Yamaha Revstar - Is the Professional Worth it when the Standard is this Good?

[@opalmills2914]

Crazy that the pickup switch changes the guitar from the professional to the standard and back.

[@timnorris4458]

😂

[@jakollee]

Trick photography!

[@Arthur_My_Dear]

And that it makes no difference

[@basildog007]

Great concept!!! The guitar total switch! Needs better technology.

[@MajorUpgrade]

That is brave of Yamaha, indeed!

[@Bangkokguitar]

I really believe that Yamaha has produced one of the very best guitars in the industry, Amazing sounding guitar in so many ways.

[@hakarl_]

I really hope that Gibson, and perhaps Tokai, are incentivized to bring more P90-loaded models to the market with Revstar's success

[@Bangkokguitar]

@@hakarl_ Yeah, isn't that weird! Some of the most recognizable Gibson guitarists have been replacing their pickups with P9-s for the past 15 years, Phil X being probably the most notable, Then Studio meisters like Tim Pierce always have one lerking in their studio Arsenal! As far as Tokai, I find them great no matter what! I think all Tokais, (for the most part) are very unique sounding and hold their own, So yeah, I would exclude or forgive them if they didn't P90 it. LOL

[@10sassafras]

That’s odd that you say that. I sat down with several models and found the weight unbalanced, unlike teles and strats. I would have thought Yamaha could do better these days.

[@garycartwright4860]

@@10sassafras it’s massively balanced. It’s one of the best things about the guitar.

[@10sassafras]

@@garycartwright4860 Fair enough. The ones I tried fell away to the body side like a 335. Perhaps they balance on a strap when standing.

[@russellcameronthomas2116]

I just received my Sunset Revstar Pro with P90s. Perfect fit and finish, and great factory setup, though I did lower the bridge slightly to get better action higher on the fretboard. (no tools required). About the Boost knob: I find that it is *incredibly* valuable addition when used in combination with volume knob and also tone. I play mostly into clean or edge-of-breakup amp (e.g. Fractal Audio's simulation of Dumble Overdrive Special, Robben Ford), with volume knob set to about 50%. The "2" and "4" pickup switch positions create a thinner, more twangy or woody tone that can be used on their own or thickened + deepened by using Boost, while also *reducing* the volume knob just a bit. This results in a very interesting range of tones that resemble an amplified acoustic guitar, for example. So the trick is to *adjust Boost + volume + tone + pickup position SW in combination* to dial in your tone, and not just any one of these in isolation. Regarding 5 position switch: positions 2, 3, and 4 have much less hum than positions 1 and 5, because the two pickups are opposite in phase. With a 3 position switch, you would only have one position that is "low hum". This might be especially valuable in live performance settings. Regarding Pro vs Standard -- with Pro you get a wonderful hard case (value = a few hundred $) and attention to all the fit + finish details, in addition to what ever difference there may be in play-ability and tone. Clearly, the Standard is a great guitar and great value, but you may need to try several (or many) before you find a specific guitar that has the fit and finish you are looking for. Bottom line: The reason I bought the Revstar was to have a unique palette of tones, different from the standard Strat, Les Paul, Tele sounds, etc. The reason I spent the extra $ on the Pro: I plan to keep it forever.

[@SteveConkie-t6r]

There are so many different players and types of music, amps and mixes, that nobody can say definitively one way or another. You might never use it and it might become a vital part of another player's sound. At least it is easy to change it. JayLeanordJ's review is excellent and from the way he plays, the boosted P90s sound a lot like humbuckers. I was quite surprised by how much I preferred the P90 version to the hum bucker version in all but one position. kzbin.info?search_query=revstar+p90+vs+humbucker

[@davidgood6744]

I have had a RSS02T in Hot Merlot for just about one year, and I love it. I think those people who are willing to pay extra for the Professional‘s small upgrades will be happy, and those of us who are getting almost the same guitar for a whole lot less will be just about as happy. I think the Profession throws a bright spotlight on just how good a deal the Standard models really are.

[@aitken1965]

Good analysis

[@justinwilliams8832]

Couldn’t agree more. I have the “hot merlot” standard as well. Really like it a lot. There was nothing to justify moving to the professional. Fun guitar. Great to play something less traditional.

[@johnphillips8064]

I work in a shop that sells these guitars. your analysis is spot on.

