Ron G

Almost plug-n-play, but not quite. Pre-slotted nuts, like the well-made ones that GraphTech (Tusq) sells usually need the bottom to be sanded for the proper height. It is also a trial-and-error process, albeit much simpler than fabricating a nut from scratch. FYI, I don't support the better tone arguments about nut material - I replaced nuts that were worn out or broken.

I think we're supposed to be impressed.......

As you may be aware, the US has never adopted the metric system of measurements. It looks like the locking Rotomatics (25/64") will not fit your guitar without drilling out the holes. It appears that your holes are 5/16". I suggest that you send a private message to a member named "TWANG" - he will be happy to help you sort this out, as he is extremely knowledgeable regarding Epiphone modifications.

Although I'm fairly certain that the Grovers you're considering will fit, you can measure the diameter of your post holes, and refer to the specs on Grover's web site - click on "post hole sizes" http://www.grotro.com/ColorSpecMain.html

Steve, perhaps you could submit your question as a poll. The results would be interesting and informative.

Why do you assume the guitar will need "upgrades"? Especially since you don't even own it yet and, I assume, haven't played one enough (if at all) to determine if such "upgrades" are necessary. If you haven't already guessed, I'm not a fan of knee-jerk upgrades. After spending major bucks on tailpiece, bridge, pots, caps, wires, nut and tuners, it'll still be pretty much the same guitar - your wallet will just be lighter. But if it makes you feel better, go for it. Also, if you're into high gain, DO NOT buy a Casino.

Is it possible that the "J" stands for Jakarta?

Small correction for clarity: The term "B-stock", as used by many of the major online stores, and specifically regarding Epiphone guitars, indicates a factory 2nd ("2nd" is stamped on the back of the headstock) which is an authorized and fully-warranted item that may have a cosmetic blemish or have been a dealer return but (allegedly ) has no playability issues. The "used" ones, as sold on eBay, are "true" factory rejects, and not under warranty, although they may be quite good, from what I've seen on the forums.

My point is that some makers of guitars, violins and......whatever are introducing new technology into their construction. Whether and when these new materials become more common is the question. Beside cost/profit, the "way we've always done it" is a big factor; resistance to change is very common. But composites are here to stay. Hell, the new Boeing 787 is made of composites, as is Richard Branson's new mothership for his new space vehicle. Aesthetics aside, there is a real attraction to me of a quality guitar that's almost unbreakable, impervious to weather and doesn't require adjustment due to material instability.

Ian, CA's guitars don't have steel frames, nor do they have truss rods - they apparently don't need them. You might want to take a look at their web site and see what they're all about. http://www.compositeacoustics.com/ Quite interesting....now if I could just play one....

Looking around the guitarofchina site, I see that there is no relationship whatsoever between their price and the price of the genuine article. A $300 Squier Strat????!!!!