Thoughts on Carvin/recommendations for 7 strings?

[elijahguitar96]

Hey guys,

I have a tryout for a band soon which will require me to use a 7 string. I was already in the market to purchase one, and this gives me all the more reason to. I have spoken to a Carvin employee, got my quote, and I do like what I see and hear. Their prices are also fantastic in my eyes. However, it seems that some people love them, some people don't. I was wondering what you guys here think about their products and if you have any other recommendations for 7 string guitars (production models and custom). I haven't had the opportunity to really play a Carvin guitar, except for a bass a friend of mine had a few years back. So lend me your feedback and hopefully we get a good discussion rolling!

 

[dfranks]

Re: Thoughts on Carvin/recommendations for 7 strings?

I can't speak to a Carvin 7 string guitar but I owned a Carvin back in the early 80's. I loved it but lost it in a divorce way back when. And then I purchased their AE185 about 15 years ago or so and still have it. In fact I also have a Carvin 100 watt 1/2 stack as well. It is a MONSTER in power and tone! .Carvin's quality, IMO, is as good, or better, than any Gibson, Fender, Ibanez, etc than I've ever owned or played. Their necks feel and play good; even their stock pickups are excellent IMO. I even had a time to talk with their service department and had a very positive experience (it was my issue not theirs) .The only negative that I can say about Carvin guitars is that, for some reason, they don't seem to hold their value very well. The flip side to that is that you can usually find great deals on them on EBay or Craigslist and I would suggest checking there if you are looking for a deal. But if you want to be the 1st owner of the guitar, and I totally understand; been there done that, order a new one. If I'm not mistaken they offer a 10 day 'try it' period so you can always return it if you don't like it. But I doubt you will Good luck on your audition!

 

[elijahguitar96]

Re: Thoughts on Carvin/recommendations for 7 strings?

I do want to be the first owner, actually. Not that there is anything wrong with used, as both my beloved Les Paul and Strat had previous owners, I would just like this to be a fresh start experience. Their customer service is almost unmatched, the only ones I like better are DW (Drum Workshop), as I am primarily a drummer. But the options are endless after I had spoken to one of their representatives on the phone to hammer out some custom details and he couldn't be more helpful, knowledgeable, and actually excited about the possible project at hand. As far as sound goes, I'm looking for some serious versatility with my instrument. I can switch pickups if need be, but have you had any issues with your Carvin equipment as far as finding the right sound for you?

 

[BloodRose]

Re: Thoughts on Carvin/recommendations for 7 strings?

Welcome to the forum! good luck with the audition! Carvin makes great playing guitars! Ive had a few and regret selling them. I must own another one day!

 

[elijahguitar96]

Re: Thoughts on Carvin/recommendations for 7 strings?

Thanks! Have you had any experience with their extended range guitars?

 

[dfranks]

Re: Thoughts on Carvin/recommendations for 7 strings?

Totally agree with being the 1st owner, nothing like custom ordering your guitar. As far as finding the right sound... that was never an issue. Back when I was playing the bar scene we were playing covers of classic rock and some country. Of course back then the classic rock wasn't classic yet..lol. But seriously I never had a problem dialing in the sound I needed and it was pretty common for guys coming up asking how I was getting 'that sound' on a certain song, checking out my equipment, etc. etc. I'm sure you'll be happy with a Carvin. Have fun!

 

[BloodRose]

Re: Thoughts on Carvin/recommendations for 7 strings?

Thanks! Have you had any experience with their extended range guitars?

Ive only owned thier six stringers, but played one of thier 7s once. It played excellent as I expected. Low action, excellent fit and finish.

 

[greekdude]

Re: Thoughts on Carvin/recommendations for 7 strings?

Carvin are good guitars. A little bit more unstable with weather but overall fantastic. I didn't like stock pups tho.