Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $2,542
High-end/Boutique
$500
$1201+
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
Dive into the nostalgic waves of sound with the Charvel Surfcaster, a semi-hollow electric guitar that redefines the intersection of vintage charm and modern playability. This iconic instrument, with its bound semi-hollow offset body and captivating cat's eye f-hole, stands out in both aesthetics and sound. It's not just a guitar; it’s a portal to the past, equipped with a versatile array of lipstick and humbucker pickups that provide a wide range of tones, from warm jazz to biting rock. The Surfcaster's JT-40 vibrato bridge and roller nut enhance its playability, making it a favorite among players looking for a unique instrument that refuses to be pigeonholed. Whether you're a collector seeking the rare figured top variant or a musician in pursuit of distinct tonal qualities, the Charvel Surfcaster offers a blend of style and substance that’s hard to resist.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollow offset body with a cat's eye f-hole, offering a unique look and resonant sound characteristic.
- A variety of lipstick and humbucker pickups, providing a versatile sonic palette from clean jazz tones to aggressive rock.
- Equipped with a JT-40 vibrato bridge and roller nut for superior tuning stability and expressive vibrato effects.
- Available in both highly sought-after figured top versions and the standard plaintop models, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.
Product specs
| Brand | Charvel |
| Model | Surfcaster |
| Finish | Magenta, Midnight Black, Sea Green Turquoise, See Thru Orange, See Thru Red, Starglow |
| Year | 1991 - 1995 |
| Categories | Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Semi-Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Tremolo Bridge |
| Color Family | Black, Orange, Pink, Red, Teal |
| Finish Features | Matching Headstock |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Charvel Surfcaster |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 24 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Nut Width | 1.625" |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | SS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Top Material | Maple |
| Wood Top Style | Flamed, Opaque |
FAQs
-
What kind of music genres is the Charvel Surfcaster suitable for?
-
The Charvel Surfcaster is versatile across genres like surf rock, indie, and alternative due to its semi-hollow body, which provides a bright, resonant tone.
-
What is the neck profile of the Charvel Surfcaster like?
-
The Charvel Surfcaster features a slim, fast-playing neck profile, making it comfortable for quick chord changes and lead playing, appealing to both rhythm and lead guitarists.
-
Does the Charvel Surfcaster have a tremolo bridge?
-
Yes, the Charvel Surfcaster is equipped with a tremolo bridge, allowing for expressive pitch modulation and vibrato effects.
-
How does the pickup configuration of the Charvel Surfcaster affect its sound?
-
With its SS pickup configuration, the Charvel Surfcaster offers a clear and articulate sound, ideal for clean tones and dynamic playing styles.
-
Is the Charvel Surfcaster a good choice for beginners?
-
While the Charvel Surfcaster offers professional features, its playability and comfortable neck make it accessible for beginners looking to explore a semi-hollowbody guitar.
Videos
LouBass09
Oasis - Bring It On Down [Guitar Cover]
Reviews
PROS
-
Exceptional playability with a neck comparable to Ibanez models
-
Unique, warm tones from lipstick pickups with minimal humming
-
Versatile sound range, comparable to Jaguars
-
Classic design with a near-mint appearance even after decades
-
Highly praised by notable musicians like Andrew VanWyngarden and Belinda Butcher
-
Stands out for its crisp, smooth sound not easily found in other guitars
-
Excellent for pairing with humbucker-equipped guitars to cover a wide tonal spectrum
CONS
-
Limited appeal if you prefer traditional humbucker coil sounds
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Charvel Surfcaster.
Setup and maintenance
-
Owners report a wiring issue where the neck pickup is directly wired to the pot, requiring a full rewire to restore functionality.
Source
Features and functionality
-
Lipstick pickups deliver a bright, punchy sound and respond well to effects, although there can be a noticeable volume difference between neck and bridge pickups.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
Replacing the original switch with a newer style can resolve wiring issues and improve reliability.
Source
User experience
-
The neck feels great and familiar to those accustomed to Jackson/Charvel guitars, enhancing playability.
Source -
The seafoam green Surfcaster is highly coveted due to its rarity and distinct look, making it a sought-after model for collectors and enthusiasts.
Source -
Owners describe the string tension of the Surfcaster as closer to an acoustic guitar, providing a unique playing experience compared to typical electrics.
Source
Other
Comparisons
-
The Charvel Surfcaster's aesthetic and sound are often compared to Rickenbacker guitars, highlighting its unique style and sonic character.
Source -
A user compared the Charvel Surfcaster to the Jackson Outcaster, noting the Surfcaster's appeal as a semi-hollow body versus the solid body Outcaster.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Eric Clapton custom ordered this non-tremolo version of the model and acquired it in the early 1990s. It features a strings-through-neck construction, a non-standard bridge baseplate with six saddles in place of the normal bridge/tremolo block and non-locking nut.
Original Bonhams auction page here.
Bilinda Butcher is seen playing a Charvel Surfcaster in a user-uploaded photo on Flickr, showcasing her use of this semi-hollowbody electric guitar.
In this photo Scott Ian performing live, he can be seen playing a black Charvel Surfcaster with a white pickguard.
Melody's Echo Chamber is seen playing a Charvel Surfcaster, as featured in a photo on her Instagram account.
In this live clip from the Jools Holland show, Will can be seen playing his 12-string Surfcaster. There's a good look at the headstock at the 1-minute 50-second mark.
Scott Putesky can be seen using a Charvel Surfcaster throughout the Marilyn Manson music video for "Dope Hat".
Tommy Victor used Charvel Surfcasters in the 1990s, as evidenced by the image available on Equipboard.
Dave used the Surfcaster on the XTC track 'Fruit Nut' along with several home recordings and studio sessions.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Charvel Surfcaster, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More Charvel Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
julianwolf2Gear IQ 13060
-