Fender Player Telecaster - Is This The Real Thing? - Electric Guitar Review

[@theguitaristas]

SCAMMERS ALERT: Thanks for dropping in just a quick note about the scammers... someone is impersonating me on Telegram using my name and icon replying to comments. I don't give out prizes so you've won nothing... if they contact you tell them where to go!!

[@jameshunt4339]

not just you mate. ive had them from justin guitar as well

[@johnsmith-sm6mh]

I had that too on the TPS show Good man for alerting 👍🏻

[@michaelmadron8654]

It's a shame they can hide. If we had an address we could leave them a paper bag of dog crap on the porch lite it on fire and ring the doorbell. 😃

[@johnfritz15]

Seriously, who uses Telegrams anymore?

[@theguitaristas]

@@johnfritz15 Telegram is a messaging app these days... a bit like what's 'WhatsApp' but Telegram is where all the scammers and scumbags hang out apparently!

[@garyzambo6647]

I’ve had this guitar for a year now and am extremely impressed.That switch problem I’ve never had a problem with and I love those tuners.The sound as well is great.Easiest guitar to play that I have.I play it 1 hour a night Mon to Fri.2 hours each sat and sun.Will keep this puppy forever.

[@ohesquire]

I rarely comment on videos, but wanted to say that I've been watching your channel for a number of months, and it's really great. Down to earth, measured and insightful, a real highlight in my viewing week. Thank you for all the time and effort that you put in. Best, Olly.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Olly, that's really appreciated 🙏 thanks for the kind words and support! 😁👍

[@jamescuttsmusicjcm5013]

@@theguitaristas just about the same story for me too. nice work man! :D.

[@kurikokaleidoscope]

That's a lovely comment ⚘

[@gergnotsloh]

Best guitar channel on YT in my humble opinion.

[@aitken1965]

Yes, I too look forward to each new video 🙂

[@azt3ca]

I went down the “finding the perfect tele” rabbit hole a while ago and after having from Squier to Fender Custom Shop (and almost everything in between, USA, mim, mij,) I ended up making a partscaster using an original fender neck. This was the one that worked out the best for me.

[@pharmerdavid1432]

That's the way to go, get everything right, many of the most famous guitars are parts casters: SRV "#1" and "Lenny". Eric Clapton "Black". David Gilmour's black strat.

[@jonathanhandsmusic]

I did the same thing with a squier cv body,and a fender neck(fat 50s style), new bridge and tuners. Now it’s my only Tele.

[@lourencocordeiro6440]

I went through the same path some years ago and ended up with a MIJ Tokai. Amazing.

[@slider3215]

Ive owned telecasters since 1974. I recently played a Mexican Player tele at a jam night and I have to say it was one of the best guitars I have ever played.That was white too.

[@mattgurney3756]

Best guitar reviews on KZbin for me, the perfect mix of honesty,humour and a chilled out relaxed vibe with no agendas. Keep up the good work sir 👏 👍

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Matt that’s appreciated! 😁🙏

[@Remsterdam]

I love my Player series Strat and Tele, they are the sweet spot between price and quality, above this line you don’t get that much more for your money. I have no problems with these tuners and knobs and get a real Tele twang sound. The Telecaster is my favorite Fender model, next to my player i have a SQ CV60s Thinline and a SQ CV70s DeLuxe. Oh and a Chapman ML3 semi-hollow with P90s which is awesome but then we are really in hybrid territory.. Thanks for the review, curious where this one ends up compared to the other ones reviewed.

[@voiceofexperience]

I definitely have a more favourable impression regarding this model than you did, Col. It's versatility is what sells it for me: with the right pedals, you can use it effectively for literally any style of music. It's a good-sounding, practical working musician's instrument. Says so right there on the label. Love the look of it too. One of the nicest "white on white" guitars I've ever seen. (Edit: I do, however, agree with your comment on Les Pauls... I could write an essay on all the reasons I loathe them!)

[@bluesdude1194]

I have the exact same guitar and I love it. I don’t know what drew me to a Telecaster but I bought that one and couldn’t put it down. It’s a fantastic guitar and played straight out the box. Love the channel and keep up the good work.

[@Tarantula_Fangs]

Same here, I mentioned in one of my other comments that I have a pretty expensive guitar, yet I keep coming back to my Player. The Player just sounds better to me, I love the tones I get from it compared to my high end guitar. I don’t really mind if it’s not the highest quality made instrument, just that I can take it out and play; and sounds good to me. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@michaelkitzmuller1479]

Richie Kotzen in 1991

[@turkhollinger2195]

I know its been a year since this post but I gotta say, I loved the look of this guitar and just got mine today lol Keep up the great work! I honestly love the way you thoroughly go through the guitars and give a opinion.

[@GypsyLane]

Cheers, Colin! Check the nut on the E string…it’s probably not filled wide enough, deep enough, or just a bit rough! Easy fix…save your smallest wound string, when you change strings, and run it back and forth in the nut slot 5 or 6 times. Always works for me!

[@theguitaristas]

😎👍

[@joe19912]

Just ordered one in white with rosewood fingerboard, will be my first electric. My thoughts were: it's proven, iconic, upgradable, and will generally hold it's value.