[@nethbt]

Recently, YAMAHA just had a price hike on their REVSTARS, but still, the value is unbeatable, most especially the Standards

[@WunHitWonder]

I've played both plugged and unplugged and can honestly say both are stellar. Not sure if you got an off standard or not, but the standard I played was flawless. I honestly could not tell them apart, but if I paid over a grand for the pro, I might want to find differences to justify the price also. Another thing to keep in mind is there are likely more standards produced than professionals as the price points are pretty far apart. So there is much more room for error on a larger run of standards as opposed to a very controlled production in a top-shelf facility the pros are made in. All in all, both are great. Selling some rigs to buy one, but cannot decide if I want moonlight blue or swift blue. Love em both. If I go with the swift, I'd just grab a standard though. They're AMAZING for what they are. I played an RSE and was blown away at how it felt, played, and sounded for the cash. Nice rigs Yamaha is puttin out.

[@jorgerodrigomartins]

Pickups are exactly the same

[@ub59]

I bought the Pro Revstar (Humbucker model) a year ago and love it! It was very well set up right out of the box. I see the comparison to the Standard as more of an entry level youth vs a bit more experienced middle age kinda thing. I didn't mind spending that much more on the Pro because the real comparison to me is with the Gibson Les Paul. I feel my Pro will stand up on level ground with any Les Paul -- but at half the price. Just tonight I was playing it with one of John's clean custom Helix presets from a previous vid and the tones were heavenly, though my playing isn't nearly as heavenly. 😉

[@tonepilot]

Thanks for doing this. I’ve been interested in these models for a while now.

[@trenthogan4212]

It should be mentioned that the professional comes with a fantastic hardshell case.

[@Jeremya74]

Yeah I wonder why he didn't talk about that because for a guitar business,the hardshell case is typically 20% of the price of the guitar

[@soundeducation5554]

Also, I think professional sounds just a little better. Standard sounds a little thinner and more bland.

[@RealRiffRaf]

I got my Revstar two months ago ❤ I traded it for an Epiphone Les Paul Lazarus because I was looking for something different and man this guitar did that for me. I really hope people start trying more Yamaha guitars, they are doing a great job 👏

[@RByrne]

I played few of each this weekend, back to back, and the differences are minor, but the Pro is definitely a step up. Tones aside, the finishbis better, frets, wood, etc. Not by much, but minor differences mean major changes to the construction, which means more money. If I was to buy one, which I likely will, itll be the Pro in the dark green.

[@NonchalantWalrusParty]

I am a complete beginner and bought the cheaper Element. I don't have any reference point but feel like I hit the jackpot of beginner electric guitars.

[@ratatatuff]

You know what I would have given to have such a guitar back in the days when I was a beginner? The Element is not just a beginner guitar, it punches way above it's price point. I'd say it's even comparable to upper mid-range guitars. If you take care of it it could last you a lifetime and accompany you up to pro level.

[@Gypsy-Brown]

You're not wrong. The Rev is easily as good as its best competitor if not better, and way better than most others at the same price. I can't really suggest an alternative at all so rest easy knowing you totally nailed it this time fo' sure!

[@austin33785]

You did hit the jackpot.

[@cubistone]

The revstar ancestor, the SG2000, cost more than Gibson LP Custom when it debuted in the late 70s as Carlos Santana played it heavily in his albums during that period.

[@Jurgen-po1ym]

Hear the moonflower album. On the song europa Carlos let his Yamaha SG 2000 sing and cry. A Heavy guitar with a brass plate under the bridge.

[@DJCJ999]

I quite fancy a Revstar as an alternative to a SG.. They are both high fret access guitars and have a very rock and roll sound and look.

[@SeanOHanlon]

I have never been a fan of the SG. The Revstar proves that you don't need to spend thousands of dollars to get a very good guitar.

[@Gypsy-Brown]

I wouldn't put the Revstar in the same category as the SG I don't think, they are very different guitars. The SG does what it does and does it fantastically especially if you're a bluesy, rocky type and of course by rocky I mean all the way to the Iommi brand of rock. The Yamaha tho whilst being way more versatile and tonally more adventurous doesn't quite reach the snarl and bite that (imo) is often required from the SG wielder. But then, who am I to advise? Ultimately that could all be codswallop to anyone else I suppose. We all got our own ears and our own likes / dislikes thankfully. That's what makes playing guitar and indeed music in general so exciting and awesome in the first place! May as well get both!! 🙂

[@MrCode152]

I love my Revstar! It became my favorite guitar in only 2 days after I bought it. I bought the Standard, because of the price... But I haven't regretted it. I tested the standard and the pro, one after the other, I was able to bring my practice/recording/live equipment to the store and I realized that the standard was basically a better deal than the pro. After a trip to the luthier, it's even better! I love everything about this guitar: the satin finish, the weight, the comfort, the sound, the focus boost, the pickups, .... everything!

