Does it matter what is says on the headstock? Guitar Branding | Real Guitar Talk

[@DisappearingNightly]

"Loving guitars means you've got to love the cheap ones as well" -- Mark Knopfler For many of us, the joy of taking an inexpensive guitar and making it into something uniquely our own, a truly one of a kind instrument that looks, plays and sounds great can be far more rewarding than a brand name on a headstock.

[@Emmie_McMahn]

THAT SAID IT ALL 🙂

[@gregorylumpkin2128]

What matters most is that the player bonds with the instrument because this allows the magic to happen.

[@barbmelle3136]

From Leo: I worked part time in several shops over decades. I often said if we tied a small cloth bag to the headstocks and had customers try multiple guitars, they would be surprised at what they really liked. Too many people only like the guitars that social circles tell them to like. I am not saying to buy junk, but there are many different makers for every shape and style

[@Toobzilla]

no truer words have ever been speaked..

[@spoonysmalls]

I love my Jag bass, but i love my Talman bass more!

[@josephcorcoran8714]

Well, In some ways the popular brands became popular due to quality.

[@jimm7949]

Should it? No. Does it to me? Yes. It’s part of the playing experience for me.

[@888jimm]

It just does😂

[@warthogA10]

That word, "experience", and even the phrase "it's part of the experience" has been set into the minds of consumers by advertisers for a long time. Many brands have used it, including Apple to justify high prices. It all feeds on the consumers deep need, desire, obsession and addiction to being trendy, to the point they will spend any amount of money within their power to possess the product, and this is how they justify it in their mind. As far as music equipment goes, if you're a professional musician, who makes a good living in any variety of ways within the industry, such high priced equipment makes sense.. especially if you're being paid to help promote a brand. .. or if you're a high end collector who purchases specific items as an investment, mostly if you have a knack for knowing which models will stand the test of time/popularity and increase in value over time. .. and yes, even if you just have a passion for a product for any number of reasons as well (such as the craftsmanship).. and you have the money to spend on them. I have been playing since I was 4yo, I'm 55yo now, I have played quite a few very expensive instruments over that time, but I have never purchased/owned one, and not due to lack of means to own one. I've played every price range out there, and I own "a few" low and mid range instruments which look, sound, and perform just as well as any high priced instruments, .. so "no" the brand name doesn't matter at all in a logical sense Any truly talented/skilled musician can sound just as good, and entertain an audience regardless of the brand name on the instrument. The most important part of it all comes down to each individuals personal preference/reasons, neither is "wrong" The "wrong" part comes from those who choose a brand name solely for the social status, and proceed to put down others who don't for whatever the reasons, which is just the way 'society' seems to work.

[@madiomega13]

Being a headstock mark is weirdo behavior

[@UNIRockLIVE]

Obviously, the advertising brainwashing obviously worked with you

[@AaronShorr85]

Guitar industry's billion dollar marketing firms affected you

[@williamhoppe4500]

What an excellent and thought provoking presentation. I'm 74 and on a limited income now. I bought a couple of Tease Guitars because I like Torsten and you folks who demoed them. I've had all the big brands throughout my life and most of it is a head trip and fun. Thanks

[@readysetmoses]

It does, of course it does. Maybe not to the sound, but to my eyes every time I look at it. Superficial sure, but it is what it is.

[@MoonshineDrone]

I’ve got multiple PRS’s and Gibsons but my favorite guitar is the guitar that started it all for me…an epiphone les Paul black beauty. I bought it when I was 15 and I’m 39 and it’s still my go to guitar. I fuckin love that thing and I wouldn’t get rid of it for anything.

[@restofthejunk01]

To me, yes it does matter....growing up and watching my hero's playing guitar made me want to aspire to own one of these iconic guitars and now I do own both Fender and Gibson guitars I'm immensely proud to play them on stage myself.

[@drewarmstrong2333]

This encapsulates how I feel about Rickenbacker guitars. To me, seeing some of my favorite artists since I was young play Ric’s and hearing those sounds made me get into them. Not only for how they look, and the brand but there aren’t many other guitars around that sound like them. Played many knockoffs, but came to the conclusion the only “real” way to get that sound and look was just to buy the real thing.

[@flogginga_dead_horse4022]

yep

[@Fregulus5]

I have a Fender Jazz, Squier Precision and a Rickenbacker 4003 bass, and they all sound wonderful in their own way. But I always feel a bit more "magic" when I play the Rick because my favorite bassists used Ricks at one time or another. And even though Geddy will always be my fave bassist, I went with the Fireglo 4003S rather than the more Geddy-like Jetglo, because I always loved the look of Roger Waters' Rick in the early Syd Barret days of Pink Floyd.

[@budgetguitarist]

Great topic. I'm saving up for a black Epiphone Les Paul Custom with gold hardware. It's $799. It's got that cool headstock with the 4 triangle shapes - it's a very iconic look. And the headstock of this Epiphone has a very similar "open book" headstock shape to the Gibson. I could get a cheaper black Epi Les Paul, but it wouldn't have those same inlays. Would I pay $150 more just to have those iconic headstock inlays? In this case, yes, because I dreamed of this guitar as a young teen. Would I pay $5,000 more to get the real Gibson version? HELL no. The older I get, the more I'm able to admit to myself and the world what's important to me and what isn't. And it's not always based on money or logic. So then why not get a Chibson? Because I'd rather have a real Epiphone than a fake Gibson. Nothing wrong with Epiphone.

[@JoeyJoJoJr51]

Might want to check out the used market for an Orville Les Paul Custom too. Real Gibson lineage, and you might get lucky and find one for only a little more than your new Epiphone price point. If you’re unfamiliar with Orville, it was a brand Gibson established in Japan in the 80s, producing Gibson designs for the Japanese market. They sat between Epiphone and Gibson USA on the hierarchy. Very highly regarded guitars, becoming collectible in their own right.

[@cgr88m]

I have that exact guitar youre wanting, i had to switch out the pots and switch cuz the chinese ones were horrible and i also threw in new burst bucker pickups i found used on reverb. So i spent an extra 350$ to make it sound like an actual gibson les paul

[@kurtallison1914]

​ Japanese guitars like Burny, Greco, Edwards and Fernandes are all pretty awesome .