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one i think you have chosen well! 👍👍

[@leoh1885]

I have a 2017 MIM Tele same colour, that I got a year or two before the Player series came about. I put locking tuners on it, upgraded the pick ups to 64 vintage ones, and it's great. It has been great for cutting my teeth on some minor repair stuff, and I rolled the edges on it, so there's plenty of value in that experience. And it stays out of its case, so while the poly finish will never turn vintage blonde, it's getting a little bit of an off-white colour, which is cool.

[@dirtyworks8084]

I have one these in lefty. Exact color. Put on a Wilkinson ashtray bridge with brass saddles, Seymour Duncan little '59 in the bridge-quarter pounder in the neck and Fender locking tuners, Electrosocket jackplate, American string tree and strap locks. Now it's perfect!

[@williamf.9615]

I've got exactly this model. It has plenty of sustain and sounds amazing when you crank it. That is what it wants. I put a single ply pick guard in polar white on mine and it just looks pristinely clean. Always gets a Wow, that does. I don't have that e-string issue and my "knob" doesn't drop off (lol) so, that must just be your model. All in all, you can't fault it. It looks good, it's got the F-plate, the spaghetti logo, it's flawlessly made, plays well, sounds good - well worth the money. Doesn't get much better than that.

[@jimdeavenport9952]

And your sustain is tied to the solid saddles I think. They are definitely more stable. I think the sheet metal formed saddles are unstable because there are only two full threads for the screws and they are tapped at the thinnest part, the sharpest bend. I have had issues with them dropping out of adjustment from vibration. The original three saddle set up is better than the formed sheet metal saddles as far as stability goes. And I can get intonation pretty close, close enough

[@robertorochamartinsrocha7041]

my "knob" doesn't drop off too... solid as a stone... but is not the first time that i ear about the issue it's a question of luck 😀

[@1968nik]

@@robertorochamartinsrocha7041 I have a MIM Standard I've had to replace the knob tip as it kept falling off - I put a strat one on which I prefer - its about the only thing I like better on a strat over a tele ;)

[@barriehercock8612]

​@@robertorochamartinsrocha7041 My knob fell off when I was playing my Epiphone sg ,was surprised as it was threaded its never he'll off my Squier telecaster

[@robertorochamartinsrocha7041]

@@barriehercock8612 i also have a squier telecaster... knobs solid as a rock... come mostard dark something... She is Yellow now... never had problems with knobs 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂

[@EredarLordJaraxxus]

This is exactly what I needed to hear! Of all the teles you've looked at so far, this one because of it's price and brand renown... has disappointed me! I went to a guitar shop and played with 3 different teles last week, a squire, fender and schecter. The salesperson bigged up the Fender saying "there's a reason everyone goes for these." but there was something I couldn't put my inexperienced-guitarist-thoughts on. I'm looking for a great guitar for it's price, not an average guitar for an average price. Thanks Colin for everything you're doing!

[@EredarLordJaraxxus]

All to say: Really bloody excited for the comparison video coming up!

[@TNTales]

If you like the more modern appointments like rolled fingerboard edges, belly carve, locking tuners you can get a Player Plus for about 350 more. I swapped it out for the Yosemite pickups that typically come with an American Performer and got the best of both worlds. It's a great time to be a beginner guitar player so many great affordable options. Great video as always.

[@nickwooldridge3187]

I put a Wilkinson 3 saddle bridge on mine, they drop straight in without any modifications, sounds great now, I never tire of playing it! Enjoyed your video, great stuff mate!!

[@robertparks634]

Excellent as usual. Always enjoy watching. Beautiful playing as well.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Robert!

[@Malediction99]

I honestly quite liked the tuners on my player series. They felt smooth and solid. I still replaced them with Fender staggered locking tuners, but for non-locking tuners I though they were pretty good.

[@donneilson3938]

Love the Channel. Creating your own Jam Tracks is the Cherry on top. Thanks for all you do for all of us.

[@kingatheist7231]

I got the capri orange one. Beforehand I'd played a lot of cheap strats, an ibanez, a cheap sg model too. Anyway, this tele is the best guitar I've owned to date. It's really pleasant to play, holds it's tuning really well and of course, it looks cool! You can do what you want if you want to change anything on it but for me personally it's staying as it is. It's my pride and joy until I get an american strat, but I think I've bee converted to a tele guy at heart.

[@jkf9167]

I've always been a Tele guy (my first tele was a 79 that I bought in 83), but I've always fought with them when playing loud rock. Since I've been palm muting more in recent years, I prefer those flat bridge plates to the old-school ashtray ones. I think I like the slightly more generic tones. I've liked a lot of the Player Series instruments (especially since I've learned to work on frets), but I haven't bought any. I still like the sound and the collection of features on this one. I agree with you about the tuners. The only reason not to have the Kluson-style tuners is if you want locking tuners, which sometimes hold the unwound strings better. I've finally learned how to wind the generic Schaller-style tuners correctly, but I wouldn't ever choose them, especially on a Fender.

