Don't Listen to People Online... | Jackson Soloist SL3 American

[@bigred6137]

The dudes who complain about a guitar not having SS frets are the same dudes that buy and sell a guitar every 3 months

[@apacheworrier3776]

How many people are playing enough to wear out frets anyway? By the time you wear them out, you’ve squeezed every penny of value out of the guitar.

[@travissimpson7829]

It's not just about fret wear. Ss frets have more of a glassy feel and brighter sound

[@sir.shreddington]

I've been known to do that... lol. But I'm a changed man, I'm keeping all of my axes moving forward!

[@bigred6137]

@@travissimpson7829 I’ve heard that and that’s what he mentioned in the video too! Just saying the complainers are usually the big gear heads lol

[@swarmer5]

@@apacheworrier3776One of my schecters has really flat frets after only 3 years of playing, never going back to nickel after this experience

[@FortessofShred]

$1,800 is a good price. They were out of their minds at $2,400.

[@michaelrodriguez7032]

1800 is still too much, you can build one with same specs half the price.

[@todoguitar]

It has a very bad quality. The parts are feel like a cheap parts. I had to choose the best of worst three ones that I have seen in guitar center I bought it brought it home and next day took it back due to low quality construction and the parts the knobs were like cheap the truss rod adjustment was wrong, etc… I have a huge guitar collection and I play guitar so I know exactly what I’m talking about. And it’s definitely not worth the price they selling for. And I’m not even mentioning that cheap soft case.

[@waynemiller8264]

As a toolmaker i dont know how anyone can say nickel frets are going to be easier on your fingers 😅 your not gong to feel a difference. Nickel is not spongy lol. Myself stainless is better for overall wear and its stainless. Nickel Will corrode… sound’s wise your gonna dial in your tone regardless

[@RobSchauland1911]

Back in 1989, a Soloist like this in a custom color would run you around $1800. Run your inflation calculator on that. I’ll do it for you. It’s $4600 in today’s money. Fender did a great job on these. Stainless steel frets sound no different. You probably believe in tone wood too.

[@rawkout]

if someone's complaining about 1500 vs OFR I'd be willing to bet they couldn't tell the difference when actually playing them

[@FortessofShred]

The problem is that they wear quicker because of cheaper metals

[@rawkout]

@@FortessofShred says who? have you done this? even FR claims its made from the same stuff. are you calling them liars? get your !@#$ together

[@rullopat]

You also confuse the special and the 1000 with the 1500 like most people@@FortessofShred

[@admgloval]

You can tell a 1000 or 1500 series right away as the fine tuners are gritty feeling and not smooth like an OFR. Also you can see where they bent the top part of the baseplate, you can actually see where the metal is flared/stressed out on the top bend where the fine tuners are mounted.

[@rawkout]

@@admgloval see the thing is i said "when playing them" not when taking it apart (done that, i can tell 1000 is bent plate) or fine tuning (yea its not super fine threads)

[@Jefferson.mccarthy]

its elitist mentality - original floyd and SS frets over the rest...boring argument. SS frets have not been around that long although keyboard warriors want to act like it should be standard across all guitars otherwise they are instantly trash. The 1500 series FR has better part that won't rust over time or take a hell of alot of playing/sweat to do so. People want to wear their badge of honour to say one is better than the other...similar to your end point, most people ive seen saying such things can't back it up with playing. If people like It how It is then no reason to shame them.

[@dustinreid2947]

I'm glad someone finally said what I was thinking. So much negativity around these guitars and most people haven't even played one. My SL3 is the best playing guitar I've ever owned.

[@sir.shreddington]

Yeah dude, these guitars play insanely good

[@deanwilliams433]

To me, the missing neck and headstock binding is the biggest issue. Just makes the guitar look cheaper when you compare it to what they offer on the offshore models. I agree that SS frets are personal choice, but the Floyd should be the OG at the price point.

[@MEWOVER9000]

I just picked one up new for $1550. Has everything and more for what I look for in a guitar. Dropped the extra money to get made in the US, as country of origin is important to me. I can't wait for it to come. Love Jackson guitars. I feel like a lot of the discourse on this existed in the context of the original price point. Its an absolute steal at $1550. However, for the original asking price of $2600, I can understand why people were a bit critical. If I dropped $2600, I would want an original Floyd on there as well. Especially considering the made in China option had identical specs and was $1000 cheaper. Not to mention how plain the MIA models look compared to their MIC or MII counterparts. The price drop of ~40% in just a year and a half speaks to the fact that it was overpriced when it first came out. I did a lot of research and concluded that this would be the best possible guitar to buy for what I wanted. However, I don't think I would have spent any more than I did on it.

