I finally received my new AT 10 Premium guitar last night, after an unexpected mix up with the retailers shipping dept. The guitar was preordered right after NAMM, and the outer and Inner Ibanez boxes were labeled correctly but the case held the new Premium Universe 7 string. Mistakes always happen, and this is where having a good relationship with a reputable dealer makes a difference. I have my AT 10 today, and they went beyond the norm to make sure I was satisfied.
The guitar has stunning looks. Other than the tuners, and bridge, i couldn't distinguish this model from the Prestige that retails at $3700, ( the street price for this premium is $1299). It has the exact same signature Dimarzios, and a slightly different Wilkinson trem, but for a non locking trem and nut, the tuning stability is awesome.
The absolute best thing about this guitar is the neck. Wow,.. It just feels great, like an old friend. The "out of the box" setup is perfect for my style. No buzzing, no fretting out, intonation spot on. I would normally adjust the trem immediately to a floater, but as it is so sweet, I'll at least wait till my first string change. It comes with the bridge sitting on the body, only allowing pitch drops, but this does aid in tuning stability.
I pre-ordered the very first premiums released, a few years back, and now own 2 of that model rg 920. I was impressed then, although I can't say that was the feeling of many ibanez owners. I have many,MANY Prestige models, and I prefer them, but these Guitars coming out of the Premium factory are quality instruments. When they sell with the same Dimarzios as their Prestige brothers I don't find much to not like. The only issue I had with the RG 920's were the fretboard radius. This particular model has the same specs as its Prestige twin, so I have to say, I couldn't see paying double the price for the Prestige model.
Here's a quick pic with my Prestige RG 1550 with Fishman Triple Play midi, and my new AT 10 Premium ANdy Timmons model. Will take better pics soon!