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About Ross
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
Over 15 years of guitar playing, teaching, building, and modifying; have worked as a touring musician, studio session guitarist, engineer, guitar tech, and guitar teacher. Registered member of ASCAP. Registered member of Freelancers Union. I have a working knowledge of music theory and styles, and a taste for all types of music and instruments. If you have a favorite guitar player or style, chances are I share it! If you have a question I can't answer, I'll rely on experienced and knowledgeable people I know to get the correct information for you, and I hope I can help inspire your playing style and tone. Promo photography by Sebastian Castillo at Castillo Photography, San Diego, CA.

Experience
I hope that by answering questions thoroughly and giving insightful answers, I can have a positive impact on someone's playing style and tone - help them get their perfect sound.

You are here: Experts > Music/Performing Arts > Musical Instruments > Electric Guitars

Questions Answered By Expert Ross
In Category Electric Guitars

Subject	Date Asked

my first guitar	8/27/2008
Q: So I'm buying my first guitar and I was wondering what the best brands are for acoustics? A: Tahirah: I had some difficulty this past week that required my re-activation of my account. Your ...
Repairing Pick-ups	8/27/2008
Q: I had an Accident with my guitar that resulted in my neck humbucker to "cave in" to its cavity.I've ... A: Christopher! I had some difficulty this past week that required my re-activation of my account. ...
how much	8/27/2008
Q: i need some help please!!! i was wandering if you could let me know about how much mt fender squire ... A: Dave: I had some difficulty this past week that required my re-activation of my account. Your ...
nirvana chorus sound	8/26/2008
Q: i have recently brought the right pedels kurt used the boss ds1 and the small clone chorus pedel, ... A: Dean: I had some difficulty this past week that required my re-activation of my account. Your ...
BC Rich ST-III Production Date	8/26/2008
Q: Ross! I have a BC Rich ST-III with the serial number BC11252. I have searched continuously for ... A: Tony: I had some difficulty this past week that required my re-activation of my account. Your ...
What should I do?	8/26/2008
Q: I was probably going to be in the band or jazz band but my plan backfired.......but I think for the ... A: Steve! Actually, I know quite a bit about starting a band and playing gigs. First, know that ...
amps	8/26/2008
Q: i dont know if u can help me out with this i have sent multiple messages to different sites and ... A: Joe: I had some difficulty this past week that required my re-activation of my account. Your ...
unwanted picking sound	8/26/2008
Q: i play mostly metallica, accept and black sabbath. needless to say i like lots of dist. im self ... A: Larry! An active pickup is a high-output pickup that has its own battery power (yours aren't). EMG ...
Wiring help	8/24/2008
Q: I recently bought some Fender SCN pickups I wired them to my pickguard without the S-1 Switching ... A: Chris! Try checking this link: http://www.guitarelectronics.com/category/.wiringresources/ Here ...
on/off/on killswitch	8/24/2008
Q: I read that you managed to wire a Gibson 3-way toggle as an on/off/on killswitch. I'm attempting the ... A: Chris: If you e-mail me at my personal e-mail at: j-ross@rock.com, I'll send you the exact wiring ...
Whemmy bar problem	8/21/2008
Q: I just got Mexican fender stratocaster from a friend and i don't know anything about el.guitars. ... A: Luka! It sounds to me like you have the spring mechanism set improperly, and it may be screwed in ...
unwanted picking sound	8/20/2008
Q: i play mostly metallica, accept and black sabbath. needless to say i like lots of dist. im self ... A: Larry: Are you using active pickups? Knowing this will help me a ton. Also, any other specific ...
New neck for a strat	8/19/2008
Q: I recently purchased a 57 reissue relic strat body (i mainly bought it because it was a relic). Now ... A: Thom: The new neck would be appropriate if it has the same scale (25.5"). It is true that you ...
looping my effects	8/15/2008
Q: .basically i play through a mesa boogie dual rectifier thru a marshall jcm 900 cabinet ..my effects ... A: Al: I think it would be very helpful to you to search the archives of my answers; I've answered ...
Effects loop	8/9/2008
Q: Just one further question, i got this reply when asking tc electronics about using the G force ... A: Matt! I think you might benefit from a forum posting at TC Electronics - a premier manufacturer of ...
upgrading a guitar	8/7/2008
Q: I bought a cheap guitar several years ago to learn on and I'm thinking upgrading it for better ... A: Al: Well, if the guitar sounds "pretty good" as you say, then maybe some upgrades will not be so ...
I need a new amp, man.	8/7/2008
Q: once again, thank you in advance for your great help. So, here's my little dilemma. I've only been ... A: Justin: Thanks so much for your kind words - it's good to know that I can help out! Now, as to ...
getting her to admit it	8/7/2008
Q: Could you recomend a good electric guitar for a beginner that doesent cost too much? A: Brian: There are many good guitars available, and I can't point you to one particular brand or ...
upgrading a guitar	8/4/2008
Q: I bought a cheap guitar several years ago to learn on and I'm thinking upgrading it for better ... A: Al! Well, there are a couple of considerations to replacing pickups. First, know that a pickup can ...
1960's Silvertone 1484 Troubles!	8/2/2008
Q: I have a 1960's Silvertone 1484 Twin Twelve tube amp. It's been my favorite amp for some time even ... A: Andy! I, too, have an old Silvertone, 60-watt tube amp (1 X 12) that absolutely smokes newer amps, ...
Amp Buzz	8/2/2008
Q: One further question on my Marshall TSL100. As mentioned my local stores are on commission so never ... A: Matt! Well, it could be something as simple as your proximity to lighting or a bad wiring system, ...
Ibanez RG370DX Edge III Tremolo Replacemen	7/31/2008
Q: I've been told by numerous sources that The Edge III Tremolo by Ibanez is made of an alloy that will ... A: Lawrence: The Ibanez Edge is a great tremolo system! I will say, though, that they're right about ...
Pickup Wiring	7/28/2008
Q: Hey I'm building a guitar and i've bought these pickups. Im building 2 guitars so i will need help ... A: Cameron! The other person is correct about the wrap of the wire being the ground of your pickup. ...
Amp effects loop	7/27/2008
Q: I have a Marshall tsl100. I have used a multi fx in the amps loop (send/return) using the multi fx's ... A: Matt: You can run virtually any effect through a loop with varying degrees of success. Please ...
Dobro	7/23/2008
Q: I just started to learn to play slide guitar and was looking on ebay to possibly purchase a dobro ... A: Don: You could play a Dobro like a regular guitar (I've seen it done many times), but your friend ...
AC30 Reverb Unit/ Replacement parts	7/21/2008
Q: I bought a Vox AC30 reissue about a year and a half ago, recently I ran into a problem with fuses ... A: Cory! I'm on a business trip this week, cross country....if you could, please e-mail me at my ...
I need a new amp, man.	7/20/2008
Q: once again, thank you in advance for your great help. So, here's my little dilemma. I've only been ... A: Justin: Thanks so much for your extended patience, my Brother! I usually prefer to answer ...
Killswitch	7/19/2008
Q: Could you explain how to wire in a three way lp switch into a strat to be an on/off/on killswitch ... A: Ryan! I'm on a cross-country business trip this week, and I don't have very much time to check up on ...
music scale identification	7/18/2008
Q: My question is that I was wondering what scale John Mayer is playing in the song "Stitched Up". Its ... A: Sam! I might disappoint you (in the short term) by my answer, but I ABSOLUTELY promise (Long-term) ...
Modulus Guitars	7/15/2008
Q: Im curious if you could give me some insight about modulus guitars. I know that they popular for ... A: Ryan! You may already be aware that Modulus has a website currently under construction. This does ...
squier telecaster modifications	7/13/2008
Q: i was wondering... i have this custom II squier, (the one with the p-90's) and i want to know if ... A: Nbudo! Not only can you change the neck, but I'd suggest doing so; you'll make a pretty cool guitar ...
fender	7/9/2008
Q: I just bought a fender strato caster electric guitar it is black on the outside the goes a cola ... A: Carina! Well, I will tell you that your guitar is a very popular and playable instrument that will ...
My floyd rose keeps going out of tune	7/6/2008
Q: Hey Ross, I got an Ibanez RG 320FM with a liscensed Floyd Rose bridge. Now every time i do dive ... A: Ralph! It seems that you'd benefit from a pro setup. It's unusual for a Floyd Rose to go out of ...
guitar	7/5/2008
Q: i am thinking about making a guiatr and my theme is a reggae / rock guitar and iam thinking about ... A: Dylan! I applaud you on taking the challenge of building your own axe. That's not only a great way ...
6505 problem	7/5/2008
Q: When your standby led went out what was blown. And how did you fix it? How much were the repairs? A: Adam: This seems like it may be a partial question. Are you referring to a previous answer of mine ...
Floyd Rose	7/2/2008
Q: I am building my own guitar but i want to know how or if i can put a 2 or 3 way toggle switch on it. ... A: Cam! Well, finding quality Floyd Rose bridges is (and has been) an issue for many guitarists; so ...
