Schecter Guitar Research MVP C-4 Bass Black Reign
The Schecter MVP C-4 is Vincent Price's signature 4-string built for metal and hard rock bassists who need precision and punishing low-end. Features active EMG pickups, through-body stringing, and Price's signature coffin inlays in a satin Black Reign finish. At $1,349, it's a premium instrument targeting working players and collectors who want something darker than your typical Fender.
Critics
Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Active EMG 35P4/35J pickups deliver modern, high-output metal tone with plenty of cut
- +Through-body stringing and Hipshot bridge improve sustain and tuning stability
- +Vincent Price signature appointments (coffin inlays, custom headstock) give it unique stage presence
- +34-inch scale and comfortable neck profile make it accessible for traditional bass players
- +Schecter's reputation for quality control at this price tier is solid
Cons
- −Active electronics mean battery maintenance and potential mid-gig failures if you forget to swap them
- −Signature model aesthetic (coffins, horror theme) won't appeal to everyone—limits versatility
- −At $1,349, you're competing with used Musicman and G&L basses that may hold value better
- −Very limited user review data makes it hard to assess long-term reliability
The Verdict
Scoring 73, the MVP C-4 sits in ‘solid’ territory—not groundbreaking, but competent for the price. The Vincent Price signature appointments are love-it-or-hate-it; if you’re into the horror aesthetic and need a metal-ready bass with modern electronics, this delivers. The EMG pickups and hardware are pro-grade, and Schecter’s QC at this tier is generally reliable. That said, $1,349 puts you in range of more versatile options unless you specifically want the Price signature vibe. The lack of substantial user reviews is a yellow flag—try before you buy if possible, and keep spare 9-volts in your gig bag.
