Review Sterling Cutlass CT50: The Truth

So, guys, let's be clear. When you're looking for a guitar that won't break the bank but gives you something more than the usual entry-level, the options become interesting. Especially if, like me, you like to get your hands dirty and maybe make some modifications. Today we're putting under the magnifying glass the Sterling by Music Man Cutlass CT50. It's not a life-changing guitar, but it could be a great foundation, or a faithful companion for quite some time.

I remember when I got my first "serious" guitar with the intention of modding it. I spent a fortune on a custom body and neck, I messed up the paint, and eventually realized that maybe it was better to start with something already decent and improve what wasn't working. The CT50, honestly, is exactly that kind of guitar. It's not perfect, I'll never tell you that, but it has some serious chops.

Who should look at this guitar? Well, the amateur musician who wants an upgrade from his first Squier or Epiphone. The hobbyist looking for a project guitar modification without breaking the bank on the starting point. Or simply for those who want a versatile, well-built guitar for its price range, without too many frills. It's for those on a budget but don't want to compromise excessively on basic quality.


over the years I've had the opportunity to get my hands on several Sterling by Music Man Cutlass CT50, both mine and those of friends who asked me for a setup or a pickup change. I've seen merits, I've seen flaws, and I've understood that, as always, the value of an instrument is not just its list price, but how much it allows you to do, how much it inspires you, and how easy it is to work on it to make it your own.

Technical Features: What's Under the Hood?

Let's start with the specifications, because numbers and materials matter, especially when talking about a base for future projects. The Sterling Cutlass CT50 comes with a configuration that winks at the classic, but with some modern touches that don't hurt. Body: The body is made of poplar (Poplar). It's not the ash or alder of more renowned models, but poplar is a light and resonant wood. It doesn't have an exaggerated tonal character, which makes it an excellent blank canvas for pickups. In terms of weight, we are usually around 3.5-3.8 kg, a comfortable weight for long sessions.
Handle: Here comes the highlight, or at least one of the highlights. The neck is made of roasted maple (Roasted Hard Maple). This is no small feat for this price range. Roasted maple is thermally treated, which makes it more stable, less subject to humidity variations, and with a silkier and smoother feel to the touch. Trust me, you can feel the difference. The profile is a comfortable Modern “C”,
it's too often
it's too thin.
Keyboard: It is usually also roasted maple, sometimes it is found in laurel (Laurel), but most recent CT50s feature roasted maple fretboards. It has a 12″ (30.5 cm) radius, a bit flatter than a vintage Stratocaster, which facilitates bending without “fretting out”.
Keys: 22 Medium Jumbo frets. A good compromise for playability. They are not as thin as vintage ones
They are as huge as jumbos and adapt to different styles.
Stairs: The classic Fender 25.5″ (64.8 cm) scale. Standard and familiar.
Pick-up: Three Alnico V single coils (SSS configuration). These pickups are the heart of the Cutlass's versatility. They offer classic single coil sounds, bright and clear, but with the warmth of Alnico V.
Controls: A volume pot, a tone pot, and a 5-way selector switch. Simple and functional, it allows you to access all the single coil combinations.
Bridge: A vintage-style fulcrum tremolo. It's not a Floyd Rose, but it does the job for light to medium use. Tuning stability, as we'll see, depends heavily on a good setup.
Mechanics: And here's another plus: locking tuners. A rarity and a huge plus for this price range. They help a lot with tuning, especially when using the tremolo, and make string changes easier.
Capo: 42mm PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), a sturdy plastic. It's not bone or Tusq, but it's a decent material.
Finish: Gloss body, satin-finished handle on the back for optimal glide. The colors vary, but they are always well executed.
Relevant construction notes: The truss rod is dual-action, meaning you can adjust both the concave and convexity of the neck, a nice plus. Access to the truss rod is via the heel (heel-mount), like on original Music Man models, which is convenient because you don't have to remove the neck.

