How big is the gap between USA guitars and imports?

Here I look at some of the most popular USA guitars and their import counterparts, talk about the differences between them. I focus on Gibson and Epiphone, Fender and Squier, and Paul Reed Smith and PRS SE. I touch on topics such as materials and build quality, as well as more subjective areas such as sound.
The video is peppered throughout with playing examples to illustrate the points made.
www.patreon.com/leonardgriffieblues
#epiphoneguitar #gibsonlespaulstandard #prs #prsse #fender #squier #bluesguitar

[@ChristophHagenPGN]

I'm a guitar teacher, working musician and I love great guitars. You'll find them if you stop listening with your eyes... I was searching for a Telecaster and the one that fulfilled my desire was a G&L ASAT Classic made in Indonesia.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

You’re absolutely correct about listening with the eyes. For many, a lot of baggage comes along with picking up a guitar that has nothing to do with playing music. Thanks for watching.

[@MrSDFD18]

Yep! And even the Placentia bluesboy is good. The Indonesian had brass saddles and a thicker neck. I love the thinner Placentia. Take a look at the Sweetwater exclusive D’angelico mini DC. Made in Indonesia and you wouldn’t be able to say it wasn’t a Gibson. Sweetwater speced it out perfectly and does great quality control.

[@HarrySappington]

G&l tributes are great guitars. A lot of the electronics are USA made and shipped to Indonesia for assembly.

[@MrSDFD18]

@@HarrySappington and they were sold on sale for $269.00! What a steal.

[@greensummersband]

Ain't nothing but a paint brush, it's what you do with it..

[@flyingmogui6650]

I'm Chinese. Almost everything is made in Asia now and guitars are no exception. At its core, guitars are noting but a piece of wood and some simple electronic parts. It's simply unreasonable to believe that Asia cannot build proper guitars while everything else is made here. What differentiate the quality are management, supply chain, QA which apply to every factory regardless of where they are located.

[@chrissavage1534]

Lots of absolute junk comes from Asia. Chinese products are often garbage due to being made with inferior materials.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I agree with everything you said. In fact, Eastman are some of the nicest on the market. Thanks for watching.

[@flyingmogui6650]

@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Thanks man! Really enjoy your playing!

[@flyingmogui6650]

​@@chrissavage1534 Well I'm not gonna argue. EVERYTHING is made in China, junk included. Non-junk are also included though, and I think non-junk is a lot more than junk, if you pay the right price -- junk price buys you junk. Speaking of material, it's been quite a stir a few months ago in Chinese guitarists community that Epiphone has been using other wood materials for the body while claiming to be mahogany. That's a factory 100% owned by Gibson and based on their reaction, it's quite clear that it was directed by the management. So there you have it.

[@borowland5744]

So far I have owned and still own several foreign made and American made guitars. The only foreign made guitar that I really like is my Yamaha Revstar standard. Oh, my Japanese VM 60's strat is nice, but my American guitars are much better sounding and feel better. Just my opinion.

[@guitarzan0515]

Holy Moly, in this demonstration, you’ve Proved that in Your hands, they All Sound Awesome! Great demonstration, and topic!💥💥👍

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks so much.

[@bluesdawg8014]

I'm a 75 year old semi pro. I own several vintage guitars. Lately I took a chance and tried two Harley Benton's and one Epiphone. They all play great after I did a setup. They must be setup right to play and sound good. I bought the Harley Benton JA 60 fire-mist and the double cut Les Paul junior. Totally cool guitars. The Epiphone Coronet was my first guitar when I was 15 years old, I sold it (Big mistake) so I bought the Epiphone Coronet because the specs were pretty much spot on. The guitar reminds me of my old one and it's just cool to have it around. Killer slide guitar. I still like hanging a vintage axe to my strap so vintage has the mojo but the other guitars are worthy and are all made well. Los Angeles Blues player

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Nice. I too bought a Coronet back in about 69. It was stolen in a burglary before it ever saw the stage. Originals are crazy expensive now. I should have replaced it when they were affordable. Thanks for watching.

[@ialien2077]

Beginner here. Can Guitar Center be trusted to do a proper set-up if I buy, say, an Epiphone Les Paul from them? The problem is that I wouldn't know if a new guitar would need a set-up or not.

[@zero318]

Excellent points, Leonard! I started gigging while I was still in high school in the late 70's. Money was tight and the flavour of the day were the lawsuit axes like Univox and some of the Ibanez rigs. We got them to work, and they made us a living! When the first MIJ Squiers came out in '83 we were on those like a dog on a ham bone. For working players, it's always been about cost effective. What's it going to cost to gear up vs. the amount we're bringing in from the gigs. That's just good sense. Ffwd 40 years to today's discussion and now that I don't have to play for a living anymore, I'm still amazed by and happy to get my hands on some of these newer budget units. I just scored a Paranormal Nashville Strat for 399 bucks CDN a few months back. Ok, I did a little tech work to bring it right up to gig standard, but man, what a unit!!! Absolutely amazing and bags of fun! Sure, the big dollar rigs are out there, and they have their customers, but this is a golden age of up and comers and some of todays' budget' offerings are absolutely mind blowing...

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yeah, that’s the thing. A little work can turn almost any decent guitar into a good player. Thanks.

[@ro307805]

The E series MIJ squires were great.

[@braddietzmusic2429]

Kudos for taking a big and contentious topic for many and making salient points and not glossing over the most important things. If I did this video, my discussion would be twice as long. And maybe not for the better. I agree with you 100%

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you my friend. I wish everyone actually watched the video and listened to what I was saying as most of you have. Appreciated.

[@garthosborn8400]

Great take on a topic important to guitar players. I have a PRS SE Mira that I absolutely love. It’s light on the shoulder, looks and sounds great, and it is so easy to play. I’m 69, been playing 55 years. Playability is the biggest thing for me, followed closely by cost. We don’t need to spend a fortune to find a great guitar these days.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

And the fact is, any properly built guitar can be made to play superbly in the hands of a skilled luthier or repairman. Thanks so much for watching.

[@tbone2451]

Well done Leonard, and as always great playing !

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks so much. Appreciated.

[@alanleemaxwell831]

The name on the headstock is not always an indication of quality... Bravo sir, for proving it!!! 🙏🇬🇧❤️🎸

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you my friend.

[@frankdardano3182]

Play a squire strat,then play the American version. IF you like the China or Indonesia, buy it! BUT please don't insult my intelligent by stating there is no difference. I HAVE both, and the Japanese sound ok, but they feel like a toy, and the tuning and tendency to use cheaper material , to me just is not worth it. IT took 72 years of owning and playing since age 8. MY father always said. You can't polish a turd, and you can't argue Gibson is too expensive, until

[@martynjames5963]

I have had all the guitars, still have a few, but my fav is the Fender JV Squier I bought new in 1983.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Those were great. I had a JV 57 reissue for many years and still use the body. Beautiful sounding regardless of the wood or the finish not being “traditional”.

[@jhackett9482]

Got a squire tele and it’s my favorite guitar over a decent Washburn and an American strat. Buddy has a nice Mexican tele but my cheap one plays better.

