Comprehensive review of BexGears DIY ST Electric Guitar Kit with Mahogany Body

Description

Easy-to-Build DIY Electric Guitar Kit Experience

The BexGears DIY ST Style Electric Guitar Kit, Mahogany Body maple neck & composite ebony fingerboard Black pickguard is something I couldn’t wait to get my hands on. As someone who enjoys tinkering with instruments and loves the idea of customizing my own guitar, this kit promised to be both a challenge and a treat. After spending time assembling and testing the guitar, I can confidently say it has its share of impressive features but also a few quirks worth mentioning.

The Design and Materials

One of the first things that stood out to me was the mahogany body. It’s not only durable but also gives the guitar a rich, warm tone that I genuinely appreciate. The maple neck feels smooth and sturdy, a combination that’s ideal for both beginners and experienced players. I found the composite ebony fingerboard to be a nice touch, offering a sleek, easy-to-play surface without being overly slick. The black pickguard, although basic in appearance, complements the natural wood finish well, especially if you’re a fan of minimalist aesthetics.

What caught my attention during assembly was the inclusion of stainless steel strings, which are known for their longevity and brightness. Paired with the S-S-S pickup configuration, the sound output is clean and versatile, making it suitable for various genres. The fixed guitar bridge system further ensures tuning stability, which is a huge plus for someone like me who loves experimenting with different tunings.

Highlights

The kit is marketed as easy to build, and for the most part, that claim holds true. I appreciated that the kit came with clear instructions (though I did have to reach out for a PDF version, as mine was missing). This little hiccup aside, the assembly process was straightforward, even for someone without a ton of woodworking experience.

• The mahogany body significantly enhances the guitar’s tonal depth.
• Pre-included components like the pickups and bridge are of decent quality for the price.
• The ability to customize the finish adds a personal touch to the instrument.
• Instructions—while not perfect—help make the kit approachable for beginners.

Critiques

While the guitar kit shines in many areas, it isn’t without its flaws. One issue I encountered was the unpolished okoume body, which required additional sanding to get a smooth finish. While this might be expected in a DIY kit, it’s something worth noting if you’re not prepared to put in the extra work.

Another limitation is the overall quality of the electronics. The pickups, while functional, lack the punch and clarity you’d get from higher-end components. If you’re a seasoned player, you might feel the need to upgrade these down the line.

• The woodwork requires extra prep before painting or finishing.
• Pickups are basic and may not satisfy advanced players.
• Missing or incomplete instructions can hinder the assembly process.

How It Compares to Other Options

When stacked against other electric guitar kits, this one holds its ground quite well. For instance, kits like the Fender Stratocaster-style DIY kits often come with similar components but at a slightly higher price point. While the Fender kits might feature more refined electronics, they don’t necessarily offer a better customization experience.

Compared to budget kits, this guitar stands out due to its mahogany body and stainless steel strings, both of which are rare at this price level. However, for those willing to spend a bit more, brands like StewMac offer kits with premium electronics and pre-polished parts, making them more suitable for advanced users. That said, if you’re looking for a balance of affordability and quality, this kit fits the bill quite nicely.

Worth Every Penny

One thing that I kept coming back to was the value proposition. For a kit that includes a sturdy body, decent electronics, and all the components needed to assemble a functional guitar, it’s hard to argue against the price tag. Sure, there are areas where corners were cut, like the need for additional sanding or the basic pickups, but considering the customization potential, it’s a great deal for beginners and hobbyists alike.

If you’re someone who enjoys the process as much as the final product, the satisfaction of crafting your own electric guitar outweighs any minor inconveniences. I also found the option to upgrade components later on to be a huge plus, as it allows the guitar to grow with your skills and preferences.

Final Thoughts on Building and Playing

After putting it all together and strumming those first few chords, I couldn’t help but smile. There’s something incredibly rewarding about playing an instrument you’ve built yourself, even if it’s not perfect. While the BexGears DIY ST Style Electric Guitar Kit isn’t without its challenges, it’s a fantastic starting point for anyone interested in learning the ins and outs of guitar construction.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you’re a beginner or a DIY enthusiast looking for an affordable yet satisfying project. Just be prepared to put in a bit of extra effort and, potentially, some upgrades down the line.

Additional information