How does the setup of the instrument and other rig components affect the sound?
The correct setup of the instrument as well as any component of the rig is very important. Like in playing there are no insignificant things here. In my answers to previous questions, I have already described basically how the height of the strings can affect the sound in general.
In the same way, the sound will change significantly with the different setup of the truss rod, bridge springs (in the case of a floating bridge version), and all this will give a different sound and feel from the instrument. Change one of those parameters just slightly and the whole sound will change at once. Vary the height of the pickups and you will understand why it is also so important. No doubt, that the instrument setup affects the sound (if you want to get the right* sound) most of all. After all, you play directly on it. But all other components can add or reduce nuances the instrument possesses. A good surge protector and power unit will allow you to hear the sound in its most correct form. And this means that it will give you the ability to set up the amplifier and the other components of your rig very precisely. Naturally, if your cables have excellent conductivity and very low resistance, they will allow you to hear the full sound without any loss and to achieve the best settings.
There are many more factors affecting the sound and therefore settings. For example tubes in amplifiers.
But how to choose all this and set it up correctly? Is it a matter of experience or talent?
The answer is always before your eyes. If you have talent, you hear music inside of your head. And although everything that you have ever heard affects your mind, your personal sound will be brighter and louder than anything else. You will have to study hard to develop your talent. With only the talent you can play and sound good on an amateur level. But for the true level, something much more is required. At least you should have a perfect playing technique. If you have not got it, you will be like a blind on a minefield. What experience can we talk about then? Perfectly mastered the instrument, you will know exactly what sound do you need. A little experience and you will not mistake in settings.
*the right sound — is the sound that allows you to achieve a maximum range, timbre color, dynamics, articulation, and therefore intonation.
