Anyone here ever try a Sterling AX-40d?

[charvelstrat81]

I have been wanting a EBMM axis for a while now but even used they go for at least a grand.
Most i can spend is $500 and there is no way a EBMM axis can be had for that.
anyway these AX-40D's are essentially the same basic guitar(basswood body,locking trem,custom wound dimarzio's,maple neck/FB) and i can get one used for $450 in ruby red burst,
http://www.sterlingbymusicman.com/ax-gu ... 40d-series
Not a real lot online in terms of user reviews of these,remember the one i am asking about is NOT
the first editions of these.
The ones that have the custom dimarzio's are updated with better
hardware and are said to be better overall in build than the originals.

 

[the rossness]

My axis has been my go-to guitar for quite a while. I've played all the Sterling guitars. In terms of Sterling > EBMM, the most accurate of all the sterling's is the Luke. Then the axis, then the JP, then the shillouette. Having said that, the AX40 is a good guitar, but its no axis. When I wanted a cheaper axis, I got on old OLP MM1 and I put a TremKing tremolo system in it. I liked mine more than the AX40 and it cost a total of $250. If you don't have to have a trem, I'd check out an EVH Wolfgang Stoptail. They Start at about $450 and are fantastic guitars. You can also get an Axis Sport for under a grand (used) all day long.

 

[charvelstrat81]

My axis has been my go-to guitar for quite a while. I've played all the Sterling guitars. In terms of Sterling > EBMM, the most accurate of all the sterling's is the Luke. Then the axis, then the JP, then the shillouette. Having said that, the AX40 is a good guitar, but its no axis. When I wanted a cheaper axis, I got on old OLP MM1 and I put a TremKing tremolo system in it. I liked mine more than the AX40 and it cost a total of $250. If you don't have to have a trem, I'd check out an EVH Wolfgang Stoptail. They Start at about $450 and are fantastic guitars. You can also get an Axis Sport for under a grand (used) all day long.

Yeah i need the floyd so i decided my best bet is to save another $500 and get the EBMM axis.
They really are one of a kind in feel and tone.
The AX-40 is probably nice but for half of what i can get a EBMM axis for used
There is no comparison.
IF the AX-40 was $300 i would grab it but for $450 it is not worth it afterall.

 

[mystixboi]

I don't know. I've owned both and the ax40 stands on its own really well. Great player and sounds awesome. Might be worth it... Especially on the used market

 

[audiomidijace]

I've been upgrading OLP MM1 guitars in to pro instruments for the last 7 years. I was really excited for these to come out. I bought one, upgraded everything (pickups, nut, bridge, wiring, etc) had the frets dressed and set up for me. It was ASS compared to the OLP. I sold it the next day. That being said, I like my OLPs better than the Music Man guitars. Those necks just feel better to me.

 

[the rossness]

I've been upgrading OLP MM1 guitars in to pro instruments for the last 7 years. I was really excited for these to come out. I bought one, upgraded everything (pickups, nut, bridge, wiring, etc) had the frets dressed and set up for me. It was ASS compared to the OLP. I sold it the next day. That being said, I like my OLPs better than the Music Man guitars. Those necks just feel better to me.

If you want a MM1 neck pickup, let me know.

 

[charvelstrat81]

I've been upgrading OLP MM1 guitars in to pro instruments for the last 7 years. I was really excited for these to come out. I bought one, upgraded everything (pickups, nut, bridge, wiring, etc) had the frets dressed and set up for me. It was ASS compared to the OLP. I sold it the next day. That being said, I like my OLPs better than the Music Man guitars. Those necks just feel better to me.

Am i understanding you right? you are sayin that you think a OLP MM1 is better than a Music Man axis? Above you said MUSIC MAN guitars? Sterling is NOT a Music man at all.
To each his own but the EBMM axis guitars i have played annihilated the OLP MM1's that i played/owned.
The EBMM was better in every area,build,tone.feel,looks,etc.
Now if you meant the STERLING ax 40 vs a OLP MM1 that is a little more believable.

 

[DrugDM]

I have tried and not anything close to a real Music Man but for a starter guitar or a backup not bad if properly setup which is the intent. The pickups and construction is fine. The hardware is a bit suspect IMHO especially the trem. That can be changed out for a GOTOH for pretty cheap.