JPXII 6/7 with Lighter Gauge Strings?

[Etudica]

I'm about to purchase either a JPXII 6 or a JPXII 7 and realize that they both come stock with 10s at this time. Is there any downside to switching over to 9s on either of these as long as I reset the action properly afterwards? I assume setting up the 6 with 9s would be fairly simple and straightforward, but what about the 7? I have never owned a 7 before so not sure if they are more or less sensitive to changes in string gauges from factory.

I've done plenty of research but couldn't find a clear answer on this regarding the JP series specifically.

And before the question is asked "why 9s", my main axes for the last 10 years have been Ibanez JEMs, all setup with 9s, and it's just what I'm most comfortable with. Also, I don't use hybrid sets, standard super slinkys only.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Lou]

No differnt procedure on a 7 vs. a 6 string. You're going to have to do a truss rod adjustment and the bridge leveling dance, then set your action and intonate.

 

[DrKev]

The seven won't be any different to the 6, you'll have the same things to look at.

As I like to say, it's guitars, not rocket science. With either 6 or 7 strings, you'll have to loosen the trem claw to get the bridge back to level (the dance of adjust, re-tune, adjust, re-tune, until you're happy) and then you'll probably need to adjust the truss rod (in this case, dropping a gauge you'll need to loosen, i.e. turn to the left, see photo in my profile) though if you are happy with the action and fret buzz isn't a problem, leave it be. Intonation may need resetting too.

JP preferred 9s for a while on the 6s. In general the guitars leave the factory strung with whatever he preferred at the time. No reason why you can't have 9s on a 7-string. It's a matter of finding the right set up.

 

[Etudica]

Thanks Lou for confirming my suspicions. I have been leaning toward the 7 with 9-52 strings.

For setup, any specific order as far as which to adjust first after restringing with 9s? truss or bridge? I'm fairly competent but have never worked on a music man before, only JEMs which can be a PITA. I have heard great things about the EBMM bridges and ease of setup.

 

[Etudica]

Thanks Kev for the additional setup notes. I will start by setting the bridge, then neck, then intonation. Just wanted to be sure I will be 100% happy with this new purchase!

 

[DrKev]

Yep, that's the way. Bridge first because the action will change as the saddles move with the bridge angle. Get the bridge set back to parallel with the top when you're in tune (just like jem really, only easier). Then truss rod, adjust so that action is comfortable and fret buzz isn't intrusive.

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