Monoprice Indio Classic Cali HSS | Review | Demo

In this 76th installment, Jimmy discusses and demo’s his new Monoprice Indio Cali Classic “Strat” style guitar from Monoprice. This Cali Classic is in black, with a HSS configuration, rosewood fretboard, and satin maple neck. This guitar also ships with a gig bag included in the price!

[@craigjacob3704]

I don't mind the unboxing Jimmy. I enjoy the heck out of all of your videos. Thanks buddy😁👍

[@JimmyStewart1]

Appreciate that Craig! Glad you enjoy them!! Thanks for stopping in to the channel! 👍🎸

[@bobbya8622]

Nice looking and sounding guitar, particularly for the price. You definitely know how to get the sound out of it! Thanks for this video!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for stopping in to the channel Bobby. Appreciate the kind comments!! 🎸👍

[@davidkastin4240]

Beautiful Strat and sounds good. I just recently bought the SSS Cali Classic LH, they don't have HSS LH. I'm quick to do mods and upgrade but all it needed was a set up. I'm happy with it stock. Looking forward to seeing and hearing more on this one Jimmy.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting David! I was having so much fun playing this…didn’t realize how long this video was and that was after I edited nearly a hour from it! 🤣🤣. Enjoy your SSS…fun guitars that play, sound and feel way above their pay grade! 👍😎

[@josejarkin9972]

Hey Jimmy!! great review, as always! I got one of these shipped here to costa Rica and I'm very happy with the product. Monoprice is doing great affordable stuff. Last year I got a Monoprice retro classic and I just love that one I’ve taken it to several rehearsals and a couple of concerts. I'm more than happy with the stuff we can get nowadays at an affordable price. Greetings bro!

[@JimmyStewart1]

That’s great news Jose!! Glad you are enjoying both the Cali HSS and the Retro Tele….both excellent guitars and affordably priced from Monoprice. Thanks so much for watching and commenting, it’s great to have you enjoying the channel! Keep pickin’ !! 👍🎸

[@BenDover-qb9dm]

I love these guitars man. So well made. Funny thing is I bought the blue one on sale for $95 and when it arrived it had a maple fretboard! Although I was expecting it with rosewood as advertised, I was elated because I was planning to buy a replacement for it anyway. So Monoprice saved me even more money! Kudos to Monoprice products and customer service. Love this video!!!

[@JimmyStewart1]

That’s excellent, and yes, the blue Classic Cali does come with a maple fretboard! So glad you enjoyed the video, and congrats on yours! Really appreciate your stopping in to the channel and sharing your thoughts. 👍🎸

[@dannywilliams3516]

Jimmy that guitar sounded incredible. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Either that or that is one sweet little amp you are using. LOL. And I love watching you open up those boxes I love the anticipation of seeing what's going to come out of that box. I'm just like you. I can kick myself I was going to get one of those and I ended up getting the glary instead. It's in the shop right now having a few upgrades. I got the red Telecaster. My next one will definitely be in Indio. Love the video Jimmy keep them up buddy. Have an awesome weekend. And stay cool. It's getting hot here in Arkansas.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much Danny! The guitar does sound good (and so does the amp)! I appreciate you watching and commenting. I have a bit of fun with the “unboxing” sections, and try to make them humorous. Some just want to see the review/demo and well….I do what I do based on how I am feeling at any given time. I don’t script any of my videos, so….hopefully that Glary you got gets back to you in “ready” condition! Enjoy!! Thanks again for the kind words, and appreciate you stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍

[@BankerBoy]

Hey Jimmy!..You did such a great job of showing the Indio Cali Classic that I just had to get one in the blue color with black...just received it today...I did my own KZbin review.....its always fun on new guitar day.....and its a beauty!....thanks again for the heads up on what a nice guitar it is from your review. The one I got is "mint" Thanks for the info on the best way to clean the fret board and frets. Cheers!

[@JimmyStewart1]

My pleasure man…glad you like and are enjoying it!! 👍

[@kenpullin4937]

It always makes sense. Great job Jimmy

[@JimmyStewart1]

Ha!! 🤣 That’s what I keep telling myself anyway….😎 Thanks so much for watching and commenting Ken! Appreciate the support! 🎸👍

[@reggiemurphy1523]

Just ordered the retro classic for my 9 year old who is going to the school of rock camp next month! I caught that sale! LOL Thanks Jimmy!

[@JimmyStewart1]

That’s excellent Reggie!! School Of Rock Camp!! Nice…hope he/she has a blast and enjoys that new Tele!! All the best from me!! Rock On 🤘

[@robertettinger8247]

The guitar q ones aa

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@robertettinger8247 Ummm….not sure what you mean here Robert…??

[@DigitalSubset]

This is the one to buy! I’ve had my blue hss strat for about 6 months and it shreds beautifully and very versatile

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting! I agree this guitar is quite versatile and a bargain for the $$ Sounds like you are enjoying yours, and thanks again for stopping in to the channel! 👍🎸

[@bluwng]

Did you get the deluxe model?

[@DigitalSubset]

@@bluwng No I wasn’t too into the colors for them but they should sound even better

[@Seniormeowingtons]

Picked this up in blue, Thanks for the review.

