Electric Guitars Melbourne - Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP & More
Electric Guitars Melbourne - Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP & More
Welcome to Angkor Music Melbourne's electric guitar department, where we've been helping guitarists find their perfect instrument since 2012. Located at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona, our showroom features an extensive selection of electric guitars from leading manufacturers including Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP, Cort, Music Man, Wylde Audio, Jet Guitars, Hagstrom, Chapman, Heritage, Godin, and our newly launched brand NVE Guitars . Our staff are working guitarists who understand pickup configurations, neck profiles, tonewoods, and hardware specifications across metal, rock, blues, jazz, and every style in between. Whether you're searching for a high-output Schecter Hellraiser, a classic Dean ML, a versatile Ibanez RG, or our exceptional value NVE HSS Strat-style guitar at $599, we stock instruments across every price point and playing style. Call us on (03) 8360 7799 to discuss your requirements, or visit our Altona showroom to experience these guitars hands-on.
Understanding Electric Guitar Construction and Tone
The electric guitar's tonal foundation begins with the interaction between wood, hardware, and electronics. Unlike acoustic guitars where the body serves as the primary resonator, electric guitars rely on pickups to convert string vibration into electrical signals, making pickup selection, body construction, and hardware quality critical to overall sound and playability. When selecting an electric guitar in Melbourne, understanding how these components work together helps you make informed decisions matching your musical style and tonal preferences.
Body construction significantly impacts sustain, resonance, and overall feel. Solid body guitars, featured extensively across our Schecter, Dean, and Ibanez collections, utilize single-piece or multi-piece wood construction that provides stable platforms for hardware mounting while contributing to tonal characteristics through mass and density. Mahogany bodies deliver warm, thick midrange with smooth sustain, making them popular for rock and metal applications. Schecter's extensive use of mahogany demonstrates how this classic tonewood supports heavy gain applications while maintaining note clarity.
Alder and ash represent traditional Stratocaster-style body woods, offering balanced frequency response with enhanced treble clarity. Our NVE Guitars HSS model utilizes premium tonewood selections that deliver classic single-coil sparkle combined with humbucker power, all at an unprecedented $599 price point. Basswood appears in many budget and mid-priced instruments, providing neutral tonal characteristics that allow pickup selection to dominate the overall sound. Ibanez RG models frequently employ basswood, creating lightweight instruments with fast-playing necks suited to technical playing styles.
Neck construction methods impact sustain, stability, and resonance transfer. Bolt-on necks, standard on NVE Guitars and many Ibanez models, provide bright attack characteristics with easy maintenance and replacement options. Set-neck construction, featured on premium Schecter and ESP instruments, enhances sustain and upper fret access while creating seamless transitions between neck and body. Neck-through designs, found on high-end models from several manufacturers, maximize sustain and resonance by extending the neck wood through the entire body length.
Scale length affects string tension, fret spacing, and tonal character. Standard 25.5-inch scale lengths, common on NVE and many other Strat-style guitars, provide bright, snappy tone with tight bass response. Gibson's 24.75-inch scale creates warmer tone with slightly reduced string tension, while extended-range guitars often employ 26.5-inch or longer scales to maintain proper tension on low-tuned strings. Schecter's multi-scale instruments utilize fanned fret designs that vary scale length across the fretboard, optimizing tension for each string.
Schecter Guitars - Premium Performance and Versatility
As one of our strongest-selling electric guitar brands, Schecter represents exceptional value across multiple price points while delivering professional-grade features and build quality. Established in 1976, the same year Angkor Music opened, Schecter has evolved from a custom shop producing replacement parts to a full-line manufacturer offering everything from affordable student instruments through boutique-quality professional models. Our Altona showroom maintains comprehensive Schecter inventory spanning their complete range.
The Hellraiser series defines Schecter's premium offering, featuring active EMG pickups, quilted maple tops, abalone binding, and gothic cross inlays that have become synonymous with the brand. Hellraiser Hybrid models combine mahogany bodies with maple tops, delivering the warmth and sustain of mahogany enhanced by maple's brightness and attack. The active EMG 81/85 pickup combination provides crushing high-gain tone with articulate note separation, making Hellraisers popular choices for metal, hard rock, and any style requiring maximum output and clarity under heavy distortion.
Schecter Omen series guitars deliver Schecter quality at entry-level prices, featuring solid body construction, quality hardware, and Diamond passive pickups that provide excellent tone without active electronics' battery requirements. The Omen-6 serves as an ideal first electric guitar, offering comfortable playability, reliable tuning stability, and enough tonal versatility to support skill development across multiple styles. Omen Extreme models add EMG pickups and more aggressive aesthetics while maintaining accessible pricing.
The Banshee series targets players seeking modern features in streamlined designs. These guitars eliminate binding, carved tops, and decorative inlays in favor of performance-focused specifications including compound radius fretboards, custom Schecter pickups, and hardware optimized for aggressive playing styles. Banshee GT models feature ultra-access neck joints allowing unrestricted access to all 24 frets, while maintaining the solid feel and sustain of set-neck construction.
Schecter Reaper guitars push into extended-range territory with 6, 7, and 8-string configurations, multi-scale fret designs, and specifications tailored for modern metal and progressive styles. These instruments feature active Fishman Fluence pickups offering multiple voicings per pickup position, allowing players to access clean, vintage high-gain, and modern high-gain tones from a single instrument. The multi-scale construction optimizes string tension across the fretboard, ensuring even response whether playing standard tuning or dropped to B or lower.
Artist signature models from Schecter include instruments designed in collaboration with professional musicians across multiple genres. These guitars incorporate specific pickup selections, neck profiles, and hardware choices reflecting each artist's playing requirements. Build quality across the Schecter range reflects the company's commitment to providing professional features at prices significantly below boutique alternatives, making them excellent choices for players who demand high-performance specifications without premium pricing.
Dean Guitars - Iconic Designs and Powerful Tone
Our Dean Guitars collection represents another strong seller, delivering distinctive body shapes, powerful pickup configurations, and rock-focused specifications that have made Dean a favorite among hard rock and metal players since 1977. Dean's iconic designs including the ML, V, and Z shapes create immediately recognizable aesthetics while providing balanced weight distribution and comfortable playing positions for standing performance.
The Dean ML serves as the company's flagship design, featuring radical double-cutaway body styling that provides unrestricted fretboard access while creating distinctive visual impact. ML Select models incorporate premium appointments including flame maple tops, Grover tuners, and DMT Design humbucker pickups that deliver classic Dean tone with enhanced clarity and output. The ML's mahogany body and set-neck construction generate thick, sustained tone suited to heavy riffing and lead work.
Dean V guitars update the classic Flying V template with Dean-specific modifications including sharper body points and distinctive headstock designs. The V shape's balanced weight distribution creates comfortable standing positions while the extensive cutaways allow complete fretboard access. VMNT Dave Mustaine signature models showcase how Dean collaborates with artists to create instruments tailored to specific playing requirements, featuring custom pickup configurations and hardware selections optimized for thrash metal and aggressive playing styles.
The Razorback series, designed in collaboration with Dimebag Darrell, combines elements of V and ML designs into unique body shapes featuring extreme pointed cutaways. These guitars honor Dimebag's legacy while providing modern players with instruments capable of delivering crushing rhythm tone and screaming lead sounds. Razorback Explosion models feature custom graphics and premium appointments that elevate these instruments beyond basic production models.
Dean Cadillac guitars offer more traditional double-cutaway styling for players who appreciate Dean quality without radical body shapes. These instruments feature classic specifications including dual humbuckers, tune-o-matic bridges, and mahogany or basswood bodies that deliver versatile tone suitable for rock, blues, and country applications. The Cadillac range demonstrates Dean's ability to produce excellent guitars across the aesthetic spectrum.
Dean Vendetta series brings Dean specifications to entry-level prices, allowing beginning players to access the brand's distinctive designs and tonal characteristics without substantial investment. These guitars feature solid construction, reliable hardware, and pickup configurations that provide enough versatility to support skill development while maintaining the aesthetics that make Dean guitars instantly recognizable.
NVE Guitars - Exceptional Value from Our New Brand
We're excited to introduce NVE Guitars, our newly launched house brand that delivers professional features and build quality at unprecedented value. The NVE HSS Strat-style guitar represents our flagship model, priced at just $599 while incorporating features typically found on instruments costing significantly more. This guitar demonstrates our commitment to providing Melbourne guitarists with genuine performance instruments that don't require compromising on specifications or quality.
The NVE HSS configuration combines the best of both pickup worlds, featuring two single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions for classic Stratocaster sparkle and clarity, complemented by a high-output humbucker in the bridge position for thick, powerful lead tone and chunky rhythm work. This versatile setup allows players to access clean, glassy tones for funk and pop, crunchy rhythm sounds for classic rock, and saturated lead tones for modern rock and metal, all from a single instrument. The five-way pickup selector provides neck single-coil, neck and middle in parallel, middle single-coil, middle and bridge in parallel, and bridge humbucker positions, covering the complete tonal spectrum.
