TEST: Schecter KM-6 MKIII

 How times have changed when it comes to signature instruments. In the past, it was common for manufacturers to only deliver tailor-made instruments to selected big names in the scene or exceptionally talented craftsmen. Today, you are faced with a flood of signature models that are almost impossible to keep track of. While in the past, special models were deliberately priced high in order to promote the same model with reduced features and production in Asia as an affordable model, today's signature models are mostly in the moderate price range from the start, although current endorser names no longer necessarily have the same pull as in the past. Schecter is a very endorser-friendly manufacturer in the scene, which also has a YouTuber named Keith Merrow in its database of over 160 artists, whose current model, the Schecter Keith Merrow KM-6 Mk-III Hybrid, is available for testing here.

Who is Keith Merrow?

Please forgive me if my priorities in terms of artist perception still lie in the band / live area and I am well aware that one or two YouTubers are unknown to me, but that's what the internet is for. Unfortunately, Wikipedia didn't give much information, but according to Google, the American is a studio musician who can also be heard in various YouTube videos in some clinics playing his instrumental songs to corresponding backing tracks.

His focus is on the seven-string guitar, which is very often tuned down by 2 semitones either completely to A or to Drop A. Here is an example video:

https://youtu.be/l8yqKqNLuQg

The instrument seen in the video is now also available in a six-string variation, which only came onto the market this year in the "Snowblind" finish.

The construction of the Schecter Keith Merrow KM-6 Mk-III Hybrid

The Schecter people have obviously taken the old saying "If you wear black, you have to play white" to heart and given the instrument a finish that could hardly be more appealing to the colored spotlights on a stage. Although the white finish with black binding may not be "metal" enough for some, your lighting technician will love the color. Unfortunately, I was unable to find out exactly what is "hybrid" about the Schecter Keith Merrow KM-6 Mk-III Hybrid. There is no piezo pickup built into the bridge, nor does the guitar have any other features that put it in a different instrument group to a certain extent.

Overall, the Schecter Keith Merrow KM-6 MK-III would most likely be placed in the Powerstrat 2.0 category, 2.0 due to the lack of a vibrato system, which is usually found on a Powerstrat. Personally, I find the change to the vibrato-free version with maximum sustain very pleasant, as it is also much closer to my personal playing style than the Floyd Rose section.

In general, at first glance you have the feeling of holding an Ibanez guitar in your hands, with the two very pointed cutaways in particular being very reminiscent of the competitor. However, only until you look up to the headstock, where the typical 3/3 Schecter headstock clearly identifies the manufacturer. The hardware of the instrument is completely black and offers 6 locking mechanisms from our own production on the headstock, a Hipshot hardtail with a string thru body construction in the bridge area, which is also supposed to ensure maximum sustain.

In terms of wood construction, Schecter is once again relying on the currently very popular neck-thru variant, which is generally very beneficial for the vibration and sustain behavior. The through neck is made of maple, the attached body part is made of mahogany. An interesting detail can be found on the back of the neck between the saddle and the 19th fret. In contrast to the high-gloss finish, which was applied outside this area, this area has a matte, subtly roughened finish, which is intended to reduce the sometimes "sticky" feeling of a high-gloss finish. Time will tell to what extent this area gets dirty more quickly. The guitar is delivered without a case, just in simple cardboard packaging. It's a shame that an instrument costing around 1,700 euros doesn't even come with a gig bag, let alone a case.

The instrument, made in Korea, has 24 X-Jumbo frets, which are marked with dots arranged on the side. On the side, the instrument has slide dot markers, which fluoresce in a subtle green in the dark. Always a nice detail solution. The fingerboard uses a 12”-16” compound radius, also a very popular and useful practical solution.

The Fishman company has also generated a custom pickup for Keith Merrow, which is called the Fishman Fluence Keith Merrow Humbucker and is installed in both the bridge and neck areas. The pickup is active, the necessary battery is located behind a flap on the back of the body. Unlike many other Fishman pickups, the pickup does not offer the option of switching between two sound characters, but is fixed to one type. It is switched with a 3-way switch, there is no option for coil splitting etc.

The Schecter Keith Merrow KM-6 MK-III in practice

When you pick up the instrument for the first time, you'll be very impressed by the general feel. The guitar is very careful to make it as easy as possible for the user. The shaping is subtle but appropriate and the playability is also very good up to the 24th fret due to the very wide cutaway.