[@johnnathancordy]

Yeh - I really appreciate them letting the workmanship stand for itself and using moreorless the same spec - means at either price you can get a very decent guitar

[@keithb5612]

Can I ask what your Luthier did to improve the stock Revstar? Cheers

[@MrCode152]

@Keith B If I remember correctly: slight straightening of the neck, oiling of the fingerboard, tightening of the tuning machines, lowering of the tailpiece, lowering of the bridge, adjustment of the height of the pickups, adjustment of the intonation and change of the strings... all for 40€ :)

[@keithb5612]

@@MrCode152 Many thanks. You got a very good price for luthier work performed at €40. I did think that the break angle of the tailpiece to bridge was quite high in the video. Goes to show that a good set up is really worth it for better playability. Cheers for your reply. I was thinking about a purchase.

[@sumgui6010]

​@@keithb5612 to be fair it's most likely that @MrCode152 is likely talking about a guitar tech, not a luthier. Typically speaking that work is done by techs while luthiers are busy building instruments.

[@bernardmacseoin1113]

Ok, so you're one of the finest guitarist on YT, your arpeggio runs are so musical & technically flawless even Eric Johnson probably subscribes to your channel. Please cut an album, instant fame ! Careful with that axe........, John.

[@ksharpe10]

I agree!!!!!!!!!!!!! ALBUM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@danielgreenberg4751]

I agree as well. John is the man! 😎🤘🏼

[@tornghost]

Well, what about Mark Kelly's Marathon? Doesn't that count?!

[@ToneDeth.]

he has an album on Spotify. it is called Seven Good Days A Year

[@ksharpe10]

@@ToneDeth. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!

[@ptrisonic]

I turnmed away for a second and swore that heard a Soprano Sax playing! Great stuff, John.

[@CharLessMajor7Music]

Final got mine and after playing the standard for 2 days with some few adjustments to my liking, Im already in love with it. The playability is amazing and the craftsmanship isn’t that bad after being spoiled with Suhrs.

[@ReinoRankaisija]

The mid boost is my favorite part of the guitar. Makes the bridge pup sound like a humbucker and the 2-position with high gain and mid boost on is amazing. It doesn't sound good clean but it wails with some fuzz or classic metal gain on it.

[@jonathantretheway3610]

I have the two humbucker standard and really love it. It did need a setup. The nut slots were a bit high causing some intonation issues especially with open chords. Once I got it setup it plays and sounds amazing.

I would go for the Standard all day long!! Great value! Great sounds!!

[@shaolinshoppe]

I'm surprised you managed to open the box with such a small knife

[@ndog5150]

I know Im missing the point of this video, but I could listen you play for days... soooooo rad!

[@DanIvyOffical]

I have the same standard that’s in the video and it is arguably my number one. I also have a gibson lp custom and American Strat among some others..

[@chrisgmurray3622]

They sound very close but the Professional rings with a little more clarity, whereas the standard sounds a teeny bit more muddy.

[@JohnOShaughnessy]

agreed. I can hear the difference. I own an RSS20 and if I pick up a professional I can immediately hear a difference. I it just that bit more refined and solid

[@LogicalQ]

Agreed. There is just a singing immediacy to the tone of the pro. It’s crispy… the standard is just a bit less sensitive.

[@vvcv__00]

Oh, man, I was dying of laughter while watching you open the guitar box with that baseball bat sized knife. Absolutely brilliant!!!!! Hahah!

[@wolfgangniemann2572]

It‘s the „crocodile dundee“ Model :-)

[@AlanSmitheeman]

That's not a knife, it's a short sword! Holy cats!

[@andyt5559]

Having been a fan of Yamaha guitars for years, and had many, an SG1000S, a 600 series, and about 5 budget models! when that came out! I hated it! it grew on me though, and ordered a matt black 1 from the 1st series, and loved it! The quality, finish was amazing fantastic neck! Sound absolutely amazing the P90 version! Recently got a desertburst the 1/2 and half finish, amber on the bass side, tobacco on the treble! same quality build wise loved the pearliod buttons, the satin finish on the neck is amazing, I wouldn't say as fat as my Eastman Sb59v or its junior brother, but it's a handful, a P90 version again and I do agree, I prefer the dry switch, opposed to the boost! even like the inlays! What's the difference? Its not made in Japan and I will admit those are virtually flawless instruments, but I have that guitar, with a quality gigbag rather than a hardshell case, both my Eastman's did! But it's fantastic guitar for that price, my only gripe, a volume for each pickup would make it!