[@JimmyStewart1]

The blue is cool!! Congrats! Thanks so much for watching and commenting! 👍

[@craigjacob3704]

Thank you for your service Jimmy. I'm a Army vet myself. God bless you brother.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thank you as well!! 👍

[@craigjacob3704]

@@JimmyStewart1 ❤️

[@craigjacob3704]

Brother Jimmy I think you could make any guitar sound nice. It's really a pleasure listening to you play.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much Craig…👍🎸

[@craigjacob3704]

@@JimmyStewart1 I just looked on monoprice websight and the blue one is $99.99 go back and check it out it's HSS

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@craigjacob3704 Hmmm…it’s showing as $119 for me. Only the black at $95

[@robertclarkguitar]

That's a nice one Jimmy!!!! Happy New Years 🎉

[@JimmyStewart1]

Happy New Year Robert! Thanks so much for watching and stopping in! Much appreciated! 👍

[@robertclarkguitar]

@@JimmyStewart1 always love watching ya. Sadly so many channels get buried. I was like. Hey it's Jimmy!!!! Hahah peace.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@robertclarkguitar Thanks man…yeah us “smaller channels” have our work cut out for us. Appreciate the support! 👍

[@gilbertchartier9185]

I bought the cream telecaster and the indio cali black. thank you for your video. you are a very cool guy

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting Gilbert! Enjoy those new guitars!! Appreciate the kind comments. Thanks for stopping in to the channel, and have a look around when you get the chance! I did a review of the Retro Tele here on the channel as well! 👍🎸

[@calbrockocat8728]

Really nice guitar that Cali in black.Another excellent demo and first impressions video. 1994, eh? Dang it! Only off by 43.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much Cal B….you will find it hard IMHO to find ANTHING better at this price point. Yes, I believe you were the closest to the number without my F.I.L. actually hitting it on the head! PM me….I may just have something for you! 😎

[@rockygilliard6688]

I just got mine in the mail and it's perfect man I set the intonation and it plays Sweet

[@JimmyStewart1]

That’s outstanding Rocky!! Congrats and enjoy it man! It’s really a nice guitar, and plays/sounds way above what the price point would have you believe, that’s for sure! Thanks so much for stopping in to the channel and sharing your thoughts with us! Once again, congrats and keep pickin’!! 👍🎸

[@brokenspokes3739]

I bought that hss Cali classic mine had fret sprout and a paint run on the body below the bridge I ordered replacement tuners and nut just in case I changed the strings and set it up tuned and Intonated no problem other than new strings it's stock I called my nephew to drop off his fender hss squier made in indonesia I changed the strings and set it up to compare the Cali has a fatter body and neck great mod platform the squier sounded thinner and i prefer the feel of the Cali classics neck over the squier overall for the money right out of the box it's a steal I haven't played my SG in some time I'm having fun tinkering with the cali I'm running through a peavy vypyr 2 exploring different amps and effects next I want to order the monoprice 15 watt tube amp looks like a nice little practice amp. Thanks for the videos jimmy

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks for watching and commenting Broken Spokes! I had 1 of my Monoprice Cali Classics come in with some fret sprout, but easily taken care of. My HSS however, was quite good. I love the necks on these as well! The Monoprice 15w valve amp is a bargain…probably the best value all valve 15w combo you can get right now! If you have not already, check out my reviews and demo’s of that amp here on the channel! Again, thanks for stopping in…it’s greatly appreciated! 👍🎸

[@redelk2974]

Jimmy, Like the HSS...could be a cool addition for sure. Love your tunes. So nice, smooth

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so very much R.E…🙏 This or the OS20, depending on body style…or both!! 😎👍

[@redelk2974]

@@JimmyStewart1 Yes, that is So True! If only I truly didn't like and enjoy both body styles. Sir, I must admit you swung me over to offsets...I really like them a lot. I like Strata too... I am not of the mindset that you can only have, or play one or two guitars...I have no problem with a refined Harem (of guitars) :)

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@redelk2974 🤣🤣 You are now starting to see some of my reasoning….just finished up the “misfit offsets” video today! Have a look when you get the chance! 👍

[@garrytalley8009]

I do enjoy your videos. I know you like the white on black you said so in the video. But I am not much into that and I have changed out my knobs and pick up covers when ever I get a black pick guard for black on black. It's only about $10 for a set and sometimes you can get the handle for the whammy bar as well. I have four Indio guitars all different and they are all wonderful playing guitars. Some needed a bit of setting up but they were all good sounding and good looking. Their padded cases along with the foam bag they are in keeps them in good shape.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting Garry…that’s the beauty of these guitars, you can mod and change things up as you desire. Appreciate the kind comments and for stopping in! 👍

[@edwardkaeser2533]

Really enjoyed the new guitar noodling you do. That section was Hendrix ish then you spring Mr Joe Walsh riff was instant smile. The only finer noodling would net a 90 lb catfish up to my elbow. Learn everytime watching.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much Edward! Truly appreciate the kind words! Thanks for stopping in to the channel! Watch for the catfish! 🤣👍

[@edwardkaeser2533]

Actually thank you for stopping by. As a subscriber you show up and share with me.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@edwardkaeser2533 👍👍🎸

[@daveyork3981]

Subscribed; thanks for the heads up. Just bought one.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Excellent!! Thanks so much for watching, commenting and subscribing! I hope you enjoy your new Monoprice Indio Classic Cali once you receive it! I think you will find it much more guitar than the price point would lead you to believe! Let me know what you think, and hope to see you around the channel!! Congrats, and thanks again for stopping in to the channel! 👍🎸

[@daveyork3981]

Just received it today; that was quick!

