Ibanez AF guitar question!!

yiorgoszach · #1 12-26-2010, 03:20 PM

Hi guys!

I finally bought my first jazz guitar!

Its an Ibanez af86. Im very happy with it so far, its easy to play and has that warm sound i was looking for. I tried the new AF and AK models in that price range but that specific af86 sounded better to me.

Now im thinking of replacing the metal bridge and the tailpiece with a Benedetto ebony set.

Does anyone knows if it will fit the guitar?

I also want to change the tone and volume knobs and tuners but i cant find the specs of the af86 since its an old model. any one knows the right diameter?

Thanks!

spiral · #2 12-26-2010, 04:09 PM

You need a special tail pin and bone or ebony for the cable to sit on as it breaks over the edge of the guitar (so it doesn't crush the softer wood or binding). Keep in mind you will be losing a ground point to the strings and may not be improving the tone much.

A member, shoome, did this with his epiphone emperor and I think it sounds lovely, though his has no pickups:
http://www.jazzguitar.be/forum/guita...html#post87542

Another ibanez person talking about the same thing:
Ebony Tailpiece = Tone Improvement?

Socalbill · #3 12-29-2010, 06:33 PM

Hi,
I have a couple of Ibanez guitars, an AF75 and a 105. I don't think you would gain much from a new tailpiece. If you don't like the look, you could replace the wood part as it is just a screwed on piece. I found I improved tone and playablility by changing the Tune-o-matic bridge to a wood one and by changing the tuners. I like heavy Schallers and I swear they improve sustain and tone.
Just my opinion.
Bill

yiorgoszach · #4 12-30-2010, 08:09 AM

Thanks for the replies!

Which Schallers tuners did you put?

Socalbill · #5 12-30-2010, 11:03 AM

I used the regular M6 tuners. I put them on because the stock tuners were giving me trouble tuning. I also reworked the nut when I put the tuners on, so now I have no trouble tuning the guitar. In addition, I noticed a distinct change in the tone. More sustain. I love these guitars, but you have to show them who is boss. Get the action right, do the frets and chase any problems you encounter along the way. The results are worth it IMO.
Bill