if you have a fake les paul copy from china or something can you replace the bridge like you did with no problem? or will there be size differences? Thanks
@SabbathFan132 It's a complex question you're asking that can only be truthfully answered by knowing what specs to check, then ordering the correct parts. It also depends on several other things, but you CAN probably make the change without too much of a problem.
@guitartec Your absolutely right. Here's an Idea, I have an american gibson Sg, in theory I could just take it off and try it on the other guitar and if it doesn't fit no harm done right? If it doe's I guess i could just find out its specs and order another.
@SabbathFan132 Gibson bridges have smaller diameter posts compared to most Asian copies. Doing what you said could be used for measurement purposes only if you just rest it over your Chinese bridge, but your Gibson bridge almost definitely will not fit on your Chinese posts. Also, your Gib bridge is probably an ABR-1, which is NOT a great bridge to upgrade to. You want a Gibson "Nashville TOM" or a copy of one. Look up the differences between the two. The Nashville rules!
@psyckla5 Well, it's neither, but I'd say it's much more like a Gibson neck. It certainly doesn't have an ESP/Ibanez shredder neck that's got a real flat radius fingerboard, and it doesn't have an asymmetrical profile like a newer Gibson neck. I guess I'd say It's roughly the shape of some of the vintage Gibson Melody Makers or LP Specials I've played, but not as bulky (D shaped). It's real comfortable for most players.
Thank you so much for all your info! One last question regarding the Earvana. What about the Agile wide necks that are 1-3/4 at the nut. If I were to get a wide neck guitar, does Earvana make a nut wide enough to fit that?
Great video! A couple of questions for you. According to Rondo's website, the AL 2800 models and up come with a 1-5/8" bone nut. Is that the the one you replaced on this guitar or did this model come with the graphite nut? I was just curious if maybe they have made the effort to improve the nut and it's not as necessary to replace. Also, have you ever tried a DiMarzio SD 100 in this guitar? If so, how did it sound?
@killerdude35 When we got our 3100, GraphTec nuts were all they offered. We love bone, so GraphTec Tusq is a 2nd choice. Graphite is brittle & prone to breakage. BTW, We installed an Earvana nut on our axe which is a totally different concept. It's "compensated" & improves how well it plays in tune near the nut. Like Graphtec Tusq, it's a high-press laminate too. The SD-100 is a 2nd choice compared to a Gibson Burst or 498T. SD-100 are a bit "nasely" whereas Gibsons are "dynamic".
@guitartec Thanks for your response. One more question. I'm actually looking to purchase an AL-3000. If I wanted to replace the nut on it with an Earvana, which model do I need to get?? Is the one you used the "drop in" Gibson style nut?
@killerdude35 On most Agiles we've installed them on, the 1-11/16" Gibson drop-in seems to work better than the 1-5/8" drop in, (regardless of the Rondo advertised spec). Either way, it's a ton of work to fit an Earvana because the Agile nut shelf is much shallower than a Gibson. You'll need to remove a lot of material from the Earvana. It's by no means a simple procedure.
I get 50-100 emails a week on this video and everyone seems to understand my point there. They are genuinely thankful for me drawing attention to the minor negatives. If you're worried what everyone might think of my use of the word cheap, I can tell you that virtually all inquiries we get are by players who appear intelligent enough to see this axe for what it is; a great deal, and they can also see that it's positives outweigh its negatives by a big margin.
You ought to find another adjective other than cheap to use. Mother of pearl cheap? Even if it so-called flawed it's a bit much to call it cheap. The bottom line is Gibson is overly priced and these guitars are very reasonable at $400.00. As you clearly demonstrate with a few basic inexpensive upgrades you're still under the price tag of a Gibson studio, and you have at lest the quality of a Standard. The Standard I had wasn't as nice as this guitar, and it was priced at $2200.00 back in 2000.
@guitartec No problem! Haha that bastard. I think im gonna buy this guitar with a floyd, probably gonna put dimarzio sd (B) and seymour duncan 59(N) though.
Hi, Great guitar work! I will be moving to RI in near future so now I know there is one aexcellent guitar shop that I can take my guitars to. I also own the 3000M but it is a neck thru model. It came with locking brigde and tail piece, graphite nut.I also did swap few pickups but back to the originals. I did want to ask you what would you recommend for the neck pickup for this guitar? I play mostly with little overdrive, into metheny type single line playing.
@taikoking1 Hi, I don't usually recommend pups as they are too subjective, but Gibsons really do it for me.
I recently did a back-to-back video test with several pups installed in my Agile's lead pos ranging from Dimarzios, Duncans and a Lawrence, to the Agile Anlico V & a Gibson 498T. The 498T won hands down with anyone who watched the video. Unfortunately, utubes 10 minute video cap killed my only copy of the video which was too long. It's now stuck in "My Videos" and is unwatchable.
@guitarplayer1A If I understand you, you still need to loosen the truss rod because the neck is too straight. That's why it's buzzing so much. Put a little bow in the neck.
@guitarplayer1A That's not the nut causing the problem. Your neck is too straight or back bowed. Loosen the truss rod a 1/4 - 1/2 turn.
TIP... STRING BUZZ SHOULD ONLY BE DETERMINED WHEN PLAYED NORMALLY THRU AN AMP ON THE CLEANEST SETTINGS YOU NORMALLY USE. If ALL you use is heavy distortion, buzz is nearly impossible to hear thru the amp. If you do play clean sometimes, set the truss rod with the amp set that way, AND PLAY NORMALLY until the rod adjustment affects the buzz to your liking.
my guitar is al 2000 it came with not graph tech nut it is horrible nut.my guitar buzzing and thats why i want to change it...i m thinking how to fix this problem..i need advise
@guitarplayer1A Okay, I thought you had a higher model. If you want to explain the buzzing problem precisely, I may be able to resolve it for you. I need to know if it happens when you play open or fretted notes and which string it is.
