Five Near Perfect Guitars & Affordable Alternatives

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I recently saw a video about "Perfect Watches" by Adrian Barker and I thought it would be great to make something similar about "Perfect Guitars and Affordable Alternatives" as well. Agree or disagree (but be nice) in the comments.
Thanks for watching,
Keith

[@michaelschneider7590]

Very enjoyable, Keith! I’m a 73 year old who took up guitar in retirement a year ago - first borrowing my son’s G&L Strat, then deciding on a PRS S2 594 for myself when it became clear my interest would stick! This video would be great viewing for anyone buying a first guitar, buying a second in a different flavor, or just wanting a whirlwind tour of Guitar World.

[@DrMurdercock]

You're fortunate to go from beginner strat to a PRS like that! Most of us started young so we had to work our way up from junk lol. Enjoy that PRS brother!!! Play it like it owes you money my man. Have a great day and glad you started playing. My dad recently showed interest. So I hooked him up with a starter strat, he now as a really nice LTD EC 331 (LTD Les Paul)

[@scottmacphee35]

It is a great thing to take up after retirement. My friend started playing upright bass when he was 73. He's now 81, and he plays out with me and the fellas all the time. He thinks learning a new skill has kept him mentally sharp, and that sure seems right to me.

[@Jeremya74]

G&L is an EXCELLENT guitar

[@scottmacphee35]

@@Jeremya74 Hear him! Every G&L I have had, from imports to USA custom builds, has been great. I love those crazy ceramic MFD pickups.

[@tannerbarsness9992]

You’re proof that you can always teach an old dog new tricks. I love hearing older folks not letting their brain rot.

[@MayorMcCheese2000]

THANK YOU! Finally a video that uses the word "affordable" appropriately! Those guitars are really the minimum price for a guitar of that quality made in a way that one could consider objectively ethical. This tells a story worth telling and paints a realistic picture of expectation! OUTSTANDING content!

[@lewisclinton8080]

Great video! I’m always humbled and reminded when I see a guitar player walk in with a squier classic vibe, Princeton amp, and 2-3 simple pedals and absolutely crushes everyone around with their tone and chops.

[@SSquirrel1976]

Yamaha Revstar is certainly a valid SG alternative as well. Been wanting one for awhile

[@johncollins5552]

Like the PRS I hear a lack of a distinctive tone, always good but never great.

[@williamolsen20]

I have been wanting a Revstar for years. Just have not had the extra coin. I could swap out the pickups if I wasn’t happy with them.

[@dalecoffing8655]

Same here. A Revstar will be my next guitar with P-90s. Need to go play one. I have the humbucker, and single coil as well as a couple of acoustic electrics. I have played several gigs in the pit and I think the Revstar would be great to cover a lot of that music.

[@michaelmitchell7]

I've got a revstar 620, once I replaced the bridge-its been pretty good. I replced the bridge pu with a Lace drop and gain- it has a great tone on bridge or neck! My Revered Warhawk DAW blows it out the water for fit and finish though.

[@SSquirrel1976]

@ the p90 colors all look great. I kinda want the bright ass green one if I went for a humbucker version tho :)

[@ocelotl23]

Snobs will hate me but, but Squier is a great alternative, it's Quality has increased so much in over the last years, the ones I have played feel nearly as good as my american select one

[@c.jarmstrong3111]

Squier guitars have always been excellent value. They are no different than a lower end fender

[@johne.1011]

Agree!

[@jordanpratt3821]

"Snobs" don't hate that squiers are quality instruments. What drives a Snob crazy is when people say that a squier is better quality than it's American counterpart.

[@ocelotl23]

@@jordanpratt3821 I never said squiers are better, I just said they are a great alternative to the real deal.

[@edpetrikk2027]

Squire and Epiphone …case closed 😊🎸

[@thisistimwoods]

G&L's tribute line offers outstanding value in every model. I recommend the Fallout. What a guitar

[@DrMurdercock]

Anyone new, there are more affordable guitar brands than shown in the video. you DO NOT HAVE T O OWN A FENDER, GIBSON, PRS. You can play anything

[@martydibergi5228]

That’s a great handle doc

[@DrMurdercock]

@@martydibergi5228 Glad you appreciate that lol Its dumb,. immature, stupid, but its funny lol

[@martydibergi5228]

@ kind of similar to my handle it’s OK I’m old and in constant pain. Arthritic, spine surgery and still act like a four-year-old . have a massive love of guitar All my life. got to know the Hellecasters and Albert Lee my dreams have come true. If you appreciate clean tones, try a matchless amplifier just a suggestion happy picking. Thanks for responding.

[@DrMurdercock]

@@martydibergi5228 ill try one for sure

[@janzelf]

Fazley Maverick HH Plus for instance maybe I was just in luck with this 120 bucks guitar. But it's great and still holds up pretty well. It's fullblown computerized build, not handbuild but who cares? It's amazing, not even just for the money.

[@vintageswiss9096]

I just bought my Epi Les Paul Standard 60s Series for $300, and the shop spent over an hour setting it up and lowering the action for me. Best neck I've ever held in my life... Shop local...

[@Дядятычтодурак]

Yeah Gibson style necks are incredible! Recently got the chibson sg and oh my, it's neck just excellent, especially for the price of $120. I mean in comparison with vintage style wide/fat neck strat and modern style thin/slim neck tele (both are cheap as world too, but pretty good)

[@PatrikWalzer-lt2qo]

I love my Ibanez RG's. Most people think it is only a Heavy Metal guitar and it is a fine rockguitar. But I worked as a hired gun and session player and did almost all jobs with an RG. It combines the power of a humbucker guitar with strat sounds.

[@ukguitarnoodle]

Exactly. People see the horns and think Metal, yet 3/5 sounds are Strat tones. I love my Genesis 550 .

