Fender Strat or Ibanez Prestige

[Tjiaherr]

I'm thinking of either getting either the American Vintage ‘62 Strat or an Ibanez RG2550MZ Prestige. I play a pretty wide range of music (metal, blues, rock 'n' roll) so i was thinking that that the Fender would be more suitable. However, i'm afraid that i won't be able to maximize the use of the tremolo with the strat. I know that with some guitars excessive use of the tremolo will make the tuning run really fast. I've jammed out on an Ibanez before and was super impressed by the tremolo system.

Anyway, the tremolo was basically my main concern. What do you guys think???? I've always loved fender but i don't mind a change. I need help weighing out the pros and cons basically between high-end ibanez and fender models.

Thanks!

[RickBlacker]

Which one sings to you?

[Douglas Showalter]

Honestly, you are talking two different guitars here. Both are equally useful, and yes the tremolo systems are completely different. If you don't mind the maitenance of the Ibanez, I feel those are great systems and while they take a little getting used too; they are really great for whammy bar use and for staying in tune. Changing strings and some extended work are involved, but if you do it right it is well worth it.

The strat will come in handy for other things, but in a metal context I don't feel that is a good choice (assuming you are using all single coils.) If you are looking for diversity, I would go with the Ibanez for the time being, and perhaps work to own both if you are able to really make yourself diverse. Good luck and let me know if you have any more questions.