Rockabilly Guitar	7/2/2008
Q: Hey Ross, I've been playing guitar for 7 years and I recently began to delve into the genre of ... A: Taylor! Kudos to you, first of all, for branching out and expanding your musical horizons. If I ...
Compressor/sustainer	7/1/2008
Q: I used a boss compressor sustainer in my fx loop on peavey valve king head with marshall cabinet. ... A: Thomas! The first thing I'd suggest doing is moving your compressor/sustainer from your effects ...
New Guitarist	6/27/2008
Q: I received a Fender Starcaster for my birthday, and I'm an unexperienced player. It came with a ... A: Pooch! Your brother is incorrect (score one for You!) The guitar was designed for the whammy to be ...
Changing Strat to light tension strings	6/25/2008
Q: Just changed my strat's strings to .09 to .42 strings and now they're completely flat against the ... A: Kai! It seems that what's happening here is that your guitar has been set up for heavier gauge ...
flame	6/24/2008
Q: yea i wanted to know how to create the smoke / flame look on a guitar for example the lead singer of ... A: Dylan: The "look" of figured maple tops is provided by using a figured maple top! This might seem ...
Kahler system on Les Paul style guitar	6/22/2008
Q: I have an Ibanez AR300, and I was thinking about making it more versatile. It's not an expensive ... A: Marin! Well, the difference between the Kahler systems and the Floyd Rose types are pretty ...
Cheaper effects	6/20/2008
Q: I may be alittle on the cheap side but hay. But the thing is the sounds i want aren't always in a ... A: Wyatt! Good question, I've had similar ones recently from others, so I'm glad you asked so it will ...
Charvel/jackson cx291	6/19/2008
Q: I have just recieved one from my cousin, im not a big 3 pickup guitar fan. He keeps telling me and ... A: Wyatt: Your Charvel Strat is really a quality guitar. I've played quite a few of these, and when ...
M1D1 Manson Guitar	6/17/2008
Q: G'day Ross, I've decided to build a guitar the same as Matt Bellamys M1D1 guitar made by Hugh Masnon ... A: Daniel: I'm a little unclear as to what you mean by "making it work." Are you asking how to ...
Aria model	6/15/2008
Q: I have an Aria guitar that belongs to my uncle and don't want him to know I have it til I am done ... A: Evan: I think your best bet is to contact the manufacturer, maybe with a picture or detailed ...
Yet another question.	6/14/2008
Q: Sorry to keep bothering you, but I happen to be relatively uneducated, although I've been playing ... A: Justin: Not a problem, man, that's what I'm here for! Now, your truss rod should be accessible ...
Guitar pick up problem?	6/11/2008
Q: I have 2 guitars that i am having the same problem with. Basically when i flip the pick up selector ... A: Conor: It sounds like the wiring is wrong altogether. It's unusual for pickups to just "go out," ...
Installation	6/9/2008
Q: I have a Les Paul style guitar, mahogany body, rosewood fingerboard, bolt-on neck. It's very close ... A: Emmerich: I haven't forgotten you; I simply want to ensure I give you the best answer. Hopefully, ...
Fender Atomic Humbucker installation	6/9/2008
Q: I purchased a Fender Squire Standard Straocaster HSS and have upgraded the pickups and humbucker to: ... A: John: Check this site and see if it helps you out; it gives you numerous ways to wire your guitar ...
Strat pickups	6/8/2008
Q: I've recently aquired a 1996 Chinese Squire Strat with a 50th anniversary fender sticker on the back ... A: Jake: It's possible; in fact, some of the "off-name" pickups are in fact very good. The frequency ...
Installation	6/7/2008
Q: I have a Les Paul style guitar, mahogany body, rosewood fingerboard, bolt-on neck. It's very close ... A: Emmerich: It seems to me your solution is to rout a separate body cavity in the rear for an ...
downward bend	6/4/2008
Q: I just bought (for almost nothing) a nice ash-bodied 70's japanese Strat copy. It is an Alcivar ... A: Remi: I'd think that you could fix this by simple truss rod adjustment, provided it's done ...
guitar cab ohms	6/3/2008
Q: I was wondering if it is possible/harmful to plug two 16 ohm cabs into a head with two 4 ohm outs, ... A: Jim: If you're using the matching cabinet to the Blackheart, it was designed to handle the load ...
Fender neck swap	6/2/2008
Q: Ross, I have a Fender '57 re-issue strat and am looking to swap the neck for something with at least ... A: Patrick: There are so many variations on Strat necks made by so many different makers, that not ...
Stratocaster toggle switch.	6/2/2008
Q: I am building my own guitar but i want to know how or if i can put a 2 or 3 way toggle switch on it. ... A: Cam: You can definitely get the pickguard custom-made; I do think, however, that you might be ...
Not sure what the problem is...	5/29/2008
Q: Ross, yet again. All right, so last time, I came to you because I couldn't figure out what year my ... A: Hey, Justin! I'm really glad you were able to get your issue solved; it's always good to hear ...
Tuning my new Shecter hellraiser w/ a tremolo to C	5/25/2008
Q: Well I got this guitar about a week ago and i wanted to tune my guitar to C and well you can guess ... A: Caleb! I've been having some computer issues the last couple weeks, and my 'Net has been dropping ...
Will this guitar pickup work?	5/24/2008
Q: Ross, I'm doing a science project to make an electric lap steel guitar. I just got a hold of an ... A: Nicholas: It's not unusual for pickups (especially older ones) to have "staggered" pole pieces; ...
electric guitar	5/19/2008
Q: what guitar should i get if i like mostly all types of rock A: Josh! I've been having some computer issues the last couple weeks, and my 'Net has been dropping ...
Guitar Pedal	5/19/2008
Q: I own several electric guitars that I play with my church band. I have to use a pedal with these ... A: I've been having some computer issues the last couple weeks, and my Net has been dropping ...
marshall valvestate 8100 tube	5/18/2008
Q: Hello I was wandering if I replaced the preamp tube in my 8100 with a groove tube would I notice ... A: Kevin! I've been having some computer issues the last couple weeks, and my 'Net has been dropping ...
Not sure what the problem is...	5/17/2008
Q: Ross, yet again. All right, so last time, I came to you because I couldn't figure out what year my ... A: Justin! I've been having some computer issues the last couple weeks, and my 'Net has been dropping ...
Humming Problems With A Killswitch	5/15/2008
Q: Okay, So I recentally got a killswitch installed on my strat by a professional at a guitar shop. ... A: Steven: I sincerely apologize for it having taken so long for me to get back to you; I've been ...
Fender Strat...pickups	5/13/2008
Q: I recently purchased the guitar of my dreams a Fender Strat, sunburst. I really love how it handles ... A: Don! I've been having some computer issues the last couple weeks, and my 'Net has been dropping ...
jaguar	5/12/2008
Q: I've got a Fender Jaguar and my tremolo bar doesn't lock/stay in place. Is there a way to make it ... A: John: This really isn't unusual. It won't "lock" in the way that some of the newer double-locking ...
Wood for guitar body	5/7/2008
Q: I want to try to build my own guitar, ive got access to pretty much all the tools required by ... A: Carl: Good question! If you're looking for lowest practice price, I'd think untreated pine is ...
Tuning my new Shecter hellraiser w/ a tremolo to C	5/6/2008
Q: Well I got this guitar about a week ago and i wanted to tune my guitar to C and well you can guess ... A: Caleb: You're right, Man, I know exactly what you experienced! What happened was that you lessened ...
Pitch shifter & Harmonizer	5/4/2008
Q: Greetings, Ross - my cyber guitar mentor! It has been a while since I last drop you a line, but ... A: Always nice to hear from you! This is a really good question, by the way. Pitch ...
new guitar set up/string buzzing	5/4/2008
Q: I just purchased a new SX SST LH w/ Floyd Rose tremolo. I recently got it set up by a local ... A: Tim: It sounds like you have an improperly set up guitar! I know what you mean by parting with ...
help needed for buying a fender strat	5/3/2008
Q: i wanna buy a fender strat. i've seen one in a store which is made in mexico , it's 2nd handed . i ... A: Hossein: The standard body wood for Fender's Stratocasters is alder; this is a premium, balanced ...
screws	5/2/2008
Q: i have a tanglewood nevada fst32k, and was wondering what the screws at the back of the bridge do ... A: Joe: Those screws, the ones that hold the springs to the body, are the tension/holders for the trem ...
1969 cortez les paul copy	5/2/2008
Q: I have a 1969 Cortez Les Paul Copy Black Beauty in about average condition. Original but for ... A: Rich: Not being a professional appraiser myself, I'm usually hesitant to answer “value” type ...
feedback	4/28/2008
Q: I was wondering what the best way to get feedback from a single coil gutar would be. I've got a ... A: John: There are a lot of factors that contribute to "usable" feedback. Some of these include: ...
kramer guitar identification	4/27/2008
Q: I bought a kramer guitar for $150 with a cracked neck. I would like to find out what model it is and ... A: Gary: It sounds to me like you have an original Baretta. These were awesome guitars! In the '80s ...