@guitarplayer1A Your guitar comes with a Graph Tech nut, so you don't need that nut. The Earvana nut is special, and causes the the guitar to play better in tune (if installed and adjusted properly). The Earvana is an upgrade that has to be installed by someone who knows how to do it or you will get no benefit.
The 74.42mm spacing should work because of the play (slop) in the threads of the height adjusters. You may have to play with it to get it to go on.
@guitarplayer1A If you're trying to duplicate my guitar, you'll need a 1-3/4" Earvana shelf nut that fits a Gibson guitar. It will take quite a bit of shaving as the Earvana is designed to fit a deep shelf, and the Agile's shelf is shallow. It's NOT an easy install.
The bridge is a lot easier. You'll need a copy of a Nashville TOM bridge with the large post holes and 74mm center to center post spacing. Consider getting a tech to do the work.
What specific model of pickup are you using? Is it a gibson 490t? Because i have an agile 3100 too and Im looking for a pickup that sounds similar to Adam Jones from Tool.. Im really on a tone chase right now...
@ezt123dp Tone can be an expensive thing to chase. The lead pup is a Gibson 489T, and Imust say the dynamics of the Gibson pup truly exceeded any of the Duncans, Dimarzios, Lawrence, and cheapos we installed in this guitar. This was a blind study we did that allowed instant comparisons between many pups.
@kizmetx The right angle SC switch is for SGs and some jazz boxes, so it's the straight. BTW... It is NOT a straight forward install, so know what you're doing.
I have the exact same problem with an Indie ocean shape guitar. the intonation is perfect but when I play around the two middle strings on the first few frets it sounds slightly off, its not a huge problem but it is noticeable enough to make a 7 chord sounds sour. I don't think that the nut is dodgy but I am using Ernie ball skinny top heavy bottom strings do you think it is just the strings?
@beastlymarshmallow Unless your strings are old and funky, it's not the strings. It's more likely a combination of several things, some easily fixable with a good set-up done by a tech with tons of experience. Also, a light playing style may help greatly.
@beastlymarshmallow It could be the strings, I was having similar problems and thought it had to with the intonation. My guitar tech just threw some Elixers on and it was perfect... So yeah, try changing your strings first. :)
Hey, how well does this stay in tune with the stock hardware? And with the pickup selector, can you still get that tremolo sound you can get with the Gibsons or Epis?
that's what's great about these guitars though...even if you decide to spend the extra money to install a new nut, new electronics, new bridge, and maybe even a new set of US-made pups, you're STILL getting a great guitar for well under $600 (for the AL-3100 series. i think the AL2000 series is great too). from a player's perspective, i think these are just such an overall better deal than Epi's now, and are giving a lot of the factory Gibby's a run for their money!
I'm planning on purchasing an Agile 3100 wide. I guess the nut is 1 3/4 and the bridge string spacing is 1mm wider.
Could you please recommend me which Tonepros Locking set I should get with those specs? And maybe tell me what other things I'll need to order, such as switches and whatnot?
I don't know much about guitar modding, but I figure I could just order the parts and have my local guitar shop do the installation. I just need to know what to order.
HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT THE PHYSICAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE AGILE AL-3100 AND A GIBSON LP? If so, I am in the process of doing an in-depth A/B comparison between the two. It covers things like; Nut material, headstock angles, inlays, fretboard and bridge radius, fret dims and crown work, some elec info, woods & finish, plastics, shielding, weight relief, neck profile & tenon info, truss rod info, etc. This is a "Work In Process" comparison, so if you have input, great.
@store1992 Can't imaging there would be any decernable tone difference that could matter, but I've never compared the two. A bit of unsolicited advise; Slim and wide neck Agiles are harder to resell, so be real sure you want to go that route.
@imarealgamer Generally, heavy fret buzz at only one fret position on the fretboard can indicate a high fret. High action lessens the buzz, but is not the proper cure for it. It just hides it.
Putting the proper relief in the neck and measuring fret height will tell you (or your tech) for sure.
The guitar was not designed for that tuning, so I can't tell you with certainty if your specific guitar will need more intonation adjustment than the stock bridge can provide. It may work fine. The ABR-1 bridge (a total POS) should be exchanged out if you have the means. You may want to experiment w/heavier strings if possible
The Earvana nut can only help things even more, if it's installed properly, that is.
loved the video, I am looking to get an "Agile Interceptor Pro 625 EB Black Flame", what modifications if any would you suggest if I do get the guitar?
Perfect video ... excellent information and well explained regarding the bridge and nut mods... thanks. I think it's just a matter of time before I add one of these beauties to my existing LP collection, and these are the mods I now intend to consider.
So is that ebay $22.99 special : tune-0-matic nashville bridge for a gibson USA that bolts right up? Sorry about all the questions, I've read/
learned a lot from Dan Erlelwines books. But that can only take you so far; watching your videos is a hands-on spin that pics and verbiage cxan't match. Very cool!
@170bcuda Not sure, but sounds right. 74mm post to post should work. Dan talks a lot, but his tricks seem antiquated. He's still clever tough. Funny, I hear he has a Plek machine in his shop. Go figure.
Nice video. Thanks for all the tips. I just bought an AL3100 that I plan on tinkering with. What SG bridge pup did you install?? They come with a variety, 498T, burstbucker, 57 classic, 490 etc etc.
We installed a 498T we had laying around. We also installed 5 other pups and did a controlled video comparison of them all. Unfortunately, the video was too long, so we couldn't upload it. However, everyone here who watched that video agreed that the 498T was the clear winner. All the others (Super Dist, Lawrence L500, 2 Duncans, and the Agile OEM, all sounded bland except the Gibson, which stood out tone-wise. The output also seemed as hot as the hottest pup.