[@jimfrancemusic4813]

It all comes down to what works for you as an individual. All of my guitars are lower end, and i didn't pay more than $700 for any of them, but they do the job i need them to do. I just make home recordings of songs I've written, and I'm happy with what i have. People just need to be willing to find the instruments that resonate with them, and ignore the naysayers.

[@rmax5150]

I'm the same as you. I'm 50 yrs. old and started playing around 14. My 1st guitar was the cheapest plywood Epiphone you could buy at that time. Plywood, horrendous pups, pots, switch, hardware, etc..., there was not a single redeeming quality to be found on that guitar. Which btw, I still own, lol! I now own 20 guitars, and like you, not a single one of them had a price of over 700. I grew up in poverty and obviously before internet, so if something needed to be fixed, changed or I wanted to try to make a cheep guitar better, I figured out how to do it on my own for little to no money. From looking for used better quality pups and figuring out how to install them, to leveling and crowning worn frets. Eventually, I realized I had learned enough to do anything that could be done to make a cheap guitar play and sound how I want it to. Honestly, as hard as life could be as a kid in my situation, I'm grateful for that in some ways. It forced me to learn to do things for myself, as opposed to spending ridiculous amounts of $$ and whining about silly little details.😎

[@bassplayer2011ify]

So stainless vs nickle is personal preference. As for the Floyd at this price point it should be an original. There is no excuse for that. Between Kramer, Ibanez, and EVH I can get a similar specced instrument for half the price. Only major difference is this Jackson happened to be CNCed in the US.

[@sir.shreddington]

I'm still in love with the pop-in bar, I don't care. If they made an original with a pop-in bar, I'd be all over it

[@irishRocker1]

@@sir.shreddington I got a SL2 Soloist a couple years ago. Before these came out. Trans purple with FR1000. The screw on trem bar isn't too bad but it gets loose and if you tighten it more it is too tight. its a bit of a pain. I saw the plug in upgrade so it seems like a worthwhile upgrade. Can you set the tension as well? I prefer it to move to where I put it but then stay there.

[@sir.shreddington]

I think so. It looks like there is an allen head screw right outside of the hole that the bar goes in. I haven’t messed with it but that’s probably where you tighten or loosen it. One thing I’ve done on my Floyd’s in the past is take some brown tape (maybe ducked tape or plumber tape will work too) and put a small amount in the twisty thing on the bar to help keep it from being too loose. You might also try putting it around the piece where you screw the bar into. It’s the same concept as putting plumber tape around a faucet to help keep the connection tight.

[@rullopat]

People continuosly confuse the 1000 with the 1500, they are 2 completely different beasts. The 1500 is made in Korea with the same level of materials of the original@@irishRocker1

[@trevor4533]

@@rullopat Right from Floyd Rose's website. The 1500 Series Tremolo is the upgraded version of the 1000 Series Tremolo with stainless steel screws and a Push-In tremolo arm. The bridge plate, saddles, insert blocks, studs & inserts, and locking nut retain those of the 1000 Series. Like the 1000 Series, the 1500 Series is only available to guitar manufacturers and is not available for aftermarket purchase. You can upgrade your existing 1000 Series with these parts to make a 1500 Series: • Push-In Tremolo Arm • Stainless Steel Screws

[@EL_DUDERIN0]

Dude, right on. I'm really glad I didn't read anything online before I purchased my SL3 because this thing is perfect in every way. I'm really not sure what these other people are playing when they say $2300 for a brand new American-made Jackson is overpriced, especially with how perfect this thing is. That's some crack smoking right there.

[@michael4591]

SS frets ARE better. And compared to what Jackson USA used to be these new american Jacksons ARE a bad joke!

[@pauln6803]

I wouldn't call them a bad joke, more overpriced. I'm hoping Jackson has it's QC issues sorted because under Fender ownership it's been almost Gibson like in the way that the prices were ramped up as QC took a back seat.

