I bought the SC Custom II (Same finish) back in August 2020, and despite falling in love with the aesthetics of the guitar, the frets, neck, and electronics had so many issues, so I ended up selling it.
Here's a comparison between the SC Custom III and the SC Custom II, and my initial thoughts on this model (I received mine today)
- Custom II has HAF Roswells, while Custom III has Tesla VR-Nitro
The Tesla Nitros are lower output, but sound slightly better to my ears. The neck humbuckers sounds similar to a Seymour Duncan 59, while the bridge sounds slightly on the thinner side (nothing the bass knob on your amp cannot compensate for), with a noticeable mid bump.
- Custom II had a Graphtech nut back when I bought it (not anymore), while Custom III has a generic graphite nut. However, it looks well-cut. Only time will tell if it's good enough.
- Custom II was slightly lighter in colour, while the Custom III is darker with a distinct red hue.
- Custom III has a strap lock system - BIG PLUS!
- Custom III has stainless steel frets. The frets are mildly scratchy and the fret ends are okay - to be expected in this price range.
- Custom II and Custom III share the same neck profile in my opinion.
- Custom III has full-size korean pots with neat wiring, shielding paint in the back cavity, and aluminum foil on the back plate.
- I personally liked the top on my old Custom II more than the one on the Custom III example I've got - I wouldn't call this one "AAAA" but it's still beautiful.
- Both guitars are incredibly resonant, and Custom III is incredibly fun and easy to play.
Generally speaking, the Custom III example I currently have is higher quality and I do not see myself selling it unless I discover major flaws down the road.
That being said, keep in mind that you might find sloppy work here and there, e.g. rough binding, crocked side dots, bad setup, scratchy pots, misaligned pickups, etc.
In conclusion, fantastic guitar at a ridiculous price.
I would definitely recommend it, especially for someone who can address minor issues, like scratchy frets, dry fretboard, etc.
UPDATE:
I've had this guitar for a couple of weeks now and I have to knock down a star.
- The nut was set up way too high to the point where all barre chords are our of tune, so I had to remove it and shim it.
- A number of frets where coming out of place and had to be hammered down, which is something many players can't do.
