Strandberg Guitar Initial Impressions

[@andrefludd]

1) Don't forget this video is just initial impressions. I have other videos in the series including a 1 hour conclusion :). 2) Frame rate/sync issues will be fixed moving forward.

[@joeydunno]

Speaking for myself I absolutely love the long form videos sir !!! Going in depth is always a good thing for us gear nuts !! Have a happy new year !!

[@andrefludd]

@@joeydunno I enjoy it too, but I also have 4 more episodes coming haha. I should probably pace myself. Happy new year to you too!

[@smeagol7247]

People focus to much on guitars and not enough on speakers and amps. I bought a piece of crap squire to my mates place hooked it up to a jcm 800 and it sounded amazing. A great guitar makes a difference in terms of tuning stability and usually has a Floyd rose , which stays in tune better when using the whammy bar. If guitars define genres why do so many famous blues/ rock players use Flying V like Albert king and jimmy Hendrix.

[@andrefludd]

@@smeagol7247 I agree speakers and amps make a HUGE difference in terms of tone. But you'll also notice I barely discuss tone. I'm focusing mostly on how the guitar feels, how comfortable it is, etc. Amps and speakers can't impact how your hands feel on an instrument.

[@smeagol7247]

@@andrefludd I think your guitar looks amazing to play and think it’s great instrument. I wasn’t saying you don’t know what you are talking about in fact the complete opposite . I was trying to suggest a video idea. Guitar players claim vintage guitars have a certain tone and feel. When it’s amps and speakers that create tone.I have noticed no major guitar channel talks about it because they have wasted tons of money on a piece of junk because it’s old. That would be a great video that would open a few peoples eyes.

[@obiwanjustpeekinginonya]

Just got a strandberg for Christmas, I have chronic back issues and it’s been such a joy to play due to its ergonomics and light weight. Now my main guitar.

[@andrefludd]

Congrats! It really is a joy to play.

[@sanjakazakov2265]

same ! My new Sara Longfield guitar just heals my back 😃

[@monitorlizard9971]

I have a bulging disk. I became depressed and hopeless and anti social. A new bed stopped my chronic pain I had for 4 years. A new guitar would probably help too though.

[@obiwanjustpeekinginonya]

@@sanjakazakov2265 it’s magic right?

[@obiwanjustpeekinginonya]

@@monitorlizard9971 well I’m glad to hear that you’re doing better, having bulging or herniated disks is awful. But awesome that the bed helped! :)

[@iLL1337]

Not sure if anyone else mentioned this, but that tremolo bridge has two different stiffness settings (not related to string gauge and spring tension). Strandberg trems are unique in that the knife edges are on bridge posts, and the fulcrum points are inside of the bridge plate. When you place the bridge onto the the posts, there are two separate fulcrum points that you can choose from. One is deeper, and one is more shallow. Depending on which you choose, the bridge will rest higher, or lower on the posts. You will experience a different amount of tremolo resistance depending on which of those two fulcrum positions you are using. Ola did a video on this many years ago, I would definitely check it out. He explains it pretty well. Moral of the story: if the bridge feels too stiff for your liking, then you are likely using the “wrong” fulcrum point in your setup. Nice video btw.

[@andrefludd]

That is very helpful. I will def look into this. I really appreciate it!

[@viperdragz4403]

@@andrefludd You may have already discovered this but you can also use two springs instead of three in the trem system. Maybe the previous owner put in 3 springs but I have a strandberg prog 7 and it came with two springs installed and a third as an extra add on to add more tension.

[@Reiilmao]

Can please you link the video? I can’t find it anywhere :(

[@iLL1337]

@@Reiilmao Sure, here it is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKikpJaBeNVofs0

[@Cameronwesleyy]

As a guitarist who is also trying getting sponsorships with guitar brands, I love the attention to detail in your content. You’re incredibly gifted at your craft and I cannot wait to see you keep killing it!

[@andrefludd]

I appreciate that. Thank you and best of luck to you as well.

[@mjfavata]

Wow, great video Dr Fludd! Anyone considering a Strandberg should consult this video beforehand, as you dive into topics I have not seen covered by others on KZbin. I just picked up my second Strandberg, a NX 7, and it is the most comfortable 7 string I have ever played, by far. The unique neck shape opens up a new world for me, as before I was having issues playing wider necks with my medium-sized hands. I am looking forward to your follow-up video!

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the support, I have 4-5 more planned :)

[@mingistech]

I’m in the market for a Strandberg and really appreciate the detail of this extended review. You’re going over all the small details nobody else talks about. Amazing review.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks :). Check out the rest of the series if you can

[@psychotikpaisano]

Hey. I really appreciate the in depth dive into these guitars, I wish all guitar reviews were like this! You've earned my subscription, nice work!

