Great video as always 👍 I have one just like yours, only in the Abyss purple/blue. It’s a wonderful guitar, and really well made. Just like you, I’m not too pleased with the barely visible fret markers, and the switch placement. But I love it, and every guitar collector needs a Chapman guitar in the collection 😊
Thank ya kindly mate! 😃👍 I love that purple blue finish one too! Would love it even more with a 9.5" roasted maple fretboard though 😁 Rich would agree with you, although he's maybe say - every guitarist needs at least 39 Chapmans 😜
So glad you picked up a Chapman, was nice to meet you at the Birmingham show! I'm sorry you had issue with this second (Maybe Third) hand model, hopefully see you at Guitar Summit.
Cheers mate! 😃🙏 It's been quite a mixed response here Re Chapman guitars. It seems to be around 65% positive, like yours (So far). But some people reeaaally don't like em 😂
Hi, that baritone guy here again. I actually suggested to Chapman that they should do baritones, and was absolutely stunned that they actually did it! I've owned 2 (both from the same factory as the one demonstrated here) . The rolled fretboard edges are absolutely stellar, I've never held better examples in my hands. , playability is really high. Adversely, I do totally agree that the controls (apart from the volume) are all in places that impede accessibility significantly . I also detest upside down headstocks because, to this day, they force me to stand on stage in public turning my head upside down like some sort of bizarre part-human-part-owl person to tune up, as you can tell , I'm not comfortable with that and will not be buying any more chapmans as a result. Some stellar finishes that did have something for me, despite their 8 year refusal to do plain and simple black. Oh and finally the "sonorous" pickups are absolute mud, I will always consider them mere place holders. I once thought I was a fan... but it turns out it was really just about the fretboard & playability and nothing else.
It's quite exciting to see some hand-me-down guitars from other UA-camrs! I actually recently bought John Cordy's LP style Sire L7 and I'm looking forward to see the rolled fingerboard edge hype. P.S. definitely want to see the comparison with Harley Benton Fusion!
Nice one mate! please let me know if it can make you sound like John Cordy! 😃 If it does, I'm buying whatever he's selling next on his ebay store (as long as it's not too heavy 😜). I kinda already sold the HB Fusion 🙈 But I might have already filmed the comparison - I actually can't remember 🙈
Hi Steve, I'm not really a Strat type person but I quite liked the sound of this one. A very cool looking guitar too. That little strum thing you did at around nine minutes in sounded stunning. I've never had a Chapman guitar in my hands but I think I'd quite fancy having a go. Thanks for a good honest look at it.
That sounds rad, I like the color too! I had a strong opinion about a brand too at one point and then I played one that I finally bonded with. I can say I’m still not a fan girl but never say never on guitars they may say “hold my beer” and prove you wrong! also the thumbnail was great 😂 I’ll keep Chapman in mind for the future.
@@PedalPlayhouse Nice!! I do hope to find a Gibson I can resonate with one day too 😃👍 I still have Gibson biases 😬 I've played a load, but only ever really loved one - A mate of mines 335. Don't know what it was but it was different 😎👌
@@stevecassidyguitaryeaaa I relate to that, it was a 339 blueberry burst that stole my heart. Classic 57’ pickups and 24.5 scale length and smaller body just fit like a glove.
Rich got me into Chapman guitars too Steve 👍🏻 You can’t criticise one until you’ve tried one, especially the new Pro models. I wasn’t too sure at first, but once I tried the ML3 Pro Traditional I was blown away by the overall quality and sound. Incredible value for money. I have three ML3’s now ( I’m mainly a Tele man), including a Thinline Pro Traditional in Ice Metallic with a P90 in the neck. It’s stunning! I have an American Fender Tele, a Mexican Fender Tele and a Japanese Fender Tele, and these Pro’s stand against them very well in my opinion 😀👍🏻 Absolutely love your Channel Steve 👍🏻👍🏻 Enjoyed watching your time in 42 Gear Street 👍🏻 All the best mate, Pete.
Thank ya so much mate! 😃🙏 and thanks for sharing! I'm really curious to check out one of the new ones from the new factory. Trev Wilkinson recommended the factory apparently, So i'll bet they're on to something good there. 👍
Having recently found your brilliant channel. My wife said wtf are you laughing at . I said Scottish Steve . She watched you ... She hates guitars . She laughed all the way through . Don't change mate . You are a one off . I subbuteod after seeing the 1st vid.
@@andiebetjemann7920 Ha! Cheers mate! 😂🙏 That's the daft stuff that takes me like 45mins for like 2 seconds pay off and usually no-one notices. Glad you did! 😀
The Chapman looks fantastic and it sounded terrific but it's a pity about the tuning issues, an easy fix though with new tuners and sorting out the nut, excellent review Steve. A shootout with the HB would be cool 👍🎸😄
Thank ya kindly sir! 😃🙏 You're right I could easy get the tuning issues looked at, and it probably wouldn't be too expensive either, but unfortunately it fell at the first hurdle with the weight 💪😬
Makes sense to me 🤷♂️ Seems a few guitars have it there - someone mentioned PRS too. That's another brand I have very little experience with so I failed to make the connection 🙈
Hard mount single coils look odd. I like the pickgaurd mounted option with covered blade connectors to the output jack and ground cable so pickup changes are easier cause you can have a second pickgaurd with different pickup setup.
Hear Hear! 😃👍 I keep hearing the Chapmans being compared to Sire in terms of Quality etc... Very keen to try a Sire one day 👍 I have a Sire Bass, but never tried a guitar
I tried a Chapman guitar a few years back. A T-style which had really bad fret sprout. Sounded good, but not a comfortable guitar to play. I haven't consciously avoided them since then, but I've not been champing at the bit to try another either. That one sounded good though. nd you said good things about the fretwork & the neck. Might have to take another look. Oh, and it's only an infinity symbol if it's on its side. The pedant in me sees it as a figure 8.
Ah good point Re the 8! I missed that 😂👍 Surprised to hear youi tried one with fret sprout, according to Rich - the Chapmans have a pretty good rep for fretboard and fret edges (It's 39 he's had now! 🤯). But yeah I suppose sprout could still occur on any guitar in the right/wrong conditions
I think I've took it as a 2nd guitar to the last 4 gigs to get some playing clips, but it's never made it out of the case 🙈 I'm struggling to get any filming done at gigs - I kinda need to get some help with that 🫤 I have been playing it off and on at home though. It's a grower 😁👍 Might be a while before I can get the vid out. I really want to get a gig clip in and I've got so much vids to put from gear street too and can still only manage one a week ☹️
I have ML1. It was my first Indonesian guitar, which was and is flawless, except pickups. I plan to replace pickups. My ml1 have a very very nice ebony fretboard,
Nice one mate! 😃👍 iirc, i think the orginal Chapman guitars were supposed to be good bare bones guitars and mods were encouraged, even from Chapman themselves. So a pickup change seems like a fitting choice sir 😎👍
I'm using the Line 5 HX Stomp XL and I "think" (iirc) it will likely be A Fender twin type amp with a TS808 type box in front. I used to include the signal chain stuff, but stopped as I'm not sure how useful that info is, with all the other stages of processing, YT file compression, then what people are hearing it on speakers/tv/phone/headfones etc But it's mainly just laziness because it takes longer 😆🙈
I fancied a Chapman with stainless steel frets, but the models with ss frets don't have fret markers. I couldn't be doing without those, so I swapped my PRS SE for a used one with nickel frets. It's ok.. but I hate the sticky neck lacquer. What were they thinking!?