[@rocinblues]

Great subject matter. Been playing for 5+ decades and still enjoy playing. Many of the budget guitar lines are being made in newer factories that have state of the art CNC machines, so the only difference in budget (under $400) vs expensive is the hardware and that's fading quickly. You can buy a made in Japan/Indo/China/ Korea guitar and pay $1200 USD and get a quality guitar that is as good or better as a USA Fender/Gibson/PRS . All USA major brands are stuffed with suits at their HQ's that have tricked players (via advertising/endorsements) into thinking that only their guitars have the "magic sauce", but that doesn't work anymore. Heck, if you know how to set up a guitar there are many guitars under $400 (USD) from Amazon w/stainless steel frets that are gig ready (good electronics/hardware) and are excellent for beginners. This is now a golden age for high quality affordable guitars for any range of players grouped into two price points 1. up to $400 and 2: those selling at $1200. But if you want wall art there are a bunch of makers that will take $3500+ of your money in a heartbeat.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

You certainly don’t need to spend big for a good instrument. Thanks so much for watching and engaging.

[@petesmith6434]

I agree with your analysis completely. It’s a great time to be a guitarist at any playing level looking for a new guitar. When I was a young player over 60 years ago, budget guitars were largely very hard to play and quite bad sounding. Today, the Squire, Epiphone and PRS SE guitars are completely playable and sound great with a little set up work…if it is even necessary.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, I was one of the very lucky ones starting out, since my Dad was a pro guitarist and bought 12-year-old me a professional instrument. Low cost instruments were atrocious back then! Thanks so much for watching.

[@calvinevans6347]

I'm glad you added "if it is even necessary." I have purchased quite a few non USA guitars that were ready to play well from jump. Chicago Music Exchange (CME) is good for setting up their budget guitars to be gig-ready before they give it to you. SWEETWATER does an awesome job of this as well.

[@BillLarkinmusic]

You are right on all counts. Great topic!!

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you so much my friend.

[@mortonwilson795]

Great conversation, on board with all of this! 'Legacy' brands and their 'Diffusion Lines' both have something to offer but ultimately it comes down to what feels and sounds good. I spent a day in the studio yesterday working on a friend's new track. PRS SE Custom 24-08 + Epi Casino (modded with Lollar P90s / '50s Wiring) + Roger Sadowsky NYC S Style HSH . . . they all delivered, love every one of them! These are good days for aspiring or veteran players when it comes to finding a guitar - we're spoilt for choice, n'est-ce pas? 😀👍

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

You have it spot on. It’s about tools for the job. Thanks so much for watching.

[@tonyb9864]

I really think that if someone did these without showing the guitars, I think the listener would say "that's a Les Paul" or "that's a Strat" instead of "that's an Epiphone or Fender". I think people are too hung up on name brands. I got the 59 Epi and love it! Suits my every need AND I didn't give over priced Gibson any money

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I tend to agree. Plus, the most important component is the player. Thanks for watching.

[@mikethebloodthirsty]

I'm not going to pay a grand for a Chinese made epiphone. The difference is in the FEEL, a squire may sound close to a fender, but it's NOT the same thing. Jesus you could record a hello kitty guitar and it'd sound fine in a mix...

[@Gman-c4q]

@@mikethebloodthirsty I totally Agree. With that being said, the bottom line IMHO, is the Materials used in the Building / Construction and the Skill of those individuals Producing the Guitar. This constant " Comparisons " of Epiphone vs Gibson , Fender vs Squire and so on , is getting old. The Epiphone Les Paul, is not a Gibson Les Paul. The " By Fender " Squire, is not a Fender Strat, Tele etc. Buy what you can afford, Play whatever you want to play and enjoy it. I have had & played most of " All of the Above " and I'll stay with my Gibson's & Fenders.... I'll leave it at that.

[@johngrasso1483]

@@mikethebloodthirstyYes! The games they’re playing with the pricing of overseas guitars now is a joke! Be smart on the used market & you can find great deals. I got a Gibson double cut special for $600, a faded 2005 SG for $400, an American strat for $800, a sandblasted American tele for $750, all in amazing shape.

[@RickMcCargar]

@@leonardgriffieblues5845 the most important comparison is U.S. requirements that corporations must meet regarding employee safety, taxes, environmental regulations...the U.S. is competing against nations that don't require companies to worry about their employees nor the environment.

[@gtr1952]

I'm an old cat too, 72 this year. I cut my gigging teeth on Gibsons and Fenders in the late 60's early 70's. I can still tell an Epiphone from a Gibson blindfolded, by feel, response and sound. Yes, response and sound are different things. Several years ago I was looking for a LP Jr., and looked at Wildwood. I like the way they do things. But I was a bit shocked at about $6k for a custom shop single pup LP Jr.!! That was just nuts! I bought a real 1957 at a local shop for $4300. I'm glad I kept enough of everything else around. I knew there would be a good reason to be a pack rat sooner or later. LOL Thanks, Peace --gary

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yeah, no kidding. I wish I’d kept the guitars I owned when I was young! Thanks so much for watching.

[@SolarVergmoid]

Recently acquired a 2024 Gibson LP Modern. Love it. This week I also got a Epiphone 59 ES 355. Love it JUST AS MUCH. Both are keepers.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s great. Enjoy them and thanks for watching.

[@maier43]

I've played a lot of Fender Stratocasters. My own, but also those of colleagues. Today I play a Fender Japan Strat and am completely happy with it. Plays and sounds great and the workmanship is excellent. I couldn't wish for anything better. Price was 1100 euros,

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, I didn’t address Fender Japan because IMO, Japan has been right up there meeting or exceeding USA quality for decades.

[@Havanacuba1985]

Absolutely ,fender Japan has mostly been considered equal or superior to American built for ages

[@monahantp3767]

Another excellent video! True that the quality of import guitars has risen far above what was available when I was starting out in the early 80s. It's good to know a musician doesn't have to drop $1K on something to be reliable :)

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s very true and an important point. It’s not all about what’s “better”. Thanks for watching.

[@bluzmansix]

Thanks for a nice honest video and I largely agree. When you consider some of the higher end Asian brands like Ibanez or Eastman (even the cheaper models) the gaps decrease further and often disappear. IMHO if you factor in the tone/response of individual guitars I would say there is no gap - just guitars.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, I couldn’t agree more. Thanks for watching.

[@lazvt8469]

100% agree on everything you've said. Tons of guitars...and it's truly all about playability and sound. My recent AIO TC4 ($400 T-style), set up to perfection by AIO luthiers for incredible playability....and for sound, a set of used Suhr Class T's....gives me as much sonic joy as my Custom Shop with its Chicago Specials. Spend more if you want to 'experience' something special or scratch an itch....but at the end of the day....no need to go broke these days acquiring/building a pro-grade guitar....at least not a Tele.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, that’s exactly what I alluded to when I pointed out almost any properly built guitar can be made to play great, when put in the hands of an experienced luthier.