[@johanjotun1647]

Stainless frets are NOT overrated, Stainless are FAR superior. The tone being effected would only be preciveable if you were to mic you fiddle unplugged as the signal is coming from the pick-ups when its plugged in, that difference cannot be hurd thru the signal amplification chain. I don't even have to be a top player to understand sound engineering tho I majored in both, as far as electric guitars and Tone its common knowledge that the wood, frets, pups ect don't mean jack in the signal out. Those myths been busted for decades. Concerning Electric guitar "Tone" IS nothing but a Sales pitch. The Best electric guitar IS the one thats easiest to play.

[@Bleachdemon88]

Just got the blue one today, it’s absolutely amazing for the build quality. SS frets are moot and I have them on three guitars currently. The Floyd 1500 is also moot, it’s the same dimensions and materials as a OFR just made in Korea. The deluxe LTD, PRS SE series and high end Schecters over a grand are all approaching Japan levels of craftsmanship so the Floyd is gonna be good. Neck is amazing and if you like Jackson but you want an OFR check out the Japanese series. This guy has a very balanced perspective and he’s right, you need to try different things to see what you like. It’s a personal journey and it’s a matter of self discovery and finding what you like and how you do things.

[@therealone1288]

I agree for that price it should have an original floyd or schaller. But stainless steel vs nickle is as you said. Plus not all stainless steel is created equal.

[@therealone1288]

I'm also not knocking the 1500, just at that price point it is weird.

[@sir.shreddington]

I get it. Honestly, I'm digging the pop in bar so much right now I'd rather have this trem.

[@patrickshannon4516]

Floyd Rose special isn't that big of a deal had all different kinds of different Floyd's before and Floyd Rose special isn't that bad it's about the same really. The only difference is one has got some cast steel and the other one is completely steel all the way through. At most it will probably have a little better sustain with the a regular Floyd Rose.

[@arroncusimano9169]

downvoted for having an opinion

[@reverendg5937]

Most are not aware that it is the high nickel content that makes stainless steel resistant to corrosion. Stainless steel isn't any harder as far as steel density goes. It's the high nickel content the helps it to resistant corrosion and why it's expensive. FYI

[@Dominoesfall757]

Yeah these new jacksons are great. Really like my virtuoso.

[@sir.shreddington]

I love it. The neck profiles on Jackson and Charvels are my absolute favorites.

[@d3ath18]

Ofc the 1500 works. The issue is the cheaper metal wearing/bending out. On a guitar that sells retail for 2k$ it's absolutely insane to not have top quality components. That's the issue. The 1500 is great and even better on 4-600$ guitars.. It has virtually nothing to do with skill and everything to do with multi-million dollar companies cheaping out on components after already making a 200+% profit on their products.

[@maplechill75]

With nickel frets, playing with pure nickel strings will result in far less wear. Steel and nickel plated steel wound strings are a good bit harder.

[@sir.shreddington]

Good point

[@totallyawesome80s55]

Yeah, I've seen the hyperbolic "Jackson is FINISHED!!!!" type of videos. I'm a fan of Jackson going back to the 80s. I'm also a fan of Ibanez, Kramer, ESP, etc., so I like to think I'm not completely biased... I bought one of Jackson's new Pro Plus Soloists recently and I was initially concerned because they're made in China, and they used a non-traditional body wood. But after playing it...WOW. It's an awesome guitar. But even it has stainless frets, so it's a weird choice for Jackson not to put stainless on the more expensive American series. And, yes, it should definitely have the OFR or a Gotoh FR. Not because the 1000 or 1500 sucks; but because they're charging premium prices and using mid-range parts. But it sounds like the American Soloist is perfect for what you like and I'm happy for you, man! It's a great feeling to play a guitar that's everything you want.

[@sir.shreddington]

I hear you. Now that I've spent some time with this guitar and trem, I'm still really loving it. I've solidified my opinion on the 1500 and actually like it better. Mainly because of the pop in bar and that it feels like an Ibanez lo pro edge. I've always loved those trems. Regarding the rest, I totally know that I'm the odd man out preferring nickel frets. All in all, I'm really pleased with this axe. It's so fun to play. Thx for commenting!

[@Guitar_Steve]

Very true. As an example, I tried out the Jackson Virtuoso and, I wouldn't pay $500 for it. ugh. They want $2k for that. Whatever.

[@kambion]

Stainless are better. Objectively. "For whatever reason"? Nickel frets don't "wear faster"... they wear. Stainless steel frets don't. I have both SS and N frets, the sound difference is negligible, and SS frets are smoother to bend on. A luthier will NEVER work on your SS frets, because they don't wear. Lastly, for $2500, I'm not buying the I want an original floyd. Ask anyone in a gigging band.

