Jackson X-Series King V (KVXMG) in Satin Black Review

[@Joe24248]

I bought one of these in 2019 for 700, man good times when the market was nice lol but even now for 800+ these guitars are still worth the money! Active pickups, Floyd rose special, neck through construction and other great features.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Mine was $799. Forgot to mention that. There was some kind of Fender sale though, so normally I think they're charging $849. Which is high, but exactly like you said, still worth the money! Great guitar!

[@tankdarla637]

Killer, I love your Jackson demos

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Thank you!

[@scottreynolds5455]

I have the seven string. Blew my socks off! The fit and finish. I have never had a brand new guitar satisfy me. Yet like all guitars of this nature, need adjustment and yes a proper fret level etc. They are a large guitar for a V, am I wrong. I cannot stop hitting the tips in the hallway at my house.

[@vicktor_damian6612]

wonderful information brother..🔥🔥

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Thanks. My pleasure!

[@slayer91340]

I'm gonna get this right now along with an Army Drab JS32. I already have a JS32t Rhoads (I put in Seymour Duncan Dave Mustaine Live Wires) and a lefty Rhoads JS32 Satin Gray and I flipped the saddle position and strings, and a flipped and machined nut (because I play with strings reversed) and that one has Het Set EMGs I put in. Only real complaint is tuners, and on the floyd, it's the trash saddles that are the issue, they can't hang for long, but it did take some abuse before it started to give me issues. But I saw your other review on the JS32 then saw this one right after, since both are in my GC cart right now.

[@FelixCampbell-m2j]

Thanks for the vid now that I’m working looking for a good v to use for a blackened death metal band so really loved the vid will definitely picking one up

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

My pleasure. What is your band called?

[@FelixCampbell-m2j]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 still trying to form it I’m trying to go for a more of a mix of deicides scars of the crucifix meets gorgorths instinctus bestialis with some other influences as well

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@FelixCampbell-m2j best of luck \m/

[@florian_thrash]

What a beautiful Kelly Star in the background!

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Thanks \m/

[@JD-vj4go]

Congratulations man! Lovely guitar. I had the same issue on a Floyd fine tuner. If it's just really tight as mine was I fixed it with some gun oil. I put a couple drops on and let it sit, moved it a bit, couple more drops, wiped away excess and it's fine. Might be worth a try.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Thanks for the tip. I will try it!

[@duskern]

Great review on this! I initially watched your other review on the Jackson Pro KV. Made me so happy to hear that this model doesn't suffer from neck dive and is a bit cheaper. I've been struggling with my BC rich warlock NJ for years when playing live due to neck dive, and have decided to give a Jackson King V a chance. I am however still concerned about the neck dive, as I've seen other people complain about just that, when buying this specific guitar model. Perhaps it varies how the balance of the guitar is, depending on where it's made, even though it's the same model. I have no idea, but it does worry me a bit, as this is one of main reasons I want to try out something else, as well as just falling in love with the V shape :) I'm not really sure if there's another model that makes more sense to buy for me, but I haven't been able to find anything concrete about this issue during my research. I'm inclined to just try buying it online and hope for the best. I'm probably going to get a pretty newly produced model, since the only real seller I can find, which is thomann, seems to just have restocked them (their delivery has gone from 3 months to right away :)). What do you think, should I just give it a try and return it if it actually does have some neck dive? Thx again for the great reviews!

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Hey man, your concern is legit. I have two KVXMG's, this one in satin black and an older gloss black model from 2012, I think. Neither have neck dive, which surprised me when I bought the Pro King V. Yes, I say go for it and return it if you find it has neck dive. But I'd be surprised if it did. Best of luck! Let me know how it goes.

[@duskern]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 Thx for the reply Mike! Hearing this is a bit reassuring, so this leaves me positive for giving it a try :) I will look into it, and be sure to drop a few lines here when I get it :) Thomann is a German seller, and the largest in Europe for music equipment. Luckily they have a 30 day money back guarantee, but will probably be a hassle to get it sent back. Let's hope it doesn't come to that :) I don't have a local seller anywhere near my location that actually sells Jackson guitars, so Thomann is probably the only way to.

[@duskern]

I just bought it. A bit disappointed that right after I pulled the trigger, thomann upped the delivery time to 5+ weeks :-( let's see when it shows up.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@duskern that is disappointing.

