finish is also something I would be concerned about the longevity of. It'll probably show wear and scratches pretty easily. The rest of the hardware all seems good to last. // 8

Impression: Again, for the money, this is a killer guitar with tons of range, a great look, and great features. Yes, there are a few rough edges from a fit and finish perspective, but that's somewhat to be expected in a Korean made guitar at this price point. None of the flaws on mine are anything serious to kill the overall rating. // 9

overall: 9.4

Reviewed by: griffo89, on february 05, 2009

Price paid: A$ 1200

Purchased from: billy hyde bendigo

Features: This guitar was made in korea I believe but is set up and checked in
the U.S.A it features a set neck with 24 frets and Ultra access design it has a string thru body with a tonepros bridge it's also got grover tuners and a set of semour duncan blackouts. Pickup selection is through a 3 way Switch and has 3 knobs (vol/vol/tone) the body and neck are both mahogany with an ebony fretboard it also features a tusq saddle which is meant to increase harmonic sustain by about %16 over a bone saddle. It's aged white finnish looks realy cool too! // 9

Sound: I play mostly metal and hardcore styles of music and this guitar was made for it, the active pickups realy make a difference when playing bone crushing chugs and breakdowns and even when doing solo work it's cuts through and you get an amazing tone even when in the bridge pickup position. I'm using a Marshall AVT 150h with a 4X12 cab(not sure on brand but it has celestions) I was using a Boss metalzone distortion pedal with my old guitar but haven't found the need yet with this one it has plenty of bite without it. the guitar itself can make all types of music come alive like punk rock sounds such as Blink 182 and New Found Glory. Clean this guitar is quite good, the neck pick pickup makes for a really fat tone. it's not realy noisy at all but it will feedback if you sit right infront of ur amp with gain and volume right up. // 9

Action, Fit & Finish: The guitar was set up well the action suited me fine not too low but low enough pickups were fine. the finish on this guitar was flawless even though it was made in korea it looks amazing and if it wasn't printed behind the headstock you would'nt pick it at all. I would have liked a slightly fatter set of strings but that's not the manufacturers fault at all it's just personal preference. // 10

Reliability & Durability: It would definetly stand up to a live show, it looks as if it will last for years of playing without flaws but like anything if well looked after it will last I would'nt play it without a backup unless I had to but I think it would be reliable enough. the strap buttons are solid but I'll change them for strap locks once again not a big deal just personal preference. // 9

Impression: As I said I play mostly metal and whatnot but I branch out into other styles when I get bored but so far it's perfect for my prefered styles of playing. I've ben playing about 5 years now I also have an ltd viper 50 and this guitar destroys it in every way my favourite feature is definetly the pickups, for the price I paid you would'nt find a better guitar for the style of music I play. I compared this with a few other guitars like an Ibanez rg and ESP ltd h1000 deluxe but they just did'nt have the features this guitar had and were 2 or 3 hundred dollars more in the shops than this was. If someone stole it I would probably hunt down the people responsible and rip them a new one but failing that I would definetly buy another one of these no question. // 10

Comments

[JoelTheShredder]

this is by far going to be my next guitar. and was this 800 in english money or 800 in worthless america money.

[Hoodoo Child]

i think that america money =P i just searched for it and found it for $700. so wooot for british people. thats like £400!

[Man-Made-God]

meh,this looks like an aria has puked on it.its good for what it is though.

[fire within]

It is about the same price as the hellraisers over here, so you are looking at about £500, maybe slightly less. Would you recommend this over the C1 hellraiser because it is between these two for my next guitar and although the Hellraiser looks nicer with the quilted top, I'm more interested in the hardware.

[Aziraphale]

I think it looks absolutely horrible with a complete lack of style (matte black with yellow binding? And a silly little arrow inlay?) but my experience with Schecter tells me that it's probably a kickass guitar.

[123-Trav]

Hmm this guitar is quite the hot topic considering the Blackouts vs EMG's debate at the moment. I think i'm leaning towards the Blackouts...

[Hakael]

The price paid was in USD. I have the C-1 Hellraiser as well, which is where I did most of my comparisons. They are tonally different, and although I still like the EMGs, I am definitely liking the Blackouts better. Nice thing is, Blackouts use the same quick connect system as standard EMGs do, so swapping them out in an already EMG equipped guitar is fairly easy. They aren't tappable like the 2008 Hellraiser EMGs though.

