SV5470f, s5470, or a used s540?

[JameyF]

The bug has bit me again. I tried several years ago to learn how to play a guitar. In '91 I was given a new blue s540fm for my birthday. I was in school and really wanted a computer, but I had to choose between sending that back to get a computer or giving up on part of my education. I chose to return the guitar in order to get the 'puter. Now, I've got the computers, started the family, and finally am considering getting another guitar and learning how to play. (musical interests...Satriani, Metallica, 80's rock..ahem..did I just say that out loud?)

So, I'm calling it my second 1st guitar. I've trolled here and a couple other spots to research what's available. I've learned as much as I can, but I want some opinions. Some have said the late eighties-mid nineties s540's are better than the new production. But, the new tremolo systems are easier to tune (in the case of the sv5470-non locking) or stay in tune better (in the case of the s5470-double locking). Also, because I'm new to this (again), I REALLY like the idea of knowing the condition of the instrument I'm getting. I'm sure there are some quality s540's that can be found, but I worry there may be issues that I don't notice until it's too late to mention to the seller.

I just received a bonus at work, and I'm expecting another. Those should cover either route I go. Assuming I can afford any of the three I've mentioned equally, which would be the best guitar to start with? Essentially, would you guys pay the same for an older s540 as a new s5470? Which is truely the better guitar? I'm really digging the SV5470f in blue (same finish as what I had), but if the older model truely is better, I'm open to saving some bucks. I also like the idea of the s5470 in viking red with double locking tremolo system to keep the guitar in tune much longer at a time.

I do not want to have to do any work on anything I purchase(change pickups, neck, restoring, etc.) It needs to be ready to go and be solid for a good bit of time. I'm looking to avoid all hassles possible. I want to spend my time and energy with the guitar learning to play, not stressing over other issues.

Is the S540 going to be easier or harder to play than the new models? Is it possible there are no bad choices between the three. Any recommended sites for purchaing one of the new models to get the best deal? My local shops aren't great (I live in a small town), but one of the shops can order it. The return policy isn't as good as some of the online stores I've seen. Is there any reason to assume I wouldn't get a great guitar without issues ordering online?

[Jemmm]

How can you resist one of these?

[JameyF]

Ok....So, I was gassing pretty badly!!! I tried to order a SV5470 in blue, but I couldn't get one. I settled on getting a S5470TKS, which is pretty cool itself. But, still I was tempted DARK SIDE.

Take a look at the DARK SIDE '93 model made in '92. It's pretty darn mint. Light surface scratches and just a hint of pitting on the hardware.

[reguv760]

Sweet axe! Here's a pair of mine:

The main difference other than the trem system is the price; I got the TKS new while the FM for 1/3rd of that.
So ya, point is... they're not quite the same axes although they play the same way: sleek, smooth and super darn easy to play. As for which one plays better? hmmm...
personally, I'd love to get that red S5470F

Reg

[AnDr3wYoN]

Well everyone else so far added pics.. so...

Having played both the S540 and the S5470 I think both are great guitars.. Unfortunately I have not been able to play the SV but if it's anything like the S5470 it'll be a nice guitar. The only real difference between the two being that the SV has the Synchronizr bridge and locking tuners instead of a locking nut.

And I agree with Judasbane that the biggest difference is probably going to be the Trem and the price.. and also the fact that the 5470 has 2 more frets which is always great to have and gives me more headroom to play up there.

As for finding a trustworthy Internet Ibanez dealer. Try Rich at Ibanez Rules. From what I've seen he gives excellent set ups which is something you we're looking for right? Playability right out of the box?

[taracatac]

Nice score! I recently bought an s540 in mint condition. Nothing beats the original Wizard neck!

[brianxtr]

the 540s is a great guitar.the old ibanez guitars have a different feel than the newer ones.
but i love both.but prefer the old ones....i m not sure why.....try and buy the one you like
best

[MFB]

Andr3w, you have my dream S series and for that I hate you

But damn do I love that black transparent finish

[AnDr3wYoN]

Yea. At first I thought the color was really dull looking. But keep in mind this was just pictures over the internet and stuff. In person the finish is beautiful.

[JameyF]

Originally Posted by AnDr3wYoN

Yea. At first I thought the color was really dull looking. But keep in mind this was just pictures over the internet and stuff. In person the finish is beautiful.

I was worried about the same thing. I did see one in a local store that didn't have a good finish at all. I wanted a the SV5470 because of the finish. The s5470 I received looked better than the pictures online, and much better than the one I saw in the store. My problem was the black '92 s540 I showed above, was of better quality than the s5470 and it cost me less than half the price. I did like the ZRII tremolo, and the case was absolutely gourgeous. I could easily jump back into a s5470 (or similar), but I sent the S5470 back today. I'll be looking for a '90-'93 540SFM transparent red in excellent condition. Or, I may try something alltogether different.