A viewer’s question: Are Oswald really a rival to Fender’s Custom Shop?

Equipment used today:
Oswald OS
Oswald OJ
Cornell Romany 12
Strymon Flint Tremolo used on the Strat
Looper: NUX drum & loop pro
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No computers, no audio interfaces, no special mics or cameras. Just my iphone, then uploaded to iMovie then to KZbin
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If you have a query, or if you simply wish to buy me a coffee via PayPal, then my PayPal address and email are one and the same:
[e-mail] (or 078900 67773)
Thanks folks 😊

[@jltrem]

Lovely tour, Paul. Regarding relicing, I'm the type who polishes his guitars habitually, brushing off any speck of dust and gets sickened and has to go to bed for a week if there's ever a dent or scratch, BUT what Master Nick (as Dave Simpson refers to him) and some others do (Dr. Nitro of 8Bomb) is create facsimiles of beautifully aged and worn instruments, not as others do and call it relicing, simply beat up and damage a guitar. You end up not with a naturally looking aged and worn instrument but one that someone dragged behind a car. I was once in a pawn shop in Florida and there was a Clapton Strat (price $1100) that literally looked someone had done just that. Thanks, Paul.

[@williamweiss3620]

I feel exactly the same. I have the Ultra Stratocaster HSS in Cobra blue. It looks exactly like it did when I bought it. Beautiful!!! I want the shine! Thank you for making me feel normal.😂

[@TheCravenIsReal]

Thanks Paul. You're like the perfect segue between the euro-abstract Tobias (which I dig immensely ) and my wild west (desert mountains/southwest USA) guitar proclivities. I can def. track with you and your sensibilities- tastes, playing and guitars. Everything about this channel is great A+ !

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you so much man, your words have left a big smile on my face. Cheers 🍻

[@mikebarnard2689]

Oak Grigsby switches are simply the 3 or 5-way pickup selector switch . The other big name is CRL . I’m a big fan of vintage ( 30%) taper pots with relatively low friction... for me they give a perfect taper with a smooth volume swell and no sharp increase or decrease from 8.5-10 that 10-20% taper pots do. They also work very well as tone pots , reducing the treble cut off more gradually from 3.5-0 instead of the all or none from 2-0. Small details but it’s the stuff that counts if you use the vol and tone a lot. Great video .

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks for the info Mike 👍

[@goswo]

I own 2 of Nicks guitars. Both amazing, uniq and keepers for sure. Nick is a true Masterbuilder and a really great guy.

[@iwanttoplaywithspringsteen9188]

I have always fancied a relicted custom guitar . Probably won’t ever do it couldn’t stand the 18 month or so wait , There’s always quite a high element of risk if it’s a one man business . I have had a bad experience going custom on another item . Popularity can sometimes mean difficulty in fulfilling orders and it’s not as easy as saying take on more staff . Being a great artisan is one thing but sometimes the business side of things can be lacking .. Glad you had a great experience

[@RobertJSedky]

Beautiful playing 🙌🏼

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Robert 👍

[@petergoddard1960]

Paul in full enabler mode, not a 'family' friendly episode. Perfect. Damn that Jazzmaster with flats is glorious to behold.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Peter, delighted you like the sound of my Jazzmaster 😊

[@nlumby]

...nicely put and great feedback for Nick (and Fender) ...have to say I'm not very keen on the 'unfinished' hole 'look' for the truss rod at the neck end and that's across all brands!

[@glenlapwing8468]

Wow! The clean tone on that jazzmaster is amazing! Happy you gave a nod to Tobias Hoffman. Well done Paul😀

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Glen. Yes I’m a very happy bunny when it comes to that Jazzmaster. 🙏

[@Dizzle7771]

My Oswald Strat has insanely rolled fingerboard edges, more than I've seen on any other guitar, Fender Custom shop included. But I did specify that for the build as I play a lot with my thumb over the neck. I wanted to buy a custom shop Fender with a Koa top, but it had a measly thin veneer cap. The top of my Oswald Strat has a huge slab of higher quality Koa than Fender uses. It's better than any Strat I've ever played by a very long way. Not to mention incredibly well finished stainless steel frets.

