Replica "Custom Shop Strat"

[Oren]

A local enthusiast builds replica electric guitars, sourcing parts from after-market suppliers, and assembling astounding instruments - at least (in my opinion) as excellent as the original item.
This "Strat" has an original Floyd Rose bridge, maple neck and swamp ash body from Mighty Mite, two Fender noiseless single-coils and a Seymour Duncan humbucker in a Fender pickguard. From my experience as owner of several several high-end stratocasters, this monster plays (and sounds) as good as anything Fender has to offer.

[Oren]

After doing a bit of research, our local builder is not working in a vacuum, at all....
I had thought the aftermarket guitar parts industry supplied those who want to repair or upgrade their instrument, but it turns out assembling custom guitars from these excellent replacement necks/bodies/electronics/accessories and hardware is quite a popular hobby - or a way to build that unique instrument with your individual tastes in mind.
One gentleman maintains a website chronicalling his experiences, and offering advice and information - http://www.customstratocaster.com/

[folderol]

Thanks for the link - very interesting

[Oren]

More details that the craftsman included for that "Strat vibe...

[folderol]

That's some really class finishing there

[Oren]

That's some really class finishing there

...and it plays like a dream! Set up with my string guage (.009-.042), the guitar needed only adjustments to the Floyd tension springs - neck curvature remained perfect, and string height is ideal. I lowered the pickups a bit to get a more "open" tone.

[Oren]

And yet another website dedicated to a custom assembled Strat, built from Fender-approved replacement components. This fellow built it his way, and by the look of it, has an instrument that rivals anything that comes from the Fender custom shop...
http://www.ourlifeanew.com/guitars/

[folderol]

Mmmm.
Careful mate, you're turning into a custom junkie

[Oren]

...you're turning into a custom junkie...

Been one for a very long time, friend. Only lately had the leisure to pursue the inclination...