These are the specs on paper. They look good, right? And indeed they are. But as always, the real story unfolds when you pick it up, play it, and maybe even take it apart a bit’.

Popular Sentiment: What’s Being Said Around?

I’m not the only one who got my hands on a Sterling Cutlass CT50. I spent hours on forums, read reviews, talked to other guitarists. And the picture that emerges is quite consistent.

The first thing that stands out, and that everyone confirms, is the quality of the neck. That roasted maple neck with locking tuners? It’s a game changer for this price range. Many say that alone is worth the price of the guitar. The playability is excellent, the stability too. It’s a neck you’d expect on much more expensive instruments. I haven’t often found such a comfortable and well-finished neck on a guitar under 600-700 euros.

Then there’s the ergonomics. The Cutlass is a comfortable guitar to play, balanced, light. The body shapes, inspired by the original Music Man, are well designed. It doesn’t tire you out, whether sitting or standing. This is an often underestimated point, but for those who play for a long time, it’s fundamental.

The stock pickups, the three Alnico V single coils, are another point of discussion. Most users find them “decent” or “passable”. They are versatile, yes, and manage to cover a lot of genres, from blues to light rock, with a good clean and a decent crunch. The problem? They lack a bit of “character”. They don’t have that distinctive tone that makes you say “wow”. They are a bit generic, a bit flat for some. This makes them perfect as a base for those who want to experiment, but for those looking for a “ready” sound right away, they might be a disappointment.

And here we come to the flaws, those that the community doesn’t hide. The first is the nut. Although it’s made of PPS, a robust material, its slotting is not always perfect. This, along with a less than optimal factory setup, can cause tuning problems, especially when using the tremolo. It’s not a serious flaw, but it requires a bit of work: either you file it precisely (if you have the right tools, like specific nut files) or you replace it directly with one made of Tusq or bone. A relatively inexpensive modification that makes an abysmal difference.

Then there’s the bridge. The fulcrum tremolo is functional, but if you use it aggressively, tuning stability suffers. It’s not a high-quality “floating” tremolo. For light use, it’s fine, but if you’re a dive bomb fanatic, be prepared for surprises. Here too, a good setup with lubrication of contact points and adequate springs can improve the situation, but don’t expect miracles.

Finally, the fretwork. While the neck is generally well-made, the frets can sometimes have a few sharp edges or be a bit uneven. This isn't a problem endemic to all guitars, but it's something to be aware of. A good luthier (or you yourself, if you have the skills) can fix the problem with a little leveling and polishing of the frets. I've seen several CT50s where I had to do a little fret leveling And crowning to make them perfect. It's precision work, but it's doable.

The general consensus is that the Sterling Cutlass CT50 It's a guitar that offers incredible value for the price, especially considering the neck and tuners. But to get the most out of it, a little work and a few small upgrades are almost a must. It's an honest guitar that shows you its true colors.

Pros and Cons in Relation to Price

Let's take a closer look, weighing its pros and cons, while keeping in mind the price of this guitar. We're talking about a price range between 450 and 600 euros, depending on the offers and the time of year.

PROS of the Sterling Cutlass CT50:

1. Roasted Maple Neck: This is the flagship model. There's not much else to say except that it offers a level of comfort and stability rarely found at this price. The feel is superb, and the glide is excellent. #2. Blocking Mechanics: Another unexpected strength. The locking tuners dramatically improve tuning stability and make string changes a pleasure. An upgrade that, if done aftermarket, would cost quite a bit. n3. Ergonomics and Comfort: The body shape is comfortable, well-balanced, and the weight is light. Playing the Cutlass for hours is no problem.n4. Basic Timbre Versatility: Alnico V single-coil pickups, while lacking any distinctive character, are honest and versatile. They allow you to seamlessly transition between various genres, from bright clean to crunch. They're a good foundation.n5. Great Base for Modifications: If you like to tinker, this is your blank canvas. The neck and body are solid. You can swap out the pickups, electronics, bridge, and nut and transform it into a truly custom, high-quality instrument, spending less than starting from scratch.n6. Overall Build Quality: Aside from the minor flaws mentioned, the construction is solid. The joints are clean, and the paint job is well done. It doesn't feel like a cheap guitar.