This one has what feels like a satin urethane finish on the back - Feels great to me. But I do know what you mean about glossy/sticky necks - Not a fan either. I usually fix them with some steel wool, takes about 2mins - but is apprently not a recommended method 😬🤷♂️
@@stevecassidyguitarYes I've thought of doing that or using some fine grade sandpaper, but I haven't decided if I like the guitar enough to keep it and don't want to affect the resale value. Decisions! I enjoy your channel btw, keep it up 👍
I would never have own a Chapman! Anybody I know, or have ever seen who tried one, said they absolutely shouldn't suck. Plus, Chapman in s total tool, and choad!🤘😜🤘 Rock on my dude!
Thank ya kindly mate 😃🙏 It seems to be quite a mixed response here from Chapman fans and non-fans. and I think I do get it - from both sides. Easy for me to say from my comfortable position atop this fence 😜
Chapman Guitars are pretty rare on this side of the Pond. I haven't played one, I wouldn't mind trying them but they fall into the "Modern Fender Style" guitars which I like, but there are many of those over here in the US. I would be tempted to turn it into a Jangle Machine and I have several Jangle Machines already. I would own one if it was inexpensive or free, not sure what my limit would be on a Chapman but I have Strats and Teles covered over here.
Ooooft! 😂 That's bonkers! Rob should definitely be giving you some kinda badge or something when/if you hit 50 😁👍 Like a 50 meters swimming badge type thing... for your trunks 😎👍 But like... 50 Chapmans 😐 🤷♂️😂
I've noticed Chapman as well PRS guitars tend to put their pickup selector switches away at the back and this can make things difficult at times. I'm not a fan of the chapman reverse headstock either.
Maybe discontinued but it seems Chapman then like now are a work in progress.. never played any Chapman was surprised by the weight far too heavy! Comparison please.. have been playing my HB Fusion 3 a lot lately.. anyway great video hope you get the chance to play and review currently renamed Chapman guitars soon!🙂👍🎸
Had an ML1 a few years back. Bought on E Bay but couldn't take to it. Heavy, poor tuning stability and reverse headstock, meant i moved it on pretty quick!
I agree with the 12th fret marker, weird seems like an attempt to do do something different just for the sake of it. Its not a wifi router its a guitar
Never fancied a Chapman for a few reasons - reverse headstocks, usually flat fingerboard radius, more deisgned for high gain and, petty as it may seem, I don't like direct mounted pickups...that cutaway where you can see the mounting screw plays with my OCD. Needs a scratchplate or pickup rings at least !
That's fair enough mate 😎👍 Quite a few people have said the same thing about not loving the direct mount pickups look. I'm surprised it doesn't bother me - most things do 😂 But I did think the same things about the Chapmans, was cool to find this one with a 9.5" radius and I quite liked the pickups too - that was a surprise
Yes i have tried a Chapman, an ML1 Cap10 , i bought the first version which was more like a Ibanez RG but with a reverse headstock, rarely played it, then sold it for what i paid for it and tried the later model with a more rounded body, but the idiots had changed the pickups from Semour Duncans to a set of their own and that was a backwards step so i returned it . The reverse headstock is a pet hate of mine, so i have never been inclined to try another. Early Chapman guitars were not great with very dodgy electrics and many other issues, later models improved, but yet again for the newer range they have changed factories. They are an aquired taste, with better guitars available from HB at way lower prices. You don't always get what you pay for.😥
I always thought the Cap10 had some unexpected choices from mr Anderton. I always seen him as more of a traditional/vintage strat guy. The HSS, flat radius, reverse HS, hot pickups, - didn't seem like the right fit to me. But I don't know the guy so - who knows 🤷♂️
@@stevecassidyguitar yeah sorry. i have absolutely nothing against people who do like them. I'm sure they are great guitars. Just my own personal reasons. Maybe I am biased because I am a Rabea fan.
No, but I played a 10-string Chapman Stick back in the 90's, until Emmet Chapman and I had a heated phone conversation about my lack of support for his designs!
Nice! Was it Tony Levin that used to rock the Chapman stick? Also remeber it featuring on D'angelo's "Voodo" album "Spanish Joint" iirc 🤔 Sounded really cool, but don't think I would ever bother trying to play one. Respect to you sir! 🫡
Yes mate the all the ones are. Apparently the new factory came recommended by Trev Wilkinson, so I reckon they could be on to something rerally good there with the new models 👍
That's a lot of people saying thier Chapmans are heavy. Seems like it's a thing then, not just this guitar 😬 I agree that superstrats shouldn't be heavier than average 👍
@@stevecassidyguitar my vids are normally pretty short, unless I’m noodling, I guess I’m a get to the point kinda poo. Maybe that’s why I watch most everything in 2x ( except tone examples, those need to be real time) I gotta watch a lot of stuff to stay connected with reality, being a figment of someone else’s imagination isn’t easy!
Not struck on the look of Chapman guitars, but that's a personal thing and in no way affects how they sound or what they play like, since I know they are fairly decent in that regard. I don't like bare pickups coming through the body of flashily-finished guitars; to me it makes a guitar look like the scratchplate is missing, nor do I like slab-ended straight cut necks at the dusty end, especially on guitars with a curvaceous body as it is a very jarring design theme clash. This is also why, in spite of the practical nature of it, I don't like truss rod adjusters at that end of the neck, not that this particular guitar has that feature, since practical though they may be, they are fugly, especially when there is a scratchplate. Not a massive fan of roasted maple either for that matter, as it can result in wood which whilst it is seasoned (which is generally a good thing), can also be brittle when the roasting process is not well controlled (which is a very bad thing); I foresee potential problems with some guitars with not well controlled roasted maple necks in years to come as a result of that, although I could be wrong and they might be fine. I guess time will tell on that score, but in case it does prove to be true, I'll get my 'I told you so' in here early lol. For anyone who is curious about this, try breaking up a thirty or forty year old wooden wardrobe or chest of drawers if you ever have to take one to the tip. You'll find the wood is very dry and thus unlikely to warp, but you'll also find it will be really easy to smash the thing up because the wood is so brittle. Now imagine accidentally dropping or twatting the neck of your roasted maple neck guitar into an speaker stack in thirty years time when it is similarly brittle and you'll see why I think this might prove to be an issue going forward. But as I say, most of the above are personal preferences and not actual faults. However, a genuine problem for me with all the Chapman's I've handled, is that they are less than ideal for gigs, often being pretty heavy, which to be fair is just about tolerable if you have a decent strap and does negate nosedive at least (after all, it's still feather-light compared to my HB TE-52, which weighs slightly less than a fully-loaded Boeing 747), but the inescapably bad issue with those Chapmans, was the fret markers not being easily visible in a gig situation. For bedroom/studio players, or those who always play in broad daylight, I'm sure it would be fine, but for everyone else, fret markers need to unmistakeably visibly assist orientation quickly if you move about up and down on the frets when playing in low or changing light situations. Anyone who has accidentally slid up to the seventh rather than ninth fret, or vice versa in the middle of a song during a gig will know what I'm talking about. It's why I like Telecasters with maple necks with black fret marker inlays and Gibsons with rosewood or ebony fretboards and big mother of pearl (or in some cases mother of toilet seat plastic) block inlays, as there is no mistaking these in even really marginal lighting conditions. Having said that, there is no mistaking the octave fret marker. For about four and a half hundred quid and made in Korea or Indonesia where it's relatively economical to make guitars, I'd expect to see some pretty decent tuners on the thing as this, along with pickups and other hardware, is usually one of the aspects which puts other guitars made in similar factories into the 200 quid range. But this alone wouldn't put me off it if I wanted something like that, because at the end of the day it's a fifty quid fix and one which I've done to plenty of guitars. Admittedly this would take it up to 500 quid if new, but if I loved the looks and sounds of the thing, I'd regard that as worth doing. Additionally, not that it would bother me since I rarely, if ever, use a vibrato, but as you point out, since the thing is basically a Strat, which is a design that's been around since the Fifties, that's been more than enough time for things such as the vibrato arm covering the pickup selector if it's badly positioned, to have been well and truly known about and sorted out. Given that it's without a scratchplate - a feature whereby one cannot conceivably facilitate a move of the selector position even if it did need a bit of additional routing - that's a pretty bad bit of design, or rather the lack of design. The placement of the pickup selector controls on the original Fender Strat is something I'm not keen on owing to the fact that it is possible to be playing rhythm and accidentally move the selector when strumming, so this might explain why they shifted its position on the Chapman and if that's true then I'll give them props for at least thinking about that, but there are better places they could have chosen for anyone who does use vibrato, although for me personally who does not, that is undeniably an improved location. Beyond that, whilst there is something to be said for kissing a lot of frogs, if after 200 guitars someone has not found this a keeper, and others too have potentially owned it and similarly let it go, that doesn't really scream compliment, and for the money, there are undeniably better things out there.