[@adamw.7169]

Buy a japanese Tokai. They have the proper body shape, proper headstock, parts you can upgrade to Gibson. Absolutely superior to those terribly shaped Epiphones.

[@BonafideToolJunkie]

​​​@@cgr88m...I once owned that exact guitar. Very well made... but if I were buying it again, I'd choose white over black. Just like owning a black car, any dirt, scuff or scratch really stands out. Also, the gold hardware is thinly plated, wears off in a short period of time. If that doesn't bother you, not a big deal.

[@MAX96MENDES]

I prefer a quality made guitar over the headstock brand-name. If the guitar shape feels good in my hands, I like it and buy it.

[@JayceAllanGuitar]

Great video Jack, well thought out. So many things to unpack here. When I was a kid my parents certainly couldn't afford to buy me a Fender Stratocaster. I was happy just to get a usable guitar. My brother actually gave me a Skylark guitar (JC Penny) from Mitsumoku. Great guitar, dual humbuckers, heavy. I played that through a Peavy Rage 12 watt amp and I had a blast. I could care less what name was on the headstock. I did visit the local guitar shops though and play around with the gear. I was more interested in the pedals and amps and fancy effects processors than the guitars. That was the gear I wanted. I wanted my guitar to sound like Dave Gilmour with all the Reverb and Delay. Fast forward to the early 2010's and I found myself once again bit by the guitar bug. Brands didn't really come into focus until I started playing with a friend as an acoustic duo and I was going through all sorts of guitars to "find my sound" and settled on an Eastman brand acoustic. I went to this iconic guitar shop in Lansing Michigan called Elderly Instruments and played everything in my price range (about $600) and settled on that guitar. Then after a year or so, I decided that "people won't take me seriously as a musician unless I play a name brand guitar" so I bought a Taylor, and immediately sold it because didn't like how it played or felt in my hands (sounded great though). Then got a Martin, spent $1200 bucks on these name brand guitars. Played that for a while. Then one night at an open mic, a friend asked to use my guitar and it was my Eastman. I said "sure". I couldn't believe how good that guitar sounded. I had never heard it from the audience before! I sold the Martin. I just didn't bond with it. Oh, and my experience is, you lose between 1/3rd and half the value of any guitar you buy when you go to sell it, regardless of brand. I sold a Tease strat style guitar recently (the one that's about $120). Sold it for just under $100. Sold a GearIT strat that I got on Amazon for just under $100 for almost $90. Then sold a MIM Strat (with ungraded Fender branded pickups, so you're absolutely right about mods) for $500 (that guitar was worth about $800). But wow do people criticize me when I say cheaper no-name guitars can be just as good as Fender or Gibson. There is a lot of gatekeeping in the guitar community. My best advice, play what you like, what inspires you to play and practice. And if you need cash, sell it locally or take it to Guitar Center (save the seller fees and shipping).

[@csharp57]

You bring up a great point about being a gigging musician. We do want to be seen with what is considered quality instruments. But we should consider letting our skills shine to prove that some of these overseas made instruments can sound and play amazing. But…. There are times I wonder how much better a Gibson 355 would play in comparison to my Epiphone. It’s gotta be branding.

[@maximusindicusoblivious180]

@@csharp57 It use to be about the sound. How does a Squire Affinity Strat sound like a Fender American Stratocaster? It doesn't. Same with the Gibson and Epipi. It use to be a time when the sound mattered, now it's about other things I guess.

[@stanesposito2664]

My favorite Strats have been partscastors with no name on the headstock. I also have guitars by Fender, Gibson and my favorite Hamer. But to me, if it feels good and sounds good to me, it's good.

[@Ninjametal]

Here are my thoughts: as a teen, I wanted a Les Paul. I got a few low quality, bolt on copies because I couldn't afford a Gibson. The copies all sucked. I got into strats, but couldn't afford a Fender. I bought a Yamaha strat I loved and played the frets off of. Eventually I made some money, and shopped for a Les Paul....ended up trying a LP, a Heritage, and an Ibanez Artist Prestige. Bought the Ibanez because it played the best of those. Later I bought an American Standard Strat, (still love the strat) and an Epiphone LP Standard. The Epi was a good player, and I was happy with it until I could afford a used Gibson Custom Shop R9. The R9 is hands down the greatest guitar I've ever played. It has high resale, but I will own it until I die. (I gave the Epiphone LP to a friend who would play it.) This doesn't mean I'm snobby, as I bought an Epi SG afterwards, and put Gibson electronics in it. ...My last guitar purchase was a Zemaitis flying V, and it is amazing at any price. Very light, great fretwork, and fun to play. Sometimes we have to pay a lot to get a lot, but other times we don't.

[@thisistimwoods]

I have high-end guitars but I just got a tribute G&L ASAT Classic for 350 bucks. Bone nut, ash body, maple board and neck, US hardware and US MFD pickups, six brass saddles, ashtray bridge. It is a brilliant guitar, streets ahead of a player tele

[@cliffwarner7549]

Boom! Good for you! 😃

[@guitarplayer5805]

I have the USA ASAT Classic. Upgraded my tribute model for this and it was worth every penny. Did the same with my MIM Fender. The USA tele is noticeably better than the MIM but not as good as the Fullerton G&L.

[@thisistimwoods]

@guitarplayer5805 I don't doubt it. I have a Fullerton s-500 Deluxe and it's awesome. Nice guitar you have there!

[@davedoubleddykhuizen]

Fulltime working muso: the work instruments are a Burny Les Paul, Yamaha Revstar and Squier Jazzmaster. I love quality guitars that aren't investment/collector pieces, but they have to be vibey.

[@davidtalko-nicholas128]

Revstar - hands down the best value guitar available.

[@JohnZornAscended]

Vibezelect.

[@kiwistu]

Great video Jack. I am on a limited income here in New Zealand. I have discovered Artist brand guitars that are very affordable yet better quality than other guitars worth two or three times the price. This brand enables me to own four guitars that I can enjoy instead of just one name brand guitar. Works for me. As for shape, they do sell offset shape guitars but the ones I own are traditional. Thats just me.

