MusicRadar

Some may think it looks a little plain, but the Reflex plays fantastically.

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• Review

The Reflex is the latest recruit to Music Man's electric range, introduced earlier this year along with the Albert Lee HH. Like the Lee, this features twin humbuckers, while its styling echoes that of the earlier 25th Anniversary model.

In fact, the Reflex is essentially a mass-production equivalent of that limited edition, incorporating many of the same construction and component features, but in a less fancy and accordingly lower priced format.

Some guitarists still don't get Music Man's trademark four-plus-two tuner arrangement, or the accompanying stylishly small headstock, but this neat combination provides all-important straight string travel and ideal downward tension, without the need for nasty friction-inducing guides or retainers.

"It has an airy acoustic ring that's allied to resonant natural sustain and plugging in enhances this impression."

The Schaller M6-IND locking machineheads also contribute to stable tuning, as does an impeccably cut nut, this being the cleverly compensated design employed across the range since 2005 and offering improved intonation.

The one-piece, bolt-on maple neck lacks any figuring and looks a little bland accordingly, but the subtly asymmetric profile, as used on other modern Music Man models, has instant feel appeal.

Playability is further enhanced by the sleek surface supplied by this maker's special oil and wax treatment. Only the headstock is gloss-painted, with the face matching the body finish; a nice bit of colour coordination that's normally an extra cost option, but is standard on the Reflex.

The flattish radius rosewood fingerboard maintains this warm welcome, as do all 22 consistently smooth medium gauge frets. The latter are left quite tall, but not so tall that they're likely to pose you any pressure-related intonation problems. Their partner position dots are standard size, departing from the mini tradition established on earlier Music Man six-strings.

Down at the body end, this maker's wheel-type truss-rod adjuster allows easy and effective neck tweaks, while five screws ensure firm anchorage in a precision cut pocket, with a curved top neckplate matching a contoured body heel that improves upper fret fingering.

The body outline is borrowed directly from the 25th Anniversary, which means measurements are again slightly bigger than those of the Axis, although the end result is comfortable and compact.

Construction is another common feature, employing the same chambered basswood chassis with a central mahogany tone block and maple top - a combination that was first seen on the 20th Anniversary Silhouette.

Unlike the Anniversary models, the Reflex foregoes a fancy front, presenting a plain face that confirms its lower price. Adding £100 to the asking price, the vintage sunburst finished top is contrasted by equally high-shine black elsewhere, the division being marked by cream front edge binding. This follows a gentle forearm contour, while the back incorporates a bass side bevelled edge that creates extra creature comfort.