OK finally I have it in my hands.
here some pics....
craftmanship : AAA++
you won't believe when I say this guitar is done only in 2 weeks.
precise on the neck job : 430mmR, 17mm-19mm super wizard profile.
no fret buzz.
the headstock even have extra cosmetic work like the premium does.
feel very solid, doesn't feel anything like a cheap copy, doesn't even feel like original MII RG 4XX series. but again..it's may be very subjective.
the down side :
the material of the mahogany for the body back might not be a top quality one.
it's not a pristine clean piece of wood, i'm very sure this kind of wood would be rejected by Fujigen or any Japanese manufacturer if you want to do transparent finish. because it has some 'black wood spot', cosmetically it's not nice...
but soundwise, it has nothing to do with the overall tone... I guess.
the luthier took initiative to put Ibanez prestige logo on the headstock... I didn't ask for it, but since it's there.. so let it be for now.
the size of the headstock is slightly longer than original ibanez headstock. Measured it up with a ruler... it's confirmed.
finishing : a little harsh, I did ask for matte natural finish, but the surface of the body is not too smooth, felt like some dust stays on the body no matter what.
soundwise/ tone :
unpluged : it's very clear, bright, every strings ring nicely.
plug in : very bright, if I have some buzz issue, it will kill me instantly, but the good news is.. it doesnt have any buzz, so I'd be safe.
the dimarzio on it is Steve special, love it for chuga chuga djent rhythm playing, but soloing.. it's a little too bright.
this issue can easily be solved if i put tone zone on it.
overall :
very satisfied. will do next project with this guy again with different wood specs.
for 2 weeks job... this guy can do better than another guy who's done my other custom for 8 months.
all downside points come from cosmetic department.
but playability, neck and fret precision, and price is very satisfactory.
