Why is a Ranger Custom better than a Strat

[Joe Niszczak]

I bought a Ranger Custom on e-Bay and was told it is from the late 80's, pre-Rio Grande. The guitar is in great shape but I am having a tough time adjusting to the non-typical pickup format. I am a new player and very used to having Strats jammed down my throat in Guitar Center and the like. I would appreciate opinions from Ranger owners as to why I should keep it to play blues as opposed to trading it for a Strat.

[Scott S]

Number one, it's a Robin, the build quality is no doubt far superior to the build quality of a typical usa strat ( unless you're planning on buying a custom shop strat). I think with a little playing you'll get used to the pickup system on the Ranger.

[John Williams]

Hey Joe,in my opinion the Robin gives you a distinct advantage over the carbon copy,cookie cutter,boring wannabee bluesmen? that all play strats because someone else did.i.e.(Clapton,SRV,Hendrix)etc.Although there is really nothing wrong with a good strat,I challenge you to rise above the pack,and develop a tone of your own that only a Robin can help you to achieve.Don't look upon the pickup configuration as a problem,look at it as a challenge to better yourself at your craft,and use it to your advantage.I have been a lead guitarist in a blues band for 16 years now,and can tell you that you need to be your own man,and one way to start is to find the right equiptment.I'd say that your over half way there with the Robin.Keep Bluesin' Big John

[Joe Niszczak]

Thanks for the info fellows. Would either of you care to suggest a good pickup alignment since this guitar does not have Rio Grandes in it? I was thinking Fender Texas Specials in the bridge and mid but am unsure about a compliment for the neck.

[John Williams]

My suggestion would be to call your local friendly Robin dealer(Joyful Noise Music)about getting Rio Grande pickups for it.The difference would be dramatic,and almost like getting a new guitar all over again tonally.1-440-632-1663 Ask for John

[Smitty]

I have never heard of anyone switching from Texas Specials to Rio Grandes and then switching back to Texas Specials. The best thing about the PartStrat I bought with Texas Specials is that the pickups were still worth $100/set. Dropped in a Rio Grande Big Bottom set and brought the guitar to life.

Smitty

[Scott S]

I'd check into getting some Rio Grandes if I were you. There are a few guys here who could give you a solid recomendation.

[David W Smith]

Hello guys, Many thanks to Robin guitars for their tour today.This was my second in the last week and a half.Dave, thanks for the info on the upcoming Fender style Rio Grande humbuckers I will be watching for them.My 72 reissue Tele Thinline my be one of the first to try them out.Thanks again to Allen for a great and informational tour.Keep up the good work.