Schecter Guitar Research has solidified its elite status as one of the world’s premier guitar companies, offering electric guitars and basses, acoustic guitars, and USA Custom Shop instruments to musicians around the world in more than 150 countries. Its continually evolving and expanding line of guitars and basses appeals to a broad spectrum of players and diverse musical styles. Its core business practice offers high-quality instruments with professional components at an affordable price. One of the company's strongest assets is its growing roster of high-profile artists, including Disturbed, Avenged Sevenfold, The Cure, Papa Roach, Seether, Prince, Keith Merrow, Nick Johnston, and Zakk Wylde.
About
History
Custom shop days, 1976–1983
In 1976, David Schecter opened Schecter Guitar Research, a repair shop in Van Nuys, California. The shop manufactured replacement guitar necks and bodies, complete pickup assemblies, bridges, pickguards, tuners, knobs, potentiometers, and miscellaneous other guitar parts. Eventually, Schecter began supplying parts to notable guitar manufacturers and to Robert Talbot repair shops. By the late 1970s Schecter offered more than 400 guitar parts, but did not offer any finished instruments. In 1979, Schecter offered, for the first time, its own fully assembled electric guitars. They were considered very high quality and very expensive, and were sold only by twenty retailers across the United States.Schecter guitars and parts have been used by, among others, Pete Townshend, Mark Knopfler, Ritchie Blackmore, Chris Poland, Synyster Gates, Richard Patrick, Jinxx, Jake Pitts Tommy Victor, Dan Donegan, Robin Zander, and Shaun Morgan.
Texan ownership and mass production, 1983–1987
By 1983, Schecter had reached its custom shop production limit and could no longer meet demand. That year, the company was purchased by a group of Texas investors who wanted to build upon Schecter's reputation for quality. The investors moved the company to Dallas, Texas, where they produced above-par quality guitars using both imported parts and Schecter parts under the Schecter name for less than five years. At the 1984 winter NAMM show, Schecter introduced twelve new guitars and basses. The most popular of these guitars was a T-style guitar similar to those that Pete Townshend played. Although Townshend never endorsed this model, it was known unofficially as the "Pete Townshend model". Eventually, the T-style guitar became known as the "Saturn", and the company's S-style guitar became known as the "Mercury". All guitars have the "Lawsuit" peg heads (two small marks on back of headstocks). Schecter was still using S and T headstocks, which Fender had allowed when they were a parts company. It appears this lawsuit may have essentially led to their closing in late 1986 to early 1987. The name was purchased by the current owners in late 1987. During this period, Schecter managed to sign one notable endorsee, Swedish guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen. Schecter built several custom guitars for Yngwie Malmsteen that featured scalloped necks and reverse headstocks.
Hisatake Shibuya and reform, 1987 – present
In 1987, the Texas investors sold the company to Hisatake Shibuya, a Japanese entrepreneur who also owns the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. Shibuya moved the company back to California and returned Schecter to its custom shop roots, devoting all its efforts to manufacturing high-end, expensive custom instruments. Schecter guitars were once again only available from a few retailers, one of them being Sunset Custom Guitars located in Hollywood, which Hisatake Shibuya also owned. Sunset Custom Guitars happened to be the place where Michael Ciravolo, the future president of Schecter Guitar Research, worked. In 1995, Schecter introduced the highly sought-after 'S Series' guitars and basses. In 1996, Hisatake Shibuya asked Michael Ciravolo to become Schecter's president and run the company. Michael Ciravolo, an experienced musician, brought to the company many well-known musicians as endorsees. These included Robert DeLeo of Stone Temple Pilots, and Jay Noel Yuenger and Sean Yseult of White Zombie, as well as Xavier Rhone of Carbon Nation. Michael Ciravolo never really liked competitor designs, so he sought to distance the company from its past Fender-style models. Toward that end, he added the "Avenger", "Hellcat", and "Tempest" models to the Schecter catalog. He also wanted to reach out to a new generation of musicians who were ignored by most major guitar manufacturers. Yet, at this point, the company was only producing expensive, custom shop models. (Schecter's maximum output was forty guitars a month.) So, to realize his vision, Ciravolo began searching for a factory that could mass-produce Schecter guitars while maintaining high quality standards. In 1997, Michael Ciravolo met with several Asian guitar manufacturers at the Tokyo Music Festival and subsequently decided on a factory located in Incheon, South Korea. (Though not known for sure, this location could be the electric guitar factory of World Musical Instrument co. Ltd.) Schecter's guitars would be built in the South Korea factory, after which they would be shipped to the U.S. to be set up in a Schecter shop. At the 1998 summer NAMM show, Schecter introduced the Diamond Series, which included six affordably priced non-custom guitars. In 1999, Schecter added the seven string "A-7 Avenger" guitar to the 'Diamond Series'. It also introduced the "C-1", which was debuted by Jerry Horton in Papa Roach's "Last Resort" music video. The Diamond Series is still in production to this day.
