Roadstar Corner Q&A

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Author Message   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Wednesday, March 07, 2001 - 3:24 pm:    Hey folks, I'm starting this thread for anyone with questions or info to share concerning the Roadstar series. While this series isn't the most "collectable" (yet) of the Ibanez line, they are excellent players guitars. I have 4 Roadstars currently and a lot of information to share. At the same time there's an awful lot of things I don't know/can't figure out. Let's see if we can help each other out and maybe recruit some new fans. And maybe somebody can FINALLY lead me to a 1983 RS1400 to replace the one that was stolen from me! I have the '83/'84 and '86 catalogs for reference. If anybody has spare copies of the '85 and '87 catalogs lemme know! Also any of the Roadstar supplements/flyers. I'll pay cash. Thanx Steve   chris s (Ccs) Posted on Friday, March 30, 2001 - 5:24 pm:    I'll throw in the first question.Yesterday I picked up my first Roadstar,this '83RS315MS. Being my first real step out of the 70's Ibanez and into the 80's I can't believe I've walked by them for so long.Although getting it for $100 is the real reason I took the chance.Somewhere down the road someone added a lock nut and Floyd Rose.What was the original trem on this model?And from a players point of view,not a collectors,would it be worth trying to find one and restore it or were they pretty cheesy?I'm not up on that whole 80's trem movement so any advice would be great.Now,I think I only need 7346 more models to complete the collection.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Friday, March 30, 2001 - 9:11 pm:    Chris, Heck of a deal! The original trem was a HardRock'R. Unless there's a problem with Floyd, play it! Given the current market value, I'd leave it alone. The RS315's were available in two finishes. Obviously you've got the blue one. The other was red. FYI, the pick-up is an original V2. Steve PS. I know have 5 Roadstars... Where will it end?   Timo Posted on Saturday, March 31, 2001 - 3:22 am:    FYI Chris, the MS at the end of your model name stands for "Marine Sunburst".   GRAHAM LEES (Graham) Posted on Saturday, March 31, 2001 - 1:18 pm:    Hi, Just to throw my tuppence worth in as a proud Roadstar owner...I too have a '83 RS315, and it is easily the nicest looking and sounding guitar I ever owned, it is also the cheapest ! I've started to notice that Roadstar prices in the UK are rising considerably - coolectibility beckons... Just a small note - I saw an RS315 advertised on EBAY in purple burst a while ago - looked stunning, have never seen this colour variation in the flesh though. My search for an Roadstar hardtail continues... Cheers Graham   chris s (Ccs) Posted on Saturday, March 31, 2001 - 5:04 pm:    Thanks for the info.The V2 has some very nice punch.Not getting into the RG's,what other RS models that have such nice tops?   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Sunday, April 01, 2001 - 4:46 am:    Chris, Just for clarification, the Roadstar series survived through 1987 (maybe early '88). The model numbers started with "RS" from '83 through '85. 1986 and later model numbers start with "RG". Thus the begining of the "RG Series" in 1988. Flame top models (depending on finish) include; RS1300(birdseye), RS1000(birdseye), RS315, RS505(birdseye), RS535 RG530, RG600 There may be more! My catalog collection is incomplete. Here is my current Roadstar inventory; 1984 RS130BK black w/white pickguard 1986 RG140BK black w/black pickguard 1986 RG440PL pearl white (yellowed with age)w/black pickguard 1986 RG525GM gun metallic (like gunmetal blue) 1986 RG600WP wine pearl (wild blue pearl over white with burgundy burst flamed top) Steve   Mark Munchenberg (Munch) Posted on Sunday, April 01, 2001 - 9:19 pm:    Steve & Chris, I too recently joined the ranks of Roadstar owners. Like Chris I have walked by many of these guitars in search of '70's era Ibanez's. A Couple of weeks ago I saw a Roadstar in a pawn shop which kinda jumped out at me because of the beautiful bound birdseye maple top. I cut a deal and picked it up for $145 US Dollars with original case included. The model is the RS505 and was built in April 1983. I must say this is one of the best Strat style guitars I have played. It is equipped with 3 oversized single coils which remind me of Tele bridge pickups. The sound is clean, fat and loud. The bridge is the Ibanez Hardrocker which initially looks like a complicated locking job. But on closer inspection you see that it really is an updated, over-engineered take on the original Fender Synchronised Tremelo. I have been told that if set to float they are none too stable, and your better off setting it hard up against the body. I am now a Roadstar convert and will be keeping my eyes peeled for any bound models that pop up. Cheers, Mark   JohS Posted on Monday, April 02, 2001 - 10:32 am:    Guys: I too have passed up many RS guitars. Being an Artist lover, I was drawn to the maple topped, bound body of the higher numbered models, like the 1010SL, 1300, etc. Over a year ago I posted an inquiry in the Cool Contemporary Electrics section, called: "RS1300 Opinions". Because I didn't get any responses, I let the guitar pass. But I still love the curly maple top. I want to be prepared for the next time. In the meantime, maybe you guys can educate me about these guitars. Because the RSs come in so many flavors, here's my questions: 1. Are the unbound bodied, single-coil models Strat-sound-alikes? 2. How different do the humbucker equipped models sound, in comparison? Regarding the bridge pickup only models, is there enough sound variety in this configuration? 3. Can you trust the PowerRocker Trem system? 4. Are the Alan Hollsworth models really RSs? What's different? 5. What's the difference between the Roadsters and Roadstars? 6. Are there good production years to buy? Thanks.   chris s (Ccs) Posted on Monday, April 02, 2001 - 12:06 pm:    John, Being new to the Roadstar club the only issue I can comment on is the bridge only model.No,it doesn't have enough varity but it has a sound I can't get from my others.Retired from tour duty I am now a studio musican and over the weekend it has become my main lead guitar,it has a nice rich tone thats hard to explain.My 76 Destroyer is still the ultimate rythym machine but has always lacked a good lead sound.Thats whats nice about guitars,each one of mine has it's own place for it's distinct sound,none sound the same.It keeps things fresh.I can't see using RS315's in a live situation(my opinion) but for recording they are an asset. As for the V2's,were they the standard humm's in Roadstars?   