[@rickeymitchell8303]

They have cheap hardware and electronics the ones from the 90s and 80s where best 500 dollar rg feels like a toy compared to a strat or Epiphone and they don’t hold their value worth a damn

[@PatrikWalzer-lt2qo]

The Genesis line is MIJ and has Gotoh tuners and an Edge double locking trem. By the way: I have a lot late 80s and 90s RGs. But I prefere the guitars around 2000. They had the bubinga stripe and the AANJ. They were really solid! I love almost all guitars... That is my problem 😂

[@AGENTELROND850]

Real hard to beat their vintage styled AZ models either. I have 2 and have played a few more. Damn they're nice guitars.

[@PatrikWalzer-lt2qo]

@@AGENTELROND850yeah, they are really nice and cool, if you like to have a bit more wood in your hand. I mean it's not a thick neck, but not as thin as the wizard is.

[@ralph_clay]

I'm so glad you included Anderson. I worked there for 10 years. Thank you.

[@Imnotthevillian77]

For me, a tele and gretch will cover every sonic need one can imagine. Great video 5watt.

[@bryantrockfield9865]

I totally agree with your sentiments

[@dasninjastix]

I don't know about perfect but I've absolutely fallen in love with the Sire J3. I like all my guitars and wouldn't trade or sell any of them, but something about the Jazzmaster shape, feel, and versatility that's been a revelation. My playing took a huge leap as a result of that emotional connection.

[@budgetguitarist]

Sire is killing it! Great value for the money.

[@obvious2886]

Epiphone inspired by Gibson guitars have been amazing in my experience. I have a 2019 339 that I’ve been gigging and practicing with every week since then and it’s held up perfect

[@jakerobinson4401]

I took in a Squire CV 60's Tele Custom on the back end of a trade. It's a Chinese made from 2016/17 before they started production in Indonesia. It's (supposably) all original and this guitar is just different than most other Teles I have ever owned, currently own, or have ever played. It's one of those "Why is this so good?" and "Why can't I put it down?" kind of guitars!! If you have a chance to pick one up on the cheap, take the leap... If nothing else, at least you'll have a solid canvas for modding. 👍🏼

[@WoodworkingforAnyone]

This may help. Supposedly is used to say something is supposed to be. "According to the former owner, it is supposed to be all original".

[@jakerobinson4401]

@WoodworkingforAnyone Thanks for the clarification, I'll be sure to let my autocorrect know! 🤣🤣

[@jkf9167]

I had a made-in-China Squier CV Strat that was similarly amazing. I traded it and regret it. Those Tonerider pickups in the early CVs had sounded more like vintage Strat pups than just about any OEM.

[@WoodworkingforAnyone]

@@jakerobinson4401 your autocorrect says supposably? That's weird. I wonder where it learned that.

[@tj10777]

I agree on those Chinese Squire Teles. I played a used one in Guitar Center once and it was inexplicably excellent. I should have bought it

[@ldf399]

Eastman guitars are super quality, I own a T59V and couldn't be happier. Definitely scratches the 335 itch.

[@mcvideo5909]

A late 70s/80s Yamaha SG2000 goes a long way covering a huge range of sounds. Very well built. Has cut away body and great fretboard access. Single issue is its weight.

[@rkoblues24]

Another good one, Keith. I had an SG in the late 60s, didn't like the way it felt around my neck. It was a loaner from a friend. Then I got a Gibson Walnut 335 from Hays(Ks) Music in '68 and really loved how it hugged my body and it made me look like BB King. I was only 16, what did I know back then! It got stolen when I was in Golden Gate Park several years later. I had a '56 Les Paul that had been refinished, sold it in '76 to Caribou Music in Nederland, Co. They told me Joe Walsh bought it, he was living there back then, Barnstorm days. I should have kept that one. I now have an Epiphone 335, and some Squire Teles, and have settled down with PRS Custom 24 and an SE Silver Sky as my main working guitars. Take care of yourself my friend and keep those shirts freshly pressed!

[@Tyrannocaster]

I've been playing since 1964, and I've owned several late 50s and early 60s Fenders and Gibsons. I recently bought a new Sire L7 LP clone and its a better guitar than any of my old Gibsons, and I'm reminded of it every single time I pick it up. It cost me less than $600 new and I wouldn't trade it for the old Les Paul Custom I used to play. Maybe, for once, I got lucky, but everything on it was done right - from the design concepts to the beautiful multiple binding; the satin finish, rolled-fingerboard neck, the cutaway handshake on the back, the excellent locking tuners, and even the pickups, which sound great. This guitar didn't need any setup other than lowering the bridge a little and the action is quite low with no buzzing. I don't need to tell you how rare this is. If this is typical, then Sire punches *way* above its weight.

[@CraigBourke]

Hey dude, Im curious about the Sires as I’m informed that Larry Carlton was involved in the guitars. Do you know if he owns the company, or was he a consultant, or did he design the Sire lineup? Thanks , & peace ✌️

[@Tyrannocaster]

@@CraigBourke I have no idea what sort of arrangement he has with Sire, but since they do so much stuff with Victor Wooten it seems obvious that they like to pair up with great players for their lineups. And while he probably doesn't literally design the LC guitars, he plainly has a working knowledge of what works so he's influencing the product. Like I said, I don't know if the one I got is representative of the entire line, but damn - it's one heck of a nice guitar. I would NEVER trade this for a Gibson or Epiphone Les Paul Custom. That said, you don't get a Gibson headstock and the cutaway is pointier than the original. For some people that's important, and I get it. But the guitar is so much nicer than its equivalent Gibson or Epiphone models I just don't care.

[@walkingtruck]

I’ve owned my Sire L7V for around a year and I wholeheartedly agree with your assessment. Mine is the P-90 version of your guitar and it’s a rock machine.