Build quality on the NVE HSS matches or exceeds guitars at substantially higher price points. The body utilizes premium tonewoods selected for balanced resonance and sustain, while the bolt-on maple neck features a comfortable modern C profile that accommodates various hand sizes and playing techniques. The rosewood fretboard provides 22 medium-jumbo frets with rolled edges for smooth bends and comfortable chording across the entire neck. Fret work meets professional standards with proper leveling, crowning, and polishing ensuring accurate intonation and buzz-free performance.
Hardware specifications include a synchronized tremolo bridge that maintains tuning stability through moderate vibrato use, die-cast tuning machines that provide smooth, reliable tuning adjustment, and quality control electronics featuring 250k potentiometers for optimal single-coil response and 500k pots for the bridge humbucker. The wiring scheme ensures each pickup operates with appropriate loading, maintaining tonal integrity across all selector positions. Chrome hardware provides classic aesthetics while resisting corrosion and wear.
What sets the NVE HSS apart at its $599 price point includes features rarely found in this bracket: properly rolled fretboard edges, professional-grade fret work, quality pickups with balanced output across all positions, a comfortable neck profile that doesn't require immediate modification, and setup standards that allow the guitar to play properly straight from the case. Many competitors in this price range require immediate setup work, fret leveling, or component upgrades to achieve playable condition. NVE guitars arrive ready to perform, with attention to detail throughout the manufacturing and setup process.
The NVE brand represents our understanding of what players actually need: reliable instruments that sound good, play comfortably, and maintain their setup over time, all at prices that make quality electric guitars accessible to developing players, working musicians on budgets, and anyone who appreciates genuine value. Visit our Altona showroom at 4-6 Drake Boulevard to experience the NVE HSS and understand why we believe this guitar challenges conventional price-to-performance expectations.
Ibanez, ESP, and Premium Import Guitars
Our selection extends beyond Schecter and Dean to include exceptional instruments from Ibanez, ESP, and other premium manufacturers, each brand offering distinct characteristics and value propositions across multiple price points and playing styles.
Ibanez RG series guitars have defined modern rock and metal guitar design since their introduction in the 1980s. These instruments feature thin, fast-playing Wizard necks, versatile HSH or HSS pickup configurations, and double-locking tremolo systems that maintain tuning stability through extreme vibrato use. The RG550 represents the series' classic specification, combining basswood body construction with Ibanez V7/S1/V8 pickups and an Edge tremolo that allows dramatic pitch manipulation without detuning issues. RG models span from affordable RG421 variants through premium RG Prestige instruments featuring Japanese construction and select tonewoods.
Ibanez S series guitars take the RG concept and apply it to ultra-thin body designs, creating some of the lightest solid-body electric guitars available. The reduced body thickness and strategic contouring result in instruments weighing as little as 6 pounds while maintaining structural integrity and tonal quality. S series models suit players who perform standing for extended periods or those who simply prefer lightweight instruments that don't create shoulder fatigue.
Ibanez JEM guitars, designed in collaboration with Steve Vai, represent the pinnacle of Ibanez's performance guitar design. These instruments feature distinctive monkey grip handles, elaborate floral vine inlays, and DiMarzio Evolution pickups that deliver the aggressive, vocal-like lead tone Vai pioneered. JEM Premium models incorporate basswood bodies, Wizard necks, and Edge tremolo systems, while higher-end JEM variants feature alder or basswood construction with premium appointments.
ESP LTD guitars bring ESP's professional specifications to accessible price points through efficient manufacturing in Korea and Indonesia. The EC-1000 series demonstrates LTD quality with mahogany bodies, set mahogany necks, EMG active pickups, and Tonepros hardware that rivals instruments costing twice as much. EC models utilize single-cutaway Les Paul-inspired styling while incorporating modern appointments including 24-fret necks and active electronics.
ESP Horizon guitars feature neck-through construction for maximum sustain and resonance, making them popular among progressive metal and fusion players who demand articulate note separation and extended sustain. The MH series applies similar specifications to more compact body dimensions, creating instruments suited to players who prefer smaller, more manageable proportions without sacrificing tone or playability.
Pickup Configurations and Tonal Applications
Understanding pickup types and configurations helps players select electric guitars matching their tonal requirements and musical styles. The interaction between pickup design, placement, and electronics creates each guitar's fundamental voice, making pickup selection one of the most important factors in electric guitar tone.
Single-coil pickups, featured on our NVE HSS guitar in neck and middle positions, deliver bright, articulate tone with excellent note definition and harmonic complexity. These pickups respond dynamically to playing technique, cleaning up with lighter picking attack and increasing in intensity with harder playing. Single-coils excel for clean and lightly overdriven tones in funk, blues, country, and classic rock applications. However, single-coil pickups generate 60-cycle hum in high-gain situations and may lack the output needed for heavy metal and hard rock styles.
Humbucker pickups eliminate the hum issues inherent in single-coil designs while providing higher output and thicker midrange character. The dual-coil construction cancels electromagnetic interference, creating quiet operation even under extreme gain. Active EMG humbuckers found in many Schecter guitars provide even higher output with controlled frequency response optimized for modern high-gain applications. Passive humbuckers, featured across Dean and many other brands, deliver warm, powerful tone with dynamic response that varies according to playing intensity.
HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) configurations combine humbucker power in the bridge position with single-coil clarity in neck and middle positions. This versatile setup, featured on our NVE HSS model, allows players to access clean, glassy tones for rhythm work and powerful, saturated lead tones from a single instrument. The bridge humbucker provides enough output for rock and metal while the single-coils deliver authentic Stratocaster-style clean tones.
HSH (Humbucker-Single-Humbucker) guitars place humbuckers in bridge and neck positions with a single-coil in the middle. Many Ibanez RG models utilize this configuration, providing powerful tone in both bridge and neck positions while maintaining single-coil clarity for clean work. Five-way switching allows various parallel and series combinations, creating diverse tonal options from a single pickup layout.
HH (Humbucker-Humbucker) configurations dominate rock and metal guitars including most Schecter and ESP models. These guitars prioritize output and thick tone over single-coil sparkle, though coil-splitting capabilities allow many modern HH guitars to approximate single-coil tones by deactivating one coil in each humbucker. The resulting sound maintains some humbucker thickness while gaining clarity and reduced output.
Specialized Brands and Unique Offerings
Beyond our major brands, we stock specialized manufacturers including Cort, Music Man, Wylde Audio, Jet Guitars, Hagstrom, Chapman, Heritage, and Godin, each offering distinct characteristics that appeal to specific player demographics.
Cort's electric guitar range delivers exceptional value across multiple price points, with the company's extensive manufacturing experience ensuring quality control that challenges expectations at each price level. The X series provides metal-focused specifications including active pickups, locking tuners, and hardware optimized for dropped tunings, while CR models offer classic single-cutaway styling with modern playability enhancements.
Music Man guitars represent American manufacturing excellence with distinctive body shapes, innovative pickup designs, and build quality that justifies premium pricing. The company's proprietary humbucker designs deliver unique tonal characteristics that don't replicate standard PAF or modern humbucker sounds, creating instruments with their own sonic identity. Music Man's tremolo systems maintain exceptional tuning stability while their neck profiles accommodate various playing styles.
Wylde Audio, Zakk Wylde's signature brand, produces guitars optimized for heavy rhythm work and singing lead tones. These instruments feature EMG active pickups, distinctive bullseye and barbarian graphics, and specifications reflecting Zakk's playing requirements including thick neck profiles and hardware designed for punishing stage use. Wylde Audio guitars appeal to players seeking instruments capable of delivering crushing rhythm tone with enough clarity for complex lead work.
Jet Guitars brings quality instruments to entry-level prices, allowing beginning players to access properly constructed guitars without substantial investment. These instruments feature solid body construction, reliable hardware, and pickup configurations that provide enough versatility to support skill development across multiple styles. Jet guitars serve as excellent first instruments for students and casual players.
Hagstrom represents Swedish guitar manufacturing with distinctive aesthetics and proprietary construction techniques. The company's H-Expander truss rod system provides exceptional neck stability, while their resonator fretboard designs enhance sustain and harmonic content. Hagstrom guitars appeal to players seeking instruments that stand apart from mainstream designs while delivering professional performance.
Chapman Guitars emerged from YouTube guitarist Rob Chapman's vision of creating guitars incorporating features players actually request. The brand's diverse range includes everything from classic single-cutaway designs through modern extended-range instruments, all built to specifications refined through direct player feedback. Chapman guitars demonstrate how modern manufacturing can deliver boutique features at accessible prices.