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Monday, April 02, 2001 - 3:35 pm:    Everybody, First let me say I am thrilled with the discussions here! I didn't know, when I started the thread, if anybody gave a rip about Roadstars. This is heaven! As to the questions, I am working on a comprehensive data sheet for the Roadstar. I will have it available in Excel spreadsheet form and Word document soon. Gimme a week or two to finish it! JohS, 1) Yes, and No ! 2) As above there is no easy answer. There were so many different models and pick-ups used that the sound/tone varies a LOT ! 3) Yup, just don't set it up to float. 4) Yes. The Alan Holdsworth models are very much Roadstars. Aluminum block PowerRock'r trem, special "AH" humbuckers, "tone chamber" routed under the pickguard, ebony fret board, and I think the frets were special. 5)The RoadstEr preceded the RoadstAr series. RoadstErs were basically hardtail Strat copies without a pickguard. They used the Super6 pick-ups. HOT, HOT singles! 6)In my opinion, there are no "good" or "bad" years. However, '83 to '85 models must be grouped together. The '86 and later models had smaller bodies and leaned more toward the "RG Series" that replaced them. Chris, You can find Roadstars with Super58, Super70, V2, IBZ, IBX, and LoZ(active) humbuckers. Thanx Steve   Mark Munchenberg (Munch) Posted on Tuesday, April 03, 2001 - 1:03 am:    Steve, Is there such a thing as the SuperPower6 single coil. When researching my new Roasdtar RS505, JD's page called the pickups on my model by this name. On all others he just called them the Super6. Is this a typo error, or was there really a SuperPower6? Thanks, Mark   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Tuesday, April 03, 2001 - 11:12 am:    Mark, I too have seen Super6, SuperPower6, and SuperTap6 in the literature. I believe they are all basically the same. The "Tap" variant has two coils. Or maybe, more precisely, a break in the coil to allow tapping to reduce output and give a more "vintage" tone. If you lay an ohmmeter to one of these, you'll think you're looking at a humbucker. The coils are HUGE! I absolutely love the Super6 family of pick-ups! Even my gain-head brother (who typically HATES single coils) couldn't believe how great my old Blazer sounds (SuperTap6's). Now if there was a noiseless version... Steve   Terri (Guitargirl) Posted on Tuesday, April 03, 2001 - 12:39 pm:    I've got an RS530. It's got a blue/green to black transparent 'burst over a flame top. It's beautiful!   Mark Munchenberg (Munch) Posted on Tuesday, April 03, 2001 - 9:37 pm:    Terri, What are the harware and pickups featured on your guitar? Any chance of posting a pic?? Thanks Mark   Terri (Guitargirl) Posted on Wednesday, April 04, 2001 - 5:57 pm:    There's a pic on my site: http://www.angelfire.com/music/guitargirl66/530.html I need to try to get a better pic to show off the color. The neck humbucker is stock, the bridge humbucker was replaced with a DiMarzio something-or-other before I bought it. The neck pickup can be switched to single coil. The trem bridge is weird, but cool. It's got big metal bridge pins...freaked me out the first time I went to change strings!   ~FLY~ (Guitarworkz) Posted on Tuesday, April 10, 2001 - 8:15 am:    Hi everyone. I have a question. I've seen some older models of these actually called ROADSTERS. The ones I have seen were from the late 70's. Anyone have an data on these? They were all single coil strat type, most often in natural stained finishes. Seems like you people are raving about the roadstar. Do they play like strats? I'm thinking of buying one and since I used to own a strat I'm very comfy with that setup. ~FLY~   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Tuesday, April 10, 2001 - 10:45 am:    FLY, The RoadstEr series predated the RoadstAr. They were basically Strat copies, minus pickguard. If you look at the whole Roadstar series, you'll find everything from Strat-like models to neck-through twin humbucker set-ups. The rub is that the last one was made 13 years ago. Shopping is a bit tough! They come up on eBay regularly. Plan on spending $100 to $350 depending on model and condition. Steve   chris s (Ccs) Posted on Thursday, April 12, 2001 - 1:49 pm:    Model ID question: 1983,black flat top with white binding,rosewood fingerboard,angled single in neck and a humm in bridge,trem.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Thursday, April 12, 2001 - 3:28 pm:    Arrrggghhhh.... One of THOSE !! I can't find any literature on that model. I've seen a couple myself, one white, and one black. JD's Vintage page doesn't even have anything. So... I will speculate! If logic applies, then it's probably something like an RS365. There were later "RG Series" RG365's and RG565's with that pickup configuration and reversed headstocks. Why is there no mention in the catalogs? Possibly because this model was not intended for sale in the USA? I dunno... If anyone knows anything about this critter, PLEASE share! BTW; Chris, where are you located? (country) Steve   chris s (Ccs) Posted on Thursday, April 12, 2001 - 3:43 pm:    Upstate NY,USA.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Thursday, April 12, 2001 - 4:48 pm:    Oregon, USA (BTW; My wife is an "upstate" native) Anyone outside the US know about this model? Or have any non-US literature? I know there was some cool "Japan only" models, like an RG521 (hardtail RG Series). Steve   chris s (Ccs) Posted on Thursday, April 12, 2001 - 7:01 pm:    Steve, I was looking through "Guitar Stories Vol 1" for clues and guess what,theres a little pic of an ad from early '84 for the RS335.Your right,they came in black or white.Here's the info: The RS335 comes to the Roadstar series by popular demand.The Super 6 single coil rythem pickup and the V-2 hummbucking lead pickup provide unique hard driving sound combinations.The RS335 is constructed of lightweight basswood with cream binding and a "vintage feel"neck with rosewood fingerboard.Also included are the Hardrocker trem and Sure Grip II control knobs and dead end strap pins. Another mystery solved.Ask your wife about Binghamton   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Thursday, April 12, 2001 - 7:26 pm:    Outstanding! Must have been a "mid-year" flyer. never made the regular catalog. The RS410 wasn't in the catalog, but I have a two page flyer that "announces" it. Too cool, Chris. Thanx! I'll have her e-mail you direct. Steve   Ice (Mark_Hartman) Posted on Saturday, April 14, 2001 - 5:55 pm:    I'd just like to give my thanks to Steve here for contributing his knowledge to this board on the Roadstar/Roadster line of fine guit-fiddles. I just knew that there had to be someone out there in the world that had a passion for these models - like my own passion for the Iceman. Thanks Steve - for helping other enthusiasts gain knowledge and enlightenment.