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@daveyork3981 Excellent! Mine was delivered in 4 days and on a Sunday too! 👍

[@chasintone316]

poppin again to hear excellence bro! great job as always! what video equipment are you using? my mic on the camera is pretty bad...but video is great....i dont wanna "break the bank" but i want better audio if i can get it...

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks my friend…good to see you exploring the channel! I use a few different mikes, but mostly a Rode Videomic and a Zoom H1 for these videos..I have a couple lapels but rarely use them.

[@tjforgey7854]

I do like their gig bags,and their dust slip cover,I cotton a lot of use from them,they work well on your workbench,and don't scratch finish or cause static.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Their packaging is quite good, especially for a inexpensive guitar. Strings wrapped as well…. Thanks so much for watching and commenting…. Appreciate your stopping in! 👍🎸

[@chessrootslove9916]

I almost bought this, but went for the Helix Flamed Maple Blue Burst for a little more. It'll be here next week!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Nice! Enjoy that Helix! I wanted the black to go with the white SSS and the maple/rosewood combination. Thanks for stopping in to the channel…much appreciated! 👍

[@bluwng]

I got my eye on that. How do you like it? My only hesitation is I insist on a lightweight guitar, is it light?

[@cziprick]

I love unboxing and opening Amazon packages. It's like opening Presents!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi Curtis..thanks for watching and commenting! This came directly from Monoprice though, but still fun to unbox!! Thanks so much for stopping into the channel!! 🎸👍

[@manfredoliveras3196]

SRV vibes here! Excellent review, thanks.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi Manfred…thanks so much man! Truly appreciate your watching and commenting. Glad you enjoyed and thanks again for stopping into the channel! 🎸👍

[@manfredoliveras3196]

@@JimmyStewart1 30 year plus Bass player that just buy the blue one. Thanks for the review.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@manfredoliveras3196 My pleasure…congrats and enjoy!! 🎸👍

[@TimMarcus00]

That is an awesome sounding guitar Jimmy. I just may have to pick one up. I don't own a strat style, but my monoprice tele has been a great guitar. I've had it for 9 months now. I wish that they had an all white version, but black will do just fine. Or I could get the white cali and slap a humbucker in it. Decisions, decisions... Anyways, thank you for the review & keep up the great work!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting Tim! If you don’t own a Strat style, this would be a no brainer then, especially if you have the Tele and like it. You could certainly go with the SSS in white (like my other one) and drop a Humbucker in there if you wanted to. Both are very nice indeed! 👍🎸

[@TimMarcus00]

@@JimmyStewart1 I had a 90's strat, but quit playing like an idiot. So my ex-wife sold it without asking me. I was furious lol. I really like the tone on your HSS though. How do the middle & neck pickups on the Cali & HSS compare? I've watched both your videos on the guitars, but with KZbin's sound compression it sometimes doesn't give a true impression of the guitars sound. Thank you for all that you do!

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@TimMarcus00 As far as the middle/neck pups, I believe them to be identical. Very quiet, especially for single coils, so you can put some “snot” on them and get a nice o’drive while still retaining the “quack” inherent to the Strat sound. I think either guitar would be a great choice (probably the reason I have both now). 👍🤣 P.S. What I mean by identical, is the pups seem to be the same on either guitar, not identical pups “IN” the guitar. In the HSS Monoprice lists them as HSS - Ceramic, 5.5K (N), 5.7K (M), 8.6K (B) In the Classic Cali SSS they list SSS - Ceramic, 5.5K (N), 5.7K (M), 6.0K (B)

[@chrishudson4940]

I bought the blue and black and am loving it. Just oiled the fretboard, next is some new strangs

[@JimmyStewart1]

Whoa!! Nice, got them both, hey? I will be setting mine up here shortly…fretboard conditioning, fret polish, intonation and new 9’s…. Enjoy Chris, and thanks for watching and commenting! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 👍🎸

[@chrishudson4940]

@@JimmyStewart1 oh no sir just the blue w black pick guard ill wait on the next itch it may be the offsets lol. Wife wants a new shower so...lol

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@chrishudson4940 Ahh…got it!! 😎 Enjoy and thanks again for stopping in to the channel! A new shower is always good! Did that last year myself! 👍

[@Axess-sv8nq]

Sounds and looks great! 😎👍

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 👍

[@evanjames8748]

Just ordered a sunburst version. Middle of the night flash sale and 15% off came to less than $70.00. Pretty excited to get it.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi Evan…Nice! Congrats and enjoy it! Thanks so much for stopping into the channel and sharing!! 🎸👍

[@evanjames8748]

@@JimmyStewart1 It came yesterday with significant damage... Have to send it back. Monoprice customer service was not very accommodating but I am supposed to get a replacement.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@evanjames8748 Sorry to hear that…was it shipping damage or…it happens unfortunately. Glad to hear they are sending you another. Fingers crossed…🤞

[@Eddyvnhln5150]

Idea for next video, Active pick-ups, why you want one, what happens when battery dies, how to know, how to replace, with tube amp or not,

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi John…thanks so much for watching and commenting. I don’t own too many guitars with “active pups” but I will definitely consider your suggestion in the future. Truly appreciate your stopping into the channel and sharing your thoughts…much thanks! 🎸👍

[@birdman316]

heyy bro i watched this one too! i think i learned a new "chord" while watching you lol! looks like a "jazzy-blues" type....