[@chichili5ways]

Dude its so cool to see that you have narrowed your scope and found your thing. Really excited to see what comes this year.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@ShadowhandofDune]

As far as the string ends at the nut, you can string it up and leave a bit of slack on the tuner, then loosen the nut to let the sharp end slip down to where it isn't exposed anymore then tighten and tune to pitch. Kiesel has a video on their channel showing how to do it.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks!

[@Barflew1]

Have an Osiris and a Prog.Both have their Strengths.The Kiesel has a Tung Oiled neck and fretboard.Never played on a faster neck than the Kiesel.And I had a Parker Mojo at 1 time.That nearly played itself.Endure neck profile and the Strandberg trem are great.And great for playing in a classical position.Which I never did before the Strandberg.And the Suhr pick-ups have a lot of sounds.Thanks Andre for the Deep Dive and coming episodes..Happy New Year.

[@TheTargetedScapegoat]

I just have to add that the way you use your tremolo - your control of the dynamic range that you engage with it makes it sound like a pedal. I realize you aren’t playing the way you would in a performance, but omg. Your jazz progressions are brilliant and satisfying to hear. I’ve been playing my whole life, but I have split my time with drums and other production tools and am known more for visual art - def subscribing.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :). I really appreciate that. Rhythm guitar level 1-4 teaches my method in a very simple methodical way :). It also comes with my right hand and rhythm course which explains my trem use. Samples on my website!

[@middaymeds]

Always been interested in this brand despite having never played one, cool idea for a video series

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@kyle_wagner_music]

the details matter, thanks for diving into all the aspects of this guitar (the locking tuner "head", the neck, zero-fret, sloping frets, trem, etc.)! looks and sounds like an amazing guitar.

[@markuyehara7880]

The series looks to be everything I hoped for. Documenting your opinion of the instrument as it evolves with playing time is entertaining and informative in a way no "summary" review could be. This is something every gear junkie would want to watch. I also have recently purchased a Strandberg (NX 6 Metal) and agree that it seems to vibrato very well. In addition to the factors you mentioned, I'd add that the upright playing position when seated seems to assist it as well. Having the pivot point at the end of the guitar seems to make for a more controlled "shake" during vibrato as opposed to the more seesawing motion of a traditional guitar.

[@andrefludd]

I agree 100% I discuss this in episode 2.

[@fr0hnzie]

i bought my first strandberg last year. at first it felt like i was holding a toy it was so light but that endurneck feels incredible. love 'em

[@andrefludd]

Yes! It does feel strangely small at first but I do really like that aspect.

[@Kurtis-Schubert]

Really interesting breakdown Andre. I like Plini's music a lot and know he plays his Strandberg. I think he said he has never owned an amp! Looking forward to more fun music in 2023.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the support :)

[@DanaVastman]

You're one of the LUCKY few! When The Fusion Neck-Thru with MF pickups was cancelled I was crushed... Then one came in two weeks after all orders were cancelled...I GOT IT! A dream come true❤️. The Trans Teal is pure bliss

[@andrefludd]

It’s a great guitar

[@matthewjohnloren1995]

That "the notes getting to your ears faster" phenomenon was also experienced by cory wong and nile rodgers on their signature guitars. Interestingly, they both requested slightly smaller bodies on their signature guitars which resulted in that "the notes getting to your ears faster" thing. Watch the Cory Wong interview with sweetwater along with Don Carr they talk about this in more detail. The whole concept at this point is arbitrary at best but i say what feels good makes us play better.

[@andrefludd]

That's really strange. I actually remember that Wong video and I rolled my eyes when he said it. Idk maybe there's something to it after all.

[@andrefludd]

@@davidfaustino4476 it’s a bit more complicated than that. There’s a lot of complex physics involved plus the added complexity of human perception.

[@lukaslmguitarcorner]

Love the dedication you put into this video series. Been watching a couple of your videos over the last weeks and finally subscribed.

[@andrefludd]

Glad you like them and thanks so much for the support :).

[@lukaslmguitarcorner]

@@andrefludd you're welcome! I'm also a Strandberg owner, I have a Boden Standard 6 Trem. I adjusted faster to the Endurneck than to the fanned frets 😅 I've only played guitars with normal/parallel frets before

[@garygrinkevich6971]

Love the sound of the middle pickup on a HSH guitar very nice to have a comprehensive overview for advanced playing on guitar models; there isn't really anyone covering this style of reviews on youtube. most other channels are retailers and/or play a less demanding style don't perceive things the way technical players do.

[@andrefludd]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the support

[@tylerm8145]

Immediacy is a good word for it too. I'd probably use responsive or maybe dynamic, but that's just another synonym in the bag! Awesome review man - thanks for the crazy level of detail that a lot of reviewers wouldn't think to share or perhaps even notice.

