Unix-guy: I was in the same boat as you years ago. I've always had descent guitars but I wanted a boutique instrument. I was looking for a floyd, strat style, HSS and a flat thin neck (is my age showing?). I had just sold a Fender Customer Shop set neck strat because I never bonded with it. I looked online at new and used Surh's as well as a few other builder/mfg. I even considered a Warmoth build with top shelf components, me building it but having it plek'd and professionally setup.
I found a place near me that usually stocked at least 1 suhr. It was usually some form of the 24 fret modern which I'm guessing is their best seller. In my opinion those are usually the ones that people say sound sterile. I'm not saying they all do, but in my experience, every one I have played had that sound (not for me). I took a leap of faith and ordered a Classic Custom strat from Suhr (Matt's Music as well).
The build quality and intonation blew me away when I first played it and I still have it today. For me here are a few things I'd keep and a few things I'd change if I could.
Likes:
Alder Body - This thing just sings acoustically or electrically.
Pickups: Michael Landau Single coils are the best single coils I've ever had. Tone/balance etc.
DSV humbucker in the bridge blows me away. I'm a PAF nut and this pickup has the PAF thing going on but with an uncanny clarity.
Frets: Stainless all the way! Love'm.
I'd change:
They didn't offer as many neck options then. I settled with a Slim C Even taper (Reb Beach neck) and quarter sewn maple. I've almost sent it back many times. The first five years it just seemed unstable even in stable climate conditions. I think it may have finally settled down 7 or more years later. I'd opt for the roasted necks and a flatter radius (preference).
Floyd: I grew up with Floyds (Thanks Ed) and have played them for decades. The Gotoh is the best I've ever played (including the original Floyds). Smooth, accurate and came with a brass block. Full sounding. But with the advancements in standard style trems I would probably opt for the one Pete Thorn uses on his guitar (I think it's a special order from suhr if I'm not mistaken).
Jumbo Frets: I'd opt for the medium SS frets. These jumbos just feel like your fingers are bumping over train tracks when you slide your fingers on the neck. Above the 14th fret they are just too bulky (wide).
Don't drive yourself too crazy!