[@JimmyStewart1]

That’s great!! Keep pickin’ my friend….👍🎸👍

[@jrry101]

Jimmy neither of us can pass up a good deal on a good looking/playing guitar. I just ordered the Cali Classic HSS. $96 and change from California to Indiana. The only problem I've ever had with a Monoprice shipment was because FedEx sent a Retro Tele from Jersey to Toledo then back to Jersey and Toledo again then delivered to Indiana. It was in two pieces on arrival. I would really like to know how anyone can make such high quality instruments and sell them at such a low price. Thanks for your honest reviews. I'll see the Cali when I get a Visa for my wife and come back to the US.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Excellent!! Congrats and enjoy when you get it!! Hopefully shipping goes well for you! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel and the kind comments! 🎸👍

[@wilvern1955]

I bought one of these, liked your review, just got it, hope it's good as your review. action seems a little high but neck looks straight, a little fret sprout but too bad. Finish is good. i think i can adjust action. if not Ill make a slide guitar.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Congrats on the new Monoprice HSS! Fret sprout is relative easy fix (and common) but I would give it a day or so to acclimate to its new surroundings before digging into it. If you still have a bit of sprout, then I use 1000 grit sandpaper, a Revlon nail shaper and about 45 minutes of your time. Cover the fretboard with painters tape just in case, or use some fret protectors if you have them. Action is another easy fix…check your bridge for height…nut slots cut correctly, and give the truss a little relief…should be able to get at least a 1.0mm drop with no issue. Thanks so much for watching and commenting, and truly appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 👍🎸

[@bluwng]

You should check out the Indio Cali Deluxe, ore up to date design, 2 point Wilkinson, 22 frets.

[@JimmyStewart1]

I thought about getting one, but postponed that for the time being… I have 4 Strats now, including my 65 Custom Shop NOS Fender. Perhaps in the future…😎 as I have heard very good things on the Cali Deluxe! Thanks so much bluwng…👍

[@jimmyz2098]

It's funny Jimmy..... you and I suffer from the same Gear Acquisition Disorder. Maybe that's why I dig you! And Brother.... you were killing it in this vid. Great playing. Warm and interesting. And that guitar looks and sounds great! I hate the hook look head-stocks..... but my sanding belt takes care of that and I can re-shape one in 7 or 8 minutes, easily. I might have to take a look at this guitar.

[@JimmyStewart1]

I’ve been a “gear head” since I can remember…problem is, I hate to get rid of anything. Eventually, you start running out of room…so you build more room! 🤣. Appreciate the kind comments, and of course the support! At first, the Indio “hook” bothered me a bit too, but it has since grown on me, so….my chain saw remains in its case. Don’t know if these are currently in stock, but I saw the other day they had the OS 20 in stock, which is basically the same guitar and pup configuration, in a offset body (although the Strat is also considered a offset as well) Not sure about colors or fretboard choices….

[@jimmyz2098]

@@JimmyStewart1 Thanks Jimmy. You're like a drug addict friend now. LOL Now, you also have me all over the green Grote Semi-Hollow Body. Man - I am eyeing that one now - BIG TIME! I hate it tho - b'c it looks like right now all I can find is double Humbucker. And I was really intrigued with the P-90 version you've got. Man - that is a SWEET guitar, and I love Semi's too.

[@jimmyz2098]

@@JimmyStewart1 Jimmy - Same problem here. But I am able to let a few of them go sometimes. Occasionally (maybe once a year or year and half) I will package up 4 or 5 of them or so... and either sell or trade up, for a real nice axe. But it's harder to do with all these cheap guitars, since you can't get much at all for them in shops. But I still think the value you get sometimes is off the charts. We just have to know that when and if we decide to sell / trade. But yeah - having the room is getting tougher. LOL

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@jimmyz2098 🤣🤣 That’s hilarious….I have not seen the matt green P90 equipped Grote for awhile. I would expect them to restock at some point, but as we all know, the current workers, drivers, port backups and other logistic problems make things “iffy” at best….

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@jimmyz2098 I will eventually have to “thin the herd” at some point….just don’t know when that will be. 😎

[@JazzinBlues]

Hey, Jimmy! I picked up the deep blue one (and it WAS on sale.) Unfortunately, to my surprise, it shipped with a maple fretboard! I really liked the look of the rosewood better, but considering the price I was leaning towards keeping it rather than bother shipping it back. Plus, maybe that's how they're coming through now, who knows? I dropped them a line, and suggested that if that's the case, they should change the description and photo online. The only response I got? "Send us a photo!" I did and haven't heard from them since.....

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hmmm….I didn’t notice what the fretboard on the dark blue was, as I was looking for the black, but that’s interesting. As I recall, I thought it showed rosewood, but…. Hopefully Monoprice will do something for you (though like you said, the maple fretboard is also very nice…I got that with my other Cali) Keep me in the loop with what you decide, or if Monoprice comes back with a solution! 👍🎸

[@JazzinBlues]

@@JimmyStewart1 Well, it's been 10 days since I last heard from them (and over two weeks since it arrived, so I guess I now own a collectors' item. They're still showing the rosewood, but it's still on SALE, so it may be on its way out. Maybe I'll try to darken the fretboard... just wanted to update you.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@JazzinBlues Yeah…hmmm…I just checked and the blue does show a rosewood fretboard. Not sure what to tell ya here except if you don’t like it, request a return. Not sure if they can supply you one with rosewood or not, but they probably just need to change the pic, or like you said, you got a “fluke” collector’s addition!! 😎👍

[@robertsparks3584]

You talked me into ordering one tonight

[@JimmyStewart1]

How’d I do that? 🤣 Nice!! Congrats and hope you enjoy it!! Have fun and let me know how you like it! 👍🎸

[@robertsparks3584]

@@JimmyStewart1 been looking at them for a while 95 is a great deal for what I see. I have the same amp I also like it.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@robertsparks3584 Nice man!!! Enjoy! 👍

[@BankerBoy]

Great review Jimmy!...so its really your fault that I am going to add this guitar in blue to my collection...lol....what do you use to treat the fretboard ? and how easy is it to change the nut to graphite?....Thanks!...cheers!