Thank ya for taking the time to write your thoughts mate 😃🙏 Lots of great points well made here sir 🫡 I definitely agree on the squared off neck heel not being the best design cosmetically. Re the switch placement - if it requires more routing - that could only be a good thing imo as it could bring the weight down a tad too 😜 Funnily enough, Rich who I bought the guitar from, (It's 39 Chapmans he's had now 🤯🙈) wantted it back, so I sold it back to him. But... I'm not 100% sure if he still has it now 😂
Ive been going on about the position of the selector switch on the ml1s any time ive ever been near one lol. it's completely and utterly the wrong place end of story and they've never changed it.
Funny thing... I've heard the Marmite analogy a lot (just in general) I even use it sometimes, but personally, I've always been pretty much indifferent to Marmite - take it or leave it 😂🤷♂️
The headstock has been the major reason I've not tried any Chapman guitars yet. The whole reverse thing never appealed to me. They look odd. Like they haven't been thought out properly. Kinda half assed. The ML3 Pro in Burnt Orange was the only one I'd seriously considered.
That's fiar enough mate 😎👍 I think there's valid reasons for having a reverse headstock. Something to do with break angles or string tension or somthing? 🤷♂️ But even then it does still take a bit of getting used to - and I never really did. But they're not a complete dealbreaker for me.
I had the same issue Andrew mate regarding the headstock , but once you get past the headstock, wow, they are incredible guitars for the money. You soon get used to it too. I don’t think about the headstock anymore. The ML3 Pro Classic thinline has the headstock the right way round. It’s a real beauty. I have the Candy Ice Metallic 👍🏻👍🏻
I can definitely see the potential 👍 If it wasn't so heavy, I'd definitely give it a more fair chance and address the tuning issues. That wouldn't be too expensive of a fix either
"Have you tried a Chapman guitar?" Somebody elses ML2 (it was hanging up in a studio belonging to a friend). I disliked it. I thought it was extremely heavy, the neck profile was awful, and I didn't find any sounds with it that turned me on. I also feel the same way as you do about the infinity marker at the 12th fret. Other than than that, bland - neither good, nor bad. The owner was indifferent about the guitar and it gathered dust.
That's a shame. From these comments, it's lloking like it's more than just this one that's on the heavier side 😬 If it's too heavy then, It's usually a no go for me. I liked the pickus in this one more than I thought I would tho 😃👍
I think a decent wood butcher could have fashioned it into something more comfortable (a small stool, or clogs, or an ergonomic paddle for your coracle?). Maybe you could do a video on whether the weight of a guitar affects it's resonance - "the great mass-debate".
Agreed! But it's a bit of a catch 22. Companies try new designs and they don't sell. It's no surprise they always go back to the traditional shapes. Not saying it's a good or bad thing, just seems to be how the market is. Raises a good point though. I wonder what was the last (most recent) non-traditional shape to sell well and become mainstream🤔 Maybe the Revstar? 🤷♂️
Here’s my thing, when you’re talking about Asian made “budget” guitars, imho, I don’t care about brand names. There all made by in the same Cort, Samick, or WMI factories by the same people anyways. Just find one with the specs you like, looks the way you like and is at a price your willing to pay and you’ll be good to go. I’m not saying this as a knock on budget guitars, I have a Ibanez AX120FMT you can buy new for 230 bucks that made me sell the Gibson sg standard that it’s trying to copy and quite honestly I enjoy my squier telecaster more than my real fender one 😂
I get ya 👍 Not sure if what other guitars come the new factory in India that Chapman are now using. I know it came recommended by Trev Wilkinson, and I believe he might have something to do with it, so I reckon they'll be on to something good there
I know it sounds stupid but I just can't look at a Chapman without thinking about Rob Chapman and that just puts me off. Plus there has always been a lot of QC control issues with them.
It's not stupid mate - we can't help what we think, and us guitarists are very strange creatures 😜👍 The Rob Chapman association doesn't effect me personally. I was always kind of indifferent to him, but he did totally win me over when I met him at Birminghamm, was very genrous wth his time, and he's just a Guitar nerd at the core - I think 🤷♂️ I would like to check out one of the ones out of curiosity, the new factory was recommended by Trev Wilkinson apparently, so they could be on to something good now. But if they're too heavy - I'll have to pass. 😜
@@stevecassidyguitar That's fair enough, you've met him and I haven't. Maybe I'm just a dour Scotsman and his perky character is just too much for me to take!
Those dots all but disappear even in the video. Hate the 12th fret marker. Never tried Chapman or a reverse headstock. I do love the orange color flame top with roasted maple neck.
If they have it's news to me! 🫨 As far as I know - They've had a bit of a revamp - New Factory, New Models. All the new stuff is available now as far as I'm aware 🤷♂️
Different strokes for different folks an all that Jazz eh? I personally prefer the look of this one over the DP, but I still don't love the infinity inlay 😜
Yeah I did see that one. Turns out I'm a bit of a weirdo... KDH is one of my fave YT channels - absolutely love his stuff 👌 But I also don't dislike Rob Chapman 🤯
Oer here, they range from $1750 and upwards. Nice guitars but the price is just too high. The one you were playing seems a stay at home amd jam guitar.
I’ve tried a few Chapman guitar including this one, ghost fret and ml baritone….they don’t appeal to me, I don’t know why, they just don’t (and that’s before who I knew who Rob Chapman was) Didn’t like the feel and I can’t explain why 9’s? Damn they’re light. Normally run 12’s
@@stevecassidyguitar because my hands are like dustbins so feel more comfortable playing telephone cables fair respect to ya pal, I love that it takes alsorts to make the world go round
I cannot take to the look of Chapman guitars at all. They all just look like they were designed by a committee of teenagers from 1998 using PS1 game software
@@stevecassidyguitar definitely sir. I've made my living for the past 35 years playing and working on guitars. I still love it till this day. Great channel by the way.
