Steve Morse Guitar

[deweyd]

I am new to the list and researching the Steve Morse Signature model. I'm very interested in this model. From reading reviews on Harmony Central and watching a Deep Purple DVD I can tell this guitar is very versitle sounding.

I recently purchased a Line 6 Variax 700. While I thought this would be the ultimate in versitle sounds, I have found it lacking in something. It's also very heavy. I'm finding that I am returning to my Strat (a put together HSS or Lone Star model). My favorite sound on this guitar is the Humbucker and Single Coil blended sound I can get.

In addition to being a fan of Steve's music, I think that pick up combinations will be a good match for the sound I am looking for.

Hence my quest begins for the next guitar.

If you any of you that own Steve Morse models could point me to any sound samples you have available via the web I would appreciate it.

Also, if anyone if Ohio knows of any music stores that have this guitar in stock, that would be a big help. I have emails into a few dealers in northern OH that appear to have them in stock. I have also asked the manufacture if they know of any dealers with stock. I live in central Ohio but would be willing to drive a few hours to try this guitar before buying. That was a mistake I made with the Variax.

Finally, I see from the specs that the Morse model weighs about 7-8 lbs. Let me know how this compares to a Strat. Or better yet, if any of you have played a Variax, how does that compare, weight wise.

 

[kbaim]

Hey deweyd,

If any of us have sound samples, they won't be as good as Steve's

I heard a big gripe on the variax was $800 of electronics on a $200 guitar. I played one unplugged and found it's neck not very comfortable. The SM model is the exact oppisite, an extremely comfortable neck. I got a black sparkle one.

It weighs more than my other ebmm's, but it's also more versatile than their other models. 11 pickuo combos, plus the ability to adjust the pickup heights (a feature not available on my lukes or axis supersports).

Also , the placement of a bridge toggle switch directly underneath the high E string might take a little getting used to.

Peelers Music in toledo, OH had one back in summer 2003 for $929. A very good price (assuming it was new).

Hope this helps a little.
KEITH

PS I wrote a review of mine on HC.

 

[kbaim]

I bought mine over the phone from DISCOUNT MUSIC in Utah. Their inventory says they have a burgandy one available. I paid 1260 for mine, and it came set up perfectly thanks to Craig over there.

 

[Warg Master]

I've been to that store a couple of times Kbaim. seemed decent enough when I was there.

 

[kbaim]

CORRECTION...it says teal, not burgandy.

BTW, a lot of us here order our eb's and usually wait 3-4 months.
Personally, I've ordered 3 and bought 3 from stores.

Oops, forgot I have another on order...make that 4.


KEITH

 

[mbgreene]

The SM model is the exact oppisite, an extremely comfortable neck. I got a black sparkle one.

Also , the placement of a bridge toggle switch directly underneath the high E string might take a little getting used to.

Hope this helps a little.
KEITH

Is there any way someone can describe the neck feel relative to the AL (or other EBMM)? There is nothing near me in stock - Although I now love the feel of my AL, it originally came across as a bit small to me and it took several return visits to finally take the plunge. I think anything with a smaller feel would be going too far.

My other question also involved the toggle position. Again, is it just a matter of getting used to it or has anyone really felt it was just too much in the way?

Thanks

Michael

 

[kbaim]

Michael,

A side by side comparison will have to wait a few months until my AL arrives, but I have played several of 'em in stores and felt that the SM neck is somewhat fuller than the AL, not smaller.

And imo, the switch location has taken some getting used to. Mainly when picking the high E string in my case. Others have said it requires a right hand shift, as it sits right in the middle of the pickguard just below the high E.

KEITH

 

[deweyd]

Thanks for all the great insights so far

As for the Variax - I would agree with that on the 500 (1st model) (800 elec in a 200 guitar) but my 700 looks more like a Brian Moore or PRS. The sound is the same as the 500 but the overall vibe and feel are better. However, the weight is really on the heavy side. and starting to cause back and shoulder problems. Also my ear is starting to get more critical about the digital artifacts that are coming from the guitar. I really noticed a difference between the Variax Jazz Box and my Strat. The Strat is more mellow sounding than the Variax.

I just called Peeler's and the mentioned that one that they slashed the price late last year. It sould in December

Still if anyone has sound bites to share, I won't try to compare to Steve's sound. I play in a weekend band myself and cringe over our board tapes each week...

I play thru a Flextone 3. So if anyone happens to have a Morse AND a Flex 3 that would be ideal to hear anything from that rig.

What has been the average wait for a Morse? 3-4 months? I waited that long for my Variax.



Dave

 

[kbaim]

I use a flextone II. All the stuff I have recorded so far is with my lukes and axis supersports.

If you want, I can record a few things next weekend on my home studio with the SM and send a cd. Email me.
KEITH

 

[PurpleSport]

Re: the SM neck feel, I concur with Keith that it certainly feels substantial enough, yet also quite comfy. The one I tried felt like a nice cross between the AL and Luke, IMHO...

Fear not, it's another great EBMM neck....I'm becoming convinced they don't make a bad one!

 

[NorM]

I wrote a little bit about comparing the SM to other necks in the post:
http://www.ernieball.com/forums/showthread.php?t=658

 

[mbgreene]

Thanks for your help Norm.

BTW the end of your old post references requesting info on your CD - so is there any info you'd like to share?

 

[kbaim]

Norm kicks butt on MOONLIGHT SONATA. Awesome!

 

[NorM]

Thank You Keith,
Stomping major butt was my goal when I sat down to arrange that piece. Mr. Greene, So that I do not conflict with the rules of the board, I will send you a private message.

BTW I can now play "Point Counterpoint" at 80 bpm. It was recorded at 108