CONS of the Sterling Cutlass CT50:

1. Standard Electronics: The pots and selector switch are functional, but of standard quality. They may introduce some noise or not have the smoothest response. Upgrading to CTS pots and a Switchcraft selector switch is a modification I highly recommend, and it's inexpensive. n2. Capo: It's often the first weak point in terms of tuning stability. The carving can be imprecise. Replacing it with a Tusq or bone one is almost a must for those seeking maximum performance.n3. Tremolo Bridge: It works for light use, but it's not the most reliable for heavy use. If you're a "whammy bar hero," you may need to consider an upgrade or accept its limitations.n4. Occasional Fretwork: While the neck is exceptional, the frets may sometimes need smoothing and polishing to be perfect. This doesn't guarantee a defect, but it's a possibility.n5. “Generic” Pickups: As mentioned, they're versatile but lack the "mojo" or unique character some seek. For many, they'll be the first component to be replaced.

In short, the Sterling Cutlass CT50 It offers you a neck and basic hardware (tuners) that are above its price range. In exchange, it asks you to accept that the electronics, nut, and bridge aren't top-notch, and that perhaps a little luthiery work on the frets might be necessary. It's a fair compromise, I'd say. Many guitarists would just pay for the neck and tuners separately, then assemble the rest. Here, everything is already assembled and working.

Who It Is Suitable For and Who Should Avoid It

Understanding who a product is intended for is crucial. There is no perfect guitar for everyone. Sterling by Music Man Cutlass CT50 It has its own well-defined audience, but also those who should stay away from it.

Who Should Definitely Consider the Cutlass CT50:

The Intermediate Guitarist Looking for an Upgrade: If you're coming from an entry-level guitar and want something more without breaking the bank, the CT50 is a significant step up. The neck and playability will make you feel right at home.
The Modding and DIY Enthusiast: This is its bread and butter. You have a solid foundation with a fantastic neck. You can have fun changing the pickups, wiring, pots, bridge, and nut. Transform it into a guitar that, with a relatively small additional investment (say, another €150-250 for pickups, electronics, and nut), can compete with instruments costing €1,000 or more. I myself, if I were starting a project on a limited budget, would seriously consider it.
Those looking for versatility: The SSS configuration and balanced sound make it suitable for playing a wide range of genres, from pop to rock, from blues to funk. It's a guitar for the studio, the rehearsal room, and, with the right modifications, even on stage.
Those who appreciate comfort and playability: The roasted handle and ergonomic body are undeniable strengths. If comfort is a priority for you, you'll love the Cutlass.
Who Wants a “Taste” of the Music Man World: Without having to shell out thousands of dollars for an original Music Man, the Sterling offers a very similar feel and aesthetic, with some of the same distinctive features (like the heel access to the truss rod).

Who Should Probably Avoid the Cutlass CT50:

For those looking for a perfect “Plug-and-Play” guitar out of the box: If you don't want to do a thorough setup or consider any minor modifications, you might be disappointed. Many guitars in this price range benefit from a good initial setup, but the Cutlass, with its nut and bridge, might require more careful attention.
The Vintage Sound Purist: If you're looking for the exact sound of a '60s or '70s Stratocaster, the Cutlass' stock pickups won't give you that. They don't have that distinctive vintage "voice." Aftermarket pickups exist for that, but then you have to factor in the investment.
Who Plays Extreme Genres: For more intense metal or genres that require high-output humbuckers, the CT50's single coils aren't the ideal choice. Sure, you can swap in single-coil humbuckers or reroute them, but at that point, it might be better to start with a guitar already set up differently.
For those who have no intention of picking up a guitar: If the thought of changing a pickup or filing a nut scares you, and you just want to play, then there are other options that may offer greater perfection “out of the box” (though often at a slightly higher price or with compromises on other features).

