Schecter PT Fastback II B Review: A Mid-Range Double Cut

Who Should Buy It

Key Specifications

Overview

The Schecter PT Fastback II B is a solidbody electric guitar finished in dark emerald green. The product listing identifies it as part of Schecter's PT series, a line known for offset double cutaway shapes. The listing features an alder body, a maple neck, a rosewood fingerboard, two humbucking pickups, and a tremolo system. This combination points toward a guitar aimed at rock and pop players who want a classic look with modern appointments.

At a mid-range price tier, the PT Fastback II B sits above budget starter instruments but below premium USA made guitars. Schecter has a reputation for producing well built guitars in this range, often with high output pickups and fast necks. However, the listing does not publish every specification, so buyers have to make some assumptions about the exact hardware and electronics. The core feature set is strong enough to generate interest, but the missing details prevent a complete assessment from the listing alone.

Body, Neck and Playability

The body is made of alder, a tonewood known for its balanced response with slightly pronounced upper mids and a clear low end. Alder is a common choice for solidbody electric guitars because it is relatively lightweight and pairs well with humbucking pickups. The double cutaway shape should provide easy access to the upper frets, though the exact number of frets is not published in the listing. The overall silhouette appears to be comfortable for seated and standing playing.

The neck is listed as maple with a rosewood fingerboard. Maple necks are stiff and bright, while rosewood fingerboards add warmth and a smooth playing surface. The combination is traditional and should feel familiar to most players. The listing does not state the neck profile, scale length, or fret size, so the exact playability cannot be confirmed. On paper, the materials suggest a guitar that should be stable and responsive, but the missing measurements are a notable gap.

For players who prioritize a fast playing feel, the PT Fastback II B may appeal, but without a published scale length or neck shape, it is hard to say whether it leans toward Fender style or Gibson style proportions. The double cutaway design and tremolo suggest a rock oriented instrument with good upper fret access. Buyers who have played other Schecter models may recognize a familiar neck feel, but newcomers should try before buying if possible.

Pickups and Tone

The listing states that the guitar comes with two humbucking pickups. Humbuckers are known for their thicker, quieter output compared to single coils, making them well suited to overdriven tones and high gain settings. The exact brand and model of the pickups are not specified, so the output level and voicing remain unknown. Schecter often equips its mid-range guitars with in house pickups or popular aftermarket designs, but that cannot be confirmed here.

On paper, the dual humbucker configuration should provide a versatile rock tone with a strong bridge position for rhythm work and a warmer neck position for leads. The alder body will add some brightness and articulation, preventing the sound from becoming muddy. Without hearing the pickups or seeing their output rating, it is impossible to say how they compare to well known models like Seymour Duncan or DiMarzio. The tremolo bridge may also affect sustain and resonance slightly, but that is typical for a guitar in this class.

The dark emerald green finish has no direct impact on tone, but the overall construction suggests a balanced instrument. Players who like to modify their guitars can easily swap pickups later, but the stock set may be perfectly adequate for many styles. The listing does not mention coil splitting or other wiring options, so the tonal palette is likely straightforward dual humbucker sounds.

Hardware and Electronics

The hardware information in the listing is limited to the presence of a tremolo bridge. The type of tremolo is not specified, so it could be a vintage style six screw, a two point, or a more modern design. The quality of the tremolo unit and its stability are unknown. Schecter typically uses functional hardware at this price point, but without details, buyers cannot be sure about tuning stability or durability.

The control layout is not published in the listing. Most dual humbucker guitars have a three way toggle or a five way blade switch, along with volume and tone controls, but that is an assumption. The tuners are also not described, which is another unknown. For a mid-range guitar, these omissions are somewhat frustrating but not uncommon in minimal product listings.

The following hardware and electronics details are worth noting:

Bullets can be included here if desired.

• Tremolo bridge type is not specified
• Pickup brand and output are not published
• Control layout is not described
• Tuner brand and ratio are unknown
• No mention of coil tap or phase switching
• Electronics cavity and wiring are unspecified

Build Quality and Finish

The build materials listed are solid and time tested. Alder bodies and maple necks are staples of the electric guitar industry, and rosewood fingerboards are a common premium touch. The dark emerald green finish is described in the listing title and feature bullets, giving the guitar a distinctive appearance. Schecter is generally known for good build quality in the mid-range tier, with consistent fretwork and clean finishes.

However, the listing does not mention the thickness of the finish, the quality of the fret dressing, or the overall weight of the guitar. The absence of a published scale length and fret count also means the guitar's build geometry cannot be fully evaluated. Buyers should expect a solidly built instrument based on the brand's reputation, but there is no way to verify specific construction details from the listing alone.

The double cutaway shape and tremolo route are standard features that should not present any unusual challenges. The dark emerald green color is less common than black or sunburst, which may appeal to players looking for something unique. Overall, the build quality is likely to be competent for the price, but the unknown hardware details keep it from earning a higher confidence score.

