Suggestions for ST-1 upgrades

[Walrus]

For me upgrading the tuning machines is a given. It’s better for a learner to have a guitar that is easy to tune and stays in tune. I’ve used Wilkinsons mostly and have had no issues. Also for a learner using an ST, I’d suggest taking Rob Chapman’s advice and block the whammy bridge. This will make it a pseudo hard tail, but whammys are a distraction to beginners anyway. It will also help him develop better finger strength, better technique etc. When his skills improve you can look at upgrading the pickups and electronics to make it sound better.

That seems really sensible, thanks for the tips. Tuners is definitely easy....and I've removed the whammy anyway - it's just a bad idea unless the bridge is quality.

[Walrus]

depending on the quality of the stock ones

The stock ones on this guitar are actually ok - but there is enough movement in a couple of them to warrant replacing.