Heritage Guitars, manufactured in the original Gibson Kalamazoo factory by former Gibson employees, produces instruments honoring traditional American guitar building while incorporating modern quality control standards. These guitars appeal to players who appreciate vintage specifications and aesthetics combined with reliable construction and playability. Heritage models demonstrate how traditional designs remain relevant when executed with proper attention to detail.
Godin's electric guitar offerings include innovative designs featuring integrated MIDI capability, synth access, and multi-voice systems that expand beyond traditional electric guitar tones. The XTSA series combines classic Stratocaster styling with Godin's proprietary electronics, while their solidbody designs incorporate Canadian manufacturing quality at prices below American alternatives.
Electric Guitar Price Guide Melbourne
Entry Level - $399-$699
Perfect for beginners and budget-conscious players. Features Jet Guitars, Cort entry models, Dean Vendetta, Schecter Omen series, and our exceptional NVE HSS at $599. These guitars deliver solid construction, reliable hardware, and versatile pickup configurations. NVE guitars particularly stand out with features typically found on instruments costing substantially more. Ideal for students, developing players, and anyone seeking genuine value.
Intermediate - $700-$2,999
Serious instruments for committed players. Includes Ibanez RG Standard, Schecter, ESP LTD, Dean ML Select, and Chapman ML1/ML3. Enhanced pickup selections, premium hardware including locking tuners, and superior fret work. Many feature active pickups, compound radius fretboards, and set-neck construction. These guitars handle professional applications while remaining accessible to serious hobbyists.
Professional - $2,500-$6,999
Premium instruments for serious players and touring musicians. Features Schecter Hellraiser, Ibanez Prestige series, ESP E-II models, Music Man instruments, and Heritage USA-made guitars. Hand-selected tonewoods, premium pickups from Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio, or EMG, meticulous fret work, and professional setup standards. These instruments deliver recording and touring-grade performance.
Premium - $3,000+
Flagship instruments representing pinnacle manufacturing quality. Ibanez JEM/Universe, USA-made Music Man models, ESP Custom Shop, and premium Heritage Custom instruments. These guitars feature exotic tonewoods, hand-wound pickups, custom inlay work, and individualized setup attention. Investment-grade instruments that maintain value while delivering uncompromising performance. Limited production runs and artist signature models.
Setup, Maintenance, and Playability Optimization
Proper setup transforms adequate electric guitars into excellent instruments, while poor setup ruins even premium models. Every guitar leaving our Altona showroom receives professional setup attention, but understanding basic maintenance helps players maintain optimal playability between professional services.
Action height directly impacts playability and tone. Lower action facilitates faster playing and easier fretting but increases buzz risk and may compromise sustain. Higher action provides cleaner tone with enhanced sustain at the cost of requiring more finger pressure. Our technicians set action according to playing style and string gauge, with metal players often preferring slightly higher action to accommodate aggressive picking while blues and jazz players may request lower settings for easier bending. The NVE HSS ships with medium-low action suitable for most styles while allowing individual adjustment according to preference.
Intonation accuracy ensures guitars play in tune across the fretboard. Proper intonation adjustment positions the saddles so that fretted notes at the 12th fret match the open string pitch exactly. Electric guitars with adjustable bridges allow precise intonation tuning for each string, compensating for variations in string gauge and player technique. Guitars with fixed bridges like tune-o-matic designs offer limited intonation adjustment, making proper bridge placement critical during manufacturing.
Neck relief affects playability throughout the fretboard's length. Most electric guitars benefit from slight forward bow, creating clearance for string vibration in the middle frets while maintaining low action at the nut and high frets. Truss rod adjustment allows neck relief modification, though significant changes should be performed by qualified technicians. Seasonal humidity variations affect wood movement, sometimes requiring minor relief adjustments to maintain optimal playability.
String gauge selection impacts tone, playability, and setup requirements. Light gauge strings (.009-.042) facilitate easy bending and fast playing but may sound thin and lack sustain on larger guitars. Medium gauge strings (.010-.046) provide fuller tone with enhanced sustain while requiring slightly more finger strength. Heavy gauge players using .011 or .012 sets generate maximum tone and sustain but need properly adjusted setups to remain playable. Dropped tunings often benefit from heavier gauges that maintain proper tension on detuned strings.
Electronics maintenance involves periodic cleaning of potentiometers, switches, and jack connections. Scratchy volume or tone controls often respond to electronic contact cleaner application, while loose output jacks require tightening to prevent signal dropouts. Active pickup systems need fresh 9-volt batteries, with many players changing batteries every few months regardless of actual battery life to prevent mid-performance failures. Passive pickups require no power and remain functional indefinitely barring physical damage.
Why Buy Your Electric Guitar from Angkor Music Melbourne
Expert Guitar Advice from Players
Our staff are working guitarists with extensive experience across metal, rock, blues, and jazz styles. We understand pickup differences, can explain how neck profiles affect playability, and help match you with instruments suited to your musical direction. Call us on (03) 8360 7799 to discuss Schecter versus Dean, HSS versus HSH configurations, or any questions about electric guitar selection.
Try Before You Buy in Altona
Visit our showroom at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona to play our complete electric guitar range. Experience how Schecter Hellraisers differ from Dean MLs, test our NVE HSS exceptional value, and feel how different neck profiles suit your playing. We maintain relaxed environments where you can spend time finding your ideal instrument through hands-on comparison.
Competitive Pricing & Local Support
We price match authorized Australian retailers and provide local warranty support for all guitars sold. Purchase from us knowing you'll receive ongoing assistance with setup adjustments, maintenance, or warranty service. Our relationships with Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, and other manufacturers ensure proper warranty coverage. Call (03) 8360 7799 for current pricing and stock availability.
Professional Shipping Australia-Wide
Melbourne metro customers enjoy same-day pickup options. We ship electric guitars Australia-wide with professional packaging and full insurance coverage ensuring safe arrival. Shipping charges apply to guitars and include comprehensive insurance protection. Regional customers receive identical expert advice through phone consultations at (03) 8360 7799. We ship Schecter, Dean, NVE, and all brands nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions - Electric Guitars Melbourne
What's the best electric guitar for beginners in Melbourne?
For beginners, we strongly recommend our NVE HSS Strat-style guitar at $599, which delivers features and build quality typically found on instruments costing significantly more. The HSS pickup configuration provides versatile tone spanning clean funk and blues through saturated rock and metal, allowing new players to explore different styles without immediately requiring multiple guitars. The comfortable neck profile accommodates various hand sizes while the professional fret work ensures proper intonation and playability. Alternative excellent beginner choices include the Schecter Omen series, Cort entry-level models, and Jet Guitars for tighter budgets. Body style matters less for beginners than proper setup and comfortable playability, though we generally recommend starting with traditional double-cutaway designs that provide unrestricted fretboard access. Visit our Altona showroom at 4-6 Drake Boulevard to try different guitars and determine which neck profile and body weight suit your physical proportions. Our staff can assess your requirements and ensure you start with an instrument supporting skill development rather than creating obstacles. Call (03) 8360 7799 to discuss beginner electric guitar options and current stock availability.
What's the difference between Schecter and Dean electric guitars?
Schecter and Dean both target rock and metal players but approach guitar design differently. Schecter focuses on modern metal specifications including active EMG pickups, thin fast-playing necks, and versatile body shapes ranging from traditional double-cutaways through more aggressive designs. Schecter Hellraiser models exemplify the brand with quilted maple tops, gothic aesthetics, and crushing high-gain tone. Schecter generally offers more pickup variety including passive, active, and coil-split options across their range. Dean emphasizes iconic body shapes including the ML, V, and Razorback designs that create immediate visual impact. Dean ML guitars feature radical styling with powerful passive humbuckers delivering classic rock and metal tone. Dean guitars typically use thicker neck profiles compared to Schecter's slim designs, suiting players who prefer substantial neck dimensions. Both brands deliver excellent value with professional features at accessible prices. Choose Schecter for modern metal voicing, active electronics, and thin necks, or select Dean for iconic aesthetics, classic humbucker tone, and chunkier neck profiles. Both brands maintain strong presence in our Altona showroom for direct comparison.
Should I choose HSS or HSH pickup configuration?
HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) and HSH (Humbucker-Single-Humbucker) configurations serve different musical applications. HSS guitars like our NVE HSS model excel for players requiring authentic Stratocaster clean tones combined with powerful bridge humbucker lead sounds. The single-coil neck and middle pickups deliver glassy, articulate clean tone perfect for funk, blues, and classic rock rhythm work, while the bridge humbucker provides thick, saturated lead tone and chunky power chords. This configuration suits players who split time between clean and distorted sounds or those who play diverse musical styles. HSH guitars place humbuckers in both bridge and neck positions with a single-coil middle pickup, providing powerful tone at both ends of the pickup selector while maintaining middle position clarity. Many Ibanez RG models use HSH configurations, appealing to rock and metal players who prioritize thick neck pickup tone for lead work alongside powerful bridge sounds. HSH guitars generally provide more consistent output across all positions compared to HSS designs. Choose HSS for maximum tonal versatility including genuine single-coil character, or select HSH for powerful humbucker tone in neck and bridge positions with middle single-coil adding clarity when needed. Consider your primary musical style and whether you value traditional Strat tones versus consistent high-output across all positions.