[@sir.shreddington]

nah

[@TheDistortionPrinciple]

At this price point they really are skimping and taking us fir a ride

[@sir.shreddington]

Maybe. I kind of get the trem issue, but I don't think it's that big of a deal. I don't think the difference is as apparent as a lot of people make it out to be.

[@scootertb26]

so you own one? what do you think of it so far?

[@sir.shreddington]

I really dig it. It’s a blast to play and the neck is super fast. Trem flutters too. I swapped pickups but only because I never got along with a JB

[@Spivonious]

It's not that the 1500 series is that much worse, it's that a $2000 guitar should have an OFR. That's all. It would have cost Fender $10 more per guitar and saved them a lot of bad PR.

[@donniejean]

I’ve spent years collecting guitars. But can’t play them, wouldn’t want to scratch my collection! Then just recently (finally) I said who cares, started selling off all my gear, bought some cheap guitars like that Jackson neon green for $600 and threw some weirdo color knobs on it. I’m totally having fun again. And if I scratch, ding it, chip it, just adds character! Your comment at 4:09 is perfect for me!!!

[@algo-ninja6815]

Nickel frets are fine, 1500 Floyd is fine, hell even then shit case is fine. But the gloss finish neck is god d*** cardinal sin . I bought one brand new and immediately scuffed the neck to a nice satin finish the way the schecters are. Plays significantly better

[@USMarine75]

90% of all tone differences can be dialed in/out with small tweaks of tone knobs. Reminds me of different versions of the OCD pedal that sound SO different with knobs set exactly the same. Meanwhile minor twists of the knobs and they’re identical. So whatever, go practice!

[@pauln6803]

The "softness on your fingers"!? Sorry, now I've heard it all! It's bad enough with the debunked (multiple times) tone wood thing, but claiming nickel alloy frets are sofer on your fingers??

[@ultimatemetalguitartones]

Just buy a used USA soloist for the same price. In fact, get a pre Fender one . There is a huge difference in terms of quality.

[@admgloval]

The EVH Wolfgang Special IMO is a much better deal than one of these. These look cool and probably play well but $2k for a guitar with mid-range parts is ridiculous and just Fender/Jackson being greedy.

[@barry3045]

Only two things bother me about these guitars. At this price it should have a hard case , and the shark fin inlays are flipped compared to other Jackson’s. That’s all. Great guitar. Green is sharp.

[@sir.shreddington]

I agree about the case- I overlooked it. You have to leave the mold in the soft case too, otherwise your guitar will bang around inside

[@retrochannel1763]

1800 bucks and fret sproude? My pacifica has been in perfect condition. Much lower price.

[@gunkyzip]

you bought a "new" guitar with fret sprout for $1800?

[@sir.shreddington]

Hence the discount. It's a quick 10 minute fix on nickel frets. Place tape over the pickups and grab your file. Be a man

[@SonegPanasoneg]

Dude, such an expensive guitar with cheap model of floyd rose, without hard shell case and SS frets is a real scam from Jackson👎🏻

[@Necropheliac]

I think it’s a bit too expensive but I do like playing it. Criticism is always welcome but I do think it’s a bit of an overreaction. There is a consistent complaint about quality control, and I do think guitar manufacturers should all step up on quality control. The thing is that this is nearly a universal problem. There are many instrument manufacturers that need better quality control.

[@JMSchroeder89]

Bullshit you can't hear a tonal difference between fret materials.

[@mannyfragoza9652]

You couldnt be more right about those critical about everything guitar but they totally suck and can hardly play at all. It's what i call guitar envoy. BTW love the guitar and a very cool color.

[@jackolson8775]

...the thing about "people on the internet" is that on every issue, topic, product, etc. there are polar opposites on both sides and they make the most noise. However, they are the VAST MINORITY of people and we pay wayyyy too much attention to them.✌🏼

[@sir.shreddington]

Sir, you are on the Internet. Logic has no place here.

[@addicted2tone349]

I’m not a fan of SS frets but I kinda get the Floyd thing. I just didn’t vibe with that brightness. That being said, you can upgrade the trem eventually if it’s that big of a deal.

