A look at the technical details
Before we dive deep into our test phase, let’s take a look at the main features of the Charvel Pro-Mod So-Cal Style 1 HH HTE Candy Apple Red (CAR) in a clear table:
| Feature | Details |
| Type | Electric Guitar |
| Color | Candy Apple Red |
| Body | Alder |
| Neck | Maple |
| Fingerboard | Ebony |
| Pickup | 2x Seymour Duncan Distortion Humbucker |
| Bridge | 6-Saddle Vintage-Style Synchronized Tremolo |
| Controls | Master Volume, Master No-Load Tone Control |
| Switch | 3-position toggle switch |
| Frets | 22 jumbo frets |
Appearance and workmanship
The Pro-Mod So-Cal Style 1 HH HTE impresses with its eye-catching Candy Apple Red look. The bright red color paired with the classic Charvel design attracts all eyes. The workmanship is, as usual with Charvel, on a high level. The frets are cleanly dressed and the fingerboard is flat and smooth.
The playing feel
As far as the playing feel is concerned, it inspires all along the line. The freedom of movement on the 12″ radius fingerboard is remarkable. Thanks to the jumbo frets and thin neck profile, you can execute fast runs and bends with ease. The easily accessible trebles make soloing a real pleasure.
The Sound
The two built-in Seymour Duncan distortion humbuckers leave you with little to be desired in terms of sound. Whether clean rhythm guitar or high-gain power chords: The sound always remains defined and assertive. With the No-Load Tone control, you have the option to uncompromisingly bring out the highs and exploit the full potential of the pickup.
Advantages
Excellent playing feel
Versatile, powerful sound
High-quality workmanship
Intuitive operation
Disadvantages
Optics may not appeal to everyone
Somewhat high price
Other features and uses
The Charvel Pro-Mod So-Cal Style 1 HH HTE’s chic Candy Apple Red finish may be the first thing onlookers notice, but it’s the inner workings of this electric guitar that truly make it a percussion masterpiece.
Equipping this guitar with two powerful Seymour Duncan distortion humbuckers is an absolute game changer. The pickups offer an optimal balance between high output levels and rich harmonic detail – the perfect sauce for anyone looking for a juicy high-gain. They can also be easily turned down for neat blues or jazz settings.
The combination of the Master Volume and Master No-Load Tone controls offers a considerable amount of control over the overall tone. It’s impressive how much variability these two knobs offer up, especially when adjusting for different genres and playing styles. And the 3-position toggle switch lets you quickly and easily switch between pickups, giving you an additional tonal palette.
The guitar also uses a 6-paddle vintage-style synchronized tremolo, which is known for its stability and reliability. It offers great flexibility for those who want to take their music to the next level and exploit diverse playing techniques.
The practice
In the real world, both live and in the studio, the Charvel Pro-Mod So-Cal Style 1 HH HTE excels in all-around performance. In a band environment, it remains steadfast and delivers a solid and consistent sound no matter what genre you’re in.
When recording, the guitar offers impressive performance due to its wide range of sounds. From smooth, clean tones to intense distorted riffs, the Pro-Mod So-Cal Style 1 HH HTE always maintains its character and adds that certain something to your music.
Final thoughts
Now that we have extensively reviewed the Charvel Pro-Mod So-Cal Style 1 HH HTE Candy Apple Red (CAR), we can conclude by saying that it is an electric guitar with style, comfort and versatility. It offers a perfect combination of vintage feel and modern technology.
Yes, there are cheaper models on the market, but in terms of sound, versatility and overall performance, we think it’s an excellent value for the money. So, for all you guitarists out there, if you’re looking for an instrument that will take your music to the next level, you should definitely take a closer look at the Charvel Pro-Mod So-Cal Style 1 HH HTE Candy Apple Red (CAR). It could be the perfect choice for you!
Conclusion
The Charvel Pro-Mod So-Cal Style 1 HH HTE Candy Apple Red (CAR) is an electric guitar that impresses with its excellent feel, powerful yet flexible sound. Visually, it makes a clear statement, and also the workmanship leaves nothing to be desired. Of course, quality has its price, but for ambitious guitarists looking for a versatile working instrument with a touch of extravagance, it is worth every penny. The proof of the pudding is in the eating – pick it up and see for yourself!