Expanded custom shop, return of USA production, and Schecter Amplification, 2013 - present
In 2012, it was announced that Schecter expanded their custom shop, adding 14,000 square feet to the facility. Later the same year, Schecter announced a new line of USA-built guitars that would bring the company back to its "roots". This included the acquisition of several CNC machines from Haas Automation and a new 1,500 square feet spray booth. The new line would be called the "USA Production Series." These guitars were officially debuted at the 2013 Winter NAMM show. Schecter also announced a new line of hand-wound electric guitar and bass pickups, that would be available on USA Production and custom shop models, and possibly will be available for purchase in 2013. Along with the announcement of the USA Production Series, Schecter announced their introduction into the amplification market. These new amps would be designed in part with well-known amplifier designer James Brown, who is most famous for designing the Peavey 5150 amplifier in part with Eddie Van Halen and his line of effect pedals under the Amptweaker name. The amps first announced were the "Hellraiser USA 100", "Hellraiser Stage 100", "Hellwin USA 100", and the "Hellwin Stage 100". The USA versions are built in Schecter's USA custom shop, while the Stage series is built overseas. The Hellwin is the signature amp for Avenged Sevenfold guitarist Synyster Gates, who helped design the head with James Brown. Both amps make use of EL34 power tubes, an on-board noise gate, a passive and active input that compensate for the output difference by changing the circuit instead of reducing output, and a "Focus" control that adjusts the low end response. The differences between the Hellwin and the Hellraiser is the Hellwin's use of MIDI to control the amp. The Hellwin is also a 3-channel amp, as opposed to the Hellraiser's 2-channel design. Along with these amps, Schecter introduced a line of speaker cabinets, one featuring a 200W sub-woofer. called the "Depth Charge", that would increase the cabinet's bass response. These amps were debuted, along with the USA Production Line, at Winter NAMM 2013.
Contact
Warranty
Diamond Series
All Schecter Guitar Research Diamond Series instruments are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. This warranty applies to the original owner only, and is not transferable under any circumstances. Please note that our Limited Lifetime Warranty is only valid in the country/territory/duchy from which your NEW guitar/bass/product/instrument was purchased.
Your new Schecter instrument is warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the original owner, if used under normal operating conditions, subject to the limitations described below. This warranty is not transferable under any circumstances, and applies to the original owner only, provided the product is purchased as NEW from an authorized Schecter dealer. Please retain your original sales receipt as proof of purchase.
This warranty does NOT cover the following:
- Any instrument that was not purchased from an authorized Schecter dealer.
- Any instrument that has been modified or customized after shipment from Schecter Guitar Research.
- Any instrument that has been serviced by unauthorized persons.
- Any instrument whose serial number is missing, or has been altered in any way.
- Any instrument that has been damaged due to misuse, neglect or accident.
- Any instrument that has been subjected to extreme humidity or temperature conditions.
- Normal wear and tear on any serviceable part of the instrument, including electronic controls and switches, jacks, worn frets, plated surfaces, tuning machines, scratches in pick guards or plastic parts, saddles and nuts; normal paint wear and tear including damages, discoloration, and paint shrinkage of the instrument finish for any reason.
- Defects in finishes such as cracks, splitting, or warping of wood due to changes in temperature or humidity, exposure to sun, fire, moisture, body salts and acids, other chemicals or non-industry approved polishes.