[@MaxBeatsGpoM]

I have Sire L7 Sunburst and build quality and finish are fantastic for the money. Pickups are not so great but pots and caps inside are real crap. I swapped them for original CTS 500K pots, TAD Mustard Caps and rewired it to vintage Gibson 50's style. Now this guitar is really great!

[@Tyrannocaster]

@@MaxBeatsGpoM I like the pickups in mine. If I ever have trouble with the pots (so far, I haven't), they're easy enough to swap out. As for the caps, the sweep is fine and I have no complaints. The earlier Sires had a bright cap which interfered with the tone control's action but mine is a later model without that.

[@TommySG1]

I currently own 3 SG’s and each one plays / feels absolutely brilliant Keith. The Special weighs in at 5.9 pounds, my one Standard is 6.3 and I also have a white Sam Ash exclusive Standard from 17’ that’s right at 7 lbs. all three have significantly different neck profiles but all are super comfy. My all time favorite guitar hands down.

[@robertfoster1339]

I have an Eastman and I love it, great guitar

[@jbroutson17]

I was blessed enough to find a birth year strat. A 84. Not a highly collectible vintage like the 50s and 60s but I’ll keep it forever and pass it down to my son.

[@jeremythornton433]

Lucky you! I was born in 55. Nothing from then is affordable.Maybe I"ll get a 70th anniversary Strat next year when I hit 70.

[@joermnyc]

Thus far my quest for anything from my birth year (‘80) that’s actually worth acquiring is pretty sad. Those were the down years for the major brands (closest guess would be a Les Paul Deluxe, but those might all be boat anchors.)

[@zacharysmithingell5460]

That's awesome, 84 is my year too and one of these days I want to pick up an 84 Yamaha SG.

[@pabcrane]

I have played a couple of Tokai guitars from 1980 and 81 and they were fantastic. If you'd like a year-of-birth guitar it might be worth checking them out : )

[@IvorThomas]

My birth year is ‘57. I do like Goldtops but dang!

[@JohnWDGTandTele]

Classic Vibe 50s Telecaster owner here. My story started with an Ernie Ball Music Man Axis Sport with MM90 pickups. Great guitar, but I longed for a telecaster as well as a humbucker guitar. So, I sold it and bought a Classic Vibe telecaster as well as an Epiphone ES-335. All was well until a few months and the Tele volume pot went bad, so I bought a complete electronic assembly by 920D from Sweetwater. Then, I decided that I wanted compensated brass saddles and bought inexpensive Wilkinson saddles. While owning it I noticed some rough fret ends and later noticed a “sitar-like” sound. So…I took it back to the shop I purchased it from. They worked on it and said that they had to hammer down almost all of the frets and had to glue one down. Also, and this is after working on it, they said that when looking down the fretboard it looked kind of like it was scalloped. (Big sigh) I was considering buying a new neck, but upon seeing that Fender offers a 2 year warranty, I was able to get a replacement free and the shop was great in the transaction. This one is MUCH better and I put the replacement electronics and saddles on it as well. Long story short, make SURE you know what you are getting and check it out THOROUGHLY (maybe even take someone with you who knows how and what to look for better than yourself). PS, the Epiphone ES-335 was really nice, but I sold it to fund the purchase of a PRS DGT SE which is a great guitar!

[@mmpatriot2170]

Great video! I’m a part of the Five Watt World.

[@miniguitarjams]

Just gotta hit pause for a moment to say how much I enjoy your vids. Thanks. Might grab a tee✌️😎

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks!

[@NicholasANappiNick]

Been playing for over 50 years I love my squire 60s P bass and get a lot of compliments on looks and sound 🎉🎉🎉❤

[@EJH-jn6mo]

That Pelham blue SG in that recent Beato video sent me down a path of ending up with the green Antique Pelham blue version … arrives Monday :)

[@actionjacksondan]

Good for you! That blue SG has been taking up space in my head as well

[@Gene_Cali]

I love the sound of my Gretsch guitars, from my Jim Dandy to the Jet. They have a Classic sound.

[@pwlebrun4573]

Yeah, when I saw the video title, I did a mental list of what the 5 guitars would be. I matched them all (admittedly not a difficult task) but had a Gretsch instead of the SG.

[@WilliamBrauner-ie4yq]

Thanks for considering my suggestion. I subscribe and appreciate the content and the way that you put it together and present it. I just traded my 2010 CS 336 tangerine burst in to CME. Picking up a DGT SE and a Japanese Yamaha Red Label. Recently started playing again. So some “new to me” guitars can’t hurt. Your channel is a gold mine for me. My little Fender Champ is enough to practice with. Five Watt aficionado wannabe.

[@briansilcox5720]

I just bought a 2010 Studio Goldtop 50s tribute with the faux binding on the body, P-90s. Nowhere as easy playing as my Carvin HF-2 with 25.5 in scale, but I really wanted that P-90 tone and Mahogany/maple combination. Achieved my sub 8 lb goal with Studio. Love it.

[@chriskethan5952]

Great video! The first guitar I bought was a 1987 ESP 400 series Strat. I still have it. It sounds and plays like a pre-CBS Fender…it sounds more like a Fender than any Fender I have ever played. The history of the ESP 400 is fascinating. Assembled from parts made from pre-CBS blueprints, and marketed to sell for $400…hence the 400 moniker. I loved it so much I bought 2 more Strats and a Tele. For decades you could find them used for less than $500. Recently they have started climbing in value as other players have recognized their sound and playability. Love the channel!

[@NinerFourWhiskey]

Don't forget the excellent Heritage H535, made in USA semi-hollow, figured wood and great workmanship. Mine even has a wood pickguard. The Heritage H150 is a great Les Paul alternative as well. I have one of those too!

[@carsgunsandguitars]

I always love these videos. I just got an SE 594 and swapped the neck PU to a SD Phat Cat and it is, honestly, one of the best playing and sounding guitars I've ever experienced. I'm blown away by the quality and look and feel and sound at any price, hard to believe it's $700.