[@Emmie_McMahn]

Same for me mate!!

[@jralanmorgan]

I am slowly getting over this. I recently acquired a firefly guitar in a trade and like everyone else cannot believe the quality. As you said about modifications, I like to do them myself as well and after I got it put back together it may be my favorite guitar I own.

[@jea783]

interesting subject. As a Strat player i never liked the thin neck. One day i bought a Jet JS 400 HSS and put a Dimarzio Super Distortion at the bridge. One volume , one tone and a «beefy» Canadian roasted maple neck for $400 . This guitar become the one i use to play almost while my Fender sleeps in its case . Bonus i play more often since .

[@jeremyharris4039]

Whether you think it does or doesn’t, to you, you’re right.

[@35mmballer]

Totally, all brands have different nuances in craftsmanship. Different brand guitars will have different ideal specialties and playabilities.

[@danovee9580]

It doesn't matter what the headstock says, but the way the instrument was constructed and plays does matter.

[@knotsable]

How i selected my guitar: i asked chatgpt what the cheapest guitar is from the wel known brands that is produced in japan. It came up with the Ibanez 652 prestige, and i happen to absolutely love the way it looks (nebula green burst) and plays, so i ordered it.

[@UnoUrong]

Buy cheap to see if you love it and sell cheap to pass onto someone else until you really know what is worth lots of money and worth keeping. For my part I buy cheap and revamp to enhance and give a second life to an instrument. I change all that needs to be changes to push it to it's best possible and I am happy with that. My average guitars and basses are now genuine and better playing and sounding than they were before. Not a good resale strategy but I got to learn how they are built and how to fix them. I don't care about the name on the headstock. Edit: Modding the guitar does not mean you can sell it for a higher price... Unless someone knows exactly what it's worth and wants that modification.

[@jimb2577]

Resale value is huge. How many guitars have had to been sold due to circumstances.

[@JohnZornAscended]

Close to 900,000 if I were to guess.

[@peterwilson8039]

But cheaper guitars are easier to sell, and it doesn’t matter as much if you take a bath on it.

[@fintubi]

Time adds a lot of perspective here. I bought a Tokai Strat copy in 1986 because I was 17 and couldn't afford a real Fender. At the time, I sure wasn't happy about the anti-lawsuit flat spot sanded on the headstock profile or the "Tokai" in spaghetti script. But that guitar has played great for four decades, and it has also appreciated a lot both in popular regard and in value. Now I've got a real LP and a spendy Taylor - but my Carvin CT6, a Takamine acoustic, and that old Tokai still speak to me more.

[@johnphillips4033]

I’ve had dozens of guitars in my lifetime, but I frequently go back to the Washburn A10 my Dad bought me when I was a kid.

[@StringTension]

Great video, I grew up in the early-mid 90's and no one had nice guitars (green day, nirvana, offspring). I have nicer guitars than all the bands I loved as a teen. My heroes played pawn shop instruments and I have three Gibsons.

[@guitarcafeguy]

The ones who have convinced themselves it doesn't matter will continue to believe that. The ones who have convinced themselves it does matter will continue to believe that.

[@JohnZornAscended]

Truth.

[@brianlagace2579]

When I first started playing, it meant a lot. If I'm seen playing a real Les Paul, I think I'm perceived by others as being a legit player. After many years, not so much. I play what I like - what sounds good and plays good. If i do my thing right it doesn't matter. I have a couple of blank headstocks, no one knows it costs more than a real thing - or less. later on they come up and say 'what guitar is that?'

[@ThatWhatIsNot]

Does it matter what it says on the headstock? No. Does the shape matter? Absolutely.

[@isthereanybodyoutthere9397]

Check out Paoletti Guitars. They might change your mind.

[@jeffharper2661]

Neither Brand and Shape does not matter as along as it is a quality instrument!!!

[@JimThompson-i3u]

Exactly. I need the design to complement the rest of the guitar. If the headstock proportions are off then I don't want the guitar. Same for a horrid headstock shape (D'Angelico I'm looking in your direction). Heritage guitars might be amazing players and very well built...but that headstock though. I'd need to pay a talented luthier to "correct" the design and proportions.

[@jdb2722]

Shape somewhat but pickup configuration and bridge.

[@leefradkin9077]

well balanced discussion!

[@gedcanonizado]

It shouldn’t but it does. It’s a testament as to how powerful marketing is. Great video as always!

[@joannatrinidad9358]

Yes it does, the wood that was used, the hardware and the craftmanship

[@MichaelRDahn]

I go through these loops of feeling like I want to buy a Gibson because, well, it's a Gibson (they go really hard on marketing for this sort of thing). And I really like the idea of buying an American-made instrument (because economically responsibly made instruments is important to me, too). And I think any of these more historic companies will lean heavily into their history as guitar makers, and how their products fit into the hands of the most earth-changing musicians over time. I think that alone is a huge mover in this whole talk. Even more so for vintage or vintage reissue guitars: "hey, own the exact kind of instrument that put this model/company on the map decades ago!" It's a powerful scheme.

[@doomwreckertelevision3527]

Look into the used market, also ones with consmetic defects or dings. Show floor models. Also, things like the LPJ or SGJ. Some years they are real nice. Tribute models are nice also.

[@doomwreckertelevision3527]

I have owned lots of epiphone sgs, from the cheap ones to custom shop ones, I have even owned a pro. My Gibson SGJ and Gibson SG TRIBUTE are by far superior in the hand... My sgj was a floor model with finish issues and some scratches... got it for 420 dollars. Best money I think I ever spent on a guitar. I no longer own any epiphone sgs. I dont hate them but I only got so much money. Epiphone and squier hold about as much value on the used market as a gibson or fender. If you are a serious musician get at least one gibson. If you are a student or just messing around, get the epiphone. If you are getting a LP or SG make sure to get the one with all the tone and volume knobs.

