I have a used Mex Strat in mint condition. I have tried adjusting the pickups, but to no avail. I get about half the volume out of the first string
as I get from the others. Should I look into a new set of pickups or is this a common quick fix problem ? It is most prominent when switch is in any position but bridge pickup (last position). I tried new strings -flat wound light then medium gauge. Nothing helps. I appreciate your help.

A few things to check out:

1. Does this happen acoustically - with the guitar unplugged?

2. If it's only when the guitar is plugged in, is there just a particular pickup that does this?

3. Does it happen even with fretted notes or only when the 1st string is open?

Depending on the above answers it could help point to the problem.



Cheers,

Snowy

Have you tried replacing that string with a new one? Old strings can be a little dead sounding.

Is the problem apparent on all pickup settings, and open and fretted notes on that string?

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Obligatory gear list: Fender, Rickenbacker, Gibson, Gretsch, Vox, Martin, and more Fender.