Question Why are the Petrucci backplates no longer recessed?

[DaPatrooch]

I'm pretty close to getting a JP6. I've saved a ton of money, and graduation is next week. I've been looking around websites to order one, but I noticed that the backplates on the Petruccis are now textured plastic, but aren't recessed like they previously were. So my question is: why is this? The textured plastic is cool, but I think we can all agree that recessed backplates are better because they help to maintain a more sleek design. I might just end up trying to get a somewhat "older" model, as long as it has the D Sonic. It's the little things that bother me Does anyone else really notice a big difference?

While I'm on the subject, what are some good places to deal with? Since I'll probably go for one with the older backplates, what are some good places with lots of JPs already in stock?

And another thing: I can't decide what color to get. I'm leaning toward Graphite Pearl, but I've really been liking Candy Red and Egyptian Smoke lately. Pics, advice, whatever, it's all good!

Thanks.

 

[PeteDuBaldo]

The tremolo covers on the JP were never recessed, while both the cover for the piezo toggle and the cover for the electronics cavity were. The new covers are metallic (hard) with a textured finish, and are thinner than the original plastic ones.

I view the new plates as an upgrade, not to mention it probably helps in production.

The same style plate has been used on the Bongo bass since day 1 if I remember correctly.

 

[leftyguitarblue]

I'm pretty close to getting a JP6. I've saved a ton of money, and graduation is next week. I've been looking around websites to order one, but I noticed that the backplates on the Petruccis are now textured plastic, but aren't recessed like they previously were. So my question is: why is this? The textured plastic is cool, but I think we can all agree that recessed backplates are better because they help to maintain a more sleek design. I might just end up trying to get a somewhat "older" model, as long as it has the D Sonic. It's the little things that bother me Does anyone else really notice a big difference?

While I'm on the subject, what are some good places to deal with? Since I'll probably go for one with the older backplates, what are some good places with lots of JPs already in stock?

And another thing: I can't decide what color to get. I'm leaning toward Graphite Pearl, but I've really been liking Candy Red and Egyptian Smoke lately. Pics, advice, whatever, it's all good!

Thanks.

pssstttt....look up ^

 

[SteveB]

The tremolo covers on the JP were never recessed

+1. I have a pre-DSonic, pre-compensated nut JP6 and the trem plate is not recessed.

 

[whitestrat]

The tremolo covers on the JP were never recessed, while both the cover for the piezo toggle and the cover for the electronics cavity were.

...thats...what I thought...

 

[MusicManJP6]

Don't worry about the covers dude! Those are minuscule compared to the rest of the guitar's perfect design. Graphite Pearl is an awesome color. Get it - you won't be sorry!

 

[roburado]

If you want the backplate to be more flush with the body, well, you'd best get a newer JP instead of an older one. The new backplate is thinner than the old one. If the old pickup is more important to you, well...get an old JP.

Oops...Pete beat me to the statement that the new backplates are thinner.

 

[Lou]

My guess is that if the plate was recessed it would interfere with the trem block.

 

[DaPatrooch]

I knew the trem backplate was never recessed, I meant the plates covering the electronics cavity and the piezo switch cavity. My mistake, I didn't say that in my post... But anyway, thanks for the replies. I guess I'm just worrying too much, it's probably nothing. I'd rather have the D Sonic, and I have my eye on a Graphite Pearl JP6 on Bass Central. I believe at the time they got it in, it was when JP was using 9's, so that's a bonus!

 

[dannymusic]

the new ones are an upgrade. I've had both

 

[Octavarius]

I'd look at them as an upgrade.

Old:

New:

 

[MusicManJP6]

Good post, Octavarius! I agree that they are upgrades. Much thinner indeed.

 

[DaPatrooch]

Thanks for the post Octavarius! I didn't realize how thin the new back plates are.

Even the backs of the guitars look amazing! I've really been loving Blue Dawn lately...

 

[73h Nils]

Graphite Pearl is smokin'! ALthough, Candy Red is not a popular colour on a JP and that would make yours more unique (and amazing, considering that's a sick colour!

 

[leecs]

I never use the backplate. i left it bare open. Easier to clean & change strings. & it changes the tone. (Sounds familiar, where have i heard it from? haha)

 

[MusicManJP6]

Changes the tone?!

 

[Tim O'Sullivan]

Changes the tone?!

The same way re guitars always sound better!

 

[beachjammer]

I didn't know that the new JP guitars had non-recessed control and piezo switch covers. While I think the thinner metal covers are a definate + , after seeing the pics of both, I perfer the recessed ones that are on my older models even if they are plastic.

 

[Mincer]

I always thought it would be a good idea to use magnets, like some companies for the back plates. Hey, maybe even for pickguards on some models!

 

[Mick]

Faster back routing without recessed plates. And the metal ones are more durable.
Imagine if you mount the with a tremel or makita during the building process, and how many plastic ones break when you are not careful.
All in all it´s an upgrade for the better.