[@doomwreckertelevision3527]

Ive owned a few epiphone LPs, and one gibson LP studio. The only LP I still have is a studio LT. Got it for 200 bucks out the door. Floor model on sale. I play sgs more than lps, but I still like having one around.

[@williamknell864]

When was 18 or 19, I wanted a Strat. Had my first steady job. This was 1984 into 85. In shopping around, (non-interwebs), every Strat in my reach had a poly-enbalmed maple neck. The fretboard felt awful, with the finish seemingly pooled along the frets. I came upon a used Schecter Strat-shaped guitar with the headstock shape and size too. Bare rosewood fretboard with no dots, bright red (Dakota?) that didn't love. But it just felt so good. I'd seen Knopfler play one really similar, with a naked maple fretboard. It has 3 beefy, overwound single-coil that can be tapped to sound like a traditional Strat. So I guess I've opened for 40 years. I had and sold other Strats by Fender and Fenandes, a Guild Bluesbird and Epi Casino, a DeArmond M75T. I wish I'd kept the Guild. My hero players are Ry Cooder and (pre-smooth) Carlos Santana and Jim Campilongo. Knopfer and Jeff Beck are big Strat touchstones. Aside from playing a fair amount with my fingers, i cant claim play like either. I just love how versatile a Strat can be, especially with the tappable Anderson era electronics.

[@matthewvalenti1348]

I understand people enjoying the brand. I manage to avoid that generally myself; there’s a couple of brands that make a lot of stuff I really like (Ibanez, Schecter for example) but that’s more about the fact that they make a lot of different stuff I like vs the actual name. If I want a chug machine, they both offer that. If I want a more traditional style guitar, they both offer that. The big difference here is that they tend to have fantastic features for really good prices. That matters to me more than a headstock’s logo. Guitars have a price problem these days and the big brands especially (Gibson, Fender, Ernie Ball, etc) don’t really cater to the actual working musician with their price points. But with a lot of other brands, Yamaha, Schecter, Ibanez, Vola, etc., you can get absolutely exceptional guitars for under $1000 these days.

[@erestube]

If you swap out your stock pickups, pots, caps, tuners and pickguard, does it still matter what it says on the headstock?

[@guithawk-ij8is]

I picked up a Japanese Squier strat new in 1983 and gigged with it for over 40 years, never had to mod or make any adjustments, just routine maintenance. Plays better than the 1972 Fender strat I used to own and better than many Fenders I have tried over the years. I own several vintage Gibson's, Gretsch's, a PRS, and that Squier is one of the most reliable and playable guitars I own.

[@Paul_Lenard_Ewing]

I am 77 and squeaked by my whole life playing ONLY original tunes in the U.S, Canada and the UK. I now have 10 guitars that were all bought not for the brand though some are brands that I happened on cheap . I got them because they had good bones. Even in the last 10 years most were around $300.00 USD each, a few I swapped for. All are modded. Most are U.S. or MIJ but I have had a UK and a Canadian guitar. All are over 20 years old . In some cases 30 and 40 years old. The secret is most are models that were not considered cool when new. Like a MIJ Washburn or my Fernandes Native Pro or a Dano made Silvertone. Even a sun yellow Harmony H88 Stratotone Doublet, lol. Heavy solid ash body ,maple neck and sustains forever. All have a cool factor. It is a very rare gig someone does not come up to me and admire my guitars. When and often I take all 10 to a gig. They put on 10 times the show some cheesy flashing lights do. I consider them all tools in my tool box. Does a carpenter or plumber worry about the resale of his hand tools???

[@andrewdeen1]

the worst thing about squiers and epiphones are that they say "squier" and "epiphone" - other than that I love them.

[@jeffreyRfike]

Epiphone and Ibanez my go to brands. Both offer great value and reasonable quality manufacturing for reasonable prices in the midrange. Suprisingly, I can't recall ever losing money on either when selling, actually on any guitar. I know I'v gotten stupid lucky a few times. Gotta get the deals when you can! Thanks for great insight and ideas, Jack.

[@ojaisherpa]

I stick with a couple boutique builders these days after owning a horde of Gibsons and Fenders. I like the attention to detail from a single luthier

[@jimmythefish]

I gotta say I love my Gretsch Electromatic semi hollow. It's not an expensive guitar by some standards but it's just awesome and it does pretty much everything I want it to.

[@kenjones2973]

Bought a 68 custom Teli in 1974 (22 y.o.) plus a 60w right valve amp for Aus $170 dollars. Very early CBS, lovely fat C neck, modified big time in other areas. Belly scooped, sloped arm rest face, bridge pick up (original), and body modded to take what looked like it might have been a p90 style p/u. Pots, switch, jack and all body hardware original. Swopt out the Bridge pickup, kept it and dropped in a Dimarzio pre BS,Tele and as the body had already been routed, Fenders new Humbucker. The body had been sprayed with a grey primer sometime in its very busy on the road past. I also swapped out the nickel plated 3 bridge pieces and popped in brass ones made by Fender. Then I just played it, and I loved that guitar. Sold it 20yrs, later financial distress etc. I still grieve not having that Telecaster. One of the worst moves I ever made. To me, it being a Fender was very important.

[@MrSoulauctioneer]

For a very very long time the biggest price paid for an electric guitar was 1 million USD. It was a Washburn Falcon built for Bob Marley and gifted to a friend by Bob. It was that connection that garnered the price. But Washburn Wing Series from the late 70s/early 80s have held their value and Falcons specifically greatly increased. I bought mine used with 1 EMG installed in the late 80s for 250 bucks. If you're lucky enough to find one for sale(nobody wants to get rid of them) snatch it up if you can afford it. They increased in value by 300-400 percent. In most cases, only guitars that have been played by famous hands increase in value like that.