[@GraemeCampbellMusic]

I can also recommend the G&L Tribute Series as budget alternatives to Teles and Strats. I'm blown away with my Legacy (S type). Of course the US versions are outstanding and still cheaper than the Fender equivalent.

[@danmar007]

Big fan of Teles. :-)

[@mysteryshrimp]

Most of my guitars are some version of a tele.

[@dalecoffing8655]

Excellent Keith! I play a Tele an Epi semi hollow, and a steel string acoustic guitar for musicals. Not much I can't cover with those three two amps and pedals. So what you say and I have heard for some time now is with a Tele and a 335 style there's not too much you can't cover. I have proven over and over. Even coving some mandolin parts with the Tele. There are some really good used guitars out there. Both my Tele and Epi were used. Find a good tech and you can make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. You can have a very good working musicians guitar, without having a lot of money tied up. After all you don't mind getting dents and dings on a $500-$700 guitar. I buy a guitar to fill a need for the gig not to collect them. I'll leave that to Bonnamasa and others.

[@paulbormann1398]

I agree with your position on this Keith. I have owned numerous SG, Les Paul, Strats, Teles and ES335's. They are all great guitars and each one can do a wide range of sounds. especially when you are covering Classic Rock material. I am really struggleing finding a keeper Telecaster though. The journey can be more fun than the destination.

[@williamwild915]

K-Line makes some of the most impressive guitars I’ve played in a while. I have a Springfield and KL-90, both of which are incredible.

[@steverolfeca]

Depreciation sucks. Patience and knowledge are key in any hobby! As a motorcyclist, I never bought new, but obsessively watched the market, keeping a mental list of favourites. With patience, I could grab clean low-mileage examples when prices bottomed out and sellers were desperate. This also cuts your cost on accessories, insurance, etc. Every couple of years, you trade up, maintaining a sense of progress while always paying pennies on the dollar. The same principles apply to guitar and amp ownership.

[@jasonswitzer1748]

If you’re looking at Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul’s and you’re not super precious about having Gibson on the headstock, I’d strongly recommend you check out Heritage Guitars. They’re built in Kalamazoo, MI in the same factory that birthed the fabled Bursts. They’re built as well and play as nicely or better than Gibson Custom Shop LPs at 2/3 the price. Definitely worth a try. Also, if you’re cool with trying a modern interpretation, go try out a PRS McCarty 594. I just picks up a double cut SE model over this Black Friday and am very pleased. It’s thinner than a standard LP and weighs ~7.5 lbs. The pickups don’t sound Ike Custombuckers or anything, but they still sound pretty nice. They also have a nice Gibson fat 50s neck, which is incredibly comfortable if your main focus isn’t shredding… for that iii should go looking for a super Strat from Ibanez or Schecter or Kramer. In any event… this was a nice video. Enjoy your guitars, folks.

[@bxsoup]

Heritage H-150 , Yeah what he 👆🏾said !

[@itllkeal]

I started playing with 47 Gibson southern jumbo gifted from my grandpa and my buddies Martin d28, so I was spoiled starting out. Now I play a handcrafted Washburn while the Gibson hangs on the wall, but I ended up with an Oakland, and it was as good as either of those. I still have a Gibson strat style electric, and I love the way it plays because of the explorer style kneck, but I had a Maestro "toys are us" melody maker that I regret selling because I'd pick it over a Gibson LP standard. It looked to me like it was a real Gibson student model just named differently but was a real jem to play.

[@dangeorge809]

I love that you mentioned the Eastman SB-59V. An absolutely amazing guitar that's cheaper than a Gibson Standard and is Custom Shop quality. The price difference between the two could leave you with change even after buying a good tube amp and a versatile pedal rack. Best guitar I've ever bought. And so much lighter than any Gibson or Epiphone I've tried.

[@Rockingruvin]

I have a '52 Tele reissue in butterscotch finish and caramel maple neck, 06 American Strat with J Beck noiseless pickups. 71 SG special with P-90s. Two LP Studios- one Wine Red, one a Goldtop. All great, all unique in their own way.

[@taz3672]

Have you ever done a series on 70"s Ibanez lawsuit guitars? Would love to see one on that. I am a big fan of the Ibanez, Aria, Aria Pro II, Burny, Tokia and Greco Les Paul copy guitars from that era.

[@jamesc8563]

The Gretsch Electromatic series are pretty killer for the money, especially used. I’m still kicking myself for selling my white 5420. I love the used early-2000s Heritage 535 it helped fund, but I should have waited a few more paychecks for the Heritage and kept the Gretsch too.

[@petersmith6098]

Great piece, Keith. My affordable alternatives are a 2011 MIM Nashville Tele ... and yes, nothing sounds like it ... and two late 80's/early 90's ES-335 (no f-holes) Studios ... both with headstock repairs and both with killer sounds. If I were to chase an affordable LP alternative, it'd be a lawsuit era Tokai or Greco.

[@briane.paulson]

I am 73 and play many instruments but 6 years ago I picked up the guitar. I have gone through at least 54 guitars to get to my current 2 guitars . I wanted to try many but I would buy and sell to get to my current Pair. I have a Fender Telecaster Player 2 with a virtual Jeff digital Whammy and Charvel San Dimas Pro Mod super strat Hard Tail. Both complement each other. Although I wish I could afford to keep all of the ones I played, I think that The Schecter Pt Special, Ltd Phoenix 1000, Ibanez Headless QX 54 QM and Harley Benton Fusion T belong in the Collection.

[@TheCalmingForce]

Surprised at the omission of the Heritage H-150. I picked one up a few years ago for ~$1500. Great guitars built in the old Kalamazoo house. Great stuff, Keith!

