Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 VW Electric Guitar Review Chambered Body and Humbuckers Tested

Description

Features

Testing the Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 VW Electric Guitar gave me a fresh appreciation for what a solidly built instrument can offer. This model features a chambered mahogany body, which Yamaha has refined through their Acoustic Design process. The chambering not only reduces the guitar’s weight but also enhances its tonal qualities, delivering a rich, warm sound with excellent balance. The dual Alnico V humbucking pickups are a standout, providing powerful output and a warm midrange that suits various genres from blues to rock. One clever feature I enjoyed is the push/pull Dry Switch high-pass filter integrated into the tone knob. Engaging this filter tightens the bass and accentuates the highs without losing volume or introducing hum, which is a smart alternative to traditional coil-splitting. The fretboard is made from rosewood, adding to the smooth playability, while the Tune-O-Matic bridge offers stable intonation and solid sustain.

Ice Quality & Type

Alright, this section might sound funny for a guitar review, but the quality of sound — or think of it like the ‘ice’ in a cocktail — is crucial. The Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 VW produces a tone that’s clean and articulate, with a natural warmth that feels organic rather than synthetic. The humbucking pickups give a thick, creamy distortion but can also clean up nicely for jazzy or bluesy tones. The tonal range is versatile, and the guitar responds well to picking dynamics, which is something I personally value since it allows me to express different emotions across a single performance.

Ease of Use

Picking up the Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 VW was comfortable right away. The chambered mahogany body keeps the guitar light enough for long sessions without fatigue, which my younger cousin appreciated during our jam sessions. The neck profile felt smooth, and the 24-3/4″ scale length makes bending strings easier, especially for those who favor expressive playing styles. The controls are straightforward: a master volume, tone with the push/pull high-pass filter, and a three-way pickup selector. Switching between pickups is seamless, and the high-pass filter is easy to engage mid-song without fumbling. Even for someone who isn’t a tech wizard, this guitar’s setup and playability feel intuitive and user-friendly.

Noise Levels

Electric guitars don’t usually get judged on noise levels like appliances, but hum and unwanted interference can be a dealbreaker. The Yamaha’s humbuckers do an excellent job of minimizing hum, especially with the Dry Switch engaged. It’s quieter than many single-coil guitars I’ve owned, and I didn’t notice any buzzing or interference during practice or live sessions. Even when cranked up with distortion, the noise floor remains impressively low. For a guitar in this price range, that’s a pleasant surprise.

Durability

After several months of regular use, the Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 VW shows no signs of wear beyond the expected minor scratches from gigging. The mahogany neck and body have held up well against temperature changes and travel bumps. The hardware, including the Tune-O-Matic bridge and tuners, remains sturdy and functional with no slipping or tuning issues. I’ve seen guitars that feel fragile at this price point, but this one’s build quality inspires confidence for long-term use, whether on stage or in the studio.

Warranty

Yamaha backs this guitar with a standard manufacturer’s warranty, which offers peace of mind. My local dealer provided clear details about coverage, including repairs for manufacturing defects. While I haven’t had to use it, knowing a reputable company supports the product makes a difference. For musicians investing in an instrument, warranty support should never be overlooked, and Yamaha’s reputation in this area is solid.

Value for Money

Considering the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and features packed into the Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 VW, the price point feels justified. It sits comfortably between beginner models and high-end guitars, offering a professional sound and feel without the premium price tag. Comparing it to other guitars in the same category, this model delivers excellent value, especially with its chambered body design and unique high-pass filter feature. It’s a smart investment for players wanting a versatile, reliable guitar that doesn’t break the bank but still performs at a high level.

Benefits

• Lightweight chambered mahogany body for comfort and tone
• Powerful dual Alnico V humbuckers with warm midrange
• Push/pull Dry Switch high-pass filter enhances tonal versatility
• Reliable Tune-O-Matic bridge and smooth rosewood fretboard

Drawbacks

• Vintage White finish shows fingerprints and minor smudges easily
• Limited color options if you’re looking for something flashier
• No factory-installed locking tuners, which some players might prefer
• The guitar might feel slightly narrow for players used to chunkier neck profiles

Competitors

Looking at other electric guitars in the same solid-body segment, the Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 VW competes well against models like the Epiphone Les Paul Standard and the PRS SE Standard 24. Compared to the Epiphone, the Yamaha’s chambered body makes it lighter and more comfortable, while the high-pass filter adds tonal options that the Les Paul lacks. Against the PRS SE Standard 24, the Yamaha holds its own with warmer midrange tones and a more vintage aesthetic. However, the PRS offers more modern appointments like locking tuners and a slightly faster neck, which might appeal to shredders or players who prioritize those features. Each has its strengths, but the Revstar’s unique blend of vintage design, sound versatility, and solid build make it a compelling choice for many players.

Features

Exploring every feature, I noticed the guitar’s 6-string setup with coated steel strings that feel smooth and resist corrosion better over time. The mahogany neck is glued in, which typically improves sustain and resonance compared to bolt-on necks. The scale length of 24-3/4″ is a classic design choice that many players prefer for its balance between string tension and playability. The dual humbuckers have adjustable pole pieces, allowing some fine-tuning of string balance, which is a nice touch for tone customization. The push/pull tone knob’s Dry Switch is a feature I found particularly innovative, providing a high-pass filter effect that enhances clarity without the usual downsides associated with coil splits, such as volume drop or noise increase.

Putting it all together, the Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 VW blends classic style with modern enhancements, making it a guitar that’s both visually striking and sonically flexible. My personal experience, along with feedback from friends and fellow musicians, confirms that this instrument can fit into many musical settings, from bedroom practice to live gigs.

Additional information