[@dalecoffing8655]

In the past I have purchased guitars and amps for specific purposes. I was a 12-string acoustic guitar player for several years. After retirement from my job in 2011one of the things I wanted to do was play more. I've played at church for well over 20 years. This led to playing a Tak 12 in a gospel group for several years. It was my main axe and I really bonded with that guitar. Mainly because it was my only guitar. As opportunities came along I was asked to play for a musical. A high school production of Anne. It was tough but I really enjoyed the challenge. I have since played for several shows some we got paid some we did not. Many times, the scores in these shows ask or recommend a certain type of guitar. (i.e. steel acoustic, Tele style, semi-hollow, nylon etc.) Directors expect you to match that as closely as possible. I now own 6 different types of guitars that fill that need. Three of them are name brand. One Fender Tele, a 660-12 Ric and a Martin steel acoustic. The other three are a Tak-12, Epi Sharton ii and a knockoff nylon. They are all great at fulfilling the need to cover the job for which I'm called to do. It is typical to have at least 3 of them for a given show in the pit. I enjoy playing them all. So, does the brand make a difference? Yes and no. It is more about finding the right guitar that can cover the need regardless of who's name is on the headstock. As long as I bond with the guitar, and it sounds good is all that really matters regardless of who's name is on the headstock. Sorry for the epistle/ramblings. Great vid Jack.

[@kisschicken]

Everything I own is an iconic American guitar for the reasons you mentioned: resale value and history. Though I've spent so much time trying to sound like my heroes, I hope that one day I can choose a relatively obscure brand and make my own sound/image.

[@johnperiard9594]

Im a brand guy. Im not into the 'new' stuff unfortunately for me. Probably missing out on a lot of great stuff. But, give me the tried and true! Also like getting a niche guitar (micro-frets. older Edwards or 77 Greco) that has a "wow factor". Great video!

[@Kevin-mx1vi]

I'm reminded of Leland Sklar's "Frankenstein" no brand bass that was made from parts. Almost certainly the most recorded bass ever and still the one he takes to sessions, so it's obviously pretty darned good ! Personally I have three basses, but the one I reach for is the cheapest - a Squier Affinity PJ bass - that I picked up in the store just out of curiosity but bonded with right away because it felt so perfect for how I play. I didn't care about the brand because I knew I'd regret it forever if I left the store without it.

[@shanewalton8888]

Sound good, play WELL

[@crucifixgym]

Sometimes it matters, I have weird brand guitars that play really well, but have their own sound so they are great tools; having a few guitars to choose from is better than just one name brand guitar.

[@JFrit67]

Like anything else in life, get the best you can afford. There are many budget-friendly brands/models on the market today, and just a many in between the custom shop/vintage stuff. Something for everyone. And of course, we have a thriving secondhand market to choose from. Shop around. I have a deep interest in the classic American brands and their histories, so yeah, I own a Gibson and a Fender. Definitely matters to me.

[@russellc2371]

Great insights. The golf analogy is very apt. I also think about what separates a Fender custom shop guitar from a production line guitar. A lot. And the custom shop guitar is probably closer to a non-Fender boutique copy than a Fender branded production line guitar.

[@warthogA10]

I have a decent collection of guitars (mostly mid range price), Out of them all, my #1 go to, the one I grab most often, is a black 2001-ish First Act strat which I bought for my son when he was young from Walmart for $60. It's well built, sounds great, stays in tune very well, and is the most comfortable, and smooth guitar I have ever played. I have a personal joke of "man they must have really screwed up when they made this one.. it's fantastic!" 😂 This is coming from someone who's been playing for 51 years (not all of them on a professional level) 😁 .. and has played all price levels of guitars.

[@Theactivepsychos]

I’d vice anything to have my washburn hb35 back. I’ve never liked to own loads of guitars so I always sell to buy but that guitar I had was so good. Every other Ive tried hasn’t had the same growl that one had. Not sure if it was modified or what.

[@squid667]

The reason why my favorite guitar is the Gibson SG is Angus Young. After hearing the music and seeing him play it on the record cover it was done. I decided that I had to start playing guitar, and one day I would have a Gibson SG. I saved up for an Epiphone first, as a real Gibson could just as well have cost a million to a 14 year old kid. I played it every day for years afterwards and had plans to buy a Gibson one day. I originally wanted a really expensive one, but after trying one that was worth almost 4 times what I paid for the Epiphone I noticed that it was not 4 times as fun to play it. And it did not make me play any better. And I was still far away from actually affording something like that. I ended up buying a Gibson after playing the Epiphone for 7 years. It was the very cheapest model that was available, the SG Special Faded, and I found it at a clearance sale in a webshop that was going out of business. It actually ended up not being that much more expensive than the Epiphone. This is my favorite instrument of all time and I have played it for 16 years. I have also modded it to my liking, and have worn off almost all the paint. I do not care at all about resale value because I am not going to sell it. I have also taken a strong liking to Squier Stratocasters over the years. The Stratocaster I wanted because of Ritchie Blackmore, Jeff Beck and Terje Rypdal. But also because my dad had a Squier Stratocaster when I was a kid. There is definitely some superficial brand recognition there. I notice that I tend to overlook the other cheaper brands. One very convenient thing is that it is the best selling budget brand in my country. So it is easy to find them used at good prices. And when I can find a really cheap and worn out one I can mod it to the unrecognizeable with good conscience and without spending too much money. And if they are good enough for a guy like Jack Pearson, they are more than good enough for me.

[@zoeherriot]

For resale value… yes. Absolutely.

[@lucianopazos286]

Brand used to matter because they implied certain quality. But all know that is not the case anymore. Plus, when good music was made, only a few "professional" instruments existed. So we feel that connection. We are lucky now to live in a world where excellent guitars are everywhere. And cheap.

[@alxra]

My daughter has a friend who was kicked out of one of those interscope girl bands out of Seattle last year. She played a Squire telecaster and they told her she needed to get a Fender mustang or jazzmaster. She refused so they said adios. Kind of reminiscent of "Mean Girls."

[@TheWelhaven]

A guitar that make you happy, is the right guitar no matter what the headstock says. My #1 is a MJT partcaster with a decal that says «Welhaven» aka my nickname. My friend and I basically bought the same guitar, an Eclipse with Evertune and active pickups. He bought a brand new LTD for $2150, I bought a used E-II for $1660. Both are excellent guitars, and we’re both equally happy 😊 ps: People do want the Fender and Gibson logo (or Squier and Epiphone) on the headstock. You can’t even give away a Harley Benton here in Norway. Never seen one in real life. Pps: I also own a Collings 290. Holy moly it’s a nice guitar, it is so nice I’ll probably never bring it outside the house. So we’re back to my MJT partcaster again.