[@stephenlawn159]

Thinking the same thing, regarding my wonderful H-535. The Heritage that Gibson left in Kalamazoo. Original factory, jigs, techniques, beautiful woods and at least $1k less, but not an alternative? Please.

[@brcmiami]

Great range of high-low alternatives for each iconic model. More videos like this one please.

[@pabcrane]

What a well crafted video, great work yet again Keith. Thank you. I'm surprised to hear that the 61Les Paul/SG is the only Gibson electric guitar to have remained in continuous production since its inception or launch. I thought that the 335 had as well. While I no way argue with your decisions, for me a well set-up Jazzmaster is the perfect guitar. However I know that a lot of people don't feel that way (for a number of legitimate, yet surmountable, reasons) - thereby removing itself from contention. Yet I can also say that about the Gretsch Tennessee Rose and the Rickenbacker 330 6 & 12 which are also in my Favourites!

[@compucorder64]

Great idea. Before watching, I thought I'd make my own list before watching. Most budgets will be lower. 1. Telecaster, honestly, I'd stick with Vintera II 50s Nocaster, maybe G&L ASAT 2. Strat=>Baum Celestor, or PRS Silver Sky SE if on a moderate budget 3. Gibson Les Paul=> PRS DGT SE, Gretsch Electromatic Jet or Larry Carlton L7V if on a budget & Schecter if playing heavy styles of music - early 90s LP Studios too. 4. Gibson 335=>Epiphone Casino or Larry Carlton H7V (later, upgrade to Lollar PUPs) 5. A tie between Gibson SG=>Guild Polara Deluxe or Jazzmaster=>Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster. I don't feel I could do without a Jazzmaster & a 335 or Casino, so would struggle to limit to five. For steel-string acoustics, I'd go with Yamaha Red Label (FS3, FG3) would be my alternative to Martin or Taylor. At lowest budgets, the Squier Classic Vibe & Epiphone Les Paul, SG & 335s can all be made very nice too, if you put in some work to upgrade.

[@Chriss-Gear]

Tokai's are awesome. I have purchased 2 from Japan and had them shipped to the states. One was used and one new. My Eastman SB59 is very nice as well. I would highly recommend them. Not cheap but very nice. I have a couple of PRS SE's and they are great. Buy what you can afford! In this era of guitar manufacturing there are plenty of great guitars in all price points. I also own a Sire "strat". Nice guitar but not in love with the finished fretboard. I own 2 Gibson's and they are both great. With that said my Heritage H-150 is my best guitar. That thing is such a beast! I wish I was a better player. PS: I don't play my expensive guitars any better than my more affordable ones!

[@douglasnielson8250]

H-150’s are great. I have two. People hate the Heritage head stock but I have found the straight string alignment really helps keep the guitar in tune.

[@douglasnielson8250]

You automatically cut your manufacturing costs producing overseas. With CNC and modern paint technology you can get precession fit and finish for less money. 95% of the people who buy guitar equipment are hobbiest. Professional musicians are only 5% if even that. People with more disposable income but the more expensive toys. People with less disposable income money to spend buy the more reasonably priced stuff. The up side is you can get a pretty decent guitar and something to play it through today for less money than you could in the 70’s. Quality for $$$$ has improved if you shop smart.

[@douglasnielson8250]

I bought a Tokai in the early 80’s because they were better than the Fenders. I’ve seen so many 70’s Fenders with huge gaps between the neck and sides of the neck pocket. Horrible workmanship.

[@whatsupchicken]

Old school guitars. The title should be the classic 5 electrics! Amazing guitars, don't get me wrong. All of them are incredible for sure, all made history for sure, almost all needed, but some are redundant, I would choose an Ibanez or a Floyd Rose fast neck modern guitar as well.

[@MichaelKimball-s6w]

I have a variety of Strats and Teles, MIM, MIJ and made in the USA. I also have a Danocaster tele. The Dano is the best of them all, but my late 80's MIJ telecaster is number 2. Play a Bunch and pick out the one that feels best.

[@MilitantOldLady]

If i had a dollar for every cork sniffer i've ever run into who can afford those custom shops and high end guitars but can't play at all, i could afford all of the guitars mentioned.

[@roberttosa2560]

I know a couple of people that fit your description of guitar elitists. As long as they aren’t elitist jerks I don’t care … just so long as they let me play their never played guitars. ✌️

[@CliffMcCauley]

I owned a real deal 64 SG chopper from 2020-23. Bucket list guitar for me. My friends were jealous, it got attention in club gigs, and it sounded wonderful. No neck dive, the wood was almost petrified and it “wanted” to stay in standard tuning. After 3 years of gigging, I sold it. I could just never bond with the “balance” issue. So much neck, so little body, felt like I had to consciously hold it towards my right for things to line up properly. I ended up buying a collings i35 LC vintage, pocketing the extra cash from the SG sale, and I’ve had zero regrets. Also my friends all thought (and still think) I’m insane for the swap, which keeps them on their toes.

[@fendaman10]

I’m glad that G&L, Eastman, and Collings were mentioned as options! It should be noted that Heritage is also a great alternative to the Gibson models.

[@bigsby6bender]

I love seeing a new 5 Watt World video pop up on my feed!

[@dianeduffcroop8158]

Great episode as usual but when you got to the es 335 section you left out the incomparable Heritage HS 535 aged Artesian! At 1,000 to 1500 cheaper than a Gibson es 335, and with a much better build quality and tone it's a no-brainer. I walked into a Guitar Center to buy some guitar picks, and saw a cherry red HS 535 Aged Artesian hanging on the wall and immediately went home and grabbed a couple of trade pieces which consisted of a Fender Custom Shop 61 Strat in Daphne blue and 100.00 got me my Heritage! I couldn't be happier!🙏💯💖🎸🎶

[@markotten1755]

Great that you mention G&L, I have some beautiful guitars but my G&L ASAT US is hands down the best quality instrument I own and I use it with every recording session

[@Menchi2k]

If I may add another "alternative" to a vintage Tele to the list. The Fender Lite Ash Telecaster (Made in Korea from the early 2000's) is an exceptional tele and while prices are going up, they can usually be had in the $600-$800 dollar range when they do come up for sale.