What makes NVE Guitars special at $599?
Our NVE Guitars HSS model delivers features and quality typically found on instruments costing $900-$1,200, making it exceptional value at $599. Key advantages include professional-grade fret work with proper leveling, crowning, and polishing ensuring accurate intonation and comfortable playability across the entire neck. The fretboard edges receive hand-rolling for smooth bends and comfortable chording, an attention to detail usually reserved for premium instruments. Pickup selection provides balanced output across all five selector positions, with the single-coils delivering authentic Stratocaster character while the bridge humbucker offers genuine high-output power for rock and metal. The neck profile features a comfortable modern C-shape accommodating various hand sizes without requiring immediate modification. Hardware includes a quality synchronized tremolo maintaining tuning stability through moderate use, die-cast tuners providing smooth reliable adjustment, and properly wired electronics with appropriate pot values for optimal pickup response. Most competitors at this price require immediate setup work, component upgrades, or fret leveling to achieve playable condition. NVE guitars arrive ready to perform with setup standards ensuring comfortable action, accurate intonation, and reliable hardware function. As our house brand, we control quality throughout manufacturing and setup, ensuring every NVE guitar meets our standards before reaching customers. Visit our Altona showroom to experience the NVE HSS and understand why we believe this guitar redefines value expectations at $599.
Do I need active or passive pickups?
Active and passive pickups serve different musical applications and tonal preferences. Active pickups like EMG 81/85 combinations found in many Schecter guitars provide high output with controlled frequency response optimized for modern high-gain applications. The active circuitry requires 9-volt battery power but delivers consistent tone with reduced noise, tight bass response, and focused midrange that cuts through dense mixes. Active pickups excel for metal, hard rock, and any style requiring maximum clarity under extreme distortion. However, active pickups generally offer less dynamic response compared to passive alternatives, maintaining similar character regardless of playing intensity. Passive pickups respond dynamically to pick attack and playing technique, cleaning up with lighter touch and increasing in intensity with harder playing. Dean's passive humbuckers and the pickups in our NVE HSS demonstrate how passive designs deliver warm, organic tone with natural compression and harmonic complexity. Passive pickups require no batteries and remain functional indefinitely barring physical damage. Choose active pickups for consistent high-output tone, reduced noise, and modern metal voicing, or select passive designs for dynamic response, organic character, and traditional rock tones. Many modern guitars including some Schecter models offer coil-splitting with passive pickups, providing tonal versatility approaching active designs without battery requirements.
How much should I spend on an electric guitar?
Budget allocation depends on skill level, commitment, and intended usage. Absolute beginners uncertain about long-term commitment can start with instruments in the $300-$500 range including Jet Guitars and entry-level Cort models, which provide playable quality without substantial investment. However, we strongly recommend budgeting $500-$700 when possible, as instruments in this bracket including our NVE HSS at $599 offer significantly better playability, build quality, and tonal versatility that won't impede skill development. Intermediate players and serious hobbyists should consider $900-$3,500 instruments featuring enhanced specifications like Schecter Banshee series, Ibanez RG Standard models, and ESP LTD 400 series. These guitars deliver professional-grade tone and playability suitable for recording and performance applications. Advancing players, working musicians, and recording artists benefit from $2,500-$8,000 instruments including Schecter Hellraiser, Ibanez Prestige, and Music Man models. Remember that proper setup and playability matter more than brand names, particularly for developing players who benefit most from comfortable, well-maintained instruments.
What's better for metal - Schecter or Ibanez?
Both Schecter and Ibanez excel for metal applications but offer different approaches to heavy music. Schecter emphasizes thick, crushing tone with active EMG pickups, substantial neck profiles, and voicing optimized for rhythmic precision and sustained lead work. Schecter Hellraiser models deliver powerful midrange punch with tight bass response suited to dropped tunings and high-gain applications. The thicker neck profiles provide substantial feel some players prefer for aggressive rhythm work. Ibanez prioritizes speed and technical playability with ultra-thin Wizard necks, lightweight body designs, and pickup configurations emphasizing clarity and articulation. Ibanez RG guitars facilitate fast alternate picking, sweep arpeggios, and technical lead work through reduced neck dimensions and carefully contoured body shapes. The thin necks suit players with smaller hands or those prioritizing maximum speed. For rhythm-focused metal emphasizing groove and power, Schecter's substantial construction and thick voicing excel. For technical death metal, progressive metal, or styles requiring extensive lead work, Ibanez's playability advantages become significant. Both brands offer extended-range 7 and 8-string models with appropriate scale lengths and hardware for low tunings. Visit our Altona showroom to compare neck profiles directly, as personal preference regarding neck dimensions often determines which brand suits individual players better.
Are expensive electric guitars worth the money?
Premium electric guitars justify their costs through superior components, meticulous construction, refined playability, and long-term value retention. Expensive instruments feature hand-selected tonewoods, premium pickups from Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio, or Bare Knuckle, hardware designed for professional touring, and fret work meeting exacting standards. The difference between a $600 guitar and $2,500 instrument involves more than price inflation—premium guitars incorporate components and construction techniques delivering enhanced sustain, tonal complexity, and playability refinement. Music Man instruments, Ibanez Prestige series, and ESP E-II models demonstrate how premium construction delivers professional performance. However, expensive guitars may not benefit players who haven't developed technique to appreciate subtle tonal differences or those playing casually without serious performance goals. The $700-$1,500 range often represents optimal value, delivering solid construction and professional tone without flagship pricing. Our NVE HSS at $599 particularly demonstrates how modern manufacturing can deliver features once reserved for premium instruments. Players should also consider that expensive guitars require proper maintenance including regular setup adjustments and component care to justify their costs. Visit our showroom at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona to compare guitars across different price points and experience the differences separating good instruments from exceptional ones.
What neck profile should I choose?
Neck profile selection significantly impacts playing comfort and technique efficiency. Thin profiles like Ibanez Wizard necks facilitate fast playing and complex techniques including sweep picking and rapid alternate picking. These necks measure approximately 17-19mm at the first fret, creating minimal hand fatigue during extended playing sessions. Thin necks suit players with smaller hands, those prioritizing speed, and technical playing styles. However, some players find thin necks lack substantial feel needed for aggressive rhythm work or precise bending control. Medium profiles like our NVE modern C-shape balance playability across multiple styles, measuring approximately 20-22mm at the first fret. These necks accommodate various hand sizes while providing enough mass for secure grip during bends and vibrato. Medium profiles work well for players who balance rhythm and lead playing or those who haven't developed strong preferences toward either extreme. Thick profiles including vintage-style designs and some Dean models measure 23mm or more at the first fret, providing substantial feel some players prefer for blues, classic rock, and rhythm-heavy styles. Thick necks may slow technical playing but offer precise bending control and secure grip. Fretboard radius also impacts feel, with flatter radiuses like 12-16 inches facilitating faster playing while more curved radiuses around 9.5 inches suit chord work and vintage feels. Visit our Altona showroom to compare neck profiles across different guitars and determine which dimensions suit your hand size and playing technique.
Where can I try electric guitars in Melbourne before buying?
Visit Angkor Music Melbourne at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona to experience our complete selection of electric guitars hands-on. Our showroom features relaxed, unpressured environments where you can spend time comparing Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP, Music Man, and our NVE house brand across multiple price points. Our staff are working guitarists who understand pickup differences, neck profile variations, and hardware specifications, providing guidance based on genuine playing experience rather than sales pressure. We encourage customers to bring their own guitars for direct comparison, test guitars through quality amplification, and take whatever time necessary to make informed decisions. The showroom includes testing areas where you can evaluate guitars at appropriate volumes without distraction. We stock instruments from $299 entry-level models through $4,000+ professional guitars, ensuring comprehensive selection regardless of budget. Regional customers unable to visit can call (03) 8360 7799 for phone consultations, though we strongly recommend hands-on evaluation when possible given how significantly neck profiles and body weights vary between models. We're open during standard business hours and can arrange appointments for serious buyers. Our Altona location offers convenient access from Melbourne metro areas with parking available. Call ahead to confirm specific models are in stock or to schedule dedicated time with our electric guitar specialists.
Find Your Perfect Electric Guitar at Angkor Music Melbourne
Ready to Find Your Ideal Electric Guitar?
Visit our Altona showroom to experience Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP, Music Man, and our exceptional NVE Guitars hands-on. Our expert staff are here to help you make the right choice.