[@jaypeterson7637]

Hey Colin! Another great video. I can't tell you how I looked forward to Friday and another Guitaristas' video! A few weeks ago I mentioned that I needed to sell all my instruments to keep a roof over my family's heads. I received so many encouraging comments from fellow Guitaristas. I said things were looking up, and continue to be. So much so that I just ordered a new guitar...a Gretsch G5230T Jet. I thought your review of the Jet was spot on. I am so excited! Cheers!!😊👍💕

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Jay, that’s brilliant news mate and I reckon that Gretsch will be a great reward for your hard work… nice one!! 😁👍👍

[@sidweazel2883]

My guess is the Sire T7 will be the best platform to modify - it has the belly carve locking tuners and best neck, just upgrade the pickups and you’re there. Another great video, really look forward to these.

[@robertorochamartinsrocha7041]

any guitar is a good platform... don't take me wrong it's just a question of money and taste... 🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@ces69]

I really don’t like the headstock, it’s so ugly I just hate having to look at it! Lol

[@robertorochamartinsrocha7041]

@@ces69 Me too... On the strat sire almost maybe, but even that i will not buy the strat... tastes!!!! 😮👍😀

[@pharmerdavid1432]

I never play my Sire T7, nice guitar but my Shijie is so much better to play, cost a bit more though.

[@e.henrythripshaw4554]

Another nice video. One good thing about these guitars is that a "standard" ashtray bridge will go right on (the Wilkinson one is brilliant) and Kluson-style tuners will fit with conversion bushings. In other words, it's a great platform for mods. For those who have to have "Fender" on the headstock this is a good choice, as is the Vintera you recommend. I'm looking forward to the comparison, although I'd love to see a "low end" U.S. Fender in the mix.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks mate, I'm just wondering how much a 'low end' US Fender costs these days... what is the old 'highway one' equivalent I wonder? 🤔 OK so there's a nice idea for a video and excuse to pick up another guitar! 🤣👍

[@rocket69218]

@@theguitaristas It's the 'performer' .... that's the lowest price USA these days, it's around £1100 - £1200, not exactly 'low end' price to me I must admit.

[@e.henrythripshaw4554]

@@theguitaristas Simon is right, it's the American Performer and he's also right that it's not quite a low price. IMHO, though, it's pretty close to the perfect Telecaster.

[@Clive007]

Good idea, put a new ashtray on, which Wilkinson model did you use? Did it drop straight in with the original holes?

[@e.henrythripshaw4554]

@@Clive007 I used what I think is the "normal" Wilkinson ash tray bridge with compensated saddles. No drilling necessary, it's a straight replacement.

[@yagithegoat1880]

Damn Colin you must have just read my mind! I've been poking around internet about this guitar for a long time but none of the reviews see to be good enough and deep enough. Thank you so much for the excellent job!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man!

[@JRobsonGuitar]

Friday isn't Friday without a Greggs sausage roll, a bucket of coffee & The Guitaristas 🙂

[@theguitaristas]

Happy Friday mate… it’s nearly beer o’clock so have a good one and a great weekend! 😎🍻👍

[@zinkpot2]

I just commented on your Gibson video and was just thinking I’d love to see you talk about a fender. I own a player series strat and I absolutely adore it. You are absolutely right “workhorse” is the best description for this range of guitars. I also think it’s insanely good value for money.

[@mewtmath2899]

Played one and fell in love. What would this have an advantage over say a 90s-00’s mim standard? Anyone?

[@geoffwhitemusic]

Thank you for sharing that old timey affordable guitar! I’d love to see you make a video entirely about it. Fascinating stuff. We just don’t hear enough about those vintage guitars that aren’t from Fender, Gibson, etc.

[@theguitaristas]

Oh I get it now the Zenta!! 🤣👍 yes… actually there is an old video about that on the channel comparing it to a squier bullet… check it out!

[@djangle67]

I agree the hot pick ups and non traditional bridge don’t twang like a tele should. Love Fender but the CV Squier does tele sounds better IMHO. The Vintera would be my choice but overpriced for a MIM. Great content as always.

[@gsbguitarsgsb679]

I bought one like that back in 1992. Made in Mexico, still have it and have modified it of course. SD pickups, 3way switch moved to the back and volume up front. I think I paid around $450 for mine with a hard shell case. It’s been gigged from day one and is still to this day. Most dependable guitar I own. The action is amazing and tight. C shape neck profile. Top loading six saddle bridge. I know some folks prefer the through body 3 saddle bridge design. I changed out the pick guard with a black one and found some black locking tuning gears and control knobs for it too. It’s my work horse for sure.

[@ricrazo]

I bought mine used, in new condition, and a great price. No issues. Might get locking tuners, but I don't feel that I need to. Well made too. It's a Fender, I love it.