[@burtnekkid7970]

Fantastic little ditty there Paul. As usual, the subtlety and touch are wonderful. The introduction of the backing half way through does a fabulous thing to the feel, taking it into a different realm, shame it ended so soon :) Absolutely loved it. Thanks

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Glad you enjoyed it Burt, cheers 🍻

[@shanebrbich5698]

I think Leo would be smiling down right about now! Such magnificent representations of his creations handcrafted to aural perfection! 👍🇦🇺

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Shane, that makes me smile 🍻

[@superreality3823]

Thanks Paul for such a great video. Loved your insights and the playing gets more sublime with every new release. I love your passion for all your guitars. For me, Oswald every time and I would echo all your love for Nick's incredible works of playable art.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Many thanks superreality 👍

[@_R_A_]

I've wanted an Oswald every since I saw Dave Simpson playing one a couple years back. The aging is second to none. I live in Arizona so it's a ways to ship. I played a Nash guitar in Seattle at a local music shop on a business trip in 2019 and loved it. Bought a used t-63 (great deals on used these days) for $1550. Been playing it for a week and it's everything I wanted it to be. Looking forward to an Oswald or Custom Shop one day. Thanks for the comparison Paul, good stuff as usual.

[@robertkidd6270]

I love Nash guitars...perfect reliced Jeff Beck telecaster and one of the best guitars I've ever played.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks R A. Yes, I’ve heard great things about Nash.

[@frankbolam7812]

Thank you Paul for a great video which sets me up for a wee jazz gig tomorrow. I think I’ll use my 175 ( with a Charlie Christian pickup) am not bragging honest LOL Hope your and your family have a great weekend 🎸🎼🎶👍❤️

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Have a great gig Frank 👍

[@zpmc55]

No one plays like you Paul! You rock! Thank you for the notes and the thoughts!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

I appreciate that, thanks. 🍻

[@williamhurrelbrink3324]

Just a few moments in here, and I hadda say, Tobias Hoffman IS very inspiring, as are you.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Yeah, I just can’t get enough of the guy. I bounce between being inspired by him and then being demoralized when I realize I’ll just never achieve that level.

[@seanzinger]

Love the honest thoughts here. Can’t believe how affordable the Oswald’s are. I recently got a Bunting Melody Queen and Yaniv is very good at keeping you updated. It’s incredible how personal he is with his clients. My kids also think relic guitars look like they came out of a garbage can 😂 but I love ‘em like you do! Love Chandler!! 🐈

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Seanzinger. Actually, I played my first Bunting about 6 months ago and I gotta say I really liked it! It was through the crappiest amp I’ve ever had the misfortune to play through…. But despite that, I very much enjoyed the vibe of the Bunting.

[@seanzinger]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 That’s awesome! How did you get your hands on one?

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

@@seanzinger It was hanging on the wall of a Glasgow Guitar shop called Strung Out Guitars. It just had a great vibe.

[@williamweiss3620]

Paul, this will be the video that I will save because it is so educational. I waited with you on the jazzmaster and when it finally arrived I was blown away by the tone. I would love to have an Oswald guitar. I wouldn't hesitate at all to purchase one. Thanks again for your honesty because I've listen to you for so long that I know that you know what you're talkin about. Keep the information coming and of course the beautiful music 🎵. Love you all Bill.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

What a lovely comment Bill, I really appreciate that. Cheers 🍻

[@weschilton]

All lovely guitars that sound exceptional! I myself have a 59 Custom Shop Strat that I adore and will never part with and I just bout a 61 Custom shop Precision bass in Sherwood green metallic that is absolutely sublime!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Ooo, I like the idea of that bass in Sherwood Green….. congrats Wes

[@johnianknox1629]