Angkor Music Melbourne | 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018 | Serving Melbourne guitarists since 1976
Electric Guitars Melbourne - Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP & More
Welcome to Angkor Music Melbourne's electric guitar department, where we've been helping guitarists find their perfect instrument since 2012. Located at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona, our showroom features an extensive selection of electric guitars from leading manufacturers including Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP, Cort, Music Man, Wylde Audio, Jet Guitars, Hagstrom, Chapman, Heritage, Godin, and our newly launched brand NVE Guitars . Our staff are working guitarists who understand pickup configurations, neck profiles, tonewoods, and hardware specifications across metal, rock, blues, jazz, and every style in between. Whether you're searching for a high-output Schecter Hellraiser, a classic Dean ML, a versatile Ibanez RG, or our exceptional value NVE HSS Strat-style guitar at $599, we stock instruments across every price point and playing style. Call us on (03) 8360 7799 to discuss your requirements, or visit our Altona showroom to experience these guitars hands-on.
Understanding Electric Guitar Construction and Tone
The electric guitar's tonal foundation begins with the interaction between wood, hardware, and electronics. Unlike acoustic guitars where the body serves as the primary resonator, electric guitars rely on pickups to convert string vibration into electrical signals, making pickup selection, body construction, and hardware quality critical to overall sound and playability. When selecting an electric guitar in Melbourne, understanding how these components work together helps you make informed decisions matching your musical style and tonal preferences.
Body construction significantly impacts sustain, resonance, and overall feel. Solid body guitars, featured extensively across our Schecter, Dean, and Ibanez collections, utilize single-piece or multi-piece wood construction that provides stable platforms for hardware mounting while contributing to tonal characteristics through mass and density. Mahogany bodies deliver warm, thick midrange with smooth sustain, making them popular for rock and metal applications. Schecter's extensive use of mahogany demonstrates how this classic tonewood supports heavy gain applications while maintaining note clarity.
Alder and ash represent traditional Stratocaster-style body woods, offering balanced frequency response with enhanced treble clarity. Our NVE Guitars HSS model utilizes premium tonewood selections that deliver classic single-coil sparkle combined with humbucker power, all at an unprecedented $599 price point. Basswood appears in many budget and mid-priced instruments, providing neutral tonal characteristics that allow pickup selection to dominate the overall sound. Ibanez RG models frequently employ basswood, creating lightweight instruments with fast-playing necks suited to technical playing styles.
Neck construction methods impact sustain, stability, and resonance transfer. Bolt-on necks, standard on NVE Guitars and many Ibanez models, provide bright attack characteristics with easy maintenance and replacement options. Set-neck construction, featured on premium Schecter and ESP instruments, enhances sustain and upper fret access while creating seamless transitions between neck and body. Neck-through designs, found on high-end models from several manufacturers, maximize sustain and resonance by extending the neck wood through the entire body length.
Scale length affects string tension, fret spacing, and tonal character. Standard 25.5-inch scale lengths, common on NVE and many other Strat-style guitars, provide bright, snappy tone with tight bass response. Gibson's 24.75-inch scale creates warmer tone with slightly reduced string tension, while extended-range guitars often employ 26.5-inch or longer scales to maintain proper tension on low-tuned strings. Schecter's multi-scale instruments utilize fanned fret designs that vary scale length across the fretboard, optimizing tension for each string.
Schecter Guitars - Premium Performance and Versatility
As one of our strongest-selling electric guitar brands, Schecter represents exceptional value across multiple price points while delivering professional-grade features and build quality. Established in 1976, the same year Angkor Music opened, Schecter has evolved from a custom shop producing replacement parts to a full-line manufacturer offering everything from affordable student instruments through boutique-quality professional models. Our Altona showroom maintains comprehensive Schecter inventory spanning their complete range.
The Hellraiser series defines Schecter's premium offering, featuring active EMG pickups, quilted maple tops, abalone binding, and gothic cross inlays that have become synonymous with the brand. Hellraiser Hybrid models combine mahogany bodies with maple tops, delivering the warmth and sustain of mahogany enhanced by maple's brightness and attack. The active EMG 81/85 pickup combination provides crushing high-gain tone with articulate note separation, making Hellraisers popular choices for metal, hard rock, and any style requiring maximum output and clarity under heavy distortion.
Schecter Omen series guitars deliver Schecter quality at entry-level prices, featuring solid body construction, quality hardware, and Diamond passive pickups that provide excellent tone without active electronics' battery requirements. The Omen-6 serves as an ideal first electric guitar, offering comfortable playability, reliable tuning stability, and enough tonal versatility to support skill development across multiple styles. Omen Extreme models add EMG pickups and more aggressive aesthetics while maintaining accessible pricing.
The Banshee series targets players seeking modern features in streamlined designs. These guitars eliminate binding, carved tops, and decorative inlays in favor of performance-focused specifications including compound radius fretboards, custom Schecter pickups, and hardware optimized for aggressive playing styles. Banshee GT models feature ultra-access neck joints allowing unrestricted access to all 24 frets, while maintaining the solid feel and sustain of set-neck construction.
Schecter Reaper guitars push into extended-range territory with 6, 7, and 8-string configurations, multi-scale fret designs, and specifications tailored for modern metal and progressive styles. These instruments feature active Fishman Fluence pickups offering multiple voicings per pickup position, allowing players to access clean, vintage high-gain, and modern high-gain tones from a single instrument. The multi-scale construction optimizes string tension across the fretboard, ensuring even response whether playing standard tuning or dropped to B or lower.
Artist signature models from Schecter include instruments designed in collaboration with professional musicians across multiple genres. These guitars incorporate specific pickup selections, neck profiles, and hardware choices reflecting each artist's playing requirements. Build quality across the Schecter range reflects the company's commitment to providing professional features at prices significantly below boutique alternatives, making them excellent choices for players who demand high-performance specifications without premium pricing.
Dean Guitars - Iconic Designs and Powerful Tone
Our Dean Guitars collection represents another strong seller, delivering distinctive body shapes, powerful pickup configurations, and rock-focused specifications that have made Dean a favorite among hard rock and metal players since 1977. Dean's iconic designs including the ML, V, and Z shapes create immediately recognizable aesthetics while providing balanced weight distribution and comfortable playing positions for standing performance.
The Dean ML serves as the company's flagship design, featuring radical double-cutaway body styling that provides unrestricted fretboard access while creating distinctive visual impact. ML Select models incorporate premium appointments including flame maple tops, Grover tuners, and DMT Design humbucker pickups that deliver classic Dean tone with enhanced clarity and output. The ML's mahogany body and set-neck construction generate thick, sustained tone suited to heavy riffing and lead work.
Dean V guitars update the classic Flying V template with Dean-specific modifications including sharper body points and distinctive headstock designs. The V shape's balanced weight distribution creates comfortable standing positions while the extensive cutaways allow complete fretboard access. VMNT Dave Mustaine signature models showcase how Dean collaborates with artists to create instruments tailored to specific playing requirements, featuring custom pickup configurations and hardware selections optimized for thrash metal and aggressive playing styles.
The Razorback series, designed in collaboration with Dimebag Darrell, combines elements of V and ML designs into unique body shapes featuring extreme pointed cutaways. These guitars honor Dimebag's legacy while providing modern players with instruments capable of delivering crushing rhythm tone and screaming lead sounds. Razorback Explosion models feature custom graphics and premium appointments that elevate these instruments beyond basic production models.
Dean Cadillac guitars offer more traditional double-cutaway styling for players who appreciate Dean quality without radical body shapes. These instruments feature classic specifications including dual humbuckers, tune-o-matic bridges, and mahogany or basswood bodies that deliver versatile tone suitable for rock, blues, and country applications. The Cadillac range demonstrates Dean's ability to produce excellent guitars across the aesthetic spectrum.
Dean Vendetta series brings Dean specifications to entry-level prices, allowing beginning players to access the brand's distinctive designs and tonal characteristics without substantial investment. These guitars feature solid construction, reliable hardware, and pickup configurations that provide enough versatility to support skill development while maintaining the aesthetics that make Dean guitars instantly recognizable.
NVE Guitars - Exceptional Value from Our New Brand
We're excited to introduce NVE Guitars, our newly launched house brand that delivers professional features and build quality at unprecedented value. The NVE HSS Strat-style guitar represents our flagship model, priced at just $599 while incorporating features typically found on instruments costing significantly more. This guitar demonstrates our commitment to providing Melbourne guitarists with genuine performance instruments that don't require compromising on specifications or quality.
The NVE HSS configuration combines the best of both pickup worlds, featuring two single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions for classic Stratocaster sparkle and clarity, complemented by a high-output humbucker in the bridge position for thick, powerful lead tone and chunky rhythm work. This versatile setup allows players to access clean, glassy tones for funk and pop, crunchy rhythm sounds for classic rock, and saturated lead tones for modern rock and metal, all from a single instrument. The five-way pickup selector provides neck single-coil, neck and middle in parallel, middle single-coil, middle and bridge in parallel, and bridge humbucker positions, covering the complete tonal spectrum.