@guitartec thanks for the quick response. I always liked the 498T, some folks don't. I think that 498T, 490R gave the SG that driving rock tone.
That earvana nut looks very interesting, never heard of that brand before. Funny, I have all those same pups you mentioned layin around from project guitars, in one shape or form :-)
You should try a bunch of pups in the guitar you normally play. It's the ONLY way, in my book, to choose pups. Opinions or catalogs stink.
The Earvana cures sharp notes caused by too much finger pressure and set-up issues. It' seems best with reg lt gauge 10-46 strings. We use 11-49s and the D is just a tad flat in the 2nd position. Overall, though, our axe plays in tune much better over the entire scale length.
Do you think this guitar will last a long time? I don't really plan on playing live as I am a hobbyist but I want a damn solid guitar that will last me until I am old.
@Maxpound If you take care of anything properly, it should outlast you. If you drop your guitar, freeze and boil it, or lend it to friends, well, then, no. Sorry for the cold, dry answer, but this is the only truthful answer I have.
@guitartec Well I appreciate the answer. I'm just kinda weary of buying a guitar and then outgrowing it because of the sound or growing irritated of the intonation(I have one guitar that has had fret buzz ever since I had it regardless of how it was set up.) again thanks for the response.
@Maxpound My guess is your taste in guitars will change before you could ever wear the guitar out. Intonation and fret buzz can easily and inexpensively be fixed with a simple fret dressing (a fret leveling and re-crowning), so in my book, they're not reasons to dislike a guitar. The Agile LPs are good straight ahead instruments for the money (which incidentally, may need a fret dressing right out of the box), but all the pieces are there for a killer guitar. The next step in LPs are big $
You may be getting confused with Epiphone which uses Korean-made switches and jacks. They're utter junk. Gibson has always used Switchcraft switches and jacks. They are the best you can buy.
@Corey273 A standard square LP metal jack plate that has a slight bend so it can contour the side of the body. The plate should be perfectly square, not a rectangle. If there's poor hole alignment, chalk it up to poor design. It can be easily fixed by properly filling the hole(s) and re-drilling. TIP: Make sure the cord plugs in smoothly into the jack after installation. Sometimes the jack's two wires get in the way, thus binding the plug.
My Agile had awesome frets. I love the stock pups too. I just wish they weren't so well potted so I could coil tap 'em! haha I did have a wiring issue though, the stock caps were shorted out so I shot 'em an email and they sent me a very nice wiring harness with cloth wires for free! Great great great guitar. (Mines an AS-820 though)
The TonePro will probably fit. Just make sure you get the bridge with the correct size stud holes.
I have inexpensive replacement gold Nashville-style bridges (China-made) for sale that fit the stock Agile bridge studs. $35.usd +s/h. Definitely an upgrade from the stock China ABR-1 that comes stock on most Agiles.
Takes about 30 years for most techs to really get a good idea of what's going on, but the kids usually think they knew it all yesterday. Find an old tech who needs a son.
Sorry bout the smart-ass answer, but it's the truth no one wants to hear.
Lets say You want to do everything you did but are not a Guitar tech and dont want to monkey around with the guitar in fear of fucking something up. Where would you go for help
LONG ANSWER; I think if I were going to replace it, I would install either a TonePro locking style tp or an aluminum one in gold, but it's really not necessary as they're both real expensive.There's bigger problems to worry about than what's happening after the bridge. And if it were really a big deal, everyone would be talking about sonically resonant tuner posts as well. Put your dough towards more important things.
@guitartec Thanks man, I put in a Gotoh bridge in addition to my SD pickups, and this thing just sings now. You're completely right, the stock bridge was total crap (realized it even more once I put in a decent replacement one).
I noticed you upgraded the bridge, which is what I'm thinking of doing too. But is it necessary to also upgrade the tail piece, or is that just a waste of money?
Are you asking how the Earvana nut specifically affects the guitar as a whole, or the principals behind a normal (non-compensated) nut?
The Earvana is a very unique type of nut that is designed to help with typical problems associated with too much finger pressure and tall frets in the first few playing positions.
This, along with the availability of wide-necks on some models, is the precise reason that I buy Agile guitars. I'm inclined to heavily mod any guitar that I buy... but with Gibsons and American Made Fenders, I won't touch them for fear of affecting the resale value. With an Agile, I'm emboldened to go wild (Jimmy Page wiring, ramping-down the frets, bone nut etc...)
I like Schaller roller bridges though... the one where you can adjust the width string spacing. Wider is better!
Thanks! We don't disagree and we also don't suggest you should do anything to your guitar. This is simply what we did to this guitar to make it more like a Gibson LP Custom.
Seems like you had to do an awful lot of work on that Agile... and swapped out a lot of components... how would you rate it out of box? Assuming as soon as you got it in your hands you gave it a basic, plain jane setup...was it at least accceptable?
Not at all. I did most of this stuff out of preference, not necessity. Out of the box, many Asian-made instruments lack one important thing; a great set-up. Agiles are better than most, but they're not perfect. I guess that's why so many people send their Agiles to me for a better set-up. Even so, many are good right out of the box.
My AL3100 was setup amazing perfect for a shredder. The sound's not quite as hot as i would like, but they definitely get the job done. You won't regret getting one. I prefer my AL3100 to my dads Gibson Goldtop.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but just to clarify for the viewing public, the solid color/one piece mahogany bodies are primarily attributed only to the 3100 series (at least this week... Rondo/Agile specs are always subject to change).
@guitartec Actually I think you're confused with the one piece mahogany neck, which starts from the al-2900 to the al-4000. The AL-3000, AL-3100, and up...all have solid mahogany 2 piece center jointed bodies. The only differences between the 3000 and the 3100 are the inlay materials and the U.S. braided wiring in the 3100.