[@duskern]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 I wrote them yesterday, and I just got a reply this morning. They have already prepared the order for shipping!!! Must have been a glitch in the system. My order status have changed to done, so it's going out today or tomorrow perhaps! Pretty cool mail to wake up to I must say! :)

[@WholeLottaBulldog]

Hey man, regarding the tight output jack thing: I've found that opening it up and gently bending back the main connection prong of the jack can slightly loosen it's feel. Id be trying that before replacing. Cheers, great review

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Thanks for the tip, I'll give that a try!

[@countzero5150]

The X series is the best bang for the buck Jackson makes. The only thing that separates them from the pro series is the floyd rose 1000 and seymour duncan pickups. And I say that as the owner of a pro series rr3 and Brandon Ellis kelly.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

I agree. I really like the X Series. I own several.

[@tonyruiz1976]

I have a Jackson slatxmgfr and that thing is awesome 👌 also had the king v gloss black with a Floyd and EMG Humbuckers, also had the RR 24 black and red and I sold them both and I definitely regret that 🤦‍♂️at least I still have the slatxmgfr and a monarch pro with Seymour Duncan blackout and it's a shredder as well 😀 ✌️🤘

[@thet740]

I got the 7-String version of this guitar (KVXMG7) and I like it. Mine has had its share of issues though and was no ''hole in one''. I had 3x frets start sprouting on the treble side (frets 10-12) causing massive unplayable buzz which had to be repaired by a tech (shortening the life of the frets). The Floyd Special already had a saddle strip out and had to be replaced. Now I have constant high strings breaking during tuning due to them getting stuck and binding in the locking nut. The strings don't sit in the center of the nut, but off to the side and raised, most likely from the awful angle of the headstock. It was my first Jackson and I really like the aesthetic of the guitar but damn, it definitely did not leave a great impression. The stock tuners are awful as you mentioned. The pickup selector switch is janky and makes noise/feedback when switching pickups. My last complaint is the 9V battery terminal for the EMG pickups. The 9V connector they're using is that floppy plastic material like from old guitar pedals and feels like it's about to break when replacing the battery. But when it is correctly setup and playing, I like it. Is it worth all the trouble though? Next time I want a V I'm going ESP.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Dude, that sucks! I wish I could say I'm surprised, but unfortunately, I'm not. Jackson QC is not what it used to be and it might be the same with other companies as well (I saw Kyle Bull just made a video about a Schecter that had some QC issues and I remember a couple years ago Solar had issues with cracking fretboards). Two of my Jacksons with Laurel fretboards have sprouted and two are perfect. It's made me hesitant to buy new guitars period, so that might be a good thing. But still, I feel your frustration. I hope quality craftsmanship is not a thing of the past. Thanks for commenting.

[@JonsterTheBondster]

​@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 I'm considering this guitar since it looks cool and all in all i love V's. I'd just replace the FRS. The only actual thing is uneven frets im worried. I play low action, Light Top, Beefy Bottom & the most awful thing i could imagine is frets playing same note after action is lowered in new guitar. I can live with NS-frets in this price point, but the neck must be straight and fretjob good. Usually Jackson necks are good even in JS-series. Recently I've had probs with even 2k guitars anyhow , like LTD RIPPED made in Korea by WMIC. Frets playing same note cuz of uneven frets. Same with Ormsby SX GTR 6 Carved Top Maya Blue made by WMIC Korea even after Australia Ormsby inspection.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@JonsterTheBondster in your case, I'd recommend buying one from a seller that accepts returns. My model is exceptionally well made, but that doesn't mean they are all like mine. Based on the experience I have had with mine, I'd say you have nothing to worry about!

[@JonsterTheBondster]

Yeah, Exactly 👍 You might get a lemon even in high price point category slipped past QC.

[@JonathanGarcia-os4zz]

Loved the video just got one and I totally loved your side by side at the end nice touch brother!!!!! 🤘🏽

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Thanks! How do you like yours?

[@christhayil8354]

A Jackson with a neck through joint and comes stock with EMG 85/81s for $800.00!!!! It's a no-brainer for any rock guitar player to have this in their arsenal!!!

[@Scourgeofmadness]

Great video , I bought one from Thomann and quality was fatal , bridge jack input all setup wrong I manage to setup and its a great guitar one of my favorite Jacksons

[@The_Apothecary]

Looks slick. Personally I’d prefer Macassar/Ebony fretboard. But I guess that darker laurel could grown on me 🤷‍♂️

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Yeah, ebony would look great. Unfortunately, that's not an option...

[@Druzgotor666]

I bought it this year and... the weakest point of this guitar is the bridge. I changed it to a Schaller and now it's a killer axe.

