I purchased my Strat a couple weeks ago and I want to change the strings to some Ernie Ball regulars. It is a MIM Standard Strat. What gauge are the factory strings? I did a search and it seems that it would be a good idea for me to have a luthier change the strings as other adjustments will be needed. Is this only if I am changing the string gauge or even if I change strings of the same gauge? I don't want to pay someone for doing something that seems so easy but on the same hand I don't want to mess around with my guitar. I was thinking about getting a professional set-up (I know, I know, I should have done this as soon as I got the guitar but it was my first axe so it really didn't make a difference to me). I am thinking about just taking it in to get it set up and having them change the strings for me but for future reference, is this something I can do myself? Also, how much does it usually cost to have a professional set-up, around $40-50, correct? Do I just ask them for a "set-up" and specify how I want the action? I don't want to go in there and make an ass out of myself. :)