[@andrefludd]

My pleasure

[@stevelowery4764]

Kiesel vaders come standard with a 20” radius, neck thru bodies, a floating bridge, and you can spec out a thicker neck profile, chambered body, HSS or HSS pickup configuration, fanned frets, fretboard & body wood, etc. Why not try one of those? Skervesen & Halo as well if you can find a used one and don’t want to order a custom. Nice job with the new direction of your channel btw. The long form reviews are super insightful and really set you apart from the other channels out there.

[@andrefludd]

I’ve had 3 vaders. I’ll explain why I didn’t keep them in the next vid. But they are my exclusive guitars for 2-3 years.

[@DanaVastman]

Twice as heavy! My fusion neck thru is only 4.3 lbs... Bliss!

[@Crenom]

I just returned a Ichi 10 (on a restock loss lol). And now Im considering a 6k nachocaster 🤦‍♂️is it so hard to get a new guitar that isnt hot doodoo

[@mandanglelow1442]

String for string, I find Keisel to be the best guitars available when all things are considered. I've owned many top tier guitars, many of which were outrageously over priced. Keisel has variety, customization, quality, sound, style and bang for the buck and its an all American company.

[@twobarsfourstars]

This format is brilliant, perfect fit for your style!! Interesting video, even not being interested in a headless still really enjoyed it and learned a lot. Looking forward to the whole series and everything else you’ve got coming this year! Also I’m sure there’s copyright involved but your playing is fantastic and can always go for more of it. Happy New Year!

[@andrefludd]

Happy new year thank you!

[@williammartinez9906]

The birds eye on that fretboard is really nice. Thanks for the re stringing idea for the Boden.

[@andrefludd]

My pleasure.

[@richiedollabillz]

Yo doc, I've been perusing guitar vids on KZbin since the beginning of KZbin and you've got one of the best channels by far!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you!

[@normbarrows]

These videos are SO helpful when it comes to refining my guitar designs. I always suspected the Endure neck design required a slightly thicker profile to accommodate both the diagonal bevels and the truss rod channel. 24mm is definitely a bit thicker than your modern thin neck (

[@_rafael_b]

Hi Andre! That was super interesting! I have a lot of experience playing many brands of guitars but, I've never played a guitar with fan frets. You answered so many questions that I had including how it affects the positioning of your playing hand which is something that I'm currently working on. I've watched other KZbinrs playing fan fret guitars, but they've never gone this in depth about it. This guitar has the zero fret at the nut. If I were to play a fan fret, I think that this setup would be my ideal entry point as opposed to a more extreme fan fret setup with the zero fret as the 9th or the 12th fret like the Ormsby guitars that KDH plays. I don't know exactly how much I would really like it, but I guess you never know until you try. I found the pickup switching config a bit too clever by half, but that's just my personal taste as I prefer much simpler options there. I once asked my luthier about making one of the knobs on my SG a master volume for both pickups. I didn't go thru with it but yeah, the Telecaster is my ideal config when it comes to switching so I guess that you can see where my head is at there. I am curious to hear how the pickups respond to drive with the volume knob though. By that, I mean how they clean up by backing off on the volume. I really enjoyed the video man. It was great to see such an in-depth deep dive on a guitar that I'm not actually familiar with. Everyone does Fenders, Gibsons, PRS, etc. Or they do like-minded boutique guitars. Not everyone does Strandbergs. That was different and well worth the watch. I'm looking forward to the next installment and I hope you have a very Happy New Year. Cheers Andre! ✌

[@andrefludd]

Hey man! Yes, fanned frets are weird because every company does it differently. I tried Kiesel’s fan and didn’t like it at all. This fan feels fine to me in comparison. I really think that since a lot of the fanned fret lovers play most metal it makes sense. They aren’t playing the types of chords and shapes I am so I doubt the fan would bother them. I’ll def try to show how they pickups clean up. I have a new amp coming soon that will be great for that demo. Thanks for the support! Always nice seeing you here.

[@erikedgerton1669]

I watch a lot of your videos and you are very detailed. Guitar makers should definitely sponsor or have you critique their instruments.

[@jakehackett6280]

Another way around the pointy string ends at the nut is to lock the string down slightly so it doesn’t slip, clip the string as close to the locking mechanism as possible, then pull the string back slightly into the locking mechanism and clamp it down. I don’t have experience with Strandbergs, but this helped with my Kiesel Vader.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for that!

[@lunamatic9775]

You've already answered most of my questions about the Endureneck. I thought it was mainly for 7 string playing but it sounds like it works for 6 as well. (No idea where I got that impression). Looking forward to the next video! Have a great new year!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :). I got it up in time for you haha.

[@lunamatic9775]

@@andrefludd It was the perfect morning, believe me!

[@vancesnyder2426]

As an older player used to playing a Strat, I kinda think that anything that cost's 2000 + should be flawless. You always have your Danelectro guitar on set and you seem to be happier with that than other expensive exotic guitars. The Strandberg seems like a high quality instrument.

