Originally Posted by: CSchlegelBut existing evidence from Ibanez states they were made from ash but the finish was called "Korina finish".

I priced out the mahogany neck and with only a couple enhancements from the base model and it gets up to $368 with Shipping & Taxes.

Since I don't believe there is any sort of alchemy or magic involved, I'm going to learn to build one of these, too. I fully expect to screw up my first attempt in one way or another, so I will probably price out what's economical to start with, which is probably maple. On my list is a trip to the Exotic Wood store I am told exists somewhere in the city.

I think this is actually a good turn out in a way. As a bolt-on design, I can change it out later and it gives me an opportunity to compare the sound the different neck woods make. I can test all the assertions I've been reading with my own ear. :)

The Destroyer was ash, but I'm sticking with the mahogany body for now as per the Explorer. Especially with the (expected) maple neck, it might turn out to be a nice combo. Then with that experience under my belt, I will try building a mahogany neck. (The weight shouldn't be an issue as I'm sitting most of the time. I am anticipating this design will push the whole guitar to the left as I hold it which will make it easier to get at the top frets in a sitting position.)

As you pointed out, there are so many variables between me and EVH's sound that I can't really expect to achieve it in the end.

In the meantime, I'm still waiting for my plans from guitargranny.com. Not an abnormal time for snail mail sometimes, but I already received a new Stew-Mac mag that I ordered days later. I emailed him and he assured me it was being sent.

Also ordered this book http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/Make-Your-Own-Electric-Guitar-Melvyn-Hiscock-Brian-May/9780953104901-item.html?ref=Search+Books%3a+%2527melvyn+hiscock%2527 which was highly recommended on another site.

Well, don't want to clutter this up with more thoughts on what will be. I will post next when have something that IS. :) Thanks again for your thoughtful input.