Charvel is taking the San Dimas story back to California.
The guitar brand has introduced two new USA-made American Neo-Classic San Dimas models: the Style 1 SD1 HH FR MPL and the SD1 HH HT MPL. Built in Corona, California, the guitars draw from the San Dimas design that helped define the sound and look of hard rock in the 1980s while adding modern features for today’s players.
“Charvel was born in California, and so was this guitar. The American Neo-Classic San Dimas is a direct line back to where it all started, the shop, the craft, the obsession with making instruments that players actually want to play,” says Jon Romanowski, Vice President of Product for Charvel. “Building it in Corona feels like coming full circle. The JB/’59 pickup pairing delivers on every level, and the finishes feel as iconic as the guitar itself.”
Both models feature the classic Seymour Duncan JB/’59 pickup pairing, offering warm neck tones, high-output bridge bite, and the kind of versatility that has made the combo a go-to for generations of rock and metal players. Stainless steel jumbo frets add durability and a fast feel, while streamlined controls keep the focus on playing.
The SD1 HH FR MPL comes loaded with a top-mount Floyd Rose double-locking bridge for dive bombs, squeals, and aggressive tremolo work. The SD1 HH HT MPL swaps in a Charvel hardtail bridge for players who want maximum resonance and rock-solid tuning stability.
Finish options across the two models include Robin’s Egg Blue, Ivory Blitz, Gloss Black, Racing Red, and Velvet Midnight.
To mark the launch, Charvel is rolling out exclusive artist videos, including a clip featuring DWEEZIL ZAPPA tearing into the American Neo-Classic San Dimas at a California skate park.
From SoCal repair shop roots to arena-ready shred machines, Charvel’s latest San Dimas models bring the brand’s California legacy back into sharp focus.
