Both the 15 years old X20 and the 2016 X7 that I have around do not have flat frets at all, up to yhe latest fret. Same with my Rainsongs that have an incredibly awesome fretwork, no flat frets at all and perfect consistent fret endings on both side of the neck. In fact, if I were the OP, I would be particularly upset about the sloppy fretwork. Other details can escape, but frets with flat tops are made INTENTIONALLY in order to level the fretboard, but this is acceptable only on super cheap guitars. I had two Alvarez guitars in the past, one cost $300 the other was a baritone and cost $380, and the fretwork was way better than the one thay they have done to the OP's 3k Emerald. I say it again, the guy who did that job, did it intentionally, and Alistair should have a talk with him...
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