[@jamesseverin]

Hey its my favorite mate doing a new video!! Thanks my brother, I enjoy each and everyone of your video"s

[@theguitaristas]

😁👍

[@tcarbonimusic]

Greetings from New York! Thanks for another fun and informative video. Great playing on the play out. Looking forward to next week.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Thomas! 😁 👍

[@wikolib6821]

Picked up a player tele and the quality is pretty good and it has that classic Fender sound. The bridge pickup can be a bit hot on a clean setting with the tone at max. The tuners on mine are fine. My high E string wasn't as close to the edge as yours but I did the loosen the neck thing and got a bit more space. It's interesting that every neck has slightly different wood grain. The one I just got has no grain very clean on the fretboard and headstock with with the back of the neck having some flame one the top of the neck facing me and an interesting wood knot near the body that looks like a christian fish that's hard to see except at certain angles. Also, the stain on my neck is a little darker than usual, making it look aged or relic like. It's actually pretty nice. I'm not totally happy with the nut, it's at the minimum height stained over on the edges so not aesthetically attractive. A new GraphTech nut would eventually be in order and would probably improve the string alignment and definitely give me a little more height to work with. Fender's recent price drop plus discounts make them a good value. As long as you don't get a bad one you're good. Got another on order for comparison, and might get a third.

[@michaelkitzmuller1479]

Good Evening Colin and Co. Well, I did it again. The two Legends, Fender and Gibson are taking up more space in me flat. Perhaps tomorrow my new Tele Player Plus in Butterscotch will arrive with a couple of modifications: DiMarzio Chopper T in the Bridge, Twang King in the neck and a brass nut. Locking Tuners are standard on the Player Plus. I am sure I'll get the sienna burst later on, also with this Set up. The Tele does it all. What a great Idear Leo came up with and is greatly loved to this day. A great Evening to you all and lovely greetings from Germany

[@carpathus]

Love my new Butterscotch black guard Fender Tele. Especially like the block saddle bridge. Did replace the output jack and installed a set of Fender vintage tuners with split shafts. No sitar sounds from the one I have and the E strings were perfectly positioned. Being a poor boy, I'm thrilled to get a brand new Fender guitar that's made in North America for less than a thousand rockets. Cheers!

[@ricekick]

This is my first ever Fender guitar. I guess my proper Tele. Honestly with its price and my usage of it, its worth it. I dont do gigs anymore and just mainly living room sessions pretty much, if i hear a song i wanna learn, i pick it up. Thats it. Im happy with mine.

[@terrorbirds9835]

I love that you have 6 + telecasters, several Les Pauls, a variety of semi hollow body guitars, a selection of classic tube amps etc….but you seem to only own ONE shirt 😂 You are my kind of people 👍👍

[@theguitaristas]

🤣👍 it’s simply a matter of priorities!

[@terrorbirds9835]

@@theguitaristas I was like that with motorcycles too…I was building several Honda 160s and had multiples of everything….frames, engine parts etc…..happy as a clam until a date came over and was speechless when she saw the only furniture I owned (for sitting) next to my kitchen table in a large otherwise mostly empty living space was a single folding steel chair, which had a ragged gash in the seat with a bit of duct tape over it. Until that moment I had never thought about it for one moment 🤣😂

[@jordanpratt3821]

Don't forget a ton of sg's.

[@anthonymcgill8035]

Terrific demo & overview. Considered this model, but I’m an ashtray bridge guy. I also place my fingers on the bridge and can’t get past not having one on a telecaster. Thoroughly enjoying the channel, and looking forward to future episodes.

[@carlosdeno]

It’s Friday! There’s something so cool about a white telecaster and a maple neck. I have to agree with you Colin with regard to the tuners and bridge, the vintage ashtray vibe and vintage tuners look so much better. I like you fell in love with the Telecaster after seeing Quo, I wanted to be Rick Parfitt so bad. Fantastic guitarist and a lovely man. I had a sunburst Zenta Tele for my first guitar purchase by my late mother for £20. Great video as always and enjoy your weekend mate. 🤘

[@xiehu43]

Happy Friday! I am having the show for supper for a change :) having owned a FPP tele (tomato red or whatever is they call this color) I must say the player line is great. If you go for the plus version, that is. Maybe I just got lucky, but most of the issues you mentioned did not happen with my gear [ except for the modern 6 saddle bridge which is part of the product line and cant be replaced]. what I am getting at is, in my personal opinion, if you WANT an original tele from Fender, it might make more sense to spend few CUs more and go for Plus. Still, these ain't "the original", but quality wise and quirkless-wise they deliver better experience. Pickups, pots, frets tuners, overall handling is way way above the regular player line. And still, for a "top brand", the player plus are affordable (ish). Happy if you disagree with me :) great show! Peace.

[@sprintingforsigns]

I’ve got this series of Tele. Having lived with it, and my knowledge and experience grown since I started playing again I’d have to say you’re spot on Colin. I’ve thought about changing the bridge set up. It lacks a little spank to it. I had an Eternal Guitars Stubby T fitted, a P90 in Tele pickup clothing. Much better as it has a bit of the P90 & Tele pickup. Agree on the tuners, and having one guitar with the split post design I should probably swap them out. I had a proper fret dress and setup done which made a huge difference. Love the no BS honest reviews. Never change, EVER! Bloody awesome

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, really appreciate your support! 😁🙏

[@SteveTong22]

Another great review. Get a cup of tea on and your snacks in! Lol. Love it!

