I recently went for a hit/miss try-out involving a Carvin Allan Holdsworth (not the one depicted here, though, it's just a reference) because it was on clearance. I thought if it's time to get a signature model (I don't own one to date. OK, the Les Paul might count...) maybe this is it.
The thing with signature models is that the instrument's specs were dictated by the endorser so what you get is actually what someone else wants in their instrument, not what you want. However, if these instruments fit your bill, the bottom line is, they work for you. So the HH2X I picked up had an incredible feel namely due to its weight- light! Many of us are skeptical when it comes to light guitars because they manifest those semi-hollow quirks quite removed from the solid body take. However, Mr. Holdsworth specified a chambered body to his preference because he is absolutely OK with that kind of tone, it's his forte for the music that he peddles. Every fixture of the HH2X was top notch, befitting of the instrument's stature (& price, mind you). The minimalist body & headless outline also meant that the guitar was literally a deserving extension of one's body. The thing that got to me was the neck; it's a finished version & that very rounded, thick C-profile was a put off for my needs, while everything else was ace. That included the very flat 20" radius which benefited upper fret shredding.
So by virtue of that major repulsion, I did not go home with a signature guitar & I must say it was that close because the HH2X was a very versatile beast; from warm cleans to absolute heavy metal, it adapted well. The instrument in whole was very comfortable but I guess this one's for those of us who don't mind that kind of neck profile. For the rest of us who grind bass notes for heavy music, a rounded neck profile wouldn't benefit us in terms of focus & lethargy endurance. Till next time.