Hello fella, always love the sounds, the jazzer is so mellow . If your sitting comfortably I'll begin. 1. A Scotsman Englishman Irishman and a Welshman are fighting in the British army in Afghanistan when they're captured by the Taliban, the chief tells them they will be executed anyway but can have one last request, Taffy says " I want to hear 100 Welshmen sing THE MAN OF HARLECH", Paddy says " I want to see 100 Irishmen do THE RIVERDANCE ", Cecil says " I want to hear 100 Englishmen sing " FOOTBALLS' COMING HOME", Jock says "SHOOT ME FIRST". 2. The captain of a ship discovered a stowaway, he says "how long have you been hiding on board my ship ?", lad says " 6 months", captain says " how have you survived ?", lad says " one of the crew has been bringing me food and drink", captain says "and what have you been doing for him ?", lad says " I've been letting him do me", captain says " he isn't half been doing you, THIS IS THE GOVAN FERRY". take care kid.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Once again John, pure gold 🤣

[@Baci302]

Paul, my dog and I are relaxing as well enjoy your beautiful guitar playing. Its mesmerizing. Can you tell us more about those songs you were riffing on? Also, those Oswald Guitars sound incredible. They have a really nice single coil chime to them.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you Baci, and I’m delighted your dog enjoyed it too! Yes, the first song was heavily inspired one of the Vintage Oldenburg videos from Tobias Hoffmann. The man’s a genius! And the song on my Strat was actually inspired by a song from Laufey, called “Let you break my heart again”.

[@knowl1969]

Your guitar playing.....matches my playing goals!!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you man 🍻

[@willgoodall6104]

I do not doubt for one second how great those guitars are Paul but it is you that makes them sound the way they do. Your touch, note choice and phrasing bloody floor me. In the real world I am sitting in the rain in Stirling but in my other world, after some careful preparation I am riding some ethereal soundscape propelled by you and six strings. Beautiful. The cat's not bad either. Peace!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you Will. I especially like your reference to being in Stirling. I love visiting Stirling. One of my favourite things to do is escape my normal life for 24hrs and head for a day & night in Stirling. I always stay in the Golden Lion, and then I have a couple of vinos in the hotel bar. Then it’s off to the chippy for fish supper!

[@gregmock6808]

Your playing is getting amazing Paul...it was always great but you've gotten such a sweet touch on the fretboard ...congrats! Beautiful guitars! I have a Custom tele that has the qtr pounder in the bridge and a Bill Lawrence in the neck that is really great for a tele.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you for the compliment on my playing Greg, that makes me smile 🍻

[@The802Rider]

Wonderful playing as always! I love listening to these little songs.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you man, I’m delighted you like my little tunes 😊

[@mac7659]

I love my Oswald

[@denmar355]

Needs a Fender experienced tech to massage it good. I’ll bet you get it quiet and reliable for less than $300 pounds. There isn’t that much to it in terms of parts. Some rerouting of wires, better grounding, reflow solder, and possibly better tubes can work miracles. Best of luck on your amp journey! Love your beautiful playing!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks denmar, appreciated 👍

[@RodC14]

I ordered a Strat with twin hum buckers from Nick in April 23 and finally arrived after some UK custom redtape yesterday 9/1/24. Indeed a long wait but well worth it, it's beautiful, exact to spec. Neck feels superb, look forward to making music with it.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Congrats on the new Strat Rod. 🤘

[@stratpod]

they are all gorgeous , i'm not a big fan of the artificial relicing , it's a personal choice, but in saying that, the light relicing i had on my telecaster did look ok. In reality how many of us can afford the real thing. Any guitar that makes you want to play is a great guitar, no matter the price. I've had the most expensive and some of the cheapest, and the playing pleasure in no way correlated to the price. At the end of the day, "you like what you like" Anywhoo, great vid, thanks for posting mate

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Wise words Charlie. Hope you’ve been enjoying our Indian summer 😊🍻

[@stratpod]

feck me it's been roasting past couple of day's, pity it's been crap for the past month, you been out at the busking ? @@paulstaffordcook8799

[@VeniceKing1]

Great video, so good to see how passionate you are. I think I'll order a Fender Custom Shop, to my spec, a hardtail 60s strat. Appreciate your honesty about the painful waiting!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks VeniceKing. And I’m sure you’ll LOVE your Fender Custom Shop. They are a joy to own.

