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The Peavey “Vortex 2” “Flying V” has screw fastening Kahler nut lock and – down at the bridge end – the obligatory all-black Kahler being its usual exemplary self. We have our reservations about nut locks (as regular readers will know) in that they prevent rapid on-stage string changes, but there’s no escaping the fact that, once locked, the Kahler nut-lock/floating trem system certainly does allow the most savage and extreme tremolo use without any more losses in tuning stability other than those caused by normal string stretching – and that factor is easily taken care of with the bridge mounted tuners. Assuming you like the relatively light feel of the Kahler, and can live with the way it slows you down when changing strings, then you’ll appreciate the fitment of it on the Vortex. The Vortex 2 uses a pair of Peavey’s own P-12 adjustable pole piece humbuckers. These are linked to one of the clumsiest (although it is, at least, silent operating) three-way selector switches around, plus just two rotary pots, one volume and a tone. Nothing clever, no actives, coil taps, phase switches – just a simple, straightahead soloist’s set-up, and none the worse for that. The Peavey handles very much as you’d hope. The neck is slim and blindingly fast (a lot like a good Strat), and all the modem stylistic solo tricks come easily to hand. The Kahler has all the potential for extravagant use that this type affords, and overall the new Peavey feels like a thoroughly well designed and developed heavy guitarist’s instrument. Soundwise, the P-12 humbuckers deliver bags of sustain and poke, overdriving even cheap transistor guitar combos with ease. Arguably there may be a lack of top for some tastes, and it might be useful if Peavey considered fitting a coil tap to allow single coil use at some stage in the future. Nevertheless, used with a decent amp and good speakers, the Peavey has a sound as hot as its colour. Sustain, sheer power and a gut-wrenching drive are the hallmarks of this instrument, and if that makes it seem unsuitable for Pop, Jazz, Reggae, Country and Folk playing that’s just fine – because this guitar has obviously been designed as a fire-breathing monster. As such it works exceptionally well and will appeal to any guitarist working in this field. It isn’t meant to be a subtle guitar, which is just as well because it’s about as delicate and genteel as an afternoon on the assault course with the SAS! Peavey may have some initial problems convincing players who’ve previously ignored their guitars to even try the Vortex 1 or 2, but don’t let prejudice stop you – for its destined purpose this is a great guitar. Our only reservation about the Vortex, in fact, is the price. Initially, $1200  didn’t seem so much for an American instrument, especially taking the Kahler into account, but on reflection we feel that the full RRP may be too close to the price of better known U.S., guitars and – worse – some of the custom made alternatives. Given the ministrations of the discounters, however, the Vortex could look like a cast iron prospect for the dedicated metallurgist. This Guitar was sold to me by the famous musician/lead guitarist “John Charles Bobbit” $300.00 in 2006