Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $960

Standard/Professional

$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

Experience the distinct allure of the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR, an electric guitar that breaks the mold of traditional design with its dual-cutaway mahogany body and maple top. Handcrafted in Japan, this instrument promises not only striking aesthetics but also a robust tonal range, thanks to its expert craftsmanship. The set mahogany neck with a thick, fat profile offers a familiar grip, enhancing your playing comfort while delivering impressive sustain.

What sets the RSP20CR apart is its Yamaha VH7+ Alnico pickups, designed to provide a dynamic and versatile sound palette. Whether you're chasing warm, vintage tones or a more modern bite, these pickups will deliver with precision. The master volume and tone controls, featuring a push/pull dry switch, allow for instant tonal adjustments and ensure you can easily tailor your sound to any musical setting.

Equipped with satin nickel hardware, including die-cast Yamaha tuners and a wraparound Tonepros bridge, the Revstar RSP20CR promises both reliability and style. The antique pickup covers add a touch of vintage charm, while the inclusion of a durable hardshell case ensures your guitar remains protected on the road or in storage.

Key Features:

  • Dual-cutaway mahogany body with a maple top
  • Set mahogany neck with a thick, fat profile
  • Yamaha VH7+ Alnico pickups with push/pull dry switch
  • Satin nickel hardware including die-cast Yamaha tuners
  • Wraparound Tonepros bridge
  • Comes with a hardshell case

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model Revstar RSP20CR
Finish Brushed Black, Rusty Rat
Year 2010s
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Wrap-Around
Color Family Black, Blue
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR like?

The Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR features a "fat" neck profile, providing a comfortable grip for players who prefer a thicker neck feel, which is ideal for both rhythm and lead playing.

What kind of pickups does the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR have?

The Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR is equipped with VH7+ passive humbucking pickups, which deliver a warm and full-bodied tone suitable for a variety of music genres.

Is the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR suitable for heavy music styles?

Yes, the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR's dual humbuckers and solid mahogany body offer a powerful tone with great sustain, making it well-suited for heavier music styles like rock and metal.

What is the scale length of the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR?

The Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR has a 24.75" scale length, which contributes to its warm tone and makes it easier to bend strings.

Does the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR come with a case?

Yes, the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR includes a hardshell case, providing protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

What is the special feature of the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR's electronics?

The Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR features a push/pull tone control with a Dry switch, which filters out low frequencies for a cleaner, single-coil-like sound without the hum.

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for RSP20CR sound sample by Yamaha Global

RSP20CR sound sample

Yamaha Global

Yamaha Global

Video thumbnail for A PERFECT Alternative To A Les Paul? | Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR by Cameron Cooper

A PERFECT Alternative To A Les Paul? | Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Cameron Cooper

Cameron Cooper

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Revstar Series Demo by Jeff Schroeder | RSP20CR by Yamaha Global

Yamaha Revstar Series Demo by Jeff Schroeder | RSP20CR

Yamaha Global

Yamaha Global

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR - Does It Do Metal? - In Standard Tuning by Simon Smith

Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR - Does It Do Metal? - In Standard Tuning

Simon Smith

Simon Smith

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA RSP20CR REVSTAR Guitar Review by Rob Harris Guitar

YAMAHA RSP20CR REVSTAR Guitar Review

Rob Harris Guitar

Rob Harris Guitar

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR Made in Japan - Full Stereo Demo by TheSpaceGuitar

Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR Made in Japan - Full Stereo Demo

TheSpaceGuitar

TheSpaceGuitar

Video thumbnail for Budapest Music Expo: Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR elektromos gitár by HangszerPláza

Budapest Music Expo: Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR elektromos gitár

HangszerPláza

HangszerPláza

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional build quality, comparable to high-end brands like Les Paul and Heritage.

  • Offers a unique, high-output pickup sound with impressive clarity.

  • Stable neck with superior reinforcement; maintains tuning through gauge changes.

  • Great value for money, especially on the used market.

  • Comes with a high-quality, solid hardshell case.

  • Immaculate craftsmanship, with a beautiful and durable finish.

  • Versatile tone with a darker, traditional sound.

  • Dry switch enhances clarity, adding a single-coil-like quality to the tone.

  • A modern classic with cool styling and a solid, quality feel.

  • Collectible status due to limited production run.

CONS

  • Heaviness, over 9 pounds, similar to a Les Paul.

  • Neck heavy, leading to balance issues.

  • Pull/push feature offers minimal tonal change.

  • Beefier neck may not suit all players’ preferences.

  • Uncertainty about long-term appearance of the brushed finish.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR.

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the stock 250K Alpha pots with 500K pots significantly improves the tonal range and usability of the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR.

    Source
  • Some users remove the stock transformer and focus switch, opting for a 50’s wiring schematic with added capacitors for more tonal options.

    Source
  • Owners often swap the copper pickguard for a black one, but it's advised to keep the original, as replacements cost around $170 from Yamaha.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The stock pickups are described as PAF-esque, with resistance values around 5.5K (neck) and 5.9K (bridge), suitable for genres from jazz to hard rock.

    Source
  • The dry switch effectively EQs lower frequencies, simulating a P90 sound and is noted as more usable than typical coil splitting.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Out of the box, the frets are well-finished with no sharp ends, and a quick buff and conditioning further enhance playability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Without modification, the neck pickup is ideal for solos like "November Rain" but lacks articulation for cleaner sounds.

