Schecter Omen-8 Review – Affordable Quality 8-String

When it comes to quality 8-string guitars, Schecter lead the way when it comes to choice, as they offer a big range of models ranging from mid-range to high-end, and everything in between. Their more affordable Omen-8 will certainly appeal to those players looking for their first 8-string guitar, so let’s check it out…

Body & Neck

Schecter keeps things simple in the looks department, with the Omen-8 showing off very little in decoration or detailing, aside from some thin body binding. Although it does come in a choice of three different colors – there’s a glossy black or glossy white version, as well as a satin-finished walnut color, which is quite red in appearance. All look great, and the finishes are of a very applaudable quality – as is the set-up from the box. With a scale length of 26.5”, the solid basswood body is cut to a familiar double-cutaway shape, with an arched top giving it classic Schecter appeal. The maple neck features a very hand-friendly thin C shape, and is incredibly sturdy, thanks to the bolt-on construction and carbon fiber reinforcement rods. There’s a rosewood fretboard and a full 24 extra-jumbo frets, for easy string bending, while some pearloid Gothic Cross inlays give the guitar a little elegant dazzle.

Hardware

The Omen-8 is voiced by two Schecter Diamond Plus humbuckers, placed at the bridge and neck positions. For passive stock pickups, these are pretty hot and offer a great output – very impressive. Controls are relatively simple, with just a single master volume and master tone rotary control knob, and a three-way selector switch. Elsewhere, the Omen-8 offers a very good set of Schecter tuners in a 4+4 configuration, with a precise 15:1 gear ratio and an all-round stable feel. Below this is a self-lubricating Graph Tech XL Black Tusq nut, while you’ll find a Schecter CTM-8 bridge, which is fixed for added stability. Overall, nothing to complain about here.

Sound

For one of the more affordable 8-string guitars, the sound on offer with the Omen-8 is very solid. There’s a huge low-end, perfect for drop-tuned metal rhythm, while the overwound coils on the Diamond Plus humbuckers do a great job of cutting through the mix for lead playing. The lowest strings can come across as a little muddy, especially as the distortion is cranked up, but the clean tones are very well-balanced, and are great for more jazz-inclined players. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaEMckw3Kgg

Conclusion

While it’s not as flash in the looks, hardware or sound department as some of the higher-end Schecter 8-string models, the Omen-8 is a simple but stylish model that delivers on tone, playability and value. For the price, it’s hard to beat. For more info about the Schecter Omen-8, click here. For more 8 String Electric Guitar you might like, click here.