Carvin AH1

Although a jazz and classical guitarist, I was quite interested in Holdsworth's Signature Series in that Holdsworth himself had input into the development of the guitar. The guitar is the best-designed electric guitar I have seen, and is worth every penny.
Its advantages are the light weight(lighter guitars tend to have a warmer tone), comfort(while sitting down), and simplicity. It definitely is suited to Holdsworth-style of playing, but, I believe, also a fantastic guitar for country playing--bends, slides, etc. The AH1, however, is not suited for jazz in my opinion because of the high end nature of the guitar. Using 9's will be fine for fusion, but make you fall flat playing standards--even with the tone down.
I had flamed-maple added to body and headstock. This is suggested as Alder tends to make the guitar look like a table top and downright unattractive. The add-ons really make it a beautiful guitar and worth the investment.

Altough not much different in sound to my old Charvel, the AH1 has a superior ebony fretboard which feels more comfortable and is easier to visialize scales over the entire fretboard (at least for me). You get a nice clean tone, but not the Holdsworth variety unless you have a major investment on sound systems and amps which can produce his "clean" sound and his sustaining oboe-like distortion. Intonation is excellent. Good for most styles except straight-ahead jazz--to tinty for standards.

Have had this guitar for 2 years or so and have had no problems. The Wilkinson Tremelo is very sensitive and adequate for minor pitch changes--whole steps or less. The AHI must have a higher action if you play hard on the board. Stve Morse type plays would love this guitar at a higher action, while slur and hammer style players would prefer the low Holdsworth action. Forgot: the gloss is a little thin which is great for tone (Like Taylors) but can be scratched easily. Should have no problems with proper care and is an advantage in the long run.

I have never had a problem with Carvin's support. I've found them to be very helpful and actually prefer them to large retailers. They are nice and never pushy for a sale. I will continue to buy from them as long as they continue their low-key pitch and high-quality products.

Have been teaching for 18 years and played 23 years. Not seen a better value then the AH1. Will now be purchasing a bass from Carvin.