Build quality on the NVE HSS matches or exceeds guitars at substantially higher price points. The body utilizes premium tonewoods selected for balanced resonance and sustain, while the bolt-on maple neck features a comfortable modern C profile that accommodates various hand sizes and playing techniques. The rosewood fretboard provides 22 medium-jumbo frets with rolled edges for smooth bends and comfortable chording across the entire neck. Fret work meets professional standards with proper leveling, crowning, and polishing ensuring accurate intonation and buzz-free performance.
Hardware specifications include a synchronized tremolo bridge that maintains tuning stability through moderate vibrato use, die-cast tuning machines that provide smooth, reliable tuning adjustment, and quality control electronics featuring 250k potentiometers for optimal single-coil response and 500k pots for the bridge humbucker. The wiring scheme ensures each pickup operates with appropriate loading, maintaining tonal integrity across all selector positions. Chrome hardware provides classic aesthetics while resisting corrosion and wear.
What sets the NVE HSS apart at its $599 price point includes features rarely found in this bracket: properly rolled fretboard edges, professional-grade fret work, quality pickups with balanced output across all positions, a comfortable neck profile that doesn't require immediate modification, and setup standards that allow the guitar to play properly straight from the case. Many competitors in this price range require immediate setup work, fret leveling, or component upgrades to achieve playable condition. NVE guitars arrive ready to perform, with attention to detail throughout the manufacturing and setup process.
The NVE brand represents our understanding of what players actually need: reliable instruments that sound good, play comfortably, and maintain their setup over time, all at prices that make quality electric guitars accessible to developing players, working musicians on budgets, and anyone who appreciates genuine value. Visit our Altona showroom at 4-6 Drake Boulevard to experience the NVE HSS and understand why we believe this guitar challenges conventional price-to-performance expectations.
Ibanez, ESP, and Premium Import Guitars
Our selection extends beyond Schecter and Dean to include exceptional instruments from Ibanez, ESP, and other premium manufacturers, each brand offering distinct characteristics and value propositions across multiple price points and playing styles.
Ibanez RG series guitars have defined modern rock and metal guitar design since their introduction in the 1980s. These instruments feature thin, fast-playing Wizard necks, versatile HSH or HSS pickup configurations, and double-locking tremolo systems that maintain tuning stability through extreme vibrato use. The RG550 represents the series' classic specification, combining basswood body construction with Ibanez V7/S1/V8 pickups and an Edge tremolo that allows dramatic pitch manipulation without detuning issues. RG models span from affordable RG421 variants through premium RG Prestige instruments featuring Japanese construction and select tonewoods.
Ibanez S series guitars take the RG concept and apply it to ultra-thin body designs, creating some of the lightest solid-body electric guitars available. The reduced body thickness and strategic contouring result in instruments weighing as little as 6 pounds while maintaining structural integrity and tonal quality. S series models suit players who perform standing for extended periods or those who simply prefer lightweight instruments that don't create shoulder fatigue.
Ibanez JEM guitars, designed in collaboration with Steve Vai, represent the pinnacle of Ibanez's performance guitar design. These instruments feature distinctive monkey grip handles, elaborate floral vine inlays, and DiMarzio Evolution pickups that deliver the aggressive, vocal-like lead tone Vai pioneered. JEM Premium models incorporate basswood bodies, Wizard necks, and Edge tremolo systems, while higher-end JEM variants feature alder or basswood construction with premium appointments.
ESP LTD guitars bring ESP's professional specifications to accessible price points through efficient manufacturing in Korea and Indonesia. The EC-1000 series demonstrates LTD quality with mahogany bodies, set mahogany necks, EMG active pickups, and Tonepros hardware that rivals instruments costing twice as much. EC models utilize single-cutaway Les Paul-inspired styling while incorporating modern appointments including 24-fret necks and active electronics.
ESP Horizon guitars feature neck-through construction for maximum sustain and resonance, making them popular among progressive metal and fusion players who demand articulate note separation and extended sustain. The MH series applies similar specifications to more compact body dimensions, creating instruments suited to players who prefer smaller, more manageable proportions without sacrificing tone or playability.
Pickup Configurations and Tonal Applications
Understanding pickup types and configurations helps players select electric guitars matching their tonal requirements and musical styles. The interaction between pickup design, placement, and electronics creates each guitar's fundamental voice, making pickup selection one of the most important factors in electric guitar tone.
Single-coil pickups, featured on our NVE HSS guitar in neck and middle positions, deliver bright, articulate tone with excellent note definition and harmonic complexity. These pickups respond dynamically to playing technique, cleaning up with lighter picking attack and increasing in intensity with harder playing. Single-coils excel for clean and lightly overdriven tones in funk, blues, country, and classic rock applications. However, single-coil pickups generate 60-cycle hum in high-gain situations and may lack the output needed for heavy metal and hard rock styles.
Humbucker pickups eliminate the hum issues inherent in single-coil designs while providing higher output and thicker midrange character. The dual-coil construction cancels electromagnetic interference, creating quiet operation even under extreme gain. Active EMG humbuckers found in many Schecter guitars provide even higher output with controlled frequency response optimized for modern high-gain applications. Passive humbuckers, featured across Dean and many other brands, deliver warm, powerful tone with dynamic response that varies according to playing intensity.
HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) configurations combine humbucker power in the bridge position with single-coil clarity in neck and middle positions. This versatile setup, featured on our NVE HSS model, allows players to access clean, glassy tones for rhythm work and powerful, saturated lead tones from a single instrument. The bridge humbucker provides enough output for rock and metal while the single-coils deliver authentic Stratocaster-style clean tones.
HSH (Humbucker-Single-Humbucker) guitars place humbuckers in bridge and neck positions with a single-coil in the middle. Many Ibanez RG models utilize this configuration, providing powerful tone in both bridge and neck positions while maintaining single-coil clarity for clean work. Five-way switching allows various parallel and series combinations, creating diverse tonal options from a single pickup layout.
HH (Humbucker-Humbucker) configurations dominate rock and metal guitars including most Schecter and ESP models. These guitars prioritize output and thick tone over single-coil sparkle, though coil-splitting capabilities allow many modern HH guitars to approximate single-coil tones by deactivating one coil in each humbucker. The resulting sound maintains some humbucker thickness while gaining clarity and reduced output.
Specialized Brands and Unique Offerings
Beyond our major brands, we stock specialized manufacturers including Cort, Music Man, Wylde Audio, Jet Guitars, Hagstrom, Chapman, Heritage, and Godin, each offering distinct characteristics that appeal to specific player demographics.
Cort's electric guitar range delivers exceptional value across multiple price points, with the company's extensive manufacturing experience ensuring quality control that challenges expectations at each price level. The X series provides metal-focused specifications including active pickups, locking tuners, and hardware optimized for dropped tunings, while CR models offer classic single-cutaway styling with modern playability enhancements.
Music Man guitars represent American manufacturing excellence with distinctive body shapes, innovative pickup designs, and build quality that justifies premium pricing. The company's proprietary humbucker designs deliver unique tonal characteristics that don't replicate standard PAF or modern humbucker sounds, creating instruments with their own sonic identity. Music Man's tremolo systems maintain exceptional tuning stability while their neck profiles accommodate various playing styles.
Wylde Audio, Zakk Wylde's signature brand, produces guitars optimized for heavy rhythm work and singing lead tones. These instruments feature EMG active pickups, distinctive bullseye and barbarian graphics, and specifications reflecting Zakk's playing requirements including thick neck profiles and hardware designed for punishing stage use. Wylde Audio guitars appeal to players seeking instruments capable of delivering crushing rhythm tone with enough clarity for complex lead work.
Jet Guitars brings quality instruments to entry-level prices, allowing beginning players to access properly constructed guitars without substantial investment. These instruments feature solid body construction, reliable hardware, and pickup configurations that provide enough versatility to support skill development across multiple styles. Jet guitars serve as excellent first instruments for students and casual players.
Hagstrom represents Swedish guitar manufacturing with distinctive aesthetics and proprietary construction techniques. The company's H-Expander truss rod system provides exceptional neck stability, while their resonator fretboard designs enhance sustain and harmonic content. Hagstrom guitars appeal to players seeking instruments that stand apart from mainstream designs while delivering professional performance.
Chapman Guitars emerged from YouTube guitarist Rob Chapman's vision of creating guitars incorporating features players actually request. The brand's diverse range includes everything from classic single-cutaway designs through modern extended-range instruments, all built to specifications refined through direct player feedback. Chapman guitars demonstrate how modern manufacturing can deliver boutique features at accessible prices.
Heritage Guitars, manufactured in the original Gibson Kalamazoo factory by former Gibson employees, produces instruments honoring traditional American guitar building while incorporating modern quality control standards. These guitars appeal to players who appreciate vintage specifications and aesthetics combined with reliable construction and playability. Heritage models demonstrate how traditional designs remain relevant when executed with proper attention to detail.