Samarium pickups	4/25/2008
Q: I'm going to put a Samarium Cobalt pickup into my American ash tele. The existing pickups are ... A: Bob: I don't think you'll need a special volume pot, or a different type of wiring, unless you ...
guitar id	4/25/2008
Q: In about 1990 i bought a used applause made by ovation. It looks almost exactly like a strat and ... A: Ben: I'm not really familiar with electric guitars of a Strat-style made by Ovation (I've normally ...
Bass tuning machine replacement question	4/21/2008
Q: I just replaced the stock Fender tuners on my Japanese Geddy Lee Jazz Bass with Hipshot HB2 bass ... A: Frank: If the replacement tuners fit as well as the originals, I think you shouldn't experience any ...
use a direct box?	4/20/2008
Q: I have some questions on sound setup. I have played electric and acoustic guitars for years but ... A: Allen: Your problem is actually a very common one. My engineer is constantly having to go to a ...
tube amp	4/17/2008
Q: My tube amp seem to have a loss in tone and seem to be very bassy. and i believe i have blown a ... A: Logan: If it is, in fact, a blown speaker, a speaker replacement will simply fix the problem; no ...
Guitar buzz when I touch any metal or the strings?	4/16/2008
Q: Hey mate, I'm a bit new to electric guitars, so sorry for the possibly novice question... I bought ... A: Mitch! That isn't a novice question, at all, no worries. In fact, it's a pretty common situation. ...
feed back	4/13/2008
Q: Ive got a 1957 gibson hollow body electric guitar, im playing out of a fender blues deluxe amplifier ... A: Sam: Sounds like you're experiencing what a lot of hollow-body players go through - the feedback ...
Special Switch?	4/7/2008
Q: I am going to have some major modding done on a Gibson Flying V, such as replace the fretboard and ... A: Freeze: Sounds like you have some pretty intricate wiring plans. Try these two suppliers (neither ...
Peavey 6505+ problem	4/7/2008
Q: Hey Ross, I was just searching the net for answers and came across this website so I'd thought I ... A: Justin: At this point, I'd take the amp to a tech for pro inspection. Amplifiers are simply too ...
7th Chords	4/6/2008
Q: I am a bit confused about 7th chords. I just need a little help. Say for instance with 7th chords in ... A: Gotcha. The way you'll understand better is to focus less on the first three notes of the chord, ...
7th Chords	4/6/2008
Q: I am a bit confused about 7th chords. I just need a little help. Say for instance with 7th chords in ... A: Conor: Good question! Seventh chords can get confusing due to the names. Just remember, that in ...
Electric Guitar Shopping	3/30/2008
Q: I've been playing guitar for a number of years, and would probably consider myself at least an ... A: Mike: Here's an article specifically aimed at guitar buyers, to protect them from the myths and ...
Stratocaster	3/30/2008
Q: It is a Basically Brand New Black Fender Mexican Standard Stratocaster HSS (humbucking ones) for ... A: Yuhta: Aaahh! This is one of my favorite myths to bust. The quality of different countries' makes ...
Gibson Les Paul	3/28/2008
Q: I have had a 1979 Gibson Les Paul Standard Gold Top for nearly 20 years. It is a reissue of an early ... A: Daz! I'm always a bit hesitant to answer "value" type questions, as appraisals are not my "thing" ...
Beginner's giutar.	3/27/2008
Q: I'm looking for guitar for beginner. I stopped on two values packs Ibanez IJX121 Metal Guitar ... A: ILLIA: I thought you might be interested in one of my recent articles, and it might help you out. ...
ESP	3/27/2008
Q: NOW HE USED THE GUITAR FOR METAL WITH VERY HIGH ACTION (UNUSUAL) BUT IM HAVING PROBLEMS SETTING THE ... A: Dale: You're going to have to go back to "zero" for the setup to end properly; easier to say than ...
Beginner's giutar.	3/27/2008
Q: I'm looking for guitar for beginner. I stopped on two values packs Ibanez IJX121 Metal Guitar ... A: Glad I could help. I'd say go for the Kramer Striker Custom FR-424CM; it's H/S/H (2 humbuckers, 1 ...
1993 nissan maxima	3/26/2008
Q: Trying to figure out why i don't have brake lights, turn signals, no horn, the dash board is ... A: Kenny: Hi, man! This is a little weird; I'm an expert only on guitars and musicianship - by no ...
Beginner's giutar.	3/26/2008
Q: I'm looking for guitar for beginner. I stopped on two values packs Ibanez IJX121 Metal Guitar ... A: ILLIA: Good question! I have a suggestion that is a little unorthodox; I do, however, feel that ...
archtops	3/25/2008
Q: I love the looks and sound of a es335 or gretch but cant aford one,can you give me a recommendation ... A: Mike! I completely understand your dilemma. The Gibson ES-335 and most Gretsch models are well out ...
the model of this guitar..	3/23/2008
Q: Do you know the model of this Aria, made in Japan and have been red there the yellow/gold color is. ... A: Juha: I apologize for it taking so long to get you a good answer; this week has been particularly ...
Changing the pickups in my Mex Strat...	3/21/2008
Q: I'm in the process of putting the new Fender Samarium Cobalt noiseless pickups in my new Mexican ... A: Don: The best info will likely come from the maker! Check out this link: ...
Speed loader system	3/21/2008
Q: hey man wats up. Ive recently been looking 4 a new guitar and i reely want one with a locking ... A: Ryan: A locking bridge and a speed-loader don't necessarily go hand-in-hand. For instance, I use ...
changing pickups in my mex strat	3/20/2008
Q: I am in the process of upgrading the pickups on my mexican stratocaster. The new pickups have a ... A: Don: I apologize that you've had to wait so long; this week has been particularly busy, as I've ...
6 screw knife tremolo to Floyd rose conversion	3/18/2008
Q: I'm currently in the process of refinishing a 1978 Cort Effector (Explorer style), and I plan on ... A: Brian: Check this link to get the routing info and templates direct from Floyd Rose: ...
p94T pickup	3/16/2008
Q: ok so im doing some mods to my les paul custom and im putting in a p94t which is the bridge ... A: Troy: Is/was the issue that it wasn't working at all, or that it didn't sound "good?" These are ...
Bass Line	3/16/2008
Q: What is a "bass line"? Is it the sound of the bass music that is heard throughout a song? I thank ... A: Kenneth! You've got it right; the term "bass line" refers to the low-pitched instrument (usually ...
Learning guitar	3/10/2008
Q: I'm new to the guitar and have been trying to learn and practice for a little less than a month. I ... A: Tony! I can suggest Steve Vai's 10-hour guitar workout for starters - this is a feat for even ...
Learning guitar	3/10/2008
Q: I'm new to the guitar and have been trying to learn and practice for a little less than a month. I ... A: Tony! I really wish I could say something sage at this point, like: "Ahh, grasshopper - do not ...
gibson les paul classic	3/10/2008
Q: I have a Gibson les paul classic guitar, serial # 030617. It has a cherry sunburst finish with ... A: Christopher: Please refer to the links at: http://www.gibson.com/en-us/Support/SerialNumberSearch/ ...
Guitar Wiring - 3-way lever?	3/9/2008
Q: I'm rewiring/repairing my old Silvertone Strat, but I'm having some trouble finding out how to wire ... A: Jerno! Sounds like you're ahead of the game with wiring. You're right, the 3-way lever switch is ...
Finding the name of a chord	3/8/2008
Q: Theres a chord i like to throw into songs but i don't know the name of it. Is there any site that ... A: Conor! Absolutely! The chord you're playing is a maj 7 chord, constructed of these intervals: 1, ...
p94T pickup	3/8/2008
Q: ok so im doing some mods to my les paul custom and im putting in a p94t which is the bridge ... A: Troy! Here's a couple of suggested models for you that I personally think would work better than ...
Killswitching an SG	3/6/2008
Q: I recently put a locking tremolo on my Epiphone sg with really no trouble. But before that I ... A: Evan: As of today (Sunday, March 9) I got a hook-up from Gibson Service Department's Benton ...
Fender stratocaster	3/4/2008
Q: I have just purchased a Fender Mexican 60's Reverse headstock stratocaster. Serial Number ... A: Daniel! Most often, the best info comes direct from the maker, in this case, Fender. Check this ...
Hondo Les Paul copy	3/3/2008
Q: ,you answered a question for me awhile back on the Squier Affinity & your answer was right ... A: Sammy: Good to hear from you again, glad I could help. This one might require a lil' digging. If ...
Buzzing	3/3/2008
Q: Okay, so I just bought a 12-year-old used electric guitar, sight unseen off eBay, probably not the ... A: Jacob: No bad on ordering the axe sight unseen; if you're pretty good with repairs, then you ...
p94T pickup	3/3/2008
Q: ok so im doing some mods to my les paul custom and im putting in a p94t which is the bridge ... A: Troy: There is another possibility here that you haven't considered - that your GC salesman was ...
