G'day! It was a long story... But I finally picked up 'Angel' (i.e. my new 7VWH) yesterday.
I never really expected it to play, feel, and sound *SO* different to my other JEM, the FP. I wouldn't say the 7V is superior, but it plays better no doubt! The sustain is also greater. However, I have yet to come up with a tone that I like with those Evo pups. They're just too hot for my taste. But it's OK. I think I'm just not used to them yet. I'd probably need to lower the input volume on my preamp.
What's the story with acrylic-coated necks on current Jems? As far as I can tell, the finish on mine (model year '01) is satin. I have absolutely no problems with mine whatsoever.
Excuse me... Gotta fly. I suddenly feel an urge to play right now!
-Bill