Mid/Late 80s Charvel-Jackson guitars?

[varador]

So I watched some old Jason Becker videos and noticed him shredding away on some Charvel guitars and I was wondering...

What can you tell me about Charvel-Jackson guitars built any time between 1985 to 1989? I'm referring to the Model series (i.e. Models 1 through 6) - specifically, I'd like to know about Models 3 and 4. I'm referring to Japan imports, not those super rare USA Made San Dimas.

So... concerning Charvel-Jackson Models 3 and 4:
Is there any significant difference between them? What are their necks like? How do they sound? Bright - dark - heavy? Heavy metal or hard rock? Anything special about their electronics or other hardware? Are they better with a Kahler or with Jackson's licensed Floyd Roses? Anything else I should know?

Finally, are they rare and should I bring out the big bucks if I come across one?

[shreddersymphony]

They're not rare. You can easily find em on the bay, usually theres at least 3-4 up at any given time. They seem to be, from my experience with em, pretty "80s metal guitars". I think the Model 3 and 4s have different pups, but I'm not exactly sure. Either way, seems like theyre pretty sweet guitars for the money.

[waylay00]

I know that the JT590 is the highest regarded Jackson trem as far as imports go.

I'm wanting a 750XL myself.

[Racerx2k]

Good timing. I had both an 86' Model 4 and Model 6, new, back in the day, and loved them, but like a fool, sold them off. Just redeemed myself by picking up another 86' Model 4, a clone of my old one, minus the factory pickups.
Terrific playing and sounding guitars. I forgot how stout they were built. Friggin' heavy tanks!
No experience with the Model 3s, but the Model 4 was 22-fret, bolt-on neck, whereas the Model 6 was 24-fret, and neck-thru. I prefer the Kahler over the Jackson JT-6 trem. Could never get those to stay in tune. Both the 4 and 6 came with either J80 or J80C humbuckers, and J200 stacked single coils, as well as a preamp with a mid-boost.
They may be imports, but well worth it.

[jim777]

They are outstanding guitars. The Japanese Charvels and the early 90's Jackson Professionals (90 to 93) are simply great guitars.

[Racerx2k]

Yup, although I had an early 90s professional, and had tuning troubles. Other than that, it was great.

[varador]

Good to hear, thanks for the input guys... I'm ready to shell out big bucks if I come across one.

[jim777]

You shouldn't need to shell out big bucks to get one. The Model 2 is fun as well, that's the one hum one vol bolt on. I have some pics of mine here if you're interested.

[HeavyMetal4Ever]

I've got a late 80's MIJ Charvel Fusion Custom and it's a great guitar. I've also played a few of the Model series, and never found a bad one.

As jim777 said, outstanding guitars.

If you are after more info, check out the Jackson/Charvel forum fansite. It's no Jemsite, but it's pretty cool.

Rock on!

[varador]

jim777: So how much should I offer for a Charvel Model series exactly? I'm eyeing a second hand Charvel Model at a local guitar shop that, through my research of pics of this guitar, I have discovered to be a Made in Japan Model 4 with dot inlays, 22 frets, probably basswood, bolt-on, 3 flip switches, 3 volume / tone knobs. and a Kahler trem, making it 1986 (post 1986 models had Jackson licensed trems and sharkfin inlays). The shop owner asked me to name a price and I don't want to upset him by offering a starting price that is too low, causing him to potentially heighten his asking price...

Either way, I'm glad to hear that their quality is consistent.

But please, tell me: how much should I offer? How much is too much? You guys say they're outstanding guitars - is it one to kill for (considering how old it is?)? Are older guitars better?

[HeavyMetal4Ever]

If you are after current market value, check out the Jackson/Charvel Forum Fansite. It's the best resource for info on these guitars.

These things change from country to country, but you should be able to get a rough idea.

Good luck with your bargaining.

Rock on!

[jim777]

I honestly don't know what they'd go for in Germany, but it would be less than $450 here, possibly less than $400. I got my 2 for $275. Check the sold guitars on the 'bay as well to see what the last few went for if you can.
Old guitars aren't necessarily better, but these are very well made guitars. At least as good as the comparable late '80's RGs.

[Gurj]

I'm sure I saw a model 6 go for around £300-£400 a little while ago.

And Jim's spot on, the early 90's Pro Jacksons are as good as any USA Jackson I've played

[AlkyHauler]

I have an 86 Model 4, loved it to death, trem knife edges are completely shot and I actually ended up bolting the neck to a strat I had laying around and now its one of my main players.

[Racerx2k]

I'd offer $300, and see if he bites. Flash the cash, makes them salivate. hehe.