- Regular maintenance of the instrument, including string changes, truss rod adjustments, set-up, intonation and action adjustment.
- Subjective issues such as tonal characteristics, grade, grain or color of wood or finish, or relative weight.
- Freight charges to Schecter Guitar Research for warranty repairs.
- Shipping damages of any kind.
No instrument may be returned to Schecter Guitar Research without prior authorization. If a return is to be made to Schecter Guitar Research, the customer must first obtain a Return Authorization number (RA#) by phone or email. If the RA# is not clearly marked on the package being returned, it will be refused. Schecter Guitar Research will inspect any returned instrument, and upon approval, and at the sole discretion of Schecter Guitar Research, will replace any part or parts deemed defective. Schecter
Guitar Research reserves the right to use materials regularly utilized or available at the time of repair in the event that the original materials are no longer available. The customer is responsible for the cost of shipping the instrument to Schecter Guitar Research; please provide insurance and pack the instrument properly! Schecter Guitar Research will pay the insurance and shipping costs to send the instrument back. Schecter Guitar Research does not offer repair service of any kind other than warranty repair service. If an instrument needs service or maintenance that is not covered under warranty, it should be taken to a qualified guitar repair professional.
SGR Warranty Information
SGR by Schecter Guitar Research and SGR Guitar Pack - 2 Year Limited Warranty
Schecter Guitar Research warrants the SGR GUITAR and SGR GUITAR PACK to be free from defects in material and workmanship if used under normal operating conditions for a period of 2 years from the date of original purchase except electronics and hardware which are covered for 1 year from original date of purchase. The GUITAR PACK AMPLIFIER is protected under a one-year warranty from the original purchase date. Cables and other accessories are warranted for a period of 120 days from the original date of purchase. Guitar strings are not covered under warranty. This warranty applies to the original owner only, and is not transferable under any circumstances. Please note that our 2 year Limited Warranty is only valid in the country/territory/duchy from which your NEW guitar/bass/product/instrument was purchased.
Please retain your original sales receipt as proof of purchase. If you need to file a warranty claim in the future, you can send in a photocopy of your receipt at that time.
The SGR GUITAR is designed for use with .009 to .042 gauged strings only and heavier gauged strings may cause damage to the instrument. This warranty is void if strings of a heavier gauge other than .009 to .042 are installed on the guitar.
The SGR 4 string bass is designed for use with .045 to .105 gauged strings only and the SGR 5 string bass is designed for use with .045 to .130 gauged strings only. This warranty is void if strings of a heavier gauge than those listed are installed on the guitar.
This warranty does NOT cover the following:
- Any instrument that was not purchased from an authorized Schecter dealer.
- Any instrument that has been modified or customized after shipment from Schecter Guitar Research.
- Any instrument that has been serviced by unauthorized persons.
- Any instrument whose serial number is missing, or has been altered in any way.
- Any instrument that has been damaged due to misuse, neglect or accident.
- Any instrument that has been subjected to extreme humidity or temperature conditions.
- Normal wear and tear on any serviceable part of the instrument, including electronic controls and switches, jacks, worn frets, plated surfaces, tuning machines, scratches in pick guards or plastic parts, saddles and nuts; normal paint wear and tear including damages, discoloration, and paint shrinkage of the instrument finish for any reason.
- Defects in finishes such as cracks, splitting, or warping of wood due to changes in temperature or humidity, exposure to sun, fire, moisture, body salts and acids, other chemicals or non-industry approved polishes.
- Regular maintenance of the instrument, including string changes, truss rod adjustments, set-up, intonation and action adjustment.
- Subjective issues such as tonal characteristics, grade, grain or color of wood or finish, or relative weight.
- Freight charges to Schecter Guitar Research for warranty repairs. Shipping damages of any kind.
