Is Fender USA Ripping Us Off?

Which Fender Stratocaster is Best Value for Money.
Deep dive into Squier Affinity vs Made in Mexico Player Series vs American Professional Stratocaster.
We look at: Fender's Price Increases, Law of Diminishing Returns, Why USA are so expensive, Japanese Strats and recommended guitars for the price.
Guitars featured in the video:
- Squier Affinity Stratocaster, Sunburst - Made in Indonesia c.2007
- Fender Player Series Stratocaster, Tidepool - Made in Mexico 2019
- Fender American Original 60's Stratocaster, Candy Apple Red - Made in USA 2020
All music is just random riffs I came up with, recorded into Garage Band on iPad via Steinberg UR22.

[@johnw4659]

Whatever the opposite of 'Buyer's Remorse' is - that's what you'll feel if you buy a Squier. They are an incredible value and the quality is top notch.

[@davidharding200]

Soooo true!!! Exceptional build quality, great guitars. Good enough for Mike Rutherford of Genesis to be using live in 2022.

[@LionSpear]

Truth be told, quality of Squiers can vary. Even among Classic Vibes you can get an abysmal example. The price point for MIM Fenders is for consistency in quality rather than improvement of features.

[@frankrizzo5710]

If I have the money I’m going with at least a MIM

[@Barbarapape]

The Squire Affinity Strats were horrible guitars, made in China with muck metal parts and no quality control, and were not worth buying. Yes they have upgraded them, but my advice, pay a bit more and find a good example of a classic vibe, and upgrade it.

[@richsackett3423]

Well... all the pieces which are not wood are abject bottom-of-the-barrel crap. Necks and bodies are a nice starting point for an actually good guitar.

[@012jacob012]

IMO, Mexico/player strats are far and away the best cost vs quality ratio. They feel and sound great and outperform anything else at is price point. Just gotta make sure you play the exact guitar before you buy to ensure quality assurance.

[@DavidGarcia-kw4sf]

Two of my Fenders are MIM. One Player Plus Tele and a Vintera 50s Strat and I have to say I am very happy with them both. Very good quality and a reasonable price.

[@TUUK2006]

The reason the US Fenders sell is nothing other than psychological. Guitar players are fucking weird. It's the same reason some will put up with utter garbage old instruments because they're convinced that old means good. People will pay stupid money for a 60s Fender sight unseen simply because of the idea of it. It was a guitar made at a time where quality control was non-existent and you relied on many humans to do their job. Chances are that guitar is shite, but people will drool over it because it's an "old fender". Just like brand snobs who say every US made Fender is better than a Mexican. Mexican Fenders are as good, if not better in many cases than US and Japan knocked it out of the park as did Korea in its short run. There's a reason Fender stopped the Japanese buiding Squiers in the 80s, because they were doing such a good job that players caught on and stopped buying US guitars.

[@Eternal420ninja]

I bought an 04 Mexican strat at my local GC… $330 bucks and my roommate who owned a professional series strat said it played and sounded just as good. Now.. I do think the last owner swapped the pick ups so that’s a bit of a cheat but man, best value guitar I’ve ever owned easily

[@itsv1p3r]

This is very true, bought one without giving it a solid play and had to bring it back for a swap when I discovered a lot of rattle and ring on some of the frets

[@digitalrandomart3049]

@@TUUK2006 cost of labor is much cheaper thats why they are cheaper

[@LooseOrangeJuice]

This is great content. I appreciate how methodical you are, and how you explain that methodology up front. It makes it easy to follow along and primes the audience, so they know what to look out for as they watch the video.

[@helder6175]

I've owned practically every level of Fender from a Squier SE to a few Custom Shop models and even a Masterbuilt. Some of the best guitars I've had were partscasters which I had assembled myself and saved big bucks on them with various 'Made in..."anywhere" parts. I've sold the more expensive stuff and have kept a couple USA partscasters and the Squier SE (modded), and couldn't be happier. Technically, aren't all Fender partscasters anyway? ...unlike Gibson and Gretsch guitars.

[@GerryBlue]

Same here, never understood the term partscaster. The common Strat IS a partscaster, chance dictated that a certain neck was attached to a certain body. I too have three American Strats I put together.

[@Mountainrock70]

There’s no need to mention names, but we all have seen many professionals playing “partscasters.” The design of a Strat or Tele is so basic that I don’t see the need to be hung up on a brand name at all. Id actually prefer a Tele to have a blank headstock or a symbol on it, but that’s just me. I feel sorry for the chumps who look to brand first. If it plays, sounds and looks good, it is good!

[@Astro_touches_children]

@@Mountainrock70 playable neck is my first requirement, then pickups. If it's a great playing/sounding "Hello Kitty" I'll play it.

[@eutychuspumpkinbomb4412]

It’s not “basic.” You simply don’t know what you’re talking about. Obviously there are tons of “super strat” rip-offs and homemade partscasters of wildly varying qualities. Fender is a reliably quality brand, so what are you whining about? You think all head stocks should be blank so that you need to play a hundred different guitars before you can find one that feels and sounds good? Not all “chumps” have the time for that. It makes more sense to just go for the USA-made Fender. The prices are completely reasonable and affordable, so what is your problem?

[@Mountainrock70]

@@eutychuspumpkinbomb4412 I guess it’s that time of the month for you huh? Yeah Fender are very basic simple guitars. I build electrics myself. Build a Tele then try to build a Les Paul. You will then know what I mean by basic. Maybe try Midol

[@Dan-no4tl]

I've been playing guitar since 1963. I would consider myself a journeyman blues guitarist. I've had a lot of vintage stratocasters because they were cheap when I was growing up. You could walk into a pawn shop and pick up one for a couple hundred dollars. I bought a Road worn Stratocaster back in 2010. It was a Mexican made one. I don't think there's a nickel's worth of difference between that guitar and a real 63 I had back in the 90s. The neck feels the same sounds the same they are great guitars.

[@mneugent7658]

Yeah, and do people in America know who populates the workforce in Southern California where Fender USA is located? Mexicans! Hell, they might even be related to some of the folks in the Mexican factory. And from my experiences the Mexican people are very hard working people with pride in their efforts. When I first saw "Made In Mexico" on a Fender I thought "shit, this might be better"! I work around a lot of Mexicans, I vacation in Mexico. I think the absolute world of their work ethic and I bet that factory is great.

[@chopperdeath]

I agree, good is good.

[@BreadandFaxes]

@@mneugent7658 yeah this is important to know. If you ignore the made in America stigma, the guitars are mostly the same.

[@smelltheglove2038]

@@BreadandFaxes I’m not a “made in USA” purist, but I like to try. The guitars and gear made in Korea, Japan, Mexico, Indonesia, I have absolutely no problem playing. I just refuse to buy a guitar made in China. I don’t care what the price is for what specs. Makes no difference to me.

[@BreadandFaxes]

@@smelltheglove2038 luckily there are tons of other countries that build guitars so you don't have to. But I find it that you dispelled the elitist fender fan to pick up the xenophobe card instead.