The agile cool cat guitar the jazz model is great i have no problem with the stock pick ups there fine i have a fender amp new two 12 speakers and you can't put the volume past 2 this guitar is freaken powerful very versityle with rock jazz country etc.
I am just the average player you are talking about. I do appreciate you not being a Gibson snob. I was talking in my local guitar store and mentioned Agile and gave them the Rondo website.. They used to sell Gibson guitars (before Gibson pulled out) and the poo pooed the Agile saying there is no way an Agile could ever touch a Gibson. I'm gonna shove my Al-3000 down their throat .. when I get all the mods done of course... Thanks for the review, honestly, I'm a bit of a gear nerd..Im geeking out
If you read my comment on my 2nd Agile 3100 (2 of 2) video, I list some basic difference between this guitar and a Gibson LP Custom. There are actually a lot more differences than the ones I list, but the Agile is SOOO much less expensive, it's hard to justify the genuine LP for the average player. Give one a try if you can.
Thanks for the demo! Agile guitars were off my radar until I started seeing reviews all over the guitar forums. Thanks for the in-depth demos here. Love the mods you made. The guitar looks beautiful and well made. Anyway, Happy Holidays, bro!
if you have a fake les paul copy from china or something can you replace the bridge like you did with no problem? or will there be size differences? Thanks
SabbathFan132 2 months ago
@SabbathFan132 It's a complex question you're asking that can only be truthfully answered by knowing what specs to check, then ordering the correct parts. It also depends on several other things, but you CAN probably make the change without too much of a problem.
guitartec 2 months ago
@guitartec Your absolutely right. Here's an Idea, I have an american gibson Sg, in theory I could just take it off and try it on the other guitar and if it doesn't fit no harm done right? If it doe's I guess i could just find out its specs and order another.
SabbathFan132 2 months ago
@SabbathFan132 Gibson bridges have smaller diameter posts compared to most Asian copies. Doing what you said could be used for measurement purposes only if you just rest it over your Chinese bridge, but your Gibson bridge almost definitely will not fit on your Chinese posts. Also, your Gib bridge is probably an ABR-1, which is NOT a great bridge to upgrade to. You want a Gibson "Nashville TOM" or a copy of one. Look up the differences between the two. The Nashville rules!
guitartec 2 months ago
@guitartec I know I should just measure it, but I'm not sure how to go about that.
SabbathFan132 2 months ago
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bluzjamer 2 months ago
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charg2456 5 months ago
how is the neck is it fat like a gibson or thin like a esp schecter or ibanez?
psyckla5 6 months ago
@psyckla5 Well, it's neither, but I'd say it's much more like a Gibson neck. It certainly doesn't have an ESP/Ibanez shredder neck that's got a real flat radius fingerboard, and it doesn't have an asymmetrical profile like a newer Gibson neck. I guess I'd say It's roughly the shape of some of the vintage Gibson Melody Makers or LP Specials I've played, but not as bulky (D shaped). It's real comfortable for most players.
guitartec 6 months ago
@psyckla5 I would say it like a gibson sg with the 60's neck.
BeforeIRwake 5 months ago
beautiful guitar
Deadnsd 7 months ago
not mahagony top but maple AA top ... too bad for you
democheparte 7 months ago
hey the when i set my intonation as normal on the 12 fret...i find notes after the the 12 fret are abit off when fretted.any thoughts?
jesterraj 7 months ago
Is it still for sale. I am interested
flyhi94 8 months ago
@flyhi94 Yes, it just went up for sale in our Medway, MA shop. It has its own showcase! Please call us if interested at 401 352-4653.
guitartec 8 months ago
hows the stock grovers? are they good?
KingofPho75 9 months ago
Thank you so much for all your info! One last question regarding the Earvana. What about the Agile wide necks that are 1-3/4 at the nut. If I were to get a wide neck guitar, does Earvana make a nut wide enough to fit that?
killerdude35 9 months ago
Great video! A couple of questions for you. According to Rondo's website, the AL 2800 models and up come with a 1-5/8" bone nut. Is that the the one you replaced on this guitar or did this model come with the graphite nut? I was just curious if maybe they have made the effort to improve the nut and it's not as necessary to replace. Also, have you ever tried a DiMarzio SD 100 in this guitar? If so, how did it sound?
killerdude35 9 months ago
@killerdude35 When we got our 3100, GraphTec nuts were all they offered. We love bone, so GraphTec Tusq is a 2nd choice. Graphite is brittle & prone to breakage. BTW, We installed an Earvana nut on our axe which is a totally different concept. It's "compensated" & improves how well it plays in tune near the nut. Like Graphtec Tusq, it's a high-press laminate too. The SD-100 is a 2nd choice compared to a Gibson Burst or 498T. SD-100 are a bit "nasely" whereas Gibsons are "dynamic".
guitartec 9 months ago
@guitartec Thanks for your response. One more question. I'm actually looking to purchase an AL-3000. If I wanted to replace the nut on it with an Earvana, which model do I need to get?? Is the one you used the "drop in" Gibson style nut?
killerdude35 9 months ago
@killerdude35 On most Agiles we've installed them on, the 1-11/16" Gibson drop-in seems to work better than the 1-5/8" drop in, (regardless of the Rondo advertised spec). Either way, it's a ton of work to fit an Earvana because the Agile nut shelf is much shallower than a Gibson. You'll need to remove a lot of material from the Earvana. It's by no means a simple procedure.
guitartec 9 months ago
Sorry, how's inferior?
