Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin 7-String Electric Guitar Instruction Manual

Introduction

Welcome to your new Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin 7-string electric guitar. This instrument is designed for serious musicians, featuring a swamp ash body, Fishman Fluence Modern active pickups, and a neck-thru design for enhanced sustain and playability. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your guitar.

Image: The Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin 7-string electric guitar in satin black, showcasing its sleek design and 7-string configuration.

Setup

Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully remove your guitar from its packaging. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Retain all packaging materials in case the guitar needs to be transported or returned.

Initial Tuning

Your guitar is equipped with Schecter tuners. Use a reliable electronic tuner to bring the strings to standard 7-string tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E, low to high). Due to temperature and humidity changes during shipping, the strings may require several tunings to stabilize.

Image: Detail of the Schecter branded tuners on the guitar's headstock, essential for precise tuning.

Action Adjustment

The string action (height of strings above the fretboard) is factory-set. If you prefer a different action, adjustments can be made at the Hipshot hardtail bridge. Small adjustments can significantly impact playability. It is recommended to consult a qualified guitar technician for significant adjustments.

Intonation

Intonation is crucial for accurate pitch across the fretboard. The Hipshot hardtail bridge allows for individual string intonation adjustments. To check intonation, compare the pitch of the open string to the pitch of the 12th fret harmonic and the fretted 12th fret note. These should match. Adjust the saddle position forward or backward as needed.

Image: A detailed view of the Hipshot hardtail bridge, showing individual saddles for string intonation and action adjustments.

Pickup Height Adjustment

The Fishman Fluence Modern active pickups are factory-set for optimal performance. You can adjust the pickup height to fine-tune your tone and output. Raising the pickups increases output and bass response, while lowering them reduces output and can enhance clarity. Adjust in small increments.

Operating Your Guitar

Controls

Your C-7 SLS Evil Twin features active electronics with Fishman Fluence Modern humbucking pickups. The controls typically include a master volume, master tone, and a 3-way pickup selector switch.

• Volume Knob: Controls the overall output level of the guitar.
• Tone Knob: Shapes the high-frequency content of your sound. Turning it clockwise increases treble, counter-clockwise decreases treble.
• 3-Way Pickup Selector:
  • Position 1 (Bridge): Activates the bridge pickup for a brighter, more aggressive tone.
  • Position 2 (Middle): Activates both bridge and neck pickups for a fuller, balanced tone.
  • Position 3 (Neck): Activates the neck pickup for a warmer, smoother tone.

Image: A close-up view of the Fishman Fluence Modern humbucking pickup, highlighting its design and branding.

Battery for Active Pickups

The Fishman Fluence Modern pickups require a 9V battery for operation. The battery compartment is located on the back of the guitar. Replace the battery when the output becomes weak or distorted. Always unplug the guitar when not in use to conserve battery life.

Image: The rear of the guitar, illustrating the neck-thru body construction and the location of the 9V battery compartment for the active pickups.

Maintenance

Cleaning

Regularly wipe down your guitar with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use to remove sweat and fingerprints. For the satin finish, use a damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners or polishes that can alter the finish.

String Replacement

Strings should be replaced regularly to maintain optimal tone and playability. When replacing strings, change them one at a time to maintain neck tension. Use stainless steel strings as specified.

Fretboard Care

The ebony fretboard should be cleaned periodically. Use a fine-grade steel wool (0000) to gently clean the fretboard, moving with the grain. Apply a small amount of fretboard conditioner (specifically for ebony) to prevent drying and cracking.

Storage

Store your guitar in a climate-controlled environment, ideally in a hard case, to protect it from extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations. These fluctuations can cause wood movement, affecting playability and structural integrity.

Troubleshooting

No Sound or Weak Output

• Check the guitar cable connection at both the guitar and amplifier.
• Ensure the amplifier is turned on and volume is up.
• Replace the 9V battery for the active pickups.
• Inspect the output jack for loose connections.

Buzzing Strings

• Check for proper string seating in the bridge saddles and nut.
• Verify string action is not too low.
• Inspect frets for unevenness or wear.
• Check neck relief (bow) – this may require truss rod adjustment by a qualified technician.

Poor Intonation

• Ensure strings are new and properly stretched.
• Adjust individual bridge saddles as described in the "Setup" section.

For complex issues, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional guitar technician.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Your Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin guitar comes with a 2-year warranty. For warranty claims, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Schecter customer service or your authorized dealer. Keep your proof of purchase.

For more information, visit the official Schecter website or contact their customer support directly.