[@aray887]

I bought one of these in the sienna sunburst with a roasted neck. Sent the first one back because the high e fell off fretboard and I couldn't fix it. Next one that showed up selector knob wouldn't stay on, and had to replace the tuners. Every issue you had with yours I had with mine.

[@RealROCKnROLLA]

Hey Colin I wanted to thank you: earlier last year I was eager to buy a 50s Les Paul, but then I've got Covid and kind of postponed it. And then I saw your Film about the Eastman sb59/v. It's a marvel of a guitar. I've already asked a guy at my not so local 150 km away shop to reserve the one in antique classic varnish for me before the price goes up. So in 3 weeks I'm gonna spent my salary in a best way possible haha. I have discovered this guitar only thanks to your review.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, I think you'll be very happy with how that ended up! 😁👍

[@gouvernor]

Another great video! I bought one of these a couple of years ago as my first Tele and liked it enough, but ended up modding the hell out of it because getting a polar white Tele from Fender otherwise was a bit difficult. Now i have many Teles and it was sold off, but I ended with a polar white Thinline partscaster Tele. Considering buying one of these bodies or mod one of my current teles to have a P90 in the neck as a fun project.

[@miracleman7836]

Astronomy Domine sounded good. I've owned a lot of telecasters U.S. made, Japanese and Mexican this player series is very good in my opinion. It's a keeper.

[@johnwhitehouse4100]

Clicking on your channel is like clicking a honest channel , keep up your reviews with your honest no B.S take on guitars , cheers John 🎸🎸

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers John, you know I keep saying it but I mean it... your support is really appreciated! 😎🙏

[@quiksilver78]

Interesting take. I just picked up the same model last week. I had the intention of installing a HS set of Tonerider pickups after slowly coming to the realization that I prefer Alnico II pickups. BUT after just playing it out of the box, I quite like it the way it is down to the 0.009 gauge strings! Do like the way the pickups sound as a matter of fact that I'm going to leave them in also. I do hear a slight ping when tuning that maybe a little filing is required but other than that. It's a great instrument. Maybe play it a bit more before rushing to a final decision? But yes, the alignment thing does seem 1mm off on mine also. You can kinda tell by the way the D and G strings line up with the fret dot markers. Like you said a quick tug will correct that right up 👌

[@Tarantula_Fangs]

Same, I enjoyed the sound right out of the box that I didn’t think it was necessary for me to make any modifications, maybe the tone control knobs, but we’ll see. 😂

[@waltjames407]

Just bought one of these after trying numerous Squier CV teles that everyone says are better. The Player feels much more friendly to my hands than the Squier CV. This is also the first Tele I've bought...part of the reason I didn't buy a Tele before was the flange around the bridge that I never liked the feel of and the barrel saddles that you had to compromise your intonation with. I might prefer to have a more twangy/punchy bridge pickup sound myself...this one is almost like a humbucker with just a little hint of the twang. I'm hoping it's the pickup and not the hardware like you say it may be, because I much prefer no flange around the bridge and a saddle for each string.

[@bipolarfox13]

Thanks so much for this video, Colin! I really hoped you‘d do this! Still the man! Thanks and Cheers from Switzerland. Have a great weekend.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Sandro! 😁👍

[@Tarantula_Fangs]

I’m glad I came across your channel because I just bought a Tele Player and I appreciate your honest review. Personally, I agree with you in a few areas, I think the knobs and the tuners are probably my least favorite part of the guitar; they just seem cheap and flimsy. However, I LOVED the sound of this guitar, I own quite an expensive Fender and I just seem to prefer the tones I’m able to get with my player. I tend to not gravitate with vintage or modern so I’m so glad that you mentioned that 😂 because it probably suits me. Anyway, great review and playing, I thought it sounded amazing! I could listen to you playing for hours.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers! 😁👍

[@vincenzomigliore9749]

After 20 years of Gibson Les Paul’s I got my first Player Tele last summer and just got a Blacktop HH tele last week. My player tele sounds nearly as good as my LP standard.

[@limpneckmike]

I just want to say that I have a 2003 version of this guitar. Back then they were called “Mexican Standards” instead of “Player Series” but it’s the same guitar with the same specs and available in the same colors. I have the one in the tide pool finish. My parents bought it for me used at a Guitar Center for $300 as a high school graduation gift in 2015. It was my first “real” guitar because the other guitars I had before that were cheap seasonal grocery store starter pack guitars. To this day it is my favorite guitar. It’s the guitar that got me into modding, and boy did I mod this guitar. Swapped out the tuners for locking tuners, put a Seymour Duncan Hot Stack in the bridge and a Dimarzio PAF style Humbucker in the neck, swapped out the bridge with a top loading ash tray with 6 brass saddles… I even had to replace the neck because the truss rod busted on me. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. I’ve spent a lot of money on guitars since then (as we all inevitably end up doing) but that blue tele always feels like home.

[@Tarantula_Fangs]

That was beautiful, I own a Player and I have yet to make any changes. I just love too much how it sounds already, to each their own.