[@jwilkinson341]

I love the ash body grain of the Strat and would not see that in a Fender

[@Saladzingers]

Agree with all of the above! (I bought an Oswald OS after seeing on your channel so - enjoy that Mastery trem!) Similarly I had thought I'd get a bit more in the way of updates from Nick, but can understand how busy he must be. So there are long periods of radio silence that can feel pretty agonising... but ultimately even a Custom shop is some guy handpicking parts of a production line for you, to your specification. Having Nick carve the damn thing out by hand is quite incredible, especially at the prices he (currently) charges. I asked for possibly a "subtle flame" on the maple neck and man, it is exactly that. Gorgeous. For some reason I really have never cared to have the Fender name on the headstock. I think it's because they've always been the Ford of the guitar world, made for mass production. Buying a super fancy, limited edition/custom genuine Fender for megabucks almost seems to miss the point - if you're buying a Ford, get a standard Fiesta, that's what they do best - or get something else! Whereas with my Les Paul I did really want it to be a Gibson. Weird, huh. I don't have any more guitar lust and I hope this will stay the same for a while, but if Nick starts doing thinline OTs...

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

That’s so interesting you mention your feelings on Fenders being like Fords, i.e. a kinda working man’s guitar. Whereas Gibsons somehow seeming more posh. I too am exactly like you about needing to see Gibson on the headstock of my Les Pauls. I know it’s probably a bit silly, especially these days with Eastman, Maybach etc. But it’s just how I currently feel 🤣

[@mofateam1]

That jazzmaster is beautiful !

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks, I’m glad you like it. It’s a joy to play! Cheers 🍻

[@gregb6387]

Gorgeous playing Paul. Both the Oswald's look and sound amazing, or it the guy playing them.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Greg, I’m a lucky boy 😊

[@pimpdaddy7327]

Fantastically smooth playing Brother Paul o7🎸 Pristine quality tones coming out of the Oswalds! Quality pickup package you were talking about for the pickup swap!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks pimpdaddy 👍

[@kevinyoung8892]

I have an Oswald tele, as you said Paul i waited 9 months for it, i love the guitar, it is a light guitar and effortless to play. The only thing Custom Shop has in its favour is resale price.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Yes, I agree about the resale value. Glad you like your Oswald.

[@gwbuilder5779]

It's pretty clear that you've settled in to the Jazz Master quite nicely.👌🤙

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks GW, I’m over the moon 🙏

[@padovann]

Your Oswald is not helping my Jazzmaster craving 😂 When I bought my old deluxe a few years back the guy was like hey take a spin on my guitar. Whips out a ‘65 Jazzmaster and my heart melted. Those clean tones are to die for

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Padovann, and sorry about fueling your GAS 🤣

[@vayabroder729]

Fenders are easier to replicate because they’re put together more mechanically. Quite a few builders do improved Fender clones by choosing premium parts which is no different from what Fender does at the Custom Shop. Regarding relics, that is the hardest thing to achieve tastefully. Many go overboard to where they look fake or totally trashed. The main advantage of reliced instruments is the playing comfort, especially the necks. I have a few reliced “partscasters” and they are all great because they’ve been put together with premium bodies and parts. In the US we have MJT and Musikraft and they have great reliced bodies and necks and even complete guitars and every one of them I’ve tried are amazingly great and like you, have bonded with them totally. Lovely playing and sounds! Thank you.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks vayabroder 👍

[@glenhorrabin]

I guess if your buying a guitar to keep the Oswald are definately a good option. Only sticking point for me would be resale, I think you’d move a fender a lot lot quicker than an Oswald. Fenders I guess will only go up in value too. Great vid.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

@@glenhorrabin You make good points Glen. Cheers for watching 👍

[@QS-si3cq]

@@glenhorrabin *definitely. No "a" in that word. Do you really say it with an "a" in it when you speak? Ans, it's "you're" or "you are," not "your."