I get 50-100 emails a week on this video and everyone seems to understand my point there. They are genuinely thankful for me drawing attention to the minor negatives. If you're worried what everyone might think of my use of the word cheap, I can tell you that virtually all inquiries we get are by players who appear intelligent enough to see this axe for what it is; a great deal, and they can also see that it's positives outweigh its negatives by a big margin.
guitartec 10 months ago
You ought to find another adjective other than cheap to use. Mother of pearl cheap? Even if it so-called flawed it's a bit much to call it cheap. The bottom line is Gibson is overly priced and these guitars are very reasonable at $400.00. As you clearly demonstrate with a few basic inexpensive upgrades you're still under the price tag of a Gibson studio, and you have at lest the quality of a Standard. The Standard I had wasn't as nice as this guitar, and it was priced at $2200.00 back in 2000.
guitarran 10 months ago
Man, you sound like Seth Rogen haha. Sweet guitar.
NZLeduc 10 months ago 2
@NZLeduc Hey Thanks! Seth stole my voice.
guitartec 10 months ago
@guitartec No problem! Haha that bastard. I think im gonna buy this guitar with a floyd, probably gonna put dimarzio sd (B) and seymour duncan 59(N) though.
NZLeduc 9 months ago
Hi, Great guitar work! I will be moving to RI in near future so now I know there is one aexcellent guitar shop that I can take my guitars to. I also own the 3000M but it is a neck thru model. It came with locking brigde and tail piece, graphite nut.I also did swap few pickups but back to the originals. I did want to ask you what would you recommend for the neck pickup for this guitar? I play mostly with little overdrive, into metheny type single line playing.
taikoking1 11 months ago
@taikoking1 Hi, I don't usually recommend pups as they are too subjective, but Gibsons really do it for me.
I recently did a back-to-back video test with several pups installed in my Agile's lead pos ranging from Dimarzios, Duncans and a Lawrence, to the Agile Anlico V & a Gibson 498T. The 498T won hands down with anyone who watched the video. Unfortunately, utubes 10 minute video cap killed my only copy of the video which was too long. It's now stuck in "My Videos" and is unwatchable.
guitartec 11 months ago
@OakPark11MileRd Sorry, I'm old school. I have Strats for single coil tones, and they do it much better than splitting hb coils imho.
guitartec 1 year ago
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jaydro9 1 year ago
do you loose any brightness without the maple top?
AnOddMusician 1 year ago
ok.but my guitar is buzzing without plug in to amp..It is enough touch little bit string and is starting buzz...
guitarplayer1A 1 year ago
@guitarplayer1A If I understand you, you still need to loosen the truss rod because the neck is too straight. That's why it's buzzing so much. Put a little bow in the neck.
guitartec 1 year ago
it happens when i play fretted notes,every strings are buzzing less buzzing 1st string.
thanks for help...
guitarplayer1A 1 year ago
@guitarplayer1A That's not the nut causing the problem. Your neck is too straight or back bowed. Loosen the truss rod a 1/4 - 1/2 turn.
TIP... STRING BUZZ SHOULD ONLY BE DETERMINED WHEN PLAYED NORMALLY THRU AN AMP ON THE CLEANEST SETTINGS YOU NORMALLY USE. If ALL you use is heavy distortion, buzz is nearly impossible to hear thru the amp. If you do play clean sometimes, set the truss rod with the amp set that way, AND PLAY NORMALLY until the rod adjustment affects the buzz to your liking.
guitartec 1 year ago
my guitar is al 2000 it came with not graph tech nut it is horrible nut.my guitar buzzing and thats why i want to change it...i m thinking how to fix this problem..i need advise
guitarplayer1A 1 year ago
@guitarplayer1A Okay, I thought you had a higher model. If you want to explain the buzzing problem precisely, I may be able to resolve it for you. I need to know if it happens when you play open or fretted notes and which string it is.
guitartec 1 year ago
i find one and it is 74,42 mm from hole to hole..its that i need? other one that i find is graph tech nut blank,it possible to be useful?
guitarplayer1A 1 year ago
@guitarplayer1A Your guitar comes with a Graph Tech nut, so you don't need that nut. The Earvana nut is special, and causes the the guitar to play better in tune (if installed and adjusted properly). The Earvana is an upgrade that has to be installed by someone who knows how to do it or you will get no benefit.
The 74.42mm spacing should work because of the play (slop) in the threads of the height adjusters. You may have to play with it to get it to go on.
guitartec 1 year ago
my agile's neck width is 1 3/4.witch nut and bridge i need?
guitarplayer1A 1 year ago
@guitarplayer1A If you're trying to duplicate my guitar, you'll need a 1-3/4" Earvana shelf nut that fits a Gibson guitar. It will take quite a bit of shaving as the Earvana is designed to fit a deep shelf, and the Agile's shelf is shallow. It's NOT an easy install.
The bridge is a lot easier. You'll need a copy of a Nashville TOM bridge with the large post holes and 74mm center to center post spacing. Consider getting a tech to do the work.
guitartec 1 year ago
What specific model of pickup are you using? Is it a gibson 490t? Because i have an agile 3100 too and Im looking for a pickup that sounds similar to Adam Jones from Tool.. Im really on a tone chase right now...
ezt123dp 1 year ago
@ezt123dp Tone can be an expensive thing to chase. The lead pup is a Gibson 489T, and Imust say the dynamics of the Gibson pup truly exceeded any of the Duncans, Dimarzios, Lawrence, and cheapos we installed in this guitar. This was a blind study we did that allowed instant comparisons between many pups.
guitartec 1 year ago
You sound like paul gilbert and seth organs spawn child. Awesome vids aswell i might sub haha
suckit69er 1 year ago
The switchcraft switch, you using the straight one or the right-angled one?
kizmetx 1 year ago
@kizmetx The right angle SC switch is for SGs and some jazz boxes, so it's the straight. BTW... It is NOT a straight forward install, so know what you're doing.
guitartec 1 year ago
you sound like seth rogen!!!
laorbie 1 year ago
@laorbie I get that a lot.
guitartec 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Just got an epiphone,where did you get the metal outjack cover from ? Also, how do you know what the 'Propper level' for your nut is ?
