Easy Guitar Customization!

Hello! I’m Kaoru, a composer!

Today, I’d like to introduce some easy-to-use customization items for guitars and basses that anyone can try, no special tools or expertise required. We’ll look at parts that not only change the appearance but also significantly impact sound and playability, so this is a must-read for anyone looking to upgrade their guitar or bass!

Most of the items I’ll feature only require basic tools like screwdrivers and wrenches, making them perfect for beginners in customization.

Let's dive in!

FENDER / Fatfinger Guitar Nickel

A handy item that attaches to the headstock to extend sustain. It’s super easy to use—just tighten the built-in screw to clamp it on. Its balanced weight means it won’t interfere with playability!

Compatible with any guitar except headless types, it also works effectively with other string instruments like basses and violins. Made from chrome-plated steel, it's highly durable and designed for long-term use.

So how does it work? By adding weight to the neck, it helps to improve sustain and balance the resonance, giving you a richer, more controlled sound.

MONTREUX / Copper Shielding Tape 70mm x 1500mm [8657]

This tape reduces noise when applied to the back of the pickguard or inside the cavity. It’s easy to cut with scissors or a cutter, allowing you to adjust it to your desired length. The tape itself is thin and lightweight.

With a length of 70mm x 1500mm, one roll should be enough for use on multiple instruments.

MONTREUX / Copper Shielding Tape 200mm x 370mm [8642]

This is a smaller type. Choose the size that best suits your needs!

Sumitomo Electric Fine Polymer / SUMITUBE F 5Φ

Sumitube is a heat-shrink tubing that uses shape-memory effects from electron-beam-irradiated plastic. When heated with a hair dryer or heat gun, it shrinks, reinforcing and protecting wiring.

It’s also useful for insulating electronic parts like resistors and capacitors. Note that it may harden with use, reducing flexibility, so it’s ideal for protecting fragile cable ends. Be sure to select the appropriate size based on the cable’s thickness!

Freedom Custom Guitar / Noise Hell　SP-D-03

This is a conductive paint primarily made of copper, designed for lacquer applications. Applying it inside control cavities or pickup routings reduces noise, and grounding it with a lug further enhances its effectiveness. Since it’s a paint, use a spray gun or brush to apply it evenly, and try to work in a dust-free environment.

For maximum effect, you may need to apply multiple coats. If you’re struggling with noise issues, this is a great first solution to try!

*Note: Shielding the inside of a guitar will reduce noise but may also slightly alter the tone. Please keep this in mind.*

ALLPARTS / SRO-62 Stratocaster Neck

This is a standalone Stratocaster neck with the following specs (from the official site):

• Maple neck with a rosewood veneer fingerboard
• 21 frets (.079" x .051")
• Sanded, unfinished with a spray finish option
• 7.25-inch radius
• Nut width of 1-5/8 inches, heel width of 2-3/16 inches
• Tuning peg hole diameter of .340 inches
• Truss rod adjustment at the heel
• Neck thickness of .85 inches at the 1st fret and .95 inches at the 12th fret

Frets are pre-installed, but you’ll need to attach the tuning pegs yourself. Additionally, leveling and polishing of the frets are required.

This neck is ideal for those facing severe neck warp issues that are hard to fix, guitarists interested in building a custom neck, or anyone looking to improve their repair skills. Perfect for personalizing your Strat or as a practice piece for honing your luthier skills!

SCHALLER / S-Locks Nickel

Strap lock pins prevent your guitar or bass strap from accidentally coming off—an essential item for those who perform with intense, energetic stage moves. They offer a secure fit, giving you peace of mind during performances.

They’re easy to install with a screw, but be careful to avoid stripping the screw hole. In some cases, you may need to widen the hole slightly for a proper fit.

Freedom Custom Guitar / SP-EC-01 Leather Endpin Cushion

The FreedomCGR Leather End Pin Cushion is made from genuine leather, providing superior shock absorption and durability compared to felt alternatives. Depending on the type of strap pin, installation may be a bit tricky.

A nice benefit is that no tools are required for installation! However, please note that leather can potentially affect lacquer finishes, so use with caution.

MASTERY BRIDGE / M2

This innovative bridge addresses a common issue with Jazzmasters, Jaguars, and Mustangs—preventing strings from slipping off the saddle. It’s also compatible with Bass VI, Jag-Stang, and Telecasters equipped with Bigsby tremolos.

Beyond its functionality, this bridge maximizes string vibration transfer to the body, delivering a clear, powerful tone with outstanding resonance. It noticeably enhances sustain, giving a rich, satisfying sound. Additionally, it improves tuning stability and reduces buzz, making it a stress-free choice for performance.

With its sleek design, it’s sure to stand out on stage. It even comes with a small drawstring bag. This bridge is designed for Japanese guitars with standard non-threaded body thimbles.

QPARTS / Blue Abalone on Dome Knob Dark Black

This easily installable metal guitar knob offers a premium look, perfect for those who want to enhance their guitar’s appearance! Each knob has unique color variations and patterns, making each one slightly different—a nice touch for individuality.

It fits a shaft diameter of approximately 6mm, but by removing the inner metal sleeve, it can also accommodate inch-sized shafts. The manufacturer offers a wide range of color and design variations, so be sure to check out their other options!

Freedom Custom Guitar / Tone Shift Plate SP-JP-03

This is a neck plate for guitars and basses. Though often overlooked, it plays a crucial role in transmitting string vibrations from the neck to the body.

Made of brass, this neck plate enhances sustain and delivers a warm, overtoned sound. It also captures subtle picking nuances, making it ideal for expressive playing. You’ll be amazed at the difference a simple neck plate swap can make!

DIMARZIO / DM2001 Violet

This is a cover for single-coil pickups. Typically, pickups come in standard colors like black, white, or silver, right?

But simply adding this cover can make your guitar really stand out! It’s perfect for those wanting to add a personal touch.

Covers for twin-blade and humbucker pickups are also available, so be sure to check those out too!

SCUD / GE-PSP-H

This is a tremolo power spring for the back of a guitar body. It’s a high-tension, firm spring that brings out clear, bright highs.

You’ll really notice a difference in sound, making it a fun upgrade! Plus, it improves tuning stability.

That wraps up our overview of guitar and bass customization items! Finding your ideal sound can be challenging, but even small adjustments or part swaps can get you closer to your dream tone. Give some of these items a try and see what works best for you!

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