Had a question about pinch harmonics.	3/1/2008
Q: Does the amp you're using have any effect on the sound you'll get with your pinch harmonics? When I ... A: David: For once, it's not an equipment issue, Bro - it's likely your technique. Sorry - but if you ...
Purchasing a Guitar	2/29/2008
Q: Hey, Once I learn how to play guitar well, I would like to form a Doors Tribute/Cover Band. I know ... A: Rachel: Don't forget that Epiphone makes good-quality Les Pauls for MUCH less than their Gibson ...
Which Guitar?	2/27/2008
Q: hey Ross, I am currently looking for guitars, and I had almost decided on a les paul studio worn ... A: IIan! The Godin is a great guitar, but I think you'd do better to go with the Gibson, for a few ...
playing korn on a 4string	2/26/2008
Q: hey ross...im a die hard korn fan and i have a 4string ESP F-104 bass right now..i was wondering if ... A: Evan! Yes, you can play Fieldy's tunes on a 4-string bass, tuning down - but a 5 string is much ...
Nuts	2/23/2008
Q: What are the benifits and disadvantages of rolling and locking nuts? I know how they're different, ... A: Jacob! Just to let you know, an analysis of pickups could (and does) take up a whole book! Please ...
Nuts	2/23/2008
Q: What are the benifits and disadvantages of rolling and locking nuts? I know how they're different, ... A: Jacob! Good question, man! Nuts are an often overlooked component of overall sound, feel, and ...
Inlays	2/23/2008
Q: Is it possible to change the fretboard inlays on a guitar? A: Nathan: Absolutely! This is a good way to upgrade or add some spice to an otherwise bland guitar. ...
Tuner.	2/22/2008
Q: I heard the Boss TU-2 can power multiple pedals. I've got the cord which can allow you to do that ... A: John: I've not tried to hook up the Line 6 to a TU-2; although it does seem logical that too many ...
pickup construction	2/16/2008
Q: When building a pickup, if I leave more (air) space than usual between the magnet and coil wire, ... A: Gerald! This "gap" between magnet at wire would, in fact, give you a different tone, albeit one you ...
Pickups and other beginner questions	2/13/2008
Q: Hey Ross, Got a few questions for you. First off, I was looking at various online guitar dealers ... A: Tony! A pickup selection is one of the most important upgrades you can make to your guitar. These ...
customizing my strat	2/9/2008
Q: I was wondering if it would be possible to customize my hss american special strat, to be able to ... A: Michael! This is a common occurrence, and not really a big deal at all. It's simply your basic ...
Electric guitar wiring	2/8/2008
Q: Ross, I just finished building my first electric guitar. It is pretty cool with just one problem. ... A: Rob: No problem, man! Well, ideally, your volume pot should totally remove any signal. With the ...
Getting rid of Slap Bass and Finger Picking Noise	2/8/2008
Q: I'm a very aggressive bass player. I like to slap, pop, and use my fingers on my bass strings quite ... A: Jawsh: It sounds to me like it's your amp setup. Especially if you're using your XLR out, you'll ...
Choosing New Guitar	2/7/2008
Q: Hey my name is Mike, I play in the blues style when I play alone, and in my band I play oi/punk ... A: Mike! Wow, this is a really tough question. You're asking me to choose between two of the most ...
places to get a Kill Switch installed	2/7/2008
Q: Where do I get a kill switch from radio shack installed? ANSWER: Eric: I'm not really sure where ... A: Eric! I'm not too familiar with that area; last time I was there was a few weeks ago, in Newark. I ...
Electric guitar wiring	2/7/2008
Q: Ross, I just finished building my first electric guitar. It is pretty cool with just one problem. ... A: Rob! Try this link to help you out: http://www.guitarelectronics.com/category/.wiringresources/ You ...
wiring combo	2/7/2008
Q: I'm wiring a semymor Duncan sh-1 to a 500k volume pot and that's it no tones or switch btw this is ... A: Troy! I'm puzzling over what could be the problem if you've got good parts. Is it possible that ...
Question regarding hooking my half-stack to PA	2/6/2008
Q: I recently got a new Half-stack from line 6, and I intend to use it live. I was wondering how would ... A: Israel: Mic'ing your cab is a great way to get your sound to P.A. You could use a signal splitter ...
pickup wiring	2/5/2008
Q: I have a Squier strat (Christmas present from high school)and instead of buying a new guitar (I ... A: Jared: Here's a site that will really help you with different wiring patterns - ...
wiring combo	2/4/2008
Q: I'm wiring a semymor Duncan sh-1 to a 500k volume pot and that's it no tones or switch btw this is ... A: Troy: I'm not sure what diagrams you've used (I see that you've tried a few), but see if there's ...
places to get a Kill Switch installed	2/2/2008
Q: Where do I get a kill switch from radio shack installed? A: Eric: I'm not really sure where you are located, so it is very difficult for me to give you a solid ...
customizing my strat	2/2/2008
Q: I was wondering if it would be possible to customize my hss american special strat, to be able to ... A: Mike: This is definitely something that could be done, although I'm not sure if you want to have it ...
Tuning Keys?	1/31/2008
Q: Hey, I recently bought an Epiphone Special II. It’s a pretty low end guitar, I know, but that’s ... A: Jacob! Good question. Don't think of your Epi as "low-end," think of it as "low-cost." In fact, ...
Guitar Amp	1/30/2008
Q: Where can I get fuses for my Fender Champ Amp at? A: Brandon: There are many places where you can purchase fuses; I would suggest, however, contacting ...
which is better?	1/29/2008
Q: i am wanting to play a electric guitar for about a month now.i have been doing information and want ... A: Kevin! I think that if you like harder styles of rock and metal, you'd be best suited by the HSS, ...
Fender Lead I,II & III Series guitars	1/29/2008
Q: I have been playing and collecting these for about 20 years. I have the opportunity to buy a ... A: Jon: I think you might get the most accurate info from the manufacturer. You can use this link to ...
Bass tuning head mod	1/25/2008
Q: I have a Yamaha long scale bass, and the stock tuners recently failed. I bought a set of Grovers to ... A: Don! Sorry this took so long to get to you! You can definitely widen the holes - a drill press, a ...
Bad match between guitar and amp?	1/23/2008
Q: I have a Fender Strat with Seymour Duncan 'Quarterpounder' pickups. I've always been able to get a ... A: Beth! It is not at all uncommon for there to be a bad mix between amp and guitar. It actually ...
amp	1/21/2008
Q: I'm thinking about getting a Fender hot rod deville, which is sixty watts. Would this amount of ... A: John! The Fender Hot Rod is a great little amplifier, and should have more than enough power for a ...
Action problems	1/20/2008
Q: I recently purchased a Jackson JS30RR Rhoads JS Series Electric Guitar. At first it played great but ... A: Bob! No problem. The Jackson JS30 has a relatively thin, flat neck for fast runs, and the EXL ...
guitar pedals	1/19/2008
Q: First off I would like to thank you for answering my previous questions. I have looked through your ... A: Mark - don't worry at all, man, I'm here for YOU guys! No need to apologize whatsoever (I'm ...
Jackson Kelly	1/17/2008
Q: I have a little question but I failed to find the answer anywhere here's the guitar I want Black ... A: You can, in fact, get a KE4 and have it re-wired and modified, but I think you might find that the ...
My next guitar	1/16/2008
Q: Greetings, Ross - my cyber guitar mentor, I am not sure if you still remember me, but you helped me ... A: Glad you're doing well. You already know I'm an Ibanez freak, so I'll lay off of that suggestion ...
Jackson Kelly	1/16/2008
Q: I have a little question but I failed to find the answer anywhere here's the guitar I want Black ... A: Necro: I'm a little confused by the master "tune" condition, is it possible you mean master "tone?" ...
Guitar style	1/15/2008
Q: What I need if I want play Mötley Crùe's songs right?? of course a lot gain, but what else? I have a ... A: Jarskaw: You're on the right track with the Strat and the Marshall; Mick uses Stratocasters a lot. ...
Electric Guitars	1/15/2008
Q: Hi, I'm Nick. I'm in fourth grade and I am doing a project on electric guitars. I have already ... A: Nick! Thanks for including me in your project! First off, good luck on your grade. Now, Gibson ...