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Saturday, April 14, 2001 - 8:37 pm:    Ice & Everybody, Thou art most welcome! Although, no thanx is necessary 'cause I'm getting as much out of this as you. The only problem I've got now is, I don't have time to do all thing I need to do! For those who are waiting for scans or info (postings), I haven't forgot, and I'm not ignoring you! My son's playing Little League, MY softball season is getting underway, the band is ramping up for summer gigs, and somewhere I have to find time to get into the studio! Whew... I need a nap! Oh yeah, I work 40+ hours a week to pay the guitar bills. Lol !! Just picked up an '86 RG420 in Cherry Ice. *Grins* Cheers Steve   Mark Munchenberg (Munch) Posted on Monday, April 16, 2001 - 10:15 pm:    Man this is eerie!! I was searching an Australian auction site last week and guess what I find?? A Roadstar RS335 just like the one mentioned here. Only difference is that the knobs were changed over for Fender Strat style knobs. I'll try and post the pic here - hope its under 50Kb!   Terri (Guitargirl) Posted on Friday, April 20, 2001 - 7:00 pm:    I finally got a halfway decent pic of my RS530.   Terri (Guitargirl) Posted on Friday, April 20, 2001 - 7:06 pm:    Here's a shot of the body...the color's a little better on this one, I think.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Saturday, April 21, 2001 - 1:38 pm:    Terri, Very nice! Do you have any other Roadstars? Mark, Sumpthin' fishy here. That control plate ain't factory. Good pix of an unusual model. Thanx. Steve   Terri (Guitargirl) Posted on Saturday, April 21, 2001 - 2:00 pm:    Steve, That's the only one I've got, but we've got a seafoam green one at our shop. I think there's a Holdsworth model floating around here, as well.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Monday, April 23, 2001 - 12:02 am:    Terri, "Seafoam green one at the shop"? As in, for sale? Gimme a description, I may be interested. You might wanna e-mail me direct on this. gitfiddle1@excite.com Steve   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Monday, April 23, 2001 - 12:32 pm:    Data Sheet update; Well, it's been a slow process. First I had to decide what to include. That done, I had to figure out a uniform entry system for each field. The end result is something that will (hopefully) make the ID process on Roadstars easier. I have tried to enclude all the Roadstar models from 1983 through 1988. I hope to have it done this week in MS Excel format. The MS Word version should be close on it's heels. A plain text version may be a possiblity as well. Cheers Steve   Aki Rintamäki Posted on Tuesday, April 24, 2001 - 10:53 am:    Now that I made me read through this thread, I came up with a question too. I saw a Roadstar in a shop last autumn. I have never been drawn to them, so I didn't even try it. I wasn't even too much on Ibanezes at that time. The RS was sunburst-coloured, flat-top, white binding. The strange thing was the pickups. It seems that it had a super58-style PAF in the bridge, and a Super6 in the neck _and_ middle. Is it possible that the bridge-hb was assembled by the previous owner, or is this an original model? As far as I recall, it had a maple fretboard. I don't like them too much, but I guess I should give it a try, I have still seen it in the same shop. -Aki.   Aki Rintamäki Posted on Tuesday, April 24, 2001 - 11:07 am:    Shame. I just called the shop, and they had sold it. That's what you get when you hesitate. I got so interested in these RSs. -Aki.   Mark Munchenberg (Munch) Posted on Wednesday, May 09, 2001 - 3:58 am:    Hi Guys, Finally got a pic loaded onto the computer of my RS305 RoadstarII. Photo was taken during initial cleaning and setup so it looks kinda naked without strings, but that Birdseye top is mighty purdy dontcha fink??   Mark Munchenberg (Munch) Posted on Wednesday, May 09, 2001 - 4:01 am:    Oops! That's Roadstar RS505.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Wednesday, May 09, 2001 - 10:28 am:    NICE ! Does it have a comfort (belly) cut on the back? One of the details I haven't been able to pin down, is which models were slab bodies. Cheers Steve   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Wednesday, May 09, 2001 - 5:46 pm:    DUDES !!! (And DAMES) Check this out; http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1429962624 It's an RS1500. One of only two neck-through Roadstar models. I can't swing the cash for this one before the auction ends. Somebody needs to jump on it. Mike? Munch? Chris? I have never seen one of these outside of the catalog photos. I believe they made less than 200 of them. Cheers Steve   Mark Munchenberg (Munch) Posted on Wednesday, May 09, 2001 - 9:35 pm:    Steve, Yes it does have the comfort contour - which a good thing. I need all the room I can get for my Gut!!!!! HaHaHa!! Mark   Challenger Posted on Friday, May 11, 2001 - 3:23 am:    I've had a few roadstars myself. In one, I installed a Floyd and a Seymour Duncan JB. The thing absolutely killed until the Floyd studs collapsed into the pickup cavity (basswood -too soft!)- a career-ending injury, to be sure. Now I have a neck with no body. I'd love to find an RS1000 sunburst carvetop body with binding to put it on... along with the other parts I cannibalized. Anyone?   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Friday, May 11, 2001 - 12:22 pm:    Challenger, You will probably have more luck finding another complete RS1000 than an orphaned body. Keep an eye open on eBay and all the other auction sites. If you do find another, I would be very interested in buying your left over pieces. What other model Roadstars do you have? Good Luck Steve   Alex Edwards (Lightningboy) Posted on Tuesday, July 03, 2001 - 3:33 pm:    Terri, Et Al, I have a very similar guitar, same awesome color, just has two Humbucker/Single coil pickups that switch when you push on the volume knobs. I have another '83 Roadstar which I put in Duncans. Man are these guit-fiddles great!!!!! I wouldn't trade em for the world. Rock on my brothers! Alex   JohnS Posted on Wednesday, August 15, 2001 - 8:15 pm:    Steve (or anybody else): I just saw an '85 RS440 in fire engine red, with rosewood fretboard for sale in a local shop. It's got the 2 Super 7 single coils and a V5 Blade humbucker in the bridge position. It's in excellent, all original condition. The asking price is $240 (don't know about a case). What do you think?   