[@terrancefields4414]

Thank you for this. I am 70 and started working in music stores since 1972. Bottom line I can bench out anything that assimilates a strat and have playing as well as anything else. Musician's mostly listen with their eyes.

[@Tonetwisters]

I am 75 and was working in my brother's music store in 1972! Had been playing a Stratocaster since Christmas of 1963, pretty much, when I got a 1954 Stratocaster from my dad (it was quite worn out, trust me!). Most production guitars CAN be improved in the right tech's hands, it's just that the better ones will age and settle in and become an investment. My feeling is, keep the investment at home and play-out the value axes!

[@pharmerdavid1432]

Not true, some guitars resonate better than others, some guitars play better than others, some guitars sound better than others of the same model. Maybe you can make them "play" good, but that doesn't equate to making them as good of a guitar on the whole.

[@mountaineer7435]

​@@pharmerdavid1432 what's true is your delusions! Lol!

[@bluwng]

The root of the problem isn’t the evil empire it is the consumer. It is supply and demand and instead of people telling Fender to pound sand they for it instead. If they are stupid enough to pay why not sell it to them. Same for phones and cars, people are just so lustful and ego centric that is why porn and entertainment is thriving.

[@thiravitphinyoyang1254]

very great video, that diminishing return comparison so awesome. What would you recommend between 2nd hand american standard (about 2012 that include fat 50's pickup) and 1st hand japanese hybrid ii which are the same price together ? (i'm from thailand glad that you film that music concept guitar shop in siam 😊. sorry if my english not that perfect)

[@reaprendendoguitarra]

Holy crap! What a great video! Definitely the BEST video about this subject that I found on KZbin. Thanks man! You rock!

[@stopthink9000]

I can't speak for every model but the HSS Squier Affinity flame maple top I bought last year is a stunning example of low price high quality. Beautiful neck and frets, chromed hardware, beautiful finish. Sounds amazing.

[@abdabtele]

They are subcontracted to Cort guitars. They are great craftsman.

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

I also have a HSS squire, a 7 string Stagemaster superstrat

[@senseiruss]

I have the same model - it's a very solid, fun guitar to play. And it looks fantastic! Bought it new in 2021 for $299, and have played it often in the last couple of years. Holds its own with my other much more expensive guitars, even Gibsons.

[@marcusstrymon693]

I got myself a handbuilt strat from a local luthier to exactly my taste with medium relic on a nitro finish, handwound boutique pickups and flamed maple neck for 2400 Euros when I was 18 8 years ago (worked 2 summers in student jobs for that monster). The best purchase of my freaking life. Luthier was very nice tho, he knew he would make a kid happy so i got it quite a bit cheaper.

[@mototakahe836]

Thoroughly enjoyed the video, but dare I ask what amp you are using to demonstrate these guitars please?

[@Zoevandyne]

Wonderful video. Very good job man. You were spitting some truths here...

[@andrewg1016]

Great video Jules. Really comprehensive analysis and breakdown. I'd suspect there would be a multiplying effect on the 150 'extra effort' component due to the higher cost of labour on the Made in America Strat vs the Mexican made Strat, which would inflate the real 'effort' cost closer to the 500 shortfall. It might be a fraction less than that, and the remainder taken as profit.

[@emmick82]

I have owned about 12 guitars in the 20 years I’ve been playing guitar. Bought a silvertone starter kit for around $99, knowing the quality would be trash, but planned to upgrade once I had learned the basics and got “serious.” I don’t think investing a small amount before you really know if you’ll really pursue the hobby is a bad idea at all. But up until a few years ago, I always followed the ideas like outlined in this video: this thing is way cheaper than the thing I really want and I’d rather pay less. But when you follow this line of thinking you wind up buying a compromise every single time thinking it will be “almost as good” and although it might give you a variety of instruments to play, it will never satisfy the urge, the thought that maybe buying one more thing will finally scratch the itch I’ve had to play my “grail” guitar. But it’s always a very short turnaround before the new thing is just as unsatisfying as everything I’ve always had. And it’s on to the next one. Finally, FINALLY, I got to own a real American Strat (your grail my vary) and I haven’t once had the urge to upgrade again. The intangibles of actually obtaining what you TRULY want should not be dissuaded by a “value for money” proposition, in my opinion. Over time I have spent thousands of dollars chasing compromises when I should have just stayed true to my own desires and saved up for the top of what I could afford. I finally feel like I need to be better to be worthy of my guitar, rather than the inverse. I could have saved thousands by sticking to my guns and getting the best instead of chasing the next best thing for so many years.

[@overnightguitarist5063]

I like chasing tones.so I collect guitars, knowing the next might and probably won't be better than the last guitar I collected.but as long as your staying within your means.and content with your playing.i think the sky is the limit on purchasing different guitars. If I find that guitar that fits my hands like a glove.and don't want to chase anymore.a big part of me will die. For me,there is more to just finding that LAST guitar I'll ever need.. it's the excitement of always trying new things. Variety is the spice of life!

[@phoenixsound]

Is want you TRULY want just a symptom of the all the hype?

[@bobbyb7127]

Well said. I'm looking at the Boss ce-2 chorus pedal total rip off at $225. But I'll spend 100 on something else the 60 on another then 120 on another...j u st chasing that boss pedal. So I haven't bought anything yet. But you are spot on. Years ago I bought the Delta Gr e at White table saw for 1600 thing I was worth it but my 400 dollar sears craftsman table saw cranked out alot of projects, and I have a $1400 1911 where i could have been happy with $600 one. Sometimes you spend a lot extra for what you think is quality but really you just got ripped off. So idk. Lol

[@martin42mm]

@@bobbyb7127 Funny, I bought an American Strat with Custom Shop pickups, and although I love the pickups, the guitar does little for me when it comes to actually playing it. It is very heavy, and the neck is too thick. Today I was playing my cheapo 'Tenson' Stratolike, that I fitted with vintage metal-bottomed ceramic pickups ( not a clue what from) and a built-in Roland GK-3 pickup and electronics that control my Boss GP-10 when I want to use it. Plays WAY better than the American Strat-for me, anyway. May end up putting the Custom Shop pickups in one of my other guitars-probably a Fender Player-and sell it on. So my ambitions now have a downward curve....

[@martin42mm]

@@bobbyb7127 Know what you mean about pedals-now that I can relate to rather than chasing guitars that can always be altered/adjusted to suit playing-wise and sonically. But I've had dozens of multi-effects units, and finally found my holy grail, the Boss ME-80. No complicated menus to dive into, just plain knobs to twiddle to get exactly what I want. So now I need to find another itch to scratch......

[@EDGARDOUX1701]

Great vid!! Very informative..why nobody reviews Squier California Strat made in China/Indonesia??

[@jeffe6467]

Jules your Videos rock! I'm an old dude drummer finally getting around to learning guitar. Why did I wait so long? Fender recently ran a special on the Classic Vibe 50s Strat for the price of the Affinity. I'm extremely happy with it. I'm hope they do the same with the CV Tele. I also snagged a close to perfect 80s Japan Jazz Bass off of Craigslist $420 US. Beginners Luck since I have no Idea what I'm buying. Also picked up a 65 Fender Princeton Tweed. Now I just need to learn to play. I have learned so much from your videos. Keep up the great work!

