Gear Review: Charming Liars lead guitarist Karnig Manoukian on his Fender 1975 Starcaster

We recently had the pleasure of to speak with UK band Charming Liars’ lead guitarist Karnig Manoukian and ask him a few questions about his instrument of choice. Karnig has likely only been improving his skills and technique with his Fender 1975 Starcaster, as Charming Liars have been on the Rockstar Uproar Festival for the past month. In between dates and after the Uproar Festival concludes, Charming Liars will be supporting the Sick Puppies on tour through the Midwest United States. Charming Liars have a new EP out titled New Disorder.

What one piece of equipment do you use to obtain your signature sound?
Karnig: Fender 1975 Starcaster.

What about it makes it so important to you?
Karnig: Firstly it’s a hollow body and that gives it a great deep sound as well as aspects of that classic fender twangy sound. It also has a huge body which i love as I’m quite a big guy!!

What are the major pros and cons?
Karnig: Pros: big body / sexy! / long long neck / sounds warm and delicious! Cons: doesn’t stay in tune as much as I’d like it to / very heavy!

How long have you used this piece of equipment and would you ever change it?
Karnig: I’ve had my first Starcaster for about 5 years. I’ve used it on pretty much every recording we’ve done and I’ve played it at almost every show! I would never change a thing!

What initially attracted you to using this particular piece of gear?
Karnig: The fact that it’s huge. The first time I saw one was when I went to see The Killers live and I loved the look of it instantly. There’s nothing better than a Fender!

Any final thoughts or comments on the gear?
Karnig: Me and my Starcaster are one!

Check out the song “New Disorder”