[@bend1499]

You'd think that they were crazy with the FG9 too until you realize that the build quality rivals Collings and other boutique makers. Beautiful intro piece btw.

[@ditchgator1]

Personally have the Standard and believe Yamaha have produced a precision instrument that feels great and sounds killer. Definitely punches above its weight. From clear cleans to soaring waves with just a turn of the volume knob...😎👍👍 Thanks Yamaha 😎

[@shield400]

I sold my LP Standard to get the Yamaha RSP20X and I am so happy I did. No regrets!

[@chrisbourne4687]

I have a p90 standard and honestly it’s straight out the box flawless. Plays so well

[@marcinpierechod3838]

this would be my firs p90 guitar 🙂

[@zacharysmithingell5460]

I have the standard in swift blue, exactly as your have here, and it's my favorite guitar.

[@zacharysmithingell5460]

I also picked up an hx stomp, in large part because of this channel, so thank you!

[@TheThunderwars]

The only thing that matters for me in a guitar is fret works, and then if the necks feels good overall (even though I never hated a neck really ... Maybe some string spacing I don't quite like). Anything else can be easily changed without much hassle. I once bought a 1k€ shecter that had a high fret. The guitar was beautiful but I hated it, it didn't want to go below 1mm of action at the high E (12th fret measurement), while I set up my guitars from 1.5mm low E to 0.5mm high E. I have no issues leveling frets for guitars I build, or for cheaper guitar ( I bought back my first guitar, an AX30 Ibanez, just for the sake of making it great, fret levelling, and full Les Paul electronics, including adding 2 pots that the body can barely accomodate to have the Les Paul Layout). But when the guitar is above 500€, I do expect the frets to be levelled. And I certainly expected rhe shecter to be. If the revstar has leveled frets at 500-600€ then I wouldn't go above that price for the pro version. A great set up can make a cheap guitar very pleasing to play, as my old trusty ax30 or my old squier strat. Even though I have some expensive guitars, playing guitars you are not afraid to fiddle with is priceless. I've done 300+ people gigs with my ax30, just because set up is all I need, and if I don't sound good, it's because I suck, and it's not the guitar's fault.

[@EzraMF]

I recently acquired the swift blue standard and it’s the best guitar I’ve ever owned!

[@timnorris4458]

How long did you wait for it?

[@chasbee]

@@timnorris4458 I waited 9 months for my merlot standard with p90s from Sweetwater.

[@EzraMF]

@@timnorris4458 Only a few weeks. I got it from Sweetwater. Got pretty lucky.

[@BradyA1124]

This is a comparison between the Yamaha Revstar Standard and the Yamaha Revstar Professional. The Revstar Standard is made in Indonesia, while the Revstar Professional is made in Japan. There are some minor differences in build quality, such as the back color and the feel of the neck finish on the Standard. The Standard's neck humbucker is darker in tone, but the bridge pickup is similar. The fretwork is good on both, but the Standard's rosewood fretboard feels a bit drier. The tailpiece is essential for resonance. Both have similar neck dimensions, but the Professional may feel slightly thicker. The mid-boost push-pull feature on both guitars is not a significant addition. The satin finish, stainless steel frets, and overall feel of the Indonesian-made Standard are impressive. The Standard's nut cut is slightly sloppier than the Professional's. Both guitars have a similar weight. The Standard is a great option and offers an excellent value compared to the Professional. It's impressive how close the Standard comes to the more expensive Japanese-made counterpart.

[@ragnakak]

AI slop

[@davidhallowell3457]

Timely. I just ordered a standard. One dealer told me Yamaha may be discontinuing at least part of this line (?). John could make a bit of fishing line on a broomstick sound pretty good.

[@robertpurdy4452]

If they do discontinue some of them I am sure glad I picked up my lefty Standard while I had the chance. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine, and yes, his playing is joyously good.

[@timnorris4458]

I agree... wonderful player.

[@baltipszlr3398]

Did they tell you what part of the line??

[@lueyteledeluxe7457]

The Pro has a real juiciness of tone when you dig in. The Standard doesn't quite have that depth or complexity. Its still good....but a little more rounded, like the tone knob is rolled back a third. I imagine the main difference would be how it feels to play, in the hands.

[@leecampbell2347]

I agree with this.

[@bluebirdsigma]

They're a business. Capitalizing on price snobs will always be a sound strategy.