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Wednesday, August 15, 2001 - 8:53 pm:    John, I would offer $200 IF: It's got the OHSC, and IF: All of the hardware for the ProRocker trem and lock are intact. If it's a screw in whammy bar you'll play hell finding a replacement. $240 is a very good asking price. If you haven't played one of these critters, I HIGHLY suggest you test drive it! Just because I love 'em doesn't mean they're right for everybody. Good luck and let us know what happens. Cheers Steve   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Thursday, August 16, 2001 - 11:21 am:    FYI; The photo above is a 1985 RS440FR (Fire Red) like John described. I have a huge collection of Ibanez photos (mostly "borrowed" from the web). My focus is Roadstars, of course, but I have shots of many other models too. Steve   JohnS Posted on Thursday, August 16, 2001 - 3:14 pm:    Steve: Thanks for the info. The photo above is *exactly* the model and color. The only difference is that mine has the trem arm. I think it is screw in, btw. I'm going to wait and see if it moves. If not, then I'll make an offer.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Friday, August 17, 2001 - 2:16 pm:    ...and what color would like that RS135?   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Friday, August 17, 2001 - 10:09 pm:    Gawd, I fat-fingered it again! ...and what color would YOU like that RS135? I posted this cuz I thought it was cool they offered so many different colors on the same model. Since it's obviously a Strat in Ibanez clothing, it makes sense they would try to compete with the many different Strat finishes. Steve   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Saturday, August 25, 2001 - 3:16 pm:    Smokey, The Roadstar series (1983-1988) may be the most diversified Ibanez series ever. Many different body woods, neck-through or bolt on, numerous variations on the body design, about 5 different tremolos, 3 or 4 different hardtails, and more pickups than I care to list here. The "RG Series", "JS", "S Series"(or "Saber"), JEM's, and others were all developed from the old Roadstar series. I've played mostly Roadstars for several years. And find I LIKE the feel of a Stratocaster. So you may find a Roadstar to your liking. Cheers Steve   Mike G. Posted on Sunday, August 26, 2001 - 1:19 pm:    Steve, Nice job with the pics. I did not realize they had color matched pickup covers too ! Very Cool. Keep up the good work ! Mike G.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Monday, August 27, 2001 - 2:28 am:    Mike, I believe the RS135 was the only model that had the color matched pickups. Officially, they were 1984/85 models only, but they must've built a gazillion of 'em. They're all over the place! Steve   Smokey J Posted on Tuesday, August 28, 2001 - 4:01 pm:    Steve - The pics are great. I like the blue 1, bottom middle, with the 3 single coils. Any idea of what model that guitar(with hard tail) would be? How about the "pro rocker" bridge. Is it similar to a Wilkinson trem? J   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Tuesday, August 28, 2001 - 5:39 pm:    Smokey, The hardtail version is a model RS130. Unfortunately, they were only available in black or white bodies w/white pickguard. The ProRocker was the first fine-tuner/locking-nut trem Ibanez offered. Available in 1984/85, it was replaced by the Edge in 1986. The lock is mounted above the nut like a Kahler. The PowerRocker is more like a vintage trem, although it is a top loader and used a pivot plate with two pivots. Works great if it's not set up to float. The HardRocker and HardRocker Pro were a twin knife-edge design. The HardRocker Pro locks the strings at the saddles. They were designed to float and work okay with gentle application of the whammy. Big dives will drive the guitar out of tune. Cheers Steve   Smokey J Posted on Wednesday, August 29, 2001 - 5:25 pm:    Thanks. How about the Roadster guitars. Are they the original version ? I saw 1 on ebay with 3 single coils, do all Roadsters come that way? J   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Wednesday, August 29, 2001 - 5:38 pm:    Smokey, Do a "Keyword Search" for "Roadster". I think I've already posted everything I know about 'em! Yes, I think all the Roadsters were triple single set-ups. And, yes, the Roadster and Blazer series evolved into the Roadstar series. If you're really after a "Strat", The Ibanez Challengers are reputed to be a good copy. However, you'll have to confirm that with some of the other members. I'm ignorant in that area! Cheers Steve   JohnS Posted on Thursday, August 30, 2001 - 12:38 pm:    Smokey: I haven't played that many Strats in my time, but I can tell you that those I've had the opportunity to play have varied considerably. (Mostly from the late 70s to recent MIJ, MIM models.) So, I can't tell "what" a player expects from a "Strat". I can tell you what I see in my '77 Challenger. A big fat neck! It's one piece of maple with a skunk stripe and the adjustment nut is under the pickguard. Of all my Ibanez guitars, this neck is the hardest for me to get used to. Besides the scale difference, it's huge. The fretboard radius is very round and the frets are low and thin (not worn, though.) If you are used to an Artist neck (as I am), it's a totally different animal. Is it a better Strat than most copies? Probably. I know the body is heavy and it has an unamplified resonance that other copies (and cheap Fenders) I've played don't have. The guitar has very good Gotoh tuners and stays in tune (if you don't go crazy with the trem). Also, the pickups are not too shabby. You can see a picture of my white Challenger in the Miscellaneous section, under the title: Survey - What's in Your Collection?   