Artist ART400 etc.

[Joeobrien]

Anyone know how the Artist series guitars compare with PRS SE?  Or even a current LP Studio?  Plus, is it worth changing the LoZ pickups to EMGs?  Anyone done this?  I already have an Ibanez (SA260FM) and it is a great guitar, but I want a set-in neck, long sustain model.  Would like to stay with Ibanez if there is a suitable axe.

[aliensporebomb]

As far as comparing it with a PRS SE:

-A PRS SE is a flat top guitar with P90s, an Ibanez Artist is an arch-top
 instrument with humbuckers typically.

-Tonally, the sound in my ears is somewhere in between an SG and that of a
  Les Paul - I think it sounds brighter than most Les Pauls but maybe not as
  thin as an SG - in other words, it's got some of the SG brightness but the
  growl, body and long sustain of an LP.

-Regarding pickups..  It's all personal preference. 

[Joeobrien]

Thanks for this.  It's never easy assessing the subtle differences between one guitar and another when they are essentially similar construction.  I've ended up buying the Gibson Vintage Mahogany with Burstbucker Pros.  It's great value and has a seriously nice tone as you would expect.  I tried the ART guitar and the PRS SE at Guitar Center and both are good - but I guess I played safe buying the Gibson.  It's not lacquered and has a satin finish which might not be everyone's choice but at $840 its well worth it.

[dave_g]

Joe...You cannot beat the BB Pro's-great pickups !

[touch of grey]

Anyone out there that's played the art400 hat has an opinion on it's sound and feel? Thanks.