[@JimmyStewart1]

I use Music Nomad F-One for all my fretboards. Changing the nut is easy enough. Just match up the nut measurements with what ever your replacing it with. You may have to do some “shaping” for fit. Just use a small amount of glue to hold the new nut in place. The old nut should “tap” out easily. Use a utility knife to “scour” around it before tapping it out so you don’t loose any fretboard material if they glued it in there with a lot of glue. In most cases, it should come out easily.

[@BankerBoy]

@@JimmyStewart1 Thanks!...and keep your great reviews coming.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@BankerBoy Thanks!! 👍👍

[@joeking433]

Indio guitars are great! I've found them to be 90% as good as American Fenders for under $100! I just got a Firefly SG and couldn't believe the fret work! The fret ends were almost like on an Eart.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting Joe! The Monoprice Indio line is certainly a bargain in my opinion. My Firefly SG also has a great fret job on it as well! Really appreciate your stopping in to the channel and sharing your thoughts! 👍🎸

[@evanjames8748]

I have a heavily modified sunburst telecaster with P-90's that has become my primary guitar. It was awesome before the mods; I want another to leave stock-ish but I prefer the string trough body that they no longer offer... (insert sad face)

[@ibberman]

How do Indio compare to Firefly, a little better?

[@JimmyStewart1]

@ibberman I think for the $$ the Monoprice are hard to beat. However, the newer versions of the FF’s are very, very nice and now equipped with stainless frets, ball ends, Alnico 5 pickups, roasted necks….just a bit more money, but still sub $200…hope that helps and thanks for stopping into the channel. 🎸👍

[@ibberman]

@@JimmyStewart1 Thank you my friend, I'm just an old guy that love guitars. Just bought an Epiphone Firebird, but I'm disappointed with the QC basically everything you expect to find in low cost guitars. I've had better from IVY, Redid and Squier Bullet, so I'm going back to lower cost. Donner, Monoprice Indio, Glarry are guitars I have not experienced yet, but the Firefly would be interesting as well. There is also a certain amount of joy in getting a low cost guitar and improving it to something better than expected, that's why I really enjoy your channel. 👍👍👍.

[@TechnoRiff]

Nice review and addition to your collection! If one had to choose only one between the Indio HSS and SSS, what advice would you have! Thanks!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi TechnoRiff…thanks for watching and commenting. Glad you enjoyed it. Personally, I feel every player should have a standard Strat…however if you could only choose one, you would probably have more choice of “tones” available to you with the HSS. Really depends on what you are looking for…more beefy or more bite and twang…😎 Appreciate your stopping into the channel…much thanks! 🎸👍

[@TechnoRiff]

@@JimmyStewart1 Thanks for your fast thoughts! I'm thinking that a bridge humbucker that could be split into a decent single coil, one could then get positions 1 and 2 along with the ballsiness of a bridge humbucker. For modding a SSS, not sure that a thin bridge humbucker would have the same meatiness of a "real" HB. At these Indio prices though, it's hard to resist just getting both!

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@TechnoRiff My pleasure man…I am not a huge fan of “splitting” a humbucker as most simply don’t sound as good as a decent single coil in my opinion. You are correct on getting both…😎 at those prices, honestly. Can’t go wrong with either or….🎸👍

[@TechnoRiff]

@@JimmyStewart1 Thanks! I just got an Indio SSS on a whim, and was very impressed that they used a RWRP on the middle pickup for noise cancellation on positions 2 and 4. Now the HSS version is calling out, and I'm also seeing some loaded pickguards with HSS, some with all humbuckers with coil splits as an upgrade to the SSS. Too many options! We live in a golden age!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Yes, we do!! I have added a number of very reasonably priced guitars to the “herd” in the past few years. The basic Monoprice Cali and Retro Tele are some of the nicer playing “budget” models out there in my opinion for less than a Benjamin. All the best in your quest and hope to see you on the channel more! 🎸👍

[@dennismullin3052]

Great job Jim. Is the headstock different? Looks more Fender-ish. Less of a hook. Thanks!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks for watching and commenting Dennis… Headstock is the same, with the “Indio Hook”…😎 Perhaps we are getting use to it (never really bothered me) 👍😎

[@dennismullin3052]

@@JimmyStewart1 me either! I just “dig” my Cali Classic in surf blue.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@dennismullin3052 Right on….much more guitar than you would think for the $$….👍🎸

[@cdavidlake2]

Hello there! As a fellow Indio enthusiast, I have a question for you: What guage strings came on your HSS? They feel like 10s to me (as opposed to 9s on the SSS Indio), but I can find no information on this anywhere. Thank you...love your content, btw!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting cdavidlake2…I believe they all come strung with 10’s. I run D’ADDARIO 9’s on the majority of my guitars, so knowing how they feel, I believe the Indio’s (as most imports do) come factory strung with 10’s This is by feel…I have not measured them as they come right off anyway..😎 Appreciate your stopping in to the channel and hope to see you around more! 👍🎸

[@summerboy1958]

Hey Jimmy, I have both the hss and the amp. What settings do you have on the amp? Tone is great. Also, I can't seem to get that "quack" in 2 & 4. Did you?