Godin's electric guitar offerings include innovative designs featuring integrated MIDI capability, synth access, and multi-voice systems that expand beyond traditional electric guitar tones. The XTSA series combines classic Stratocaster styling with Godin's proprietary electronics, while their solidbody designs incorporate Canadian manufacturing quality at prices below American alternatives.
Electric Guitar Price Guide Melbourne
Entry Level - $399-$699
Perfect for beginners and budget-conscious players. Features Jet Guitars, Cort entry models, Dean Vendetta, Schecter Omen series, and our exceptional NVE HSS at $599. These guitars deliver solid construction, reliable hardware, and versatile pickup configurations. NVE guitars particularly stand out with features typically found on instruments costing substantially more. Ideal for students, developing players, and anyone seeking genuine value.
Intermediate - $700-$2,999
Serious instruments for committed players. Includes Ibanez RG Standard, Schecter, ESP LTD, Dean ML Select, and Chapman ML1/ML3. Enhanced pickup selections, premium hardware including locking tuners, and superior fret work. Many feature active pickups, compound radius fretboards, and set-neck construction. These guitars handle professional applications while remaining accessible to serious hobbyists.
Professional - $2,500-$6,999
Premium instruments for serious players and touring musicians. Features Schecter Hellraiser, Ibanez Prestige series, ESP E-II models, Music Man instruments, and Heritage USA-made guitars. Hand-selected tonewoods, premium pickups from Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio, or EMG, meticulous fret work, and professional setup standards. These instruments deliver recording and touring-grade performance.
Premium - $3,000+
Flagship instruments representing pinnacle manufacturing quality. Ibanez JEM/Universe, USA-made Music Man models, ESP Custom Shop, and premium Heritage Custom instruments. These guitars feature exotic tonewoods, hand-wound pickups, custom inlay work, and individualized setup attention. Investment-grade instruments that maintain value while delivering uncompromising performance. Limited production runs and artist signature models.
Setup, Maintenance, and Playability Optimization
Proper setup transforms adequate electric guitars into excellent instruments, while poor setup ruins even premium models. Every guitar leaving our Altona showroom receives professional setup attention, but understanding basic maintenance helps players maintain optimal playability between professional services.
Action height directly impacts playability and tone. Lower action facilitates faster playing and easier fretting but increases buzz risk and may compromise sustain. Higher action provides cleaner tone with enhanced sustain at the cost of requiring more finger pressure. Our technicians set action according to playing style and string gauge, with metal players often preferring slightly higher action to accommodate aggressive picking while blues and jazz players may request lower settings for easier bending. The NVE HSS ships with medium-low action suitable for most styles while allowing individual adjustment according to preference.
Intonation accuracy ensures guitars play in tune across the fretboard. Proper intonation adjustment positions the saddles so that fretted notes at the 12th fret match the open string pitch exactly. Electric guitars with adjustable bridges allow precise intonation tuning for each string, compensating for variations in string gauge and player technique. Guitars with fixed bridges like tune-o-matic designs offer limited intonation adjustment, making proper bridge placement critical during manufacturing.
Neck relief affects playability throughout the fretboard's length. Most electric guitars benefit from slight forward bow, creating clearance for string vibration in the middle frets while maintaining low action at the nut and high frets. Truss rod adjustment allows neck relief modification, though significant changes should be performed by qualified technicians. Seasonal humidity variations affect wood movement, sometimes requiring minor relief adjustments to maintain optimal playability.
String gauge selection impacts tone, playability, and setup requirements. Light gauge strings (.009-.042) facilitate easy bending and fast playing but may sound thin and lack sustain on larger guitars. Medium gauge strings (.010-.046) provide fuller tone with enhanced sustain while requiring slightly more finger strength. Heavy gauge players using .011 or .012 sets generate maximum tone and sustain but need properly adjusted setups to remain playable. Dropped tunings often benefit from heavier gauges that maintain proper tension on detuned strings.
Electronics maintenance involves periodic cleaning of potentiometers, switches, and jack connections. Scratchy volume or tone controls often respond to electronic contact cleaner application, while loose output jacks require tightening to prevent signal dropouts. Active pickup systems need fresh 9-volt batteries, with many players changing batteries every few months regardless of actual battery life to prevent mid-performance failures. Passive pickups require no power and remain functional indefinitely barring physical damage.
Why Buy Your Electric Guitar from Angkor Music Melbourne
Expert Guitar Advice from Players
Our staff are working guitarists with extensive experience across metal, rock, blues, and jazz styles. We understand pickup differences, can explain how neck profiles affect playability, and help match you with instruments suited to your musical direction. Call us on (03) 8360 7799 to discuss Schecter versus Dean, HSS versus HSH configurations, or any questions about electric guitar selection.
Try Before You Buy in Altona
Visit our showroom at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona to play our complete electric guitar range. Experience how Schecter Hellraisers differ from Dean MLs, test our NVE HSS exceptional value, and feel how different neck profiles suit your playing. We maintain relaxed environments where you can spend time finding your ideal instrument through hands-on comparison.
Competitive Pricing & Local Support
We price match authorized Australian retailers and provide local warranty support for all guitars sold. Purchase from us knowing you'll receive ongoing assistance with setup adjustments, maintenance, or warranty service. Our relationships with Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, and other manufacturers ensure proper warranty coverage. Call (03) 8360 7799 for current pricing and stock availability.
Professional Shipping Australia-Wide
Melbourne metro customers enjoy same-day pickup options. We ship electric guitars Australia-wide with professional packaging and full insurance coverage ensuring safe arrival. Shipping charges apply to guitars and include comprehensive insurance protection. Regional customers receive identical expert advice through phone consultations at (03) 8360 7799. We ship Schecter, Dean, NVE, and all brands nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions - Electric Guitars Melbourne
What's the best electric guitar for beginners in Melbourne?
For beginners, we strongly recommend our NVE HSS Strat-style guitar at $599, which delivers features and build quality typically found on instruments costing significantly more. The HSS pickup configuration provides versatile tone spanning clean funk and blues through saturated rock and metal, allowing new players to explore different styles without immediately requiring multiple guitars. The comfortable neck profile accommodates various hand sizes while the professional fret work ensures proper intonation and playability. Alternative excellent beginner choices include the Schecter Omen series, Cort entry-level models, and Jet Guitars for tighter budgets. Body style matters less for beginners than proper setup and comfortable playability, though we generally recommend starting with traditional double-cutaway designs that provide unrestricted fretboard access. Visit our Altona showroom at 4-6 Drake Boulevard to try different guitars and determine which neck profile and body weight suit your physical proportions. Our staff can assess your requirements and ensure you start with an instrument supporting skill development rather than creating obstacles. Call (03) 8360 7799 to discuss beginner electric guitar options and current stock availability.
What's the difference between Schecter and Dean electric guitars?
Schecter and Dean both target rock and metal players but approach guitar design differently. Schecter focuses on modern metal specifications including active EMG pickups, thin fast-playing necks, and versatile body shapes ranging from traditional double-cutaways through more aggressive designs. Schecter Hellraiser models exemplify the brand with quilted maple tops, gothic aesthetics, and crushing high-gain tone. Schecter generally offers more pickup variety including passive, active, and coil-split options across their range. Dean emphasizes iconic body shapes including the ML, V, and Razorback designs that create immediate visual impact. Dean ML guitars feature radical styling with powerful passive humbuckers delivering classic rock and metal tone. Dean guitars typically use thicker neck profiles compared to Schecter's slim designs, suiting players who prefer substantial neck dimensions. Both brands deliver excellent value with professional features at accessible prices. Choose Schecter for modern metal voicing, active electronics, and thin necks, or select Dean for iconic aesthetics, classic humbucker tone, and chunkier neck profiles. Both brands maintain strong presence in our Altona showroom for direct comparison.
Should I choose HSS or HSH pickup configuration?
HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) and HSH (Humbucker-Single-Humbucker) configurations serve different musical applications. HSS guitars like our NVE HSS model excel for players requiring authentic Stratocaster clean tones combined with powerful bridge humbucker lead sounds. The single-coil neck and middle pickups deliver glassy, articulate clean tone perfect for funk, blues, and classic rock rhythm work, while the bridge humbucker provides thick, saturated lead tone and chunky power chords. This configuration suits players who split time between clean and distorted sounds or those who play diverse musical styles. HSH guitars place humbuckers in both bridge and neck positions with a single-coil middle pickup, providing powerful tone at both ends of the pickup selector while maintaining middle position clarity. Many Ibanez RG models use HSH configurations, appealing to rock and metal players who prioritize thick neck pickup tone for lead work alongside powerful bridge sounds. HSH guitars generally provide more consistent output across all positions compared to HSS designs. Choose HSS for maximum tonal versatility including genuine single-coil character, or select HSH for powerful humbucker tone in neck and bridge positions with middle single-coil adding clarity when needed. Consider your primary musical style and whether you value traditional Strat tones versus consistent high-output across all positions.