U S Customers:
No instrument may be returned to Schecter Guitar Research without prior authorization. If a return is to be made to Schecter Guitar Research, the customer must first obtain a Return Authorization number (RA#) by phone or email. If the RA# is not clearly marked on the package being returned, it will be refused. Schecter Guitar Research will inspect any returned instrument, and upon approval, and at the sole discretion of Schecter Guitar Research, will replace any part or parts deemed defective. Schecter Guitar Research reserves the right to use materials regularly utilized or available at the time of repair in the event that the original materials are no longer available. The customer is responsible for the cost of shipping the instrument to Schecter Guitar Research; please provide insurance and pack the instrument properly! Schecter Guitar Research will pay the insurance and shipping costs to send the instrument back. Schecter Guitar Research does not offer repair service of any kind other than warranty repair service. If an instrument needs service or maintenance that is not covered under warranty, it should be taken to a qualified guitar repair professional.
International Customers:
Please contact the store where you purchased the instrument for return authorization information.
FAQ
General Questions
Are Schecter Diamond Series models available with custom options?
We do not customize or modify our Diamond Series guitars or basses in any way. Our Diamond Series guitars and basses are only available with the existing and current specifications. Diamond Series instruments are not available in customized versions, however, Schecter USA Custom Shop guitars may be ordered with custom options.
What year was my Schecter Diamond Series instrument made?
The first two numerical digits of the serial number (found on the back of the headstock) will tell you what year the instrument was made. For example, for serial number 0236758, the "02" indicates that the guitar was made in 2002; for serial number W10052743, the "10" indicates that the guitar was made in 2010.
How do I contact Artist Relations or submit my band to Schecter?
For Schecter to remain close with our artists, endorsements are limited, and we cannot guarantee a response for all submissions.Please send your Electronic Press Kit to artistrelations@schecterguitars.com
I have a Diamond Series instrument that I cannot find on your website. Why is this?
It may be a Limited Edition or Special Edition model, or possibly a discontinued model. You can try searching the Vault section on our website for discontinued models.
How do I determine which model I have?
In most cases, the model name is stamped on the truss rod cover (just above the nut). Make sure to check the Vault for discontinued models. Sending us some digital pictures would be the best way to help identify your guitar. If you are unable to send any, please email us, and be prepared with as much information as possible about the instrument. This includes serial number, body shape, color, pickup configuration, number of frets, type of bridge, etc. We will do our best to identify your guitar.
Why did you discontinue the ______________?
We change our lineup every year, and some of the changes we make depend on the demand generated by our customers. Models or colors that create a steady demand may stay in our product line for a longer period of time. We always strive to keep our product line exciting, for our customers and us!
I have a guitar that I can’t find on your website?
Throughout the years Schecter Guitars have manufactured many proprietary guitars. These were mostly made in limited quantities and sold exclusively to select dealers. If you cannot find it on our web site, please contact us with the model name and we can assist.
Schecter is a manufacturer of new instruments only, and has no direct involvement in used, collector or vintage instrument markets, or in determining the value of a particular instrument.
Does Schecter offer factory tours?
We do not offer any factory tours; we're not open to the public.
Electronics
Where can I find a wiring diagram for my instrument?
You can find the wiring diagram on our website, in the "Download Technical Specification" PDF located at the top right corner of each specific model's page. If you do not see the "Download Technical Specification" option, there may be no wiring diagram currently available for that model. We update these regularly.
The Neck and Bridge pickup volume controls on my guitar seem backwards. Why is this?
Production models starting from 2010 have a new control layout. The Bridge volume is located closest to the pickups. The Neck volume is located in the middle. (If you own a model from 2009 or older, the volume controls may be wired opposite this!) The majority of guitar players use their Bridge pickup for both Rhythm and Lead, so we switched to this layout so that players have easier access to the Bridge volume control. You can find a control layout in the "Download Technical Specification" PDF located at the top right corner of the specific instrument's page. If you do not see the "Download Technical Specification" option, there may be no control layout currently available for that model. We update these regularly.
How does the Push-Pull coil-tap work?
When the push-pull knob is pulled up, one of the two coils of a humbucking pickup is grounded out, producing a single-coil sound (so, down=humbucker, up=single-coil).
How does the Push-Pull work with the Duncan Designed P90-1 pickup?
This pickup is wired in Series/Parallel on a push-pull tone pot. With the knob in the 'down' position, it is wired in Series. Series will give you more of a Humbucker-like tone that will have more mid-range and hotter output. With the knob in the 'up' position, it is wired in Parallel. Parallel will give you the most P90-like tone with less bass and brighter highs. Both are hum-cancelling.
