some help for modifications les paul

[shark]

hi,
I bought an epiphone les paul. but I 've heard that not all the parts on that kind of guitar are good, so I was thinking of replacing the humbuckers, rewiring the guitar, putting on a bone nut and getting some new tuners. but I 'm kinda new in setting up my guitar so, I can use some opinions about the things I want to change. are there some part that you guys wouldn't change or would change?

 

[green_insomniac]

Re: some help for modifications les paul

You might wanna think about changing the bridge and control pots, too.

Have fun with the project!

Peace.

 

[Metalman_666]

Re: some help for modifications les paul

I would put an EMG-AB (Afterburner) in place of a tone control. *Shrugs* I don't really use the tone anyway, but if you don't like that suggestion then that's cool

 

[Lee_M.]

Re: some help for modifications les paul

I've done lots of mods to two historic LP's in the last 3 years:

1. Change all four pots to "CTS 500K Audio Taper"
2. Change out the capacitors for Hovland Musicaps (0.22, 1000V)
3. Change out the pups to DUNCANS! A good set of SD's will treat you right.

Those are the most funtional mods and don't require too much work to your guitar - they are all electronics related. You should see a big difference with those three.

 

[texasguitarslinger]

Re: some help for modifications les paul

I upgraded my pickups, wiring, pots, toggle switch. I also installed Schaller strap locks. I'd recommend having a luthier install the bone nut unless you have experience with that procedure. I've never seen any need to change the bridge or stop tail piece.

 

[rspst14]

Re: some help for modifications les paul

The electronics are the best place to start. Upgrade the pots, the switch, and the pickups, and then wire it according to the star-grounding principal (all grounds soldered to one location.) Strap locks are a must, go with either Schaller or Dunlop. If you really want to go all out, get a Tonepros bridge, locking tuners, and an Earvana nut.

Ryan

 

[midnite_man]

Re: some help for modifications les paul

hi,
I bought an epiphone les paul. but I 've heard that not all the parts on that kind of guitar are good, so I was thinking of replacing the humbuckers, rewiring the guitar, putting on a bone nut and getting some new tuners. but I 'm kinda new in setting up my guitar so, I can use some opinions about the things I want to change. are there some part that you guys wouldn't change or would change?

In my Epi LP Standard I replaced the pickups (Custom/PGn), CTS 500k pots (I used .022 Orange Drops, but any good poly cap will work), switch, and tuners (went with Sperzel lockers). I haven't done anything about the nut, bridge or tailpiece, but if I did I'd get a complete Tonepros set for the guitar and have a bone nut installed.
All the things I listed above made a big difference in how the guitar now performs.

-Bob

 

[green_insomniac]

Re: some help for modifications les paul

A new bridge could increase sustain and overall make the tone sound better, especially is it's a good replacement bridge.

Peace.

 

[7th Hell]

Re: some help for modifications les paul

Definitly swap out the pups for SD's! As far as the rest I wouldn't go too crazy- before long you'll have spent as much as you would if you bought a real Gibson Les Paul! If the "going out of tune" thing is happening, get a set of Sperzel Locking Tuners.