Product: Heatley Hollow Strat
Price Paid: US $2000
Submitted
10/31/2002
at
04:44am
by
Tyler G.
Email: itsflea22<at>hotmail dot com
Features
:
10
I recieved my hollow strat September 2002, standard scale, etc. Scoot Heatley gave me choice of tops via emailing me pictures, I chose a spectacular figured maple top. Pictures can be seen @ http://www.heatleyguitars.com/sold%20gallery.html .
As per suggestion there is one volume, and one tone control knob with a 5-way selector. I asked Scott to source me out some custom wound pick-ups - which are two single coils and a humbucker at the bridge.
The top again is maple, back is mahogany, neck is maple and fret board is rosewood.
Strat shape - but hollow with a single 'f' hole.
Came with a great case.
Sound
:
10
I play a variety of music - from Delta blues to progressive rock. I primairly play into an Alessandro English head, which is hooke dup to an Alessandro 2x12 (Blue backs). I don't use anyy effects.
Single coils, let alone hollow bodys tend to produce unwieldly feedback. This guitar has next to no unwanted noise, its quite simply amazing! Sometimes I forget its plugged in. In fact the sound resonates so strongly I can play the guitar unplugged.
The guitar is light weight, around 6 lb, and it makes a difference after a long session.
Now to the sound: (Drum roll please) Scott Heatley really impressed me with the sound. It is harmonic, rich, dynamic, dark - the guitar is so versatile it continues to amaze me. I have played several PRSs, and custom Tom Anderson's and to frank they do not compare.
Action, Fit, & Finish
:
10
The guitar arrived in perfect shape. It was in tune, everything was immaculate.
Top was bookmatched, no flaws in the least.
I asked Scott to match a 'Tiger Eye' flame I had seen on a Tom Anderson, and he copied it exactly to my specs Amazing!
Reliability/Durability
:
10
I've played the guitar for 6 months.
Custom made guitars are made with care, and can be delicate. But excellent construction will insure that almost any small accident will cause a cosmetic problem, and if something more serious occurs I am sure Scott Heatley will be quite capable in repairing it for me.
Customer Support
:
10
Scott weathered my numerous emails and calls. he was both friendly and helpfull. He sent me pictures as it was being constructed, and even played it on th phone for me to hear before shipping.
Scott is a delight to deal with, and I have long ago promised to help such a deserving person.
Overall Rating
:
10
I own a Fender Strat, a Takamine accoustic, a Yamaha handmade classical, a Warrior bass, and a custom made Northwood accoustic. I play into a Alessandro English.
I've been playing for a couple of years, and I have played almost all of the high-end models out there.
"Is there something you wish you had asked before buying this guitar?" Yes, is what kind of discount can I get if I buy two!
I really can't say much more about this amzing guitar. It was beyond my expectations.
Let me simply contextualise my review. Everyone on Harmony Central gives equipment a 10 out of 10 if they like it. Can this guitar be better? Yes I am sure it could be - but for the cost it could not. I have never had such great service in any industry.
If anyone wants to contact me, I'd be happy to answer their questions.