[@mitjajan5563]

I have and play Strats, Teles, Gibsons LP..., all made in USA for 40 + years. I won't say you can' find good Epiphone or Squier, but you must chase for it. A very few are good enough, what is, from my oppinion, not the case with USA made gutars- they are 80-90% OK. In the past I've had a few Fender -Made in Japan, also a few Tokai (LP copy), all very, very well made and sonicaly great guitars, but those days are over. Life is to short to play cheap and sonicaly destituted guitars. Else; thanks for a great video, sir.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

And thank you for watching.

[@philnewton2011]

Good insights! Great playing.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks so much.

[@standingbadger]

You hit the nail on the head. It's always nice to own a more expensive instrument but cheaper instruments are killing it these days for quality and playability. I've always had nothing but good things to say about G&L's Tribute line - manufactured in the far east but using the same pickups and some hardware, like their bridges and saddles, as their American-made counterparts. Amazing value, tone and playability for the money.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, the Tributes are solidly made and a fine value. Like most factory guitars, the fretwork and setups can be hit or miss, but that’s normal even for many far more expensive instruments. Thanks for tuning in.

[@stuartdennis8506]

I recently bought a Sire T3 and I’m loving it, but what it’s also done is make me play my 1998 Epiphone Les Paul again and it turns out I still love that as well. What I have found, though, is that modern small amps don’t sound as good as my *very old* Squire 15w amp I bought in 1997. It like modern amps sell themselves on choice of tones/flexibility, but are actually more limited as they enforce tonal parameters. Genuinely, I’ve felt really shortchanged by modern practice amps. Maybe they just weren’t meant for me. Great video as always!

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks so much my friend. I’ve never really bought practice amps so I can’t speak to that. Closest I’ve ever bought to a practice amp was a couple of small, “lunchbox” amp heads I used to carry for emergency backup.

[@southsidejohnny5624]

Hey Stuart, I too got a Sire, the T7, and it’s fantastic. I have a couple of late 90s Epiphone LPs (made in Korea) too. One is completely stock and the other has been modded (not by me) and they are both excellent, but different, guitars. I’ve had Gibsons and Fenders but wouldn’t dream of buying one now. I’m currently looking at going all in on an Eastman SB59.

[@BigSifu67]

It's a golden age of Affordable guitar gear. Having said that, Epiphone semi-hollow and hollow body guitars have always been well regarded. I've always wanted a Gibson Les Paul, and this may be my year to pull the trigger. Great video that I enjoyed a lot.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Sounds like a great plan. Thanks for watching.

[@msaintpc]

Excellent video!👍

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you so much.

[@johnwalsh3919]

Brilliant video Leonard really interesting, all the guitars no matter where they come from sound fantastic in your hands !! I wonder does that say something ? Take care ✌️🧷🎸

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks so much. Well yes. It’s often forgotten the player is the most important component. We all sound like ourselves regardless.

[@JohnAvillaHerpetocultural]

I own a Fender Elite Strat, a Fender Player Strat, a Squire Std (22 fret) Strat and a Squire 50’s CV Strat. They are closer than you would have ever thought. The actual build quality and feel are on par. The biggest differences are in the hardware and electronics. I am putting aftermarket nuts on all three non USA Strats and swapping out the string trees and bridge saddles on the Player and Squire Std. The string tree on the CV seems fine and I am keeping the saddles too for now. I have had the Elite since February or March and I just got the others in the last month. I played a Std American for years before that. Edited to add, I purchased the three lower end Strats so I don’t have to take the Elite out of my house.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, the Squiers I’ve reviewed have all been built solidly enough, but let down a bit by their pickups and hardware. Some more than others. Thanks so much for watching.

[@JohnAvillaHerpetocultural]

@@leonardgriffieblues5845 agreed, BUT, I actually like the sound I get from the squires. I don’t know if I would say it’s really vintage but the lower output definitely gives a little of that vibe. It like it’s dirty but in a good way. Spot on with the hardware though. That said, I have decided to leave the CV stock. I thought the old school stamped bridge saddles with their proud screws would be uncomfortable but so far it hasn’t been and I do a lot of muting.

[@Freeontheland2030]

Thanks for going through the comparison, I think they all sounded great and the lower cost of the offshore guitars allows you to have more variety in the stable. It seems to me even the resale value is not great anymore for most guitars no matter what they are with some exceptions of course.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Resale is something often cited as a big advantage for the more valuable instruments. But I’ve been forced to do a lot of buying and selling since I began this channel, and honestly, on a percentage basis, it’s about the same for recently made guitars. Thanks for watching.

[@allenmahan9393]

Great video 🎸

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you so much.

[@brianhansen-hj3ml]

For me, what really matters is that a pro like Leonard can play his ass off on a guitar from anywhere and sound great. That’s what I aspire to. The guitar can be made in Antarctica or Mars for all I care.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

You’re too kind. Thanks so much.

[@CJZM7777]

Fair enough analysis. I have a 1997 Heritage H535 (like ES335) that retails for roughly $3K and a PRS SE McCarty 594 Standard that I got on sale with new customer discount for $597. I love both but play the PRS SE far more as I leave it on the stand and don't worry about it. It plays, sounds and looks great.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes. PRS does a nice job with their SE line. Thanks for watching.

[@robertsuszek2327]

Thank you.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

And thank you for watching.

[@roxyroxburgh9566]

Great video...and your blues playing is FAB! Just so lyrical and inventive. Cheers.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you so much.

[@realledbetter5015]

Interesting subject but even more impressive is your playing & the tone you are coaxing out of some of the cheaper axes.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you so much my friend. I automatically compensate for any guitars quirks so I’ll always sound like me. It’s completely subconscious.

[@donnymac575]

I couldn't hear a difference between the USA vs ASIA guitars played in this video. They all sounded great.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks so much for watching.

[@robert-wr6md]

But they feel different. I bought an Epi Les Paul to compare with my Gibson Les Paul, and the Epi was like a photocopy of the original. The Gibson had some poor detailing that would never have passed A PRS quality control, but it felt better, not a facsimile. The Epi was quite frankly horrible and I don't think it sounded very good either. I sold them both when I lost my job. The Gibson lost thousands the Epi a hundred. LOL.

[@5150show]

Love my Epiphones . My squires,

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

They can be solid, workhorse guitars. Thanks for watching.

[@Wooburnmusic]

Gibson Les Paul deluxe, the mini humbuckers say it all, ....... A sound and guitar forever, this gentleman knows how to find great sounds, respect.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you my friend.

[@GuitarQuackery]

I like your picking.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks, appreciated. 😎

[@misterschubert3242]

There is absolutely a difference between USA and Mexican Fenders. From experience, I've had three Mexican Fenders that qualified for warranty service upon unboxing. I have played PRS SEs and each one was outstanding. Best value in modern guitars. My Squier Telecaster is one of the most beautiful guitars I've seen, played and heard. It's a great time to be a learning musician, with so many excellent entry-level options, but other aspects are also unfortunately taking the ability to make music away...

