Hey there!
First post; so be easy on me...
I have got Historics (Gibson), Custom Shops, whathaveyou... But what I end up with is my cheap (not so much anymore) Squier Protone. So I would encourage you; changes made may be very rewarding.
To change the overall feeling of your guitar; replacing the bridge (is it an ABR-type?) and studs, together with the tailpiece may be good. I replaced original ones on a Reissue 58 and a 59 with Callaham ABR-1 and a Pigtail TP. With studs. Brings out a lot more vibe to the guitars. Sustain. Feels good.
Changing the nut (some kind of bone-nut maybe) can also be nice. But it is a bit of work. Especially if its not precut.
Pickups and electronics; absolutely worth trying - but there are so many options, in pickups. And we all have our own tastes. I could reccommend, but that may not fit you. CTS-pots. I am all over the place as far as caps goes. Use what is close at hand.
Maybe top-wrapping the tailpiece you got is good for you. You just go the other way with the strings - next time you change them. http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o186/Turbo7MN/bridge.jpg
Some like the tailpiece all the way down to the body.
A general setup (intonation, string height, pickup height and such) may bring your guitar more "to life".
I wish you well in your quest!
It is not about the price of the instrument - it is what you put into it.