[@nedludd3641]

please do an episode with a looper pedal and two other pedals? pls show how to build up a simple noodle

[@garyrindt9863]

I've had an SBG 2100 since 1985. I've bought two other guitars since then, but still go back to the Yamaha

[@garycartwright4860]

I own a standard p90 in hot merlot. And it’s absolutely sublime. Bridge pick up is a bit tinny. But I’m going to change them out anyway. It’s getting a new bridge, graph teq nut, and locking tuners as well.

[@DaringDan]

Fantastic compare/contrast. Both are such fantastic guitars. I'd go with the standard for sure. Yamaha really are top tier with this and their acoustic guitars. Heck, even in the budget/beginner space, I've heard very little complaints about Pacificas either. Cheers, homie.

[@thehomienicked8208]

They make really excellent basses too!

[@b10t3rr0r]

Dude went full Yamaha. First Helix, then Catalyst and now Revstar ;D

[@budgetguitarist]

Honestly, the Standard is a damn good guitar. The Revstars are cool - they play great and they sound great. I dig the body shape. Honestly, the only thing I don't like are the block inlays. I'd like them bigger, but that's cosmetic. The one thing I would say is that I've played both and while the Standard is what I'd buy, I did like the Pro better.

[@schrubbel]

It's funny how the personal tastes differs so much. I really really hate big block inlays and i do really really love the inlays from the Revstar series!

[@bostonbesteats364]

Thank you, a question we've been wondering about.

[@VideoDetection]

I have both versions of the Standard, (HB & P90s) and love em both!

[@dustinglass]

Do you like one more than the other?

[@flowwang4591]

what colors did you choose for each？

[@VideoDetection]

@@dustinglassI guess I like the P90 one best as its a different tone to the other guitars I have. I like them both though and I like the fact the setup is identical and its easy to change between the two.

[@VideoDetection]

@@flowwang4591The P90 one is in sunburst and the humbucker version in black.

[@penguinista]

I have both. Yes, the pro is totally more than twice as good. The sustain is amazing and you can truly feel the whole guitar ringing through your stomach while playing lead with no amplification on the pro version. Also the electronics are much better. The pro neck also has a matte finish on the back that allows my hand to slide without squeaking better than any guitar I have played. I waited for it for a year and was not disappointed. I love the entry level one and am loathe to part with it, but the pro version knocks it out of the park in many ways. I have the humbucker version.

[@dustinglass]

Is there a difference in the neck between the pro and standard?

[@79blackbelt]

The Element, Standard, and Pro all have the matte finish on the neck.@@dustinglass

[@fajar1629]

i love a mellow sound guitar more than a slightly bright one. the standard one caught my attention here. the pro has broader sound so it has more complex and versatility. but for me the standard one is like a not very beautiful girl but i'll always falling in love when she sing with her warm voice.

[@FransvandenBergeMuziekschuur]

Yamaha's build quality is amazing. If you can afford it get the Professional. If they say there is a difference. Then there is. Yamaha does not mess around. Usually a standard does not get the block inlays. It looks like they are very identical. I would be happy with either. Japanese workmanship is incredible. They make them very proudly. I would proudly own it.

[@lomoholga]

Truth is people who are saying things like “oh the professional sounds clearer and the standard is a bit muddled etc etc etc” are hearing with their eyes In a blind test with the same mic etc ppl couldn’t reliably differentiate People- usually the actual differences are not going to be sonic but rather be features that the player can enjoy

[@chrisjs6123]

I've got the bass version of the professional- in a similar way there's also an Indonesian version that looks pretty much identical. The quality difference is pretty big - neck feel, huge improvement with the quality of the metal- knobs, machine heads, bridge. Ultimately they sound pretty much identical and play similarly. As you say, horses for courses- i know i'd be getting a great bass in the Indonesian version but the Japanese wasn't crazy expensive and it's just more stable, better set up, and feels nicer to play so was worth it to me.

[@scoobydoo936]

I didn’t try the Rev Star but I always struggled keeping electric Yamaha guitars in tune. I don’t buy guitars to instantly mod them, they got to be playable out of the box. However, I always recommended their acoustic guitars to my students, they are outstanding.I hope they’ve sorted their tuning issues out.

[@123thof]

My little Pacifica 012 had tuning problems for a week or so, but somewhere along the line it stopped needing to be tuned. Somehow, the strings improved with use, for which I am grateful, because changing strings for me is equivalent to a Mr. Bean episode.

[@SuperClydeJ]

Now that’s a Box Cutter!

[@Zundfolge]

I think because of the carbon fiber bits in the Professional, where its really going to shine over the Standard is after 10 years of hard gigging. I bet the pro will be more stable over time. Still not sure if it'll be enough to justify the cost difference. Yamaha has really done well for with the Standard.

