Here goes...My Ibanez 2454...Notice the bridge...
Ibanez 2454 from someone elses post...
It seems that mine is not the stock bridge. I can't get the intonation quite right because some strings are as long as I can get them, but they're still sharp. The string height is as low as it will go (the relief seems perfect) and I'd like to go a bit lower. So, what are the pros and cons of a new bridge? I'm inclined to live with the current one to preserve the integrity. If I decide to replace it, what kind should I use? Do I have any chance of finding an original one?
The second thing is the electronics. I've gotten several opinions on this. All of the pots show their age (scratchy sound, dead spots). The plug is loose in the jack. It hums like crazy. It needs to be wiggled just right to make contact. I've also wrapped a ring of foil around the base of the jack to alleviate this. It makes me think it's some sort of grounding problem. I'm sure someone has experience on the technical electronic stuff. So, my first thought was to replace everything but the pups (no problems there, they sound great). I've been told this will decrease the value and collectibility, but someone else said it won't. Another option is to clean the pots and adjust the jack. Any more advice on how to do this is welcome. I'm open to doing either of these. The selling value isn't really an issue since that's not what I have in mind (though everything has it's price, they'll probably pry my cold dead fingers off the neck). At this point, with all things considered, I'm leaning toward having a pro install new pots, jack, and switch (the whole assembly from "MOJO" is $90 USD). Another option is to take a shot at installing the assembly myself.
So to sum up; 1.Replace the bridge or not. Replace it with what? 2.Try to remedy the stock electronics(again, additional advice on this is quite welcome) or replace them? Give a go myself or pay a pro?
No offence to any of the other forums, but I think you guys have a more thorough pool of knowledge and experience on vintage guitars. My apologies for being so lengthy, but I think you can understand my passion on this.
Thank you all for your time and expertise.
Badger
