Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $1,826

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Discover the Charvel Spectrum, a dynamic entry into the world of solid body electric guitars designed to cater to musicians who crave versatility and performance. This guitar is crafted with a high-speed neck profile and a compound radius fingerboard, making it a favorite among players who value both comfort and precision. Featuring a robust alder body, this instrument ensures durability while delivering a balanced tonal range that suits a variety of musical genres.

Equipped with a trio of specially voiced pickups, including a humbucker in the bridge and single-coils in the middle and neck positions, the Charvel Spectrum provides a wide array of sonic possibilities. The 5-way switch allows for seamless transitions between sounds, from crisp cleans to high-gain leads, making it an ideal choice for live performances and studio sessions alike.

The Spectrum is fitted with a reliable 2-point synchronized tremolo bridge, giving you the flexibility to incorporate expressive vibrato into your playing without sacrificing tuning stability. Whether you're shredding through a solo or laying down intricate rhythm parts, this guitar's playability and sound quality will inspire you to explore new musical horizons.

Key Features:

  • Alder body with a high-speed neck profile
  • Compound radius fingerboard for enhanced playability
  • Trio of specially voiced pickups: humbucker bridge and single-coil middle/neck
  • 5-way pickup switch for versatile tone options
  • 2-point synchronized tremolo bridge for expressive vibrato
  • Chrome hardware and die-cast tuners for tuning stability

Product specs

Brand Charvel
Model The Spectrum / Model 8 with Maple Fretboard, The Spectrum / Model 8 with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Black, Candy Blue, Desert Crackle, Fluorescent Orange, Midnight Black, Rainbow Crackle, Sea Green, Turquoise, Violet
Year 1986 - 1989
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Blue, Green, Orange, Purple, Red, Tan, Teal
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Fade
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 12", 16"
Model Family Charvel The Spectrum / Model 8
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.625"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What type of music is the Charvel Spectrum best suited for?

The Charvel Spectrum, with its SSS pickup configuration and locking tremolo bridge, is versatile for genres like rock, metal, and blues, offering a range of tones from bright and clean to aggressive and overdriven.

Does the Charvel Spectrum have a comfortable neck profile for fast playing?

Yes, the Charvel Spectrum features a bolt-on maple neck with a smooth finish and a 12" to 16" compound radius, making it ideal for fast playing and easy bending.

How does the locking tremolo bridge on the Charvel Spectrum affect tuning stability?

The locking tremolo bridge on the Charvel Spectrum provides excellent tuning stability, allowing for aggressive whammy bar use without significantly detuning the guitar.

What are the differences between the maple and rosewood fretboard options on the Charvel Spectrum?

The maple fretboard offers a brighter tone with a snappier attack, while the rosewood fretboard provides a warmer, more rounded sound, allowing players to choose based on their tonal preference.

Is the Charvel Spectrum suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the Charvel Spectrum is a high-quality instrument suitable for advanced players, its playability and versatile tones also make it accessible for beginners who are serious about learning and playing guitar.

The Guitar Show

The Guitar Show

Bob & Ramon Show EP.05 - Charvel Spectrum guitars

Video thumbnail for Bob & Ramon Show  EP.05 - Charvel Spectrum guitars by The Guitar Show

Bob & Ramon Show EP.05 - Charvel Spectrum guitars

The Guitar Show

The Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for 1989 Charvel Spectrum Overview and Playthrough by Totally Rad Guitars

1989 Charvel Spectrum Overview and Playthrough

Totally Rad Guitars

Totally Rad Guitars

Video thumbnail for Charvel Spectrum 1990 Sea Green demo and review by Foxy's Guitar Show

Charvel Spectrum 1990 Sea Green demo and review

Foxy's Guitar Show

Foxy's Guitar Show

Reviews

Critic Reviews

Spectrum Review: The guitar does it all, perfect. Nothing "it could be blah,... | Charvel | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Charvel Spectrum is a versatile metal machine, excelling with its EMG pickups and mid-boost. It delivers a wide tonal range, from clean to crunchy, making it ideal for various genres. The guitar boasts impressive durability, withstanding live performances and showing minimal wear over decades. Its action is low and smooth, though some fret buzz is noted. While it lacks a bridge humbucker, the mid-boost compensates well. A rare finish and solid build make it a desirable choice for metal enthusiasts. Despite minor setup flaws, the review praises its sound quality and reliability, declaring it a perfect fit for heavy music styles.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jeff Beck uses Charvel Spectrum

Jeff Beck

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

During 1980's and early 1990's, Beck used Charvel and Jackson guitars, and in this "Musician" magazine cover photo, Beck is visible with one.

See how Joss Allen uses Charvel Spectrum

Joss Allen

Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In this post Joss shows off his charvel spectrum. This guitar was giveb to him as a birthday present

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Charvel Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    kkolar
    kkolar

    Gear IQ 120646