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Joined:
May 2016
Posts: 11
| Hi! I purchased an AWESOME looking Viper for my 19yr old son Josh and would like to learn more about it. I couldn't find a reference to a guide for serial numbers, so.... This one is #E 10690. Any guidance on finding info?
It is natural colored body and fretboard and my son wants an original style black pickguard, like WDMusic has. But where to find the right trussrod cover?
Someone replaced the pickguard with a not-quite-same-shape hunk of clear 3/16" thick lucite, two humbuckers (one works and is really really HOT), a broken toggle, and speed knobs.
I'd like to hear from some more experienced folks whether I should try to restore it by finding original pickups (we don't have a lot of excess cash, though), or just put a new replacement oem style pickguard on with a pair of Mighty Mite Motherbuckers I have.... I've also got a set of Schecter humbuckers, Lace P-90 soapbars, and one INF-3...
I guess I could put the INF3 on with working HB currently on it... Or should I find a replacement for the originals, like minibuckers?
I don't play, I just build guitars for my son and live vicariously. So, which route do you guys suggest? Thanks in advance! |
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Joined:
December 2001
Posts: 7222
Location: The Great Pacific Northwest | Hello and Welcome,
The serial number can be found here. http://www.ovationfanclub.com/megabbs/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=32... in the FAQ section hidden under Serial Numbers (exiting smart-arse mode).. 
As for the pickups... while the originals are great, and unique due to being very hot single coils, I think a couple of Lace P-90's like you have would be a great match. You can get replacement pickguards from http://www.wdmusic.com/ search for Ovation Viper. They'll do custom cuts. Or our very own MWoody can probably be bribed into making a wood pickguard for ya. When you respond someone will grant you access to the full site so you can post in the main section where more folks can respond. |
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Joined:
May 2016
Posts: 11
| Thanks, Mr. O! Smart-arse remarks were well deserved. I just couldn't seem to figure it out. :-) It is apparently a 1975-80.
I just don't like the looks of the soapbars: big hunk of plastic... When you say "great match" is that for looks, fit, sound similar to the originals, or just a good sound in general...?
Oh, and I'll try to find a serial number for my son's translucent blue-faced bowlback Ovation. He has two Ovations! Thanks for the help!
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Joined:
May 2016
Posts: 11
| May I post in General now? There doesn't seem to be any approval yet... Thanks! |
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Joined:
May 2016
Posts: 11
| Hi. I still can't post in General yet. Is there a link to soundfiles where I could hear what original Viper pickups sound like? Thanks! |
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Joined:
September 2006
Posts: 10777
Location: Keepin' It Weird in Portland, OR | There are Ovation Viper on YouTube if you search for "Ovation Viper"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdmE1J-qkgg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_W5L6_LW57s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s95CFXdZiXs not in English
As to being able to post, a "moderator" must upgrade your status.
Since this is not a paid position, you just need one to happen by and upgrade you. 
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Joined:
May 2016
Posts: 11
| Thanks Old Man Arthur! My son listened to the clips, and decided he'd rather have the Mighty Mite Motherbuckers in his Viper. (I hope that doesn't offend, but I see lots of folks on here swapping out pickups, so I doubt it....) I'm going to have him consider the Lace P90's too. Those original pickups are BRIGHT, though. Thanks for your help! |
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Joined:
December 2006
Posts: 6994
Location: Jet City | post away! |
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Joined:
December 2006
Posts: 6994
Location: Jet City | Here's sample I prefer....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPYC9ZAfliY
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Serial # search and suggestions for a newbie with a Viper.