[@louisdombrowski4198]

No doubt about the lite ash especially with a upgraded MSSC harness & Electric City Pickups 52 clones in it.

[@Krullmatic]

I bought a PRS SE Swamp Ash Special not too long ago, and it has become one of my favorites. The quality is impeccable for a budget model and plays wonderfully!! I would suggest adding a PRS to the list of what you need. It's got a unique sound all its own. I'm wanting to get a DGT, or a McCarty SE.

[@worthmoremusic]

Love my Sire T7TV thin line T shape...it's super lightweight, has locking tuners, compensated brass saddles, bone nut and those classic rolled fret edges. I originally wanted a G&L but I wanted something under 7lbs ! Also love my PRS SE CE 24 Standard Satin...beyond happy Paul finally made a well made, and very affordable guitar...

[@TheSavagederek]

Great video . We all have our favourite type or model and I think were pretty lucky these days , to have so much variety .

[@SeerSnively]

I'd love if you did one for basses as well!

[@MartyRacine]

An inexpensive, but really well-built, SG alternative is an Agile AD2300 made in Korea. Hard to find except online. Grover tuners, graphite nut, trapezoid inlays, neck binding and two P-90 pickups, each with their own controls. They're about $300 new. I got a slightly used one, plus hardshell case, for $200 cash.

[@EFlo2000]

Great video! My Fender American Original 50's Telecaster has been my favorite so far. Every time I think about selling/trading it, all I have to do is play it and I change my mind. It's a keeper!

[@RandyLeonard-t1x]

Love these videos,just relaxing and informative...I'm just waiting for the New years ball to drop and watching five watt world.🤙😊

[@Kabayoth]

One mild omission, Keith. Heritage guitars are less expensive, better made, and faithfully reproduced versions of Gibson models. No SG equivalent exists in their line, but no matter. I bring them up because, unlike Gibson, I've never come across a dud or dull sounding example. Once upon a time, I could chalk this up to a partnership with Lollar pickups, but Heritage isn't exclusive to them. I understand Tim Pierce has a Custom Shop H150. You might reach out to him for his feedback.

[@bxsoup]

. . . Yeah what he 👆🏾said ! I have an Artisan Aged Standard H-150 it has Seymour Duncan Antiquity’s in it .

[@RBerndt]

I second that - I bought a "used" cherry red Heritage H-535 at a much better price than a Gibson 335. I grew up a huge fan of the Moody Blues and Justin Hayward's guitar playing, and the 535 was a way to get my dream guitar. As you say, the quality control is much better as well.

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

Keith, I laughed out loud at your "5' 10" / 150#" (15:28) comment. Those are my dimensions exactly, and all of the 335-size guitars feel absolutely HUGE to me, no matter the brand. As I'm sure you realize, the truly "perfect" guitar is the one that inspires you to pick it up and play, for whatever reason or reasons. Much to my surprise, a 2019 Squier Contemporary HSS Strat fits that bill for me. I've left it box stock except for some locking tuners, and out of a dozen or so electrics that I own, it's the only one that never goes back in the case . . . perfect!

[@jimicunningable]

5'7' 155 here, can't agree more!

[@smeagle3295]

I am glad he mentioned it too. I am 6’2” and bought a 339 on Reverb, but had to send it back because it was too small. The 335 is just right for me.

[@jubei7259]

My 'bucket list' guitars are an early 60's 335, with block inlays, in Cherry (Clapton model) & an early 50's blackguard Esquire (yeah, I know good luck with that! lol). A Tele is the only model I don't own out of all these. Out of my 10 electrics, 9 are Gibsons. The only other is my '69 Strat. Of them all, my '92 SG is probably my favourite player, if not my favourite guitar (if that makes any sense). It just plays so damn fantastic.

[@frankierodriguez8661]

As good as it gets! thanks a million Keith. I love the playing of this young fella with the Standard in the last part of the video. extremely sensitive fingering if you wish, and exquisite phrasing and tone. Very very good indeed to illustrate the extraordinary sounding guitar a Gibson Les Paul Standard is. Despite this is not always the same, like, say PRS because the guitar from Maryland sounds exactly the same always, whereas Mr. Orville's product can be one of the most inconsistent, if not the most of all time so you have to try a bunch before pull the trigger. However, if you fing the right one, there is no other guitar like a Standard Les Paul or a Gibson SG, which is truly fantastic in its own way.

[@StavK]

Loved the video! Maybe I’ll get chewed out by the purists here, but wanted to call out Kiesel Guitars makes amazing Tele, Strat and LP styles, custom shop USA quality, at prices you’d normally pay for standard production line instruments.

[@mysteryshrimp]

I only wish they still made the 11 pole pickups and guitar kits that they did as Carvin.

[@timelwell7002]

Excellent, well-researched and very informative video - many thanks. Here in the UK there is a guy called Dave Walsh (Eternal Guitars, based near Chichester) who will make SUPERB copies of all these guitars.

[@stickman55100]

Another terrific FWW installment. Definitely an excellent summary of the primary iconic guitars. Regarding Les Paul Style guitars, if you’re looking for that style that not only nails the classic 1958-1960 sound, but goes far beyond that in terms of flexibility, check out the Cream T Aurora model with swappable Guitar-X pickups. Absolutely incredible!