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

First, if you watched the video, you’ll know I was addressing the claims made on KZbin, specifically about the big company’s Asian made imports relative to their USA made guitars. That said, I’ve reviewed a number of Mexican made Fenders and most have been fine, just needing a little fret and setup work, and one was outstanding. See my videos on the Vintera II 60s Strat. I agree with you about the PRS SEs. I’ve reviewed a bunch of them and they’ve been uniformly good right out of the box. There are reasons for this I go into in some of the reviews. Thanks for watching.

[@JoeDiehlMusic]

You sound great, as always. A great player as yourself can make literally any guitar sound great. I feel that mostly the difference between a cheap instrument and an expensive one is only apparent and noticeable to the player, especially if you use gain and effects. Also, technology has allowed for China and other countries to produce really good and legit instruments.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you my friend. Yes, a really good luthier can make almost any decent guitar play very well. Most people think a guitar is bad when they pick it up and it plays badly. But that’s usually just a matter of fretwork and setup.

[@Kevin-mx1vi]

When I began playing bass in the late 60's I was told "You can't play good music on a bad instrument", and cheap guitars were BAD ! Nowadays there are plenty of very good instruments at very affordable prices, so you can get 90% of a "big name" instrument for 20% of the price.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

It’s usually a matter of fretwork and setup. Nothing is actually built wrong these days. Thanks for watching.

[@mannymejia7972]

Love the shirt, I haven’t seen those cartoons in years.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

It was a gift. I like it too. Thanks.

[@rigorhead01]

I totally agree that Asian products are capable of being just as good as any other country of origin. Taking a popular, expensive product and manufacturing it to price point as low as possible while still retaining as much quality as possible is an extremely lucrative business model. The company makes a ton of money and the consumer gets a great product for way less money. So it makes sense to manufacture the products in a place where the labor is less expensive, use less expensive yet still very functional materials, hardware, etc. But these countries are certainly capable of producing products (guitars in this case) that are just as good as any USA made guitar, but the market has been determined, stereotypes created, and at this point it is what it is.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Not only are they capable but several companies are doing it. I’ve been very impressed by Eastman Guitars and have reviewed quite a few. As for the USA companies that are outsourcing, well the truth is, it’s what keeps them afloat. Thanks so much for watching

[@paulfrederick8902]

All 3 of my Fender P-basses are MIM. As opposed to the ones made in the U.S. I heard someone say "You can have a guitar made by Mexicans in the U S. or a guitar made in Mexico by Mexican's" Pretty true that.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, I’ve reviewed some MIM Fenders that were very nice. The Vintera II 60s Strat was outstanding. Not the subject of this video, but I generally agree about MIM Fender

[@jeremythornton6090]

I’m a 69 year old guy who never fell for the big name brand game. I think all of my 15 guitars are foreign built and I love them all. Well, all are foreign except for my. Norman 12 string acoustic. I’m Canadian and it was built in Quebec.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I’ve never played a Norman but I’ve heard good things. Thanks for watching.

[@ckallaher]

I have that Epi LP Special in TV Yellow you were playing at the beginning and I love it. That guitar was $499 brand spanking new from Sweetwater. Would I get the Gibson if I won the lottery? Maybe, but even then only because I love it in that walnut finish that’s only available from Gibson. The thing I really love about the cheaper guitars is that I can buy and sell them with far less risk, which I like. If I spent $2000 or more on a “serious” guitar would I fall in love and never yearn to try that cool guitar I saw Leonard play on his channel? Maybe, but id rather not risk the money to find out. Great playing as always, Leonard!

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you so much.

[@guitarradioshow]

I agree with every point. But, I think there’s only one aspect we are not considering and that’s resale value. In most cases the US model will likely appreciate where the import may not. BUT (😂) having said that I’m seeing Squires from 1995 starting to creep up to some startling prices. Great video.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Sure, the resale thing didn’t really enter into it. But yeah, in general the expensive guitars will appreciate given time. However I’ve noticed that if you don’t wait several years, the devaluation is pretty similar on a percentage basis. Thanks for watching.

[@guitarradioshow]

@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Oh, for sure. I’m blown away what a 70’s Fender (not originally highly regarded) are fetching now. I don’t imagine an 80’s Squire will compete with the Fender of the same decade, but as you pointed out some of the imports really rival the US made. Particularly with PRS. I’m astounded by the workmanship there. BTW, your playing is really great. Tasty. We need more of that. Have a great weekend.

[@kenster865]

I'm in violent agreement that the differences today are often minimal. One of the finest Strat necks I own came off a MIJ "photo-flame" Strat I found used in a local Guitar Ctr in the mid 90's. I wound up building myself a new Strat using that MIJ neck with a new American Body and all new high end hardware some years later. It's a GREAT Strat!! However, I tend to buy the American products in most cases. It's not that they necessarily play/sound better, but their re-sale value will hold up better IMHO. That may be a false perception on my part but I doubt it. Cheers!! 🙂🙃🙂

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks so much for watching. Yes, I believe the USA instruments hold value longer and can even increase over time depending on the model. However, if you sell without waiting too long, then I find the depreciation percentage is pretty similar. Again, depending on what model. For example can buy an excellent condition USA Les Paul Standard, which retailed for nearly $3K, for as low as $1800. That’s a 40% hit. A $700 import will likely do a little better. Maybe 35%. But it’ll be worth less as it ages. So the resale thing is largely dependent on timing. And again, popularity of model.

[@belmontbutty4143]

Hi Leonard, all very good points. My guitars are either Mexican (Fender) or Epiphone (China). I've had to work on them (set up; frets etc) but for my skill level they are perfectly fine instruments. The only American instrument I owned, a Fender Ampro II Jazzmaster, was a QC disaster. I'm not saying that means all US made guitars are no good, or a waste of money. I think they are aspirational instruments, and the vast majority are well made. I would like at some point to own another US guitar. But in the interim, at least Fender and Gibson/Epiphone are providing lower price points that make decent instruments within reach of either gigging musicians or enthusiastic amateurs like myself. Ps, I haven't mentioned PRS simply because they don't float my boat. To me, they are superbly engineered and their QC is second to none; I just don't connect with them visually. As always, your playing is a pleasure to watch.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks so much. Having guitars you enjoy is all that matters.

[@theroadsnearyou...5088]

When you’re gigging, unless there’s a guitar anorak in the audience, no one cares if you’re using a Fender or Squire if you’re playing is good!🤘🤪

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes. The main focus should always be the playing.

[@odblooded1]

I sold off a 2021 Gibson 50's standard to purchase a new HD28. I recently picked up a 2024 IGCS 59 Les Paul, and I have to say I'm really enjoying the Epiphone after a polishing to semi gloss and a good set up. I actually prefer the neck on the 59 and like the custombuckers more than the BB 1&2's (though they were great too). I'm now reconsidering whether I even need to grab another Gibson at all (unless an actual R9). There are some truly great guitars coming out of Asia if the name on the headstock isn't a barrier, I suggest trying a few out in person and make the call from there.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s really the key, play the guitar and evaluate on its own merits, not the name on the headstock. If it does what you want it to do, what more do you need? Thanks for watching.

