The duncan designed pickups definately have THE OUTPUT. This is a good thing. However I find the tonal contrasts between the various bridge/neck positions somewhat lacking for my taste. I play blues and gospel. By raising the bridge pickup to about 3/32 of an inch from the strings, the middle pickup considerably lower and the neck pickup somewhere in between and lowered on the 4th,5th,and 6th string, I was able to remedy this to my satisfaction. My middle position is used for rhythm or when I need to "lay down". The other positions give me the boost for solo's or when the dynamic of a song calls it.

Considering the cost range of this instrument the hardware is above average. I would have prefered that it come with 5 springs instead of 3. By reposition the 3 springs, one up the middle and one on each of the extreme side, I am able to use my stick to satisfaction. I keep it set up for down pitch only. There is some string slippage, but it is minimal and within my ability to control onstage.

This guitar has excellent quality control. No blemishes. Hardware was locked down tight. I particularly like the oversized strap buttons. The only change I will make to my JX10 will be the addition of Sperzel locking machine heads. I have used this guitar onstage without my usual backup guitar and felt totally comfortable doing so. The transparent blue/flame maple veneer finish of my guitar is of a high quality.

I contacted Seymor Duncan for information on the stock Duncan Designed pickups. They were kind and extremly helpful. The Jackson website is also very informative. Though I feel they could do without the soft porn of Jenna Jameson.

This guitar is pleasing to the eye. I like the pointed headstock. The transparent blue is identical to that of one of my stage suits. ( Big selling point!)

Primarily Gospel. Still love to play the blues. Rock n Roll in my younger days.