[@andrefludd]

Agreed!

[@lueysixty-six7300]

Why? Strats certainly aren't "perfect"!

[@vancesnyder2426]

@@lueysixty-six7300 I did not say "perfect" I spent 1700.00 on a 1950's reissue Strat and it is close to being 'flawless'.

[@kevinp_25]

$2000 is the new $1000

[@vancesnyder2426]

@@kevinp_25 ain't that the truth. + 10% tax

[@1230FUN]

A kiesel build would be a awesome little series to do in the future.

[@andrefludd]

I’ve had 4 kiesels already I shoulda documented that back in the day. Maybe later this year. I love the company.

[@ibanezrg7421]

Your reviews are truly on another level. Thanks for being so detailed. Sub'd / liked!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@hawkcrossfamily]

Great in depth review. This guitar being so different, really helps potential buyers understand the unique features of the guitar. Can't wait for next episode.

[@andrefludd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gabrielr4329]

I’m fortunate enough to own several Strandberg guitars, including the Plini neck-through, but I must say, the neck on the prog 7 is just incredible to me, having the slightly wider endurneck is a very different experience imo. I come from a classical guitar background so it may have something to do with it. Great content btw.

[@andrefludd]

I'm not really a 7 string guy...yet...but maybe in the future!

[@gabrielr4329]

@@andrefluddI usually don’t use the 7th string either, but it’s become my main guitar just because the neck is so comfortable and feels great in my hands

[@andrefludd]

@@gabrielr4329 expect a shoutout in the 7 string video. You just convinced me to get one to try.

[@Monkeymansdrums]

Got 8 string for myself. Basically the most comfortable 8 string I ever played because of the neck profile and width

[@ibanezman1025]

This was a fantastic and thorough review! Subscribed!

[@christophercatoya6323]

Really glad to see you doing these deep dives. Had a similar fatigue experience with the Boden Original 8, and now it's my favorite. I think the extended range helps with some of the fretboard and position marker spacing issues you noted. Now my 6 string's neck feels way too small. Funny how that happens.

[@andrefludd]

Glad you enjoy it! Thanks for sharing. I won't be trying 8 strings but I do have a 7.

[@bl00dy1ng]

Your channel keeps getting better man! Keep it up, love it

[@andrefludd]

Appreciate it!

[@syukoshiomy]

love this style of review and love how articulate you are with how you describe your preferences and what you like and dislike about stuff. super excited for more about this guitar! strandbergs are beautiful and weird as hell and i feel like for as divisive they can be they're going to be the next "classic" guitar in the canon so to speak

[@andrefludd]

Agreed! Thanks for the support

[@kevinp_25]

Love my 2018 Fusion with bolt on neck. I also have three newer NX models so clearly I'm a fan. They're not perfect (I'm not sure such a thing exists) but I very much enjoy mine. Subbed and looking forward to the rest of the series.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the the support!

[@KazzArie]

1:54 tap early tap often 🤙 Great review. A bjj friend is getting into guitar, I still have three, and getting re-interested after a long hiatus. The design and ergos of strandberg are super appealing.

[@davidmultimedia2024]

Dude, I totally get what you mean by the ''immidiacy'' of the pickups. I had this feeling when I first got my Ibanez MM1 (Martin Milers's AZ model). The Seymour Duncan Hyperion pickups gave me this exact impression, especially compared to my Bare Knuckle Juggernauts pickups, which are very tight, but a little more ''spongy''. Although, this has nothing to do with delay/latency... they all bring sound instantly. This feeling has to do with the dynamic range of the pickups. In fact, it's not the dynamic range itself (both sets are very dynamic), but it's more about the distribution of the dynamic range. Some pickups will react stronger with less pick effort than others, giving the impression that they react faster. For instance, the SD Hyperion pickups are extremely dynamic/poky, but it is still very easy to get a high velocity sound out of them when picking smoothly, and if you want them to whisper, you have to pick extremely softly. On the other hand, the BKP Juggernauts are also very dynamic, but it's very easy to get low velocity sounds (you don't have to play that softly), but when you dig in the strings, they get very aggresive. I believe that's what you're describing here. DC resistance and coil winding techniques may also play a role here. I don't hear the single coil sound that you're talking about with the neck pickup though... it totally sounds like a humbucker to me (darker, beefier and very jazzy) with both pick and fingers.

[@D4veJap4n]

Strandberg pickups even the in house pickups are absolutely amazing. They have staccato from outer space. Honestly

[@andrefludd]

Agreed

[@anthonydratnal1870]

I'm brand new to your channel and loving the attention to detail - we have quite different tastes in guitars, which is making the depth of your analysis that much more valuable to me. A suggestion for protruding string ends: if you get a pair of end cutters/end cutting pliers, you'll be able to cut right at the edge of the tuner and save yourself from having to mark and release the strings to cut them.