What do the frequency dip switches do on my EMG BTS 2-band bass EQ?
The dip switches are located on the BTS EQ circuit board inside the control cavity. The BTS has the added feature of allowing you to choose from 4 different high-frequency response curves. This is a nice feature, especially if you are using the BTS with passive pickups. The following diagrams show the dip-switch positions and the graphs show the resultant frequency responses. Click here for diagrams.
How do my bass controls work?
Most four knob Schecter basses have a Master Volume knob, Blend knob, Bass knob, and Tone knob. The Blend knob is located on top. The Master Volume knob is located in the front, towards the pickups. The Bass knob is located in the back, towards the bridge. The Tone knob is located on the bottom. Click here for a diagram of the four knob and five knob bass controls.
How does the Bass Blend knob work?
Rolling the Blend knob toward the Neck pickup will select the Neck pickup. Rolling the Blend knob toward the Bridge pickup will select the Bridge pickup. The middle notch will select both pickups. You can dial in the amount of volume for each pickup with a simple turn of one knob, rather than having separate volume knobs.
I have no output or my output is cutting in and out. What do I do?
First, try a new guitar cable; unplug all effects and plug directly into your amp. You can also try another amp if it is available. The next likely issue could be the output jack connection. Remove the output jack plate, or pickguard, and check for broken connections. If your guitar or bass uses active pickups or an EQ, try replacing the battery/batteries. If none of these resolve your problem, please contact us for technical assistance.
I have no output or my sound is distorting on my Diamond Series instrument with active EQ or active pickups. What should I do?
Most of the time replacing the battery will fix this. (Be sure to unplug your instrument cable from the output jack when not in use. This will turn the batteries off and add many more hours of playability.) If this does not work, see the question listed above this one.
My battery keeps going dead on my Stiletto Studio or Hellraiser bass. Why is this?
Our Studio and Hellraiser basses have two 9-volt batteries in the battery cavity. Make sure both batteries are replaced. It can be a little deceiving, but the second battery is underneath the first battery. (Be sure to unplug your instrument cable from the output jack when not in use- this will turn the batteries off and add many more hours of playability.)
How does the controls work on my Sustainiac® model?
There is a Master Volume and Tone, some 3 knob model will have a Master Volume, Tone and Sustainiac Intensity knob that controls the amount of sustain you would like. There is a 3-way Switch that selects between the Bridge pickup and the Neck pickup/driver. There is a 2-way On/Off DPDT mini toggle switch that activates or deactivates the Sustainiac Driver. There is a 3-way DPDT mini toggle ‘Mode’ switch that controls the Sustainiac feedback function. All the way up is the ‘Fundamental’ mode that sustains the same note that is played. The middle position is the ‘Mix’ mode that Sustains between the Fundamental notes and up to the 4th Harmonic notes. The down position is the ‘Harmonic’ mode that sustains up to the 7th harmonic note.
I am having issues with my Sustainiac® model. How do I troubleshoot the issue?
You can find Sustainiac Troubleshooting info in the Support section or be clicking the following link _____.
How do I adjust my Sustainiac® circuit board?
You can find an Owner’s Manual of your Sustainiac model in the Support section.
Tech & Maintenance
What are the neck dimensions and nut width of my Diamond series instrument?
Neck dimensions and nut width can be located in the Specs tab at the bottom section of the individual model page.
How do I adjust the bridge?
You must first determine what type of bridge is on your guitar. If you have a Floyd Rose system, there are 2 studs which hold the bridge system in place. You may adjust either the high or low side up or down with a 3mm wrench to achieve the desired action height. If you have a Tune-O-Matic style bridge, then you may adjust your action with a flat-head screwdriver on either the treble or bass side. Please note: If you have a TonePros Locking TOM system on your guitar, you must first loosen the 2 lock-down screws with a 1.5mm Allen wrench before attempting to adjust action height. For more details, check out www.tonepros.com and see owner's manual.
How do I know if my neck needs adjustment?