Ibanez tube screamers	1/14/2008
Q: I'm thinking of buying an Ibanez tube screamer but am unusure as to which one is the best the ts9 or ... A: Thomas! The Boss DS-1 is one of my favorite all-time pedals, and so is the Tube Screamer. Well, ...
soldering	1/12/2008
Q: Whats up Ross? Im trying to solder ground wire to trem claw on my STRATOCASTER and its not taking.Do ... A: Mark: I doubt very much that it's the type of solder you're using, although that can be an issue. ...
ibanez action	1/10/2008
Q: Ive got an 1989 ibanez rg570 and recently took it to the shop to see if I could get the action ... A: Sure thing, Mike! I think one of the best ones out there is the Guitar Player Repair Guide by Dan ...
ibanez action	1/10/2008
Q: Ive got an 1989 ibanez rg570 and recently took it to the shop to see if I could get the action ... A: Mike: I'm not sure why they told you that; my Ibanez guitar that's sitting right next to me right ...
affordable solid body electric	1/4/2008
Q: Happy New Year. I have taken a 7 year break from playing (played for 20 years... rock / jazz / ... A: Like I said, Bro; Carvin KILLS! I told you so! They build the dreamiest damn guitars...AND they do ...
on/off/on killswitch	1/4/2008
Q: I know you've been asked this before a few times. I was reading the post about a button kill switch ... A: Jonathan: I forgot to add another possibility - adding a mini-toggle (3 way) to your setup so that ...
Epiphone Les Paul Junior	1/3/2008
Q: I was wondering what you thought of the $99 Epiphone Les Paul Junior guitar? I'm into punk rock ... A: again, Tony! I'm glad I was able to help out. Anyway, the "starter kit" amps and cables usually ...
Epiphone Les Paul Junior	1/3/2008
Q: I was wondering what you thought of the $99 Epiphone Les Paul Junior guitar? I'm into punk rock ... A: Tony: I actually like the LP Junior a lot. It's simple, easy to play, works like magic, and is a ...
building a guitar	1/3/2008
Q: im building a strat I want to know if I can put a 2007 9.5 radius neck on a 68 body? A: Mark! The short answer is, yes. You can put any radius on any body you want: provided, however, ...
affordable solid body electric	1/2/2008
Q: Happy New Year. I have taken a 7 year break from playing (played for 20 years... rock / jazz / ... A: Right on, Gary. Here's the follow-ups: 1. I'm really a fan of almost any of the RG models, ...
guitar wiring	1/2/2008
Q: I have an older Dean guitar.It was taken apart about 12 years ago and I forgot how to wire it.It has ... A: Gary! Here's a link that I think might be very helpful to you; it provides diagrams and detailed ...
Guitar modification	1/2/2008
Q: I recently came into some money and decided to rebuilt some parts of my guitar. I own a Kaman ... A: Gee! You came to the right place, Man! I've got you covered. First off, lemme say that the ...
affordable solid body electric	1/2/2008
Q: Happy New Year. I have taken a 7 year break from playing (played for 20 years... rock / jazz / ... A: Gary! Please let me state, in advance, that this is entirely an opinion answer; meaning that there ...
Is this a decent guitar?	1/1/2008
Q: I'm a musician who plays a few instruments and is interested in taking up guitar, so I'm trying to ... A: Mitchell: I do have to say, first and foremost, that I'm not familiar (at all) with that brand. ...
Seymour Duncan Pickup combinations	12/31/2007
Q: Would the following combination be compatible in my mexican strat..? SH-5 Custom in bridge, with ... A: Phil! Yes, the SD combination you desire is compatible with the Strat. In fact, almost ANY combo ...
Want to put a Floyd Rose on a strat	12/29/2007
Q: Hey Ross, I have a brand new Fender American HSS fat strat(ash body)that I just bought. I want to ... A: Justin: Happy Holidays! First off, I'm a well-known fan of the Floyd Rose system and its variants, ...
Seymour Duncan Blackouts, or EMG's?	12/29/2007
Q: Hey, I would like to what would be the better pickup, the Duncan Blackouts, or a set of good EMG's?, ... A: Cole: Happy Holidays! First off, please be aware that this is an OPINION answer; only that, and ...
Which bass for new band?	12/23/2007
Q: My bands name is Anomind, I am the bass player and you can hear 4 of our newly recorded ... A: Anomind! You could always get the five string, and tune your bass as such: B E A D G (standard ...
installing a floyd rose on a les paul	12/19/2007
Q: could you plaese tell me whether this is possible or not, how to do it and if theres any risk of ... A: Eric! It's funny you should ask that, because another questioner just asked a very similar question ...
Whammy Bars - The Les Paul Question	12/14/2007
Q: I have a Tokai Les Paul, and I've read about the Stretsbar or the Bigsby as being a way to add a ... A: Sam: You're most welcome. Let's tackle these questions in order, shall we? First, the FR systems ...
Whammy Bars - The Les Paul Question	12/13/2007
Q: I have a Tokai Les Paul, and I've read about the Stretsbar or the Bigsby as being a way to add a ... A: Sam! One of my favorite topics, the whammy. As to whether installing one will change the sound, ...
Gibson les paul goddess	12/12/2007
Q: i have been looking at the gibson les paul goddess for about a month now. I first found it on ... A: Brandon! I'm SOOO glad you asked this question! First off, let me say that the LP Goddess is a ...
humbucker picking up harmonics	12/10/2007
Q: Hey Ross, Ive recently bought and old Ibanez Rg570 from 1987, and have been playing alot of paul ... A: Mike: This is a quirky problem, no doubt. I love the old RG's though, they just feel different ...
Truss rod for electric guitar	12/10/2007
Q: Russ, I am building my first electric guitar and I have purchase a standard double expanding truss ... A: Rob: Here is a link to help you with your Floyd Rose - http://www.floydrose.com/ You can get all ...
starting a band	12/9/2007
Q: hey man my buddies and I are trying to start a band but every band I've been in doesn't work. I play ... A: James: If I knew the total answer to this question, I'd be a millionaire! Unfortunately, the age ...
MIJ lawsuit era guitars	12/7/2007
Q: I’ve recently been doing some research on lawsuit era MIJ guitars (Burny, Greco, Tokai, etc) and now ... A: Rick: Good research! You're right on track, especially with it being way more possible to get ...
Kill Switch Troubleshooting for Strat	12/6/2007
Q: I see that you've addressed the kill switch question several times. In your answer at ... A: Bryan! Thanks for being so understanding and for your follow-up note - I appreciate that. Now, ...
guitar pickup wiring	12/4/2007
Q: am an old guitarist but new to wiring and other electronic details. could you please explain this ... A: Tellef: Here's a link that will probably answer the series/parallel question better than I can: ...
Kill Switch Troubleshooting for Strat	12/2/2007
Q: I see that you've addressed the kill switch question several times. In your answer at ... A: Bryan: I am truly apologetic for it taking so long to answer you; if you noticed my last couple of ...
need help	11/28/2007
Q: which is in singapore.can u pls advise on which fender guitar should i get?here is a list of the ... A: Daniel: I have browsed a bit, but I'm not sure what your best link is for Singapore. I found ...
Effects pedal setup	11/27/2007
Q: Greetings, and thanks in advance for an answer. I have been playing rhythm and lead for about 10 ... A: Larry (in a band with Steven?): Please look through my archived answers, as I've answered this at ...
Yamaha guitar	11/23/2007
Q: I have a Yamaha AE-1500 that Ipurchased while in Japan. I've been told that it was made in Japan ... A: Barry: As I'm not an appraiser, I typically refer value questions to one of two places: - The Blue ...
online guitar lessons	11/22/2007
Q: do you have any tips on how to improve pinched harmonics? ive been trying for ages but still cant ... A: As to the lessons, there are numerous places online; D'Addario strings for a while was giving out ...
Teaching Myself	11/16/2007
Q: I am waiting until the end of the year to get my guitar and everything for it. After that I'll be ... A: Tyler: First off, having a teacher can be good, but being self-taught just has a certain magic to ...
Truss rod for electric guitar	11/14/2007
Q: Russ, I am building my first electric guitar and I have purchase a standard double expanding truss ... A: Rob! Kudos on building your guitar, let me know how it turns out when you finish! Now, as to the ...
Wher to buy Orange Amp in Barcelona?	11/11/2007
Q: came across this forum while looking for guitar shops in Barcelona. Do you know where i can find ... A: Riz! According to Orange Amps' official website, they have a dealership in Madrid, you can find ...
Electric guitar pickup placement	11/9/2007
Q: I am in the process of designing and building my first electric guitar. 25-1/2" scale length, 24 ... A: Rob: Glad I could help! Well, let's jump into part 2 of the answer.... Without going all ...
Electric guitar pickup placement	11/9/2007
Q: I am in the process of designing and building my first electric guitar. 25-1/2" scale length, 24 ... A: Rob! Pickup placement is dependent upon lots of variables (shape, type of wood, pickup magnet type, ...
Bass Value	10/18/2007
Q: I have a Squier Affinity Jazz Bass 5 string that I no longer play and was wondering what it would ... A: Ryan! Well, Squier, while some of them are actually pretty good instruments, don't really have a ...
Buying a bass	10/17/2007
Q: I am a songwriter and my main instrument is guitar. But as I do record the songs with arrangements, ... A: Antoine: Yep, there are quite a few that you could get to replace the crappy one. Here's a few, ...