[@reverendg5937]

Nickel Fretts IHO sound better with passive pickups. As Stainless sounds more aggressive with Active Pickups. The SL3 has hot rod fender style single coils. That's what I believe.

[@brijul630]

Got a new guitar! Spent $2500. What pickups should I change it to? The tuners are a little slow. Why does it buzz when I swapped it to 13s from 9s.......

[@sir.shreddington]

I get your point, but none of these issues on this guitar.

[@brijul630]

​@@sir.shreddington Oh no! I agree with your rant totally. It's more a comment on people online not having a clue about the guitars when they purchase them and how much modding goes on almost immediately after purchasing.

[@sir.shreddington]

Oh duh! 😂 now I got ya! Yeah I mod everything. I already modded the pickups on this too.

[@JD-vj4go]

I'd prefer an OFR and stainless frets but I still want a hulk soloist. That thing's awesome. You got it for a great price too.

[@sir.shreddington]

I get that people have preferences and that's fair. Honestly though, if you haven't given this axe a try yet...you should dude

[@peachmelba1000]

Nope. That Floyd will wear out. The MSRP is bonkers.

[@kylezakk]

I don't think it will wear out. I've played a guitar with a FR special for 2 years pretty regularly before the threads of one of the saddles stripped, I now have an OFR. Its a ripoff that a guitar that expensive doesn't have an OFR

[@wjewell63]

Yeah I'm sticking with the nickel silver myself....👍

[@JInfinity7]

Grover Jackson has nothing to do with modern Jacksons. He was making Friedman guitars last time I checked

[@sir.shreddington]

Correct, he was. He’s moved on to another project as of late

[@Treize_XIII]

Exactly, we need to try it. It's a guitar, not a specs sheet we need to check each line! I have a japanese DK2T from 2009 (alder, bolt-on, TOM string through, SH4/SH2) which I like a lot except for the volume pot placement and I wanted a floyd. I bought the Jackson virtuoso, a bolt-on with a floyd and a "right" volume pot placement. Plus I got 2 extra "single coil" positions that I use sursprisingly. This guitar was perfectly set up from the factory, fret job is excellent and I have nothing to complain about nickel frets or FR 1500. SS frets are interesting but they do not always mean quality fret job. My guitar tech advises to not install SS frets on a brand new guitar but it's ok for a second job when the neck is stable.

[@pauln6803]

It's not so much neck stability as wasting your money when you've just paid for a brand new guitar.

[@paolodeantoni2651]

I m italian...i can't read english 😢 It s not a good guitar? I m putting money away for that guitar... Please , simple reply Ciao

[@sir.shreddington]

It’s an excellent guitar! Very good! You’ll love it 🤙

[@arroncusimano9169]

think for yourself, you decide what you like, dont let josh scott or that pedal show decide for you

[@1972Georges]

unless you get a titanium floyd I agree....

[@sir.shreddington]

I've always been interested in a titanium Floyd...

[@al6377]

Hi Jason, great review, thank you. I am torn between this new American series and the concept series.. what do you think? Many thanks!!

[@sir.shreddington]

Thanks! I haven’t played anything from the concept series so I can’t really say. I do love the American series though!

[@al6377]

@@sir.shreddington thank you! I might just go with the American series :-)

[@K707OR30]

Great video. I bought one of the virtuosos and it’s a great guitar. I know I’m going to sound elitist when I say this and maybe I am but it’s a point that needs to be made - I think a lot of the hate comes from people not being able to afford the higher end gear. Not everyone can and that’s fine, but does that means you have to go around trashing everything? And who are you to tell people how to spend their money? If I can buy a 2600 dollar guitar that people “hate” because of the price, and I’m financially just fine and it’s what I want to spend my money on - why do people care so much if I do that? Another factor that bugs me with people’s opinions on these guitars is they’re often the same people whining about wanting a USA made whatever it is, crying that everything is made in China or Indonesia. So then Jackson makes their first production US guitars in ages, or maybe ever; and then people want to complain about price point. You don’t get US made quality, fully spec’d out guitars at bottom tier, overseas slave labor production prices. So pick one or the other. I’m also going to add another point: so many people are quick to praise how amazing this amp or that amp is, and it’s all based on sound because versus a guitar, trying to judge an amp’s build quality is hard. It’s not that intuitive at all, knowing what separates a well built amp from a poorly built amp. Yet all the “experts” I’ve seen online steer people away from what could be an example of a somewhat cheaper but decently built amp toward a more expensive, prettier amp with internals and build quality that are total shit. All because “this one is more expensive and looks cooler therefore it’s better” is their logic. Same as the people who shit on solid state just out of principle, same people who compare the 2203 to the 4100 Marshalls without even understanding the preamp circuit isn’t remotely even close to being the same design but compare them as though they are just with diode clipping, same people who crucify the jcm900s for having diodes in the preamp while boosting their amps with clipping diode pedals or singing the praises of the silver jubilee which has diode clipping in its preamp circuit. Same people who think Mesa is the be-all, end-all without understanding just how poorly built and they are and how little QC there is for the price point. I could go on and on. Point being I’m there with you - don’t listen to internet trolls. Had to learn that the hard way.