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hey Bruce!! Thanks so much for watching and commenting! I would have to go back and watch this to tell you specifically what I had set for this particular video…😎 I swap tones around based on the guitar I am using at the time, and of course what I am playing. I do generally use my HoTone Ampero with a clean patch, slight reverb and a delay setting (again variable) and I also have dual peddle boards with two Sonic Cake multi effects (the Twiggy Blues and Rock Stage) I will also use from time to time. Amp is on the 1watt setting in the studio…everything generally in the middle…verb around 3, gain around 3. Are you counting the switch positions from neck down, or humbucker up? 😎 The pups are not as “quacky” as the Calli Classic in my opinion, but you can coax some Stratty quack from it. Appreciate your stopping in to the channel!! 👍🎸

[@grayblackwood6741]

great! just bought mine for 73 on ebay new from monoprice!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi Gray…thanks so much for watching and commenting! Congrats on your new Cali HSS! Great deal you got…hope you enjoy and have fun with it!! Appreciate your stopping into the channel, and congrats once again! Keep pickin’…..🎸👍

[@craigjacob3704]

I wish they had a bigger offering of left handed guitars. My wife is a lefty and she would soften up alittle if I got her one. But they only have one and she isn't a fan of sunburst. If they had that strat in Fiesta red I would grab it for her in a minute😁

[@JimmyStewart1]

Yeah, it’s always tough for left handed guitarists! You could always just “Hendrix” her one!! 👍😎

[@craigjacob3704]

@@JimmyStewart1 dang never really thaught of that. Might be a great idea. Or just get all the stuff together and build her a parts caster

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@craigjacob3704 Yep!! Either way would work..you could get a righty…flip the bridge, flip/replace the nut…controls would be on top, but hey…shouldn’t be too much of a issue! 😎

[@bobacosta1594]

38 minute video? EDIT is the word of the day!

[@JimmyStewart1]

🤣 Think of it as the “directors” cut….😎 Honestly, I pay no attention to time when I am recording these…you should have seen it before I edited it…thanks so much for stopping in! 👍

[@bluwng]

I love that blue Jazzmaster, is that a Fender?

[@JimmyStewart1]

The blue guitar you are referring to is actually a Jaguar…it’s the new Fender Squier Contemporary Jaguar. I have reviews of it here on the channel should you care to have a closer look and listen to it! They only came in two colors, this Sky Blue Metallic, and a “goldfish” color I think they called shoreline. A very nice Jag…I like it a lot! Thanks for watching and commenting bluwng…truly appreciate it! 👍🎸

[@misterknightowlandco]

Just bought the sunburst hss version of this from Monoprice today 2-17-23 for 100 bucks plus 25 off with the day cose

[@JimmyStewart1]

That’s excellent!! Congrats and enjoy it!! Some great deals this weekend for their “President Day Sale”!! Been awhile since we have seen a sale PLUS discount codes!! Thanks so much for stopping in and sharing! 🎸👍

[@floydthebarber9956]

Jimmy... How flat is the neck and what would you guess the fretboard radius to be? The thick ones really tire my hands out. TIA

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi Floyd…thanks for watching and commenting! Monoprice claims their fretboard radius is 9.5 on the Cali Classic, but it just doesn’t feel like a 9.5 to me. Feels a bit flatter, I would say closer to a 12” radius. It is not a “thick” neck say like a LP, more Stat /Tele for sure. Hope that helps! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍

[@gamerhousegaming]

what is the red guitar on the floor right next to the white strat?

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks for watching and commenting Gamer House…that guitar is the IYV “Brian May Red Special” clone made in Vietnam by Inyen Vina Guitars.

[@These_go_to_eleven_1959]

Are you 100% positive they are Basswood? I need a pre painted Basswood or Poplar body for a project and the white cali classic would be perfect for $89! I have all the other parts already including a killer neck.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting…yes they are basswood bodies with swimming pools routes. Good luck on your project…appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 👍

[@These_go_to_eleven_1959]

@@JimmyStewart1 Excellent thanks! what a deal this is, a pre painted and drilled basswood body for $89 shipped!

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@These_go_to_eleven_1959 It’s a great deal…remember however, this is the HSS version which I believe is a bit more than the Cali Classic version which is SSS…both are basswood bodies however.

[@bobbya8622]

Unboxing!👍

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting Bobby!! Much appreciated! 🎸👍

[@annex6]

What is your effects set up(what pedals, in what order)?

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi Joseph, and thanks for stopping in to the channel! I use a couple of different rigs, depending on what I am doing. I also use a HoTone Ampero alongside my racks, so it depends on what patches I have setup. Tuner, compression, EQ, modulation, distortion/overdrives, delays and reverbs last in the chain usually. I have a couple of videos on my effects racks here on the channel. Demos and reviews of the SoniCake’s I use as well. Everything fed via my RC-5 Loop Station to the effects loop of the Monoprice 15w valve amp.

[@annex6]

@@JimmyStewart1 thanks for being humble enough to answer and share.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@annex6 My pleasure…appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 👍🎸

[@robertsparks3584]

I will get mine Monday I will tell you what I think

[@JimmyStewart1]

Sounds good Robert….good luck and enjoy!! 👍🎸

[@j.t.cooper2963]

I got mine for $74.99. So far so good. Mine's blue.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Hi J.T. That’s excellent! Congrats and enjoy! Appreciate your stopping into the channel and sharing! 🎸👍

[@j.t.cooper2963]

@@JimmyStewart1 You're welcome and thanks for the video!