[@Michel-r6m]

Got two reasonably priced guitars (Gretsch Electromatic HH and Sire S3 HSS) one made in China the other Indonesia. What I want to point out is that quality is a company decision and has nothing to do with the location of manufacture. I like my guitars (total about $800 new) not high end but for me good enough, keepers 🤠 Would not mind owning a 335 as well 😎

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

A good 335 is a great guitar. Thanks so much for watching.

[@edatkinson322]

Try the Firefly 338 it’s a pretty good representation of the 335. Mine has upgraded Epi pro buckers and upgraded electronics and to me every bit as good as the 1967 335 I had a few years back and for $300 😮

[@JeanLeite-d1e]

Indonesia has been kicking American guitar companies asses for the last 8 years! Better quality AND more consistency in their builds too! Look at Sire Guitars for example. I would put their level of quality and sound up against Fender and Gibson both!

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

They do a nice job. I’ve reviewed at least three Sires and they’ve all been very nicely made. Thanks for watching.

[@Olysterz]

Unfortunately, no fame nor prestige

[@orlock20]

Cort has made so many guitars for big name companies for decades that the name on the headstock and the name of the builder should be separated by reviewers. The only time people separate the builder from the brand name is when they say Mexican Fender.

[@markdakel9253]

In my opinion, it comes down to the longevity of the instrument. If you gig 3 nights a week, then spend more $ ,get a better-quality guitar, another issue is the “you have to buy it to try it” with online retailers having inventory that local guitar shops don't have, you can not compare 1 to the other to see what fits the needs of the individual player

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That is a problem. And how much you spend is no indicator of how well something will work for you. Back in about 2005 I bought a Custom Shop Gibson thinking I was safe from QC issues by buying CS. Didn’t work that way at all. It was riddled with sloppy workmanship and thankfully I was able to sell it for what I paid. If you buy online, the return policy is more important than the price. Thanks for watching.

[@scaredypicker]

My PRS 594 SE is as good as any American guitar I’ve ever played. The only thing that lets it down slightly are the tuners, which are an easy and inexpensive thing to swap out. Furthermore, my Eastman grand concert acoustic guitar is the finest quality guitar I’ve ever owned. You’d honestly think it was a Martin. The times are changing - Asian guitars are some of the best out there.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

There are great ones to be had for those that evaluate objectively. Thanks for watching.

[@robertmellang6998]

They are just guitars. A cheap guitar is way better than a guitar you don’t own because it’s insanely expensive.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s some sensible pragmatism right there. Thanks for watching.

[@markmcdonald5711]

I have a Epi LP Special and a Gibson LP Junior, the Jr has nicer paint and the frets are Plekked at the factory and it comes with a nice case. Maybe the wood and the P-90's are better on the Gibson but I don't regret buying the Epi, it's such a good guitar for the money.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

If it does he job or you just enjoy it, that’s all that really matters. Thanks so much for watching.

[@calvinevans6347]

For me... the MOST important thing about the guitar instrument is that i LOVE, really ENJOY, and have FUN with playing it. When each time l play it, i play it longer than i intended to. That can happen at ALL price points! I have a collection now. But, if i could start the collection over, i would have bought guitars based on what I've learned rather than the name on the headstock. That way, i would have a collection of guitars i LOVE PLAYING as opposed to a collection of guitars. Regardless of their value or re-sale value. I'd rather have a cheaper guitar i love to play over an expensive guitar that i don't vibe with. Buy what feels right over what looks right. LOL!!!

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s absolutely right my friend. Enjoyment is important even for those of us who’ve made a living playing the things. Thanks for watching.

[@Anonymous-si6py]

I worked in a stinking steel factory all summer in 1979 to save up enough money for a brand new, genuine Fender Stratocaster. I bought a new 1976 Strat in egg shell white. That was the last time I ever purchased a US guitar. There was a sizeable gap between the neck and neck pocket, the three point neck tilt adjustment made the neck move, the vibrato didn't work and the goons at Fender painted (yes, PAINTED) LACQUER ALL OVER THE FRETS OF THE MAPLE FRETBOARD. I subsequently switched to Ibanez and no-name brands and never looked back. A few years later, I worked for a Gibson importer. The way overpriced junk coming from the US was horrible. I worked in the music industry for 25 years and know what a good guitar is. The logo "Gibson" or "Fender" or the country of origin do not determine the quality of a guitar. I have three Les Paul copies made in China made from African mahogany with a poplar cap and maple veneer. The action, playability, sound and overall finish is better than the best Gibson Les Paul I had in my hands when selling genuine American guitars. Generally, yes, a US guitar should have better hardware. However, the guitars I have bought recently are flawless with exceptional hardware and pickups. The gap is, depending on who manufactured the guitar, not so huge anymore. Gibson and Fender should be ashamed of themselves for still shipping junk to stores to sell to unsuspecting buyers under the guise of US made. No one cares about that label anymore.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thanks for watching, and for your perspective.

[@Edward1312]

People do care about the label, if they didn't, Gibson and Fender would go out of business, especially when you consider how much more their guitars cost compared with the equally well made competition.

[@joeycordeiro3198]

We will not be SEEN playing a Eppi or a Squire at 58 years old with a exstencive vintage collection.. But we do love our Fireflys that get modded and share rack space with the hi ends. .

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Interesting. I have yet to look at a Firefly, they’ve been so extensively covered. Thanks for watching.

[@breft3416]

Playing a variety of guitars is fun at any level. There is a difference between a 4k USA LP and an import, even a good import.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

And I said so in the video. Thanks for watching.

[@adp5R3x]

There are Collectables & there are guitars you play in Bars : Something of Reasonable quality you wouldn't be broken hearted if it got destroyed in a brawl ... Reality !

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I did fly-in gigs to several countries with my Gibson 335. Always made me a little nervous and I would have loved to have the Epiphone 150th Anniversary Sheraton for that. Not cheap, but a third the price of the Gibson and way easier to replace. Now that I’ve retired from touring, it still makes sense for local shows. Thanks so much for watching.

[@vincentvancraig]

i just bought a 2023 american performer strat...its a bad ass machine, it honks & screams. its got some unique stock mods (i believe its called the glmour mod)...anyway, its got some sounds, switch positions strats usualky dont have, i really love it.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I like the American Performer series. I reviewed the Tele version and it was a real winner. Thanks for watching.

[@dennismason3740]

In 2017 I purchased an Epi SG for 227 dollars, including shipping. The paint job was a bit rushed in a Chinese factory...I fixed it with a fine sanding with proper grit. I set the intonation and action. The sanding gave it a very smooth natural wear look. The neck (a bolt-on!) is effin perfect, the tuners and electronics are fine. Plays like a mofo. 227 bucks, kids, Epiphone has been good to me for 55 years. Sweetwater sales reps don't even know that this guitar is in their inventory. They wanted 60 bucks for a set-up.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s a great story and highlights the fact there’s nothing mysterious here. Thanks so much for watching and engaging.

[@user-abcxyz-xr2eg]

Now, the biggest difference will always be in prices, that's for sure. To have fun by playin guitar I don't need Fs or Gs, hat's for sure too!

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

You certainly don’t. Thanks for watching.