[@andrefludd]

Oh that’s a great idea thanks!

[@pzuliomaccavellion9711]

Fantastic review! Or perhaps... Another fantastic review! So comprehensive, covers every question I might have! Cheers

[@andrefludd]

Glad it was helpful! But there is much more to come :)

[@SHKEVE]

great to see you reviewing a strandberg! I’m completely sold on them and i just added a boden J7 to my collection.

[@andrefludd]

Congrats!

[@andrefludd]

Checkout My best-selling teach yourself course: www.andrefludd.com/one-course-to-make-you-intermediate

[@parsa8941]

That's a fantastic idea for a series

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@tylerjameskronberger9895]

This is exactly the sort of guitar review I want. After trying many I landed on the strandberg prog 7. Only regret was not going for the neck through fusion model. I'm looking forward to more videos in this strandberg series, this might be the first you tube Chanel I turn notifications on. I'd love an in depth review of the two post height tremelo configurations, for 2 years I've only had mine in the lower position so I have less sonic range but I imagine there is greater tuning stability for whatever reason. Additionally I had a plan to go with a custom aristides as my end all dream guitar, but you briefly mentioned it wasn't right for you. Please elaborate on that in the future I need to be more educated via someone like you before I can spring for an aristedes.

[@andrefludd]

Both of these are coming! Thanks for checking out the series. I will say, I loved everything about the Aristides except the neck. I just wanted it a little more chunky. But other than that, that guitar was one of the best I ever tried. The trem was also amazing. Well worth the money. Imo

[@mlite84]

Wow, amazing review Andre. I also have hand/should issues and have been toying with thee idea of buying a Strandberg. This is the best review I’ve seen on KZbin, and I’ve watched alottt. Anyways, thanks man! I’m subscribed and will be looking forward to digging into your channel!

[@andrefludd]

My pleasure!

[@ernieb3626]

I think I like the format for this Doc. I also like the refreshing small comedy breakthru lol,(writing on screen etc.) I have played a stranberg briefly and liked it, just feels strange without a headstock. That being said I could get one some day. You really have created a new "Deep Dive" . I did like the neck

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the support, Ernie.

[@Deathslinger666]

Really appreciate the effort that was put in this video. Good job really enjoyed it!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@feidias1706]

Great video man! I like that you talk about things that no one else in other reviews does. I have to say, i have an ormsby guitar that is also fanfret (25,5-27,5) and it was much harder for the eyes than the fingers. I got used to it very fast. Looking forward to the other videos of this series. Cheers from Germany

[@andrefludd]

Thanks!

[@FrumpyPumpkin]

Great job! This is a wonderful review.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you!

[@VoodooDewey69]

Great review ,keep em coming .

[@andrefludd]

Will do!

[@william2532]

Thank you for making a review with the complaints that real guitarists notice and care about!

[@andrefludd]

My pleasure

[@luxserpentis]

36:39 I checked my phone 'cause I thought it went off XD Great video, love how in depth you get with the Endurneck!

[@andrefludd]

Even more depth coming too

[@MajorDook1]

Fantastic video. Really enjoyed this. Subscribed 🙂

[@andrefludd]

Thank you

[@Lectwar6]

I think people have bought way too much into thin necks because of 90s shredders and ibanez. I was a diehard fan of that neck profile for years until I got older and learned that a different radius and neck thickness works for me better. Like you, I have wrist issues in both my hands. A thicker neck made my left hands pain more managable, and a thicker pick/plectrum (like 8mm or more) has made my picking hand FAR more relaxed.

[@andrefludd]

Agreed!

[@greghitt1704]

Very unhappy to hear the neck through fusions were cancelled. I was holding out for one of those in the teal just like you have. Beautiful instrument as is your approach to this review series - well done Sir!

[@andrefludd]

I bet you’ll find one used if you’re patient :). Thanks for the support

[@TreWatsonMusic]

You know the slogan: Feel better, Sound better!

[@andrefludd]

Absolutely. Great channel and voice!

[@TreWatsonMusic]

@@andrefludd thanks so much!

[@Emrys345_Guitar]

I'm loving this series since I recently started to feel drawn to headless guitars. I'm a huge fan of HSS and curious as to your preference for the hsh.

[@picksalot1]

I'm enjoying your detailed dive in the features of the Strandberg guitar. As you probably know, Natural Harmonics are located above the string nodes. If a pickup is angled differently than the frets, then some harmonics will not line up over the frets. Depending on the pickup location, type, and width, some harmonics may be unequal in volume. This will typically be more noticeable on single coil width pickups. Have you noticed anything regarding this on the Multi-Scale/Fan fret guitar?

[@andrefludd]

I haven’t noticed harmonics being any different.

[@kellyhinkelman8591]

Great info thanks for your dedication and commitment towards excellence, not many are like us,but just enough ,ha ha .

