What upgrades can I do to an SE 245?

[flatfeed611]

I have an SE 245 from 2017 or 2018 that is one of my favorite guitars. I was wondering if there are any upgrades that are worth considering. I don't want to swap the pickups though (I imagine this would be one of the first suggestions), because I really like the way it sounds, and am afraid that it might change something in that area that may impact my enjoyment of it in a negative way.

 

[DISTORT6]

First thing that I would address is tuning stability and set-up.
After that, electronics - pots, switches, and wiring.
Then if need be - pickups.

 

[Bogner]

You Could Upgrade It To A Core.

 

[Prina]

First thing that I would address is tuning stability and set-up.
After that, electronics - pots, switches, and wiring.
Then if need be - pickups.

+1 on this.

In addition to setting the bridge, prior to getting a PRS, I'd never adjusted neck relief but it's easy on an SE 245. And pickup height can make a significant difference. Just write down the position prior to adjusting so you can take it back if needed.

But swapping pickups, and going back to originals, isn't difficult with good soldering equipment can really take the guitar to the next level.

 

[sergiodeblanc]

Nothing except maybe buying it a brother or sister.

 

[SinSir]

I'd you like it as is. Nothing. Upgrade and mods aren't always interchangeable words. If it ain't broke don't fix it. Put the cash towards another

 

[deathworlder]

I only recently became aware of this model guitar...
I'm down with what @DISTORT6 recommended...

However...
If you do get into the electronics...maybe try independent volume and tone controls?

 

[littlebadboy]

I'd you like it as is. Nothing. Upgrade and mods aren't always interchangeable words. If it ain't broke don't fix it. Put the cash towards another

I agree with this!

If there's nothing wrong with it, you don't have to upgrade anything.

 

[dmatthews]

Big fan of locking tuners, even just for more rapid/easy string changes...

 

[Alnus Rubra]

This old thing got locking tuners and raw brass bridge posts, as well as some very fine pickups wound by our very own @Fullmoon 1971.

Obviously the major tonal differences were brought about by adding Amber Lampshades and a Signature TRC

On a serious note, what is a bright guitar acoustically, was made that bit brighter. Which was pleasing to me.

The pickups are top notch too.

 

[Headset]

As others have said locking tuners are first on my list of upgrades for an SE. even if your guitar is already stable it makes string changes a breeze. Since you say you don’t want to change the tone of the guitar I won’t recommend a bridge upgrade. However, if you don’t like the feel of a painted neck I would get it sanded down to feel more like satin.

 

[flatfeed611]

Thanks everyone! The only thing I'm now considering is the tuners and higher grade knobs. Will leave the rest as is.

 

[garrettb]

Thanks everyone! The only thing I'm now considering is the tuners and higher grade knobs. Will leave the rest as is.

SE locking tuners and lampshade knobs will make nice finishing touches.

 

[SinSir]

Thanks everyone! The only thing I'm now considering is the tuners and higher grade knobs. Will leave the rest as is.

Agree with above, get some PRS locking tuners and lampshades. Contact John Mann

Smart move not messing with anything else if you like the tone. Start tinkering with wiring, pups, and bridges your tone will change.