[@gringogreen4719]

Love the Felix shirt!🤣 It depends. If you want to Rock a guitar stock, go for Gibson and Fender. If you want a workhorse guitar that you can mod, Squier and Epiphone guitars are hard to beat! To how I play guitar, once I mod my Squier and Epiphone guitars vs stock Gibson and Fender, there isn't a huge difference in tone. Keep in mind you have older Squier and Epiphone guitars that were US made back in the day too, so be careful what you say. I have seen guitars that are shit on at one time is celebrated years down the road. So buy what you like.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Buy and play what you like really is the point. Thanks so much for watching.

[@gringogreen4719]

@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Of course, good stuff here!😉👍✨

[@timesurfingalien]

I've seen a few "blind" test, 99% couldn't tell you one from another. Name on a headstock is just that. Chinese, Indonesian, Korea, Vietnam all produce OEM for all the "big" names.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, it really comes down to what works for the player, which should be obvious. Thanks for watching.

[@stephenleung9189]

My latest guitar purchases were Ibanez and Fender Japan, no US made guitars anymore. It’s purely for the reasons of price and quality.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Guitars from Japan are really best of both worlds. Super high quality, but still, though not at all cheap, less expensive than USA guitars. A great way to go. Thanks for watching.

[@rogertinker1813]

They all sounded good enough for me

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you my friend.

[@hardlines2635]

I was a guitar snob, not anymore. Had a Squire strat, did some work on it, Came into money so splashed out on a new Fender strat, after two weeks returned it, I’m travelling around now looking for another Squire.

[@rustyshackleford9557]

I am not sure what they go for now but those old Squier Pro Tone strats sure are nice.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

You’re not the first one that’s enjoyed the Squiers more. A good guitar is a good guitar, and when you find a good one it really doesn’t matter what the name on the headstock is. Thanks for watching.

[@bensatterwhite5694]

The big companies that manage quality control of their import guitars close the distance considerably between them and the USA models. Home players and weekend warriors at the joints can take advantage of the savings and get great playing guitars.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s true enough. Thanks for watching.

[@JasonViator]

Sounds to me like the only thing I should pay more for....is lessons ... It really sounds like tone is in the hands sir.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Thank you my friend. Yes, it is true the player is the most important part of the signal chain. At the end of the day, we always sound like ourself.

[@Mark_Z1]

I can find great quality off brand guitars, for under $500. I have 2 guitars I paid $250 for, that came with roasted necks, bone nut, locking tuners, rounded and polished stainless steel frets, mahogany body, excellent quality wiring and controls. The only mod I made on them was changing the pickups. The big brand names, will have to come down on price a lot, to get me back. I really don’t care if they do or not. Plenty of great guitars at good prices, can be found. Now I’m spoiled on stainless steel frets, it’s the first thing I check for, if I’m going to even consider buying the guitar.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Buy what suits your needs. That’s always job one. Thanks for watching.

[@FredBeltran-o3d]

I have always preferred Epis over Gibson. I have owned both. I have always found that higher end Epis are just more playable than lower end Gibson's. I used to call them my Korean Gibson's. Now that everyone has a CNC machine it's getting hard to justify over priced/hyped usa guitars. My latest epi is a new ES 339 and I'll ping it against its Gibson brother any day.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

It’s mostly in the fret leveling and setup. Take care of those and the guitars themselves are solid. Thanks for watching.

[@IndyRockStar]

It's no longer largely about quality. It's about features, process, and feel.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Certainly true to one extent or other. Build quality has grown reasonably consistent, but quality of materials does generally go up with price. How much that matters to any given player is another thing. Thanks for watching.

[@gingerbeer914]

I discovered that the Squier Telecaster pickups and the Japanese Fender Telecaster pickups have much LESS resistance (less coils of copper wire) than the made in USA Fender Telecaster pickups. THAT is the only reason why Fender Telecasters blow the cheaper Japanese, and Mexicans Fenders and the Squiers from Korea, China and Indonesia away. The resistance of a made in USA Fender Telecaster neck pickup is ±7.3 kOhm, which is as much as an average humbucker from Gibson or Maxon (in vintage Ibanez guitars), such as the Super 70s and Super 58s. So IMHO, buying a butterscotch Squier CV Telecaster for €400.- and upgrading it with an American loaded blackguard would lead to a guitar that performs as good as a Made in USA Fender Telecaster. The upgrades might cost you €300.-, but the total of €700.- is still much less than the price of a Fender American Professional II Telecaster or an AV II 51 (€1830 and €2200).

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Certainly a valid approach to take, especially if you can also work on the playability yourself. Thanks for watching.

[@msmoniz]

I have 3 Squier Telecasters, 2 of the the the CV series and having compared them to similar USA made versions, the USA versions may feel/play slightly better sometimes(not that I've really noticed it) they are also 2 to 3 times the price, but definitely NOT 3 times better guitars! Thanks to CNC machining, the gap is closing and in some cases, so narrow that it just becomes about if you're willing to pay extra for the prestige name on the headstock IMO. Heck I'm guilty of it as I just bought a used 2021 Gibson Les Paul Junior because I love the Tobacco Burst on it over the Epiphone's much darker hue. BUT this Junior is on par with a mid 2000's FugiGen Epiphone 50's style Les Paul Special I bought a few years back that someone imported from Japan as it was a Japanese domestic market only guitar with the Gibson open book headstock. I have yet to play a production USA Gibson version of the same model the last 30 years that sounds and plays as nice as the Japanese Epiphone version I own.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

They make some very fine guitars in Japan. Thanks for watching.

[@bkmeahan]

I've said it a thousand times. My most expensive guitars are a G&L CLF Research Espada and a Made in Fullerton Doheny. They are great guitars and much better than my G&L Tributes, Squier CVs and Epiphones, but they aren't 4 times better.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I’ve been really impressed by G&L’s USA guitars. See my video on the USA Legacy

[@Bwiser63]

Epiphones are some of my favorite guitars I own a few Gibson’s and Fenders that I want to leave in original condition but the Epiphones I like to tinker with and replace pickups and stuff like that and to me there just as good as the real American made Gibson’s and I just bought a black Squire Stratocaster at a yard sale for 20$ with no scratches but the pickups and wiring harness blows but when I get to work on that and replace those things and do a little tweaking I’ll bet it will be just as good’s as my America made Fender Strat.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Plenty of good players have done fine work on Squiers. The player is always the most important piece of the puzzle. Thanks for watching.