[@MixableRat90]

both standard and pro have carbon fiber body and back

[@johnnathancordy]

The Carbon Fiber is in the body of the Professional, but NOT in the Standard - both necks have CF reinforcement though

[@steveferry4922]

There is additional strengthening in both the neck and body of the Professional. And it comes with a hardshell case, whereas the standard comes with a bag.

[@AchtungMonkey]

After wanting to try the guitar for ages I got a hold of one this weekend. Unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed, I did not like the plastic feel of the neck( just not right for me) and found the fretboard very scratchy feeling. The pickups sounded very nice but I could not get comfortable with the neck. For reference, I enjoy maple Fender necks,

[@jojojojojojojojojojojojob]

i have never bought a yamaha product that sucked or with quality issues.. one of the best brands on earth..

[@goport]

I bought the standard RSS20L (Blue left hand HB version) in April 22 and the back and neck on mine have the dark mahogany finish with the wood grain clearly visible on the back. I don't get the mid boost - I assumed it was for "jazz" type tones. I also don't like the push pull pot which feels flimsy. Mine has standard humbuckers and they do feel like the treble is rolled off a little. But the guitar is great to play and the fretwork is excellent. Have you considered investigating the (bargain basement) at the Harley Benton Fusion range of guitars? I got the fusion T and it has SS frets, locking, staggered tuners and its my guiltiest pleasure right now - by far my favourite pick up and play guitar and incredible value at £250. I'd be intrigued to see how thy compare next to Sire.

[@robertpurdy4452]

I have a lefty Standard in Swift Blue as well and I agree that the highs are a bit muted, but it is one of my favorite guitars to play and I honestly have been a Yamaha fanboy since 1979 - pianos, euphoniums, motorcycles, stereo receivers, integrated amps, my main mixer, etc.....

[@goport]

I am not a fanboy ..... but I have a Line 6 Helix LT, A 4 channel mixer, a Steinberg UR44C and Cubase Pro 12 so I guess I might be one yet. I do like the Revstar but I wish they did the tailpiece/P90 version in left handed. Fingers crossed for the future.

[@Screaming-Trees]

I can't believe no one has mentioned that crazy looking knife you used to cut the tape on the box :)

[@Mike-rw2nh]

Thanks for this upload. It will culminate in my (placing) an order and waiting 12 months.

[@timnorris4458]

eewww. That's why I haven't ordered a Standard.

[@Mike-rw2nh]

@@timnorris4458 Totally understandable.

[@WeekendWarriorGuitars]

I'm so close to pulling the trigger on a standard w/ P90s...just wish I could find a place to try one out in person.

[@pkdude5334]

I would take this over a PRS SE all day long. I had an SE and it had trouble staying in tune. Sounded good but it honestly my Epi LP feels and sounds much better.

[@marksystemed4678]

I have the standard P90, same colour, excellent guitar. I even kept the cardboard tag in the shape of the revstar and I am normally not one for keeping things like that. This guitar is a keeper, I had to wait 6 months to receive mine. Received it in November 2022.

[@emdblues]

How much did you pay for it?

[@freshdiliao3635]

what do you think about the bridge height

[@marksystemed4678]

@@emdblues 777 euros with padded Yamaha Gigbag.

[@marksystemed4678]

@@freshdiliao3635 it's good for me

[@MajorUpgrade]

Nice "letter opener" John

[@zoomzoom3950]

Same for my Ibanez PS guitars. I have a PS10 (Made in Japan, Prestige), PS120 (Made in China) that's 1/3 of the price of the PS10; and two PS60 (Made in Indonesia) that are 1/3 of the price of the PS120. Both the PS10 and PS120 are set necks, the PS60 are bolt on. I can tell more of a difference between the PS120 and the PS60. The differences between the PS10 and PS120 are minimal, not so much that the PS10 is worth 3x the price of the PS120 IMO/IME. The fit and finish, playability, attention to detail, setup, etc. are very good. The PS10 and PS120 both have the same Seymour Duncan pickups. In retrospect, I could be happy with PS120 (and PS60)... That said, my PS10 is my favorite guitar, but I could have three more PS120 (almost) instead. 😁

[@tigerbelly2152]

I got the revstar. Amazing guitar. Even Chris Buck uses it!

[@jameslanclos568]

I would have liked to hear some metal sounds through the Revstar.

[@ihadtomakethisbs]

My standard had a high fret and needed the fret ends cleaned, plus the nut had a sharp edge and as you said, the neck finish had flaws. Super minor but that extra detail is where I think all the extra money goes, because it's not like Indonesian guitar builders couldn't make it perfect *if you paid them enough!

