For starters, Thomann should update the photos for this model because mine came with a black nut and that small change makes a big difference esthetically. I purchased this guitar about 7 months ago now, and upon arrival I knew it was an instrument that was going to get a lot of use. The fit and finish are spot on, no blemishes, nothing under the finish (except for some notable flame figuring under the paint around the bridge area, what?) tuning machines weren't crooked or missing screws, awesome! So it looks good, that's great but how does it play and what does it sound like? Well, all I can say is I really, really like guitars coming out of Indonesia at the moment. The neck for the 550II feels closest to the PRS 'pattern thin' neck shape, it's fast and smooth and with the Blacksmith SS frets it is so effortless to play! The set up from the factory was fine, no adjustments required. The Tesla pickups also deserve some praise, they may not be the most articulate pickups I've owned but they don't sound 'cheap' in any way. Even running a dry, clean channel they have great depth and definition, needless to say I was pretty surprised because I thought pickups would be the first thing that I felt I needed to upgrade. Happily I can say it isn't necessary for my playing needs. All said and done, I couldn't be happier with this purchase. This guitar sits right next to my PRS and Gibson guitars proudly, and always surprises my friends when they pick it up and play it. You guys did a hell of a good job on this one!