Kay Guitar	10/13/2007
Q: I bought an old Kay guitar several years ago. The number stamped on the inside is L 3664. I am ... A: Anita! Here's a link provided by Kay guitars that might help you quite a bit; hopefully, you can ...
bass amp speakers	10/13/2007
Q: I want to try and build a bass cabinet out of car sub woofers, and get a head for it. I'm not sure ... A: Cool! (And thanks for your kind review!) Here is a link that I think might help you a ton: ...
The Right Amp	10/12/2007
Q: I've got $400 for a new amp. What would you recommend? My style follows close to that of All That ... A: Andrew: The B.C. is pronounced like the dog; as "bitch" commonly. As to the Crate, their ...
buying guitars	10/6/2007
Q: ive been playing the electric guitar for 2 years now and want to buy a new one, i would like a ... A: Jess! Well, if you've read any of my answers, you know I'm an Ibanez freak! So, of course, that ...
string buzz	10/3/2007
Q: i have an old Yamaha SE603 electric guitar and the problem i have is this!:on the first 5 frets the ... A: Panos: Sounds like you are a candidate for a complete setup! If you've never done it yourself, ...
rebuilding a squier strat	10/2/2007
Q: hey i was wondering if you could put an american strat neck on a squier. A: Jack: It's interesting you should ask this; another questioner had a very similar issue today as ...
Fender Strat neck swap	10/1/2007
Q: I have a '57 re-issue Strat. After some time I became unhappy with the comfort of the neck and ... A: Dwayne: The most critical part of your neck refit is whether or not the neck sits flush in the ...
string noise	9/30/2007
Q: I have a les paul studio plus, which I play through a fender hot rod tube amp. I get alot of ... A: John: It really could be a number of things. It will require a little more troubleshooting to find ...
Strings	9/29/2007
Q: I keep on breaking the high e string on my Fender Stratocaster. What brands make strong strings for ... A: Angus: It's most likely not your string strength. First off, the technology involved in making ...
Peavey	9/28/2007
Q: Some one told me that if I'm getting the peavey head to ensure that its the same ohmss as my ... A: Thomas: No prob, Man! (And thanks for your kind ratings, I appreciate that!) First off, check ...
Misc	9/27/2007
Q: "Hi I'm thinking about buying a peavey valveking head. I currently use a Marshall AVT 150.Is buying ... A: Thomas! Gotta answer this one in parts: First, there are those players who simply do not feel ...
Peavey Valve King	9/26/2007
Q: I've a couple of questions to run past you 1) I currently use a marshall (think its a half stack) ... A: Tommy: I know you've asked some of these, but I'm noticing that there are a couple different ...
bass amp humming	9/20/2007
Q: I have a bass cab with 2 Altec Lansing 15" speakers and a Hartkee 3500 head. When I turn the head on ... A: Ryan: This alone could be the problem! It's possible that something wasn't done properly. It ...
gibson	9/13/2007
Q: How can I find out the value of a 1962 Gibson ES-335? A: Clay: I have several questions pertaining to guitar value this week, so here are places for you all ...
Worth fixing my epiphone? Value of Guitar.	9/5/2007
Q: I have a Gibson epiphone les paul that looks like the epi -les paul 100 that is popular today. I ... A: Jessica: PLEASE don't sell your axe! It's not the most expensive collector's item, but it does ...
Speaker impedance	9/3/2007
Q: I have acquired an old fender speaker cabinet with a single Celestion G12 inside. The problem is ... A: Andy: No problem-o my man! For the question about your speakers, please read the article at the ...
Wanting to pick up metal guitar...	9/1/2007
Q: Hey man, I was seriously considering taking up guitar, to learn how to play metal-style. My ... A: Hey, Sgt Griever: Not so long ago, I was deployed myself (two trips to the sandbox in the USMC) - ...
practice	8/30/2007
Q: i have been playing guitar for about 3 months now and am thinking of getting a guitar teacher, for ... A: Ryan: You're totally capable of teaching yourself, provided you put in LOTS of work! The first tip ...
Framus acoustic guitar	8/28/2007
Q: I have a framus acoustic guitar model 70d s/n 025750. I know the guitar is at least 17 years old ... A: Ashley: You can have your guitar professionally appraised by Gruhn's guitars at: ...
Amp/speaker choices	8/28/2007
Q: Have picked up playing bass again after many years and am now looking at amp set ups etc. on E bay. ... A: Tim: Here goes, Brotha! Try this link, as it gives the most plain-English version of an ...
Amp/speaker choices	8/28/2007
Q: Have picked up playing bass again after many years and am now looking at amp set ups etc. on E bay. ... A: Tim! No problem. Without getting all scientific and techno-garbled, here is a good rule of thumb: ...
Marshall AVT150 footswitch	8/28/2007
Q: I recently had the footswitch for my AVT150 stolen, and rather than spending 200 odd dollars on a ... A: Sam! I'm not too familiar with how this would go, but I can point you to a great site with lots of ...
epiphone sheraton1	8/26/2007
Q: I bought a old epi sheraton thats in immaculate condition, hardly even played. However I have saw ... A: Brian: You can have your guitar appraised professionally by Gruhn's Guitars at: ...
Pick ups	8/25/2007
Q: Can you mount a PAF pro dimarzio in a fender/squire strat please? thanks Matt A: Matt: Of course, the PAF Pro can be mounted in the Fender/Squire Strat, as well as all the other ...
Amplifiers	8/23/2007
Q: Recently I have been looking into buying a new amp, but Im not completely sure on what I should buy. ... A: Brandon: check out these links, as I think these are in the range of good product for you: ...
Amplifiers	8/22/2007
Q: Recently I have been looking into buying a new amp, but Im not completely sure on what I should buy. ... A: Brandon: You came to the right place! I've been experimenting with different amp combinations and ...
Les Paul Pickups	8/21/2007
Q: I have a 2004 Epiphone Les Paul Custom Plus. I love how it sounds, but I'd like to get new pickups ... A: Michael: Under normal circumstances, with a LP player I'd recommend the Seymour Duncan JB (bridge) ...
question	8/21/2007
Q: i have a jackson sharvel and a was wondering what it is worth it was made around 1988 it says fort ... A: BooBoo: The Jackson/Charvel guitars usually command a price that is substantially higher than other ...
URGENT!!!	8/21/2007
Q: okay, okay, dude...i went by a store today, and theres a guy with what he claims to be a gibson les ... A: Sasan: Here is a link that will give you all sorts of great info on Gibson guitars, their serial ...
Stratocaster Guitar	8/20/2007
Q: I have a Fender Squier Startocaster made in Korea 1980's i think, serial number M2834605. Colour: ... A: Michael: Please check one (or both) of these places for an accurate value: http://www.gruhn.com/ ...
pickup wiring	8/17/2007
Q: I AM REBUILDING AN OLD GUITAR ( STRAT TYPE )AND I WONDER IF YOU CAN HELP ME WITH THE FOLLOWING. I ... A: Ken! Try starting with these links: http://www.stewmac.com/wiring101/easy_modifications.html ...
Ibanez Floyd change	8/17/2007
Q: I tried asking this on ibanez forum, but got little help ... A: Dario: Allright, Brotha! Well, the Schaller WILL fit; but you may want to actually test one out ...
Ibanez Floyd change	8/17/2007
Q: I tried asking this on ibanez forum, but got little help ... A: Dario! No prob, man. You're welcome in advance. I will say, though, that I personally feel the ...
i have a floyd rose designed pickup!!!!!!!	8/15/2007
Q: I have a floyd rose designed pickup on my LTD, ESP guitar. It has bee taken apart to be cleaned and ... A: Brady: I'm not very familiar with that saddle numbering, either, but - no worries, 'cuz I can set ...
fret buzz	8/14/2007
Q: my guitar is buzzing on the 13 fret of the e string any idea how i can fix it? ANSWER: Mark: First ... A: Mark: You're most welcome! Glad to help. You might want to print the question/answer as a cheat ...
fret buzz	8/12/2007
Q: my guitar is buzzing on the 13 fret of the e string any idea how i can fix it? ANSWER: Mark: First ... A: Good to go, Mark! Well, what we need to do now is start a troubleshooting process to narrow down ...
Guitar Amps and Effects	8/9/2007
Q: As I metioned earlier Ihave a Marshall AVT 150 head and speaker cabinet. In your opinion would it be ... A: Thomas: You're welcome! Now, as to the ampyou really have to let your ears guide you. As much as ...
standard strat made into EC strat	8/9/2007
Q: i want to take a standard stratocaster and make it into a EC Signature Strat. Is this possible to ... A: Sean: Yes, it is possible to convert your Standard Strat to an EC; however, there has been more ...
picking hand	8/8/2007
Q: i'm self taught so i dont know much! although iv been playing electric guitar for about 6 months ... A: Nothing wrong at all with being self-taught; I am too (as were some of the best in history). Your ...