[@perrym10161]

For the first Squier Strat, going from $149 to $199 is a 33% increase, not 25%.

[@jameswood3977]

Nice one, whilst I didn’t do the maths I had noticed his presentation wasn’t truly accurate and extremely one sided

[@theoperator9474]

WE'LL you're wrong too cuz it's actually 74.87%.and that difference is 25.13% you were close but if you're gonna be technical with the guy at least be completely accurate. I mean if I'm going to throw you under the bus I'm going to make sure I vase that on 100% not just mangle your legs so to speak but I wouldn't do that you've got a decent analytical brain and there's a shortage of that in the world today and I'm glad meet your aquaintence.

[@joeking433]

But going down from $199 to $149 is a 25% decrease. Huh?

[@perrym10161]

@@joeking433 yes. That is how it works.

[@mboyer68]

It's 28%. You use the amount increase divided by the average of the two, so. 49/174=0.28.

[@nizodizo9549]

I own a Fender Player Stratocaster and Fender Ultra Stratocaster. Both are nice guitars but the Ultra is more comfortable and came with a very good set up plus the noiseless pick ups. The Ultra cost more than double but I got what I paid for.

[@yhuide7521]

Awesome video! I like the American Pro and also Squier expensive version, when you plug it in same AMP (don't too cheap for the AMP :), the differences are really not that big.

[@blubear35]

I got over myself and watched the entire video, "so" allergy notwithstanding. The content and the presentation is very good. 👍👍

[@landofahhs_1]

For my money the Mexican Fender has the value, quality and sound. I find myself playing my Mexican Deluxe Strat twice as much as my old '69 American Strat (that I've owned since '74)...something I wouldn't have believed until it happened to me.

[@waltzguy14151]

100%

[@TUUK2006]

Anyone who says they can tell the difference between a Mexican and US standard blindfolded is either lucky or lying. There's practically zero difference and any hardware that might make a difference can be swapped out. There's no reason to buy the US models.

[@raysmusic49]

Yep..MIM is my fave

[@joeking433]

I've never seen a MIM Fender that was even half as good as an American one.

[@EHou01]

Squier CV is DEFINITELY worth double an Affinity. Full thickness body, Tone Rider pickups, and far better build. It's MORE than double the Affinity.

[@jonm3462]

The Squier CV guitars are a wonderful bang for the buck and best guitar under 450$. But recently bought a 2021 Fender Strat Player Series Strat for 500$ brand new at a local Guitar Center and that was the best deal I have seen in a while because those guitars list for 850-900$ (which at that price is a rip-off). Squier Classic Vibe and Player Series are both awesome. The Player Series have very hot pickups good for distortion and CV pickups mostly good for playing clean and jazz tones and lack a good tone when distorted.

[@geoffreycarter3981]

Yes, I would definitely say that the difference between the "standard" level Mexican Strat and the CV is marginal, but you're mostly paying for the Fender name. In terms of playability, CV is better value, but I would rather pay the, honestly marginal, extra money to get a Mexican made Fender as that's something I'd be more inclined to keep for my whole life than a Squier that was made in China, no matter how good. You know, a few hundred dollars more is worth it for something you only have to buy once really.

[@accentontheoff]

Great video thanks. I have an Indonesia made Fender Squier Strat that has been warping at will more or less from the time I bought it. The action simply refuses to stay stable. Basis my understanding, the guitar seemed perfectly fine when I was buying it. My question is, how would you advise I check for such an issue at the time of making my next Fender Strat guitar purchase.

[@terrymiller111]

You made all of those guitars sing, young man. Great video.

[@holdenwait]

Am pro II for $1250 "used" with new locking tuners and a Jr humbucker tucked in at bridge was the best decision I ever made when it comes to guitar purchases. The thing plays and sounds like a dream. Especially after seeing the recent price hikes too

[@robertw1871]

That’s a deal for sure, not sure why people feel the need to compare them to the player and beginner level stuff… the Pro 2 is the best guitar Fender has ever made… everything they make is good for the money, but the pro 2 is a special guitar, feels like a vintage 60s strat and oh that tone… it’s just amazing, I paid full price for mine and I’m still more than thrilled, so I’m sure your happy….

[@rexrathtar3893]

The MIM guitars seeming to be rising in price quicker than anything else. The Vinteras are now knocking on the door of what an American Performer cost last year. In fact, I've seen s few second hand American Pros at the same price as a new Vintera recently. Great value for the USA built in such a case.

[@therideneverends1697]

Thats the thing, people really seem to leave the used market out of the discussion,. some of the USA models can be had pretty easilly for 500 under MSRP just because it sat in a bedroom for a bit

[@infraaa_]

Exactly. I just bought (literally arriving any minute) an American pro for $1200 and really happy with the decision to finally get a fender. It looks brand new and apparently has one owner that had bought it and returned it within 7 days

[@bodge6886]

Best strat style guitar I ever had was the Pacifica, put that through a modern modelling amp and you won’t know the difference between Fender or copy.

[@jadonx]

I have a Pacifica, an 80s customized Hohner strat with Kinmans and a hot rail in ths bridge but my usa proffessional strat blows them out the water.

[@SxSxG666]

Because minus and minus is plus?

[@smelltheglove2038]

No, you will know the difference. I can tell the difference between my digital pedals and my analog ones, it’s quite obvious really. I can do the same with “modeling” amps as well. I’ve heard good things about the Pacifica, and Yamaha makes decent products, I cannot do the modeling amp though. I will never lie to myself and pretend they sound just as good. They most definitely do not.

[@SxSxG666]

@@smelltheglove2038 Even if modeling amps kinda sound like the real thing they certainly don't feel like the real thing for the player. It's just an ever repeated popular opinion that they are as good as a tube amp much like the wood of a guitar doesn't matter. Let em have their illusions :) Don't remember an impressive band playing cheep guitars and overpriced modeling amps I found any good but hey who knows...

[@A_Noid]

Pacificas are fine guitars, but come on, not saying it’s worth it, but an American Professional Strat feels way better. Sound is always subjective though, you may well prefer the Pacifica on this front of course. (Note: I had a pacifica as my first electric. Again, I think they’re fine, and the best at their price point)

[@sevenswordsx7]

Excellent video! Many aspects to consider when comparing guitars. I've noticed some excellent guitar players playing Squire and Epiphone guitars on stage. My point being, a good guitar player can make ANY guitar sound great. The saying,"Tone is in the fingers" is TRUE!

[@willgeo2215]

I have a MIM Strat blacktop series with HH setup. Great guitar. The only mod I made was upgrading the tuning keys so it would stay in tune longer.

[@KX5Kat]

60% of a guitar’s value, to me, is how it feels in my hands, and this can be highly subjective. To someone else my $4000 Suhr is horribly overpriced, but to me no guitar will ever feel as good to play and hold. I have a 2012 USA HSS strat and I can’t see any reason to get another. I added locking tuners and that’s it.

