Summary: this guitar is one of the few models out there that just has what I need.
OK, what WAS it ... that I needed in a guitar?
- Tuned down to A standard
- Baritone (27+ inch) scale
- Evertune bridge. Because it would save me a LOT of time in recording sessions
- Comfortable to play
- BIG ... but very tight heavy metal rhythm tone
- All black finish
Besides the black finish ... this guitar just has it all.
The reason why it took me long to decide, is that there are NO alternatives to choose from. And that's a pity.
There's another brown (A1-27) model from Solar Guitars itself, of which I had the luxury to have at my place for comparison, together with this S1-27. The A1 was tighter but a bit more sterile. This S1 felt more "organic" and "loose" ... and I finally went for the S1.
Pros - - - - - - -
1) Evertune Bridge. The key selling point of this guitar. This concept works! I actually tune only once a week.
2) Ergonomics & features. The design of this guitar makes it SUPER comfortable to play. Ola definitely knows his business!
Cons - - - - - - -
1) The Evertune bridge. The disadvantages of an Evertune are:
> the string tension (as you "feel" it) is lower because of the use of big strings at the back of the body, that act as a counterweight for each guitar string individually. It's like having a Floyd Rose system PER STRING that constantly keeps every string "in balance". But in order to get the same "resistance" against your own picking-motion, you need strings 1 gauge thicker than you're used to.
> tone is (not much but a tiny bit) less resonant and "firm".
> the Evertune-springs have a maximum tension. When using 14-68 Curt Mangan strings tuned to A, I'm near the edge of what's capable with this bridge. You CAN order 6 "high tension" saddles from Evertune, but it will cost you 240 US dollars. Mmm ...
> high ringing noises from the 6 thick springs in this system. Something you witness when playing high-gain sounds. I consulted Evertune themselves for a possible solution on this issue. Maybe dampening those strings could solve it, just as it did on my Floyd Rose equipped guitars back in the 90's. But for now ... I cannot make this guitar "dead silent" like I'm used to.
2) The setup. The neck was too straight. The nut was setup too high. Two littles issues that could have been avoided. I expect a 1200 euro guitar to have a correct setup straight from the factory.
Neutral - - - - - - - -
1) Sound. Wood of body and neck are made from "Mahogany" (What is "Mahogany"? From what I've read on the Internet this is VERY broad defined). Good but nothing really special. Pickups are OK.
2) The pointy edges in the design. Looks really nice, but I'm also sure that those are the first spots where the lacquer chips off, when I start using this guitar more frequently.
So after 2 months of use, what's the verdict?
If I can succeed in making the bridge "dead silent", this guitar will probably be my "Working Man's Friend" and number 1 choice. Simply because of the fact that I can just pick it up and start recording. Amazing!
Will I fall in love with this guitar? This guitar isn't like my Fender Custom Shop Tele, or my 90's LP Custom ... that's not a fair comparison. But time will tell if my Solar S1-27 will become more than the "essential tool" that it is for me right now.