Pinch Harmonics	8/8/2007
Q: Im finding it hard to do pinch harmonics on the a and d strings how can I improve this ? I use a ... A: Thomas! No problem, glad I could help. You're most welcome. Now, I really like the Peavey Valve ...
new player	8/8/2007
Q: I just love to play music and I think I am wanting to start on elec. guitar. I have had musical ... A: I'm a die-hard Ibanez fan! If you look through all my archived answers, you'll notice it's pretty ...
Proficiency	8/7/2007
Q: I've taken lessons for 1 1/2 years now. Prior to that I spent a lot of time trying to figure the ... A: Jim: Thanks a million for your good reviews! Just another note - you couldn't be more right about ...
Pinch Harmonics	8/7/2007
Q: Im finding it hard to do pinch harmonics on the a and d strings how can I improve this ? I use a ... A: Thomas: It's more a function of your technique and your fingers than the picks you use, although ...
stompbox switcher controller	8/5/2007
Q: I have around ten different pedals and I'm looking for a way to turn different pedals on in ... A: Dan! This is a pretty high-level question. It seems as though you've a good grip on the basics of ...
'93 Les Paul, what kind of pickups should i install?	8/4/2007
Q: I picked up a '93 Les Paul Standard and it shreds but, I'm not entirely satisfied with the pickups ... A: Lucas: Good deal, I know where you're coming from. If you're used to SD pickups, I'm a big fan of ...
fender p bass body	8/2/2007
Q: .i have a neighbor trying to sell me what he says is a late 70's p bass..i have played a long time ... A: Pete! It's pretty well known that "back in the day" Fender never wasted much of anything; if a ...
getting a guitar and the things i need for it	7/23/2007
Q: I'm 14 and I am getting a guitar for Christmas. I've already decided on getting an Epiphone Les Paul ... A: Tyler! I'm not sure how much detail you'll need me to go into, but here's a list that should get ...
Highway 1 strat pickguard	7/19/2007
Q: I want to replace the pickguard on my 06 fender highway 1 Stratocaster but I cant seem to find any ... A: Chris! I'm pretty sure the standard Stratocaster pickguard will fit; all sorts of companies make ...
Matching my guitar with a versatile amp	7/15/2007
Q: I recently bought a used Gibson Les Paul Studio. I have been playing acoustic guitar for 4 years and ... A: Earl! The LP Studio is a great guitar and really versatile. Here's a list of what I consider to be ...
Amplifier problem	7/13/2007
Q: I have recently acquired a Carlsbro 300 watt stingray bass head which is feeding into a peavey black ... A: Hen! First, let me say that I'm not too familiar with the Carlsbro line; I a know a little about ...
floyd rose	7/12/2007
Q: im aswell upgrading my strat with a floyd rose, i wonder is it save (for the guitar) to change to a ... A: Carlos! I'm a big fan of the Floyd Rose systems; use 'em myself. Affixing a FR to a Stratocaster ...
Recommended Push button killswitch	7/9/2007
Q: I am on the search for a quality push button killswitch to install into my strat. I have tried the ... A: Adam: Good to go, here's a link with some good quality switches that might fit what you need: ...
1986 Japanese-made Fender P-Bass	7/6/2007
Q: I play bass with my fingers. My P-Bass often makes a loud crunching/clicking noise when I play a ... A: John! Yes, there is a really easy solution to this problem, and it won't require you raising your ...
Recommended Push button killswitch	7/5/2007
Q: I am on the search for a quality push button killswitch to install into my strat. I have tried the ... A: Adam: I'm getting a lot more questions about killswitches these days. I'm going to paste a copy of ...
Amplifier for home use.	7/3/2007
Q: First off I'm a bit of a gear head and I LOVE all the Stuff that goes along with the guitar. But I ... A: Laura: A lot of players have this problem; it seems that sometimes having so many options can ...
That tone I am trying to get	7/1/2007
Q: Ross, Again I need your expertise and advice. Last November you very kindly helped me solve my ... A: Hey, Yuzo! You're too kind. Now, as to the pitch shifting; I doubt you'd find the pitch ...
weird notes	6/27/2007
Q: I have a Gibson Les Paul Junior with a p-90 dogear pickup. I use a 15watt Marshall MG15CDR. When im ... A: Pratik: It actually could be a host of things; your amp, in fact, could be a culprit; but so could ...
That tone I am trying to get	6/25/2007
Q: Ross, Again I need your expertise and advice. Last November you very kindly helped me solve my ... A: Yuzo! I remember you well - nice to hear from you again! I, too, absolutely LOVE the tone that ...
sheraton II	6/13/2007
Q: Hey man, I have an Epi Sheraton II and the wiring is shot. To clarify the neck pickup works fine but ... A: Jay: No! It is, in fact, quite a bit harder than with a normal, solidbody electric, but not nearly ...
Amp choice	6/8/2007
Q: You gave a very helpful answer to somebody's daughter's search for a guitar. I like the idea of the ... A: Patrice! Glad you were helped by the other answers. I have recently become a believer in Line 6 ...
killswitch wiring diagram	6/8/2007
Q: i have recently learned of the killswitch buckethead uses on there songs and wanted to add one to ... A: Andrew: A killswitch, when wired properly, will work on any electric guitar, be it single-coil or ...
Painting	6/7/2007
Q: I want to paint a racing strip on an SG shaped guitar - Who can I have custom paint the sucker? - ... A: Greg: Folks are usually surprised when they go to get a guitar painted by a pro when they find out ...
Ibanez RG370 Wiring	6/2/2007
Q: I want to take the bridge humbucket out of the tone circuit on my RG370 but I need a wiring diagram. ... A: Gotcha. All you have to do is connect the hot leads from your bridge pu to the hot leads on your ...
Ibanez RG370 Wiring	6/1/2007
Q: I want to take the bridge humbucket out of the tone circuit on my RG370 but I need a wiring diagram. ... A: How did you know I'm an Ibanez man?! (I've got one of my babies in pieces right now, doing a ...
1979 Bass Head Repair	5/28/2007
Q: I own a classic century 200 Peavey Bass head, that wont turn up past 2 before clipping out been told ... A: Buck! I used to have an old Peavey all-tube head (still do, actually - stored somewhere or another) ...
Techno sounds with guitar?	5/26/2007
Q: I have played guitar for about a year; my favourite genre is black metal, however, the guys of my ... A: Mike! Yup, you got the right idea, Bro. (Look back a couple weeks or so in my archived answers; ...
Neck Pickup Cuts Out Intermittently	5/24/2007
Q: I have an Epiphone DOT that the Neck /Rhythm Pickup cuts out intermittently. I've had the switch ... A: Nathan: I'm not sure I understand what you mean by reaching in and "getting it back." If it were a ...
string problem	5/21/2007
Q: i playing my strat and the high e string broke when i touched the whammy bar. I didn't expect it to, ... A: Roshan: No prob! No, this isn't a problem with your bar or your axe, it's just something that ...
Need help buying first guitar	5/16/2007
Q: I hope to buy an electric guitar that's not too expensive due to some money issues and of pretty ... A: Mitch! Happy to help. I've been asked the "which guitar..." question a bunch o' times, I believe ...
Teisco Del Ray Guitar EP-8T	5/11/2007
Q: I found a Teisco Del Ray Guitar EP-8T guitar on Ebay. It's identical to my very first guitar my ... A: Mark! I just got your email, AllExperts had to send me a link. Sorry this has taken so long. My ...
Electric Guitar Beginner	5/10/2007
Q: I am a Grade 8 pianist and singer and have recently decided that I want to learn the electric ... A: Lucy! As to which guitars I think would be good for you, please look in my archived answers here at ...
mexican stratocaster	5/2/2007
Q: i have a quick question regarding a 2000 model Mexican stracocaster. My whammy bar broke off inside ... A: Garrett: Yes, you can drill it! There are special extractor bits you can buy (they're not nearly ...
Trying to find a Marshall Valvestate footswitch	5/2/2007
Q: I own a Marshall Valvestate VS265 amp and the footswitch is broken. It has three seperate channels, ... A: Ryan: The first place that comes to mind is Guitar Center, but you could do an online search to ...
high end electric guitar markets	5/1/2007
Q: Is it possible to get a world wide ranking of sales of high end (over $2000 US) electric guitars ... A: I thought a bit about your follow up some time after answering that one. Maybe I'm making too much ...
b.c. rich conversion	4/30/2007
Q: ross, i have an old ibanez tr that i installed b.c.rich active pickups wiring and pots in. the b.c. ... A: Danny: Try searching on this site: www.bartolini.net Bartolini pickups sound great and have a nice ...
Fender Jazz Bass Hum	4/29/2007
Q: I was hoping you could answer a question for me. I have a Japanese made Fender Jazz which I have ... A: Brian: Ah, the Fender hum. What you are experiencing is a pretty common problem. Yes, a ...
high end electric guitar markets	4/25/2007
Q: Is it possible to get a world wide ranking of sales of high end (over $2000 US) electric guitars ... A: Peter: Yes, Brother, ANYTHING is possible! I'll tell you, though, it's not something I've ever ...