[@larriveeman]

if it sounds good then it is good, no matter what brand

[@florisvanlingen]

You can have your own opinion, but I'd argue that the look and feel of the instrument ar equally as important as the sound, if not more important. The feel and playability allow you to play more easily. The looks draw you in and have you pick up the instrument in the first place. The sound can be changed for the most part. Of course part of the sound is the construction and quality of the parts, but a good setup and some new electronics can vastly improve a mediocre sounding guitar.

[@monkofwar]

I love Fender guitars, the name, the history, the genius of it’s founder Leo, made in the USA means everything to me. I like other guitar companies too, as long as they’re made in the USA. I also like made in Japan, and some Mexican made guitars. I don’t like the cost of American made though, especially anything custom shop, and especially not Gibson custom shop scam guitars.

[@AlecBourneMidiMadScientist]

Brand names to me mean absolutely nothing, nor does the country of origin, but only in the context that I can actually try it first and that usually entails a shop where I can really try it out, and another 10 guitars either side of it. Historically I’ve only bought 2 new guitars of the 11 I own, the rest were second hand and were chosen from a pool that extended from basically cheap to 3 times what I was prepared to actually pay. The one that actually worked in my hands and spoke to me, that’s the one I’d get every single time - if it was way over budget but THE one, I’d pay down what I had and go back again and again and again and keep looking, never once did others speak to me in the same way and eventually it’d end up on my stand with a deeper history behind it. The very idea of selling it on for cash has never crossed my mind, I’d sooner gift it, or trade it to another person for whom that same guitar became their “the one” . Our tastes change inevitably, space is limited as is storage, so you rehome them eventually- then go buy another one.

[@otherworldsnaps]

I think Sire is a good brand to think about with this discussion. They make good instruments at very reasonable prices, but they just don’t have the cool factor of a real Gibson IMO. I totally agree with you that specs and quality come first (one reason I’m hesitant about Fender right now), but “cool factor” is important too, like you were talking about with body shape, etc. The playing experience is both in your hands and in your head. I’ve really been enjoying these “Real Guitar Talk” videos. Thanks for posting this series!

[@kennywaynebearhead]

I’ve yet to find a guitar that plays and sounds as good as a Gibson Les Paul. That’s been the case since 1978 for me. I’ve played everything under the sun and I’ve owned dozens of guitars over the years and have genuinely sought to find “The One” only to realize that my Les Pauls are at home waiting for me to plug ‘em in.

[@JAL-cc8jd]

I have over 25 guitars, ranging in price from $119 to over $2,500. Everything from Leo Jaymz to several Gibsons, a Heritage, a couple Eastmans, a Vintage, several Michael Kellys, a Schecter, a Gretsch, a Hagstrom, a Danelectro, an unbranded LP from Brandon’s Custom Shop, and 2 Tease guitars. I love all of them and have modded most of them to make them uniquely mine and because I wanted to try out different pickups, etc. I have also had some Yamahas, a Sire, several Epiphones, a couple Fenders, and a Squier. Though my favorite brand is Gibson, it’s not simply because of the name or the headstock. They really are fantastic guitars and just have a mojo that the others don’t quite have but some come close, like the Heritage and the Eastman. I just love a great guitar, regardless of name or price. For the money, I will say I agree with you regarding Tease guitars. They are fantastic and an absolute bargain in my opinion. Both of mine were great right out of the box and won’t need any mods anytime soon. Plus their customer service is awesome and you can deal directly with the owner. I’m excited to see how they grow and evolve as a brand.

[@mywaveinwoodswoodperfumes]

I currently play squiers standard strats. between 2001-2010 models and they are awesome

[@csharp57]

Nice timely conversation topic. Epiphone just announced a gold top ‘55 LP with the open book headstock. Just recently I’ve been gassing for a Gibson LP with P90s. I’m having this internal debate whether to get this new offering, grab a used GT from reverb or just get a r6 brand new. I already own two Gibson LPs, so the brand name thing has been satisfied. I have the Gibson/Epiphone inspired 335, so I know what to expect in terms of quality. But if money is no issue, I’d get a lightly aged Murphy Lab Gold Top. I am 100% influenced by the legends of the guitar world. So much to unpack with this topic.

[@jroobz]

Unpopular opinion... it absolutely matters what's on the headstock! The guitar's got to grab you, simple as that. Its design isn't a moot point - you either want to play it or you don't. It's all about that feeling - the name, the shape, the sound, the build quality, the history, the whole package needs to excite you. Legitimacy is important too, and if the headstock's part of that, it matters.

[@erestube]

So you drive a Ferrari?

[@csharp57]

It matters because the branding and imprinting is doing its job. I look at high priced Gibson guitars and think, why do I want to raise $7000 or more for a guitar that probably won’t feel or play any better than what I have now? I own firearms. As my skill got better I wanted to own the best, so I paid $4000 for a semi custom. After using it for a while, I realized one of my other guns did the job just as well and cost thousands less. But the journey to that knowledge could only come from owning the $4000 firearm.

[@byMRTNjournals]

The best guitar I own is a 6 string bass from Ali express. Its an Ibanez btb clone. It says "Gstyle" on the headstock. I sanded it off. The bass sounds amazing, plays amazing, has incredible tone and sustain, I can't flaw it apart from string spacing being a bit tight. I own esp ltds, Ibanez, squier and Harley Benton. Gstyle is the best. And I sanded it off.

[@jroobz]

@@erestube I'm not saying it needs to be a luxury item

[@briansmith6862]

The name on the headstock is indeed important. That's exactly why I gravitate to Sire, these days. Incredible quality/price ratio, and fantastic playability. No need for me to waste my money anymore. I have a few great guitars from the 80s and 90s, but I rarely touch them as my Sires invariably do a better job.