[@zenlandzipline]

⁠​⁠@@QS-si3cqFunny, yer tryna be the grammar police as you put the letter S at the end of “and”. You spelled it “ANS”. Do you really say it with an S in it when you speak?

[@astewart9410]

Thanks for this! You have a lovely collection, indeed. My dream is a 1974 Telecaster (my birth year), but the Fender Custom Shop and the Oswalds might be in the same ballpark, price-wise, so if the '74 goes crazy (as next year it's 50, as am I), I could have other options!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks astewart, I wish you luck in pursuit of a ‘74 Tele 😊

[@astewart9410]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 I'll take all the luck I can get, as it'll likely never happen (if I'm being honest). Not enough money for that! But I can sure dream!

[@Tweed_Tone]

Unlike for Gibson, when it comes to tele or Strat shaped guitars I’m more than happy to try other brands/custom builds.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

I feel the exact same way! I don’t think I can see myself with a Gibson alternative yet….. maybe I need to mature more as a person 🤣, but I just can’t see it happening, despite the wonderful guitars that exist from Eastman etc etc.

[@Tweed_Tone]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 exactly, I’ve played some Collings that were amazing. Knocked every USA Gibson out the water and was up there with the Gibson custom shop. Same with heritage, it’s just their ugly headstocks always throws me off. I wish I wasn’t a snob when it comes to Gibson I feel the body shape and all has to say gibson for me. They definitely have some psychological effect. Also I’m not a die hard fender fan, therefore I think other brands can easily capture that fender sound and look

[@ddnsconsulting]

Brilliant episode, thank you! But I think Chandler might be on to something 😂

[@Nick-r2e]

Ive got one of Nicks guitars, and i have owned a lot of guitars before, its up there with any Fender custom shop, if not better!

[@paulcormack9238]

Thanks Paul, brilliant. Have you heard of Matteo Mancuso a jazz fusion player from Sicily, only age 26. I read about him in the Guitarist Magazine. He's incredible, many influences, including Robben Ford, Eric Johnson and Bonamassa...superb!!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Hi Paul, hope you’re doing great. And yes! Isn’t Matteo just incredible! His weird right hand style of “plucking” like a bass player on speed, and his left hand that’s just 100 mph all over the place. Makes me think I should just give up 🤣

[@nightsdew8136]

Awesome awesome video.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you man, I’m delighted you liked it. 🍻

[@petebrown6204]

Beautiful

[@Taylort3b]

Hope all is well Paul. Two weeks since your last post so I presume the funk has yet to lift. I know the feeling. Almost five weeks post cycling accident and I have progressed from Walker to crutches. Good news is I am back in the pool and have with the assistance of my wife, navigated the stairs down to my music room and guitars. Energy levels still low but at least my geographical range has improved. Looking forward to burning the crutches in one more week and playing more than a few bars of music. This to shall pass. Don’t suppress the need for a break from your music. The creative juices will return.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Hi Taylort3b, sounds like you’re making progress. Sending you wishes for a speedy recovery 🤞👍. And yes, still in a musical funk at the moment, but I like your advice.

[@Taylort3b]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 Thanks Paul. Crutches have gone and I am back to driving. Walking needs a little tweaking but it will come. Fatigue is my biggest enemy right now which is related to the concussion. That too will pass. But I am back in my music room with my stable of guitars. Things are looking up. Just need to give my brain a rest. Cheers and stay well.

[@stevest3v3]

Good point about your fingers falling off Fender rolled fingerboards, but personally I got used to it fairly quickly, although Oswald's are appear great versions of Fender type instruments. Alternatively, everyone needs to try Ivison (for Gibson influenced) guitars. They are simply fantastic all round guitars.

