CHAPMAN ML 1 MODER N BARITONE

Expanding the Chapman empire

Chapman guitars are building a nice reputation...

For a relative newcomer, this UK brand is fast getting a name for itself and the ML1 here is a great example of why. For a shade under £450 you get a very well-made, nicely thought-out instrument with superb attention to detail. Small things like the binding on the body, the rounded heel joint and locking tuners all add up to a guitar that is above what you’d expect for that level of spend.

Looks like it’s best suited to heavier styles?

Yep, although it’s not a one-trick pony by any means. Clearly, djent-style riffers are going to benefit from the high output humbuckers, and the guitar has an overall heft to it, thanks to the alder body and ash top. But it’s far more versatile than it may first appear, largely down to the coil-splittable pickups, which offer an extra dimension tonally.

The finish looks great...

Yes, and the good news is that it’s even better up close. Ash, as we know, has very attractive graining anyway and the graphite finish on review here really wouldn’t look out of place on a much more expensive instrument.