Framus Diablo Custom

Made in Germany;
Ash body of swamps, ovankgol handle, ebony tabby, AAA flamed maple top assembly as "bookmatch" pearl inlays;
Framus Wilkinson signed easel;
Mechanical blocking;
22 frets;
Diapason 25.5 inches (648 mm)
Seymour Duncan SCR-1N Cool Rail (neck), SSL-1 single-coil (middle), STB-4 JB (bridge);
1 volume knob (to the splitter humbuckers when pulled), 1 tone knob, 1 5-way switch.

These impressive features for a ridiculous price of € 1.5k justify the maximum score.

UTILIZATION

The handle has a hybrid form that seems somewhat strange at first, but once tamed, it is extremely comfortable: the fingers find the notes come naturally, hands comfortably seated and relaxed. Changing the shape of the handle of serious acute to offer the same comfort in all positions (very near the round head, he gradually flattened towards the body).
Slight downside regarding access to acute, correct without being oriented pure shred.

The instrument has good ergonomics. Its weight of 3.5 pounds is mainly distributed in the body, Diablo is also comfortable to play sitting or standing.

The complexity of combinations of microphones, however, makes it difficult to change configuration cache full play plastic selector also has a tendency to jump to dissuade you, point very disappointing for an instrument of this quality.

SOUNDS

As seen above, the possible combinations at many electronics are (8 according to the manual) with the ability to split the humbucker.
This offers a huge range of sounds that stimulates creativity and gives the instrument exceptional versatility. The last active position such as STB-4 JB bridge, micro benchmark for rock / metal while the first position tone down fully simulates the sound of jazz guitar.

OVERALL OPINION

My instrument of 2008. The brand now offers a model equivalent to two and a half times the price they were selling the Diablo Custom. Suffice to say that if you find an opportunity (I doubt, even in times of crisis), it will be very responsive.
This is by far the best tool that I've had the chance to lay hands (I have unfortunately never yet tested instrument worth more than 1,500 euros). But an instrument, this is a real gem by the scarcity of wood which compose and aesthetics.