Schecter knows a thing or two about building guitars for players who like big riffs, comfortable necks and straightforward controls. The C-1 Standard and C-1 Standard Plus both follow that recipe—but what does the “Plus” actually bring to the party?
At Colemans Music, we think this is an interesting comparison because the Standard already offers plenty of the features modern players want. Moving up to the Plus gives you a different pickup set, a roasted maple fingerboard and Schecter’s Ultra Access neck joint.
Both also come in a range of colours, so there is more to this decision than comparing two guitars on the wall. Let’s look at what matters when choosing yours.
What Do They Have in Common?
These guitars share a familiar foundation: a mahogany body, 25.5-inch scale, Thin “C” neck profile, 14-inch fingerboard radius and 24 jumbo frets.
Both feature a Schecter Diamond Hardtail bridge, two humbuckers and simple volume, tone and three-way pickup controls. Their graphite nuts measure 42mm across.
For players, that means broadly similar playing dimensions. You can choose between them without having to move to a completely different scale length or neck shape.
The flatter fingerboard gives bends and lead playing room to breathe, while the hardtail keeps the setup straightforward. Whether you are learning your favourite riffs, recording at home or putting together a live rig, both offer a useful starting point.
The Main Differences at a Glance
| Feature | C-1 Standard | C-1 Standard Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Fingerboard | Rosewood | Roasted maple |
| Neck construction | Roasted maple-based; current Schecter specifications list maple/purpleheart multi-ply with carbon fibre reinforcement | 3-piece roasted maple |
| Neck joint | Bolt-on | Bolt-on with Ultra Access |
| Pickups | Schecter Diamond Standard humbuckers | Schecter Richter-6 humbuckers |
| Top | Varies with finish | Flamed maple |
| Hardware | Black | Satin chrome |
| Colours on the linked range pages | Black Fade Burst Burl, Blood Burst, Charcoal Satin | Blue Fade, Transparent Black Burst, Transparent Purple Burst |
Schecter’s linked pages specify these model differences and colour options. Exact construction details should be checked against the particular version you choose.
The Standard Has Plenty of Personality
The word “Standard” can make a guitar sound a little ordinary. Here, it deserves more credit.
The rosewood fingerboard gives the C-1 Standard a familiar look, while its roasted maple-based neck construction brings a modern element to the design. Schecter’s current specifications also list purpleheart laminations and carbon fibre reinforcement—a useful reminder that the Standard has its own construction strengths.
There is variety in its appearance, too. Charcoal Satin has a restrained, understated character, Blood Burst brings a stronger splash of colour, and Black Fade Burst Burl puts the figuring front and centre.
You do not have to choose the Plus simply because you want a guitar with an interesting top.
What Does the Plus Add?
The Standard Plus combines a three-piece roasted maple neck with a roasted maple fingerboard. That creates a distinctly different appearance from the Standard’s darker rosewood board.
Its Ultra Access neck joint is another feature worth paying attention to. The design aims to make the highest frets easier to reach, which may appeal to players who spend plenty of time soloing near the top of the neck.
Then there are the Richter-6 humbuckers, replacing the Standard’s Diamond Standard set.
These are the reasons to consider the Plus: its particular pickups, fingerboard and upper-fret access. The finish is part of its appeal, but there is more going on than a cosmetic change.
Pickups: Let Your Ears Make This Decision
The pickup sets give you something worth comparing through an amp.
We would start with the same amp settings and play the same parts on each guitar: a clean chord progression, a crunchy rhythm and a heavier riff. Then switch to the neck pickup and try a few lead lines.
Listen for how the notes separate, how the low strings respond and how the guitar reacts when you pick more softly.
A higher price does not automatically make a pickup better for your sound. Some players will prefer the Standard’s response; others will find the Richter-6 set gives them what they want. Your amp, effects and playing style all contribute to that decision.
More Colours, More Ways to Make It Yours
The Standard Plus range offers Blue Fade, Transparent Black Burst and Transparent Purple Burst, giving its flamed maple top three quite different personalities.
Blue Fade has a bright, contemporary look. Transparent Black Burst is more restrained, while Transparent Purple Burst gives players who enjoy colour something to get excited about.
The Standard range is equally worth exploring, particularly if you prefer a darker fingerboard or the character of a burl finish.
Choosing a finish is part of choosing a guitar you will enjoy owning. If one makes you want to pick it up every time you walk past, that counts for something.
Both Keep the Bridge Simple
Both models use the same Diamond Hardtail bridge, so this practical feature is available whichever way you go.
A fixed bridge makes string changes and tuning adjustments more straightforward than with a floating tremolo. For players focused on riffs, chords and bends, that simplicity can be a big part of the appeal.
If you plan to use substantially lower tunings, talk to us about string gauges and setup. Getting those right will help either guitar suit the job.
Which One Would We Recommend?
The C-1 Standard makes sense for players who want strong core features while keeping their budget under control. Its rosewood fingerboard, range of finishes and straightforward layout make it worth considering as a first serious electric, an everyday guitar or a backup.
The C-1 Standard Plus deserves a closer look if you prefer a roasted maple fingerboard, want the Richter-6 pickups or regularly play at the highest frets. Its Ultra Access joint gives you a practical reason to investigate the step up.
Neither choice needs to be dictated by your experience level. A beginner can enjoy the Plus, and an experienced player may find everything they need in the Standard.
Our Take at Colemans Music
The C-1 Standard offers a convincing mix of modern playing features and straightforward design. The Standard Plus gives you a different take on that formula, with changes that may suit your hands, ears and taste.
Our advice is to choose around the features you will use. Compare the fingerboards, try reaching the highest frets and hear the pickups through an amp sound you know.
Visit Colemans Music South Melbourne to explore Schecter guitars and talk through the available colours, or shop online with Fast Shipping Aus Wide.