[@Kylora2112]

I have a Harley Benton HB-35 Plus in cherry red with Gibson 490R/498T pickups installed ($400 total), so I have the classic look and still a Gibson sound. Definitely the best option for the "I need a semihollow just in case" guitar if you're not a semihollow player. The best budget Les Paul options are ESP LTD EC-256 (lower end) and EC-1000 (high end import). My 2006 Goddess is my #1 guitar (I also have a 1981 birth year Custom), but at 12.5 lbs., it's 100% a studio-only guitar), but my EC-1000 is absolute a worthy backup. I got my girlfriend a Harley Benton SC-Custom III for her birthday, and after some quick inspections, it's an LTD EC-256 with a different headstock. My Mod Shop Strat is exactly the Strat *I* need, since I don't like the vintage specs or the noisy single coils, but I love the vibe, and their vintage noiseless pickups are perfect for playing clean funk/dance pop while still able to break up an amp and rock out when I need to (I'm still going to my Les Paul and Explorer when I *really* want to rock, though!). So yeah, I'd say everyone needs a Strat, Tele, Les Paul, 335, and then that one guitar that's just *theirs*. For me, it's an Explorer with a trem and a PRS Custom 24.

[@radinamarca]

Hi I own a Gibson ES-335 and love the tone and sound quality of that guitar.

[@tomaslopez2940]

Very good selection but I think you missed one key guitar: an ‘80’s superstrat! These guitars have two advantages of being made more recently than the others and also having multiple manufacturers with many options of woods, pickups, and necks! Original ‘80’s models would definitely be top tier but there are also more affordable modern alternatives like the Jackson X series , Schecter C6, or Kramer Strikers.

[@omni379]

I was given a brand-new Gibson Les Paul Studio (in Blueberryburst) as a birthday gift for my first guitar of any kind. It’s amazing and truly a marvelous guitar. I think there’s something to be said about a name. Yes, other guitars might be a better value, but for me what inspires me to practice is knowing that I own an actual Gibson-made Les Paul, like Jimmy Page does, that inspired my love for both the instrument and the type of guitar he played most often. Great video as always.

[@jeremythornton433]

"ve always had a love for the 12 string Rickenbacher but never the money. After reading a write up in Guitar Player, I went out and found a Daisyrock Retro 12. In a recorded mix, I doubt anybody could tell the difference. And it was a fifth of the price. Semi hollow body too. Hey Keith, have you ever thought about doing a show about strings? Budget versus high end ones? It might be a good idea.

[@WhiteWolfEFX]

Love this video. I would like to add as a life long tele player and an owner of around 20 of them in a Variety of options, including fenders , g&l's and parts guitars, I want to add the most clear alternative to a fender tele is. Reverend eastsider. I got interested in the eastsiders because of my Love for Pete Anderson as they are his signature models. I have 3 now and plan on adding more to my collection. The eastsider s is more "Strat" then many strats I've played, but still does the tele bridge thing. Would love to see you do. Video on the history of reverend. It's a great story imo

[@SHENDOH]

Late 70's to mid 80's japanese made Ibanez are amazing instruments. I main gigging axe is an 81 Ibanez AR 100 and its every bit as good as most Les Paul's Ive played

[@CalixtoElDiablo]

Amen. I have a 78 Ibanez pf100. Fantastic intonation, action, tone. You can still find plenty on the used market. Great LP alternative

[@pabcrane]

@@SHENDOH - a good friend of mine had one of the Ibanez Les Paul fretless basses; one of those whacky ones with the oval pickups and numerous switches, like a bass version of the Les Paul Recording that Les actually preferred. What a fantastically made guitar that was. And it certainly had a vibe. I'm sure someone else I shared a gig with had a white Custom as well - which sounded great. Those and the Tokais are fab guitars - as well as Greco and Burnys apparently but I've never played 'em personally

[@jonsnow7092]

I have a '79 Greco strat made by Fujigen factory. Same factory, with the same tools and employees that 2 years later would make the revered early 80s MIJ Fenders. Came in a pretty rough shape and needed new bridge, pickguard, pots, switch and plastics, but ended up being an AMAZING strat. Very resonant, pickups sound great and has the darkest rosewood I've seen. I'll probably need to refret it at some point but with all expenses, including the future refret, I'm still under 1000$ in total.

[@eljefeguapobarbon]

Great timing on this video, I am doing a Sweet 16 style whittling-down of my collection. Playing all of them until they eliminate themselves from the competition. The idea is to end up with one each great telecaster, stratocaster, Les Paul, SG. Wish me luck!

[@fivewattworld]

Excellent exercise!

[@Scaredycat-dad]

Thanks Keith, at some point I would like to get a PRS McCarty S2, the p/u’s are the 58/15 LT. I love the way SG’s sound but I can never seem get used to the short scale neck that goes on forever 😉. This summer I got an Xotic XTC1 (T style) guitar and I could not be happier. I’ve never played a vintage Tele but I had a sound in my head of what one should sound like and this guitar nails it.

[@ajdungan9104]

Awesome stuff Keith! As usual… ❤ thank you for sharing.

[@raithrover1976]

I have a US Standard Tele, an Epiphone Sheraton and a Yamaha A3M electro acoustic and feel that these guitars cover pretty much all the bases. My Yamaha gets the most use due to its pick up and play convenience but there's nothing as much fun as plugging one of my electrics into my multi-effects box with a pair of headphones on so I don't wind up the neighbours and just letting loose.

[@guithawk-ij8is]

Always enjoy your videos Keith! I'm fortunate to own a 1967 ES 330 and a 1976 Les Paul that I picked up in 1978 and 1980 respectively, when they were just "used" guitars back in the day. I would never be able to afford either now. Both are a joy to play, although my Les Paul is a boat anchor at around 12 lbs. I am curious why you didn't mention Heritage as a cost effective option, I've never played them but I have heard good things about them.

[@keylearning5746]

Keith have you considered a segment on headless guitars. A back injury forced me into purchasing the lightest yet best quality guitar I could find for gigging. I decided on an Ibanez Q52, and I have been more than pleasantly surprised. It’s one of the better playing and sounding guitars I’ve ever owned. Great neck, excellent tone, and ergonomic comfort beyond what I thought possible.