[@RuggeroBelloni]

Electrics may be getting better because electronincs are crucial. I have played mostly traditional acoustic Blues for nearly 60yrs and I have never heard a non USA acoustic that sounds "right". Fine EU ones have a touch of classical that may be fine for Celtic, New Age etc. but not "roots", meaning the real guys 20s to 40s some of whom I met and played with, not the imitators,even the good ones. I play a 1948 Gibson Southern Jumbo, paid $1300 in '98 and could not afford one now at 10 times the price in this crazy market. It has what all import guitars and even some new US ones lack: Soul.You hear the wood,not just strings and it speaks and cries.I am not biased being Northern Italian going back 250 years. When I moved to San Diego in '79 to 98, US friends teased me for playing Martin&Gibson and driving a '61 Coupe de Ville. My answer? Why fly to California to play a Takamine and drive a Toyota? Even some Kays, Harmony and other Monkey Ward or Sears from the 40's and 50's are all solid woods and while not as refined have a true American sound. BTW you make every guitar sound great and with your own touch. They always said that about me on any acoustic but I want gear that speaks to me, even my Uke is a 100yr old koa Martin, asian ones are toys. 🇺🇲❤ ❤

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, good USA made acoustic guitars are tough to match. I wouldn’t agree all Asian made acoustics are toys. That seems a bit harsh and I’ve played some Eastmans which were decent. Though again, I’d agree they don’t have the depth and complexity of something like a good Martin. Then again, they’re a fraction of the price. But yeah, if I were mainly an acoustic performer, it’d be a Martin, a Collings, or maybe a Santa Cruz. I prefer 12 fret models and they all make great ones. I’ve always found Gibson acoustics to be slightly hit or miss. I’ve played some that were absolute magic and others that were pretty dead sounding. Thanks so much for watching.

[@RuggeroBelloni]

@leonardgriffieblues5845 I meant Ukes when I said toys, many guitars are decent. On Gibsons I agree, some students were knocked out by my '48 SJ and bought even older banner models that were average. Hit or miss is right. Martin is more consistent and I owned Mossman, Gallagher and others that had that special US sound. 12 fretters are often sweeter (bridge in the ideal spot). All the best

[@benallmark9671]

I personally think the difference between the Epiphone Inspired by and Gibson’s are further apart compared to the MiM Fender’s and the American made ones. I’m sure many will argue that I’m wrong and that’s ok this is simply my opinion.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I don’t think you’re wrong at all. There’s a reason MIM Fender wasn’t part of this conversation. The factories are 50 miles apart and they exchange parts all the time. They could almost be thought of as one big factory. Thanks for watching.

[@harolddavis4138]

I love my fender Tele professional 2, so much more than any other fender I've played in the last 50 years.

[@SolarVergmoid]

My wife bought me a 2024 Gibson LP Modern for my 70th - after going through all the Epi’s and even other Gibsons. The Modern just had a great neck that played ‘just a little bit nicer’. So on my actual birthday my 91 yr. old mother, my sister, and my son bought me the new Epiphone 59 ES 355 in cherry. Of course I closely scrutinized it, played it for an hour or so. It is PERFECT. No aesthetic ‘mistakes’ - _flawless_ fit and finish. It sounds fabulous. The Gibson (4K) was discovered in the quieter confines of my home, to have a few high frets. Just _slightly_ high, so to be fair, that’s not abnormal seeing as guitars need some time to ‘settle in’. BOTH guitars are absolutely fantastic to play. I EXPECT that from Gibson, but the Epiphone 355 was a delightful surprise. I have a great family too, which doesn’t hurt either.

[@benallmark9671]

@@SolarVergmoid very nice Sir. I hope you enjoy it and indeed it sounds like you have a great family.

[@SolarVergmoid]

@@benallmark9671 Thanks. Just to be clearer, we are not a ‘richy rich’ bunch, comfortable, but not multi millionaires or anything. They just really like me for some reason…blew my 70 yr.old mind. That Epi is so close to being a Gibson, couldn’t be much closer. Best wishes.

[@edigabrieli7864]

I have a few Epi's but the Ultra III model is my best one. Is 15 years old and the features on this guitar surpass that of any Gibson. Out of the box it was just perfect and no need for upgrades and probably this is the reason why they stop production, if you get a chance to find a used one buy it immediately it come with a Piezo Mic, double jack input for both Piezo and regular PU and a switch to go from one to the other, also a tuner, and USB port to connect to a PC. The construction is equal to Gibson and the electronics are top quality and playability is top, this guitar play itself.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I’m not familiar with that model. I’ll keep my eyes open. Thanks for watching.

[@ro307805]

Fair points. My experience though is that the MIJ epi phone elitist , plus Tokai, Burny, and Greco MIJ copies are the only Asian guitars that truly approach the best USA models. The Chinese epiphones I’ve tried and owned always have a fatal flaw. No way I’m paying $1400 for one. When enough of the “inspired by Gibson” models hit the used market we will know more.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

As far as modern Epiphones are concerned, the latest (expensive) ones with the one piece necks, more correct builds and USA electronics have absolutely come the closest. Thanks for watching.

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

More times than not, the "B Brands" have the guitars you want. A good example of that was the Epiphone Les Paul Ultra III. For the same price of a Gibson Les Paul Studio, you got an archtop chambered guitar with great hardware, Burstbucker pickups, piezo, USB, tuner built in. If you opted for the LP Studio, you got an overpriced budget guitar with a Gibson logo. And for many years, Epiphone was the only option if you wanted a Gibson related guitar with 24 frets due to Gibsons releasing and quickly discontinuing the Buckethead signature and the SG Supreme. Even the Epiphone versions of some of the reissues were better than their Gibson equivalent, like the Nighthawk and the Wilshire.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

It seems to me Epiphone has been steadily improving. Thanks for watching.

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Before Gibson decided to take over and change the line (that was maybe 5 years ago), Epiphone had a much more interesting lineup of guitars than Gibson, which was heavily invested in those very expensive limited run exact copies of artist guitars.

[@kingkrollinvention]

are you using an amp for this? if you use amp plug ins you wont be able to tell much. plug ins make all guitars sound the same in my opinion. thanks for the video. I like all my guitars, Gibsons, fenders, squires and epiphones. they are all useful.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, I’m using my Fender Tone Master Deluxe Reverb. Regardless of your opinion of the amp, it sounds like an amp, not a plug in. In most cases the small amount of gain is just cranking the volume a bit. Any similarity you’re hearing is just the result of me playing, because at the end of the day, you’re always going to sound like you. Thanks so much for watching.

[@brostoevsky22]

One thing that confuses me, is when people put Seymour Duncan pickups (which are great) in Gibson guitars. There should be no reason to mod a $3000+ guitar. That being said the Seymour Duncan pick up upgrade is perfect for an Epiphone. The older Epiphones from Korea or the ones from China with the old headstock can really benefit from this upgrade. That's what both of my LPs are.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I imagine the reasons vary from just not liking the stock pickups to searching for a sound that’s probably about a lot more than pickups. And of course, there are a lot of people who just can’t leave anything alone. LOL Thanks for watching.

[@baycation]

Been Using PRS for many years. I have had them all!!! Recently had my trusty American PRS CE4 with PRS SE backup (tried several). Very noticeable difference in quality and playability. Sold the SE and bought a n American PRS S2 as a backup. Much better - the SE hype is just cleaver marketing. The American made stuff is so much better.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I agree the American stuff is better, but on balance I do think they do a nice job at that price point with the SEs. Thanks for watching.

[@ssolred]

Well, my Epiphone 150th Anniversary Sheraton is extremely well made and sounds fantastic. My only gripe is that it is being made in a totalitarian country.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

There is that, but the person building guitars in any country has no control over the government they find themselves living under. In short, there are always a lot of good people in bad situations, just trying to make a living. I have the 150th anniversary Sheraton as well and it’s a fine instrument, especially after having my luthier give it his deluxe fretwork. Thanks so much for watching.