[@MrMaynardWR]

Scott Henderson only plays the Suhr

[@PhoenixGuitars]

Here here. Sound tests don’t illuminate bad frets, fret sprout, poor fit and finish, and other QC issues. Sure they look alike and you can get them to sound similar but a quality instrument is appreciated and keeps you coming back and inspired to play.

[@philjones8693]

I have a 3 yr old Player strat to which I applied the upgrades you mentioned - locking tuners, nicer pickups, saddles. Also had some fretwork done. Hard to imagine a made in USA strat being much better now.

[@vancesnyder2426]

I had the V-Mod (Pro 2 Strat) pickups put in my MIM Strat. I got a good deal as the owner never used them. I regret that I lacked the skill to put them in, as I believe I was overcharged but cannot say for sure. Honestly I play at home and I do not hear a difference. I love the neck and I put on Fender locking tuners and upgraded a bit of the electronics. I had a proper set-up done as well. The color I have is a unique blue. I may have overdid the modding but it is basically a Professional 11 Strat.

[@carlitobrigante330]

True. Ideally, US-made strats shouldn't require any 'upgrades' of the type mentioned. I think there is an implicit expectation that cheaper, foreign-made strats will be subject to immediate modification by the owner, whereas US-made guitars should already be of high-quality in stock condition.

[@user-rl8kr1uj6c]

I have a recent MIM Player Tele that I really enjoy and apart from a set up and locking tuners it is as it came from the factory and will most likely stay that way. I also have Squire Bullet Mustang that I bought new for peanuts and it has been fun to mess around with- researching and buying upgrade components that are cost effective and highly rated online. Also doing my own fret work and set up- things I probably wouldn't mess with on a more expensive instrument- to me that's the joy of a Squire!

[@ToadLick]

Picked up a used MIM player series (in blue like in the vid) Upgraded tuners, pick-ups, set-up by myself, and love the guitar. Its a keeper! Dig 9.5 strings on it, give it a shot if your torn between 9's and 10's.

[@raygranvold5646]

+1 on the player series strat. I have one in classic brown burst and in my opinion it’s about as classic a strat you can get new these days without spending a fortune. Sounds great, feels great and full of classic clean and distorted sounds. I feel no need to pay double for a pro strat or a custom shop. Great value

[@abdabtele]

I have toured two Vintage Modified Thinline Tele's for over six years. They were better quality than my 90's Mexican Models. They have held up to touring quite well and haven't let me down once. Also, if they get damaged or stolen on tour, I'm not losing over 1K £ for my rare and limited edition models. Perfect for outdoor and festival gigs. Squier Indonesia is Cort. Cort makes great instruments.

[@mybluesguitar]

Really great video. Subbed! I have a Chinese CV '50s Strat, a CV '60s Precision Bass, a Hybrid '60's Custom Tele + '50s Strat neck and have just bought a s/h 2019 Jimmy Page Mirror Tele. They are all excellent instruments. The quality on the CV's is remarkable. As you say, they do keep the price down through not only lower labour costs but also with cheaper components. But as you also said, that can be addressed at a reasonable cost. I upgraded the trem block in the Strat from the thin, tin-pot unit to a thicker, heavier, USA-made machined block. Tuners aren't the best quality, but they work OK and hold firm enough. The overall quality of the JP Tele is totally fabulous, but that's to be expected. The CV's offer tremendous value for money and I'd happily buy another one.

[@JohannesLabusch]

I totally agree about the Squier Classic Vibe series. One little additional recommendation: If you're going to order one online, get it from a place that gives you a choice between a few different copies, and lists the weight! I talked my friend into buying a Classic Vibe Tele, and it was a bit on the heavy side. Other than that, it was great and he loves it.

[@martin42mm]

Loved the Classic Vibes I've owned, but never warmed to the pickups which I've always changed. But for playability, they felt great.

[@mjbakedbeans]

I’m a new guitar player. Been playing for almost 2 years. Started out with the squier and bought the Mexican later on. Initially I thought they were the same but only had been playing for a year. After almost 2 years I can tell a difference in the 2 guitars in the way they feel and play. Not to say which one is better but they’re just different in their own aspects.

[@highlights5397]

I've had good luck with Mexi strats. I can tell you this after having played for 45 years that many of the old sought-after classic strats (I'm talking here about collector strats) aren't worth it unless you are buying them as an investment vehicle. In fact, many of the newer models are actually better. I know because I've owned several 60's and 70's models. In any given mfg year, you can grab 3 or 4 strats and they will all sound and feel ever so slightly different. That's why I laugh when I hear people say that Pre-CBS strats are the best.

[@pharmerdavid1432]

Most "vintage" guitars are NOT great instruments, only a few of them are, that according to Tom Bukavic who used to have a store selling them, and has played literally hundreds of 1950's and 1960's strats and telecasters. Just like with new guitars, out of 10 a couple will be great, a few good, and a couple will be less than good.

[@Hdsndrth]

Awesome video! This kind of content with Gibson and Epiphone would be great

[@joepaskowski9091]

Great Video that I wish I saw a couple years ago. I’m a relatively new guitarist that really started during COVID lockdown. I sprung for a player series strat as a combo birthday/Christmas gift to myself. I like it a lot but then decided to downgrade to a squier billet tele. Gotta say that the tele feels more natural and less intimidating. While my fender player series gathers dust and waits for me to become a better player, I’m having a ball putting my squier tele through its paces.

[@Mark-om3cl]

I bought a squire strat about 20 years ago for £140 then upgraded switches and pots and put some David Gilmour pickups in. So my guitar ended up costing around £420. And it sounds amazing. Not when I’m playing it though.

[@fruitykrueger]

Lol

[@Iseeyou317]

Always custom 👍 means its worth bout a 1000 now

[@davidburns9219]

I'm a hobby guitarist, who doesn't gig or anything. I just like the sound of a strat when playing, blues and blues/rock. For me, the Squier CV60's strat was a great price at £350, and has a great finish and sounds amazing for the price. It has the best neck finish I have ever played on a guitar. Value for money.

[@danielcalvert2700]

My first ever electric guitar came from the Squier bundle (comes with a Squier Frontman 10 watt amp), and it has done me quite well for the 3 years i've had it (the guitar, NOT the amp). In my opinion, the pickups are kinda weak, and could definitely be a bit louder (I personally haven't done it, but Guitar Center I think offers a $50 USD service that upgrades the single coils to Fender noiseless pickups).

[@neilquiros9705]

Excelente! 👍. Hope not to regret exchanging My Korean and Malasian sunburst Squier Strats for an Ephiphone SG bass and its 25 watt Crate amp since Ive become a bassist. I has some persistant issues with the first one anyways

[@DrOcelot667]

First, thank you. Awesome job. I own the exact blue Mexican strat that you demo here. Bought it early in the pandemic (November 2020) as it was my first fender, first time buying my own electric guitar (I received my older Les Paul as a gift), and I had a ton of time on my hands. Almost 2 years in with it, it's awesome. I do need to adjust the tremolo to my preferences but it sounds great. I always am looking at other guitars because yes, there are nicer ones out there but I cannot complain at all with Mexican Strat. It was on sale from a shop on Reverb, well before the damn inflation drove the prices even higher. At the end of the day, it's what you enjoy playing. I could see enjoying almost any guitar you displayed on this video. But so glad to know you think the player series is a good buy for the money!