[@billydworrell8259]

A real accurate statement about being influenced by our guitar heroes. It happened to me purchasing a EPIPHONE Firebird, basically soley on me being a big fan of Johnny Winter. Upon receiving it , I found it took some getting used to. But once I got acclimated to it , I LOVE IT. Can I play like Johnny Winter or Allen Collins???? Not a chance, but the tone is there to enjoy. As for Taylor Made golf clubs,, They are the Whip.

[@adamfindlay7091]

You're correct. Music is always about the feel. It does help if the chunk of wood stays in tune some what. I had a Hagstrom that ws beautifully playable as was a DeArmond. Def getting another one.

[@aminahmed2220]

Awesome video have a great weekend Jack my best friend ❤😊

[@basicforge]

I have an old lawsuit Les Paul that has no branding at all, anywhere. When I bought it it had Maxon and Dimarzio pickups, but I removed those because they were in bad condition. It has a mother of pearl diamond motif on the headstock, and nothing else. Cool guitar.

[@andrewbowen6875]

All I can say is I played a bunch of new Gibson acoustics that didn’t do it for me before finding a second hand J35 and I instantly loved it to the point where I can’t play anything else. Has a bouncy super light feel that no Epihone has imo

[@mariogonzales1064]

It’s nice to have a brand name if you ever want to re sell it.

[@Zoilu]

No. but like a nice shirt, or comfortable pants. Shapes and aesthetics are important to reflect what one's character are.

[@tommywallberg]

This goes way back in time and still is valid “ do want a copy or the real thing “ even if the copy is a stellar guitar. For instance Ibanez back in -70th was a poor man’s Porsche. I’m glad things has changed. I believe back in the days headstock names were more important. I have both American strat and les Paul but I just play my Sire H7 it’s worth every penny with some rather small adjustments. You’re right about what you’re saying 👍

[@VS-wg3ld]

The main issue I have with guitars that are "outside" the realm of tradition is body shape and proportion. There are only so many ways to make shapes work either symmetrical or complimentary. That is a huge reason why the main popular body shapes are the way they are, it's no just marketing. I'm open to guitars that are not copies of the traditional body shapes, but most of them seem to be more akin to emorphis blobs and illustration you see in a biology textbook rather than visually pleasing designs.

[@nikosmagnisalis6080]

I don't care about the headstock, but the shape matters. However I think it's a matter of taste. I love Les Pauls, but my dream one is blue... Haven't seen any "hero" playing a blue LP.

[@cliffwarner7549]

Wow, you covered a lot of ground pretty quickly there, Jack. In terms of Fender, the G&L brand which Leo moved to, offers some great competition to Fender. And thinking of Gibson, Heritage does a similar thing in terms of the quality of the "competition". I also think of Epiphone as a separate brand because there are some instruments that don't cross the line between the two - I'm thinking specifically of the Casino, the Jack Casady Bass and others. Still, resale price comes into play and the major brands still hold sway in the market. What you didn't say, but allude to, is that marketing influences us all as buyers. The difference between perceived value and resale value weighs huge in the conversation. I'm no exception. I recently bought a 1997 Fender Telecaster Plus Deluxe v2 because I have wanted one for a long time and I love it. By contrast I have a First Act VW GarageMaster which I consider a "novelty" and I take them both for what they are. - a totally different value if and when I might sell them, and different markets too. They both stretch my imagination and are also sometimes a little frustrating. That all comes down to me and my experience with different guitars. Or maybe it's where they inspire me to play. 😉 Thanks for taking the time to make this video! 😃✔

[@richardblake9103]

On the question of resale, my personal preference is to buy used. One of the few instruments I bought new is a Squier Strat. It's now 42 years old and I've never considered replacing it with a 'real' Fender. In my experience Tokai, G&L, Heritage and Eastman are all as good as their 'authentic' counterparts and substantially less expensive. A great deal of the market seems to play on the fostered sense of imposter syndrome. The happier one is with one's own playing, the less we need the 'thing' that will somehow make us part of the club.

[@TheBatman1986]

I played Hard Rock and Metal for years with Schechter. I still love my Demon-6 because it looks great and it sounds phenominal in studio, but since I have been playing more country music, I just could not get that twangy sound I was looking for from a Schechter, or any other brand. I saved up for 6 months and finally got my Fender American Pro 2 Telecaster, and man, right off the bat I am enjoying playing the guitar again because I'm getting the tone that I was looking for and hearing from all my favourite country players. I didn't buy the guitar because it was Fender branded, and I guess I could have gone for the Player series Tele, which would have probably done the same job, however - Resale value and quality were a big factor for me, because when I'm gone one day, I'd want my son to be able to play/keep his dad's guitar, or if he did want to sell it, it would have kept its value, or even gone up in value 20/30/40 years from now. There are many other guitars for $4000 I could have purchased probably, or even some other studio gear - there's always something else to spend your money on, right? But just like I learned in my days of being a tradie - If you want the job done right, you need the right tool for the job. Well, the Tele does that job well. Just like I wouldn't buy pedals that do many job averagely, but instead pedals that does one particular thing great. Awesome video and topic, thanks bro!

[@craigbrown9987]

Resale never used to be a thing for me until I tried to trade my Epi Casino to a local guitar shop last year. I bought it new, £700. Didn't get on with it, regretted not getting the Tele that I'd been mulling, and decided to move it on. Shop owner offered me £250! It was barely a year old, mint, barely played, but he said that was the going trade-in for an Epi Casino. Counterpoint: I bought a 25 year old Les Paul from a guy I work with - tobacco burst plain top and pretty much mint - £1,500. Is it worth it? Well, it sounds majestic and I've played it every day since I got it back in May, which is more than I can say for the Epi, so yeah, it was.