[@Taylort3b]

Really enjoyed this Paul. Your passion for and skill with the guitar along with your humble delivery is like a comfy blanket for guitarists. Like a walk through a petting zoo. I can’t help but believe that Oswald feels the same. If I were to make a guitar, which I have, you would be the one I would chose to review it. I swear it is not my Scottish heritage that makes me biased. Well maybe a bit. And just when you come out with another inspiring video I have gone and thrown a wrench into my playing. I have spent the last four days in hospital after launching myself over the handle bars of my bike fracturing the femur on my ten month old hip replacement and suffering a concussion. Once again my challenge to hold off aging has backfired. So now confined to one floor of the house, I cannot make it to my music room. Nor can I navigate the stairs out the back door to the pool. Was there anything positive? My bike helmet saved my life and I live to pick up my guitars another day. So a word of warning to your body of aging fans. Wear a helmet or sell your bike. I will make it to my 77th birthday in November.😅 Question. How would I go about sending you a photo of my home built Strat? Cheers.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Ah man, that sounds painful!! I mean it sounds quite traumatic! Well fingers crossed your body heals quickly. And I’m gonna take your advice as regards the helmet 👍. On the subject of your self built Strat? I’d love a photo! So my email address is in the video description, but here it is: [e-mail]

[@raydowley1038]

Nice comparison vid and guitars too Paul, but mate you need to ease off the red wine if you can hear the cat talking to you 🤣🤣

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Noted 🤣. Cheers Ray

[@mortonwilson795]

All 3 are beautiful instruments and you certainly do them justice, or they do your playing justice, or whatever 😂 I have had my eye on an American Pro II White Strat w Rosewood Fingerboard . . . on my wishlist along with an Eastman SB59/v! Having heard your 2 Oswalds and given the price (comparable with the Pro II) if I get to a point where I can splash out a bit I think I'd go for an Oswald. The Jazzmaster, in particular, just sounds amazing.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Morton, I’m delighted you like my Jazzmaster 🍻

[@karllongbottomguitars9192]

I personally find most of fenders relicing over the top, but Oswald has it downto perfection 👍

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Cheers for checking out my wee vid Karl 👍. I’m watching your guitar building career with interest 🍻

[@jeffjeff370]

wow ! youre just in line ;mark knopfler,roy buchanan, paul stafford...

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well that comment just made me smile, so thank you Jeff 🍻

[@billsedge7360]

Great video Paul, 👍🎸

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Bill

[@stratslinger3921]

Thoughts on buying a Custom Shop online? I.e unable to play first. Thinking of buying one from sight only. Many thanks for any advice Paul.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Hi Stratslinger, and sorry for late reply. Actually, I bet I’m going against popular advice here…… but I say YES! Jump in with both feet, as long as you LOVE the look and the vibe of it via the pictures. I did not get to play ANY of my guitars until I had already made the purchase. And I have had 100% success in terms of satisfaction. And if the worst comes to the worst, a Custom Shop Fender or Gibson should have good resale.

[@stratslinger3921]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 Thanks Paul, I really appreciate yr reply and am close to pulling the trigger on a Fendr CS relic’d tele! Much appreciated mate. 🇳🇿

[@graemero5532]

I have owned an over twenty year old guitar that rolled naturally over time and ended up getting rid of it because it was doing my head in, slipping off the board. I wonder what state these custom shop fender necks will be in once they have been played for twenty odd years 🤔 You should be fine Paul as you spread the playing over many guitars.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Good points you make Graemero. Yeah, I never thought about that, i.e. a custom shop neck that gets rolled from factory and then experiences 20yrs time erosion…. 🤔

[@mitcharney1]

There are at least a Dozen builders who are making guitars that match Fender's Custom Shop guitars. A lot of them are more well known than Oswald. Otherwise here's what happens. Because of legendary history, 8 out of 10 people who are going to pay above $3,000.00 are going to buy a Fender. There are multiple builders in the Custom Shop and some of them are 3 years backordered for instruments. There have been guitar companies who have come and gone or have sold out who could make a guitar as good. It's the player not the guitar.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Fair points mitcharney.

[@modularsketch]

After one and a half decades of GASing and hunting great guitars and synths for now I would choose more play on guitar , less work (more work = more money for instruments). Fender MIJ (500usd) line is good enough to provide great sound

[@Sammywhat]

Tobias has nothing on you my good man! Lovely! What is the scale of the neck on that Jazzmaster? Does it play like the Strat? or more like a Gibson?

