X-170: 1988 versus 2001...

[guildman63]

Does anyone know of any differences between a 1988 and 2001 X-170? Thanks!

 

[matsickma]

The main item is the HB-1 pickups manufactured in 1988 will be closer in tone to the origionals. The later HB-1 are a little different in tone. The later ones seem to have a pinch more distortion and a little less kick. However this is not based on engineering measurements of the tone or composition of th epickup.

The other difference is the pickguard is likely clear with a black paint backing + gold Guild wording and is mounted with the pickguard clear of the pickup bezel. The early X170's have a black-white-black-white-black laminated pickguard andit overlaps the pickup bezel. Some players don't like the overlap sesign because if it "slaps" the bezel the slap can be amplified by the pickup.

M

 

[GAD]

An '88 X170 will likely have a 1 5/8" neck while the 2001 will have a 1 11/16" (at the nut).

Pickups on the '88 will be worlds better than on a '01 IMO, assuming they haven't been replaced.

The pick guard mounting over the rings drives me nuts because it interferes with my picking at times. That or I don't like the way it feels while I'm playing. I can't remember which, but I know I don't like the design for tactile reasons.

 

[guildman63]

Thanks for the info!

 

[CajunBlues]

Wasn't the 2001 X170 made in Corona ? 88 was made in Westerly... It's amazing Fender doesn't make these anymore...

 

[guildman63]

Wasn't the 2001 X170 made in Corona ? 88 was made in Westerly... It's amazing Fender doesn't make these anymore...

2001 was made in Westerly. I don't think X-170's were ever made in Corona, but I could be wrong.