Wonder why RC courts so much negative publicity. Personally he strikes me as a deeply disingenuous person. That’s the main reason I would avoid his products
In stark contrast, you come across as very genuine. Really enjoy your content and humour. Wish your lighting was more natural so I can see the finish of the guitars unfiltered. Thank you 👍🏽
@@entropy6981 Thank ya kindly mate! I've not been at this long... I've still got plenty time to £u(k up! 😂 Re the lighting I'm using the cheapest ever LED lights from amazon and I do add quite a lot of colour to try and make the vids more vibrant and cartoon like. But I could probably do some better B roll shots of the Guitars in amongst that with more natural light. It takes more time though 😬
Luckily for me, that's not effected my opinion on the guitars 😅 Chappers is an OG of the ole YT Guitar realm. From making Guitar vids in his bedroom to starting his own Guitar Company, he's probably been in thousands of vids between his channel and andertons. You're bound to f*c* up at some point 😂 (I know I would 😜) It wouldn't be fun for me if a Guitar made me angry. Soz - I'm not a massive Chappers fan boi or anything, and soz to be taking this out on you, (I'm not) but just had a load of comments in a row similar to yours, and I do totally get it, but I just can't allow myself to hate on anyone that hard. Life's too short n' all that jazz 🙏 Apologies again - Rant over pleasse don't take this as a direct response to you - I'm just venting here 🙏
@@tadge74 Yup... I sat on that comment for a while debating wether to post 🙈 Probably shouldn't have, but ach well - I've said my bit on it, that'll do 🤷♂😬 Message recieved tho sir 🫡
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Soz ... Currently playing a gig. 😬Will answer ALL comments tomorrow 😃🙏
Another cracking instalment mate, very insightful as always. Keep up the great work!!
Thank you so much as always mate! 😃🙏
Sick tones Bigman!
Thank ya kindly ya legend! 😃🙏
I’ve only had the chance to try one recently st Guitar Guitar. It sounded and played great. The pickups were a tad hot for me, but I was impressed.
Nice one - Can you remeber the model? 😃
@@stevecassidyguitar I think it was an ML1
@@GraemeCampbellMusic Nice one - I was in Guitar Guitar Edinburgh the other day too 😃
Really appreciate your honesty ! You will go far, young man !
Thank ya kindly mate! 😃🙏
Great video as always 👍
I have one just like yours, only in the Abyss purple/blue. It’s a wonderful guitar, and really well made.
Just like you, I’m not too pleased with the barely visible fret markers, and the switch placement.
But I love it, and every guitar collector needs a Chapman guitar in the collection 😊
Thank ya kindly mate! 😃👍
I love that purple blue finish one too! Would love it even more with a 9.5" roasted maple fretboard though 😁
Rich would agree with you, although he's maybe say - every guitarist needs at least 39 Chapmans 😜
So glad you picked up a Chapman, was nice to meet you at the Birmingham show! I'm sorry you had issue with this second (Maybe Third) hand model, hopefully see you at Guitar Summit.
Thanks for watching Mr ManChap! 😃🙏
Please do a comparison video on the HB Fusion vs The Chapman👍. Great comments re the 12th fret infinity logo 🤣
Cheers mate! 😃🙏
I've kinda sold the Fusion 😬 I might have already filmed the comparison though -I can't remember 🙈
5:48 I definitely hit that like button with my green cactus thumb fingery arse stump thing, and why wouldn't you!
Thank ya so much for contributing your parsnippy digit - much appreciated 😃🙏
Chapman guitars well appointed and price is very reasonable. That's a nice guitar Steve! Thanks for sharing!
Cheers mate! 😃🙏 It's been quite a mixed response here Re Chapman guitars. It seems to be around 65% positive, like yours (So far). But some people reeaaally don't like em 😂
@@stevecassidyguitar their loss mate. Cheers!
Hi, that baritone guy here again. I actually suggested to Chapman that they should do baritones, and was absolutely stunned that they actually did it! I've owned 2 (both from the same factory as the one demonstrated here) . The rolled fretboard edges are absolutely stellar, I've never held better examples in my hands. , playability is really high.
Adversely, I do totally agree that the controls (apart from the volume) are all in places that impede accessibility significantly . I also detest upside down headstocks because, to this day, they force me to stand on stage in public turning my head upside down like some sort of bizarre part-human-part-owl person to tune up, as you can tell , I'm not comfortable with that and will not be buying any more chapmans as a result.
Some stellar finishes that did have something for me, despite their 8 year refusal to do plain and simple black.
Oh and finally the "sonorous" pickups are absolute mud, I will always consider them mere place holders.
I once thought I was a fan... but it turns out it was really just about the fretboard & playability and nothing else.
Well said !
"part-human-part-owl person" Love it! 😂🤣👌
Glad to see the variety of guitars. I've never played a Chapman, but the one sounds great.
Thank ya kindly sir! 😃🙏 Different brand but yet another HSS strat - soz😂🙈
The pickups were definitely the highlight for me on this one too 👍
It's quite exciting to see some hand-me-down guitars from other UA-camrs! I actually recently bought John Cordy's LP style Sire L7 and I'm looking forward to see the rolled fingerboard edge hype.
P.S. definitely want to see the comparison with Harley Benton Fusion!
Nice one mate! please let me know if it can make you sound like John Cordy! 😃 If it does, I'm buying whatever he's selling next on his ebay store (as long as it's not too heavy 😜).
I kinda already sold the HB Fusion 🙈 But I might have already filmed the comparison - I actually can't remember 🙈
Hi Steve, I'm not really a Strat type person but I quite liked the sound of this one. A very cool looking guitar too. That little strum thing you did at around nine minutes in sounded stunning. I've never had a Chapman guitar in my hands but I think I'd quite fancy having a go. Thanks for a good honest look at it.
Thank ya kindly sir! 😃🙏
Although this one wasn't for me - I'd still say they're worth a look if you like the specs etc 👍
That sounds rad, I like the color too! I had a strong opinion about a brand too at one point and then I played one that I finally bonded with. I can say I’m still not a fan girl but never say never on guitars they may say “hold my beer” and prove you wrong! also the thumbnail was great 😂 I’ll keep Chapman in mind for the future.
Thank ya Jo! 😃🙏
Do we get to know what the brand was? 😜
@@stevecassidyguitarI will confess my sin, it’s a Gibson.
@@PedalPlayhouse Nice!! I do hope to find a Gibson I can resonate with one day too 😃👍
I still have Gibson biases 😬 I've played a load, but only ever really loved one - A mate of mines 335. Don't know what it was but it was different 😎👌
@@stevecassidyguitaryeaaa I relate to that, it was a 339 blueberry burst that stole my heart. Classic 57’ pickups and 24.5 scale length and smaller body just fit like a glove.
@@PedalPlayhouse Awesome - I love the Blueberry burst finish too - Right up my street 🤩👌
Rich got me into Chapman guitars too Steve 👍🏻
You can’t criticise one until you’ve tried one, especially the new Pro models. I wasn’t too sure at first, but once I tried the ML3 Pro Traditional I was blown away by the overall quality and sound. Incredible value for money.
I have three ML3’s now ( I’m mainly a Tele man), including a Thinline Pro Traditional in Ice Metallic with a P90 in the neck. It’s stunning! I have an American Fender Tele, a Mexican Fender Tele and a Japanese Fender Tele, and these Pro’s stand against them very well in my opinion 😀👍🏻
Absolutely love your Channel Steve 👍🏻👍🏻
Enjoyed watching your time in 42 Gear Street 👍🏻
All the best mate,
Pete.