[@markcaserta1367]

I would say the Squier Classic Viibes are just as good as Fender Players series. That much I know. I am a Fender Squier player.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Materials quality may not be quite on par, but build quality is very close. Classic Vibes are a great value and do the job nicely. Thanks for watching.

[@TheNobbynoonar]

Only my opinion, based on my own experience- Electric guitars don’t need to be made from expensive woods. I believe the early Fenders were made from timber that was available and relatively cheap. Pickups and electronics need to be made to specific standards. These standards are well known and proven and don’t need to be expensive. Once you get up to a certain point, regardless of how much money you throw at pickups and electronics, the sonic gains are small, if at all. Necks must be accurately made and join the body at the correct pitch-very important. Fret wire needs to be able to withstand wear from the strings. More importantly, the frets need to be levelled and profiled/polished correctly. Bridges, regardless of design and material, need to be fitted accurately to the guitar body in relation to the neck. Nuts, regardless of the material used, must be properly cut for the neck of the guitar and the gauge of strings used. Tuners don’t need to be expensive. They just need to turn smoothly and not to slip. There are probably a few more things that I’ve forgotten about, but those (to me) mentioned previously, are the biggest factors in producing a good quality instrument. I own several USA Gibsons and Fenders. They are fine instruments but……..I had to try a few out before I parted with my cash. All of the Gibsons I tried were manufactured after the company changed hands back in 1985. The quality, in general, was very good. They just needed setting up to my own personal tastes. I did try a few Gibsons and Fenders built in the 1970’s-very hit and miss. I don’t know if the instruments had been poorly maintained by previous owners, or had been ‘modified’ by people with a poor understanding of guitars, but some of them played and sounded crap, yet commanded big money-no thanks! Guitar quality has come a long long way from when I first started out. I own several instruments that were manufactured in the Far East. The Japanese Fenders are great guitars, as are make’s such as Epiphone. You really don’t need to spend big money to get a good quality guitar nowadays. Take your time, talk to as many people as you can who play, visit your local music store and talk to the staff there as well. I’m in the UK. I can pick up a decent quality guitar for around £300, maybe even less nowadays, I haven’t really looked lately. Also, DON’T FORGET- you’ll probably need an amp or amp simulator, guitar leads, guitar strap, case..etc..GOOD LUCK!

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I would largely agree. As I’ve said again and again, any correctly made guitar can be made to play wonderfully by a skilled luthier. Many buyers tend to judge a guitar to be bad based on the sorts of issues I would fully expect to need attention on most factory guitars, but especially affordable ones. Thanks for watching.

[@misterknightowlandco]

You don’t want to go too cheap though… I bought Indio Strat which was sold by monoprice by 80 dollars. The body literally unglued when the summer turned to fall 😂. I walked into my music room one morning and I had a piece of the body lying on the floor 😂. While I agree that the higher end squires and their similar competitors make perfectly fine guitars, I’d avoid that really low budget Amazon only Asian stuff. Squier classic vibes and mim Strats are great, just don’t go too budget friendly.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yeah, I don’t have much experience with the super cheap stuff. As I said in the video, I hadn’t played any of the affordable stuff until I began the channel. I did review an EART S style guitar. That was the least expensive but honestly, it wasn’t bad at all. Thanks for watching.

[@billybob-b7t]

is this concept clickbait? Stick around to find out! well played sir

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Oh, it clearly is clickbait, which is, of course, what I address in the video. Unfortunately I couldn’t think of a way to convey that without my title seeming a little clickbaity too. I should have tried a little harder though, because while most of the comments have been overwhelmingly positive, I have gotten a few who jumped to conclusions based on the thumbnail and seemed to think I was endorsing these assertions rather than responding to them. Thanks so much for watching.

[@billybob-b7t]

oh I see, thx for replying :D

[@MattMorgans]

Good morning Leonard, up until now I have had the greatest admiration for your reviews and playing. When I saw the title of this post my heart sank. All you have done is invited all the negative views of the “my guitar is better than yours” brigade to post their rants, about how Epiphone invented Gibson and Squier guitars and far superior to Fender Custom shop etc. Such a post is beneath you, and I am afraid you’ve lost me as a subscriber!

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I’m sorry to hear that. If you watched the video you would find I was trying to bring balance and offer counterpoint to those very rants you speak of.

[@MrBallynally2]

One can easily justify going w the higher end guitars...or the lower end guitars. How important is 'the gap' anyway? Or 'the bar'? I set the bar at playability and resonance. So, for me that puts me comfortably in the ( slightly) budget territory. Yes, the Gibsons and Fenders ARE (usually) better. Not enough better to warrant me purchasing any more big brands apart fr what i already have. So i stick w Epiphone and Squier.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

I’m a broken record on this but playability is all about the fretwork and setup. I’d you dig the guitar, any good luthier can make it play beautifully. Of course a hobby player won’t usually want to sink another $200 or more into a $400 guitar, but a working player will. Thanks so much for watching.

[@kevinschiller1749]

It's the song and the player jam on that jazzbox behind you

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

If you’re saying the player is the most important thing, you’re right. Thanks for watching.

[@TheClassicQ]

Value guitars sometimes need some help. Tuners, strings, maybe tail work. But, your hands and pickups is where the magic happens. Just enjoy moments of music you create . A logo is just a logo, a promise of quality not a guarantee of excellence.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s right. The player is the most important component. Thanks for watching.

[@Bixll09]

There may be a gap, but it is not 5X the money of a gap or more...

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

That’s true. Thanks for watching.

[@rustyshackleford9557]

As a mean spirited, cranky old guy who has played professionally for over 40+ years, let me ask: How great does a guitar hafta be to play "Mustang Sally" for a bunch of lonely average intelligence folks paying way, way too much for their drinks they are consuming in a filthy bar? ( Or a guy sitting in his bedroom 🤔) There is s big difference in NEED and want or prefer. I have done tons of guitar repair as an authorized service station for multiple guitar brands and honestly, most folks who own a guitar literally lack the skills to even simply strum Happy Birthday unless I literally told them the chords and even then most could not strum something that simple for 3 minutes without missing a change, turning around a beat or getting lost when the vocalist quits singing and they no longer have lyrics to prompt them for the changes. Folks are delusional, consumers who buy but rarely play and then argue over quality when they don't play well enough for it to matter. Dang! Almost ANY guitar can be set up to "feel" right. Folks just rarely spend 100$ having a 150$ guitar set up. I use an 89$ Grote at 90%of my jobs, in part just to demonstrate how silly it is to play a 2dollar song on a 2000$ guitar. Its like workout equipment. Bought not used.

[@leonardgriffieblues5845]

Yes, there certainly is a lot of that. It’s interesting. I created this channel after I had to retire from touring and while it’s generally been very well received, some comments have made me chuckle. I have quite literally never been a hobby player so it’s a world I’ve only become familiar with through the internet. You’re correct that any properly built guitar can be made to play great, and I say exactly that in the video. Thanks so much for watching.