    Source

Build quality

  • Despite being chambered, some users find the guitar's weight around 8.1 lbs. heavy for extended play.

    Source
  • The matte blue "Rusty Rat" finish can be prone to fingerprints, though not significantly problematic for most users.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Revstar is seen as a viable alternative to Epiphone Les Pauls and SGs, particularly after modifications.

    Source

User experience

  • A Yamaha enthusiast mentions the Revstar's consistent build quality across various models, emphasizing their durability for working musicians.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR impresses with its blend of vintage-inspired aesthetics and modern playability. Praised for its excellent construction and high-quality Japanese craftsmanship, this guitar excels with its articulate vintage-style pickups and ergonomic design, ensuring comfort and ease of play. While the satin finish might require some maintenance due to smudges, the guitar's tonal range and versatility, enhanced by a unique EQ-shaping "dry" switch, make it a worthy investment. Despite a steep price, it offers custom-shop quality that rivals more expensive instruments, making it a standout choice for discerning players.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how James Iha uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

James Iha

Guitarist, Bassist

The Smashing Pumpkins

...
Verified via Premierguitar

One of the guitars James is using on the current Pefect Circle tour is a Yamaha Revstar. Based on the photo (4th from left) in this Premier Guitar rig rundown its a well worn, top of the line RSP20CR in brushed black with the pickup covers removed.

See how Jade Puget uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Jade Puget

Singer, Guitarist

AFI

...
Verified via Photo

“The Revstar has great tone, I've been using it in the studio quite a bit and I love the versatility and character it can bring to a song.” -Jade Puget, AFI (1973-present)

#MeetYourOtherHalf #YamahaRevstar

See how Jeff Schroeder uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Jeff Schroeder

Guitarist, Keyboardist

The Smashing Pumpkins

...
Verified via YouTube

Pick-ups replaced to Railhammers (Alnico Grande in the bridge, Hyper Vintage in the neck)

"This is more like a rock type of guitar that I'd use on heavier songs, I'm using it on like drop-d stuff, Hummer, Drown, those songs"

See how Matteo Mancuso uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Matteo Mancuso

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video by Line 6 titled "Matteo Mancuso - 'Polifemo' | NAMM 2019," Matteo Mancuso can be seen playing a Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR electric guitar.

See how Sumire Yoshida uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Sumire Yoshida

Singer, Guitarist

Silent Siren

...
Verified via Twitter

Sumire Yoshida uses the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR during the #3131 tour, as mentioned on her Twitter.

See how Andra Ramadhan uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Andra Ramadhan

Guitarist

Dewa 19

...
Verified via YouTube

In his YouTube video titled "TUTORIAL ASPIRASI PUTIH," Andra Ramadhan demonstrates the Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR electric guitar. He also lists his gear, including the Yamaha Revstar, HX Stomp effects, and La Bella strings (10-46).

See how Jay Leonard J uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Jay Leonard J

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

JLJ can be seen using his Yamaha RSP20CR in lots of his Instagram and YouTube videos.

See how Tora Dahle Aagård uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Tora Dahle Aagård

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Facebook

Facebook post by Yamaha Guitars on states the model in the video is a Revstar RSP20CR.

Tora is quoted in Guitar World ( www.guitarworld.com/amp/features/tora-dahle-aagard-playing-guitar-is-my-meditation ) as saying "Now I also have a Yamaha Revstar - that’s a beautiful guitar. I think it’s one of the most beautiful guitars I’ve ever seen. It’s kind of sexy, that guitar. I need time to get to know new guitars, you know, become friends with them. We are talking, the Revstar and me."

See how Jordan Smith uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Jordan Smith

Singer, Guitarist

Diarrhea Planet

...
Verified via Instagram

Jordan Smith showcases his Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR guitar on Instagram, expressing gratitude to Yamaha Guitar Development for the instrument, which is fitted with OX4 PAF pickups.

See how Erja Lyytinen uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Erja Lyytinen

Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post, Erja Lyytinen poses with her Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR guitar in a brushed black finish.

See how Andy Susemihl uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Andy Susemihl

Guitarist, Composer

U.D.O.

...
Verified via Metal-temple

As seen in the photo with David Reece (ex Accept) promoting the REECE album "Cacophony of Souls".

See how Zorama uses Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR

Zorama

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the music video for "E Quando Troverò L'iperuranio" (2018), Zorama is seen playing a Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR.

Album Usage

The Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR has been featured on the following albums:

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 Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Line 6 Helix
Line 6 Helix Multi Effects Pedals
2
Railhammer Hyper Vintage neck
Railhammer Hyper Vintage neck Electric Guitar Pickups
2
Gibson Les Paul Special
Gibson Les Paul Special Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Taylor 814ce
Taylor 814ce Acoustic-Electric Guitars
1
Epiphone Les Paul Modern
Epiphone Les Paul Modern Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Seymour Duncan Hot Rails
Seymour Duncan Hot Rails Electric Guitar Pickups
1
Seymour Duncan SH-4/TB-4 JB
Seymour Duncan SH-4/TB-4 JB Electric Guitar Pickups
1

Community setups

Show yours
lyric_kayden

lyric_kayden

Gear IQ 1118

1 alternative for Yamaha Revstar RSP20CR, curated by the Equipboard community.

More Yamaha Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    tapirist
    tapirist

    Gear IQ 57