[@fairenoughthenwhat]

A great little review there my friend. And it shows that these beasties suit your groove to a T. I look forward to the comparisons and any other telecaster like offerings for show and tell.

[@tombstoneisevil]

Colin, sorry for not write you in almost a year now, but I keep watching your content, love it, and you are the kind of in my ally friends be, I have to coment on that one, I have a player, I love it, dont like the bridge, 4 screws, you can get a replacement with the 3 sadles and fit right away, don't like the tuners, I've replaced them with the open head klusson type, the ones that go into the performer, 1:18 ratio, fit in right away, I'm saying all that because this can be an argument for a video, the real thing is the player because you can make it be what you want in a tele, or maybe not, big hug bro, keep at it!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers George, good to hear from you and thanks for support as always mate! 😁👍

[@tomd8313]

Enjoy all your Vids Colin! I Look fwd to the new friday morning ones. Take some Sidecutters, and gently squeeze a couple small grooves into the switch Blade, front to rear. The Tip will never fall off again. I put strat tips on my teles, and bend them slightly towards the floor. Cheers

[@toastedsandwich2474]

I'm not fussed about the tuners on mine. They do the job but the thing I liked most is the bridge. So comfortable to play, especially when palm muting which I might do to much of perhaps. I do like your level, honest reviews though👍

[@d49erh2]

Great film as always! Loved that jam in the end. Very cool. And that 75 guitar looked really hot! Thanks! Maybe a Vintera review next time? :)

[@bobcabo4509]

Always the best reviews on KZbin !

[@theguitaristas]

😎🙏

[@RecitalGuitarist]

A Telecaster fan from 1972. Got my first then. Just bought Squier Classic Vibe 1950's in butterscotch. A bit of incentive to work my left hand back to shape! The neck is beautiful and the entire guitar is brilliant. I teach at a music store and can get very deep discounts on whatever... I picked this one over the more pricey offerings such as the one in this video. Better value for the money and prettier as well! Hopefully you'll get one of these instead of the pink one you had before. Another great video here! Thank you!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Harry! Squier CV's are great... did you see the olive green (not pink! 🤣) 60's custom I reviewed and will be comparing to this one?

[@RecitalGuitarist]

@@theguitaristas Yes Sir, I did! The pink color seems to be a quirk that all the CV series suffers from. There is another review online of the CV Strat and it's pink as well. I wish they'd correct that!!!!

[@johnlloyd9613]

Great video Colin I’ve got this one in Faded Candy Apple Red Does everything I want it to Would like a tutorial on pickup height adjustment Thanks Colin

[@potwms99]

I have a 2020 Player Tele in Tidepool blue color. I put Fender locking tuners, a mint pickguard, and an upgraded string tree on it. That's it. It's a great guitar. I like the Alnico 5 pickups, they're hot but not overly so. I like my G&L ASAT with jumbo MFD pups, but the Fender is my go-to T-style guitar. Nice review, as always. Peace.

[@TigerPalmer]

I’m a new subscriber and I’ve heard you say you’re not a big fan of Strats. Have you ever played a hardtail Strat? The Robert Cray signature Strat looks pretty interesting. It’s one of 2 silver Strats available for purchase at the moment, which is how I discovered it. Apparently it has a reputation for having excellent pickups, which are unique to the Robert Cray model (but don’t quote me on that). Anyway, keep up the good work. Love these deep dives into guitars most of us can only dream about.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man thanks for the support! 😎👍 In fact the only real Strat 'review' I've done was with the hardtail Wayne Kramer MC5 stars & stripes signature... check it out it's here on the channel.

[@MJsap13]

Collin, you’re the best! I love your videos! I’m completely torn and can’t decide between getting a player telecaster, Epiphone SG, or Epiphone 60s les paul. As someone who’s experienced both, Which would you go for?

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man! 😁👍 honestly I can't decide for you but if it's me I go for the Pelham blue Epiphone SG Special! 🔥 but you should go with your heart because they are all good and worthy of buying... so the question maybe is which one will you get first?? 😜

[@rszkop]

Thank you for another great review! I couldn't wait for last video in which you'll compare all teles so I went and bought Sire T7. I absolutely love it and I already done some upgrades. Pots were really bad quality so I installed CTS. I wanted to get more vintage tone so I put in Tonerider Vintage tele set. Now it's absolutely gorgeous and I can't stop playing it :) Cheers!

[@rickyl9540]

I think you were trying to say the tuners lack any resistance when you turn them? And the pick ups sound generic? Or mediocre? Off topic I wanted to ask... I see so many players have their thumbs way over the top of the neck and fretting the 2 bass strings instead of doing a bar chord. I must have a short thumb and just cannot do it. I haven't noticed you doing that. Is that an issue for you as well? And is it no big deal or am I just not suited for guitar?

[@theguitaristas]

Yes thumb over the top is a great technique if you can do it but my hands are not really large enough either, and it’s not something I’ve practiced, so like yourself and many others it’s not something I do… so don’t worry it’s no big deal.

[@rickyl9540]

Thanks for your kind reply 👍

[@Kevin.Hearty]

Excellent review as always. As for the tuners, they have adjustment screw at the button to tighten them. 🙂 If I were buying a Tele I'd get the Sire Larry Carlton version.

