ax3 vs ax4

[calvin]

Wasn't seeing -- what's the difference between these?

Also, would this be a good versatile guitar for fairly new guitarist? Had been playing a couple years but that was years ago. Got out of it and was looking to pick it up again. At this point interested in all types of music, including fingerstyle blues and slide. Not sure if this would be the best guitar for those kinds of music.

Neck felt narrower then the squier guitar I had been using in the past, but it looks like it's the same 1-5/8" as any fender guitar.

Really liked the overall feel of the guitar though.

 

[Slater]

The difference is the bridge (and nut). The ax3 has a "vintage" trem bridge, and the ax4 has a double locking "floyd rose" bridge.

 

[calvin]

okay, see that now, the tremo vs double tremo. Either better than the other, or just different configuration.

Wasn't seeing anything on the nut. Looked like both were 42 mm.

 

[TripHazard]

The floyd will have a locking nut. Choice depends on how much you want to dive bomb the hell out of it. Heavy trem user might want to go AX4

 

[vhMcG]

I've owned several of the Sterling AX40 guitars, and recently bought my first Sub AX4 in trans red.
Apart from the wiring being faulty (only 1 position on the 5 way switch was producing output/sound), they look and feel great.

Huge bargain for the features and feel you get, compared to the cost.
I'm looking to upgrade the chrome plated tuning heads for white pearloid ones, like the AX40 and AXIS guitars have. Are these for sale anywhere?

 

[calvin]

thanks for the replies

 

[calvin]

so, the ax4 was pretty comparable to the ax40? Seen that every once in a while these go on sale, and was thinking maybe I'd se what memorial day held. Was the neck width the same on both?

 

[SBMM]

AX4 has a graphic top, which is an image. AX40D has a figured/quilted Maple top with genuine DiMarzio "Axis" pickups.

 

[calvin]

thanks brian. that helps. might see if any sales are coming up this coming weekend otherwise will probably just go with the ax3 or 4.

 

[vhMcG]

I'd love to see the Sterling by Musicman line come with custom shop options!
Finishes/colors, pearloid tuning heads (as I mentioned above), fret wire size, bridge upgrades, etc.

I know that aftermarket upgrades are pretty much the norm, yet I'd rather have jumbo frets come stock on an AX40, than drop an extra $400.00 to do a re-fret... For example.

And where's the trans green quilts on the AX line? Those are coveted on EVH's original EBMM and even Peavey guitars...

 

[vhMcG]

Only one position on the 5 way selector is working, on my Sterling Sub AX4.
Is there anyone who can show or send me a wiring diagram for this model?

Also, what are some possible remedies for the high E being too close to the edge of the neck? Constantly slipping off while playing normally, and having the string "fret out" on the sides. It's an issue along the entire length of the string, from the nut to the neck heel...

 

[Slater]

Also, what are some possible remedies for the high E being too close to the edge of the neck? Constantly slipping off while playing normally, and having the string "fret out" on the sides. It's an issue along the entire length of the string, from the nut to the neck heel...

This video has been posted a few times on this forum. Check it out...

 

[Chemical Instinct]

AX4 has a graphic top, which is an image. AX40D has a figured/quilted Maple top with genuine DiMarzio "Dr Axis" pickups.

I know this is a bit off topic but I could use a lil help SBMM.

I bought a S.U.B. guitar which I believe to be a AX4 from 2016ish. I can’t seem to find the year or the model for certain.

Can you help.