[@sir.shreddington]

Thanks! Solid points, especially about the amps

[@gonzalooliveraalves]

I agree with your point: There are a lot of guys who just prefer to complain about the specs of the guitar, while not doing much in the playing department. Question: What do you mean when you say that the nickel frets are "softer on your hands"? I read a lot about SS frets (haven't tried them because I can't find guitars with them where I live), and people always say that the bends feel significantly easier, and that when you polish them, they stay with that polished feel for a long time. I would've thought that SS feel softer in that sense, in the playing aspect, more than the plain toughness of the material itself. So, what do you mean when you say "softer" in this case?

[@kylezakk]

SS frets feel like nickel frets that have just been polished, I like them a lot and I do not perceive any tonal difference. SS frets don't need to be polished.

[@sir.shreddington]

I have had, and currently own, guitars with SS frets, and they feel more dense to me. Nickel frets feel softer or less dense, and I just feel more at home on them if that makes sense.

[@vincebu6441]

Already have a USA sl2 mah. Best guitar I own, no need for another expensive jackson.. gotta save for a rainy day, bills, etc...

[@anidemolimacnauj]

Lets keep high standards, this is nothing personal. The bottom line is that I think that you getting a new guitar for like 70% of normal price is distorting your view on how a price/quality relation works. - "Anything with Grover Jackson's name attached to it you can count on it being quality" -> Tell that to the copious amount of people who get custom shop guitars with unforgivable issues in 4k+ instruments - Nickel vs SS - SS are objectively more durable, thats not an opinion. That being said, not all non SS are made the same. On tonal qualities, I highly doubt that anyone is able to systematically tell the differences on a blind trial in an isolated clean guitar track. I am certain that none can tell the difference on a high gain setting; even less in a mix. - The fret sprout argument is self defeating; you got a less than optimal instrument. For the price, that's not admissible. - On the bridge, its not that this not a good bridge, is that on this price point there are better bridges because they're more durable. Its not pointless that something lasts more than something else; you're saving money. - What does anybody know? Not gonna comment. - That people "cant play" does not make their arguments invalid, specially regarding something that has little to do with that which is assessing the quality of an instruments given a point price. I would jump on that guitar for 1,8k but for what it used to cost... its not that it's a bad guitar, there are simply better options. The recent price drop supports that proposition. If you want to get a certain guitar, just get it (specially if money is not an issue). However, be aware that you might be adquiring something less than optimal and you might regret it.

[@sir.shreddington]

Round 2...FIGHT! (No offense taken, btw) - I can’t comment on the people that have complaints with custom shop orders without seeing specific examples. I do know that a lot of people are incredibly picky and wacky. I once sold a guitar to a guy who told me that he returned a Les Paul to Sweetwater because it was “defective” and after some goading, he told me that he didn’t like the way the bridge pickup was taped… - Yes, SS frets are more durable, as I mentioned, but that doesn’t mean they are “better” or “premium” for the reasons I also mentioned. The tonal qualities probably wouldn’t show up on a recorded track, but I notice a diff in how the strings ring acoustically, and I noticed a difference when plugged in on my friend’s guitar that he had re-fretted with SS frets. More importantly to me is the feeling, and I felt the difference immediately, and my other guitars with SS feel different to me. - The fret sprout has nothing to do with sub or less than optimal guitar. The build construction and finish work are top notch. Your argument is akin to saying a house purchase was sub-optimal because I had fix my flooring trim in my kitchen after the purchase, or that a car purchase is sub-optimal because I had to work on the rotors. Not to mention that it was reflected in my discount and it literally took me 10-15 min to fix. - Bridge durability, I stand by my argument in the video. How much more durable is it? Is it quantifiable? Does it REALLY make that much of a diff? Overall not likely. - Player skill does matter- whether people like it or not. Honing your craft is important and is a reflection of time spent bonding with the instrument. This also reflects how valuable your opinions and advice are with the craft and its tools. A perfect example is I’m going to take advice and opinions on the game of football more seriously from Patrick Mahomes, rather than the water boy or some little league coach.