[@jemahl123]

I do love teles. Leo pretty much got it right first time. The modern fender fmt hh tele with a set neck is a beast Id love to see you review. Its the most underrated guitar they make.

[@iaamusic1121]

Great Colin, looking forward to the shoot out. Snacks ordered. Did wonder about QA by Fender. Seems a little underwhelming.

[@stephanematis]

Your observations are very valuable. My recent Tidepool hasn't tugged at me as I would have expected. Which led me to reconsider it, but first another Tele will arrive to confirm or deny my observations: California Blue Aerodyne Special. If the Player is trying hard to be everything to everyone, I suspect the Aerodyne will lean to Modern to the extreme. I can appreciate that focus. In other news, Fender is doing CuNiFe Telecaster, Strat and two variety of Jazzmaster pickups. Smart, they are the only one with that magnet in hand, so stretch the use and market it. What is surprising is that they mention a Chrome grill to cut the 60 cycle hum for the Strat and Tele versions. Something to add to the "I need to hear that for myself" list. Thanks for a lovely video to close the week off.

[@jwilder2251]

Love hanging out with “Uncle Colin” while he talks guitars! I have a Classic Player Baja 60s Tele that I love - also had a stock Player Strat and it was just like you described, just missing that mojo

[@theguitaristas]

😁👍

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Great licks Colin! Like I said on the TV channel, you make everything sound like it’s the best guitar around. 🎸 Vintera is where it’s at for me with the lower cost Fender guitars, I loved the Fender 60’s Modified Vintera Stratocaster. I know some people are against the old school neck adjustment but mine was spot on. Only reason I don’t have it any longer was the multiple guitar trade for the Yamaha Revstar Pro model and I acquired a American Pro II Strat.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers mate, that's too kind 🙏... it must be the amp! 🤣👍

[@pinkiewerewolf]

@@theguitaristas I don’t think the amp hurts but it’s you Sensei! 😁

[@theguitaristas]

@@pinkiewerewolf 😊🙏

[@ferdberfle5069]

Sounds to me like it could use a thorough setup. I have a bridge like that one on my Tele and it sounds as a Tele should. I'm not a fan of the barrel saddles due to the fact that you can never get the intonation quite right. Cheers brother!

[@monacordero]

Hi Colin, I've been subscribed for about a month now and love your channel. Your playing is always so spot on and enjoyable. I also love your sense of humor and detailed explanations. Have you ever considered reviewing the Epiphone nighthawk or blue's hawk? The current nighthawk is a Nancy Wilson (from Heart) signature model. It only has two pickups where the nighthawk originals mostly had three , two humbuckers and a single coil. It has a potential of nine different distinguishable tones. I'm curious if it can really do it all. I have GAS, but no money for multiple guitars. Friday is my favorite day because of you and your fabulous channel!! Cheers from frozen Colorado !

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Mona! I must admit that guitar looks intriguing with the pickup config and all that I could definitely be tempted so thanks for putting it on my radar! 👍 Thanks for the kind words and support... stay warm!! 😁

[@markdakel9253]

Thank you for a very fair and honest review, well done I recently played 1 of these models and was dissatisfied with the fit, finish and tone, at that price point it needs to be better. I have 2017 mim Ash tele that is far better than todays offerings. Colin nailed it. It’s not vintage or modern and if you want something better you will spend a lot more

[@robertgallagher2226]

In contrast, I just bought a Squier classic vibe tele and it is nearly perfect. Better than guitars in my collection that cost 5x as much.

[@bulico06]

Great review. I think they come standard with the 3 ply white or parchment colored scratch plates. I have a butterscotch blond and it comes with a 3 ply black. I ended up putting in a 4-way switch, installing some pure vintage 64 pickups, and wired the pickups in series.

[@tylertalk6746]

I just got a fender player tele in the surf pearl. I love it. Next to a strat, you can really hear the twang and can get more or less twang adjusting the tone.

[@andrewdempsey5312]

Shielding paint - always fun to check the continuity of it from control cavity to neck pickup. Or even from the jack hole to the neck pickup - if they have shielded it entirely. (Did that with a kit myself)

[@caseylee12]

503 is a .05uf or 50nf ceramic capacitor, for what it's worth. Wouldn't a .22 sound better? It would take off less high end, which if you don't like, you could roll back the tone knob.

[@GraemeCampbellMusic]

I was just looking through an old Guitarist mag I’ve got from ‘91. You could buy an American Tele for £495 (A Les Paul Standard was £595). Japanese Teles were 250-300. Even accounting for natural inflation, Fender have jacked their prices while their quality has dropped. I went shopping for a Tele last month and ended up with a Gretsch,

[@robbrady4649]

I have some old mags from 2005 and American Teles/Strats were £599 new with case. In more recent years Fender has revamped its model line-ups every 4 years, changing little more than the colours and pickups. Of course, the 'new' model inevitably carries a price rise, leading us to the point where today's 'US Standard' is now some £1,500.