guitarng 1 year ago
Just got an epiphone,where did you get the metal outjack cover from ?
guitarng 1 year ago
I have the exact same problem with an Indie ocean shape guitar. the intonation is perfect but when I play around the two middle strings on the first few frets it sounds slightly off, its not a huge problem but it is noticeable enough to make a 7 chord sounds sour. I don't think that the nut is dodgy but I am using Ernie ball skinny top heavy bottom strings do you think it is just the strings?
beastlymarshmallow 1 year ago
@beastlymarshmallow Unless your strings are old and funky, it's not the strings. It's more likely a combination of several things, some easily fixable with a good set-up done by a tech with tons of experience. Also, a light playing style may help greatly.
guitartec 1 year ago
@beastlymarshmallow It could be the strings, I was having similar problems and thought it had to with the intonation. My guitar tech just threw some Elixers on and it was perfect... So yeah, try changing your strings first. :)
DavidRayT 1 year ago
Hey, how well does this stay in tune with the stock hardware? And with the pickup selector, can you still get that tremolo sound you can get with the Gibsons or Epis?
punkmusicmetal 1 year ago
that's what's great about these guitars though...even if you decide to spend the extra money to install a new nut, new electronics, new bridge, and maybe even a new set of US-made pups, you're STILL getting a great guitar for well under $600 (for the AL-3100 series. i think the AL2000 series is great too). from a player's perspective, i think these are just such an overall better deal than Epi's now, and are giving a lot of the factory Gibby's a run for their money!
catpee3000 1 year ago
Where in Rhode Island are you located?
forbiddensociety 1 year ago
@forbiddensociety My basement shop is if Coventry, RI. Please let me know if you want some work done.
guitartec 1 year ago
@guitartec Will do :) I like not far from you. I live down in Richmond/Hope Valley.
forbiddensociety 1 year ago
Hello. Can you do me a huge favor.
I'm planning on purchasing an Agile 3100 wide. I guess the nut is 1 3/4 and the bridge string spacing is 1mm wider.
Could you please recommend me which Tonepros Locking set I should get with those specs? And maybe tell me what other things I'll need to order, such as switches and whatnot?
I don't know much about guitar modding, but I figure I could just order the parts and have my local guitar shop do the installation. I just need to know what to order.
thefacelessmonster 1 year ago
@thefacelessmonster I think Tonepros only sells one bridge that will fit the heigh studs on your axe.
guitartec 1 year ago
HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT THE PHYSICAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE AGILE AL-3100 AND A GIBSON LP? If so, I am in the process of doing an in-depth A/B comparison between the two. It covers things like; Nut material, headstock angles, inlays, fretboard and bridge radius, fret dims and crown work, some elec info, woods & finish, plastics, shielding, weight relief, neck profile & tenon info, truss rod info, etc. This is a "Work In Process" comparison, so if you have input, great.
guitartec 1 year ago
hey man! i'm thinking of buying a Al-3000 with the Slim neck. wondering if there's a big tone difference between Slim and regular
store1992 1 year ago
@store1992 Can't imaging there would be any decernable tone difference that could matter, but I've never compared the two. A bit of unsolicited advise; Slim and wide neck Agiles are harder to resell, so be real sure you want to go that route.
Best of luck man
guitartec 1 year ago
I wonder if my bass has a high fret. It buzzes with high action.
imarealgamer 1 year ago
@imarealgamer Generally, heavy fret buzz at only one fret position on the fretboard can indicate a high fret. High action lessens the buzz, but is not the proper cure for it. It just hides it.
Putting the proper relief in the neck and measuring fret height will tell you (or your tech) for sure.
guitartec 1 year ago
The guitar was not designed for that tuning, so I can't tell you with certainty if your specific guitar will need more intonation adjustment than the stock bridge can provide. It may work fine. The ABR-1 bridge (a total POS) should be exchanged out if you have the means. You may want to experiment w/heavier strings if possible
The Earvana nut can only help things even more, if it's installed properly, that is.
guitartec 1 year ago
Glad you're considering the 6 string over the 7.
Guess I'd install a good toggle and jack and consider upgrading to a non-licensed Floyd Rose. The licensed ones tend to be problematical over time.
When you get it, make sure the truss rod works well and the frets are all level.
Good luck, man.
guitartec 1 year ago
loved the video, I am looking to get an "Agile Interceptor Pro 625 EB Black Flame", what modifications if any would you suggest if I do get the guitar?
RedSonRising1 1 year ago
is that a wide or slim?
xXRequiremXx 1 year ago
@xXRequiremXx Neither, it's the regular profile neck.
guitartec 1 year ago
That's cool
guitartec 1 year ago
these guitars are really cool but that cutaway just makes me not buy it
guitarheo3 1 year ago
Perfect video ... excellent information and well explained regarding the bridge and nut mods... thanks. I think it's just a matter of time before I add one of these beauties to my existing LP collection, and these are the mods I now intend to consider.
74blades 1 year ago
So is that ebay $22.99 special : tune-0-matic nashville bridge for a gibson USA that bolts right up? Sorry about all the questions, I've read/
learned a lot from Dan Erlelwines books. But that can only take you so far; watching your videos is a hands-on spin that pics and verbiage cxan't match. Very cool!
170bcuda 1 year ago
@170bcuda Not sure, but sounds right. 74mm post to post should work. Dan talks a lot, but his tricks seem antiquated. He's still clever tough. Funny, I hear he has a Plek machine in his shop. Go figure.
guitartec 1 year ago
Great video! Love the Rondo guitars!
NostalgiaKing 1 year ago
Nice video. Thanks for all the tips. I just bought an AL3100 that I plan on tinkering with. What SG bridge pup did you install?? They come with a variety, 498T, burstbucker, 57 classic, 490 etc etc.