[luketalon]

better buy Cort EVL K6..
that's my opinion for you that didn't have much money

[Hakael]

luketalon wrote:
better buy Cort EVL K6..
that's my opinion for you that didn't have much money

I don't know if I would consider the Cort a "better buy." It is definitely less expensive, and worth a look if you're just looking at the EMG pickups. With "unnamed" diecast tuners and an "unnamed" tremolo as well, I would have concerns over tuning stabilty and durabilty. The body is also alder as opposed to mahogany. Granted, I don't see many ebony fretboards on guitars that inexpensive.

[jetfuel495]

skeetskeetskeet this guitar is amazing

[ShamiqSevenfold]

my god that thing is sexy,

[milfeh]

I'd buy it if it didn't have the camp-as-christmas lightning bolt inlay.

[Soundwash22]

I have several Schecters, IMO they are the best guitar for the money. My pride and joy is my Schecter Black Hawk, $300 bucks and still my go-to guitar. You really can't go wrong with these guys, anything they make is quality.

[gregs1020]

I just want to know when I can play that thing. Great guitar Hak! She's certainly a beauty.

[AngryGoldfish]

Great review mate. Its a shame about that bloody lighting bolt placed at the 12th fret though. In my opinion Schecters beat ESP, Cort, Jackson and other similar manafactures, due to the simple fact that they are so much more affaudable and yet they still seem to maintain a very high standard of coolness and quality. But... they put the most daft looking things on their guitars! Everything else looks stunning, but why put Gothic Cross Inlays or Lighnting bolts or 'Vine of Life' inlays. They do look impressive at times, but I just want dots man! Its the only thing that puts me off from buying any of Schecters gear.

[syn'ssistah]

i have bought this schecter..
and believe me, this guitar was really PERFECT!!
you won't be disappointed if you bought this guitar..
i love my blackjack atx schecter guitar..

[urf_]

The thing gets brilliant reviews all round, but does anyone know of a decent case for it? The Schecter case made for it tends to get fairly poor reviews on the quality and (lack of) softness inside.

[Hakael]

urf_ wrote:

The thing gets brilliant reviews all round, but does anyone know of a decent case for it? The Schecter case made for it tends to get fairly poor reviews on the quality and (lack of) softness inside.

I've heard the newer cases (and I just got one for this guitar) are better built than the older ones. I too was a bit worried about the reviews in regards to the cases, but I've been happy with mine. Latches seem solid, everything lines up, and it seems quite durable and already protected my guitar and survived through a move. I decided to finally spring for the Schecter case since trying to find a case that fit the someone long (and angled) Schecter headstocks proved a bit difficult. With many generic cases, the end of the headstock would hit the bottom of the case, either causing the tuners to move (throwing the guitar out of tune every time it was put int he case), or making me worry if it would cause the neck to snap should the case take a hard fall.

The Schecter case (newest one with the blu inner liner) was the best way to go in my opinion and fits the guitar perfectly, as it should.

[maliceheart18]

this is certainley gonna be my next guitar. the only disappoint i have is that bolt inlay.

[Enyxiel]

I've recently purchased this guitar. Arriving today actually. I'm pretty excited from what I've heard about this. The bolt inlay is a dissapointment, but I suppose beggers can't be choosers.

[tteksarbttam]

The ATX came out this year?? I had no idea. I went to my local music store and was browsing guitars and the Blackjack ATX immediately caught my eye. The SD Black Outs sounded amazing plugged in and it practically played itself it was so smooth. I came back to play it on two other occasions and ended up putting it on layaway. I still have about $150 to go and seriously can't wait to get it in my hands again. It was for selling for $690 US. I could go without the inlay, but it's not enough to keep me from this guitar. I highly recommend this to anyone that likes to rock!

[yenners]

I bought this guitar in Aged Black two months ago and haven't looked back - it's a great guitar that sounds and feels terrific. Great quality all round, and a heavy weight to remind you it's a man's guitar. The pickups with distortion almost sound like a man screaming too. Would highly recommend in this price range as you get all the good name-brand parts!

[bobby81391]

urf_ wrote:

The thing gets brilliant reviews all round, but does anyone know of a decent case for it? The Schecter case made for it tends to get fairly poor reviews on the quality and (lack of) softness inside.