[@tylerk1013]

Love it! Thanks so much for this video.

[@andrefludd]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@NBA2050]

Great review!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you

[@nigeldaddyo]

Over the past year I’ve come really close to buying a Salen online but always paused because of their neck design. Recently tried one in person and glad I waited because I didn’t like the neck at all. Obviously this is personal preference. Still always good to see someone making guitars that aren’t clones of some old design.

[@andrefludd]

Agreed 100%. I love when people push the design forward even if it isn’t my preference.

[@zipperhead101]

Hello, we've not met. Thank you, sir for putting up this awesome review. I am working on a buying decision right now and it involves this one and an Ibanez or two.

[@tjkenn]

Thank you for THE most comprehensive review of Strandberg guitars. I have been playing one for about 9 months, the Salen Jazz NX model. I have arthritis in my thumbs and I was hoping that the combination of the Enduro Neck, the light weight of the guitar and the enforced good posture might help. It is much easier on my hands, primarily of course on my left, fretting hand. I noticed some of the same things you mentioned about the fanned frets creating fingering problems further up the neck. Not a deal breaker for me given my ability to play longer and more comfortably. It is my main instrument. I play blues, western swing, and some classic rock. I really appreciate your efforts. Just sayin'.

[@andrefludd]

Glad you like it. Did you check out the entire series? This is just episode 1 :)

[@tjkenn]

@@andrefludd I have yet to watch it all, but have seen "Not the Neck." More excellent observations about Strandbergs.

[@tjkenn]

The interviews with the other musicians who play them offered other perspectives, which I enjoyed. It was Keith at 5 Watt World that convinced me to try a Strandberg. I was surprised to find out that 2 of the 3 go back and forth with PRS instruments. I once owned a beautiful PRS, I think it was a CE 2, but I never bonded with the instrument.

[@ZL1LoVeR]

Happy New Year Andre! I really dig how modern Strandbergs are… I used to hate the headless look, but I can’t deny how beautiful these look that now I’m GASsing for a 7 string 😂

[@andrefludd]

And so it begins! Haha. I hope you get it. Happy new year to you too!

[@thegardner18]

Needing a 7 string was my gateway drug for my first Strandberg. It was so awesome that I had to grab one of their 6 strings too just to try it. You won’t be disappointed!

[@ZL1LoVeR]

@@thegardner18 it’s definitely more a question of want for me 😂 I already have a Schecter 7 string so I definitely don’t need another... but do I want one more? Always 😁

[@boscoserranovelasco3302]

This video is super well done, congrats Andre!! Here are my questions of the strandberg that you may answer in the following episodes: 1. How does the guitar feel and sound for blues and funk? 2. How does the middle single coil pickup sound in comparison to a Fender strat middle pickup? (PS: Im not necessarily asking for an audio comparison of the two pickups but more your opinion based on your experience playing this guitar and different strats) Thanks!

[@andrefludd]

I can answer 2, you can’t activate the middle pickup. I’ll do some funky bluesy stuff in the next video to answer the other q.

[@boscoserranovelasco3302]

@@andrefludd What a pitty I love the middle pickup sound on a strat. I've looked in the strandberd website and there are some models that have the middle pickup option like the hss boden standard. Im looking forward for the next episodes in the series, thanks Andre!

[@Reny_btw]

28:30 I think it's because the volume knob is parallel to bridge so you instinctively don't hit it. I remember a guitar builder talking about placing volume knobs parallel to the bridge for that reason, although he builds non-fanned guitars so it would be further back to the body on his guitars.

[@andrefludd]

Maybe that is it.

[@wonder1908]

I feel the same. Very direct response!

[@jaema8281]

I don't think guitar videos are allowed to be this quality... The easiest sub of my life.

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :).

[@Quinceps]

Cool vibratos there! It’s nice to know that some necks enhance your grip there. Ever since I got my vintage guitar, vibratos and bends have just got more difficult for me. The thumb just won’t settle.

[@andrefludd]

I totally understand

[@MelodyMaker218]

Great video, thanks

[@andrefludd]

Thank you

[@zaidanp7258]

Idk why I always think headless guitar are only good for Fusion/Prog/Metal thing, but dan those things are versatile af when it comes to playing all kinds of music!

[@andrefludd]

Yea. I think it would be a great move for one of these headless companies to sign a blues or country guy. Just like how Kiesel signed Hiland. Smart.

[@guitrr]

I play a lot of slide in a Blues band, using a Strandberg. Works great!

[@smeagol7247]

People have visions in there head oh Flying V for metal Stratocaster for pop/rock and Gibson sg for hard rock but actually what defines the tone of a musical genre are amps and speakers I plugged my single coil piece of crap squire to my mates jcm 800 and it’s a metal monster. People need to stop thinking Telecaster for country and this for that and focus on what do I want people to feel with my music and buy amps/pedals and speakers accordingly

[@fatboysgarage7984]

The SE Mark Holcomb signature has a thick neck and flat fretboard. To me, it's the most comfortable guitar I've ever played. If I had the money, one of those would be my go to guitar.

