Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $2,607

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The story so far. Novo is a small team of rad people who make cool electric guitars in Nashville. That’s about it. https://www.novoguitars.com/

Product specs

Brand Novo
Model Serus J
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Pine
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Tailpiece
Finish Features Relic
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 14", 9.5"
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.65"
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"

FAQs

What type of pickups are used in the Novo Custom Serus J?

The Novo Custom Serus J is equipped with Fralin pickups, known for their high-quality craftsmanship and tonal clarity, making them ideal for a wide range of musical styles.

What is the neck profile of the Novo Custom Serus J?

The Novo Custom Serus J features a comfortable bolt-on maple neck with a modern profile, suitable for both rhythm and lead playing, offering smooth playability across the fretboard.

Is the Novo Custom Serus J suitable for gigging musicians?

Yes, the Novo Custom Serus J's solid pine body and reliable hardware make it a robust choice for live performances, delivering consistent tone and durability on stage.

What kind of finish does the Novo Custom Serus J have?

The Novo Custom Serus J comes with a relic gloss finish, providing a vintage aesthetic and feel that appeals to players who appreciate a classic look.

How does the tremolo tailpiece affect the playability of the Novo Custom Serus J?

The tremolo tailpiece on the Novo Custom Serus J allows for expressive pitch modulation while maintaining tuning stability, adding versatility to your playing style.

Rhett Shull

Rhett Shull

This Guitar Changed My Life

Video thumbnail for This Guitar Changed My Life by Rhett Shull

This Guitar Changed My Life

Rhett Shull

Rhett Shull

Video thumbnail for This Thing Beats Fender Custom Shop by Vertex Effects

This Thing Beats Fender Custom Shop

Vertex Effects

Vertex Effects

Video thumbnail for Novo Serus J - My First Custom Build Guitar by Jackroy Li

Novo Serus J - My First Custom Build Guitar

Jackroy Li

Jackroy Li

Video thumbnail for Novo Guitars Custom Serus J | Ocean Turquoise over 3TSB *1 of 1* by Peach Guitars

Novo Guitars Custom Serus J | Ocean Turquoise over 3TSB *1 of 1*

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novo Custom Serus J.

Features and functionality

  • Fralin hum-cancelling alnico rod P90s offer noiseless operation with high-end clarity, ideal for environments prone to interference.

    Source
  • The Mastery bridge comes pre-engraved with the Novo logo, adding a distinct aesthetic touch without needing custom work.

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Build quality

  • The burgundy mist metallic finish is a super-thin nitro lacquer, allowing the raised grain texture to be felt on the body.

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  • Tempered pine is used for its distinct grain and resonance, sourced to be as light as possible, enhancing the guitar’s natural tone and feel.

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Comparisons

  • The Serus J weighs slightly over 7 lbs, lighter than many Jazzmasters, and offers a thinner neck profile with stainless steel frets for enhanced playability.

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  • The Serus J is noted to feel slightly better built compared to the Fano JM, with a more resonant and lighter body, appealing to those seeking comfort and sound quality.

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  • The Serus J's design is likened to a Jazzmaster and SG hybrid, appealing to fans of both models for its distinctive style and build.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners have replaced vintage-style Kluson tuners with Kluson locking tuners for improved tuning stability, and swapped pickguards for a true white pearloid to enhance aesthetics.

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  • Mastery bridge and trem systems are praised for their quality; some owners specifically highlight satisfaction with these components.

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User experience

  • After 5 months of ownership, the guitar is praised for its lightweight body, immaculate fretwork, and versatility, leading to strong user satisfaction despite the high price.

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  • Owners describe the Serus J as extremely resonant with significant chime, distinguishing it from the darker tone of similar models like the Fano JM.

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  • One owner reported a transformative experience after two years, stating their Serus J has spoiled them for other guitars, particularly mentioning a free PLEK setup when bought through Righteous Guitars.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report that the Serus J arrives perfectly set up without the need for neck shimming, ensuring optimal playability straight out of the box.

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Value and pricing

  • Despite the high price tag, the craftsmanship and playability of the Novo Serus J are highlighted as reasons for its consideration as a worthy investment.

    Source
  • While expensive, starting prices realistically begin at mid $2k, with custom orders like the Serus J starting at $3.2k.

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Critic Reviews

Novo Serus J review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Novo's Serus J is a stunning blend of artistry and craftsmanship, featuring a beautifully aged finish and a neck that's arguably among the best available. Its lightweight design and unique wood selection provide a resonant, vintage voice that feels both familiar and innovative. However, at a price point around £3,199, it may not appeal to the average player, as the market for such high-end instruments is niche. Despite this, the guitar's authentic aesthetic and superb playability make it a compelling choice for those seeking a distinctive instrument. If the style resonates with you, you’re in for a treat.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Cook Craig uses Novo Custom Serus J

Cook Craig

Singer, Guitarist

King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard

...
Verified via Novo Guitars

Cookie is featured on Novo Guitars' website under their 'Artist' page. His custom Serus J is visible in the photo. This is also confirmed in this Instagram post:

https://www.instagram.com/novoguitars/p/C501lmNOupE/?img_index=1

Specs vary between each of these guitars, so it is difficult to identify the exact spec of Cookie's guitar. However, this closeup is the best available and shows his Serus J is loaded with humbuckers and has a stop tail bridge.

See how Mac Ayres uses Novo Custom Serus J

Mac Ayres

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

please check this instagram post you can clearly see mac using the novo customed guitar.

See how R.J. Ronquillo uses Novo Custom Serus J

R.J. Ronquillo

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

Stone Sour

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

In the Premier Guitar article "Rig Rundown: RJ Ronquillo" by John Bohlinger, it is confirmed that R.J. Ronquillo uses the Novo Custom Serus J guitar.

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 Novo Custom Serus J, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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