Schecter Reaper-6 Electric Guitar Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Schecter Reaper-6 electric guitar. The Reaper-6 is a solidbody electric guitar featuring a resonant poplar-burl-topped swamp ash body, high-output Diamond Decimator humbuckers, an Ultra-access Neck Carve, and a fast-playing ebony fingerboard. Understanding the features and care requirements will ensure optimal performance and longevity of your instrument.

This image displays the Schecter Reaper-6 electric guitar. The body features a distinctive blue and natural wood grain finish, known as Satin Sky Burst, with a poplar burl top. Two black humbucking pickups are visible, along with the bridge, volume/tone knobs, and a pickup selector switch. The ebony fretboard with dot inlays is also visible.

2. Setup

2.1 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 in case the guitar needs to be transported or returned.

2.2 Tuning

The guitar will likely be out of tune upon arrival. Use an electronic tuner to bring each string to its correct pitch. Standard tuning for a 6-string guitar is E-A-D-G-B-e (from thickest to thinnest string).

2.3 String Installation/Replacement

When replacing strings, it is recommended to change them one at a time to maintain neck tension. Use high-quality nickel strings of a suitable gauge for your playing style. Thread the new string through the bridge, wrap it around the tuning post, and tighten until it reaches the desired pitch. Stretch new strings gently to help them settle and hold tune.

2.4 Action and Intonation

The 'action' refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. The Schecter Reaper-6 features a hardtail bridge, allowing for individual string height adjustments via the bridge saddles. 'Intonation' ensures that notes played at the frets are in tune with open strings. This is also adjusted at the bridge saddles. For precise adjustments, especially to the truss rod (which affects neck relief), it is recommended to consult a qualified guitar technician.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Controls Overview

• Volume Knob: Controls the overall output level of the guitar. Turn clockwise to increase volume, counter-clockwise to decrease.
• Tone Knob: Adjusts the treble frequencies. Turning clockwise typically brightens the sound, while counter-clockwise darkens it.
• Pickup Selector Switch: This 3-way switch allows you to select different pickup configurations:
  • Position 1 (Bridge): Activates the bridge humbucker for a brighter, more aggressive tone.
  • Position 2 (Middle): Activates both bridge and neck humbuckers for a fuller, balanced tone.
  • Position 3 (Neck): Activates the neck humbucker for a warmer, smoother tone.

3.2 Connecting to an Amplifier

Connect one end of a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable to the output jack on your guitar and the other end to the input jack of your guitar amplifier. Ensure your amplifier's volume is set to a low level before turning it on to avoid sudden loud noises.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

• Body: Wipe the body with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use to remove sweat and fingerprints. For deeper cleaning, use a guitar-specific polish.
• Neck and Fretboard: Clean the fretboard periodically with a specialized fretboard cleaner and conditioner, especially for ebony fretboards, to prevent drying and cracking.
• Hardware: Use a dry cloth to wipe down metal hardware (bridge, tuners, pickups) to prevent corrosion.

4.2 String Care

Strings should be replaced regularly, depending on playing frequency and individual body chemistry. Wiping strings down after each use can extend their life. Worn or corroded strings can negatively impact tone and playability.

4.3 Storage and Humidity

Store your guitar in a stable environment, away from extreme temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight. High or low humidity can cause damage to the wood. A guitar case can provide protection and help maintain a more stable microclimate around the instrument.

5. Troubleshooting

• No Sound:
  • Check that the instrument cable is securely connected to both the guitar and the amplifier.
  • Ensure the guitar's volume knob is turned up.
  • Verify the amplifier is powered on and its volume is not at zero.
  • Confirm the pickup selector switch is in an active position.
• Buzzing Strings:
  • This can be caused by low string action, uneven frets, or incorrect neck relief. Minor adjustments can be made to string height at the bridge. For significant buzzing, professional setup is recommended.
• Poor Intonation:
  • If notes played at the 12th fret are not in tune with the 12th fret harmonic, the intonation needs adjustment. This is done by moving the bridge saddles forward or backward.
• Hum or Noise:
  • Ensure all connections are secure.
  • Try a different cable or amplifier to isolate the source.
  • Humbucking pickups are designed to reduce hum, but external electrical interference can still occur.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

Schecter Guitars provides a limited warranty for its products against defects in materials and workmanship. Specific warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and purchase date. Please refer to the official Schecter website or your authorized dealer for detailed warranty information.

For technical assistance, service, or parts inquiries, please contact Schecter Customer Support directly through their official website. When contacting support, please have your guitar's model and serial number available.