Smokey J Posted on Friday, August 31, 2001 - 8:11 am:    Where are all the Roadstar guitars? About a year ago I was kinda looking around and I saw more than a dozen on ebay at any time. NOw there's 3 ratty looking ones. Did you guys suck them all up? J   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Friday, August 31, 2001 - 1:11 pm:    Smokey, Um... I don't think I've got ALL of 'em, yet! They won't necessarily be listed with "Roadstar". Sometimes you gotta dig a little! Try searches like; ibanez road* -bass ibanez rs* Here's a neat, 1985 RS440; http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1460366330 And a 1986 RG440 (I have this one's twin, one of my favorites); http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1459882815 Keep watching. They come and go like everything else. You still dead-set on a hardtail? Steve   Smokey J Posted on Friday, August 31, 2001 - 6:14 pm:    Hey Steve - I'm not dead set on a hardtail. I mean I can always block the bridge or something, like I did on my Washburn. I think I may go with a Roadster, if I can find one in decent condition. I have a 78' musician, so a 78' or 79' roadster would be nice. I want one with single coils, since I already have 3 humbucker guitars. Later... J   Challenger Posted on Monday, September 17, 2001 - 3:48 pm:    Well, I had been looking for an RS1000 Cherry SB birdseye, and I finally got one on ebay. I paid $330 for it. I think that's a lot for a guitar sight unseen and hand uplayed. I had not even played one like it before, but I was fairly confident in its inherent value and asthetic quality. I was pleasantly surprised by how good it is. I believe it's one of the best looking models Ibanez has ever made, and now I know it it's a good guitar, too. Anyone need that funky gold bridge? It does not have the locking parts of the saddles, but it works. Studs and bushings (pain in the ass to remove) included. First to send me shipping of $5 gets it. Make an offer for the tuners and string trees. The pickups (Super 58s, non splittable) are available also. I just don't like them.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Tuesday, September 18, 2001 - 2:15 am:    Challenger, You bought an RS1000 and ripped all the hardware and pickups out of it? Why don't you just buy a guitar with the features you like, instead of ruining an original? Steve   Challenger Posted on Tuesday, September 18, 2001 - 4:22 pm:    Oh, stop... Ruin? And, uh, oh yeah - it's MINE fer chrissakes! If I want to douse it in gasoline and torch it, that's MY business. It's not as if it's a Stradivarius! Say you love the look of a '76 Corvette, but you want to have beefier suspension, better tires, and a supercharger. Maybe it's not original, but making it a badass car is what you're trying to achieve. I have had people come up to me and say, "Wow, that's a cool Ibanez - I've never seen one like that before." And when they play it, they flip out. I dig that. That's customizing, and I have done it to every guitar I use regularly. I even have an Ibanez prototype - the ULTIMATE collectible. I have modified it also - but nothing I did can't be reversed back to original, and those modifications cosiderably improved the tone, feel, and look of the guitar. I don't consider an RS1000 to be a truly collectible guitar. They made thousands of them, all alike. Besides, I don't sit around and polish the things and look at them in a glass case - I PLAY them. Also, it's not as if people who want them can't get them. They are out there. If you have one, congratulations! I may have helped it become more rare! But I highly doubt it.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Tuesday, September 18, 2001 - 5:18 pm:    You still didn't answer my question. Why not buy a guitar that already has the features you want? Steve   Kirk Posted on Tuesday, September 18, 2001 - 11:49 pm:    Challenger, I will buy the gold hardrocker bridge. A couple of questions -- no biggies either way. Does it have the bar and did you save any of the pictures from the eBay auction? I might be interested in the rest of the tuners, trees and pick-ups. Just e-mail me to let me know what you think is reasonable for the whole package. Send pics if you kept them. Steve, Until recently, my RS1000 had been my main axe from the time I bought it new back in 1984 ('83 model). I have completely worn out the frets and have been conflicted whether I should restore it or hot-rod it. It's a major time-piece for me and I'm quite attached to it. I want to preserve it, yet I want to keep playing it too. Since I bought my new S2020X, I'm now sold 100% on double locking systems. So, I'm afraid that I won't play it much if restore it. If I hot-rod it, I'll probably replace the worn frets with jumbos instead of tall mediums, install a locking nut, and route (if necessary) for a lo-pro edge or comparable floyd. Unfortunately, I think the trem posts will have to be moved forward about 5/16". There is a great luthier in town, so it's all doable, but irreversable. What's your take? Restore, preserve and rarely play it -- or -- hot-rod it and keep it rockin' hard? I appreciate your thoughts, Kirk   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 - 3:02 pm:    Kirk, As our friend said, it's YOUR guitar. I don't have a problem with customizing/modifying. I just can't understand buying a guitar if you know ahead of time that you're gonna have issues with it. Total production on the RS1000CS was 3165 units. They're not "rare" by any means. Unless yours is black (only 100 made). However, it IS a high end Roadstar (4-digit model number). If it were me, I'd keep it original and use it as a back-up. Cheers Steve   Kirk Posted on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 - 11:53 pm:    It's been a tough call for me, Steve. I've pretty much settled on that course of action (though I might still go with the jumbo frets). That's why I'd like to buy Challengers parts. If I remember the one he got on eBay, the hardware wasn't perfect but it was better than mine. There's hardly a fleck of gold left on the upper third of my bridge. Seventeen years of sweat and palmage! That's also why I bought the '86 PL2550. It's a sweet guitar. Plus, it is affordable and I don't have a sentimental attachment. So, I can drag it around freely and not freak out if something happens to it. With a double locking Edge, it stays in tune way better than the RS1000CS, though not quite as well as my new S2020XAV. I'm gonna take the Proline to that luthier I mentioned. I've set it up pretty well (knife edges perpendicular, truss rod, etc.), but it may need fresh springs. I also wonder if replacing the fine tuning screws might help. They seem to have a little