There are some really shreddable V necks though, particularly the Jackson RRs.
Yes, but Jackson is a modern style guitar (like Ibanez, ESP, etc), but my point is, even the traditional Gibson Flying V is good for shredding, well, some models of the flying V.
My Government flying V is excellent for shredding. Almost as fast as the fastest Ibanezes. Huge frets, low action, medium thin neck, easy access, etc...
And because of their offset V body, they are a lot easier to sit with than a Gibson V or any symmetrical V shape but I still much more prefer strat, tele, SG, or LP body styles.
If you get used to it, the V shape is also great to sit down with, but it takes some time to get comfortable with.
If you can get used to sitting classical style with guitar between legs than any body style can be accommodated sitting down.
I am usually not too worried about the way things "look", but sitting down with your guitar between the legs, if it is not a classical guitar, or a V, is just not an option. It just looks retarded. =)
As for your Premium RG, I would love to have one of those. It looks like under $1,200 with case out the door for most Premium RGs! I can't afford J Customs or Prestiges
I have tried a few premiums, and mine plays like a dream, and some others, were ok, but I think overall, most of them are really great.
but the Premiums in all body shapes of Ibanez seems to offer totally top of the line quality for the dollar. The Ibanez Premium Jem or Satch guitars look like they can take the head off of any Fender or Gibson I have owned and all Premiums list for under two grand, right?
I would not say that, some of the higher end Fenders, are great as well. But it is kind of difficult to compare, they are totally different kinds of guitars.
Even though I love my Fender Violin burst Tele with gold hardware and modern C shape neck, it is not even 60% as fast as the Premium Wizard 3 neck.
And just to point out, I do not consider myself a typical shredder. I do like to play fast sometimes, if it fits the context.
Have no experience with the Artcore series, even though I also play lots of jazz (or used to play).