Ok, I have a MIC 1997 Squier Affinity Strat I want to modify. I was looking to do a Frankenstein replica, but decided against making an exact replica of someone's signature. io do, however, want to pull from soem other signature axes, but solely as influences and not replicating any of them. And I definitely want this build to be economical (cheaper the better).
After looking around, I've read that Affinity strats should all be alder. With that in mind, I'm keeping the body. After I strip the pant/sand it, and find out it's not alder, well, we'll cross that bridge if we get there.
I just got me a jackson with a locking trem (will post pics soon ), so I'm looking to have this one for drop tunings (if so desired). I basically want an axe to handle sounds like that of Jake E. Lee, Warren Dimartini, Erik Turner/Joey Allen, Mark Slamer, Dave Sabo/Scotti Hill and Jerry Cantrell. However, I also want it to versatile enough to hit tunes like that of Mike McCready and Mr. Wyle alike.
I know i want a H-S-S configuration. The 2 bridge options so far are either a Duncan JB or Bill/Becky Lawrence L500XL. S-S possibilities are either 2 SDS-1's or 2 YJM's.
As for the bridge, I haven't decided on a trem or hardtail. If trem, then either wilkinson, gotoh, or vintage 6-hole.
Definitely want a brass nut and either Grover or Schaller locking tuners.
As stated above, I want this to be an economical build. With that in mind, I'm not sure just yet if i want to get a new neck just yet. If I do, it will be maple/maple,mand possibly scalloped.
500k pots, either 3-way or 5-way selector, and probably 1 volume, no tone.
Not sure about the final paint scheme or hardware color (that's where you guys come in )
In mind so far, I'm thinking eith white or ivory with white pickguard. I wanna pull from these 2:
As you can see, contemplating the gold or silver hardware with the white paint. May also relic the guitar, too. Please give me opinions.