[@fivewattworld]

I do t really have a broad enough experience beyond my Hohner Stenberger copy in the 90’s and my Strandbergs today…but maybe a livestream topic.

[@rondelio8562]

Awesome video, Keith! I would have to say that 1 guitar cannot do it all! If I had but 2 guitars to go with, it would a Strat and a 335 to cover it all. For a full cover, it would be similar to your list- a Tele, Stratocaster, ES-335 and a Les Paul. Currently, in the real world, I vary between my 335, LP, and a dual humbucker Tele I built. On occasion, I use a custom built Tele with standard Telel bridge pup and Hb in the neck.I should probably build a standard Tele someday. And btw, both my 335 and LP are custom built with coil splits added in.

[@andrewbecker3700]

Interesting note that I'm reminded of when you mentioned your new SG. The fact that as soon as you pick it up and play it, especially sitting down. You remember how awkward it can be, till you get adjusted. I bought an Epiphone SG Modern from the "Inspired By Gibson" line, when they first came out in '20. It has a very unique layout which includes 24 extra jumbo frets. That guitar is even farther down that road. Of what I perceive as a shifted geometry. Unfortunately it did get returned/traded in, after realizing the neck stability was the reason it wouldn't stay in tune. So with that specific construction style and assembly. It's not ideal. LTD '87 Eclipse NT in pearl white was it's replacement. Point being, I've finally broke down and bought an Epiphone LP Prophecy in Olive Tiger Gloss Burst. When I saw the new ones came out at $300 more! $1199 for the LP version now! Holy shit! With my usual discount percentage applied, getting an 8lb. 2oz. example for $789 with the best top I've seen on one yet. Was just instinctual. Point being again. If your looking for something new and interesting that has loads of modern features. Like weight relieved bodies and asymetrical slim taper neck carves. Including acces heel body with a belly cut. These LP Prophecy's are wild. I'm really into unique guitars, and this relatively inexpensive model has really opened my eyes. The Fishman Fluence Modern pickups have PAF and also split coil switching. Which makes this version specifically, with the 2 volume and 2 tone pot layout. Unique even to the other Prophecy models. I really liked that SG Modern, but in the end I'm much happier with this amalgamation of a guitar. Its basically a Modern or Supreme with Fishmans. I encourage others to try these guitars for themselves. They can feel a little awkward at first. But once you get comfortable holding and playing one regularly. When I pick up, say my McCarty .594 Singlecut standard afterwards? It's wild! Variety is the spice of life. Maybe those boring old guitar models keep some people's attention. Not me. I've learned 20 times more about guitars and their construction. Since realizing I don't have to play the same ones everyone else does. End point, that I've been trying to get across this whole time. Try a LP Prophecy, it's as close to an SG as I've ever played. Without the wet noodle neck instability. Peace!

[@AlexWalshMusic]

I decided to focus on Les Pauls because I switch back and forth between acoustic and the necks are similar. I have a 93 studio and 2023 tribute. To keep my gas away I also have an inexpensive strat and squire tele. I wanted to be a 335 guy and have had a heritage and gibson. I too am 5’10” and I think my hands are kinda small…

[@gregrandallbtsr03]

Thanks Keith. So many good guitars out there. I don't have any Gibsons right now but I do have a couple of Epiphones I really enjoy. I spend a lot of time with my semi-hollow Telecaster and find so many great tones and just enjoy playing it. Peace

[@Clown321321]

As always - I had tons of fun watching. Thank you!

[@neiljones3431]

By the way you do a wonderful job of 5watt world. Keep up the good work

[@davemeshamsr6000]

Great informative segment…a lot of info on less expensive models of renowned guitars that would make anyone feel like they have an historic classic model with the sounds of our guitar icons ….thnx again for sharing and helping us to find that affordable option 👍🏼

[@DSAbbottstudio]

Thank you for another great video! I'm fortunate to have at least one example of all five in the collection except the tele, but have owned several telecasters in the past. I have humbuckers in most of my Gibsons but find myself gravitating more towards the P90's because of their versatility. Single coil sounds as well as fuller, humbucker sounds are available. If any guitar just under $2,000 can be considered a "best buy", both the Gibson SG Special and Les Paul Special fit that description. They have distinctive feels but both are great sounding and playing guitars and worth a look if you're in the SG or Les Paul market.

[@thenameless3271]

Squier Classic Vibe 50s / 60s Strat Squier Classic Vibe 50s / 60s Telecaster Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s Epiphone SG Standard '61 Epiphone ES-335 All of those are more than just "close enough", and for the money, easy choices. Ideally, you should look to guitars around the three to six hundred dollar mark. Any lower, and you're getting unfinished work that wears away and lacks playability, any higher, and you're looking at diminishing returns. Good luck :^)

[@edc3093]

Hi Keith, I have been following 5WW since the beginning and enjoy all of the videos that you produce. Respectfully, I feel that you missed the Fender Stratocaster and Telecaster series in two important product lines, which in my mind fall immediately below Fender Custom Shop Guitars. They are the American Ultra I and now Ultra 2 Series Guitars as well as their predecessor American Elite Series of Guitars and their slightly lower priced American Professional I and now Professional II series guitars. IMO all of those guitars feel good and sound great with the stock pickups and can be purchased on the used market at a reasonable price.

[@johndaugherty4127]

My first SG, an Epiphone SG Modern, is the perfect guitar. That, and any telecaster.

[@hearpalhere]

Great guitars, really enjoyable as always Keith! There are so many wonderful, lower cost alternatives nowadays, it's really a golden age for playing guitar.

[@TheGoatWhoWalks]

Good call about your Candy Apple Classic Vibe 60’s …I’ve got the same…..I tend to pick it up more than my American Standard or two Mex Strats !