In general, the entire instrument is very ergonomic. Not a single corner, edge or curve that makes direct access to the instrument difficult or even impossible. Although the neck is "ultra thin" according to the manufacturer, the "C" shaping still leaves enough mass to avoid drifting into the regions of extremely thin necks from other manufacturers.

Now let's get to the sound of the instrument. Interestingly, the hybrid version I have does not have the voicing switch for the pickups that is built into other models of this instrument, which means that there are only the 3 different sounds offered via the three-way switch in the typical Les Paul style. It is noticeable that the neck pickup is not switched to single coil, but due to its positioning, particularly with clean sounds, due to the 24 frets and its construction, it emits significantly less bass or less "mud" than is known from many other neck pickups. Due to its positioning, it does lose a touch of character that it would experience below the 24th fret, but as we know, this is all a matter of taste.

If you switch to the crunch range, you will notice that the pickups retain a fairly high dynamic component despite their active orientation. The bridge pickup in particular has a strong treble component and "bites" quite well when it comes to corresponding rhythm passages. It seems that Fishman has primarily used the "vintage" circuit of its pickups as a basis here and has not looked so strongly towards "modern".

This sound character is also retained as soon as you switch to the lead range. Here, too, the "passive" sound impression is maintained for a long time and does not go into compression as much as you would with a 24-fret pickup. B. from the classic EMGs. This alignment promises better assertiveness, but also a little less pressure in the midrange.

In the high gain range, the pickups can now fully exploit their actual strengths. Although highly compressed, the sound still remains transparent and manages to find a good sweet spot between maximum pressure and sufficient string separation. You can immediately see that the instrument was designed specifically for this area of ​​music. To what extent the "dance musician finish" contradicts this intention is something everyone has to decide for themselves.

The sound files were created with an Engl Savage II, a Marshall 412 cabinet with Celestion G12 75T and 2 Shure SM 57s.

Conclusion

With the Schecter Keith Merrow KM-6 MK-III, the Korean manufacturer has a very practical and high-quality instrument in its range. The guitar has many detailed solutions that come from intensive engagement with different playing situations.

Anyone who has enough “cojones” to play an almost completely white instrument on stage and whose focus is on heavy rock or metal should definitely give the guitar a try.

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Additional Informations:

In the sprawling and diverse landscape of YouTube content, few figures stand out as distinctly as Keith Merrow. Known for his technical prowess, innovative approach to metal music, and a profound connection with his audience, Merrow has carved out a unique niche in the digital world. This article delves into the journey of Keith Merrow, exploring his rise to prominence, his contributions to the metal community, and the impact he has made through his online presence.

**The Genesis of a Metal Maestro**

Keith Merrow’s journey into the world of metal began like many musicians, rooted in a deep passion for music and a relentless desire to push his creative boundaries. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Merrow was drawn to the guitar at an early age. Influenced by the heavy sounds of bands like Metallica, Pantera, and Slayer, he quickly developed a taste for the aggressive and intricate styles that define metal music.

Unlike many musicians who embark on the traditional route of forming bands and playing live shows, Merrow chose a path that was less conventional but ultimately more aligned with the digital age. Recognizing the potential of the internet as a platform for sharing music, he began producing and releasing his work online. This decision would prove to be pivotal in his career, allowing him to reach a global audience without the constraints of a traditional music industry framework.

**Crafting a Unique Sound**

One of the hallmarks of Keith Merrow’s music is his distinctive sound, which blends technical proficiency with atmospheric depth. His compositions are characterized by complex rhythms, intricate lead work, and a meticulous attention to tone. Merrow’s ability to seamlessly blend these elements has earned him a reputation as a modern metal innovator.

Merrow’s discography showcases his evolution as a musician. Early releases such as "The Arrival" and "Lonestar Transcend" demonstrate his ability to craft compelling instrumental tracks that engage the listener without the need for vocals. These works highlight Merrow’s skill in creating dynamic compositions that are both technically challenging and emotionally resonant.

As his career progressed, Merrow continued to refine his sound, incorporating new influences and techniques. Albums like "Awaken the Stone King" and "Retrospecial" illustrate his growth as a guitarist and composer, featuring more sophisticated arrangements and a broader sonic palette. These releases solidified Merrow’s position as a leading figure in the instrumental metal genre.

**Embracing the Digital Frontier**

Keith Merrow’s decision to utilize YouTube as his primary platform was a game-changer. In an era where traditional music distribution channels were becoming increasingly obsolete, Merrow leveraged the power of social media and video content to build a dedicated following. His YouTube channel, launched in 2008, became a hub for metal enthusiasts seeking high-quality content and insight into the creative process of a modern metal musician.