[@Juno58]

I've sold my Squier CV 60s and buyed a Fender Player HSS, and i don't regret. The Squier Classic Vibe really was a good guitar, but the Player feels and sounds better and came out of the box with a setup suitable for me. I looove my Player Strat, it's my most played guitar, second is an Ibanez Artist.

[@tilenjk02]

I am planning to buy Player HSS. Did you buy maple or rose wood neck? Also, did you buy it a local guitar store or on Fender website?

[@waywardsoul4918]

@@tilenjk02 the maple has more even tone throughout and smoother for bends.

[@whoozworldizthis4221]

@marko I've got a USA and a MIM, and I play the MIM as much if not more than the USA it just plays and sounds awesome So that is a stupid comment by you.

[@whoozworldizthis4221]

@@tilenjk02 I got a maple board thr HSS player. Go for it dude, I tried a few at the guitar store and one just vibes with me

[@nitroxylictv]

I remember when the Player series was affordable at $649. They now cost $899 and most working musicians cant afford them anymore. They have nothing to justify the price hike in terms of quality and features.

[@carlitobrigante330]

Good point. The Player series starts at $999 CAD here in Canada, and goes up from there to approx. $1,300 CAD. They are good guitars, but no longer affordable to the beginner or novice player. (That said, they're being used more and more by experienced players and working professionals.)

[@joeking433]

Yeah, I think the MIM Fender guitars are not worth anywhere near the price they're charging. I'd go with a Classic Vibe or even an Affinity Squier if you're looking to get your money's worth!

[@arasanhu7993]

Like 2 years ago i bought a player in 650, didnt knew that the price exploded like that

[@joeking433]

@@arasanhu7993 Yeah, it's ridiculous.

[@kimoandrews5802]

I remember when Hershey Bars cost a nickel. I also remember when I didn't have to get up 15 times a night to take a leak... ah memories.

[@jamiebradbury1319]

Love the video man. Just a quick thing to mention in terms of differences between the player and the pro or any US made Fender is that pretty much all of the mexicans come with pau fera (however you spell it) rather than rosewood fretboards. Due to the ban a few years ago rosewood is a much more expensive wood to place on a guitar neck. Obviously on the maple necked instruments this has no bearing but on the "dark wood" instruments it does make a world of difference. This certainly doesnt justify the price jump but its something worth mentioning in terms of value as it is a more expensive timber. IMO the Japanese stuff tends to be the best value as well as the US performer strat (usually priced around a grand) you get everything you want from a Fender without the fancy electronics of the S1 switch and the hard case that drives the prices up. Again cool video just some thoughts.

[@highridgegraphics2816]

Great review

[@philipmumford7871]

I feel fully vindicated in an impulse buy of a "second hand" MIM player strat - guy had bought it but really wanted a silver sky SE but none were in stock. So he bought this player and never played it as it wasn't what he wanted! (He bought the silver sky shortly after). It's like new AND came with a gig bag - and it's the limited edition fiesta red with the painted headstock. Checked the serial and it was made in sept 2021 (may 2022 at the time of writing) so it's virtually new. Still had some of the peel off plastic film on it!!! 🤪. £375. 😁😁😁😁

[@leeharris5135]

Nice one! I got a great deal on a Player Series Strat too. We have Cash Converters here in the Canary Islands and I got a mint 2018 model with an €80 gig bag for €300 (£255). I put official Fender locking tuners, black pickguard and roller string tree and I’ve still only spent €450 (£382) all in. I love this guitar 😍

[@XK49]

Obviously you feel vindicated. That was a good deal. Thanks for finding an excuse to be a douche about it and show off how savvy you are.

[@codyreynolds6333]

Il give ya 400 for it lol

[@philipmumford7871]

@@codyreynolds6333 hands off!!! 😁

[@frankrizzo5710]

Sweet!

[@Wichitan]

For years, my main player was a MIM Squier Strat that I purchased out of a music shop in Hawaii 30+ years ago. I used to tell folks that it was my $200 guitar with $2000 worth of mods (which was more or less accurate, if you count the three re-frets).

[@grahamzebedee5525]

Thank you, great video, will look out for areas you pointed out when I purchase mine.

[@aprilkurtz1589]

I have a Squire Paranormal series Baritone, and a Squire 70's P-bass. They're both excellent guitars.

[@dw7704]

In addition to sound, and more than the sound, I value the feel of the guitar. Pickups can be swapped, hardware can be upgraded, setups can be done to improve playability, but the feel is the feel. Of course price matters, and I have played cheap guitars with a great feel and expensive guitars with bad feel So balancing things out and quality matters And definitely the questions asked in the video on value are good to ask, and one person will answer differently than another

[@philipmumford7871]

I have an 80s squier strat (think its Korean?) and the neck on it is lovely with rolled edges. Electricals were shockingly bad and pickups horrid so just dropped in a loaded scratchplate and some goto machine heads and it's a great little guitar.

[@JJ-nq3ll]

Very well video put together. That been said, I'll take the Mexican Stratocaster as the best overall value and sounds great. 🎸

[@sheeehan111]

thanks for this video is very interesting!! but from my point of view , for a real sound comparison you should have tested the three strats with the same pickguard and I mean same electronics, same potentiometers obviously same pickups. But I can also understand an approach to this comparison as you have done so strait from the shop!

[@geoffkennelly3830]

Hi Jules thanks for the break down on the Fender guitars . I have an American 1987 Strat and Tele and then purchased a 1993 a Mexican Tele and was so impressed I purchased a Strat both sounding slightly different to the American guitars [belter] in my opinion so I sold both my American Fenders and to this day still have my much loved Mexican guitars.😎

[@douglasfrantzen3011]

One factor that should be looked at, is how much will the guitar appreciate in value. The American made guitars increase in value the most, it seems. For instance, I bought a used Fender 72 custom telecaster back in the late '70s for $200 and sold it a few years later for the same. If I still had it, it would be worth $4,000-$5,000. I eventually bought another (because nostalgia), this time an American vintage '72 custom tele about 12 years ago, it's gone up in value by $1,000. I bought a Gibson Explorer in natural (2011 manufactured) for $1,000 and it has doubled in value. In my opinion, the American guitar models are usually a good investment. It doesn't seem to me that the Mexican or Asian models go up in value this much, at least just in my experience (which is limited), I'm sure a guitar sales professional would know for sure.

[@outsiderdf]

depends on the condition

[@RKDriver]

I've had a US made Peavey Predator strat that I paid $110 (new) back in the early 2000's. I've refinished, sanded and painted it multiple times. Changed out the pickups and pots several times and aged the metals to give it a nicer seasoned look. After learning how to take them apart and rebuild them, I also fine-tuned my setup work. This strat is a premium feeling guitar with a custom paint job. It's a one of a kind. This is what I like about them. Buy a cheap one and just fiddle with it until you get what you want. They're so easy to take apart, customize and repair plus you learn so much without worrying about destroying a high end factory instrument.