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@j.t.cooper2963 My pleasure…🎸👍

[@overcome8628]

You never have enough guitars!

[@JimmyStewart1]

The “truth” is spoken…🤣

[@robertsparks3584]

Make perfect sense to me

[@JimmyStewart1]

🤣🤣 Thanks so much Robert! 👍👍

[@ekw555]

hard to believe that the "Retro" (Tele) is $85 for the blonde version right now. were it not for my "promise" to buy no more gear until I can play, I'd have one on order, just because . . .

[@JimmyStewart1]

Yeah, the GAS on these is hard to resist! 🤣 Thanks so much for watching and the support ewk555! 👍😎

[@bobbya8622]

Navy!!! Anchor’s Aweigh!

[@JimmyStewart1]

Ha!! Yes indeed!! 🎸👍

[@devilishmoss8598]

Which is better, hss, cali or the retro classic?

[@JimmyStewart1]

Tough question…3 different guitars really. I like them all!! Depending on if you prefer a Strat style body or Tele…having a humbucker in the bridge or single coil…getting all 3 solves the problem! 😎 Thanks for stopping in to the channel.., Much appreciated! 🎸👍

[@devilishmoss8598]

@@JimmyStewart1 I appreciate your reply

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@devilishmoss8598 My pleasure…all the full reviews of the Cali, Retro and HSS are also available here on the channel!! 🎸👍

[@glenclarkchidley3637]

Holy shit Jimmy… That was painful. I gave rounds 3 Thru 8 to the box.

[@JimmyStewart1]

🤣🤣 That’s great! 👍

[@robertsparks3584]

Jimmy I wanted to let you I got home unboxed this everything looked pretty good but that's as far as it goes. Mine looked like needles for frets and the low e string after stretched in tune the intonation was so sharp and the saddle was cranked all the way back. I'm not sure the strings was electric and the proper gauge. I was hoping to give news it was like yours but it was a hot mess. I contacting them tomorrow to return.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Wow!! Sorry to hear this Robert…I find that pretty unusual as most all I have heard from have received a very nice guitar. Fret sprout and dry fretboard are the most common issues. Of course, a proper setup is also something that most guitars in this price range will require. Are you asking for a refund or exchange for another?

[@robertsparks3584]

@@JimmyStewart1 refund you get what you pay I should have know better.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@robertsparks3584 I can understand the frustration Robert…especially when you wait with good expectations and it’s not there. I have been very pleased with all 3 Monoprice guitars I have received and so have many, many others. There is always a chance to receive a instrument not quite up to par out of the box, especially online when you don’t have the chance to play it beforehand. This happens with any brand…not just Monoprice or inexpensive guitars. I hope you get one that suits your needs and expectations. 🙏

[@robertsparks3584]

@@JimmyStewart1 I know it's like different fret material was used I have never seen that thin of fret wire and it didn't look that way on yours. The bridge has to be off in placement.

[@sixstrings4568]

$233 Canuck bucks up here on Amazon Canada.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Try ordering direct from Monoprice if interested! Better pricing than Amazon on these. Don’t know what shipping/customs costs are, but should be much cheaper then Amazon for the Monoprice guitars. Thanks for watching and commenting….much appreciated! 👍🎸

[@2bikemikesguitartopics145]

Yup it sounds good but that's partly due to the guitarist. $234 in Canada. We don't see amazon specials here like you do

[@JimmyStewart1]

🤣 Ha! Thanks Mike…I order directly from Monoprice. Cheaper than Amazon. Not sure about shipping to Canada! Thanks so much for watching and commenting….appreciate it! 👍

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@Heroesworkshop Correct!! 👍

[@brokenspokes3739]

Just ordered one from Amazon arrives in 2 days free shipping list price 201 tax 27 total $228 Canadian. My Gibson SG standard was nearly $2000 after tax. I never liked the feel of strats but I'm going to give strat style another shot

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@brokenspokes3739 Congrats!! Strat’s are basically “offsets” so their feel is often subjective. I like offsets, as they conform to my body and playing style. They just feel more comfortable to me, especially if sitting. This also gives you the combo of those slinky/Strat like quack tones with a Humbucker to grab a little more “meat” should you want it. I think you will enjoy it, especially with a budget price to boot!! Congrats again, and thanks for watching and commenting! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 👍🎸

[@brokenspokes3739]

@@JimmyStewart1 I'm hearing good things about the monoprice 15 watt tube amp thats next on the shopping list right now I have the peavy vypyr 2 I can't get the volume past 1 or it will blow the windows out of my house

[@dukeofearl4117]

Have you checked out Harley Benton

[@JimmyStewart1]

Yes!! I have a couple of them, with reviews here on the channel. A bit more expensive and around $75 in shipping these days! I think the value of the Monoprice and the guitar itself is a better deal IMHO, at least for the Indio’s and Harley Bentons I have bought! Thanks for watching and commenting, much appreciated! 👍

[@dukeofearl4117]

@@JimmyStewart1 Thanks Jimmy, I enjoy all your presentations. I recall that you were in the navy. I was to during the Nam period. We had a band that would perform on the hanger deck of the Kitty Hawk on Sunday evenings. They had all their instruments, drums and amps. Everything once in awhile we’d have a bbq on the flight deck. I really enjoyed my 6 years in the navy. Afterwards I got my degree and finished another 36 years in the army.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@dukeofearl4117 Yes…retired after 21 active in 94. We use to play on the hanger bay of the Nimitz too! I was pre-com crew (Plank Owner) and played (ships band) everywhere on her! Thanks for your service! Appreciate the support to the channel, and thanks for watching and kind comments! 👍

[@These_go_to_eleven_1959]

The neck is a 12" radius

[@JimmyStewart1]

I measured it at 9.5 with my radius gauges

[@These_go_to_eleven_1959]

@@JimmyStewart1 that's odd because on this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4SmnH2igcp8kKc he shows the neck radi at 12" with a radius gauge?