Which one first?	4/24/2007
Q: I have been playing guitar for a good two years, and i am wondering if you can give me sum ... A: Ryan: I would suggest getting a designated preamp, to go between your guitar and the PA. Some will ...
Alternate guitar tunings	4/20/2007
Q: I have recently began an interest in alternate tunings to add another dimension to my guitar ... A: Bill: I wouldn't think that if you're not tuning WAY high, or using unusually heavy string gauges, ...
frets	4/19/2007
Q: Hey i am doing a research report on guitars and i was wondering how many frets are there on one ... A: Shaun! This is sort of a trick question; there is no set limit or standard on how many frets a ...
kay guitar	4/14/2007
Q: i found a guitar in a shop nearby this guys has a bunch of older gutiar mostof them junk but one ... A: Sorry it's been a couple days; I didn't get your question right away. As far as appraisals, that's ...
killswitch wiring diagram	4/10/2007
Q: I'm wondering if you have any sort of wiring diagram that includes a killswitch in it? I don't have ... A: Michael: I sent you this answer a couple days back, but I'm assuming since it just reappeared in my ...
Bass Guitars	4/9/2007
Q: I'm planning on buying an electric bass guitar in the early summer but I have very little ... A: Jordan! Don't worry about how much experience you have; we all have to start somewhere, right? And ...
two guitars i need info on	4/6/2007
Q: ok here's the deal i have two guitars that i don't know what they are worth or what their history ... A: No prob, Arturo! You can contact Fender/Squire at: http://www.squierguitars.com/support.php#contact ...
epiphone guitar	4/5/2007
Q: we have a ephiphone guitar which is greater than 30 years old. cherry red in color.. excellent ... A: I'd normally suggest this to anyone asking a value question, but for you especially, since the ...
Killswitch on an SG	4/4/2007
Q: I have an Epiphone SG guitar and I'm interested in wiring a killswitch to it. After extensive ... A: It's not necessarily unfortunate that your guitar is an SG; in fact, they're most often just like ...
two guitars i need info on	4/3/2007
Q: ok here's the deal i have two guitars that i don't know what they are worth or what their history ... A: Hey Bro, not to blow you off, but this is kindof a homework question. I'd advise you to contact the ...
epiphone custom les paul	4/2/2007
Q: Black Epiphone Les Paul Custom guitar with Gold hardware and F-holes can you tell me how much its ... A: Hayley: You have what I'd call a really nice instrument; unfortunately, I don't specialize in ...
My Strat/Floyd Rose tremolo	4/2/2007
Q: I just bought a floyd rose tremolo with a locking nut for my guitar. I was wondering if the tremolo ... A: John: Well, first off lemme say I simply love the Floyd System (I actually consider the Ibanez Edge ...
Marshal AVT150	3/31/2007
Q: I recently bought a marshall AVT150 and today I noticed it was starting to smell a little like burnt ... A: Bennett: IMMEDIATELY take your amp to an authorized repair service. It sounds like you may have a ...
Killswitch Wiring	3/26/2007
Q: i have a strat like model guitar that i recently routed the right horn so i could fit a killswitch i ... A: Please don't think I've forgotten you. I've been trying to answer a lot of folks' questions and ...
killswitch wiring diagram	3/25/2007
Q: I'm wondering if you have any sort of wiring diagram that includes a killswitch in it? I don't have ... A: Please don't think I've forgotten you. I've been trying to answer a lot of folks' questions and ...
Practice Amps	3/22/2007
Q: I am a young guitar player from Barcelona (spain) I own an epiphone sheratone II and now, I want to ... A: Of the three amps you mentioned, I'd say look most heavily toward the Orange or the Roland. There ...
please please help	3/22/2007
Q: I need your help. In this busy, post-Internet society in which we live, it seems that I do ... A: Hey, man, sorry I almost forgot! Thanks for giving me your phone earlier: I can't give you mine ...
please please help	3/21/2007
Q: I need your help. In this busy, post-Internet society in which we live, it seems that I do ... A: First off, Mike, you're definitely not crazy. I do, however, think it is detrimental to limit ...
Wiring for a DNKY knock off.	3/20/2007
Q: I purchased a Phantom guitar years back that is a Jackson Knock off. Not made by Phantom either! ... A: No prob, other Ross! Check out Seymour Duncan's website; you'll find wiring schemes for just the ...
Bass Tunings	3/19/2007
Q: I was wondering just how much my bass strings can handle. I enjoy playing around with alternate ... A: Trevor: Assuming that you're willing to change string gauges to match the type of tuning you're ...
Violin Bow	3/13/2007
Q: How do get sound out of your guitar when using a violin bow A: The violin bow works essentially the same way as when you play naturally (assuming you're using an ...
arirang les paul copy	3/10/2007
Q: I recently bought this supposed japan built les paul 1981 vintage. Guitar blue book says this is a ... A: I'd love to be able to say that I know all about this model; in fact, however, I am not too familiar ...
Three Way Gibson Toggle	3/9/2007
Q: Hey Ross, I had a custom body made with a rear routed cavity and three holes drilled through to the ... A: There are a couple of things you can do here that will work. What is most likely the simplest ...
Wiring	3/8/2007
Q: The text above is a follow-up to ... -----Question----- Hi Ross, Many thanks for your very ... A: No problem! And, you're definitely NOT an idiot! Wiring schematics get really confusing, ...
pickups	3/7/2007
Q: Many thanks for your very informative reply to my question, but I'm sorry to say, I've already been ... A: You're welcome, Tam, and any time! I hope this answer has helped you out. If you need anything ...
pickups	3/6/2007
Q: Many thanks for your very informative reply to my question, but I'm sorry to say, I've already been ... A: An uncovered, bare wire is your ground wire. It goes directly to the volume pot backing/grounding ...
pickups	3/5/2007
Q: I currently have a Yamaha Pacifica 112 that has got a humbucker fitted at the bridge and has one vol ... A: Tam! Thanks for your question (sorry it's taken so long! I've been FLOODED with e-mails, gig ...
Instrument Guitar Songs	3/4/2007
Q: well, every time i turn up a radio i put it on a channel that plays some soft music [i dunno if its ... A: (There's really no need to say "expert Ross", man, it sounds so darn FORMAL! I'm just a regular guy ...
bodyguitar	3/3/2007
Q: I have a 2003 bc rich jr v body art collection guitar and I broke a piece of the v off and I wanted ... A: No problem-o, man! There are a few different things you can use that will work; a water-based wood ...
PA purchase and setup questions	3/2/2007
Q: Right now I'm playing in a band that seems to be in a growing state of meglomania (I'm considering ... A: I know exactly what you mean, Bro! Unfortunately, in bands, like in marriage, sometimes it becomes ...
humbucker pick-ups	2/26/2007
Q: I purchased a used Epiphone EBO humbucker pick-up to retro-fit onto a Ventura narrow-neck, ... A: It sounds like your pickup might benefit from a technique called "potting." Epiphone pickups are ...
Bass Guitar Quality	2/24/2007
Q: I am wanting to buy a Bass Guitar. I have two that I am interested in. The not so easy to find ... A: Daryl! Either of these will give you a good quality bass; I myself would lean initially a bit more ...
woods used in guitar making	2/20/2007
Q: I am fourteen and interested in making my own guitar body. Is eastern red cedar a good type of wood ... A: It's awesome that you're thinking of making your own stuff; and way cool that your Dad is on hand to ...
Pickups vs. Guitar	2/17/2007
Q: I have a $600 Lite Ash Strat. I was wondering, if I were to put in Fenders Custom Shops best ... A: ): A pickup can only really magnify the sound that is already there; so if a guitar sounds crappy ...
guitar electronics	2/17/2007
Q: If this helps anyone else seymour duncan has wiring schematics for strats,les pauls,tele. When I ... A: Stevie: I have a binder that I use for "cheat sheets" when I work on guitars for folks...I have a ...
Singlecoil pickup guitars	2/7/2007
Q: I'm looking for a guitar with singlecoil pickups or P90 pickups. I know about the usual Strats and ... A: Tom! Sorry this has taken so long to get to you, but I'm coming off a couple weeks of being ...
pick-ups	2/6/2007
Q: I have had my Mexican Fender Jazz bass for almost 7 years now. I have made no modifications to it at ... A: I'm about to let you in on an industry-secret that shouldn't be! It's not at all complicated or ...
guitar electronics	2/5/2007
Q: Guitar electronics for strats what are the best name brands.They say that mexican made strats dont ... A: Stevie: Hey, Bro! I'm back in action and ready to roll w/ your questions and probs!! Well, saying ...
locate a trem	1/30/2007
Q: Hey Ross, I want to build a guitar but ... I need some info.. How do I know where to locate the ... A: Daniel! I've been quite ill this week and had a couple visits to the doctor; due to this I haven't ...
guitar electronics	1/29/2007
Q: What are the best electronics to hot rod your guitar with. (example) pots,five way switches. All for ... A: I've been quite ill this week and had a couple visits to the doctor; due to this I haven't been on ...