[@miggsy21ace93]

I still have mine. It still shreds

[@tideslider664]

Love peavy stuff I have some ol e 1970s peavy tube amps

[@jmdoza]

Great job!!!

[@Bajosextomario23]

This was a great video. I appreciate the research and information. I wish you could do one for gretsch comparing the streamliner, electromatic, and higher end models.

[@daveshamir729]

Great analysis, but interesting that you glossed over the American Performer series. I own an American Performer Telecaster, which I'm quite happy with. I think this series actually hits the sweet spot between the American Professional and the Vintera line, in terms of value for money with that additional Made in the USA branded element thrown in.

[@linsayspence7070]

Yes , I agree! I bought a 2 year old performer Telecaster for £650 with single coils . I also have a 2013 US Standard Telecaster, however, I just play the performer all the time it feels and plays better than the Standard, in fact it's the best Telecaster I've played 👍

[@williamphillips24]

I tried out the Performer and Player when I was looking for my strat, and I didn't think the extra AUD$800 was justified. Bent steel saddles, 6 screw vintage bridge, and still no locking tuners or any sort of contoured heel... no thanks. I went with a Player and upgraded that with locking tuners, solid saddles, and Lace sensors, and still ended up ahead price wise. It was also plek'd free at the shop before they shipped it out. Disclaimer - I have some sort of Indo Squier - it's not an Affinity or Bullet, no idea what it is - locking tuners dimarzios), a 2021 MIM Player as per above, and an 89 USA Strat Plus. There's not a lot between the Player and Plus tbh, but there's also 33 years between them. Probably the best price/feature ratio belongs to the Player Plus line. You get the modern features at a decent price.

[@Rikalonius]

I have an American performer Tele as well, and I think it's a fantastic guitar.

[@rockrollresale2668]

Used Mexican Strat with the lower output pickups are great Blues Rock guitars. I'm using a dumpster found Fender Starcaster strat that plays like a dream. Looks cheap but sounds great. Q.C. is hit and miss. You really got to test them. I tend to go for Japanese copies of any type.

[@marcusmaynard1526]

sameeee, I have a 91 mexican strat that I put lollars in. I wouldnt trade that guitar for the world.

[@marceli155]

Mexican is the best guitars !!!!!!!!!!!! price is for normal people no for milionare only

[@lukebeignet]

My first and main guitar is a player series MIM strat plus top - got it for about $620 on sale. Just bought my second guitar - a squier classic vibe 50s strat on sale for $275. Love the player strat and glad I was able to pick up the CV for such a great price - with a proper set up I should have two excellent strats for very good prices!

[@joeking433]

$620 is about what a MIM Fender should cost, not $900!

[@neilwarden]

Great info and lovely playing...I own a real '61 and a Classic Vibe

[@r.michaelchavez5561]

I got a Player in 2018 when they first came out. I put in some Eric Johnson pickups, a 50's vintage wiring harness, and some graph tech saddles in the bridge. Sounds and plays better than any USA I've played off the rack. If I was given the cost of a USA Strat today I'd buy a Player and have $500+ left over for a couple sweet pedals.

[@eutychuspumpkinbomb4412]

You wouldn’t have a rolled fretboard or sculpted neck heel tho.

[@r.michaelchavez5561]

Don't need the rolled fretboard my neck plays like butter. I have long fingers so the heel doesn't bother me at all one way or the other.

[@feldbox]

Gray video , thanks man!!!

[@1114gabby]

Good analysis. I have an American strat, MIM strat and a CV strat. They are all nice. Not much difference in my MIM and the American, although I have done some upgrades on it. I like all three. Honestly you can sound just as good on a CV strat as the other two. If I had to have one ax I would get the MIM...they are quite good, but the CV is no slouch.

[@papawx3]

I just scored a G&L Legacy USA in mint used condition, still with all the case candy for $700USD. True, not a Fender, but thats why I bought it. The quality of this guitar is head and shoulders above ANY regular production Fender, it is on par with a custom shop guitar. It also has a PTB tone circuit that no Fender Strat comes with {read up on the PTB}.

[@fritzherrmann762]

Fantastic axe.

[@zachcharo]

dude that's a great buy

[@zachcharo]

I think those are made in the same fullerton factory as the pre-CBS fenders

[@timothyyy1259]

Also a G&L owner here. They are a small shop, so their instruments are essentially custom. They're awesome

[@Quickb3n]

Recently picked up a 1984 Japanese squire bullet strat. The one with the tele neck. Very unique looking guitar and it sounds like an absolute beast.

[@Stratmanable]

"Squier". Says so right on the headstock.

[@Burnsey1991]

I'll be honest, I pulled the trigger on a Player plus Hss Strat and it honestly feels so much better than anything below it but feels the same due to its rolled neck as any American pro! also super versatile due to its Hss set up

[@StickMan...77]

Great video, thank you.

[@CitAllHearItAll]

For me it’s the neck. As a former guitar teacher, I’ve seen tons of squires. They are incredible value. But the bad is that I’d have to do neck adjustments much more often on the squires. Some of the necks would twist with time, too. And I can’t fix that. I’m not a Fender guy, but did pick up a 1998 American. The neck is incredibly stable. I don’t have central air. I live in the the Midwest, so all seasons. The guitar is absolutely worth it. Bought it for $750.

[@Rrgr5]

Yep, you're right, my gig guitar was a Squier bullet, the reason was it was cheap enough to play in any pub or show house I found here, I wouldn't use a fender for that, and when you got a better neck and better hardware, I can say without a doubt that they become practically the same, for me, is cheaper to just make a custom with a luthier rather than drop that amount of money with parts changing, since a nice enough body for your Strat or tele is way cheaper than a Squire to mod.

[@zodi9783]

I feel like it's preference when it all comes down to it. I personally wouldn't play a Squire if I could avoid it simply because all the ones I have checked out, have really unfinished feeling necks and don't really feel right in my hands. But that can be said about guitars at different price points from a myriad of brands. For this reason, I believe it's important to try before you buy at least for the first guitar of a brand's production year, model, etc. Myself, I tried a bunch of different stuff before falling in love with LTDs which have high quality stuff even at lower price points.

[@JamesBrown-js3lm]

I’ve tweaked my squire with a few select upgrades and it is always my go to when I play an electric. Absolutely a player’s dream.

[@dreys6tube]

Nice video! Whats the light blue and white guitar at 15:47 please?

[@MinPhase]

One series you missed here is the Performer series. It's between Player and Professional II in terms of price. I own a Performer Tele and it's a little less than twice the price of Player, but is totally worth it. I spent hours with both guitars in multiple stores and there's no comparing the two in terms of playability. Performer is way better. Professional, on the other hand, wasn't that superior to the Performer imo, so I would probably say it's not worth the extra money

[@sgtpilko5428]

Same experience for me. The performer is an excellent guitar and much superior to the player series.

[@carlosmorenorodriguez2472]

I actually feel That's the model that should be compared to the American Standard, with the professional being more like the Deluxe and such...