Setup Out of the Box

The listing does not state whether the guitar receives a factory setup before shipping. Many guitars in this price range benefit from a professional setup after purchase to adjust string height, intonation, and tremolo tension. The included accessories are not published, so it is unclear if the guitar comes with a case, gig bag, or any tools. Buyers should plan to have the instrument set up to their preferences.

A tremolo equipped guitar often needs the bridge balanced properly for stable tuning, and this is something that may require adjustment out of the box. The alder body and maple neck should be stable, but changes in temperature and humidity during shipping can affect the setup. Without knowing the factory specifications, it is safe to assume that a quick setup will improve playability. The listing does not mention any included warranty or setup guide.

Daily Use and Practice

For daily practice and regular use, the Schecter PT Fastback II B should be a comfortable guitar if the neck profile suits the player. The double cutaway design allows easy access to the upper frets, which is useful for lead playing and practice routines. The guitar's weight is not published, but alder bodies are typically medium weight, so long practice sessions should be manageable. The tremolo bridge offers a fun way to add vibrato to chords and notes.

The dual humbuckers will perform well with practice amps and modelers, providing a full sound that works for many genres. Without knowing the pickup output, it is hard to say how the guitar will react to high gain settings, but humbuckers are generally forgiving. The dark emerald green finish may show fingerprints less than black but more than lighter colors. Overall, this guitar is likely to be a reliable practice companion as long as the setup is good.

The lack of published specifications means players who are very particular about neck dimensions or fret size may be taking a risk. However, Schecter's typical neck shapes are comfortable for many players, and the rosewood fingerboard will feel smooth under the fingers. The tremolo can be a source of tuning instability if not maintained, but that is true of any tremolo equipped guitar.

Versatility and Styles

The dual humbucker configuration and tremolo bridge make the PT Fastback II B versatile for rock, hard rock, pop, and blues. The alder body adds enough brightness to keep the tone articulate, while the humbuckers provide thickness for overdriven sounds. Clean tones should be full and warm, though the exact character depends on the pickup voicing. The guitar should handle moderate gain well for rhythm and lead work.

For players who need a wide range of tones, the lack of coil splitting or other switching options may limit the guitar's versatility. The listing does not mention any special wiring, so the guitar likely offers traditional humbucker sounds only. That is fine for many genres but may not satisfy those who need single coil spank or more nuanced clean sounds. The tremolo adds another dimension for surf, indie, and classic rock.

The dark emerald green finish and offset double cutaway shape give the guitar a modern look that suits contemporary styles. It would not be out of place in a rock band, a worship setting, or a home studio. Without more information on the pickups, the guitar is best considered a rock oriented instrument first and a versatile all rounder second.

Who Should Buy It

The Schecter PT Fastback II B is a good fit for guitarists who want a mid-range solidbody with a classic component set and a distinctive finish. Players who already own or have played Schecter guitars and appreciate the brand's neck feel and build quality will likely feel at home. The dual humbuckers and tremolo are well suited to players who use moderate to high gain and enjoy using the bar for expression.

This guitar is also a solid option for someone looking for an upgrade from a starter instrument without spending a premium price. The alder body and maple neck with rosewood fingerboard are proven materials that should serve a player for years. However, buyers who demand detailed specs before purchasing should look elsewhere or seek out additional information from a local dealer. The listing's omissions are the main drawback here.

In short, the PT Fastback II B is aimed at the player who sees the feature list and thinks it matches their needs, and who trusts Schecter's reputation to fill in the blanks. If you are that player, the guitar is likely to be a satisfying purchase.

Verdict

The Schecter PT Fastback II B presents a compelling mid-range option for guitarists who want a classic solidbody platform with dual humbuckers and a tremolo. The alder body and maple neck with rosewood fingerboard are time tested materials that should deliver a balanced and responsive feel. The dark emerald green finish is distinctive and gives the guitar a modern look. However, the listing leaves out several important specifications, including scale length, fret count, pickup brand, control layout, and tuner type.

This lack of detail means buyers cannot fully assess playability or tone before purchase. On paper, the guitar appears to be a solid value in its price tier, but cautious buyers may want to seek out additional information or try one in person. Overall, it is a promising instrument for rock oriented players who can accept a few unknowns. The score reflects the strong core feature set tempered by the missing specifications.

Strengths and Limitations

Alternatives to Consider

Sterling by Music Man Cutlass CT50 Plus

Players wanting a versatile HSS solidbody with a roasted maple neck and onboard mid boost.

Read the Sterling by Music Man Cutlass CT50 Plus review →

ESP LTD GL-200MT

Hard rock and metal players who want a focused single humbucker superstrat with a locking tremolo and George Lynch style graphics.

Read the ESP LTD GL-200MT review →

Schecter Omen Extreme-FR

Intermediate to advanced electric guitarists who want a double-locking tremolo system and aggressive pickup tones in a mid-range instrument.

Read the Schecter Omen Extreme-FR review →

Questions Buyers Ask