Yamaha Revstar RSS20 FGR Electric Guitar Review Chambered Body and Versatile Pickups

Description

Ease of Use

Picking up the Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 FGR Electric Guitar with Gig Bag, Flash Green for the first time, I felt like I was holding something that balanced tradition with innovation. The lightweight chambered maple and mahogany body made it easier to handle during long practice sessions, which my fingers appreciated. The carbon-reinforced 3-piece mahogany neck added not only strength but also a comfortable playing experience. Tuning was straightforward thanks to the Tune-O-Matic bridge system; even after hours of playing, the guitar stayed in tune remarkably well. The rosewood fretboard felt smooth under my fingers, and switching between chords was fluid, which is a definite plus during live jam sessions with friends.

Ice Quality & Type

Okay, no ice here, but if you’re wondering about the tonal quality, that’s where the Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 FGR really shines. The two Alnico V Humbucking pickups deliver a warm yet punchy sound with a surprising clarity across various genres. The 5-position pickup selector combined with the passive push/pull Focus Switch gives me an uncommon versatility from just two pickups. Whether I was dialing in classic rock crunch or jazzier, cleaner tones, this guitar adapted with ease. I found that the pickups captured subtle nuances and dynamics of my playing, which isn’t always the case with guitars in this price range.

Noise Levels

The quiet hum of the Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 FGR when plugged in is definitely appreciated. Unlike some guitars that buzz or emit unwanted noise, this one kept background interference to a minimum, even at higher volumes. I noticed this especially during recording sessions in my home studio, where clarity matters. The passive electronics do a great job of maintaining signal integrity without adding noise. It’s a relief not to have to fiddle endlessly with noise gates or other gadgets just to get a clean sound.

Durability

After several months of daily use, including a few gigs and plenty of practice, the guitar still looks and feels solid. The carbon-reinforced neck seems to handle temperature and humidity changes well, which is a common issue in my humid basement studio. The chambered body contributes to a lighter feel but hasn’t sacrificed durability. There are minor signs of wear on the finish, but nothing concerning. The included deluxe gig bag has also protected the guitar effectively during transport. I’ve seen some guitars in this range get dinged up easily, but this one stands up to the daily grind.

Features

The Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 FGR packs a surprising number of features that make it versatile. Besides the chambered maple and mahogany body and the carbon-reinforced neck I already mentioned, the guitar includes two Alnico V Humbucking pickups that cover a broad sonic palette. The 5-position pickup selector lets me experiment with various pickup combinations, and the push/pull Focus Switch adds tonal options that go beyond what you’d expect from a two-pickup guitar. The Tune-O-Matic bridge offers stable tuning and easy intonation adjustment. I also like that it comes with a deluxe gig bag, which is a nice touch for protection and portability.

Warranty

The Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 FGR comes with a standard manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects and issues arising from normal use. While I haven’t had to use the warranty personally, Yamaha’s reputation for customer service gives me confidence that any problems would be handled professionally. This is reassuring for anyone investing in a mid-range electric guitar, as it adds a layer of security to the purchase.

Product Comparisons

Comparing this electric guitar to other solid-body options like the Epiphone Les Paul Standard or the Fender Player Series Stratocaster, the Revstar stands out for its unique chambered body design. This gives it a lighter weight without sacrificing resonance, unlike some competitors which can feel heavier and more cumbersome after long sessions. The tonal versatility, thanks to the 5-position selector and Focus Switch, competes well with models that have more pickups but less tonal flexibility. However, the scale length of 24-3/4″ might not suit players used to longer scales like Fender’s 25.5″, which could affect playability for some. The finish and styling also give it a distinctive café racer vibe, which is a nice aesthetic bonus compared to more traditional designs.

Value for Money

Considering the features packed into this guitar, the Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 FGR offers a compelling value proposition. It bridges the gap between beginner instruments and higher-end models by providing durable construction, versatile electronics, and a comfortable playing experience. The inclusion of a deluxe gig bag adds extra value, saving you from an additional purchase. While it’s not the cheapest guitar on the market, the combination of quality materials, innovative design, and versatile sound capabilities justifies the investment. For players who want a reliable guitar that handles various music styles, this model delivers solid bang for the buck.

Pros

• Lightweight chambered maple and mahogany body enhances comfort during long sessions
• Versatile tonal options with 5-position pickup selector and push/pull Focus Switch
• Stable tuning and easy setup with Tune-O-Matic bridge system
• Durable carbon-reinforced neck resists warping and wear
• Deluxe gig bag included for convenient transport and protection

Drawbacks

• The 24-3/4″ scale length may feel short for players accustomed to longer scales
• Limited color options might not appeal to everyone’s style preferences
• Some users may find the café racer-inspired design a bit niche or unconventional
• No onboard active electronics, which might limit tonal shaping for some advanced players

Ease of Use

Returning to ease of play, I noticed that the neck profile fits nicely in my hand, making fast runs and bends feel natural rather than forced. The fretboard’s rosewood material adds a smooth texture, and the coated steel strings stay comfortable even after hours. Switching between the pickup settings is intuitive, and the push/pull Focus Switch can be engaged without interrupting the flow of playing, which is great during gigs or recording. My friends who have tried the guitar also commented on how easy it was to get a great tone without diving deep into amp settings, which is perfect for intermediate players like myself.

This Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 FGR Electric Guitar with Gig Bag, Flash Green has proven to be a reliable companion in my musical journey, offering a blend of classic tone and modern versatility.

Additional information