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Do I keep it?


jeffkelly

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I've always wanted a V -- probably got hooked during the 80s metal era. As of last weekend I finally own one. While shopping I had a choice between a variety of V style guitars. I settled on a Jackson KVX10 and a used 2004 (American) Flying V. I eventually purchased the Gibson.

 

After playing it for a few days, here are my observations. First, I'll say I don't play lead well but can hammer a mean bar cord O:)


  1.  
  2. The guitar won't stay in tune. I've traced it to lose keys; they all need replacing. Where do I get keys that don't require additonal drilling? I prefer original Gibson keys.
     
  3. Compared to my Les Paul Studio, the action seems significantly slower and it is harder to play.
     
  4. I get the raunchy heavy metal sound my other guitars cannot deliver -- which is partially why I purchased it.
     
  5. The varnish on the fretboard is gone on both sides (where the C bar chord is halfway up the neck). It's as if the original owner only played in one spot. I suppose it can be repaired.
     
  6. The pickups are lopsided and angle toward the bridge. Is this a propblem?
     
  7. I'm a bit disappointed the V doesn't have a tremelo system. However, I have another guitar that does.
     
  8. .....but it's a Gibson V!
     

 

My delimma: After just a few days, I'm likely going to lose the guitar to a repair center (to replace the keys). I'll likely re-varnish the fretboard sides myself. That leaves action...my perceived comfort on the neck. Perhaps it's because I've played the LP for so long and an old '84 Aria Pro II Knight Warrior (fast action). Resale value is not at issue; I just want a V guitar that plays fast, feels good, (stays in tune) and delivers the grungy metal sound I love. My guitars will be passed to my children if they eventually show an interest in music

 

Comments please: Do I get the V fixed and keep it or return the guitar and buy the Jackson? I realize this is a subjective question, but I'm sure members of this board understand all the dynamics of owning a V -- which goes beyond my thoughts above. My wife bought the guitar as a present so I have carte blanche on my decision.

 

Thanks,

 

Jeff

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My thoughts

 

1) Any used guitar needs to be fret "Level & Dress" by a competent Luthier. This allows the lowest action.

 

 

2) The V Headstock has unique design which demands crucial adjustment and care and maintenance of the Nut slot angle. - because the string length between the Nut and the Tuners are at far more extreme angles than a typical Gibson Les Paul style headstock.

 

Personally I would have a luthier install a Graph-Tech self lubricating Nut.

 

 

Definitely have both above done before replacing the Tuners.

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Tough call

 

Those Jacksons can be quite collectable - I know a guy who owns 8 of them -

 

Go for the one that "speaks" to you.

 

or - wait and seek other examples.

 

You want to put your money into a guitar that inspires you.

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