[@MrYatesj1]

Hard to stomach what used to be, but for me buying used is the best value

[@robertorochamartinsrocha7041]

@@robbrady4649 I had an enormous chance bought a player series limite edition sienna sunburts ... for the bucks i'm a lucky bastard,,, 4 piece of ash.... but perfectly alined for 4 pieces ... beautifull for me... if you want more or better our days, hummmmm !!!!... rosewood is over ebony in the same direction and let's see. sheers

[@quiksilver78]

£495 in 1991 converted to 2023 is the same price (or very close give or take £100) to what you pay for a MIA Am Pro II Tele. Take it easy. I'm pretty sure a few duds were produced then also if you're going to be waxing poetic about quality control. Furthermore, take into account that the British Pound was worth more as a trading currency only a mere 5-6 years ago. Relax, you are paying the same money you were paying in your glorious 1991.

[@hq72hotmale]

And the Gretsch you recieved unless bought via the original us Gretsch family ....was I'm fact a Fender

[@jimhova]

I have one, my feelings exactly. One time I play it, I don't like the pickups, the next time I think it's fine. I like the neck. I don't mind the bridge, I don't like the raised sides of the ashtray bridge. Mine is too heavy, around 8 pounds. I think they cost too much for what you get. I have a Squier affinity that I put Fender true vintage pickups in that I like a lot better. Thanks again Colin!

[@davelewis4215]

Colin, Your knob might keep falling off but at least you got a player without sharp fret ends. The Larry Carlton is still out infront for me for looks SQ and build quality 👍It still punches well above its price point 👍

[@sidweazel2883]

Couldn’t agree more, I have a white T7 and no interest in looking any further. New pickups and the guitar will be complete

[@stephenrich8808]

Actually, I had the same issue with my Fender Player Tele (purchased about 5 yrs ago) with the rubber cover of the switch coming off! That was about the only thing wrong with it, and I found it to be a joy to play (in butterscotch yellow, of course)

[@Ottophil]

You can get a 2 pack official fender ones for like 8 bucks

[@SoloSi2024]

One of the nice things about these is the bridge being a 4 screw attachment. That means you can easily swap to a vintage 3 barrel bridge if you want to try one.

[@glederz]

Been looking for one that advertises as fitting the player tele, but not great luck. Any ideas where from?

[@lrpops]

Another great review Colin. Becoming a massive tele fan. Just bought a 2013 Classic series 50's tele white blonde nitro finish. To go along with the Esquire and 69 thinline in the same series. Blown away with all of them. This Gas thing is a real issue lol. Think they were replaced with the Vintera series. Really not a lover of the bridge on the player series. Great for intonation but like you said it lacks the tele twang. Always look forward to your Friday review.

[@Danny11230]

Nice review, no stones left unturned. I would really like to see you review a Schecter PT Special. Granted it has a P90 pickup at the neck (your favorite pickup, if I recall) it would be an interesting outcast when compared to the rest of the teles. Keep it up, I am looking forward to more of your content.

[@hod8931]

Thanks! Was waiting on your review of this model.

[@merkules2001]

The first time I saw this and heard it, I knew. It is clean and pure. It was just right.

[@Dram1984]

I just bought a new strat and skipped past the player series and on to the performer. The player series is pushing $900 in the states and for just a little bit more I feel like you get a nicer instrument, plus it has the all important “US” in the serial number :p

[@eertje01]

I love tele's. My first guitar was a tele so that probably had something to do with it. During covid I assembled a double bound sunburst tele. 2 piece alder body, roasted maple neck with ebony fingerboard, tonerider hot classic pickups, proper ash tray bridge, Kluson tuners, 4 way switch, out of phase push pull. Looks great, sounds great, plays great and everything combined it cost me 350 euro's. Classic vibe telecasters are awesome, but if you buy tele parts for the same price it will be on par with a vintera or even a performer 🤘

[@eggnoodleforsure929]

I'm about to buy my first Telecaster and I think your comparison gonna help me a lot

[@theguitaristas]

Hope so! 👍

[@robmcnamara2381]

I was looking to buy a Player Tele, but didn't like all the things you pointed out. Ended up getting the American Pro 2 and love it. No regrets on spending the extra money.

[@jbf16falcon]

Sent two back, high-e strings out past the ends of the frets from 15th fret on. Fine at the nut, bridge mounted a bit low and holes drilled low too. Factory Jig must be off. Neck will not adjust in the pocket to properly realign. Confirmed with other techs was actually the player plus Nashville model.

[@dannyklassguitar]

Love this channel. Perfect guitar reviews. No BS.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Danny! 😁👍

[@walterredaelli5736]

Hello Colin. Your reviews are complete and honest. Thank so much for your work. I also own a ".. fendah pleyah ..." and I totally agree with your findings. It's not shining on particular aspects but there are things that prevent me from selling. The playability is very good, the neck too. I also consider the modern bridge a cons. Probably it is killing the tone, I have another Telly with ashtray and brass saddles and it sounds much better in terms of twangy. In any case it's a great guitar for the price, the pickups are OK, to find something better on a stock guitar it might be difficult. Cheers ! ciao. Waltz.. ps keep on reviewing gear !