[@MartinStrang]

Any high end instrument by Yamaha is worth it, Guitars, Bass, Drums, Piano, etc. But guess what, their standard instruments are also worth it! What I mean is that Yamaha is a very good instrument manufacturer for pros and cons people starting .

[@GraniteSoundtrack]

Played the full Japanese made one with P90s. It was great. Felt great, sounded superb. Looked amazing. Much better guitar than the SE DGT, which felt and sounded like a mid priced Epiphone. I know the Yamaha was more expensive, but people called the SE DGT “so good it was pretty comparable to the core model.” Which, I say is not true at all.

[@CharLessMajor7Music]

Ow thanks for this opinion. I’ve been wondering about it.

[@Bredaxe]

I've been saving for the standard version for a year.. Every time I get the money, sometime comes up like medical bills, or the kids need something.

[@siva2610]

I can't relate, but I feel your pain, mate. I hope I'll be able to buy one before I start feeling lonely, get married, and have kids.

[@giosal8822]

John, you're referring to the single coils as humbuckers, is that intentional?

[@Arthur_My_Dear]

Would love to see a comparison of the old RS502/T with the new RSS02. To compare build and feel, but mainly dry switch vs focus mode

[@kungfuseadog]

Wow, both sound great. I do think the Pro has a bit more high end, and I assume frets/neck feel a bit nicer. Definitely diminishing returns there. Depends how much you want to spend and how many guitars you want to have ;)

[@kkrekula]

Just beware if you live in a dry climate that the Indonesian made guitars (no matter of brand) often get fret sprout after some time in such environmant. I doubt that the MIJ ones get it,

[@johnnathancordy]

Hey Kenneth! That's a good tip for folks to watch out for - thanks for sharing

[@bessiebraveheart]

I have an early Bigsby one. The build quality is top notch.

[@billylongley9580]

I have a 2016 model rs502t picked up used . And I have to say if your on a budget.. it’s the best out there for versatile playing.. I got mine for 350 with the Yamaha gig bag ..

[@billreppas]

I think the professional series are one of the best guitars out there.

[@danolson-bang4464]

Wondering how the Element compares to the Standard? Without the Element being given the JNC treatment, hard to tell if I like it or don't, honestly. These things are never in stores, it seems so we definitely depend on great players demoing them!

[@jackjacky8105]

I own a yamaha pacifica, I own gibson les paul, charvel, dean, and a fender stratocaster, but the yamaha is my favourite , the neck is the best, the feeling is the best and the sound is the best, I bought it 780 euro .

[@Bushradical]

shit! this guy can play!

[@Bredaxe]

This guy can make that damn thing wheep.

[@ethanwilt9896]

My next guitar will be the Pro. Love love love it! Nice job on the video!

[@aznsensation44]

Honestly I only got the Professional because there were a few finishes that were exclusive to the Professional line like the Moonlight Blue finish. If it were not for the finishes I would have gone for the Standard

[@nalukeko]

Got Standard with humbuckers, and would have gotten a P90 Professional, but couldn't deal with the neck shape. I had it reshaped. Same thickness, but less shoulder. Very comfy now, but wouldn't want to do that to a Professional. Also threw Grover locking 502N on it. Agree on the mid-boost, I'll probably turn the push/pull into a coil split and loose the weight of the transformer.

[@Chris.Biard42]

Thank you for this great review, I'm really tempted to get one of these guitars. However can we find somewhere tutos and informations for the set up of that guitar? Thanks for answer 🙏

[@vlj1133]

Crazy, that in the very beginning A/B comparisons we can hear your Professional model making an audible static noise every time you switched positions with the five-way. Meanwhile, the Standard's switching is dead silent, as it should be. I say it's crazy because I own that exact Professional model, the Swift Blue, and my switch did the same thing. Drove me batty, especially when I was using distortion. That static noise was really bad then. Yamaha replaced the super switch with a higher quality item (not their own) under warranty, and now everything is perfect. I was shocked to hear your Professional model exhibiting the exact same issue.

[@thepatientguitarist1739]

Thanks for the comment and back story. I heard the same thing. Totally unusable. I'm glad John left it in the video, and I'm glad you indicated Yamaha took care of you.

