How? When?

[22Frets]

How do you know when to mod a guitar? I have an Ibanez RG350dx that seems to have potential, but the stock p/u's are missing something. When do you know that an inexpensive hunk of basswood and maple has that potential to put as much money in pickups as the original guitar cost?

 

[jimbob137]

You don't really love that guitar do you? you wouldn't need to ask!

 

[22Frets]

You don't really love that guitar do you? you wouldn't need to ask!

I try and stay emotionally unattached to inanimate objects. You?

I have guitars I will not change because the tone is spot-on from the factory. An Am.Std. Telecaster, and my Gibsons fit this bill. And there is the rub - you get what you pay for. So, also consider the cost of p/u replacement vs upgrading to a RG Premium. Is there really a difference in wood, craftsmanship and tonality?

For me, it DOES come down to a cost/benefit analysis. Not an emotional yes or no that may not get me anywhere after $100's spent.

 

[jimbob137]

I don't personally understand not being emotionally attached to it. That to me seems strange, I like to bond with mine! I think it's important. To call your guitar an inanimate object almost seems like you couldn't even care for it and it has no life. Far from the experience i have with a guitar.
I bought my guitar because I loved it, I played it, I felt it, I listened to it and just loved it!. And the more time I have spent playing it, I have also improved things that bugged me about it or tones I wanted to bring out of it. It is a journey of discovery, growth and improvement for me. I will never sell this guitar!

The primary tone of that guitar will not change! If it has no vibe now, it won't ever have that! Mods will only help to enhance a guitar you already like the characteristics of. Making the mods will only help bring out the characteristics and quirks that you want to emphasize on!

The guitar clearly does not inspire you, so sell it! and buy something you REALLY like!

Hope that helps

 

[freddarl82]

For me, it DOES come down to a cost/benefit analysis. Not an emotional yes or no that may not get me anywhere after $100's spent.

Seems like you could try the used pickup route on ebay. LOT'S of decent Duncan's, Gibson's, Dimarzio's, etc. on there, and you will not have to spend "$100's" to try it. I average $35-50 per pickup for my e-bay finds.

 

[HOT-BRIT]

you know when the guitar speaks to you and not before!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Phildog]

Why don't you upgrade the electronics and see what she can do. But if you look at her as "an inexpensive piece of basswood and maple", in your mind, she may never sound good to you. Save your money and invest it in your Gibson or Fender.

 

[cnew]

Its YOUR cost-benefit analysis, you shouldn't have to ask us. You know what you want, only you know what's best for you