Generally, if a neck is out of adjustment, string buzz will be more noticeable in either the center of the neck or near the first few frets & open chording area. There are many factors that can cause string buzz; your neck does not always need to be adjusted! Please consult any qualified repair technician if you are not sure or you do not know how to properly adjust a truss rod. You should not attempt to adjust the truss rod unless you are qualified to do so. Extreme adjustments can cause permanent neck damage.
What size truss rod Allen wrench do I need to adjust my neck?
A 5/32" or 4mm Allen wrench will fit the Schecter two-way adjustable truss rod.
What is a two-way adjustable (i.e., dual action/double expanding) truss rod? How does it work?
Every Diamond Series instrument has a two-way adjustable truss rod. Unlike most truss rods which allow only convex neck adjustments (back bow), the two-way adjustable truss rod allows you to adjust for either a concave or convex bow. If you tighten the truss rod nut Clockwise it bows the neck backwards, straightening the neck. As you loosen the nut you will find the neck's neutral position (the truss rod is not in use). If you continue to loosen the nut Counter Clockwise you will feel a renewed tightening as the rod causes the neck to bow forward giving the neck more relief. Click here for a diagram. Please consult any qualified repair technician if you are not sure or you do not know how to properly adjust a truss rod. You should not attempt to adjust the truss rod unless you are qualified to do so. Extreme adjustments can cause permanent neck damage.
I broke my neck. Can you fix it or sell me a new neck? Where do I get it fixed?
Schecter does not sell replacement necks. Replacements are only available under a warranty basis. If your neck broke due to neglect such as being dropped, you should try to find a professional repairperson to see if the neck can be repaired. See our Warranty for more details.
Can Schecter refinish my instrument?
We do not offer any factory refinishing or restoration services in any capacity. If you search the web, you'll find there are many independent companies that offer this type of service.
What kind of finish does my Diamond Series instrument have? What should I use to maintain the finish?
We use a polyester finish. This finish is safe for rubber stands and hangers. Any standard guitar cleaner will work. We use Meguiar's Mirror Glaze Professional Final Inspection 34 cleaner to clean the finish. This works great for cleaning the hardware as well.
I have a satin finish on my instrument. What should I use to clean it?
Any standard guitar cleaner will work. Meguiar's Mirror Glaze Professional Final Inspection 34 cleaner works great to clean the satin finish. It cleans off sweat and dirt without harming the finish. Make sure to clean the satin finish softly, or you might hand rub the satin finish to a gloss (shiny) finish.
How often should I change strings?
Although changing strings varies with each user, Schecter recommends that you change your strings at least every 20 hours of playing time. Keep in mind that if you wipe your strings clean after each use, it will help prolong the life of the strings.
*Note: Properly stretching new strings will minimize the "buzz" of a fresh set, and enhance tuning stability.
If I change string gauges or tuning will it damage my neck?
A slight truss rod adjustment or bridge height adjustment may be needed, but it will not damage your neck.
Parts, Strings, & Merch
Can I buy replacement parts from Schecter?
Schecter does not sell any replacement parts, just complete guitars and basses. Many of the quality parts found on Schecter guitars and basses can be found at your local retailer. They may also be available through online parts dealers. Here are a few suggestions:
AllParts
Stewart-MacDonald
WD Music
Guitar Parts Resource
Do you sell replacement pickguards, backplates, truss rod covers or tremolo covers?
Schecter does not sell any replacement parts, just complete guitars and basses. Please contact a local repair shop to have these replacements made. You might also check with the parts suppliers listed above.
What brand string/gauge is on my guitar/bass?
Schecter Diamond Series instruments are factory-equipped with Ernie Ball strings. The exact string information is located in the Specs Tab at the bottom section of the individual models page.