Thank ya so much mate! 😃🙏
and thanks for sharing! I'm really curious to check out one of the new ones from the new factory. Trev Wilkinson recommended the factory apparently, So i'll bet they're on to something good there. 👍
Having recently found your brilliant channel. My wife said wtf are you laughing at . I said Scottish Steve . She watched you ... She hates guitars . She laughed all the way through . Don't change mate . You are a one off . I subbuteod after seeing the 1st vid.
Awww mate! Thank you so much! 😃🙏 Honestly means so much to get positive feedback like this. You (and your Mrs) have made my day 😃🙏
I never tried a Chapman, but in admire the effort you did with the Chapters-Graphic.
@@andiebetjemann7920 Ha! Cheers mate! 😂🙏 That's the daft stuff that takes me like 45mins for like 2 seconds pay off and usually no-one notices. Glad you did! 😀
The Chapman looks fantastic and it sounded terrific but it's a pity about the tuning issues, an easy fix though with new tuners and sorting out the nut, excellent review Steve. A shootout with the HB would be cool 👍🎸😄
Thank ya kindly sir! 😃🙏
You're right I could easy get the tuning issues looked at, and it probably wouldn't be too expensive either, but unfortunately it fell at the first hurdle with the weight 💪😬
12:06 exactly the same issue with my LTD🤣 the traditional strat pickup selector position is still the best and the quickest!
Makes sense to me 🤷♂️ Seems a few guitars have it there - someone mentioned PRS too. That's another brand I have very little experience with so I failed to make the connection 🙈
I miss it now you’re playing it so well 😂
You miss it!?! Have you moved it on again? 😂🙈
Thank ya btw 😃🙏
Recently got a 2023 ml1 X Pro ,and it's quality,can't fault it,such high spec for the price,love it👍🏻
Nice one mate - Glad you're happy with yours 😃👍
I can definitely see the appeal 👍
Hard mount single coils look odd. I like the pickgaurd mounted option with covered blade connectors to the output jack and ground cable so pickup changes are easier cause you can have a second pickgaurd with different pickup setup.
Definitely more convenient 😎👍
What a great video have a wonderful weekend Steve also how is your day going ❤😊
Thank ya somuch mate! All good here - thanks for asking, I got up late after a late night gig last night 😴 Hope you weekend is going great! 👍
Absolutely it good Sunday is my mom birthday ❤😊
@@aminahmed2220 Nice one! Happy Birthday to your Mum tomorrow 🥳🎈🎂
perhaps the inlay is a hommage to your glasses
Ha!! It more than likely will be 🤓😂👍
I had an ML1-X Limited Satin that had the Seymour Duncans. One of 50 made. Should have kept it but I was not into the reverse headstock.
1 of 50! Wow that's a small run. But if you didn't love it... fair enough mate 😎👍
I’d put them around the same level as a Sire. They’re good working instruments for sure. Put aside any feelings (good or bad) about the brand/owner.
Hear Hear! 😃👍
I keep hearing the Chapmans being compared to Sire in terms of Quality etc... Very keen to try a Sire one day 👍
I have a Sire Bass, but never tried a guitar
@@stevecassidyguitar you’re weclome
I tried a Chapman guitar a few years back. A T-style which had really bad fret sprout. Sounded good, but not a comfortable guitar to play. I haven't consciously avoided them since then, but I've not been champing at the bit to try another either. That one sounded good though. nd you said good things about the fretwork & the neck. Might have to take another look. Oh, and it's only an infinity symbol if it's on its side. The pedant in me sees it as a figure 8.
Ah good point Re the 8! I missed that 😂👍
Surprised to hear youi tried one with fret sprout, according to Rich - the Chapmans have a pretty good rep for fretboard and fret edges (It's 39 he's had now! 🤯). But yeah I suppose sprout could still occur on any guitar in the right/wrong conditions
Ml 3 traditional with p90 in the neck is a gem...
No issue with the sticky neck lacquer? I hate it. Also the high E string is too close to the edge of the fretboard on mine
Cheers! 🍻
Interesting... Hows the weight?
Whats happening with the js 480??
I think I've took it as a 2nd guitar to the last 4 gigs to get some playing clips, but it's never made it out of the case 🙈
I'm struggling to get any filming done at gigs - I kinda need to get some help with that 🫤
I have been playing it off and on at home though. It's a grower 😁👍
Might be a while before I can get the vid out. I really want to get a gig clip in and I've got so much vids to put from gear street too and can still only manage one a week ☹️
i recently got an ML2 (first batch) and an ML1 pro modern, they are good instruments.
Nice one mate 😃👍
Glad to hear you're happy with yours - I can definitely see the appeal of the chapmans 😎👍
“I prefer vintage voiced pickups” meanwhile, I dropped 70’s tribute custombuckers in my Michael Kelly and now it’s neck pickup is 16k. I love it.
Nice one! Rock on mate! 😎👌
I have ML1. It was my first Indonesian guitar, which was and is flawless, except pickups. I plan to replace pickups. My ml1 have a very very nice ebony fretboard,
Nice one mate! 😃👍 iirc, i think the orginal Chapman guitars were supposed to be good bare bones guitars and mods were encouraged, even from Chapman themselves. So a pickup change seems like a fitting choice sir 😎👍
5:25 Sound like Marshall JCM 800 ? 🤔
I'm using the Line 5 HX Stomp XL and I "think" (iirc) it will likely be A Fender twin type amp with a TS808 type box in front.
I used to include the signal chain stuff, but stopped as I'm not sure how useful that info is, with all the other stages of processing, YT file compression, then what people are hearing it on speakers/tv/phone/headfones etc
But it's mainly just laziness because it takes longer 😆🙈
I fancied a Chapman with stainless steel frets, but the models with ss frets don't have fret markers. I couldn't be doing without those, so I swapped my PRS SE for a used one with nickel frets. It's ok.. but I hate the sticky neck lacquer. What were they thinking!?
This one has what feels like a satin urethane finish on the back - Feels great to me. But I do know what you mean about glossy/sticky necks - Not a fan either.
I usually fix them with some steel wool, takes about 2mins - but is apprently not a recommended method 😬🤷♂️
@@stevecassidyguitarYes I've thought of doing that or using some fine grade sandpaper, but I haven't decided if I like the guitar enough to keep it and don't want to affect the resale value. Decisions! I enjoy your channel btw, keep it up 👍
@@Jim-ux9lg That makes sense mate 😎👍 and thank ya kindly 😃🙏
I would never have own a Chapman! Anybody I know, or have ever seen who tried one, said they absolutely shouldn't suck. Plus, Chapman in s total tool, and choad!🤘😜🤘 Rock on my dude!
Thank ya kindly mate 😃🙏
It seems to be quite a mixed response here from Chapman fans and non-fans.
and I think I do get it - from both sides.
Easy for me to say from my comfortable position atop this fence 😜
Chapman Guitars are pretty rare on this side of the Pond. I haven't played one, I wouldn't mind trying them but they fall into the "Modern Fender Style" guitars which I like, but there are many of those over here in the US.
I would be tempted to turn it into a Jangle Machine and I have several Jangle Machines already. I would own one if it was inexpensive or free, not sure what my limit would be on a Chapman but I have Strats and Teles covered over here.
There's always room for more "Jangle Machines" ! - Love that 😂👍
39 Chapman’s now
Ooooft! 😂 That's bonkers!
Rob should definitely be giving you some kinda badge or something when/if you hit 50 😁👍
Like a 50 meters swimming badge type thing... for your trunks 😎👍
But like... 50 Chapmans 😐
🤷♂️😂
Tele reverse headstock on a Superstrat doesn’t jive with me.