more slack than the new one. Ah well... Such sweet dilemmas. It's great to be back in the music game full steam ahead!!! I've been doing too little for too long. I'm encouraged to see that there are other Ibanez freaks out there! Peace, Kirk   Challenger Posted on Saturday, September 29, 2001 - 4:45 am:    To answer Steve's question - the 'issues' I spoke of are preferences. I simply prefer American and German hardware and electronics to Asian parts. I believe they are made better. I happen to like the look of that body. It is far easier and cheaper for me to modify an existing guitar to suit my tastes than buy or build one from the ground up. I thought the Corvette analogy would have sufficed, seeing that finding a car with all the options you would want would be extremely time-consuming and expensive, not to mention damned unlikely. Someone asked how a sculptor makes a sculpture of an elephant. To which the sculptor said, "I start with a huge block of stone, and I remove anything that doesn't look like an elephant". Sometimes you need to see what you don't want before you can realize what you do want. I hope this has sufficiently put this question to rest.   RG140 Posted on Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - 6:56 am:    Steve or anyone else, How much do you know about the RG140??? I have one and have been pretty hard pressed finding anything about them. I know they are no longer made, but I know little else besides that.   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - 11:22 am:    What do you want to know? It would help to have the serial number, for production date. Also, which headstock does it have? (rounded, or pointy) Any other descriptive info is helpful. I have an '86 RG140 in black. Even though the 100 series was the low end, I find my '86 to be a great player. However, the '87 and '88 100 series were produced in Korea and are not of the same quality as the earlier Japanese models. Cheers Steve   RG140 Posted on Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - 7:28 pm:    Its a Korean made RG140, the serial number is P702461, it has a pointy headstock, is black, black pickguard, headstock, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, SSH. I got it second hand many years ago so don't know much about its orignal state. I know its a low end guitar but I like it...its a nice guitar. Just some questions you may have answers to, if not thats alright too. What were the quality issues between the Japanese/Korean models? How much did the guitar initally retail for? When were they no longer produced...any info you have is good info...   Steve (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Wednesday, October 24, 2001 - 11:51 am:    Okay, The serial number, plus the pointy headstock, makes it a 1987. Body should be basswood. I'm not sure about the pickups. The literature is sketchy and not real accurate for the '87-'88 models. I don't have any pricing or production figures. The Roadstar RG140 was available from '86 to '88. The RG140 model number can be found on later "RG Series" guitars too. From my experience, the Korean made models of the era used lesser grade materials and the quality of workmanship isn't as nice as the Japanese models. The're not necessarily bad guitars, they just didn't get the detailing of their upscale brothers. Cheers Steve   RG140 Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 2:15 am:    Steve, Thanks for the help, that gave my RG140 a little more history...I really appreciate your help! =)   Aki Rintamäki Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 2:13 pm:    Hi Yall! Q about RS1010MS (Lukather), that is for sale in a local store. I was testing it out the next day I had heard about it. Some little set-up needed, but otherwise it felt quite nice. The feeling, "I could make this feel good" that has came to me with some guitars before. I am not sure, if this would be a keeper for me. I am more to AM, CN, AR -series, but I would hate to pass this one anyway. These guitars are quite rare here in Finland. Since my financial situation would allow me to buy it, I am thinking of buying, setting up and playing for a few months, and selling. Should I? Condition: Front: Good, pretty good. Top is full of very tiny pick scratches that could be (easily) removed, I think. Back: Belt has done its job, and one edge around the bridge spring cavity is worn to show the wood, but only for 2 x 10mm. Neck and Headstock: Very good, no issues. No case included. Do these fit in a Strat sized case? All seems original, except for the intonation screws in the bridge. While replacing them, someone didn't put the string saddles in the right order, but that is easy to fix. For what do these go for? It doesn't have a case of any kind, so I suppose 300$ might be fair? They are having a discount of 350$ (normally 420$ or so). Opinions? What would You pay for an overall decent condition players guitar? -Aki.   JohnS Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 5:00 pm:    Aki: There's an RS1010SL on ebay right now. The seller has a "Buy it Now" price of $1000.00. No pictures of it, though. http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1478627769   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 5:38 pm:    Hey, While this RS1010SL IS a signature model, AND a high end Roadstar, it is STILL a Roadstar. I think the $1000 Buy It Now price is a pipe dream! I don't have production numbers but they aren't particularly rare, judging from the many I've seen pass through eBay. There's another one up right now; http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1477258550&r=0&t=0&showTutorial=0&ed=1004301257&indexURL=0&rd=1 This one has a $695 Buy It Now. I think fair market value is $300-$450, depending, of course, on condition. I'd gladly pay $400 for a clean one with the case. It'll be interesting to see where the bidding goes on these. The early ('83-'85) Roadstars are a bit wider across the horns than later Ibanez offerings (RG, S, ect). A Strat case may work, but you'll have to test fit for yourself. Cheers Steve   JohnS Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 6:10 pm:    Steve: I thought that $1000 was high, too. The case in the one you found on ebay looks like the case my Ibanez Strat replica came in.   