Factory String Gauges & Tunings
Instrument String Gauge (Low to High) Tuning (Low to High)
6-String Guitar 46/36/26/17/13/10 E/A/D/G/B/E
7-String Guitar 56/46/36/26W/17/13/10 B/E/A/D/G/B/E
8-String Guitar 74/64/52/42/30/17/13/10 F#/B/E/A/D/G/B/E
6-String Baritone 56/44/34/24W/16/12 B/E/A/D/F#/B
6-String Acoustic 54/44/32/24W/16/12 E/A/D/G/B/E
12-String Guitar 46/26, 36/18w, 26/12,
17/08, 13/13, 10/10 E/A/D/G/B/E
6-String Baritone VI 90/75/56/44/34/24 E/A/D/G/B/E (one octave lower)
4-String Bass 105/85/65/45 E/A/D/G
4-String Bass Baritone 128/105/85/65 B/E/A/D
5-String Bass 130/100/85/65/45 B/E/A/D/G
6-String Bass 130/100/80/65/45/32 B/E/A/D/G/C
8-String Bass 100/50, 80/40, 65/28, 45/18 E/A/D/G (w/doubled octave strings)
My hardware is tarnishing or rusting. Is this covered under warranty?
Damage, corrosion or rusting of any hardware component caused by temperature or humidity, exposure to sun, fire, moisture, body salts and acids, other chemicals or non-industry approved polishes is not covered under the Schecter warranty. You can minimize these effects by wiping the hardware down with a soft cotton cloth after playing.
What shipping method does Schecter use to ship warranty replacement parts?
Schecter ships replacement parts via USPS Standard.
Where can I get Schecter Merch and accessories?
Schecter shirts, hats, jackets, and other accessories are available on our website. For the latest in Schecter Gear, go to the Apparel section.
Cases
What Schecter case should I buy to fit my guitar?
Case recommendations are listed on our website in the Accessories section, or at the bottom of each specific instrument's page. Just find your model at www.schecterguitars.com and scroll to the bottom of the "Specs" column. For previous or discontinued models no longer listed on our website, please contact your local dealer for purchasing information.
Where can I order a hardshell case or gig bag for my Schecter instrument?
Schecter hardshell cases and gig bags can be ordered through any authorized Schecter dealer. For a complete list of authorized Schecter dealers, see our Dealer Locator.
Warranty
What is the warranty coverage on parts and electronics?
All Schecter Guitar Research Diamond Series instruments are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Our Limited Lifetime Warranty is only valid in the country/territory/duchy from which your NEW guitar/bass/product/instrument was purchased. Your new Schecter instrument is warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the original owner, if used under normal operating conditions, subject to the limitations described below. This warranty is not transferable under any circumstances, and applies to the original owner only, provided the product is purchased as NEW from an authorized Schecter dealer.Please retain your original sales receipt as proof of purchase. If you need to file a warranty claim in the future, you can send in a photocopy of your receipt at that time. For a full listing of the Warranty Terms, click here.
Online Warranty Registration
Schecter has no authorized repair centers, All warranty repairs are done at Schecter.
I bought my instrument used. Is it still under warranty?
No. Our Limited Lifetime Warranty is not transferable under any circumstances, and applies to the original owner only, provided the product is purchased NEW from an authorized Schecter dealer.
Who do I contact for customer service?
Please call 800-660-6621, ext. 313 to reach Schecter Diamond Series Technical Support.
Emails can be sent to the Diamond Series Technical Support at tech@schecterguitars.com
Hours of operation: 9am-5pm Monday-Friday (Pacific Standard Time).
*Note: Emails will only be read and replied to during business hours.
I live outside the USA and I have a warranty repair issue; who do I contact?
If you live outside the USA, please contact the Authorized Distributor in the country where the instrument was purchased for any warranty issues/repairs. Please note that Distributors will only warranty instruments that were purchased from the country they represent. If you purchased an instrument from a different country, it will not be covered under warranty. Please see our website for a complete list of Authorized Schecter Distributors.
Will Schecter refund the purchase price of my instrument?
Schecter will not refund the purchase price of any instrument. If you are pursuing a refund, it should be obtained through the store from which your purchase was made.
SGR by Schecter Guitar Research and SGR Guitar Pack - 2 Year Limited Warranty
Schecter Guitar Research warrants the SGR GUITAR and SGR GUITAR PACK to be free from defects in material and workmanship if used under normal operating conditions for a period of 2 years from the date of original purchase except electronics and hardware which are covered for 1 year from original date of purchase. The GUITAR PACK AMPLIFIER is protected under a one-year warranty from the original purchase date. Cables and other accessories are warranted for a period of 120 days from the original date of purchase. Guitar strings are not covered under warranty. This warranty applies to the original owner only, and is not transferable under any circumstances. Please note that our 2 year Limited Warranty is only valid in the country/territory/duchy from which your NEW guitar/bass/product/instrument was purchased.