[@jimjim7008]

I tried both the Epiphone Gibson Les Paul custom inspired next to a Gibson Les Paul custom (custom shop) and I left the store with Gibson. Lot of money but no comparison in tone and playability. I rather have a keeper at home that I can enjoy playing rather than something I play for a little while then sell it. That's my personal opinion. Nice video thanks

[@uncledoug9934]

I bought an IYV semi-hollow body for $180. Frets ends not sharp. Intonation good, neck feels good, finish was surprisingly very good. and ...sounds good. Am I happy with it? Yes. Gig it all the time. Resale- I would be lucky to $100 but hey, it works for me. Played a couple of used Gretcsh streamliners at GC and fret ends were jaggy but played ok and cost more than twice what I paid for the Vietnamese IYV. In conclusion, play what you can afford and sounds good to YOU. Like buying store brand food vs. a national brand.

[@mortonwilson795]

This is a great thought provoking series. Resale was never a thing for me. I'm pretty sure I could sell my '68 Custom for quite a bit and maybe my 2 '92 Sadowsky's but in no rush as long I'm still recording with them. I'm happy to have 2 Gibsons, a nice Japanese made Gretsch, an early '80s FGN Strat with Roland GR 300 (that still works perfectly!) and 2 '70s Yairi acoustics but I also have a few 'budget' Epiphones with 'good bones' I bought with the intent of modding them to my tastes. I wouldn't buy a new Gibson these days due to cost vs. what they offer. I would love to have a couple of the Eastman line - I tried the SB59/v & a Juliet and they are on my wish list. And yes, I would love a vintage Rick 12 String and a couple of other vintage name brand items but who wouldn't? I guess I fall in the middle - some brand loves and some not so 'desirable' - they all have a job to do for now.

[@GPLP335]

Great discussion. As an older player I'd say bonding with a guitar is key along with it not breaking the bank, especially for younger players. A good player can make just about anything sound good. There's a cool video with the great Jeff "Skunk" Baxter (played with Steely Dan, the Doobie Bros, and long time session player). He bought a $25 guitar in a music store crap heap and then used it on a hit record. Fortunately, there are lots of options for players today on any budget. Just play!

[@JackFossett]

Don’t disregard the power that lies in his mustache. It’s like Sampson’s hair. Ever see him shave? Me neither.

[@GPLP335]

@@JackFossett LOL...Good one!

[@maynardbrownstone4108]

I agree with your assessment on all this. I still buy Fender guitars and amps because I still love them and I feel the quality remains great. Now, I own a few Harley Benton and Firefly guitars that I really like and enjoy just as much!! They all play great and love them all equally but my if I was n a pinch I can sell my Fenders quickly. You can't sell any other guitar and get a fast turn like you can with a Fender or Gibson. I don't care who they are. Most men buy a Rolex watch for the same reason.

[@Mtn603]

I’ve got a couple Squiers/Epiphones in the collection. They’re tools. They don’t inspire me in the same way the top tier axes do. And from a practical standpoint, they always seem to have more issues. You can upgrade the heck out of them, until they’re nearly as nice as their big brothers, but then you’ve spent nearly as much as a higher end instrument, still have the S or E on the headstock, and still have limited resale. But if you find one that speaks to you, that plays and sounds great, more power to you, get after it.

[@angusyoung7668]

I have 2 Epiphone SGs and they rock!!!!

[@t0msie]

This video speaks to me. I just ordered probably the most expensive guitar I'll ever own. Yamaha SG1802 gold top. A les paul USA with P90s would be more than twice the price, and I know in my heart which guitar will be better in every way: The headstock won't say "Gibson" tho...

[@matthewf1979]

The history and Americana is more important to me than one individual player. I love the Reverb Nerdville episodes. Joe B is a much cooler guy than he lets on to be in my book.

[@shanewalton8888]

Brands matter when they got patented parts (Strandberg necks, Fender Noiseless pups, Aritides Aruim molds) not available on other guitars.

[@r1208]

The name on the headstock doesn’t matter, but there is a noticeable difference in quality, even between Squier and MIM Fenders. And the quality and sound of the guitar is the deciding factor for me.

[@ClassicVibes_69]

Great topic! In my opinion, there’s a very practical/technical factual side of the story, and there’s an emotional one. I tend to lean to the last one. Gazing for hours at a Fender catalogue, remembering the smell of the paper and the sheer looks and feel of a red Strat, even just lying there in it’s case…And yes, Hank had one, and Mark too, somewhat a wannabe kind of thing. I have to admit, my Fender Strat Plus from the ninetees plays more smooth and has become a friend for life, my Squier Classic vibe also has it’s charms…Kinda cool to make a statement with that thing. In the end, It must be a thing called ♥️ for 🎸

[@JackFossett]

When I started playing guitar was 2004 and I had the Fender 50th anniversary Stratocaster catalog. I practically remember every page.

[@MakerMark13]

My Heritage (made at the Gibson Kalamazoo MI shop on the same equipment that made all those famous 59 burst) and it is my best playing and sounding guitar, my number one! BUT, it never gets all the ooohs and aaahs like my Gibson Les Paul Cardinal red with black appointments, it’s a sharp looking and playing guitar. Then there my most played (on a daily bases) guitar which is an Epiphone Ghost Horse Explorer because it’s got a Floyd Rose I never have to tune it, I don’t HAVE to put it in a case because it’s poly which would survive a small explosion oh and… yep, it plays great!! They all play great, all with very different perceptions of value

[@AvroBellow]

I fell in love with Godins because they sound as good or better than Fenders and Gibsons that I could reasonably afford. I also love the fact that they're less common which makes me more unique than the rabble with the Fenders and Gibsons.

[@JackFossett]

GREAT group. All the Godin brands. I love them.

[@jjerkamillo]

I'm not one of those lucky folks you often see online who says they picked up a pawn shop Squier for $120 and it plays better than a $5500 custom shop guitar. My 2 main guitars are both American made instruments that play and sound amazing, and they both have BRAND names on the headstocks. When I see other players on stages I don't concern myself with their guitar of choice if they sound great, I actually get envious I've never found a diamond in the rough myself.

[@lawdawg02actual]

The video I literally just watched before this was an old interview with Eddie Van Halen talking about building his Frankenstrat. The body and neck came from Charvel and he paid about $150 for them. He said he wanted a Strat but loved Gibson’s tone. He said at one point the headstock had a Gibson logo sticker on it. I don’t guess it matters much if it plays well and sounds good. And if you have talent like EVH.