ibanez 540 vs. 550

[gitfiddler]

i can get either for a pretty good deal.

what do you go with?

Assume same color, year, condition, and price. the 540 has sharks/bound neck + the ibanez usa pickups. the 550 has the stock, shit pickups

resale value isn't important. i'm more interested in sound, playability, etc

[jgcable]

I like the S540 better only because of the rounded body edges.
Both are fine guitars.
BTW... the stock pickups in an RG550 are not shit. They are the same quality as the Ibanez USA (Dimarzio) pickups.
If its an older one.. they are USA Dimarzio's that are in a 550. Usually a PAF Pro and maybe a Tone Zone or something of that flavor.

[heartfielder]

I agree John, the 550 pups are awesome in my opinion. The V7 & V8 kick ass !!!

I like the 550's playability better. Faster, flatter necks.

[straycat]

Its funny how people think stock pickups are shitty I find the stock pickups in Jackson and Ibanez guitars kick ass.Just tweak them a little and you will be amazed how good they can sound.

[gitfiddler]

Its funny how people think stock pickups are shitty I find the stock pickups in Jackson and Ibanez guitars kick ass.Just tweak them a little and you will be amazed how good they can sound.

which would you go with?

[straycat]

Which what?

[thetroy]

I would get the 540 just because I have something that is like a 550 already

[gitfiddler]

Which what?

540 or 550?

[straycat]

Either or thats up to you which ever feels the best.The 550 is more collectable if you ever sell it.

[jksnhill12]

I'd go with the 550. Great necks and 24 Frets.

[jim777]

The 550, no question for me, especially if she's got the maple board. If it's an older one (square heel) just check the neck at the back of the nut for cracks before buying. They are great necks, but don't respond well to tons of abuse (like dropping, they take playing forever).
But definitely the 550

[Mike]

Buy an RG 20th in RFR.

[jgcable]

You know what.. I changed my mind. After playing my 1989 RG550.. I would go with a 550. They kill, they are more collectible and they are considered the definitive super strat.

[Jackson-Charvel]

If the RG550 has a maple fretboard I'd go that route.

[heartfielder]

If the RG550 has a maple fretboard I'd go that route.

They usually do !!!