170bcuda 1 year ago
We installed a 498T we had laying around. We also installed 5 other pups and did a controlled video comparison of them all. Unfortunately, the video was too long, so we couldn't upload it. However, everyone here who watched that video agreed that the 498T was the clear winner. All the others (Super Dist, Lawrence L500, 2 Duncans, and the Agile OEM, all sounded bland except the Gibson, which stood out tone-wise. The output also seemed as hot as the hottest pup.
guitartec 1 year ago
@guitartec thanks for the quick response. I always liked the 498T, some folks don't. I think that 498T, 490R gave the SG that driving rock tone.
That earvana nut looks very interesting, never heard of that brand before. Funny, I have all those same pups you mentioned layin around from project guitars, in one shape or form :-)
170bcuda 1 year ago
You should try a bunch of pups in the guitar you normally play. It's the ONLY way, in my book, to choose pups. Opinions or catalogs stink.
The Earvana cures sharp notes caused by too much finger pressure and set-up issues. It' seems best with reg lt gauge 10-46 strings. We use 11-49s and the D is just a tad flat in the 2nd position. Overall, though, our axe plays in tune much better over the entire scale length.
guitartec 1 year ago
Do you think this guitar will last a long time? I don't really plan on playing live as I am a hobbyist but I want a damn solid guitar that will last me until I am old.
Thanks for the video insight.
Maxpound 1 year ago
@Maxpound If you take care of anything properly, it should outlast you. If you drop your guitar, freeze and boil it, or lend it to friends, well, then, no. Sorry for the cold, dry answer, but this is the only truthful answer I have.
guitartec 1 year ago
@guitartec Well I appreciate the answer. I'm just kinda weary of buying a guitar and then outgrowing it because of the sound or growing irritated of the intonation(I have one guitar that has had fret buzz ever since I had it regardless of how it was set up.) again thanks for the response.
Maxpound 1 year ago
@Maxpound My guess is your taste in guitars will change before you could ever wear the guitar out. Intonation and fret buzz can easily and inexpensively be fixed with a simple fret dressing (a fret leveling and re-crowning), so in my book, they're not reasons to dislike a guitar. The Agile LPs are good straight ahead instruments for the money (which incidentally, may need a fret dressing right out of the box), but all the pieces are there for a killer guitar. The next step in LPs are big $
guitartec 1 year ago
You may be getting confused with Epiphone which uses Korean-made switches and jacks. They're utter junk. Gibson has always used Switchcraft switches and jacks. They are the best you can buy.
guitartec 1 year ago
i wouldn't say gibson les paul would be well known for their switches or jacks
rgjmce666 1 year ago
what jack plate do you use? I bought one that claimed it would fit on Lp or anything like it but it didnt.
Thanks
Corey273 1 year ago
@Corey273 A standard square LP metal jack plate that has a slight bend so it can contour the side of the body. The plate should be perfectly square, not a rectangle. If there's poor hole alignment, chalk it up to poor design. It can be easily fixed by properly filling the hole(s) and re-drilling. TIP: Make sure the cord plugs in smoothly into the jack after installation. Sometimes the jack's two wires get in the way, thus binding the plug.
guitartec 1 year ago
I just got a 3125. It's 2 pounds lighter do to them cutting out chambers in the body.
Yeah the bridge can go and the nut is cut too low on mine.
I have a great tech who can do the mods, and thanks for the tip on the brand for the nut.
Btw, this is my 4th agile, and I'm sold on these guitars.
Outstanding quality per dollar spent.
Turtlehands 1 year ago
My Agile had awesome frets. I love the stock pups too. I just wish they weren't so well potted so I could coil tap 'em! haha I did have a wiring issue though, the stock caps were shorted out so I shot 'em an email and they sent me a very nice wiring harness with cloth wires for free! Great great great guitar. (Mines an AS-820 though)
LeviMan2001 1 year ago
Comment removed
carvinx 1 year ago
The TonePro will probably fit. Just make sure you get the bridge with the correct size stud holes.
I have inexpensive replacement gold Nashville-style bridges (China-made) for sale that fit the stock Agile bridge studs. $35.usd +s/h. Definitely an upgrade from the stock China ABR-1 that comes stock on most Agiles.
guitartec 1 year ago
@guitartec may take you up on that bridge, if I cant find something local
carvinx 1 year ago
IMHO... Pay a pro or begin monkeyin'.
Takes about 30 years for most techs to really get a good idea of what's going on, but the kids usually think they knew it all yesterday. Find an old tech who needs a son.
Sorry bout the smart-ass answer, but it's the truth no one wants to hear.
guitartec 1 year ago
Lets say You want to do everything you did but are not a Guitar tech and dont want to monkey around with the guitar in fear of fucking something up. Where would you go for help
nignogluvin1 1 year ago
I bet Rondo starts putting TonePro bridges or Nashville style bridges on all their higher line LPs soon. Congrats on your mods man!
guitartec 1 year ago
SHORT ANSWER; The stock tailpiece is fine.
LONG ANSWER; I think if I were going to replace it, I would install either a TonePro locking style tp or an aluminum one in gold, but it's really not necessary as they're both real expensive.There's bigger problems to worry about than what's happening after the bridge. And if it were really a big deal, everyone would be talking about sonically resonant tuner posts as well. Put your dough towards more important things.
guitartec 1 year ago
@guitartec Thanks man, I put in a Gotoh bridge in addition to my SD pickups, and this thing just sings now. You're completely right, the stock bridge was total crap (realized it even more once I put in a decent replacement one).
OneLoveJK 1 year ago
I noticed you upgraded the bridge, which is what I'm thinking of doing too. But is it necessary to also upgrade the tail piece, or is that just a waste of money?
pcgamerjoe 1 year ago
You're like the 3rd person to tell me that. Wish I knew who he was.
guitartec 1 year ago
Kinda off topic but you sound like Seth Rogen!
d52290 1 year ago
@d52290 lol so true...only less goofy
pcgamerjoe 1 year ago
Are you asking how the Earvana nut specifically affects the guitar as a whole, or the principals behind a normal (non-compensated) nut?
