Converting my SSS to HS

[sublimerules9604]

I have a couple questions regarding switching my MIM strat from SSS to HS. I am looking to get a little more versatility out of my strat. I like the tone of the Lace Sensors, but the red just needs a little more push, im not sure if the blue will mesh well with a humbucker, and I rarely use the silver in the middle.

First will putting a hot rails or the like in the bridge accomplish the same thing, and is replacing everything worth it?

What would be the most versatile pickup setup for HS? I would like to be able to split the bridge.

Does the bridge humbucker need to be trem spaced?

I heard that the screws don't line up the same between MIM and MIA so where would be a good place to get a HS MIM pickguard?

Is it worth it while I'm at it to replace the the pots, caps and switch while im at it?

 

[alex1fly]

Re: Converting my SSS to HS

The Hot Rails will definitely give you more push to your bridge tone; it may be worth it to get the HR, try it out and see if it works out for you- if not, use the exchange policy to swap it for a full size before replacing everything. I've never used lace sensors but I used a bridge HR for a while and it does help make the strat sound huge.

 

[MikeS]

Re: Converting my SSS to HS

I have a couple questions regarding switching my MIM strat from SSS to HS. I am looking to get a little more versatility out of my strat. I like the tone of the Lace Sensors, but the red just needs a little more push, im not sure if the blue will mesh well with a humbucker, and I rarely use the silver in the middle.

First will putting a hot rails or the like in the bridge accomplish the same thing, and is replacing everything worth it?

If you're buying a new pickguard and your guitar is routed for a bridge humbucker, then IMO there's no reason not to go with a full humbucker. I think two single coil sized humbuckers would look goofy, anyway.

You could just replace the bridge pickup and keep the SSS layout. The hotrails would work fine. Not my personal favorite, but it certainly doesn't have any problem providing enough push.

What would be the most versatile pickup setup for HS? I would like to be able to split the bridge.

Splitting the bridge is easy. I'm having a lot of fun with a center off mini toggle that allows me to select north/both/south of the bridge humbucker.

Does the bridge humbucker need to be trem spaced?

Doesn't have to be. There have been many questions regarding trem spaced pickups, and when/if they are needed. Does it need to be trem spaced? Only if pole piece to string alignment is a concern for you.

I heard that the screws don't line up the same between MIM and MIA so where would be a good place to get a HS MIM pickguard?

Worst case is that you have to drill a couple holes. Check Terrapin and pickguards.com to see if they offer guards specifically for MIM Fenders.

Is it worth it while I'm at it to replace the the pots, caps and switch while im at it?

Depends. I don't know when they began doing this, but even MIM Fenders have CTS pots and switchcraft jacks & switches these days. The only reason to replace them would be boredom I suppose.