[@thecosmicpallbearer]

I've been weary about buying new Jacksons, especially seeing all the duds you keep getting, but I might have to add my 4th jackson the collection soon if they've stepped it up here. Dallas from Narcotic/ex Nile has been rocking a bunch of JS32's lately so hopefully the qc is back up at Jackson (my JS32 Rhoads didn't have issues though).

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Jackson QC has been an issue. However, the last 4 I bought from Sweetwater were top notch. I might just continue buying from them. Deals are nice, but well-made guitars are worth full price. I noticed Dallas playing a JS model too. I was wondering if that was a touring "beater". My experience with the JS models has not been good. But I know some guys have had good luck with them, and that's great! They are extremely affordable, and, like all Jackson's, look cool!

[@thecosmicpallbearer]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 I've seen Dallas playing those on his KZbin channel so maybe he has some good luck. I tend to order from Sweetwater about once a month. No one in town sells my DR strings or the picks I like, and they're great. I was possibly going to get a JS32 Dinky DKAM but if it's worth saving the extra for the X series King V I might buy this model. I'm a broke college dude, but I've never really played a bad JS32 (the guitar center near me is awful with setups). I own a twin pair of JS30's from the 90's I got for steals of deals and they're phenomenal for what I paid.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@thecosmicpallbearer I'll have to check out Dallas' channel. I didn't know he had one. Thanks for the recommendation. The JS models are pretty hard to beat if you're on a budget. If you can save up for an X Series model (through Sweetwater, of course!), then I think you'd be quite happy.

[@thecosmicpallbearer]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 thanks Mike. I was running over the math and with a Dimarzio X2N and Super Distortion and the JS32 if the pickups aren’t to my standard (my JS32 rhoads pickups do the job but really only sound good for more black metal which is my main style but if I’m playing death metal I want some more umph to the tone) which will put it around the same price so I’ll just figure it out when I get there. That said I’m also looking to learn to solder so it could be a good opportunity with it so who knows haha Dallas’ channel is the Narcotic Wasteland account but he’s posting NW playthroughs with the JS32’s. One is the JS32 Drab Green King V.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@thecosmicpallbearer yes, it's best to plan out the upgrades you want to do before purchasing. Smart thinking! If you go the new route, you'll likely spend about the same amount (or close to it) as you would on an X Series guitar. That being said, you can learn a lot from tinkering, modifying and upgrading a guitar. If you 're after the knowledge and experience, then certainly, go the JS route. Soldering is good to learn! I saw Dallas' channel. I noticed he's got a few (at least two), JS King V's. Looks like he put SD's in there, but I can't tell what other modifications he's made (I would image he probably upgraded the tremolo and tuners).

[@nikoka7843]

I have found glossy/painted necks unusable because of the stickiness and it slows down playing. How is it in that?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

That's a great question. I think you would like a satin finished neck. It has a "drier" feel to it.

[@nikoka7843]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 is it as fast as maple without paint or gloss?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@nikoka7843 yes, same ballpark.

[@oraxland]

Great review, I'm very undecided about this KVXMG or the RRX24 (always all black) what do you think?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

I like both of mine a lot. Are you talking about the blacked out RRX24 with reverse headstock? That one is slightly more metal. All things equal, I say go with the RRX24.

[@oraxland]

yes I mean that one :-) thanks for the answer and good evening!@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@oraxland my pleasure. Hope you like it!

[@Kris-ex6yk]

I have this guitar in green and I love it. I’m such a fan that I want to get another Jackson but with either Kelly body style or soloist. Do you know which models have the same type of neck profile? They don’t give that much detail on what the shape is. Cheers really appreciate the honest reviews of Jackson guitars.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

In my experience, the neck profiles vary from guitar to guitar. For example, I have two X Series Soloists, one with a spalted maple top and the other in winter camo finish. And they both have different neck profiles (even though you'd think they wouldn't). Whichever you go for (Kelly or Soloist), my advice is to buy from a seller that accepts returns, that way, if you don't like the neck profile, you can return it.

[@Kris-ex6yk]

Solid call. I wish they say c or u shape. Rhodes has much more of c shape to it. This guitar to me has a different shape that I personally favor. Thanks for replying.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@Kris-ex6yk my pleasure. Hope it helps!

[@stephenorme2831]

I prefer to play a tune o matic bridge cos Floyd bridges I find to be lower and more difficult to adjust my play style. How is the bridge on this with regards to your playing?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Great question. I find it quite easy to play, BUT I am more used to Floyd's than any other bridge style, as most of my guitars have them. Kinda the opposite of you.