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Hi Sammywhat, and sorry for late reply. It’s a 25,5 inches and so it feels more like a Strat than a Gibson. However, maybe it’s just the way I’ve got it set up (flats and down-tuned), but it feels very unique. For example I’ve no desire to dig in and play aggressively….. and I’m even reluctant to use vibrato when playing it. It’s all very unique. And yet I absolutely love it.

[@Sammywhat]

Thank you for your gracious reply! No worries on the lateness. I'm just thankful to hear from you regarding this gem of a guitar. I've always been a fan, but being left handed, I've never had the privilege of playing one. Yet. @@paulstaffordcook8799

[@Baci302]

Chandler talks a lot of sense.😂

[@aminahmed2220]

What a fantastic video have a good weekend Paul also what is your favorite guitar 😊

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks aminahmed 👍. And to answer your question, as to my personal favourite? That’s easy. My sunburst ‘59 reissue Les Paul. It’s everything I wanted as a child and I just love it.

[@ewal8556]

Hello Paul, great video as usual. The LP 8; the background has caught my eye. The finish seems like an ‘aged’ gloss rather than shiny mirror finish. If so, did you do it yourself, again if so how did you get the finish to look so nice?

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Hi Ewal, and sorry for late reply. Yes, I’m delighted you noticed the finishing on my Les Paul hanging on the wall. I’m kind of embarrassed to explain why it looks the way it does. And yet I’m kinda proud of the results of my work. Basically it’s a custom shop ‘59 reissue, not aged or Murphy Lab. Just a normal R9 in gloss. You can see just how glossy it looked 5yrs ago on this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWmrlKSfn994qassi=O0CjxKx4wHRMEFLQ I have subjected this guitar to direct sunlight. Literally lying it on my back lawn for a couple of hours at a time during 5 Scottish summers. Each summer fades it more and more. I protect the neck / fingerboard by wrapping a white towel round it, to avoid warping / fret sprout etc. But the body takes the full brunt of the sunlight. Add some very fine wire wool on key areas, plus the use of aggressive T-Cut, used as a polish. Then some rounds of hair dryer / compressed air to crack the lacquer. And voila! It really looks and feels old. It’s my no.1 guitar ❤️

[@ewal8556]

@@paulstaffordcook8799 thanks, it’s great that all that effort has paid off. It’s a stunner. If it plays as good as it looks I can understand why it’s No1. I think when you find that one it’s great. I am a tele person at heart but recently picked up a 79 LP, and playing it just clicked. Never had any love for the LPs I’ve tried previously but this one is the LP for me.

[@Paul-D]

Ive played Dave Simpsons red oswald and it was superb. I know id love to order one when the time comes to go custom shop level on a fender type guitar. But being brutally honest i dont think ive got the required maturity and patience to wait a year 😂

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Paul (and sorry for late reply) . That’s interesting that you’ve played Dave’s red Oswald. Yeah, that’s a cool looking guitar! Anyway, cheers Paul

[@jwilkinson341]

The Fender will always be easier to sell and hold its value better.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Fair point.

[@johnnyway8667]

Did you ask for angled neck pocket in your OJ? If yes, what degree did you use? Thank you.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Great question! I watch Puisheen’s excellent KZbin channel. As one of the world’s expert off-set guitar techs he constantly reminds us to use a neck shim. However, I decided to let Nick just make all his own decisions as to the playability of the guitar. Consequently, neither of us has made any mention of a shim or angled neck pocket. So I’ve no idea whether or not this has one. And this guitar plays beautifully.

[@allanbrassington2160]

Hi Paul, these guitars look great and I am looking to spec one for myself. I was wondering if you were stung by import duty and VAT with these being imported from the EU? Thanks.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Hi Allan, good question. That’s a no as regards the Jazzmaster and a yes as regards the Strat (around £120). So there appears to be no rhyme or reason. Just the luck of the draw….

