Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 SWB Electric Guitar - Balanced Tone

In this review of the Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 SWB, the bottom line is simple: this guitar suits players who want a distinctive, well-balanced instrument that blends vintage inspiration with modern versatility. The reviewer found the chambered maple and mahogany body plus the carbon-reinforced 3-piece mahogany neck deliver a resonant, comfortable playing experience that still feels substantial. A pair of Alnico V humbuckers and a 5-position pickup selector with a passive push/pull Focus Switch give this two-pickup design an unusually broad palette of tones, making the RSS20 a standout for gigging musicians and home players alike.

Key Features

• Chambered body: The combined maple and mahogany chambered body reduces weight while preserving resonance for a lively, well-balanced tone.
• Carbon-reinforced 3-piece neck: The mahogany neck with carbon reinforcement improves stability and sustain while keeping a smooth satin feel under the hand.
• Alnico V humbuckers: Two Alnico V humbuckers produce a rich, warm core tone that responds well to both clean and overdriven amp settings.
• 5-position selector and Focus Switch: The 5-position pickup selector and passive push/pull Focus Switch unlock a range of tonal options rarely found on a two-pickup instrument.
• Deluxe gig bag included: The included gig bag makes this model stage-ready and adds practical value for transport and storage.

Who It's For

The RSS20 is aimed at players who want a solid, versatile electric with character - gigging guitarists who need reliable build quality and a wide tonal range will appreciate the combination of chambered tone and the flexible pickup layout. Players who value a comfortable, slightly lighter instrument that still sustains and projects will find the neck and body design attractive.

Players seeking a pure thin-bodied instrument, an active electronic setup, or a very boutique, hand-wired circuit might look elsewhere; the RSS20 favors a balanced, passive approach rather than extreme tonal specialization. Left-handed players should note there is an RSS20L model available if required.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent build quality and fit, with attention to fretwork and a smooth neck finish that improves playability.
• Rich, versatile tones from the Alnico V humbuckers and the 5-position selector plus Focus Switch.
• Chambered construction gives good resonance and reduced weight without sacrificing sustain.
• Deluxe gig bag included adds immediate value for gigging or travel.

Cons

• The guitar uses passive electronics only, so players seeking active preamps or very modern active tones may prefer a different platform.
• Players wanting a fully solid block-body may prefer a different feel, as the chambered body slightly alters the acoustic response.

Specifications

Model	Revstar Standard RSS20 SWB
Body	Chambered maple and mahogany
Neck	Carbon-reinforced 3-piece mahogany
Pickups	2 Alnico V humbuckers
Controls	5-position pickup selector, passive push/pull Focus Switch
Included	Deluxe gig bag
Finish	Swift Blue (cafe racer-inspired)

Our Verdict

The Yamaha Revstar RSS20 SWB is a thoughtfully engineered instrument that delivers strong value for players who want classic humbucker tone with modern flexibility. Its chambered body and carbon-reinforced neck make it comfortable and well balanced, while the pickup configuration and Focus Switch offer a surprising range of sounds. For players who need a reliable stage-ready guitar without exotic electronics, this is a smart buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it come with a case?
Yes, the RSS20 includes a deluxe gig bag suitable for transport and basic protection.

Is there a left-handed version?
Yes, Yamaha offers the RSS20L model for left-handed players.

What tonal range can I expect?
With two Alnico V humbuckers, a 5-position selector and the Focus Switch, expect warm humbucker fundamentals with varied clarity and single-coil-like options when switching positions.