[@coronachaz]

Would you say the neck profile is more thin on this than the KVMG you also reviewed that you said had a thicker neck? I love the Jackson Soloist paper thin neck.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

From what I remember, yes. Though I returned that Pro Series KVMG and could not do a side by side comparison. This satin KVXMG has a thin neck, but not the thinnest. My Japanese made Jacksons from the 90's have the thinnest profile in my collection.

[@coronachaz]

Thank you!

[@davinderbuttar9651]

My situation is that I bought a pre owned ESP Ltd arrow 401 for £600 however there is a loose connection for the 85! The guitar store I bought it from have this guitar as it’s closest to it though I must ask - how much thicker is the Jackson x kvxmg neck compared to the arrow?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

I had an Arrow once. I don't remember much about the thickness of the neck. However, I do remember that the guitar did not feel as comfortable when standing and playing than any of my pointy Jacksons. Also, the Arrow has a smaller nut, hence the strings are closer together at the nut and I did not like that at all. For those reasons I would recommend the KV.

[@therisendead7]

I totally agree about the tuners..Come on Jackson...lol. At least it comes with the EMG's. Seems like a really great live guitar, with the Poplar body. What tuning and string gauge are you using on this one?🤘

[@MadaraUchiha-oq9se]

I cant decide if i should buy the kvxmg or the rrx24 because i wanted a guitar in gloss black but the kvxmg is only available in satin black

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

The RRX24 is a badass guitar too. You can't go wrong with that one either!

[@MadaraUchiha-oq9se]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 thank you🫶

[@jack_1266]

I would love an X series KV like this but red or gloss black

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

They did make some gloss black models not too long ago. You might be able to find one used.

[@jack_1266]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 thanks for the info? Btw do you have any tips for people new to satin finishes?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@jack_1266 don't use any products on the finish (like wax or spray polish). Just use a clean microfiber cloth and gently wipe it down dry.

[@luzid_2154]

Nice Video man. I only have a Ibanez S521 and i love Everything from Thrash Metal to Death Metal. I play since 2,5years. Whould you recommend this guitar to me?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Yes, absolutely.

[@vitalijaaskelainen5024]

Hello,I have a question,which is better to buy Jackson js32t king v followed by an upgrade Seymour Duncan or buy Jackson KVXMG King V with EMG?Not pro version.

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Depends on what kind of bridge you want. If you don't need a Floyd Rose, or have other guitars that have one, get the JS model and upgrade. If you prefer Floyd-equipped guitars, buy the KVXMG. Hope that helps!

[@vitalijaaskelainen5024]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 I get it. Thanks.there are only options with floyd rose.

[@_rootsman]

hi, great demo - i'm seriously considering adding one of these to my collection. can i ask something that i dont believe you covered in the vid - does this guitar suffer from neck dive at all?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Great question. It does not.

[@_rootsman]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 ok, so mine arrived this morning - and i have not stopped smiling since i opened the box. its beautiful. it plays wonderfully and sounds amazing (my first time using active pickups, the EMGs sound great). and its perfectly balanced! 😀

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

@@_rootsman glad to hear that man!

[@grim2337]

How is the floyd? Does is it hold the tune when using it?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

I haven't had any issues. But I'm a light to moderate trem user.

[@the3588dawn]

does this guitar have a little neck dive?

[@MadaraUchiha-oq9se]

Which straplocks should i buy for this guitar?

[@davidbojarski2423]

I bought an RRX24 i noticed some of my fine tuning are tight and the input jack is very tight as well but I'm looking for the KVXMG V and wondering how much in Canada and is it worth it

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Well that's exactly what the video is about!

[@HugoEM]

I have the same guitar do you know how to remove the knot?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Knot? Do you mean the nut?

[@HugoEM]

@@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076 knobs or volume controls ….

[@matteogalluffo4834]

Does it have Push-pull?

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

No

[@molochfrolics8443]

that warthog? is rad !

[@N3cromqnceR92]

Scott Ian is that you??

[@MorrisChannel4]

I think we are getting into that time in tech where the Floyd rose trem system could use a renovation. New design, new system and a way without requiring springs. Idk, something I think is around the corner

[@stickyplatelet]

Worst guitar I’ve bought - out of the box first time I used the what is the lowest grade/brand Floyd Rose- two strings popped off from the bridge, the tone control just freely spins, and the jack sounds like there’s popcorn in it. It just does nothing but crackle, and it will not stay in tune, no matter what I’ve done to it. I had to replace the bridge and nut TOTAL QC FAIL on jackson! Also it nose dives like no other V I’ve had

[@mikefrombloodofthewolf7076]

Sorry to hear that. You couldn't return it?

[@danielmoore2577]

And never showed up the damnit guitar