In short, if you are a practical type, who likes to get the most out of your investment and is not afraid to get your hands dirty customizing the instrument, the Sterling Cutlass CT50 It's an excellent choice. If, however, you're looking for perfection from the first chord and don't want to worry about anything, it might be better to look elsewhere or consider the additional cost of a complete professional setup.

Final Advice and Alternatives

So, the question is: the Sterling Cutlass CT50 is it worth it?
My answer, as someone who's spent years assembling and disassembling guitars in the garage, is a resounding yes. But with reservations, as always.

If you're a guitarist who's past the beginner stage and looking to take a step up without breaking the bank, the CT50 is a fantastic option. It's a guitar that gives you a neck that, by itself, justifies much of the price. The locking tuners are a huge bonus. The body is comfortable and balanced. The stock pickups are decent, but this guitar's true potential unlocks once you decide to get your hands on it.

My heartfelt advice:

Buy the Sterling Cutlass CT50, but immediately plan on an extra budget of 100-200 euros for essential upgrades.n1. Replace the nut: A well-carved Tusq or bone nut solves most tuning problems. It's a small investment but makes a huge difference. If you don't know how to do it, take it to a luthier, it will cost you little.n2. Electronics Upgrade: Change the potentiometers and selector switch with quality components (e.g., CTS for pots, Switchcraft for the selector). This will improve control response and reduce noise.n3. Pickups (optional but recommended): If the stock pickups don't satisfy you, choose a set that suits your genre. There are tons of options on the market, from vintage sets to more aggressive single coils. This is the modification that will most radically change the sound of your Cutlass.n4. Professional Setup: If you're not familiar with setup, take it to a luthier for a complete setup: truss rod adjustment, string height, intonation, tremolo action. It will make the difference between a “decent” guitar and one that “sounds amazing”.

With these measures, the Sterling by Music Man Cutlass CT50 can transform from a good budget guitar into an instrument that, in terms of feel and sound, can rival models costing double or triple. It's the classic example of “value for money” if you're willing to get your hands a little dirty, or invest just enough to make it shine.

Alternatives to Consider:

If the Cutlass doesn't completely convince you, or you want to explore other options in the same price range, here are some valid alternatives: Yamaha Pacifica 611/612: Pacificas have always been a benchmark for value. They offer excellent playability, standard Seymour Duncan pickups (often a humbucker at the bridge and two single coils or a P90 at the neck), and quality hardware. They are very versatile and often require no immediate modifications.
Squier Classic Vibe Series: If you're looking for a more traditional feel and a more "vintage" sound without spending a lot, the Classic Vibe is excellent. It has a great neck, alnico pickups, and impressive build quality for the price. They're a little less "modern" than the Cutlass, but they're solid instruments.
Ibanez AZES Series: Another very interesting series for those looking for excellent value for money. AZES guitars are extremely versatile, with a focus on modern playability and an attractive design. They often feature HSS configurations and a reliable tremolo bridge.
* Harley Benton Fusion-III: If your budget is even tighter and you're not afraid of a lesser-known brand, the Harley Benton Fusion-III offers incredible specs for the price (roasted neck, stainless steel frets, Roswell humbucker, Wilkinson bridge). They almost always require a thorough setup and maybe some minor tweaking, but the potential is enormous.

The final choice always depends on you, your tastes, your budget and your desire to get your hands on it. Sterling Cutlass CT50 It's an honest guitar that, with a little love and attention, can become a real gem.

To learn more about the Cutlass CT50's specs and color options, visit the official Sterling by Music Man website. It's always a good idea to check the source for the latest models.
Sterling by Music Man Cutlass Series

I hope this detailed analysis helps you make the right decision. Remember, in the world of DIY, every guitar is a project waiting to be completed. And the Cutlass CT50 is an excellent starting point.

See also

• Sire Larry Carlton H7: Full Review
• Pacifica 612VIIFM Review: Pros and Cons