Schecter Synyster Gates Custom-S Electric Guitar Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Schecter Synyster Gates Custom-S electric guitar. Please read these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and to maximize the lifespan of your instrument.

Image: The Schecter Synyster Gates Custom-S electric guitar, featuring its distinctive black finish with gold stripes, gold hardware, and a Floyd Rose tremolo system. The guitar has a humbucker bridge pickup and a Sustainiac neck pickup.

Setup

Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove the guitar from its packaging. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or warranty claims.

Tuning

The Synyster Gates Custom-S features a Floyd Rose 1500 Series tremolo system. Tuning this system requires specific steps:

1. Unlock the locking nut clamps at the headstock using the provided hex wrench.
2. Tune each string to the desired pitch using the main tuning pegs.
3. Once tuned, re-tighten the locking nut clamps. Do not overtighten.
4. Use the fine tuners on the Floyd Rose bridge for minor pitch adjustments.

Strap Attachment

Attach a guitar strap securely to the strap buttons located on the body of the guitar. Ensure the strap is firmly attached before playing.

Operating the Guitar

Controls Overview

Your guitar is equipped with several controls to shape your sound:

• Volume Knob: Controls the overall output level of the guitar.
• Tone Knob: Adjusts the treble frequencies. Turning it clockwise increases treble, counter-clockwise decreases it.
• 3-Way Pickup Selector Switch: Selects between the bridge humbucker, neck Sustainiac, or both.
• Sustainiac On/Off Switch: Activates or deactivates the Sustainiac system.
• Sustainiac Mode Switch: Selects the Sustainiac mode (Fundamental, Harmonic, or Mix).

Sustainiac System

The Sustainiac system allows for infinite sustain of notes. To use:

1. Ensure the Sustainiac On/Off switch is engaged.
2. Select your desired mode using the Sustainiac Mode switch:
   • Fundamental: Sustains the original note.
   • Harmonic: Sustains a harmonic of the original note.
   • Mix: Sustains a blend of fundamental and harmonic.
3. Adjust the guitar's volume and tone as needed.

Floyd Rose Tremolo System

The Floyd Rose 1500 Series tremolo allows for expressive pitch bending. Familiarize yourself with its operation:

• Pressing the tremolo bar down lowers the pitch of all strings.
• Pulling the tremolo bar up raises the pitch of all strings.
• Due to the locking nut, tuning stability is maintained even with aggressive tremolo use.

Maintenance

Cleaning

Regularly wipe down your guitar with a soft, lint-free cloth. For the body, a guitar-specific polish can be used. Clean the ebony fretboard with a dry cloth; avoid harsh chemicals. Periodically clean the hardware to prevent tarnishing.

String Replacement

Replacing strings on a Floyd Rose system requires care:

1. Loosen the locking nut clamps and the string clamps at the bridge.
2. Remove the old strings.
3. Insert the new strings into the bridge saddles and tighten the string clamps.
4. Thread the strings through the tuning pegs and tune to pitch.
5. Lock the nut and fine-tune using the bridge tuners.

Fretboard Care

The ebony fretboard benefits from occasional conditioning to prevent drying and cracking. Use a specialized fretboard conditioner sparingly, applying it with a clean cloth and wiping off any excess.

Storage

Store your guitar in a climate-controlled environment, ideally in a hard case, to protect it from extreme temperature changes and humidity fluctuations. This helps prevent wood warping and finish damage.

Troubleshooting

• Poor Tuning Stability: Ensure locking nut clamps and bridge string clamps are properly tightened. Check for worn strings or issues with the tremolo springs.
• No Sound/Weak Output: Check cable connections, amplifier settings, and guitar volume/tone knobs. Ensure the Sustainiac is not accidentally engaged in a way that mutes the output (e.g., if the battery is low).
• Excessive Noise/Hum: Verify proper grounding of your amplifier and cables. Check for loose wiring inside the guitar (requires professional inspection).
• Sustainiac Not Working: Check the 9V battery inside the control cavity. Replace if necessary. Ensure both Sustainiac switches are in the correct position.

For complex issues or repairs, consult a qualified guitar technician or authorized Schecter service center.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Schecter Guitars provides a limited warranty for its products. Please refer to the official Schecter website or the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms, conditions, and registration details. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Support

For technical assistance, parts, or service inquiries, please contact Schecter Customer Support. Visit the official Schecter website for contact information and additional resources.