What makes NVE Guitars special at $599?
Our NVE Guitars HSS model delivers features and quality typically found on instruments costing $900-$1,200, making it exceptional value at $599. Key advantages include professional-grade fret work with proper leveling, crowning, and polishing ensuring accurate intonation and comfortable playability across the entire neck. The fretboard edges receive hand-rolling for smooth bends and comfortable chording, an attention to detail usually reserved for premium instruments. Pickup selection provides balanced output across all five selector positions, with the single-coils delivering authentic Stratocaster character while the bridge humbucker offers genuine high-output power for rock and metal. The neck profile features a comfortable modern C-shape accommodating various hand sizes without requiring immediate modification. Hardware includes a quality synchronized tremolo maintaining tuning stability through moderate use, die-cast tuners providing smooth reliable adjustment, and properly wired electronics with appropriate pot values for optimal pickup response. Most competitors at this price require immediate setup work, component upgrades, or fret leveling to achieve playable condition. NVE guitars arrive ready to perform with setup standards ensuring comfortable action, accurate intonation, and reliable hardware function. As our house brand, we control quality throughout manufacturing and setup, ensuring every NVE guitar meets our standards before reaching customers. Visit our Altona showroom to experience the NVE HSS and understand why we believe this guitar redefines value expectations at $599.
Do I need active or passive pickups?
Active and passive pickups serve different musical applications and tonal preferences. Active pickups like EMG 81/85 combinations found in many Schecter guitars provide high output with controlled frequency response optimized for modern high-gain applications. The active circuitry requires 9-volt battery power but delivers consistent tone with reduced noise, tight bass response, and focused midrange that cuts through dense mixes. Active pickups excel for metal, hard rock, and any style requiring maximum clarity under extreme distortion. However, active pickups generally offer less dynamic response compared to passive alternatives, maintaining similar character regardless of playing intensity. Passive pickups respond dynamically to pick attack and playing technique, cleaning up with lighter touch and increasing in intensity with harder playing. Dean's passive humbuckers and the pickups in our NVE HSS demonstrate how passive designs deliver warm, organic tone with natural compression and harmonic complexity. Passive pickups require no batteries and remain functional indefinitely barring physical damage. Choose active pickups for consistent high-output tone, reduced noise, and modern metal voicing, or select passive designs for dynamic response, organic character, and traditional rock tones. Many modern guitars including some Schecter models offer coil-splitting with passive pickups, providing tonal versatility approaching active designs without battery requirements.
How much should I spend on an electric guitar?
Budget allocation depends on skill level, commitment, and intended usage. Absolute beginners uncertain about long-term commitment can start with instruments in the $300-$500 range including Jet Guitars and entry-level Cort models, which provide playable quality without substantial investment. However, we strongly recommend budgeting $500-$700 when possible, as instruments in this bracket including our NVE HSS at $599 offer significantly better playability, build quality, and tonal versatility that won't impede skill development. Intermediate players and serious hobbyists should consider $900-$3,500 instruments featuring enhanced specifications like Schecter Banshee series, Ibanez RG Standard models, and ESP LTD 400 series. These guitars deliver professional-grade tone and playability suitable for recording and performance applications. Advancing players, working musicians, and recording artists benefit from $2,500-$8,000 instruments including Schecter Hellraiser, Ibanez Prestige, and Music Man models. Remember that proper setup and playability matter more than brand names, particularly for developing players who benefit most from comfortable, well-maintained instruments.
What's better for metal - Schecter or Ibanez?
Both Schecter and Ibanez excel for metal applications but offer different approaches to heavy music. Schecter emphasizes thick, crushing tone with active EMG pickups, substantial neck profiles, and voicing optimized for rhythmic precision and sustained lead work. Schecter Hellraiser models deliver powerful midrange punch with tight bass response suited to dropped tunings and high-gain applications. The thicker neck profiles provide substantial feel some players prefer for aggressive rhythm work. Ibanez prioritizes speed and technical playability with ultra-thin Wizard necks, lightweight body designs, and pickup configurations emphasizing clarity and articulation. Ibanez RG guitars facilitate fast alternate picking, sweep arpeggios, and technical lead work through reduced neck dimensions and carefully contoured body shapes. The thin necks suit players with smaller hands or those prioritizing maximum speed. For rhythm-focused metal emphasizing groove and power, Schecter's substantial construction and thick voicing excel. For technical death metal, progressive metal, or styles requiring extensive lead work, Ibanez's playability advantages become significant. Both brands offer extended-range 7 and 8-string models with appropriate scale lengths and hardware for low tunings. Visit our Altona showroom to compare neck profiles directly, as personal preference regarding neck dimensions often determines which brand suits individual players better.
Are expensive electric guitars worth the money?
Premium electric guitars justify their costs through superior components, meticulous construction, refined playability, and long-term value retention. Expensive instruments feature hand-selected tonewoods, premium pickups from Seymour Duncan, DiMarzio, or Bare Knuckle, hardware designed for professional touring, and fret work meeting exacting standards. The difference between a $600 guitar and $2,500 instrument involves more than price inflation—premium guitars incorporate components and construction techniques delivering enhanced sustain, tonal complexity, and playability refinement. Music Man instruments, Ibanez Prestige series, and ESP E-II models demonstrate how premium construction delivers professional performance. However, expensive guitars may not benefit players who haven't developed technique to appreciate subtle tonal differences or those playing casually without serious performance goals. The $700-$1,500 range often represents optimal value, delivering solid construction and professional tone without flagship pricing. Our NVE HSS at $599 particularly demonstrates how modern manufacturing can deliver features once reserved for premium instruments. Players should also consider that expensive guitars require proper maintenance including regular setup adjustments and component care to justify their costs. Visit our showroom at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona to compare guitars across different price points and experience the differences separating good instruments from exceptional ones.
What neck profile should I choose?
Neck profile selection significantly impacts playing comfort and technique efficiency. Thin profiles like Ibanez Wizard necks facilitate fast playing and complex techniques including sweep picking and rapid alternate picking. These necks measure approximately 17-19mm at the first fret, creating minimal hand fatigue during extended playing sessions. Thin necks suit players with smaller hands, those prioritizing speed, and technical playing styles. However, some players find thin necks lack substantial feel needed for aggressive rhythm work or precise bending control. Medium profiles like our NVE modern C-shape balance playability across multiple styles, measuring approximately 20-22mm at the first fret. These necks accommodate various hand sizes while providing enough mass for secure grip during bends and vibrato. Medium profiles work well for players who balance rhythm and lead playing or those who haven't developed strong preferences toward either extreme. Thick profiles including vintage-style designs and some Dean models measure 23mm or more at the first fret, providing substantial feel some players prefer for blues, classic rock, and rhythm-heavy styles. Thick necks may slow technical playing but offer precise bending control and secure grip. Fretboard radius also impacts feel, with flatter radiuses like 12-16 inches facilitating faster playing while more curved radiuses around 9.5 inches suit chord work and vintage feels. Visit our Altona showroom to compare neck profiles across different guitars and determine which dimensions suit your hand size and playing technique.
Where can I try electric guitars in Melbourne before buying?
Visit Angkor Music Melbourne at 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona to experience our complete selection of electric guitars hands-on. Our showroom features relaxed, unpressured environments where you can spend time comparing Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP, Music Man, and our NVE house brand across multiple price points. Our staff are working guitarists who understand pickup differences, neck profile variations, and hardware specifications, providing guidance based on genuine playing experience rather than sales pressure. We encourage customers to bring their own guitars for direct comparison, test guitars through quality amplification, and take whatever time necessary to make informed decisions. The showroom includes testing areas where you can evaluate guitars at appropriate volumes without distraction. We stock instruments from $299 entry-level models through $4,000+ professional guitars, ensuring comprehensive selection regardless of budget. Regional customers unable to visit can call (03) 8360 7799 for phone consultations, though we strongly recommend hands-on evaluation when possible given how significantly neck profiles and body weights vary between models. We're open during standard business hours and can arrange appointments for serious buyers. Our Altona location offers convenient access from Melbourne metro areas with parking available. Call ahead to confirm specific models are in stock or to schedule dedicated time with our electric guitar specialists.
Find Your Perfect Electric Guitar at Angkor Music Melbourne
Ready to Find Your Ideal Electric Guitar?
Visit our Altona showroom to experience Schecter, Dean, Ibanez, ESP, Music Man, and our exceptional NVE Guitars hands-on. Our expert staff are here to help you make the right choice.
Angkor Music Melbourne | 4-6 Drake Boulevard, Altona VIC 3018 | Serving Melbourne guitarists since 1976
