kdilla Posted January 23, 2017 Share Posted January 23, 2017 I recently inherited a black Les Paul Custom (dated 1970-75 by serial #) from my favorite cool uncle. It has aged beautifully, but I believe it has lost all its value as a collectible because it was modified long ago. I'm not sure if the neck pickup is original, but the bridge humbucker was definitely swapped out for a DiMarzio, and an extra switch added to the controls -- I assume to toggle between single-coil and humbucker sounds -- but the wiring is all wrong. It needs repairs at least. Now that the damage has been done, would I be crazy to mod this vintage instrument even further to match my own playing preferences? I am a single-coil guy and am in love with the style and sound of the 1954 LP Custom with the "staple" pickup in the neck and the P-90 in the bridge. (It has been reissued several times, and even the reissues are very expensive.) Seymour Duncan offers a "Phat Staple" that fits a humbucker cavity, and it looks and sounds amazing. I'm seriously thinking about putting one in the neck. I haven't decided whether I'd keep the coil-split DiMarzio in the bridge, or look for something better. I love modding guitars but I've never been a collector of vintage instruments before. Am I contemplating a huge mistake here from your perspective? Thanks, K Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cam in alberta Posted January 23, 2017 Share Posted January 23, 2017 You are not detracting from the value of the guitar by changing something that is already not original. Refinishing or carving holes in the guitar will be the only thing that further decreases its value. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OldCowboy Posted January 23, 2017 Share Posted January 23, 2017 The mod's already there, so go for it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kidblast Posted January 24, 2017 Share Posted January 24, 2017 I agree, damage done, if your free and clear to make your own mods, go for it. you could also check out P94s, which re SC pups that will fit a standard humbucker route. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Zentar Posted January 26, 2017 Share Posted January 26, 2017 Do a professional job. Don't do any routing. They don't make 1970 LPs anymore. Don't try and play tennis with a cricket ball. It sounds to me like you need a LP Jr. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jdgm Posted February 14, 2017 Share Posted February 14, 2017 The "Phat Staple" pickup you mentioned and a P94....voila! No extra routing needed and simple wiring too. LP Custom + P90s = [thumbup] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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