Yeah It wouldn't be my first choice either
I've noticed Chapman as well PRS guitars tend to put their pickup selector switches away at the back and this can make things difficult at times. I'm not a fan of the chapman reverse headstock either.
I'd love to hear an explanation of why the switch is there. I'm genuinely curious 🤔 I must be missing something 🤷♂️
I could not buy one as Chapman seems to be the love child of David Brent and Alan Partridge. Plus the headstock has that ridiculous signature.
I love both Brent & partridge 😂😂
@@stevecassidyguitar me too I just don't want a guitar made by their love child.
@@liamhemmings9039 😂🤣👌
@@liamhemmings9039 he's Jackie Daytona, regular human guitar player
Maybe discontinued but it seems Chapman then like now are a work in progress.. never played any Chapman was surprised by the weight far too heavy! Comparison please.. have been playing my HB Fusion 3 a lot lately.. anyway great video hope you get the chance to play and review currently renamed Chapman guitars soon!🙂👍🎸
Oh that's interesting! So they're heavy across the board? I didn't realise that, I thought it might have been just this one 😬
Cheers mate! 😃👍
Had an ML1 a few years back. Bought on E Bay but couldn't take to it. Heavy, poor tuning stability and reverse headstock, meant i moved it on pretty quick!
That sounds very familiar! 😁👍
I agree with the 12th fret marker, weird seems like an attempt to do do something different just for the sake of it. Its not a wifi router its a guitar
I suppose the only benefit is, it's reliable, it's always there. Unlike my Virgin broadband service 😜
The damage Chapman did to his image with his little "online power" video is enough to put me off the guitars for life.
That's fair enough mate 👍
Btw love that pink Floyd type riff
Thank ya kindly mate 😀🙏
Never fancied a Chapman for a few reasons - reverse headstocks, usually flat fingerboard radius, more deisgned for high gain and, petty as it may seem, I don't like direct mounted pickups...that cutaway where you can see the mounting screw plays with my OCD. Needs a scratchplate or pickup rings at least !
That's fair enough mate 😎👍
Quite a few people have said the same thing about not loving the direct mount pickups look.
I'm surprised it doesn't bother me - most things do 😂
But I did think the same things about the Chapmans, was cool to find this one with a 9.5" radius and I quite liked the pickups too - that was a surprise
Yes i have tried a Chapman, an ML1 Cap10 , i bought the first version which was more like a Ibanez RG
but with a reverse headstock, rarely played it, then sold it for what i paid for it and tried the later model
with a more rounded body, but the idiots had changed the pickups from Semour Duncans to a set of their
own and that was a backwards step so i returned it .
The reverse headstock is a pet hate of mine, so i have never been inclined to try another.
Early Chapman guitars were not great with very dodgy electrics and many other issues, later models
improved, but yet again for the newer range they have changed factories.
They are an aquired taste, with better guitars available from HB at way lower prices.
You don't always get what you pay for.😥
I always thought the Cap10 had some unexpected choices from mr Anderton. I always seen him as more of a traditional/vintage strat guy. The HSS, flat radius, reverse HS, hot pickups, - didn't seem like the right fit to me. But I don't know the guy so - who knows 🤷♂️
My 2023 ml1 X Pro is made in Korea
Can't do it. Rob chapman's the reason.
That's fair enough mate - A few people here share your view too 👍
It doesn't put me off - but the weight does 😜👍
@@stevecassidyguitar yeah sorry. i have absolutely nothing against people who do like them. I'm sure they are great guitars. Just my own personal reasons. Maybe I am biased because I am a Rabea fan.
@@matthewearl9824 No need to apologise mate! I love Rabeas playing too! He's a massive Nuno fan too, so that's extra bonus points 😁👍
No, but I played a 10-string Chapman Stick back in the 90's, until Emmet Chapman and I had a heated phone conversation about my lack of support for his designs!
Nice! Was it Tony Levin that used to rock the Chapman stick?
Also remeber it featuring on D'angelo's "Voodo" album "Spanish Joint" iirc 🤔
Sounded really cool, but don't think I would ever bother trying to play one. Respect to you sir! 🫡
@@stevecassidyguitar Yeah, Tony Levin might be one of the highest profile players, particularly when he was playing with Peter Gabriel all the time.
@@Markleford How could I forget PG !? 🙈 Soz. Responded after getting home froma late gig 😴
They are made in India. I fitted the Ibanez suregrip knobs to my Chapman ML1 pro modern, much better!
Yes mate the all the ones are. Apparently the new factory came recommended by Trev Wilkinson, so I reckon they could be on to something rerally good there with the new models 👍
I thought the intro was going to be Falconhoof
😂👌 Sorry to dissapoint.
Great idea for future though - cheers 😁👍
Tried a ML1 Pro X, excellent in many ways but really really heavy for a superstrat style guitar.
That's a lot of people saying thier Chapmans are heavy. Seems like it's a thing then, not just this guitar 😬
I agree that superstrats shouldn't be heavier than average 👍
My conclusion are don’t pre judge, always try before you buy… or move it along to someone who will love it if you buy before you try.
Nailed it! You could have edited this vid down to 3 seconds for me 😁👌
@@stevecassidyguitar my vids are normally pretty short, unless I’m noodling, I guess I’m a get to the point kinda poo. Maybe that’s why I watch most everything in 2x ( except tone examples, those need to be real time) I gotta watch a lot of stuff to stay connected with reality, being a figment of someone else’s imagination isn’t easy!
@@PooNinja I didn't even know you had a channel! I'm so ignorant, I thought you were just a serial commenter.
Subbed 😃👍
Scottish Steve, or Ginger Jesus....?
❤❤❤😂🎸🎸🎶
😂
Stinger Scotus? 🤷♂️
Sounds a bit latin 😆
@@stevecassidyguitar domine gingus.... 🤣
Not struck on the look of Chapman guitars, but that's a personal thing and in no way affects how they sound or what they play like, since I know they are fairly decent in that regard.
I don't like bare pickups coming through the body of flashily-finished guitars; to me it makes a guitar look like the scratchplate is missing, nor do I like slab-ended straight cut necks at the dusty end, especially on guitars with a curvaceous body as it is a very jarring design theme clash. This is also why, in spite of the practical nature of it, I don't like truss rod adjusters at that end of the neck, not that this particular guitar has that feature, since practical though they may be, they are fugly, especially when there is a scratchplate.
Not a massive fan of roasted maple either for that matter, as it can result in wood which whilst it is seasoned (which is generally a good thing), can also be brittle when the roasting process is not well controlled (which is a very bad thing); I foresee potential problems with some guitars with not well controlled roasted maple necks in years to come as a result of that, although I could be wrong and they might be fine. I guess time will tell on that score, but in case it does prove to be true, I'll get my 'I told you so' in here early lol.
For anyone who is curious about this, try breaking up a thirty or forty year old wooden wardrobe or chest of drawers if you ever have to take one to the tip. You'll find the wood is very dry and thus unlikely to warp, but you'll also find it will be really easy to smash the thing up because the wood is so brittle. Now imagine accidentally dropping or twatting the neck of your roasted maple neck guitar into an speaker stack in thirty years time when it is similarly brittle and you'll see why I think this might prove to be an issue going forward.
