Yamaha has officially expanded its acclaimed Revstar lineup with the release of the RS02CB, a signature model developed in meticulous collaboration with soulful blues-rock virtuoso Chris Buck.
Based on the Yamaha Custom Shop model that has been Buck’s primary instrument since 2020, the RS02CB (finished in a striking Honey Gold) aims to bring the South Wales native’s specific tonal DNA to guitarists worldwide. From the stages of Cairo to the clubs of California, Buck’s “one-of-a-kind” Revstar has become an icon of modern guitar playing; now, that same performance-ready spec is available to the public.
Engineered for the Road: Chambered Body and Carbon Reinforcement
At the heart of the RS02CB is Yamaha’s exclusive Acoustic Design process. Utilizing advanced measurement and modeling tools, Yamaha engineers have strategically chambered the mahogany and maple body. This process doesn’t just reduce weight for long touring sets; it specifically tunes the wood’s resonance to increase low-end response and mid-range punch.
Stability is paramount for a touring musician. To ensure the guitar withstands the rigors of travel and changing climates, the three-piece mahogany neck features carbon reinforcement rods. This ensures the neck remains straight and the action consistent, whether you’re playing in a humid club or a dry studio.
Custom-Voiced P90 Pickups: The Secret to the “Buck” Tone
While many modern guitars lean toward high-output electronics, the RS02CB takes a different path. Chris Buck opted for a set of custom-voiced P90-style pickups tuned for a slightly lower output.
This design choice provides a significantly wider dynamic range. At low volumes, the guitar remains crystal clear and articulate; when pushed, it delivers an open, organic growl that responds to the player’s touch. It is an instrument designed for “soulful expression” rather than brute force.
High-Spec Hardware and Aesthetic Touches
Staying true to Buck’s original Custom Shop model, the RS02CB features a TonePros AVT2 wraparound bridge. This hardware choice is celebrated by purists for its rock-solid tuning stability and superior energy transfer from the strings to the body.
Visually, the guitar exudes a vintage-modern class. The Honey Gold finish is complemented by amber hat knobs and a cream pickguard. A subtle, elegant nod to the collaboration sits on the back of the headstock: Chris Buck’s signature.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Yamaha RS02CB
What makes the Chris Buck Signature different from a standard Revstar? The RS02CB is specifically modeled after Chris Buck’s 2020 Custom Shop guitar. It features a unique Honey Gold finish, custom-voiced lower-output P90 pickups for better dynamics, and a TonePros AVT2 wraparound bridge, which differs from the bridges found on the standard Element or Standard series Revstars.
Is the body solid or hollow? The RS02CB features a chambered mahogany body with a maple top. This “Acoustic Design” approach reduces weight while enhancing the guitar’s natural resonance and vibration.
Who are the P90 pickups designed for? These pickups are ideal for players who value “touch sensitivity.” Because they are lower output, they don’t compress the signal as much as modern humbuckers, allowing your playing dynamics to shine through.
What is the benefit of a carbon-reinforced neck? Carbon rods add rigidity and “memory” to the wood. This makes the neck much less likely to warp or bow due to temperature and humidity changes—a vital feature for gigging musicians.
When will the Yamaha RS02CB be available? Shipping is expected to begin shortly through authorized Yamaha dealers worldwide.
Final Verdict: A Working Musician’s Dream
Yamaha has a long-standing reputation for building “workhorse” instruments that punch far above their price tag. Having previously released standout models like the SA503 (Troy Van Leeuwen), Yamaha continues its streak of high-quality collaborations with the RS02CB.
For fans of Chris Buck, this is a chance to own the specific tool behind his signature sound. For the general guitarist, it is a beautifully balanced, stable, and tonally rich P90 guitar that offers fantastic value for money. It is a fitting tribute to one of the hardest-working guitarists in the industry today.
Price & Availability
Available at Andertons, priced £1249
More Information
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