[@andrefludd]

I’ll try it for sure

[@gregfender]

Awesome video, dude! New subscriber here. Thanks for all you do!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you for the support :)

[@drabbster]

Just bought a Boden Prog yesterday, since I got a mail that Strandberg were raising prices in January and was really close to getting one soon anyway. So far I really feel that the Endurneck can help me with my legato-technique. not sure how it will help me with sweeps, but the nice stainless steel frets and the ergnonomics in general make me feel quite confident! I do have to say, though, that for my ideal position, the top strap button is in the way and digging a little into my chest, though. and if I'm sure that I will basically never ever sell the guitar, I will probably try to relocate it.

[@andrefludd]

Interesting. So far I’m okay with the strap button. Where would you move it to?

[@drabbster]

@@andrefludd up on top of the horn, where all my other guitars have it, and in general most do. But I don't wanna drill into it, even though I'm already eyeing Fluence Moderns, which would also probably require small mods to the body... we'll see :D But the thing with the horn is tricky to do, without knowing the thickness of the wall with that chambering. If the wood would rip out I think I'd cry. :'D

[@brodyforet]

Been looking into these guitars for a while now and your review really helped. Too bad they don’t produce the finish that is on the model in this video because that color is sick!

[@chrismello1915]

Remove the set screw for the tremolo arm. Put a small amount of locktite (blue removable kind) on the threads and re-insert. Wait about 10 minutes and that may help keep the screw from loosing. I believe it will work with a screw that small.

[@andrefludd]

Thanks I’ll give it a try

[@703ltrain]

Put a tiny bit of blue locktite on the screw for the trem arm adjustment and it will stay at the tension you like

[@andrefludd]

I’m going to try that thanks

[@effectosis742]

That was very insightful and indepth... but also I can see big progress on quality of video. Time to subscribe you

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :)

[@d3w4yn3]

I think what you are hearing that feels like immediacy is the true temperament. You aren't waiting for the second or later tones, but are getting the primary.

[@d3w4yn3]

On another topic.... man, you do amazing reviews!!! I'm a details kind of a guy (probably ADHD on my part) but you hit everything that I could ever think of, and nobody else out there does that for us!!!

[@d3w4yn3]

Wait, wait.... just realized, this isn't the true temperament, my bad.

[@joekras699]

Hi Andre, have you tried the Ibanez QX series ? It is affordable and has a lot of modern playability specs, I love my QX52. Headless, Jumbo EVO gold frets, flat 20” radius and a very small multiscale fret span. You might prefer the plain Q with a fatter neck. Thanks Joe K.

[@andrefludd]

I talk about it in Friday’s video!

[@joekras699]

@@andrefludd cool hope you liked it

[@kelvinklauck]

Wait, you like thicker necks, good trems, upper fret acess and versatile pickup options, have you tried a red special yet? (The one with the original trem, not the 2 point one)

[@valgrind84]

Very accurate review!👍🏻

[@andrefludd]

Thanks! 👍

[@meeze_]

If you flip the guitar strap. The other end can be removed and turned over for the inside upper horn strap button.

[@andrefludd]

I’ll give that a try thanks

[@FoiMal123]

Strandberg will put out a 7 string, new Per Nilsson signature guitar. It has a little bit thinner endurneck, but it has the corners rounded off. First of its kind. Check it out if you can when it comes out.

[@andrefludd]

Sounds awesome.

[@EvilDragon666]

I thought the Endurneck profile was made specifically to guide your thumb to The Only Right Position it ever needs to be in, but then I see you putting your thumb above the ridge? Also saw Rabea basically doing the Hendrix thumb over neck thing with it and that just looked a bit painful (but Rabea IS a bit of a larger bloke with larger hands). Loving these impressions, keep them coming!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you :). There’s def no 1 thumb position for everything in every context. Even if I stay in the same position of the neck, my thumb needs to shift depending on if I’m playing chords, or single lines etc. thumb over style isn’t my thing, but when I do grip the full neck with my thumb over for vibrato or bends it feels totally fine. But I also have largish hands (6ft tall about 190).

[@Ranch5150SkinWalker]

I like your videos man. I've been on the fence buying one of these. I'm in the market now if I can get the one I want at a good price. 🤟🏻

[@andrefludd]

Glad you are enjoying the vids :)

[@mikegossett2289]

Great video, I wish it had been posted before i bought my strandberg. That said ive come to the conclusion that Ola actually successfully reinvented the wheel on these guitars. They just dont behave like you expect from traditional guitars or even other headless platforms. Also the neck through issue is less of a problem due to the heel design at least on the new nx models (what i own). It is really a beautifully thought out concept unlike any other bolt on I have played.