[@friedrudibega6384]

It’s the quality of the metal and how it’s built that makes the German Floyd last longer. Maybe wear out the 1500 and put in an original.

[@TheManglerPolishDeathMetal]

18 years I own Jackson dkm the best gitar ever bridge is 580 or 90 I believe and it’s holding like evertune

[@patrickshannon4516]

Don't like the pop out trem bar mine fell out several times while playing it

[@sir.shreddington]

That sucks! What was the issue? Maybe the hole that the bar goes in can be tightened or adjusted? I haven't looked into it myself

[@patrickshannon4516]

@@sir.shreddington they need to at least magnetize it where it doesn't come out just from playing it that's what I would say wouldn't take that much to do that. If they do that then they owe me money for the idea because I came up with it first... LoL

[@sir.shreddington]

Better apply for that patent!

[@patrickshannon4516]

@@sir.shreddington how about every one they sell they got to give me ten cents that's not too much to ask for for a good Idea like that.. LoL 🤣 I'd probably be rich pretty quick don't you think?

[@sir.shreddington]

Hey dude, I was just jamming on it tonight and I noticed an allen head screw on the outside of the cavity hole for the trem bar. Try tightening it with your allen wrench and see if that fixes the problem 🤙

[@danielstryhanyn7278]

A good point regarding nickle vs stainless steel. I own a fender stratocaster and nickle feels great underneath my fingers. The pop in bar is something i prefer.

[@michaelanderson1587]

Good review, I like and respect your perspective. I have tried multiple guitars, and I keep going back to Jackson. It is about personal preference.

[@sir.shreddington]

Thanks for the comment, I appreciate it! I'm thinking I should do more vids like this.

[@ellocalcrew613]

Here in Canada they cost 3400$ . The virtuoso models are 2900$ . Crazy times …

[@sir.shreddington]

Yeah dude pretty soon the Indonesian stuff is going to be like $2k. Gotta love the central banks and our governments!

[@davidszep3488]

RG550 enters the chat. Jackson Soloist out....i did try a few jackson guitars it was a big disappoint for me, uncomfortable neck joint, unfinished neck sanding etc. Got instead an LTD MH 1000 Deluxe...its awesome.

[@sir.shreddington]

Lol love me some RGs. That’s a bummer you didn’t get along with the Jackson profile, I’ve been vibing with it lately. Such a fast profile. My fav profiles are from Charvel, Jackson, Ibanez and ESP.

[@davidszep3488]

@@sir.shreddingtonUnfortunately i've got small hands. But the RG550 felt way too thin even for my small hand🤣so i sold it. Cheaper Jackson guitars have screw neck, that was uncomortable for me. I did not try the more expensive ones with set-in/set-thru neck. The store didn't have a single one. I did compare them to similarly priced Ibanez guitars, Jacksons felt unfinished. Today, guitars are worst than i thought, (I was in 3 store, tried almost everything from 300usd-4000usd) lot of cheaper guitar now manufactured in china, guitars was made 2-3 year ago(made in Indonesia)felt way better. I have seen a deal on this used LDT MH-1000 Deluxe, it's a 2007 made in korea guitar, felt perfect in every way, easy fret access even at 24th fret. Slim neck but not WIzard III slim...glued neck but feels like neck-thru. Guitar was cheaper than my previous RG550, because it was used.🤔

[@TheRealxVincent]

"Anything with Grover Jackson's name" NO, I bought a cheap Chinese Jackson 7 string in January and the fretboard edges started chipping off in March... This is coming from someone who owns and loves an 89 Charvel/Jackson Soloist similar to the one in the video

[@sir.shreddington]

Haha sure maybe not the stuff made in South Eastern Asia or China. I don’t like stuff from there. I’ve had and sold really bad stuff from those areas too. I’ll take Mexican, Korean, Japanese stuff all day long

[@TheRealxVincent]

@@sir.shreddington I wasn't expecting anything great, just wanted something to try a 7 string. Was actually impressed at how poor the quality is. Seen crap hardware, no setup, etc. but the fretboard just falling apart? I want to get rid of it, but wouldn't sell it to anyone, so I'm just stuck with it unless I literally throw away a few hundred dollars.