[@daviddalziel884]

Only managed to play a Standard with humbuckers and wasn’t happy with the rough feel of the neck . That may smooth out with playing as did my PRS Silver Sky SE which felt like a £ 150 Pacifica when I got it . The push pull tone switch made the humbucker quite dark so maybe this has more benefit to a P90 equipped Standard ? Trouble is the shop I was in with a view to hearing P90s let me try a Reverend Reeves Gabrels Dirtbike which was phenomenal but at £900 with no case or gig bag it’s way over budget 😞Hopefully get to try a Standard with P90 s to scratch that itch .

[@Adventuresingearland]

3:09 - wonder if a decent setup might coax a bit more sustain from it, yet still leave you with lots of change against the cost of the pro model?

[@sarkosh]

Dude, that sword!!!🤨

[@stevepelham9010]

The steps up are as 50 shades of gray. I have owned some 2000 dollar guitars and it is not like fireworks crackeling in the sky but in every part a noticeable better guitar. The fretboard on that proffessional seems to have some slighty more radius to it, it looks nicer, as better made.. What about the trussrod,? Are they the same? I got the Revstar Element, even so a very well made good sounding guitar.

[@michelvondenhoff9673]

Neither a noob nor very experienced... Imho a +$1000 guitar must have serious qualities over a $300-700 guitar. One can be quality (pu, body, neck you get the idea), finish can be a thing but also the joy it brings. If you don't play your guitar it pretty much is bragging rights. For a beginner I'd spend under $500 and go from there. If well informed and chosen that noob guitar may outlive more expensive models. Yamaha, Cort,Ibanez,Gretsch,Squier all have in some registers a decent guitar. As for the cheapest bracket Gretsch is imho the exception and deliver even there. The cheapest Squiers and Ibanez I skipped and went for a Gretsch.

[@ianbarnes1406]

Not a big fan of the colour schemes of these latest versions, and I understand that the nut width is a bit narrow. Just picked up a previous issue RS620 in Brickburst, unplayed and in great condition. Lovely guitar. Not sure how it would compare to the SG2000 I had 30 years ago!

[@toneranger]

I agree, the colours are dull and very uninspiring compared to Gretsch colours, the sunburst looks half finished

[@ianbarnes1406]

@@toneranger ha ha. The sunburst one is about the only one I'd go for 😁

[@kytarovyutulek]

Little late to the party, but yeah - I definitelly can hear the difference. Even unplugged. To my ears the RSP is level up. Just IMO, of course :-)

[@davidharding200]

I hadn’t been enjoying the focus switch like you, but with some changes to set up and amp and have found it to be a nice and useable complement to the regular tones… but it took me a while to get there. Similarly with positions 2 and 4 on the 5 way, which I wasn’t loving but with a little tweaking of the volume and tone and have found some great sounds

[@persiaguitar]

I have a yamaha revstar standard and other guitars but this one as has stainless steel I use it for a lot of practice , bending etc :)

[@Gril018]

if i went to buy one, i would go with the standard because the price range with p90's you dont quite have great competition for what yamaha offers. with the pro (around 1700€) its just a whole different story, which would be hard to pick it up instead of any other brand/model.

[@yodajazzcat]

Dear Crocodile Dundee, ("THAT'S not a knife... THIS is a knife!") I liked how you held the notes out to see how they sustain. Nobody does that and how can you tell when it's a hundred notes/second? Also how does it sound with the volume lowered? I haven't watched the whole video so maybe that's covered. I like using the volume but if it gets muddy it's useless. Maybe P90s solve that(?)

[@ToneDeth.]

Its pretty brave considering the discount. Like if you think of Ibanez Prestige v Premium the discount isnt that much. Potentially same with PRS SE range. Arent these all made in the Cort factory in Indonesia anyway for these midrange instruments. I'm tempted to get the Revstar. But i think a Cort G300 Pro is better value.

[@johnnathancordy]

The Cort stuff I have only really heard good things about. I'm actually not sure if the Yamaha stuff is Cort built....Good question that

[@ToneDeth.]

@@johnnathancordy need to consult that Philip McKnight who makes who diagram again. I think Cort make Ibanez Premium, and PRS SE. Some G&L and Squire stuff too. I think even Schecter and ESP. Not Yamaha though as far as my limited reserach goes. The Cort G300 Pro looks like an Ibanez Premium AZ but for the half the price. SD pickups. Stainless steel frets. Locking tuners. Graphtech nut. Roasted maple neck. Lumin inlays etc.

[@ChidOki]

Yamaha does not outsource or use contractors for their Indonesia made guitars, they own and maintain their own Yamaha factory there. So not Cort built, Yamaha built. maps.app.goo.gl/QLXqizQ7sBBx44E49

[@davidgood6744]

I like to think of my RSS02T in Hot Merlot as a finish exclusive to the Standard series.