[@andrefludd]

I have one coming to try!

[@mikegossett2289]

@@andrefludd ill be curious to see your thoughts in comparison.

[@micahsnyder7299]

Hi Andre, if you’re interested in thick necks, I’d recommend looking into Jericho Guitars. Their necks aren’t SUPER thick, but in my opinion they’re much thicker than the typical “modern” neck shape. It’s closer to a Gibson style neck and I quite liked the Elite model that I had. Be warned, though. Jericho builds a nice guitar for a good price, but their customer service is quite bad. I’d look for a second hard guitar if you’re interested in them.

[@andrefludd]

Cool, thanks!

[@Skeletor4753]

Glad to finally see the start of this series and I can't wait to see the rest. I'm curious what do you think of the tuners? I have spent a little time with someone else's strandberg not enough to know but I have heard several people say they wish the spacing was a bit better on strandbergs. When I played one it did look a little tight but wasn't going to be that guy changing the tuning of someone else's guitar. Also curious to hear more about your thoughts regarding the trem. There are lots of issues associated with getting a multiscale tremolo to work and with Kiesel guitars finally throwing their hat into the ring with their version of the multiscale trem last week I feel like that is going to change things a bit. I feel like the range of this Strandberg trem is quite limited no? To prevent it from running into some of these issues. My headless 8 string that was custom built has a lot of design features that were meant to be improvements on the Strandberg I'm curious how it stacks up these days. I would like to get a Strandberg at some point but as far as my 8-string needs were concerned this one has me covered. You mentioned in a previous video we could send you guitars to check out and if you would like we could set something up with this. I think it would probably be much more up your alley than any other 8 out there. It actually has a decently thick neck, especially for an 8-string and the fretboard is completely flat, no radius.

[@andrefludd]

I did also notice the trem doesn’t have much pull up range, but I didn’t mention it in the video yet because I need to make sure I spend time tweaking, researching, etc. I got a few comments with suggestions for setup so I will try them out and for sure give more detail in the future.

[@Skeletor4753]

@@andrefludd I know you had the headless aristedies, what was your reasoning for not liking it exactly? Wasn't it the neck?

[@Beadlock_]

One of the odd points about Strandberg to me (well as a recent starter guitarist) is price vs country of origin. While I don’t doubt these are fantastic, I see the comments of “why is this so highly priced for Indonesian made?” Come up a fair bit. As well, points of climate/humidity over there in Indonesia when built may have perfect fretwork but once it’s shipped over into a different climate is where fret sprout starts? Regardless, really enjoyed the video and detailed learning experience notes! Helps give much more insight into the guitar and how it plays verses some of the consumerism based reviews

[@andrefludd]

Thanks for the support. A lot of great guitars come on of Indonesia but it is def not so common to see it for $3,000.

[@orafaelorsato]

The body looks so small when compared to you hahaha! I've played a Strandberg Boden 8 once, it's absurd how smooth the neck felt, and the playability was flawless, it felt like the guitar was playing itself.

[@andrefludd]

Yea I also thought it looked strange on me when I was editing haha.

[@orafaelorsato]

@@andrefludd oh, and by the way, I don't want to sound like a jerk, so I'm sorry if you already know what I'm about to say: But the Endur neck is supposed to show where your thumb is supposed to be; in the lower frets, you should keep the tip of your thumb under the edges, while when you're on the higher frets, the tip of your thumb is supposed to be over the edges

[@jonthehermit8082]

Cool man, kinda enjoy your knitpicking. I’m just gonna stick with my head guitars. I don’t have any issues with them.

[@gimmenames9039]

Very cool video! Super thorough and informative. Playing a Sälen Classic here and while I'm just an amateur player it's the best guitar I ever had. It's a Tele that happens to be comfortable to play but still sounds like a Tele. It does offer a wider sound palette than a traditional Tele though. Check Tory Slushers videos on her Sälen. Insane stuff. The transition to the new neck and fanned fret was quick and no hand issues for me. And I too think the Endurneck feels different in a good way - espc when going back to my other guitars. Looking forward to the second episode!

[@andrefludd]

Thank you!

[@shawnbell6392]

Considering Stranberg but also looking at Ibanez. I was able to get hands on with an Ibanez at a shop and was really struck by how light this type of guitar is. for city life I like the idea of how easily transportable these would be.

[@andrefludd]

As a fellow life-long city liver I have to agree with you there!

[@pedroleal7118]

I'll probably will make one more comment but, gorgeous guitar! Congratulations!

[@pedroleal7118]

I'm the lucky owner of an Alex Machacek (Boden Fusion?. With Suhr HSH...!

[@andrefludd]

that's another awesome one!

[@pedroleal7118]

@@andrefludd Yes it is ! And I do prefer the Suhr pu's!