[@sir.shreddington]

That sucks. There’s no excuse for that. I’ve spent a few hundred dollars on firewood too. Glue coming loose, frets literally falling out…horrible.

[@ferrousmcgarrus3431]

You paid $1800 for a Jackson in 2024? Lol.

[@sir.shreddington]

Bidenflation bro

[@mojopinish]

I think the USA soloists seem awesome. I haven't tried one, but that fretboard looks fantastic.

[@sir.shreddington]

It's a sweet guitar. One of the fastest necks I've ever played.

[@mojopinish]

@@sir.shreddington I bet it is! I'm definitely gonna try one if I get a chance.

[@GuitarsZnuff]

Nice video. I like nickel frets, but I do wear the frets down a little faster, it seems, than most. Playing 11s might have an effect on that, too. However, once I learned how to level and crown the frets myself and how to properly maintain the frets in between string changes really helps. That being said, I am intrigued by owning a guitar with ss frets just to experience what it's like owning one long term and if it will reduce the frets wearing for me. Nice work sir!

[@sir.shreddington]

Thanks! Learning to maintain my guitars was a great investment in a skill set that saves me a lot of $$$. I have a guitar with SS frets right now, and they are cool. You might like them better.

[@WorldsOkayestSorcerer]

I’m dying for a green Jackson DK2 or Dk3

[@jesusvillanueva4093]

The title on this video is legit. Dont listen to his stupid opinion

[@sir.shreddington]

lol I even said that in my video

[@kevinwhite6172]

Stainless is not that hard to work with. Luthiers use that as excuse to charge more money.

[@arroncusimano9169]

communist

[@sir.shreddington]

False

[@johnmchakeres]

two words: Jackson Indonesia.

[@kylezakk]

With those specs I'd expect your guitar to cost $800, not $1800. I've come across many crappy Jackson guitars. Also ss frets are objectively better than nickel frets and the tone difference is negligible.

[@sir.shreddington]

It's noticeable to me, but as I stated I could be delusional...Regarding the frets it's mainly a feel and maintenance thing for me.

[@Sigma77-n2u]

I went crazy on my guitar center card and bought the white pearl slimer and riviera blue I have no regrets! That neck is amazing! 😮 That trem is fine I don’t even tell the difference?? Bunch of pricks bro who can’t afford these guitars 😂

[@sir.shreddington]

Dude I love the white one! It has an almost flake or sparkle to it when you look closely.

[@Sigma77-n2u]

@@sir.shreddington yes it does it’s more of a pearl yellow white color !

[@racheladkins6060]

That guitar is far too expensive. Over £2000.00 are you rich? It’s not worth the money. But it’s not about that it’s about AMERICA. My Grover Jackson Model 6 from 1987 was £700.00

[@matthewcarter5993]

My SL3 plays better than my 3500 dollar Caparison Horus.

[@pauln6803]

​@@matthewcarter5993 "Better" is entirely subjective. I used to know someone with a PRS Custom 24, and whilst it sounded as beautiful as it looked, I was left completely cold by the wide/fat neck profile. He later traded it in for a Standard 22 with the "wide thin" neck. Didn't feel any better than a cheap Korean Epiphone. I had an Ibanez phase until I acquired a 1991 Japanese Jackson Soloist Pro - the neck on that is pure class. My USA SL2H shares an identical neck profile, showing how much input Jackson had with the Chushin Gakki factory. Ultimately, as long as the guitar can be set up to play with a good straight neck and no dead frets then the rest is personal preference.

[@metal1mark73]

This guitar is a complete rip off with lousy specs, quality has gone downhill for Jackson guitars!!! Facts not opinions!!!

[@NinjaMatt2201]

Yes! YES!!! Let the hate flow through you.

[@matthewcarter5993]

I have a 07 Rr3, a Caparison Horus and an Ibanez prestige rg 2550 and this SL3 smokes them all. It’s a great axe.

[@michaelhawkins6149]

What I find funny is people arguing about the tone of small practice amps. You're not going to sound like that Marshall stack with a 1x10 amp that has a million presets. 😅

[@sir.shreddington]

Very true! My first amp was that little Marshall with the 2" speaker that had the belt clip 😁