The Earvana is a very unique type of nut that is designed to help with typical problems associated with too much finger pressure and tall frets in the first few playing positions.
guitartec 1 year ago
I am very new at the guitar business right now :P Could you explain how the nut effects the whole guitar as a whole?
CADETINATORT1000 1 year ago
I recently purchased a Agile AL2000. Would you be able to mod that out too?
phleb1968 1 year ago
Yes, no problem. Call us at 401 352-4653 with the mods you want done.
Dean
guitartec 1 year ago
This, along with the availability of wide-necks on some models, is the precise reason that I buy Agile guitars. I'm inclined to heavily mod any guitar that I buy... but with Gibsons and American Made Fenders, I won't touch them for fear of affecting the resale value. With an Agile, I'm emboldened to go wild (Jimmy Page wiring, ramping-down the frets, bone nut etc...)
I like Schaller roller bridges though... the one where you can adjust the width string spacing. Wider is better!
Hoopermazing 1 year ago
It was about $50-$65. Some things were free, like the pickup bindings and pickups.
guitartec 1 year ago
how much did all your fixed cost in total?
dragnmastr521 1 year ago
The stock bridge is fine for intonation. I play in Dropped B and A sometimes and have it intonated perfectly. Otherwise great review and advice.
magazinedude2002 1 year ago
Thanks! We don't disagree and we also don't suggest you should do anything to your guitar. This is simply what we did to this guitar to make it more like a Gibson LP Custom.
Thanks again.
guitartec 1 year ago
What brand is the bridge that you replaced?
ziggy293 1 year ago
Hey, getartec
Seems like you had to do an awful lot of work on that Agile... and swapped out a lot of components... how would you rate it out of box? Assuming as soon as you got it in your hands you gave it a basic, plain jane setup...was it at least accceptable?
drksd4848 1 year ago
Not at all. I did most of this stuff out of preference, not necessity. Out of the box, many Asian-made instruments lack one important thing; a great set-up. Agiles are better than most, but they're not perfect. I guess that's why so many people send their Agiles to me for a better set-up. Even so, many are good right out of the box.
guitartec 1 year ago
My AL3100 was setup amazing perfect for a shredder. The sound's not quite as hot as i would like, but they definitely get the job done. You won't regret getting one. I prefer my AL3100 to my dads Gibson Goldtop.
magazinedude2002 1 year ago
The solid colors have sold bodies, 2 piece center jointed not top, back and top is same piece.
TheMercenaryArtist 2 years ago
Thanks for the info!
Correct me if I'm wrong, but just to clarify for the viewing public, the solid color/one piece mahogany bodies are primarily attributed only to the 3100 series (at least this week... Rondo/Agile specs are always subject to change).
guitartec 2 years ago
all solid color agiles are and some two tone burst have mahogany tops, even the 2000s.
TheMercenaryArtist 1 year ago
@guitartec Actually I think you're confused with the one piece mahogany neck, which starts from the al-2900 to the al-4000. The AL-3000, AL-3100, and up...all have solid mahogany 2 piece center jointed bodies. The only differences between the 3000 and the 3100 are the inlay materials and the U.S. braided wiring in the 3100.
zakkyrawd 1 year ago
that is the coolest cat ever
jakenfriedlove 2 years ago
Wow. Have an AL 3100 being shipped to me now, will definitely try that Earvana nut for it! From the way you describe it, makes a huge difference!
monkymonk6 2 years ago
The agile cool cat guitar the jazz model is great i have no problem with the stock pick ups there fine i have a fender amp new two 12 speakers and you can't put the volume past 2 this guitar is freaken powerful very versityle with rock jazz country etc.
travelinman617 2 years ago
I am just the average player you are talking about. I do appreciate you not being a Gibson snob. I was talking in my local guitar store and mentioned Agile and gave them the Rondo website.. They used to sell Gibson guitars (before Gibson pulled out) and the poo pooed the Agile saying there is no way an Agile could ever touch a Gibson. I'm gonna shove my Al-3000 down their throat .. when I get all the mods done of course... Thanks for the review, honestly, I'm a bit of a gear nerd..Im geeking out
TheSuckatash 2 years ago
i feel ya dude, there guitars are top notch. i would never buy a 4,000 dollar gibson. and ive been playing pretty professionally for 5 years
Rowburt51088 2 years ago 2
Great video, I'm gonna do these mods to my own Agile. I'm not sure if you mentioned these, but how are the strap buttons?
qmn201 2 years ago
Thanks! The strap buttons are the typical cheapies, but work fine.
guitartec 2 years ago
Great review!
kennosen1 2 years ago
Thanks! I really appreciate that.
guitartec 2 years ago
I have yet to try a agile al! that 3100 looks wonderful though!
EyeKnowYou123 2 years ago
If you read my comment on my 2nd Agile 3100 (2 of 2) video, I list some basic difference between this guitar and a Gibson LP Custom. There are actually a lot more differences than the ones I list, but the Agile is SOOO much less expensive, it's hard to justify the genuine LP for the average player. Give one a try if you can.
guitartec 2 years ago
what model Earvana nut did you put in??
ErolTeVe 2 years ago
Informative. Thank you.
diz52nd 2 years ago
Thanks for the demo! Agile guitars were off my radar until I started seeing reviews all over the guitar forums. Thanks for the in-depth demos here. Love the mods you made. The guitar looks beautiful and well made. Anyway, Happy Holidays, bro!
bobbyswamp 2 years ago
Thanks! If you get one, I hope you enjoy it.
guitartec 2 years ago
Thanks! Hope it's helpful.
guitartec 2 years ago
good video
guitarheo3 2 years ago