[bobby81391]

bobby81391 wrote:

urf_ wrote:

The thing gets brilliant reviews all round, but does anyone know of a decent case for it? The Schecter case made for it tends to get fairly poor reviews on the quality and (lack of) softness inside.

I got a gator extra long case and it fits great.

[fluid86]

i have it. my fav guitar of all

[supertzar85]

Is the lack of inlays a big problem? anyone have any opinion on that who owns it?

[Valenar]

Is the lack of inlays a big problem?

No. I was thinking about this before buying Shecter some months ago. I thought, that the side markers would be enough... and they really are.
The guitar would be perfect If it's weight was little smaller and this 'thing' on 12th fret was replaced by normal lightning. ;]
So that's the reason, that I chose '9', not '10' ;p

[Shor-T Zero]

I think the people that are having a problem with the inlay design should check out the new Schecter 2009 models. An ace of spades inlay? Hell yeah.

[Andragon]

Gorgeous axe. Schecter is quickly becoming my favorite.

[jetfuel495]

Andragon wrote:

Gorgeous axe. Schecter is quickly becoming my favorite.

And for good reason. These guitars are teh secks

[decayingdave]

This is the same as most schecters, nice hardware but a bland appearance. This is a nice review, but the guitar's got no identity - and for a heavy guitar brand that competes with ESP, BC Rich and Dean, schecter's not at the top of the pile as far as I'm concerned.

Nice review, though far too over-zealous for my liking, you did well - Shame the guitar sucks!

[Guitar_tischler]

Why is there a new schecter guitar review eveery day?

[korman7]

wow....you call it blackjack....which is a sick name...and they inlay is a broken arrow? wwhat the ****

[BillR87]

Gawjus Id love one of these

[jenjef]

For what it is it's well worth the money. But if you're looking to buy a superstrat-type guitar for heavy metal or great soloing, there are better guitars out there. Try ESP, try Ibanez, try Jackson. But this one definately is not more than a 'good' guitar.

[xshredder01x]

It took me sooooo long to get this guitar. I ordered it and it took 6 whole months to get. thanks for the review it really helped in my choice this is a 10.

[twoonie2]

Just picked one of these up yesterday (Non FR model).. and absolutely love it!!! fantastic all around.. you will not be disappointed!!! If metal is your game .. this is "THE" guitar for it!! WOW!

[CigarKid]

I have a suggestion about the "inlay". First, I recently purchased one of these and I must say it feels, plays, and sounds unreal! The neck feels like a Gibson Les Paul and it has almost as good a sustain (almost). The sound is nice and deep solid sounding and the action is nice and low with little to no buzzing. This guitar is perfect for playing stuff like: AC\DC, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin ect. I guess people like it for Metal also, but I don't play Metal. I'm 46 and Metal just doesn't do it for me. This is by far the best bang for the buck in guitars of this type without a dought. Note to all: The "active" Seymour Duncan pickups on this guitar are only available on the 2008 model. The 2009 pickups are Non-Active. Now, back to my Suggestion about the "inlay". Instead of using a Broken Arrow or Oversized Playing Cards on the 12th fret, since the guitar is called "Blackjack and it is the Diamond Series", Why not use "Diamonds for the inlay. Or even Hearts, Diamonds, Clubs, Spades.
I recommend that the people in charge at Schecter do more research on what people like cosmetically. You guys definitely got it right with the rest of the guitar.

[CigarKid]

I have a suggestion about the "inlay". First, I recently purchased one of these and I must say it feels, plays, and sounds unreal! The neck feels like a Gibson Les Paul and it has almost as good a sustain (almost). The sound is nice and deep solid sounding and the action is nice and low with little to no buzzing. This guitar is perfect for playing stuff like: AC\DC, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin ect. I guess people like it for Metal also, but I don't play Metal. I'm 46 and Metal just doesn't do it for me. This is by far the best bang for the buck in guitars of this type without a dought. Note to all: The "active" Seymour Duncan pickups on this guitar are only available on the 2008 model. The 2009 pickups are Non-Active. Now, back to my Suggestion about the "inlay". Instead of using a Broken Arrow or Oversized Playing Cards on the 12th fret, since the guitar is called "Blackjack and it is the Diamond Series", Why not use "Diamonds for the inlay. Or even Hearts, Diamonds, Clubs, Spades.
I recommend that the people in charge at Schecter do more research on what people like cosmetically. You guys definitely got it right with the rest of the guitar.

