Schecter Synyster Std Plus FR GN
A specialized, high-performance instrument tailored for fans of Synyster Gates and aggressive music.
★★★★★ 4.5/5 · 2 buyer reviews · 5 min read · updated 2026-10-07 · Tested by Cal Whitaker
Schecter Synyster Std Plus FR GN: Technical Features of the Signature Avenger
The Schecter Synyster Std Plus FR GN is a high-gloss, natural-finish electric guitar named after Synyster Gates, the lead guitarist of Avenged Sevenfold. Priced at $1333 and available as of May 2026, this model is molded for modern, technical playing, drawing from both the artist's visual identity and practical needs as a touring metal guitarist. This review investigates the technical details, highlighting how the specifications align with high-gain rock and metal performance.
Construction and Woods
The guitar uses mahogany for both the body and bolt-on neck. This choice emphasizes richness and warmth in tone, complementing the need for sustain in both rhythm and lead applications. The absence of a figured or laminated top focuses the instrument on functional qualities rather than flashy woodwork. The fretboard is ebony, a dense, smooth fingerboard material favored for low friction, clarity, and fast attack, an asset for articulate, high-speed soloing.
Shape, Finish, and Playability
The distinct Avenger shape delivers a visually assertive presence and improved high-fret access. The natural color is protected by a high-gloss finish, allowing the grain and aesthetic of the mahogany to remain visible while resisting moisture and minor wear. The neck profile is specified as an Ultra Thin "C", providing playability that caters to rapid, technical fretwork and encouraging fluid hand motion for complex passages. With a nut width of 41.3 mm (1.63 inches) and 24 jumbo frets, the fretboard is moderately narrow and extended, prioritizing fast runs and bends.
Scale and Hardware
- Scale length: 648 mm (25.51 inches), corresponding to the traditional full scale preferred in hard rock and metal, offering balanced tension for both standard and lowered tunings.
- Floyd Rose Special "Hot Rod" locking tremolo: This double-locking vibrato system ensures tuning stability even with aggressive pitch changes. The "Hot Rod" distinction adds improved components over entry-level Floyd Rose designs.
- Grover machine heads: These sealed tuners complement the tremolo's demands for precision and reliability.
- Black hardware: Contributes to both longevity and a cohesive visual appeal, consistent with the guitar's bold, signature style.
Electronics and Controls
- Pickups: Two Schecter Synyster Gates Signature humbuckers in neck and bridge positions, configured for full, high-output response while minimizing noise, crucial for heavy, effects-laden playing.
- Passive electronics: No active circuitry, giving the guitar a traditional wiring path that highlights the natural tone of the woods and pickups.
- 5-way switching: This extended switching option offers several pickup combinations for a wide tonal palette, moving beyond standard dual-humbucker wiring to provide more versatility in clean and distorted tones.
- Volume and tone controls: Straightforward, stage-friendly layout for fast on-the-fly adjustments.
Practical Considerations
This model ships without a case or gig bag, requiring separate purchase of protective accessories. With a single sales unit and clear reference to Synyster Gates' preferences, this guitar speaks to players looking for a production-ready, artist-inspired instrument rather than a fully customized or boutique build.
Final Thoughts: Intended Use and Value
At $1333, the Schecter Synyster Std Plus FR GN occupies the mid-to-upper price tier for signature electric guitars. Its construction, hardware, and electronics package focus on modern metal and high-gain rock, but the passive wiring, versatile switching, and choice of woods keep it viable for clean and overdriven sounds outside the heaviest genres. The signature humbuckers and locking tremolo target performers needing both reliability and flexibility. The omission of a top carve or decorative top layer reinforces a practical approach centered on the essentials of playability and tonal stability.
Ultimately, for guitarists seeking a purpose-built instrument modeled after a recognized artist in heavy music, with emphasis on speed, sustain, and visual presence, the Synyster Std Plus FR GN provides a detailed and technically robust option anchored in Schecter's established build standards.
Shipping and duties
The retailer ships from its warehouse in Germany. Prices are shown in US dollars and do not include import duties. Orders under roughly $800 usually clear US customs without duty; above that, a duty of a few percent may be collected on delivery. 30-day money-back and a 3-year warranty apply.
Scores by area
Where it shines, where it stumbles
What convinced me
- Distinctive Avenger body shape with eye-catching natural high gloss finish
- Two powerful Schecter Synyster Gates Signature humbuckers provide aggressive, high-output sound
- Ultra Thin C-shaped bolt-on mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard ensure fast, smooth playability
- Floyd Rose Special 'Hot Rod' locking tremolo allows expressive pitch effects and tuning stability
- Grover machine heads and 24 jumbo frets for reliable performance and extended range
What bugged me
- No case or gig bag included at this price point
- Signature design may not appeal to all players
- Premium price compared to standard models
- Limited versatility for genres outside heavy music
Is it the right one for you?
Good pick if
Ideal for Avenged Sevenfold fans, metal and hard rock guitarists, and players seeking fast-action necks and expressive tremolo performance. Great for those wanting a stage-ready instrument with a bold look and signature tone.Look elsewhere if
Not for beginners, traditionalists, or players seeking a subtle or vintage look. Those on a budget or needing broad stylistic versatility may want to look elsewhere.Suggested level: Intermediate
Specifications
- Shape
- Avenger
- Color
- Natural
- Body
- Mahogany
- Top
- None
- Neck
- Mahogany
- Fretboard
- Ebony
- Frets
- 24
- Scale
- 648 mm
- Pickups
- HH
- Active pickups
- No
- Tremolo
- FR-Style
- Including case
- No
- Incl. bag
- No
- Artist
- Synyster
Up close
Watch and listen
Before you decide
Questions players ask
Is the Floyd Rose Special tremolo system stable for aggressive use?
The Floyd Rose Special 'Hot Rod' locking tremolo offers reliable tuning stability under heavy use, ideal for dive bombs and expressive pitch effects.
Are the pickups suitable for clean tones or just high-gain sounds?
The Schecter Synyster Gates Signature humbuckers are voiced for modern, high-output tones but can handle cleans with the 5-way switching, though they shine in heavy styles.
What is the neck profile like?
The neck features an Ultra Thin C profile in mahogany with an ebony fingerboard, making it fast, flat, and comfortable for technical playing.
Is a case or gig bag included with the guitar?
Neither a case nor a gig bag is included, so buyers should consider this additional purchase to protect the instrument.
Can the guitar handle styles outside of rock and metal?
While versatile enough for some crossover, its pickup configuration and design are tailored for heavier genres and may feel less at home in jazz or country contexts.
The last word from the bench
With its striking design, robust build, and high-output signature humbuckers, the Schecter Synyster Std Plus FR GN delivers exactly what its target audience expects. The ultra-thin neck and Floyd Rose tremolo suit fast, expressive playing. However, its price, lack of case, and genre focus limit broader appeal. An excellent fit for dedicated players seeking Synyster Gates' signature sound.
Hanging next to it
Schecter Synyster Std Plus FR GN
Today's price and delivery time are shown at the retailer.
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