[@shadwelthames9416]

My Player Strat, that I bought new a year ago, had a spring missing from one of the pickup mounts! Having said that, it's a lovely guitar and though I've only been playing a year I can tell it has a much richer sound than my Affinity. No complaints about the Affinity which I bought second hand for £75.

[@legacyShredder1]

Think about that though; for 75 you can find a serious playing instrument. That's some serious shit. When I was a kid 75 bucks didn't get you the piece of garbage guitar on the supermarket shelf.

[@Augrills]

Wow, you had to spend 4 bucks to fix it. Might as well give it away. I’ll take it

[@curtolmscheid1661]

Fantastic review and comparison. Thank you.

[@markbrown7103]

Great video I bought a Sunburst fender Stratocaster American made in 1976 paid $350 for it with a hard, shelled case I have been a guitarist for several years mostly acoustics I bought a 427 midnight blue GT Graach last summer did a little adjustments and guitar is beautiful. I love it I’m thinking about buying a really nice Squier or fender, so I watched your video, I really enjoyed it. Thanks so much now I know and now I know what to look for. I give you thumbs up for this video. It’s super cool.👍🏼👍🏼😎😎🎸🎼🎶🎵😆

[@davehopping7212]

The numbers are accurate for the UK, and analogous for the US, where I am. It's a little simplistic, though, to focus only on cost.... In context of rock/pop musicians being deeply concerned with social/environmental/human rights issues, as well as creeping and blatant anti-Americanism over the whole planet-- including the parts of the American population on the dole-- the countries (except for Japan) where non-American Fender/Squiers are made tend to come in dead last on those issues. It's been said that any company following Chinese pollution/ worker safety/wage regulations anywhere in Western Europe or North America would find itself in some VERY hot water. It's also been alleged that the extremely low prices of offshore Fenders are generated at least in part through some expertly-covered up PRC governmental subsidies, also called "dumping".

[@RagggedTrouseredPhilanthropist]

He has 2 other videos in the series analysing sound and other aspects, so he doesn't just focus on cost.

[@gabiotta]

Everybody thinks that their guitar is Excalibur, and that they got a bargain when they bought it.

[@user-rs8sp7wh6b]

I bought an American Ultra Jazz Bass last year. it feels great, looks great, and most importantly, sounds great. But you can get a very similar (if not, same) sound by just upgrading your pickups.

[@TheTrollMastah]

I just like the flash coat lacquer finishes on the later American Vintage line. They really dropped the ball by discontinuing them

[@Rwtheking]

Fender has mostly disappointed me compared to their lower end guitars. One of the best guitars I’ve played was a squier Jazzmaster. I’ve also seen the prices for fender go up insanely like you’ve said. It went from 500 something bucks to 750$ for only the player series. I’m honestly a fan of the G&L legacy. I think it’s the best American made strat style guitar and depending on which you get it costs less the a fender American professional for the features they use on their custom shops with all of the necks being speced after their favorite necks for the 50’s and 60’s as well as modern shapes if you ask for them. You don’t have to pay these ridiculous prices for a good guitar. My fav guitar is probably my Danelectro and it’s my cheapest. Danelectro does hit above its weight class though with its unique tone. As long as you don’t care about Branding resale Danelectros are a pretty good option right now if you are on a budget. Rory Gallagher is known as having been a strat player but he was fond of collecting Danelectros/silvertones. He even used one on A Million Miles Away. The best guitar isn’t necessarily the most expensive but the one that speaks to you.

[@gingerbeer914]

The Squier Vintage Modified Jazzmaster was a fine guitar for €399.-

[@alexbowman7582]

I was gonna buy a Mexican Strat it looked great with gold tuners, saddle and switch hat but it didn’t have the Fender badge so I asked the guy “if it’s a Fender where’s the badge” and he replied “badges, badges, we don’t have no badges, we don’t need no badges, I don’t have to show you no stinking badges”.

[@lucaszembrzuski]

Awesome video, can You tell me what amp did You use to record guitars in this video?

[@JulesGuitar]

it’s all recorded straight into my iPad (with GarageBand).

[@lucaszembrzuski]

@@JulesGuitar amazing how sweet it sounds! (@_@)

[@javiere.gonzalez1021]

I tried a Performer vs a Player Series Strat. Not sure if it was just bias, but the Performer felt much nicer to play due to the finish on the neck. There was a discernible tone difference too. It was also much better looking imo. However, like your video says, I definitely did not see the $500 difference. I knew most of it was going to the "made in America" tax, which I was happy to pay.

[@apollomasta]

I got a Squier Affinity and upgraded all the pickups and humbucker (Seymour Duncan), changed the bridge and tuners (400 USD worth upgrades) and sounds better than my mate's US made Fenders. Total investment was 600 USD and I did all the work so I have the additional benefit of enjoying and learning how to upgrade it. I can say for sure that these Squier Affinity guitars are a good platform to do all kinds of crazy upgrades without braking the bank. Chees from Mexico

[@Mikee535]

One thing I must say is I work on guitar so I have touched many of these different Stratocaster's. I like the squires from Indonesia, I actually like a lot of guitars from Indonesia over China. The Mexican and Squires have gotten better but I find with the older ones especially a lot of The frets pop up and I have to tap them back down or better yet glue them down so they don't pop up again. So factor that into your equation. Also I have some older Squires one made in China sitting right next to me in the paint has been chipping off, the paint job is awful. So the inexpensive guitar that feels good in your hands today might not be so great tomorrow. I have worked on some American Stratocaster's and telecasters from the 70s and have no never come across a popped up fret. The pick ups in these non-American guitars are way better than they used to be so if you're going to buy an older MIM or Squire Think about that. You're definitely going to have to swap the pick ups where the modern Mexican Stratocaster's pick ups are pretty decent. Great video thanks for posting.

[@TheRealKingVitaman]

"Squier*

[@davisworth5114]

Great work. I have found that there are but two qualities for a good guitar, and they are playability and sound. I wish that my beautiful Strat. and Telly-type guitars were also the best players, but sadly that isn't so. My favorite Strat. type guitar is a 90s issue Peavey Predator that I bought twelve years ago for $80, and a Squier Thinline Telly with Duncan Design p/ups that I bought for $275 eight years ago. I agree, the Squier Classic Vibe guitars are the best bang for the buck, I bought a used 2014 Fiesta Red Strat w/ maple neck, I installed locking tuners and it plays, looks, and sounds terrific. Your playing is sweet!

[@felipescherer6678]

Very good comparisons and explanations! Thanks for sharing.

[@mneugent7658]

I'll break it down to two: labor costs and vanity. I've always wondered what people from other countries (I'm American) think about the whole "Made in the USA" thing. If you're not American do you even care? That's more of a pride in America thing, I'd assume. I never ever flinch when I see made in Japan or Korea. Mexico either. From my experience the people of those countries seem to have pride in their workmanship. A lot of this comes down to vanity. Costs more so its better. Can't have less than the best! There is NO way a Gibson Les Paul Custom with Murphy Labs aging is worth 8 grand. Yes, they put the hours in but the guitar in your hand is not 3+ times better than a Les Paul Classic with coil splitting/tapping. But its the buyer's money. Plus I can't stand fake-aging guitars. Its a poseur move.