[Hakael]

CigarKid wrote:

I have a suggestion about the "inlay". First, I recently purchased one of these and I must say it feels, plays, and sounds unreal! The neck feels like a Gibson Les Paul and it has almost as good a sustain (almost). The sound is nice and deep solid sounding and the action is nice and low with little to no buzzing. This guitar is perfect for playing stuff like: AC\DC, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin ect. I guess people like it for Metal also, but I don't play Metal. I'm 46 and Metal just doesn't do it for me. This is by far the best bang for the buck in guitars of this type without a dought. Note to all: The "active" Seymour Duncan pickups on this guitar are only available on the 2008 model. The 2009 pickups are Non-Active. Now, back to my Suggestion about the "inlay". Instead of using a Broken Arrow or Oversized Playing Cards on the 12th fret, since the guitar is called "Blackjack and it is the Diamond Series", Why not use "Diamonds for the inlay. Or even Hearts, Diamonds, Clubs, Spades.
I recommend that the people in charge at Schecter do more research on what people like cosmetically. You guys definitely got it right with the rest of the guitar.

The 2009 model DOES have actives. Keep in mind that Schecter has two "families" of Blackjack guitars. The Blackjack Series has non-active Seymour Duncans (and a great set at that). The Blackjack ATX series(which is what this review is for) has the active Seymour Duncan Blackout pickups, which is still available in the 2009 model. The ATX version also differentiates itself by the use of the single "lightning bolt" marker on the 12th fret.

[crowdome]

I'm in London and am looking to buy a Schecter (either this guitar or the Hellraiser C-1 FR), where can I get a Schecter?
Is there any retailers in England or do I have to order online, because the cheapest I've seen is about £700

[fretboardman]

maybe the lightning means it is shocking?

[Atheistgreek]

what`s better?? this one or jackson dkmg??? (jackson is about 100 - 150 euros cheaper). Which one should i buy??

[SOADriff]

Atheistgreek wrote:

what`s better?? this one or jackson dkmg??? (jackson is about 100 - 150 euros cheaper). Which one should i buy??

Schecter by a mile.

[talon_scca09]

I have the tune-o-matic version and it is SICK. Schecter locking tuners, Tone Pros locking tune-o-matic bridge and i play it through a Peavey Vypyr 75. Absolutely awesome.

[talon_scca09]

fretboardman wrote:

maybe the lightning means it is shocking?

According to the 2009 catalog,the lightning is the "Active Symbol" for the pickups. lol

[bobthebum16]

This, jackson dk2m, or a prs SE custom 24. Which is better?

[talon_scca09]

bobthebum16 :
This, jackson dk2m, or a prs SE custom 24. Which is better?
POSTED: 09/09/2009 - 111 pm / quote |

Definitely the Schecter. I have a Jackson Dinky sitting right beside mine right now with DiMarzio's in it and the Schecter feels better in your hands and absolutely sounds better. And i have to say i have the OLD Jackson Dinky from the late 90's when they were still awesome guitars. These newer Jacksons don't hold a candle to the older ones IMHO.

[talon_scca09]

jenjef :
For what it is it's well worth the money. But if you're looking to buy a superstrat-type guitar for heavy metal or great soloing, there are better guitars out there. Try ESP, try Ibanez, try Jackson. But this one definately is not more than a 'good' guitar.

I absolutely do not agree with that statement. I've own a Jackson Dinky from the 90's, Blows it away. A Jackson USA SL-2 Soloist, ATX sounds and plays better. Ibanez RG570,550,Jem7dbk, sounds better and plays smoother than all of them. My gibson Les Paul custom sounds heavier but the tone is better with the blackouts. ESP MH400B flat black didn't sound as good with EMG's but felt kind of similar. But i do prefer the blackjack over all of them.

[Rautio]

The inlay sucks a bit, yeah, but it's still better than those ESP (ltd) "EC-256" -style or even "ESP" -inlays.

[Schecter_Andy]

I purchased the c-1 blackjack atx without the floyd rose over a week ago. At first i wasnt a big fan of how it looked, but this guitar rocks my socks. I was also told by multiple people at the shop that this one was much better than the fr version as far as string tension and tunability goes.