Merrow’s videos offer a mix of original music, gear reviews, and instructional content. His approach is characterized by a candid and down-to-earth style, which resonates with viewers and fosters a sense of community. By sharing his experiences and knowledge, Merrow has not only built a loyal fanbase but also contributed to the education and inspiration of aspiring musicians.

One of the key factors in Merrow’s success on YouTube is his focus on authenticity. Unlike some content creators who prioritize sensationalism or clickbait, Merrow’s videos are rooted in genuine passion and expertise. This authenticity has endeared him to his audience, who appreciate his dedication to the craft and his willingness to share his journey.

**Collaborations and Side Projects**

In addition to his solo work, Keith Merrow is known for his collaborations and side projects, which have further expanded his influence in the metal community. One of the most notable of these collaborations is Conquering Dystopia, a project formed with fellow guitarist Jeff Loomis, bassist Alex Webster, and drummer Alex Rüdinger. This supergroup released a self-titled album in 2014, which was met with critical acclaim for its technical mastery and innovative compositions.

Conquering Dystopia allowed Merrow to explore new musical territories and push his boundaries as a guitarist. The project’s success highlighted his ability to work collaboratively with other top-tier musicians, resulting in a product that was greater than the sum of its parts. Tracks like "Ashes of Lesser Men" and "Tethys" showcase the synergy between the band members, combining their individual strengths into a cohesive and powerful sound.

Merrow’s collaborative spirit extends beyond Conquering Dystopia. He has also worked with a range of other artists and brands, contributing to various projects and products. His involvement with Schecter Guitars, for instance, has led to the creation of signature guitar models that reflect his preferences and playing style. These instruments are designed to meet the demands of modern metal musicians, incorporating features that enhance playability and tone.

**The Impact of Gear Reviews**

One of the standout aspects of Keith Merrow’s YouTube channel is his extensive gear reviews. As a guitarist with a keen ear for tone and a deep understanding of equipment, Merrow’s reviews are highly respected within the community. His insights into guitars, amplifiers, pedals, and recording equipment provide valuable information for musicians seeking to make informed purchasing decisions.

Merrow’s gear reviews are characterized by their thoroughness and honesty. He takes the time to explore each piece of equipment in detail, demonstrating its capabilities and providing objective assessments of its strengths and weaknesses. This approach has earned him credibility and trust among his viewers, who rely on his expertise when considering new gear.

Beyond the technical aspects, Merrow’s gear reviews often include practical advice on how to achieve specific tones or sounds. He shares his own experiences and techniques, offering tips that can help musicians get the most out of their equipment. This practical knowledge is invaluable for players looking to refine their sound and improve their overall musicianship.

**Educational Contributions**

In addition to his music and gear reviews, Keith Merrow has made significant contributions to music education. His instructional videos cover a wide range of topics, from basic guitar techniques to advanced concepts in composition and production. These videos are designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels, providing clear and concise explanations that demystify complex ideas.

Merrow’s educational content is rooted in his own experiences as a self-taught musician. He understands the challenges and frustrations that aspiring guitarists face, and he approaches his instruction with patience and empathy. By breaking down difficult concepts into manageable steps, he helps his viewers build confidence and develop their skills at their own pace.

One of the recurring themes in Merrow’s instructional videos is the importance of creativity and individuality. He encourages his students to experiment with their playing and to find their own unique voice on the instrument. This emphasis on personal expression is a key aspect of Merrow’s teaching philosophy, inspiring musicians to push their boundaries and explore new musical horizons.

**A Legacy of Innovation and Influence**

Keith Merrow’s influence extends far beyond his YouTube channel and discography. He has become a respected figure in the metal community, known for his contributions to the genre and his commitment to fostering a sense of community among musicians. His work has inspired countless guitarists to pursue their passion and to explore the possibilities of modern metal music.

Merrow’s legacy is one of innovation and authenticity. He has demonstrated that it is possible to build a successful career in music through dedication, creativity, and a willingness to embrace new technologies. By sharing his journey and his knowledge, he has created a lasting impact on the world of metal and beyond.

In a music industry that is constantly evolving, Keith Merrow stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision. His story is a source of inspiration for musicians everywhere, reminding us that with passion and hard work, we can achieve our dreams and make a lasting mark on the world.