But as I say, most of the above are personal preferences and not actual faults. However, a genuine problem for me with all the Chapman's I've handled, is that they are less than ideal for gigs, often being pretty heavy, which to be fair is just about tolerable if you have a decent strap and does negate nosedive at least (after all, it's still feather-light compared to my HB TE-52, which weighs slightly less than a fully-loaded Boeing 747), but the inescapably bad issue with those Chapmans, was the fret markers not being easily visible in a gig situation. For bedroom/studio players, or those who always play in broad daylight, I'm sure it would be fine, but for everyone else, fret markers need to unmistakeably visibly assist orientation quickly if you move about up and down on the frets when playing in low or changing light situations. Anyone who has accidentally slid up to the seventh rather than ninth fret, or vice versa in the middle of a song during a gig will know what I'm talking about. It's why I like Telecasters with maple necks with black fret marker inlays and Gibsons with rosewood or ebony fretboards and big mother of pearl (or in some cases mother of toilet seat plastic) block inlays, as there is no mistaking these in even really marginal lighting conditions. Having said that, there is no mistaking the octave fret marker.
For about four and a half hundred quid and made in Korea or Indonesia where it's relatively economical to make guitars, I'd expect to see some pretty decent tuners on the thing as this, along with pickups and other hardware, is usually one of the aspects which puts other guitars made in similar factories into the 200 quid range. But this alone wouldn't put me off it if I wanted something like that, because at the end of the day it's a fifty quid fix and one which I've done to plenty of guitars. Admittedly this would take it up to 500 quid if new, but if I loved the looks and sounds of the thing, I'd regard that as worth doing.
Additionally, not that it would bother me since I rarely, if ever, use a vibrato, but as you point out, since the thing is basically a Strat, which is a design that's been around since the Fifties, that's been more than enough time for things such as the vibrato arm covering the pickup selector if it's badly positioned, to have been well and truly known about and sorted out. Given that it's without a scratchplate - a feature whereby one cannot conceivably facilitate a move of the selector position even if it did need a bit of additional routing - that's a pretty bad bit of design, or rather the lack of design. The placement of the pickup selector controls on the original Fender Strat is something I'm not keen on owing to the fact that it is possible to be playing rhythm and accidentally move the selector when strumming, so this might explain why they shifted its position on the Chapman and if that's true then I'll give them props for at least thinking about that, but there are better places they could have chosen for anyone who does use vibrato, although for me personally who does not, that is undeniably an improved location.
Beyond that, whilst there is something to be said for kissing a lot of frogs, if after 200 guitars someone has not found this a keeper, and others too have potentially owned it and similarly let it go, that doesn't really scream compliment, and for the money, there are undeniably better things out there.
Thank ya for taking the time to write your thoughts mate 😃🙏
Lots of great points well made here sir 🫡
I definitely agree on the squared off neck heel not being the best design cosmetically.
Re the switch placement - if it requires more routing - that could only be a good thing imo as it could bring the weight down a tad too 😜
Funnily enough, Rich who I bought the guitar from, (It's 39 Chapmans he's had now 🤯🙈) wantted it back, so I sold it back to him. But... I'm not 100% sure if he still has it now 😂
Ive been going on about the position of the selector switch on the ml1s any time ive ever been near one lol. it's completely and utterly the wrong place end of story and they've never changed it.
I'd love to hear an explanation of why it is where it is. We obvs don't get it, but maybe I'm missing something 🤷♂️
Geniunely curious about it
Unfortunately Chapman himself is marmite and I don't like marmite .🤢🤮
Funny thing... I've heard the Marmite analogy a lot (just in general) I even use it sometimes, but personally, I've always been pretty much indifferent to Marmite - take it or leave it 😂🤷♂️
Agreed with that 12th fret inlay. Not good.
I get it - it's the ole marketing/branding thing, and a cosmetic choice which is always gonna be subjective. But I'm not a fan 😬
i think rob is too much of a menace for me to get behind his instruments 😂
How about grabbing a used one? 😜
@@stevecassidyguitar they do look real nice i will say that
The headstock has been the major reason I've not tried any Chapman guitars yet. The whole reverse thing never appealed to me. They look odd. Like they haven't been thought out properly. Kinda half assed. The ML3 Pro in Burnt Orange was the only one I'd seriously considered.
That's fiar enough mate 😎👍 I think there's valid reasons for having a reverse headstock. Something to do with break angles or string tension or somthing? 🤷♂️ But even then it does still take a bit of getting used to - and I never really did. But they're not a complete dealbreaker for me.
I had the same issue Andrew mate regarding the headstock , but once you get past the headstock, wow, they are incredible guitars for the money. You soon get used to it too. I don’t think about the headstock anymore. The ML3 Pro Classic thinline has the headstock the right way round. It’s a real beauty. I have the Candy Ice Metallic 👍🏻👍🏻
i think the mid priced chapmans are great guitars
I can definitely see the potential 👍 If it wasn't so heavy, I'd definitely give it a more fair chance and address the tuning issues. That wouldn't be too expensive of a fix either
@@stevecassidyguitar i found that those chapmans cut through the mix well i used one for a while until i bought a les paul
@@pentatonicpaddy I did like the pickups way more than I thought I would 😎👍
"Have you tried a Chapman guitar?"
Somebody elses ML2 (it was hanging up in a studio belonging to a friend). I disliked it. I thought it was extremely heavy, the neck profile was awful, and I didn't find any sounds with it that turned me on. I also feel the same way as you do about the infinity marker at the 12th fret. Other than than that, bland - neither good, nor bad. The owner was indifferent about the guitar and it gathered dust.
That's a shame. From these comments, it's lloking like it's more than just this one that's on the heavier side 😬
If it's too heavy then, It's usually a no go for me. I liked the pickus in this one more than I thought I would tho 😃👍
I think a decent wood butcher could have fashioned it into something more comfortable (a small stool, or clogs, or an ergonomic paddle for your coracle?). Maybe you could do a video on whether the weight of a guitar affects it's resonance - "the great mass-debate".
@@parsnipfingers 🤣😂👌
I definitel do not wan't to throw my hat into that debate. Tis Futile!
😇😁
Ha ha Steve 😂
Apologies - I know I got some facts wrong 🙈 Vid onlt took about 7 months to get done too - soz 😂🙈
From what I believe Chapman have now shifted production to India along with somewhat of a rebrand.
That's spot on mate 👍 The new factory came recommended from Trev Wilkinson, So I reckon they could be on to something really good now 😃👍
All these companies essentially make Fender and Gibson copies it is all one big plagiarism. We need more companies with unique designs.
Agreed! But it's a bit of a catch 22. Companies try new designs and they don't sell.
It's no surprise they always go back to the traditional shapes. Not saying it's a good or bad thing, just seems to be how the market is.
Raises a good point though. I wonder what was the last (most recent) non-traditional shape to sell well and become mainstream🤔
Maybe the Revstar? 🤷♂️
Here’s my thing, when you’re talking about Asian made “budget” guitars, imho, I don’t care about brand names. There all made by in the same Cort, Samick, or WMI factories by the same people anyways. Just find one with the specs you like, looks the way you like and is at a price your willing to pay and you’ll be good to go. I’m not saying this as a knock on budget guitars, I have a Ibanez AX120FMT you can buy new for 230 bucks that made me sell the Gibson sg standard that it’s trying to copy and quite honestly I enjoy my squier telecaster more than my real fender one 😂
I get ya 👍
Not sure if what other guitars come the new factory in India that Chapman are now using. I know it came recommended by Trev Wilkinson, and I believe he might have something to do with it, so I reckon they'll be on to something good there
I know it sounds stupid but I just can't look at a Chapman without thinking about Rob Chapman and that just puts me off. Plus there has always been a lot of QC control issues with them.
