My first 8-string, my first multiscale, my first active pickups, and a lot of "my first" other things.
Transition from 6 string to this was actually pretty easy, and I really appreciate the new compositional possibilities that come with this extended range.
Finish is a lot darker and less saturated than the pictures they give, which I really like. But that's all subjective. Here are some slightly more objective points:
Hardware is on point:
- Locking tuners do their job well
- Pickups are fantastic. Incredibly versatile
- Neutral fret is at a great position, unlike the ridiculous Ibanez 12th fret
- Spoke wheel is SO convenient. Life changing.
- Overall relatively light for an 8 string.
Cons:
- Pretty severe neck dive, but may be a common problem among 8 strings. And that's a sacrifice for the lighter body,
- Plastic nut and nickel frets... though you can't expect much else at this price point.
- Frets are a bit small (medium jumbo), but that could be a pro if you're into it.
- No Luminlay. But again, the price.
- Finish flaws seem to be a common problem. Consider that if it REALLY matters to you - but they're barely noticeable.
- It's a bit hard to change strings since the saddles are angled from the actual string holes. You have to bend it after poking it through with some small apparatus.
Ultimately if you factor in the price you really can't complain about much. Incredible guitar for its price.