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 6:59 pm:    The brown, semi-contoured case is the typical '83-'85 Roadstar case. The '86 and later version is grey with a gold or silver Ibanez logo. The early guitars don't fit the later case. Cheers Steve   Johns (Johns) Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 8:00 pm:    Steve (Mr. Roadster ) Any idea what model this one is: http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1478670527   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 9:50 pm:    John, That's Mr. RoadstAr to you, Buddy! *chuckles* As Munch discovered earlier in this thread, it's an RS335. Why? You plannin' on bidding against me? He he he... Seriously, that model is on my list of "wants". Unfortunately, my cash is a bit tight, or I'd be all over it. Aki, I found production numbers on the RS1010SL. Would you believe a total of 1674 units? Sheesh... I think this confirms my opinion about the prices. Cheers Steve   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 10:00 pm:    RETRACTION: Oops, it was Chris not Mark who found the info on the RS335. Mark posted the photo of a black RS335. My bad! Thanx guys. Steve   Bricks (Bricks) Posted on Friday, October 26, 2001 - 1:38 am:    A big thanks to John and Steve regarding the RS335. I didn't realize the description earlier in the thread was for "that" guitar, but I also spotted the auction you linked to (I don't think those gold control cover plates are original). That's the third one I've seen in a about a month. My buddy and former bandmate bought one back in '84 because he loved my RS1000, but he was never happy with his 335 and sold it early on. He hated the flat top, missed the HB at the neck, and the tone of those V2's at the bridge is quite different than my Super 58's. Another mystery solved! BTW -- The RS1000 parts I bought from Challenger are in very good condition (way better than mine). He's selling me just about everthing except the body and controls. Haven't got the neck yet, but if the rest is any indication, I can surely put off a long overdue fretjob. QUESTION: What is a reasonable price for a refret with jumbos on my old neck? The "best" guy in town said it could run $300. Could he be that good? He seemed like a real jerk, so I'm happy to look elsewhere. My last fretjob only cost $80 (in the mid-1980's on my '77 LP2350WH)... AND!!! it was done by some little known luthier named Terry McInturff (www.mcinturffguitars.com). Peace, Kirk   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Friday, October 26, 2001 - 11:56 am:    Kirk, Your post is a classic example of what I love about Roadstars. VARIETY! I think Ibanez had about the perfect humbucker combination in the Destroyer (Super58 neck/V2 bridge). The last quote I had on a refret was $265. This was on a bound neck. I didn't shop around 'cause I know the quality that comes from this particular shop is top notch. Glad to hear Challenger's "donor" parts are going to help you out. Cheers Steve   Aki Rintamäki Posted on Sunday, October 28, 2001 - 10:18 am:    Oh my. I thought the RS1010s go at something like 250$ cheapest. I think I'll visit the store again tomorrow, and nag about the shape offering 290$... Steve: RS1010SL.. I first thought the SL stands for Sour Lime colour or something like that. But anyway, 1674 guitars made, in one year or overall? Either way, not many of them have landed in Finland, I'm sure.. :o) -Aki.   Aki.Rintamäki Posted on Monday, October 29, 2001 - 5:32 am:    Oh brother. The Freak in me got loose AGAIN! Well, it's a good freak, the freak has taste. Bought the RS1010SL. Ca 330$ including a new set of DR strings. No case, but a vibrato arm included. The arm looks good and solid, but I don't think it is original. Next night will be spent in disconnecting the bridge to plain parts, oiling them, and setting the guitar up for me. Old-Ibanezism rules the world! (Screw the neo-Ibanezists.. not.) ;o) Well, I suppose You know this feeling. -Aki.   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Monday, October 29, 2001 - 12:32 pm:    Aki, Congrats on the new purchase. Neither of the eBay RS101SL's got close to reserve. "Neo-Ibanezists"? LMAO !!! Steve   Aki Rintamäki Posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2001 - 4:20 am:    :o) I spent last night going through the guitar, tightening screws, changing strings, oiling the bridge.. I peeked under the pickups, and that rose a question. The bridge pickup has normal 'Super 58' text at the bottom, but it also has a big stamped 'Z'. Does the Z stand for special overwound Lukather-model or something else? The bridge pickup squeeks easier than the neck, which is a Super 58 without a 'Z'. Or has Zorro visited the bridge pickup cavity leaving his logo..? -Aki.   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Tuesday, October 30, 2001 - 3:35 pm:    Aki, According to the literature, the bridge pickup is special wound to Steve's specs. The neck pickup was a standard Super58. I've never seen one myself, but it sounds like you've got the original stuff! I spoke with Zorro. He said he did not remember ever violating a guitar! Cheers Steve   Aki Rintamäki Posted on Friday, November 02, 2001 - 7:29 am:    Steve: Thanks! Good to hear. I wonder, what does the "special wound to Steve's specs" mean. I don't think he came up with an idea, that he would like an inductance boost of another 0.8 Henrys or a bit lower resonance peak etc. Probably he just said, that the bridge pu should have a bit more gain, and Ibanez overwound a Super 58 for this guitar. I would have suggested a Super 70. Anyway, these two 58s work very fine in the 1010, and the push-push coil splitters are a must! Still, I have to get me a CN. I almost had a CN250AV, but the seller faded without really telling why. Pisses me off! -Aki.   