Please retain your original sales receipt as proof of purchase.
The SGR GUITAR is designed for use with .009 to .042 gauged strings only and heavier gauged strings may cause damage to the instrument. This warranty is void if strings of a heavier gauge other than .009 to .042 are installed on the guitar.
The SGR 4 string bass is designed for use with .045 to .105 gauged strings only and the SGR 5 string bass is designed for use with .045 to .130 gauged strings only. This warranty is void if strings of a heavier gauge than those listed are installed on the guitar.
This warranty does NOT cover the following:
1) Any instrument that was not purchased from an authorized Schecter dealer.
2) Any instrument that has been modified or customized after shipment from Schecter Guitar Research.
3) Any instrument that has been serviced by unauthorized persons.
4) Any instrument whose serial number is missing, or has been altered in any way.
5) Any instrument that has been damaged due to misuse, neglect or accident.
6) Any instrument that has been subjected to extreme humidity or temperature conditions.
7) Normal wear and tear on any serviceable part of the instrument, including electronic controls and switches, jacks, worn frets, plated surfaces, tuning machines, scratches in pick guards or plastic parts, saddles and nuts; normal paint wear and tear including damages, discoloration, and paint shrinkage of the instrument finish for any reason.
8) Defects in finishes such as cracks, splitting, or warping of wood due to changes in temperature or humidity, exposure to sun, fire, moisture, body salts and acids, other chemicals or non-industry approved polishes.
9) Regular maintenance of the instrument, including string changes, truss rod adjustments, set-up, intonation and action adjustment.
10) Subjective issues such as tonal characteristics, grade, grain or color of wood or finish, or relative weight.
11) Freight charges to Schecter Guitar Research for warranty repairs.
12) Shipping damages of any kind.
U.S. Customers
No instrument may be returned to Schecter Guitar Research without prior authorization. If a return is to be made to Schecter Guitar Research, the customer must first obtain a Return Authorization number (RA#) by phone or email. If the RA# is not clearly marked on the package being returned, it will be refused. Schecter Guitar Research will inspect any returned instrument, and upon approval, and at the sole discretion of Schecter Guitar Research, will replace any part or parts deemed defective. Schecter Guitar Research reserves the right to use materials regularly utilized or available at the time of repair in the event that the original materials are no longer available. The customer is responsible for the cost of shipping the instrument to Schecter Guitar Research; please provide insurance and pack the instrument properly! Schecter Guitar Research will pay the insurance and shipping costs to send the instrument back. Schecter Guitar Research does not offer repair service of any kind other than warranty repair service. If an instrument needs service or maintenance that is not covered under warranty, it should be taken to a qualified guitar repair professional.
International Customers
Please contact the store where you purchased the instrument for return authorization information.
Is my guitar covered under the limited lifetime warranty if I purchase it from a country other than the one in which I reside?
No, you must purchase your guitar from an authorized dealer in your country to get the warranty coverage (for example; you live in India but you purchased the guitar from an online store in the USA, this will not be covered). If you have a warranty issue you must contact the store/distributor in the country from which it was purchased.
Please note that we do not authorize any USA online dealer or store to sell Schecter products outside of the USA. If you live outside the USA and purchase a guitar from the USA, it will not be covered under our warranty.
I see a model on the "All Other Countries" portion of the site that doesn't appear on the "USA" portion. Can I purchase this model in the USA?
Not at this time. Currently, these models are only sold to countries outside the USA.
Retailers
How can I become an authorized Schecter retailer?
For information regarding possible dealerships, please send your inquiries to brad@schecterguitars.com. Please note that you must have an existing "brick-and-mortar" retail location; Schecter does not authorize "online only" dealerships.
Is Schecter USA the same company as Schecter Japan?
While both companies share the same owner, they are operated independently of one another. Schecter Japan offers instruments only for Japan and certain Asian markets.
For international sales and warranty repair click here to find a distributor in your country/area.
For questions regarding current or past models, please contact the distributor in your country. Click here for international distributor listing.