[@honkytonkinson9787]

Good question about country of origin. I wonder if we as Americans are more brand loyal than other countries. There is prestige in owning a nice instrument and most of the nicest guitars are historically made in the US. Things are changing though

[@mneugent7658]

@@honkytonkinson9787 Oh I doubt we're more brand loyal. People are people and like the brands they like. But I'd have to imagine that "Made In USA" means more to us since we think we're the best at everything (we're not, like e.i. cars) and we probably think of it as supporting our friends and relatives with jobs.

[@brianjones8432]

Hell, Les Paul Classics aren't even worth their price anymore. You can pick up a nice single cut from Schecter or ESP for half the price, or at the very least $1000 less that's easily just as good a build, or probably better considering the inconsistencies out of Gibson lines over the last couple decades. Same with PRS. The SE line sounds just as good as the core line, the build quality is excellent, and it's 1/3rd to 1/4th the price. I was just saying in another comment that if anything Fender is the least worst offender (and don't get me wrong, they're still bad) when it comes to overpricing their USA lines.

[@mneugent7658]

@@brianjones8432 Gibson and Fender are screwed because the big uptick in guitar sales due to covid distancing gave newbies exposure to the much cheaper Chinese and Indonesian built guitars. No one is going to come into a hobby by buying the top of the line stuff. They're gonna get their toes wet with a budget guitar. The thing is the Asian made stuff is really good these days. Great? Nah, but really decent and playable stuff. The brand loyalty is going to be leaning, for the newbies, towards the decent stuff they got out of Asia. Mexican built stuff has been really good for a while. These new players aren't dreaming of ripping on a Cherry Sunburst Les Paul on stage at The Garden. They want something that looks cool and plays well enough. Hell, I have my share of expensive guitars but even I went on a crazy Harley Benton binge. They looks super cool and are amazing guitars for nearly no money. If you're a new player you're gonna see that you can get 10 (TEN!!) Harley Benton's for the price of a LP Standard. A newbie has no loyalty to Gibson and now has one to say FireFly or HB. So what does Gibson or Fender have to do to stay open? Raise their prices.

[@brianjones8432]

@@mneugent7658 Oh believe me, I know. I just bought a Schecter Solo II Blackjack over even bothering with a Gibson. It easily rivals the quality and it's $1000 less than their Les Paul Classic. Also lighter as well. Sounds great, plays great, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. Nor would I trade my Schecter Apocalypse. Both guitars in the $1500 range that rival $3500 -$4000 American made guitars in build, features, and sound. And I do own an American made core line PRS, as well as an American made Strat and a custom USA Valley Arts. But the PRS SE I have is easily the quality of the core model. Same design, same machine programing used to make it. It's essentially the exact same guitar just happens to be built in a different country. Again, for 1/3rd to 1/4th the price. I've been a professional musician for 35 years now and I have always had ZERO brand loyalty. All that matters to me is that the guitar is a workhorse. That's it. If it sounds great, plays great, and gets the job done reliably night after night for years on end, I could care less what's on the headstock.

[@BobZed]

With the focus on value for money, I'm surprised that there is no mention of buying used gear. I bought an old and only slightly used Squier SE starter kit for $60. The necks on the SE's are great. The starter kit included an amp that I then sold for $10. I then bought a loaded pickguard from a Mexican Fat Strat for $40 and dropped that in, along with a new Mexican bridge for another $40. I got a little crazy and bought some almost new Fender tuners for $35, so I basically have a Mexican/Player HSS Strat for $165. Even if you don't want to go to that much work, used is going to be cheaper.

[@shaun64vet]

Exactly. And I'd say Gibson's problem is the second hand market with 90s and early 00s Gibson's considered better all round.

[@barbmelle3136]

Used is a benefit especially when you are skilled. I built an entire guitar from parts left from customers guitars. I was needing only a body and a man wanted a natural body in his Fender instead of a tri burst, so I did not charge him labor for the swap if he let me keep the body. Free Guitars are really nice.

[@DizzyKrissi]

Well done indepth explanation. I have a Player Plus Strat and it's nearly on par with my Elite and my other US strats. I'd rather geht 2 Player Plus instead of an Ultra.

[@14rnr]

Cheers fella, I found that interesting.

[@yaakovhassoun8965]

I bought my american professional strat 6 years ago, and have used it almost every day since I bought it, far more than any other guitar I own. Probably the best investment I've ever made.

[@richardrichard5409]

As a luthier you can't go wrong with a Harley Benton, a decent set up and just as important, the often forgotten nugget....lessens. Had a few woeful Fenders across my bench, but as yet, never a bad Harley Benton....the value strings are incredibly good too. People have long forgotten Leo Fenders design brief, make it as cheaply as possible whilst being effective.....down to the nails used, the boxwood for bodies, the paint laid on, the Henry Ford of the guitar world.

[@joeking433]

I just sold a crappy Harley Benton Daphne blue DLX LP copy. They bridge was misaligned by close to an 1/8". That just instantly made me want to sell it. But the frets were terrible too, I had to level them. And it still sucked. I have a nice Firefly SG that I bought for $189, though! It is not quite on par with my Gibson SG Standard but for under $200 it's phenomenal! It's actually more "alive" than my Gibson and the B and high E string ring out better than almost any of my other dozen guitars! Funny how guitars vary so much from guitar to guitar.

[@joeking433]

The worst guitar I've ever owned was a a Harley Benton.

[@oliviergagnon2592]

Nice content and well presented. Thank you sir

[@Manuel-gh9wm]

Great tutorial and on the other guitars that I like your show I like the way you lunch but you can afford I have a 62 tally I've had it over 30 years and I love it I also have a a gretsch hollow-body and I love it too thanks for your specs on the guitars that are made in Mexico United States and China and Japan😅

[@legacyShredder1]

I've never liked Fender Strats, but I've always needed them for the sounds both live and in the studio. I've never liked the feel and playability. Then Fender came out with the American Ultra Strat, and I immediately loved the feel and sound. Sure it's not cheap, and frankly I don't care where it was made. A good guitar to me is a good guitar. It just happens to be when it comes to Strats, I really only like the new expensive one.

[@Ray-Angel]

I had a chance to try a new Ultra a few weeks ago and I agree with you about how good it feels and ease of playability. If it hadn't been a blue metal flake I probably would have bought it! I've tried 2 others since and neither were as good as the blue one.

[@legacyShredder1]

@@Ray-Angel I can set up a guitar to play it any which way I want for the type of guitar that it is, but I did buy two that happen to be in Cobra Blue due to sounding even more stellar than the other options. I actually wanted the Texas Tea (I think it's called,) and the transparent Plasma Red Burst. I adjusted the pickups attempting with failed hopes in the store to match the sounds, but the ones I ended up purchasing sounded better. For the record they all sound great. I eventually got the Ultra Tele in Texas Tea. Fantastic guitar.

[@legacyShredder1]

@@Ray-Angel Also, you're brave enough to have a blog. Suppose I can tip my hat to that. I'll give it a watch.