[@jameslawlor6125]

You should be making a living with your guitar skills, on some level. Sometimes I watch and want to light the next barbecue with my guitars. 👍🎸

[@ianthomas4568]

I personally think you’re getting a masterbuilt guitar for a fraction of the price! I’ve had custom shops but they couldn’t hold a candle to my Bravewood guitars!

[@pangea2003]

no floating trem on the strat? ummm... it would be nice to see an Oswald with floating trem and see how that compares to a cs..

[@mikesmithwick1570]

Fabulous video Paul, inspiring playing as always, and even though I'm not into relicing, that guitar porn at the end had me needing a cold shower 😥!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Mike 👍

[@simpsimpson5175]

Buy a 1980s Tokai SS60 or Fernandes.. lawsuit strats hugely undervalued

[@marygaleac]

Hmmmm…..3years for a Jaydee Iommi…..then again….you are probably buying the most beautifully crafted guitar money can buy……and half the price of your Custom Shops……and your cat is right…..😂….have a 93 MIJ ReIssue 54 Strat…..first Strat in all my years…..looks like a Strat…sounds like a Strat….£650……but keep up the videos…..even tho the mighty SG never gets a look in…..but still watching you from Morningside👍 best wishes

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks Marygaleac. Yeah, I just can’t get on board with SGs….. maybe it’s those devilish horns….

[@neilhawkins1]

Your “Self indulgence “is why people click your bait,long may it continue.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Well thank you Neil 👍

[@JazzGuitarFan72]

Please, do self indulge as often as you like. Very nice beautiful playing!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you sir, I appreciate that 👍

[@Tstdycgyr]

I have upwards of 20 guitars. From CS Gibson to good quality Squires. From numerous makers. The best is a Fender , Butterscotch 52 Vintera, with CS pickips. It cost €550 secondhand , a brilliant guitar. I know about guitars and good sounds and a sideman for a world known band totally agrees, you dont need to spend big money. And the same goes for pedals, dont be fooled by YT videos, crazy money is being paid for pedals. For amps get a good one and stick with it.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

I like your words. Cheers for watching 👍

[@Baci302]

Is that ash on the Strat?

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Hi Baci. Yes, lightweight swamp ash. I just love looking at it.

[@derekjohnson5720]

I honestly don't think fender custom shops are worth the money big yin. The name on the headstock seems to doop people into thinking it's some sort of mythical guitar. For example, if you got a Fender master builder to build a strat but change the headstock shape and put s-type on the headstock and put it in a shop for £300 and no one knew who it was built by. No one would entertain it. I'm a Fender fan boy but after playing my pals Sire S7 i will never pay stupid money for an American fender again. His S7 neck actually felt better than my pro 2, i was blown away by the £500 Sire!!

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Hi Derek. Thanks for the info on the Sire! I’ll do some KZbin-ing over the weekend to get up to speed on that brand 🍻

[@johndodson4527]

Tonemaster

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thank you so much John 👍

[@bryanp8010]

Not even close. Nick does strats okay but beyond that I was EXTREMELY disappointed! And I mean okay; not near custom shop. I had him do a few strats and they were okay reliced replicas. I then ordered a dream project, waited a year and it was a total disaster. Quality was horrible, dented, no clear coating, the scale was so screwed up my local luthier couldn’t fix it without removing the bridge, filling the holes and relocating it. Intonation was a joke. Because the scale was off it wouldn’t intonate. I specified that I didn’t want typical SG neck dive and it ended up being the worst dive I’ve ever experienced. The electrics were wired backwards. The luthier had a field day fixing the mess. If Nick was local I’d probably beat him over the head with it because after a year and all the $ I was pissed.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

That’s useful feedback Bryan. Sorry to hear you had a poor experience……

[@bluespower1961]

Wow! As a proud owner of a shell pink Oswald strat. I agree. Im playin as we speak,.And I bought because of Paul . You must be patient tho. And im sure because of this video you just added 6 months to wait time. LOL.

[@paulstaffordcook8799]

Thanks bluespower, and congrats on your Oswald. 🍻

[@bluespower1961]

Paul, You have been on buying spree! You hit the lottery. Im so jealous of your gear. It is Killa. Udaman. GC