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@These_go_to_eleven_1959 Well….they measured in at 9.5 on mine (they are advertised at 9.5 as well) Not a lot of difference really, but..

[@Hiro.the.God.]

That guitar sounds great! Ive heard 300 dollar guitars sound way worse.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting! It’s a great guitar and a bargain in my opinion! Thanks again for stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍

[@Hiro.the.God.]

@@JimmyStewart1 I subbed as well! Good content my fellow guitar aficionado.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@Hiro.the.God. Thanks so very much!! So glad you came over to the “good side” 😎 Welcome aboard and hope you continue to enjoy the channel! 🎸👍

[@dannywilliams3516]

There's no such thing as having enough of what makes you happy if it makes you happy and what the heck you said you didn't have one like that anyway so go for it man life is short have fun do what makes you happy my biggest Hobbies Jimmy is metal detecting I've got a dozen metal detectors and it's not enough I want more every time I turn around there's a new one coming out and I've got to have it that's what it's all about man can't take it with you when you go enjoy it unless you're going to give it all to your kids and well in my case I don't have any kids to leave at 2 so I'm going to enjoy it while I've got it. Do the same and don't worry about what people say man. And that's a big 10-4 I'm out.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Totally agree….. thanks!! 🙏

[@mancub1589]

Oh yeah, totally. My wife can sell all my guitars when I’m gone, but for now, I’m buying more.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@mancub1589 I hear ya!! Enjoy them while you can!! Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Much appreciated! 👍🎸

[@mancub1589]

Thanks Jimmy, keep making videos!

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@mancub1589 Appreciate it….I will certainly keep giving it a shot…👍🎸

[@officialdandaman]

What's the price ❓

[@JimmyStewart1]

Normally, $120 but on sale right now for $95 Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍🎸

[@officialdandaman]

@@JimmyStewart1 where ❓ I'm looking on Amazon now, they are $116-128.🎸 If it's only $95 & Free shipping I'll order one now.

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@officialdandaman Not on Amazon…order directly from monoprice.com Free shipping too!

[@officialdandaman]

@@JimmyStewart1 I'll check ✅

[@officialdandaman]

@@JimmyStewart1 I'm looking at the light blue one now for $99. I'm in Hawaii so I'm wondering if I still get Free shipping ❓

[@craigjacob3704]

I want to go to monoprice and order one right now, but my wife would probably make me sleep in the ditch out back if I do🙄!!!

[@JimmyStewart1]

🤣🤣 Tell her it’s all my fault….😎👍

[@glenclarkchidley3637]

We all gotta make sacrifices brother!

[@glenclarkchidley3637]

I just checked their site $95 shipped! Surely you have one bad habit you can trade off for a month or so!

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@glenclarkchidley3637 👍👍

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@glenclarkchidley3637 🤣

[@robertsparks3584]

I read today and the radius is 14.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Not sure what you read Robert or where, but I measured the fretboard with a radius gauge and it is actually a 9.5” radius.

[@robertsparks3584]

@@JimmyStewart1 I was looking at specs on monoprice guitars. I was trying to get detail on the nut. I plan on upgrading it. All I found was 42mm x 3mm. If you have information on that I am interested. I'm thinking about graphtech nut.

[@robertsparks3584]

@@JimmyStewart1 that's good I have a G&L that's a 9.5

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@robertsparks3584 👍👍

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@robertsparks3584 A graph tech would be fine. Nut replacement is pretty basic, but just be careful with removal. You will have to do probably a little shaping on any replacement. The nut on these is ABS, but mine was cut and shaped nicely, so no plans on replacing mine. Get it and play it, then see what you may want to replace or upgrade. 42mm should do the job.

[@robertsparks3584]

I think the cali classic sounds better

[@JimmyStewart1]

I would agree that in a “Strat” that the 3 single coils are more to my taste as well! However, if you want to use the same guitar for dirtier sounds, having a humbucker in the bridge is a option that can do the job! Thanks so much for watching and commenting, it’s truly appreciated! 👍

[@leodanryan966]

Nice guitar Jimmy. I purchased one of the SSS Indio Cali Classic guitars a few years ago. It developed a problem with one of the pickups so I swapped the pickguard out with a white preloaded pickguard with Alnico 5 pickups (it was cheap like $25). I gave it to a friend who wanted to learn how to play. Great review 👏👌.

[@JimmyStewart1]

Nice gesture Leo….would like to know where you got a pre-loaded pick guard with Alnivo 5’s for $25?? Any trouble fitting it? As always, I appreciate you stopping in and the support! 👍🎸

[@leodanryan966]

@@JimmyStewart1 I think it was a Musiclily I got on Amazon. They're $31.40 now: www.amazon.com/dp/B07C7BT4TN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_GQX5ZWQ79A9DAC34DHVZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

[@JimmyStewart1]

@@leodanryan966 Thanks Leo…I will take a look for future “reference”….appreciate it! 👍