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Friday, November 02, 2001 - 12:13 pm:    Aki, Watch eBay. CN's come up there pretty regular. I know shipping might be a pain for you, but if you really want one, it's worth it. http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?MfcISAPICommand=GetResult&SortProperty=MetaNewSort&query=ibanez&ebaytag1=ebayreg&ebaytag1code=0&ht=1&category0=11233&st=0 Cheers Steve   Williamwilson (Williamwilson) Posted on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 11:25 pm:    OK, guys, I'm getting abolutely DESPERATE! I'm looking for a pair of the black pickup trim rings for the IBZ humbuckers and 4 of the STUPID little string retainer blocks for a black Pro Rock'R trem to fit my '84 RS530. Anybody have any ideas where to find such rarities? New, used, I don't care, as long as they're in decent shape. Please contact me at (604) 202-4243 or email at William_Wilson@shaw.ca TIA Will   Gitfiddle1 (Gitfiddle1) Posted on Friday, March 15, 2002 - 1:10 pm:    Will, I'd love to help, but these parts are just a bitch to find! My spare rings have had extra holes punched in them for aftermarket pickups. Keep looking, something will turn up. Cheers Steve   Williamwilson (Williamwilson) Posted on Saturday, March 16, 2002 - 6:13 pm:    Steve, I'm thinking that there must be tons of Roadstars out there in really shabby condition that could be parted out. You know, "The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few" (or something like that!). Does anyone know of any RS530's (or similar) in really rough shape that we could attack like a pack of Hyenas on a Gazelle? Will   Lloyd (Lloyd) Posted on Sunday, July 07, 2002 - 12:17 pm:    Have just got hold of a beautiful looking Roadstar Series II serial #A840206 - cherry sunburst birds-eye maple top, double cream/black binding. Basswood body/alder perhaps? Superb. I was really stunned by the quality of this guitar, particularly when I compared it with the small collection of Gibsons and Fenders - Les Pauls, Juniors, Strats and Teles - I've amassed over the years... ONLY PROBLEM IS all the strings were off the RS and I don't know how to set up that over-engineered bit of gold stuff called a floating tremolo from scratch. Every time I bring a string up to pitch all the others go out. All I want to do is to tune it. Can anyone can help with instructions pls? It's driving me mad. Tks. Logic tells me to simply block the tremolo off and throw away the whammy bar but I don't want to give up on it unless I have to. I hope to be posting pictures of the beast soon, it's a real piece of eye candy.   Mr_Roadstar (Mr_Roadstar) Posted on Monday, July 08, 2002 - 12:42 pm:    Lloyd, DO NOT throw away the whammy! Those old screw-in whammy's are IMPOSSIBLE to find. Sounds like you've got either an RS1000 or an RS1300. Does it have a string lock above the nut? I assume, from your post, that you've never dealt with a floating trem before. There is a lot of detailed instructions available on the web for tuning/setting-up a floater. The basic info for an Ibanez Edge or Floyd Rose will be useful. If you can't find anything, e-mail me. I'll get you pointed in the right direction. Cheers Steve   Lloyd (Lloyd) Posted on Tuesday, July 09, 2002 - 11:50 am:    Steve - thanks for your input. Don't worry, even if I couldn't fix it, I wouldn't throw the whammy bar away. In answer to your question, there's no string lock above the nut, just a couple of substantial-looking brass string trees. I guess I've got an Ibanez Edge floater from what you say, so is it a 1200 or what? and yes, pls do point me in the right direction for setting it up. Many thanks, it's really great to learn stuff...   Lloyd (Lloyd) Posted on Tuesday, July 09, 2002 - 12:02 pm:    Here's a pic of the Roadstar Series II I'm working on as promised and if I've done my formatting correctly, I'll send a couple more   Mr_Roadstar (Mr_Roadstar) Posted on Tuesday, July 09, 2002 - 1:47 pm:    Lloyd, If there is no string lock, then you have a HardRocker or HardRocker Pro trem. The ProRocker and Edge trems are both double-locking systems with fine tuners. Since you did mention it is gold, your guitar should be an RS1000 with a HardRocker Pro. I'll dig through my literature and try to get you a scan of the set-up instructions. Cheers Steve   Lloyd (Lloyd) Posted on Thursday, July 11, 2002 - 11:19 am:    Steve - sure would be grateful if you could do that. An RS1000 with a HardRocker Pro, eh? Sure sounds cool... now, if only I could get it to work, that and my darn picture platform. Not to worry, I'll get those pix of the birds-eye maple top on here by hook or by crook. Nice to know there's somewhere they will be appreciated.   Mr_Roadstar (Mr_Roadstar) Posted on Thursday, July 11, 2002 - 11:59 am:    Lloyd, I have just what you need. However, my scanner took a dive! I'll have to get my brother to do the scanning this weekend, sorry. Cheers Steve   Mr_Roadstar (Mr_Roadstar) Posted on Thursday, July 11, 2002 - 2:45 pm:    ATTENTION !!! _ PLEASE READ... Since this thread now has 100+ posts, It's become slow to load (without a broadband connection). So, I've started a "Roadstar Corner Q&A (Part II)" thread to continue the discussions. Cheers Steve   Donp Username: Donp Registered: 4-2007 Posted on Sunday, April 08, 2007 - 8:17 am:    FOR SALE...IBANEZ RG140 ROADSTAR. 1986 vintage.Ends 16/4/07. Red. Ebay Item #280102105908   Johns Username: Johns Registered: 2-2001 Posted on Sunday, April 08, 2007 - 3:39 pm:    Donp: Nice guitar...but you gotta have someone work on that back lawn for you!   Fingersmcoy Username: Fingersmcoy Registered: 10-2006 Posted on Monday, April 09, 2007 - 5:20 pm:    MARK MUNCH ! I have a Roadstar w/ the same pickup configuration as the Roadstar pic you posted. Any idea what pickups are in that guitar? I have the same natural headstock.   Acjames Username: Acjames Registered: 4-2007 Posted on Tuesday, April 10, 2007 - 1:52 pm:    I'm going to pop my head in here to say that the picture in the second post of this thread is an absolutely beautiful guitar. Were it not for the floating trem, I'd be all over it. I hate Floyd Rose/floating trem systems with a passion. Give me a fixed bridge/saddle system any day. I still want that guitar, though.   Gepetto Username: Gepetto Registered: 6-2007 Posted on Monday, June 04, 2007 - 9:05 am:    Hi everyone.. I'm new here, and have a problem with mine rs1000 Pro rocker bridge is not good for me anymore, and strings are begining to break during gigs, so i'm trying to make a change, maybe buying floyd rose or sth... Becasue of pro rocker is little bit larger than floyd, do you have any suggestions about this topic (where can i but parts for that kind of tremoloes)? I wouldn't like to destroy the guitar, so i'm posting here... Sory for my english, Im writing from Croatia, Europe. Thanks in advance Stjepan   Mr_roadstar Username: Mr_roadstar Registered: 6-2002 Posted on Tuesday, June 05, 2007 - 3:01 am:    6 posts back: Posted on Thursday, July 11, 2002 - 2:45 pm: ATTENTION !!! _ PLEASE READ... Since this thread now has 100+ posts, It's become slow to load (without a broadband connection). So, I've started a "Roadstar Corner Q&A (Part II)" thread to continue the discussions. We're now up to: Roadstar Corner Q&A (Part 5) http://www.ibanezcollectors.com/discus/messages/14 /17485.html Try your post there. The Bear

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