It's not stupid mate - we can't help what we think, and us guitarists are very strange creatures 😜👍
The Rob Chapman association doesn't effect me personally. I was always kind of indifferent to him, but he did totally win me over when I met him at Birminghamm, was very genrous wth his time, and he's just a Guitar nerd at the core - I think 🤷♂️
I would like to check out one of the ones out of curiosity, the new factory was recommended by Trev Wilkinson apparently, so they could be on to something good now. But if they're too heavy - I'll have to pass. 😜
@@stevecassidyguitar That's fair enough, you've met him and I haven't. Maybe I'm just a dour Scotsman and his perky character is just too much for me to take!
@@gedellis701 I can definitely relate to being a dour Scotsman 😆👍 especially today! Sleep deprived after a late gig last night 😴
@@stevecassidyguitar ha ha ha!
Get some kip.
Those dots all but disappear even in the video. Hate the 12th fret marker. Never tried Chapman or a reverse headstock.
I do love the orange color flame top with roasted maple neck.
Yeah they're definitely not easy to see - even with fake glasses on 🤓🙈
I love the finish too 😎👌
Haven't chapman guitars ceased production?
If they have it's news to me! 🫨
As far as I know - They've had a bit of a revamp - New Factory, New Models. All the new stuff is available now as far as I'm aware 🤷♂️
I think they all look cheesy. Except for the Danish Pete model Tele.
Different strokes for different folks an all that Jazz eh? I personally prefer the look of this one over the DP, but I still don't love the infinity inlay 😜
8.4lbs! That's silly heavy for a Tele headed, Strat shaped thing. Maybe that's why it's discontinued....
It could be 😂
Some other comments have said their Chapmans are heavey too. Maybe it's "a thing" and not just this one 😬🤷♂️
Having watched the KDH video about Rob Chapman I wouldn't touch anything he's involved in. Watch it and see what you think.
Yeah I did see that one. Turns out I'm a bit of a weirdo... KDH is one of my fave YT channels - absolutely love his stuff 👌
But I also don't dislike Rob Chapman 🤯
Oer here, they range from $1750 and upwards. Nice guitars but the price is just too high. The one you were playing seems a stay at home amd jam guitar.
Yeeesh! That's a lot of canada coin! 😬
That would definitely be a no go for me too at that price.
@@stevecassidyguitar I like that they aspire to greatness. Others are doing it waaay cheaper. They need to look around and reassess.
@@calbrockocat8728 I agree. At thier current price point competition is fierce, and like you say even at lower price points
I’ve tried a few Chapman guitar including this one, ghost fret and ml baritone….they don’t appeal to me, I don’t know why, they just don’t (and that’s before who I knew who Rob Chapman was)
Didn’t like the feel and I can’t explain why
9’s? Damn they’re light. Normally run 12’s
That's fair enough mate 👍
Yeah I'm a weak n feeble 9's guy 💪😬
@@stevecassidyguitar because my hands are like dustbins so feel more comfortable playing telephone cables
fair respect to ya pal, I love that it takes alsorts to make the world go round
@@AVM-Music 😂🙏
@@stevecassidyguitar you’re much more articulate with whatever gauge you’re using than I am, that’s for certain
I cannot take to the look of Chapman guitars at all. They all just look like they were designed by a committee of teenagers from 1998 using PS1 game software
I'm not saying I agree - but that was a hilarious description😂🤣👌
I'd never buy a Chapman guitar. I dislike the owner and wouldn't want to give the guy any of my hard earned money.
That's fair enough mate 👍 Can't argue with that.
Personally I don't dislike the guy. But each to thier own - we're all pals and guitar nerds here 😃👍
@@stevecassidyguitar definitely sir. I've made my living for the past 35 years playing and working on guitars. I still love it till this day. Great channel by the way.
@@Ray-lk7lc Thank ya kindly mate! 😃🙏
My lord that's a monstrously looking headstock on that thing. Quite distracting it's.
I just want it to hang straight on a standard (cheap 😜) wall hanger
HB fusions seem to be better value for average players like me.
I don't think your skill level matters at all - play whatever ya love and can afford i say 😃👍
But yeah HB Fusions are still great 😁👍
@stevecassidyguitar 100% .I could never justify spending too much on a guitar for my level of ability.
I find Rob so repugnant that I have no desire to support his bussiness
That's fair enough mate 👍
Wonder why RC courts so much negative publicity. Personally he strikes me as a deeply disingenuous person. That’s the main reason I would avoid his products
That's fair enough mate 👍
In stark contrast, you come across as very genuine. Really enjoy your content and humour. Wish your lighting was more natural so I can see the finish of the guitars unfiltered. Thank you 👍🏽
@@entropy6981 Thank ya kindly mate! I've not been at this long... I've still got plenty time to £u(k up! 😂
Re the lighting I'm using the cheapest ever LED lights from amazon and I do add quite a lot of colour to try and make the vids more vibrant and cartoon like. But I could probably do some better B roll shots of the Guitars in amongst that with more natural light. It takes more time though 😬
You "took his hand off"? Seems a cruel thing to do to a guitar player....
😂😂👍
Turns out I'd only borrowed his hand - I ended up selling him this one back 😂👍 He was missing it too much
Virgin Media inlay 🤣
Branson has called his lawyers 😜
I don't like Chapman and his guitars, pretty much every of his guitars have no fretboard dot markers apart from that infinity symbol!
This one did have fretboard inlays - I just couldn't see them 🤓 The small black dots on dark roasted maple and my poor vision, made em hard to see
I did own a ML1 Pro Modern.
Really awful guitar.
My Bro Carnage is in the House! 👋😃
For me Steve, they don’t look good and they don’t sound good ,so Chapman guitars are not for me.
Can't argue with that mate 😂 Sounding good and looking good are 2 very important factors! Maybe even the most important! well... and weight too 😜
Chapman screwed himself over the years.. now I just mad when I see them.
Luckily for me, that's not effected my opinion on the guitars 😅
Chappers is an OG of the ole YT Guitar realm. From making Guitar vids in his bedroom to starting his own Guitar Company, he's probably been in thousands of vids between his channel and andertons. You're bound to f*c* up at some point 😂 (I know I would 😜)
It wouldn't be fun for me if a Guitar made me angry.
Soz - I'm not a massive Chappers fan boi or anything, and soz to be taking this out on you, (I'm not) but just had a load of comments in a row similar to yours, and I do totally get it, but I just can't allow myself to hate on anyone that hard. Life's too short n' all that jazz 🙏
Apologies again - Rant over pleasse don't take this as a direct response to you - I'm just venting here 🙏
You see the hate chapman brings? Best to stay away imho...
@@tadge74 Yup... I sat on that comment for a while debating wether to post 🙈 Probably shouldn't have, but ach well - I've said my bit on it, that'll do 🤷♂😬
Message recieved tho sir 🫡
The second I saw the stupid flat cap I turned off. Bye. 🖕🤣
C'mon now... either that's not true, or you didn't see the flatcap in the thumbnail 🤓👍
@@stevecassidyguitar aw you got me! 😉
@@APK-pn4qh 😘
Would NEVER buy anything from that total tool!
Not even a Herbalife subscription?
@@stevecassidyguitar LOL! Nice.
Sorey but please dont get sucked into the youtube chapman thing. good thing about your channel is no chapman shite.👎👎
Cheers for the heads up mate 👍
I have no intentions of getting into any drama. Just checked out a guitar 😜