The suspense is KILLING me!!! Beautiful Strat, you're right - when you connect like that with a guitar you might as well snap it up because all you're going to do is think about it if you don't. Digging this epic saga!
I’m so happy for you man. Paul is a special builder, I got one of his teles that I ended up waiting 2 and a half years longer for than I’d originally planned and the thing is just phenomenal… looking forward to the next two parts!
Fun video! I have a Master Built Strat and I agree you are paying mainly for the look, feel and attention to detail. I have been thinking of getting a HSS Strat since I did a workshop with Marcus Deml, but resisted the temptation so far. Now I might just have to pull the trigger!
I've got a Todd Krause masterbuilt strat and a Paul Waller 54 tele. They are never sells. Something super special about those guitars. Those guys really know what they're doing. Congrats on the new guitar!
I'm ready for Part 3!!!! I can't believe how hooked i am on this. :-) We are relatively small population of freaks that can't stop thinking about guitars and gear.
I've been playing 2yrs so still a very novice, ivevgot 4 guitars and the missus isn't happy about that. saying I need to learn to play the 1st 1 1st, however its addictive I love it, my 4 were priced around the £500 mark I want a strat the missus said if I get another guitar she will divorce me, now that's not very nice, loving the channel 🎸🎸🎸
Haha, I could see that coming 😉 Chuffed for you pal! Totally with you on the 'badges' on the black one. You can still aspire to own an original 60's vintage one day... or maybe another Masterbuilt with a rosewood board and trem... There's always somewhere else to go! 🙂 ...looking forward to part three!
@@JamesOnGuitar tell me about it!! I have two Strats ('83 MIJ 70's reissue and a 2013 Deluxe with House of Tone 60's pickups), and there's plenty of room for more. A 50's Custom Shop Team-built is next on the list, and I know that won't be the end of it! So many neck specs to cover, never mind pickups... and one must be kept in e flat at all times 🙂It's an illness... but I don't want to be cured 😀
Good grief James, that strat is immense! Congratulations. The sound on the neck pickup is just perfect, so glassy! Anyway, I can’t stop, I’ve just seen that Episode 3 is out…
Wow, the two videos are really fantastic and convey the sheer excitement of getting a new guitar but also how every guitar does have its own feel and sound. Really surprised that you walked away from the gold SG as it sounded so sweet but equally surprised that you were also able to go back to a petrol car after having an electric car.
🤣 yeah with the car - now electric cars are inevitable part of me wanted to just enjoy an engine for a few years before going to electric forever. Also, i don’t commute to work but instead most of my driving is based on very long journeys to our house in france… so much charging to do!!
I always thought that the hard-tail Strat was going against its original design mandate. However, I do understand that desire when you connect with an instrument. It's cost me plenty over the years, but I don't regret any of the cost when I play them. Hope you continue to enjoy it. 👍🏻😁
I know what you mean - although I was surprised to read (after buying this ht) that they started as early as mid '55 - for players who wanted a more direct sound apparently. It's sure to cost more... and become even more fun over the years! cheers :)
I played a $13,000 ‘69 Strat at Carter Vintage in Nashville. Thank goodness my wife was with me to keep me from doing something rash and irresponsible. Paul from Studio Rats played a Masterbuilt that was one of the best Strats I’ve ever heard; this new Strat of yours is equally gorgeous.
James, I’ve got a real kick out of your guitar safari so far. Had a few of those adventures myself. I’ve yet to find a Fender Custom Shop or Masterbuilt that I bonded with, so I’m pretty envious. At the same time, I’m very happy for you, mate! Keep up the great work!
Omg I was cooing over this strat since it was demoed on Peach. I thought it was going to be sold instantly. Humbuckers in strats are a no … but this guitar just works. The hss suits it. Congratulations..
Hey James can you link the original peach video for this guitar, I can’t find it for looking apparently it exists according to comment in this feed …and or build no. And builder .want to get into the weeds on the specs I have just hard tailed a HSS strat for slide, really interested in this guitar. Fantastic run of videos given me gut wrench guitar gas. Congrats on the bartel, get real joy from mine. A video down the line how amp stacks up against some of your other greats with different guitars. 👍keep on trucking, nice to see your subs and views getting higher your channel is pretty unique. High end guitarist wet dream.
here you go mate: th-cam.com/video/QFB65_Rw1Rg/w-d-xo.html I was just playing it (as i have done every day!) and it is so versatile... love it! Now I still want a pre cbs standard trem strat, but this one gives me the total opposite and does it so well! thank you :)
I'm a little surprised you didn't buy your own Novo. I'm lusting after one, myself, but between the price and that year waiting time...I'm more likely to pick up a new amp first
🤔 either artistic license or because it is an oversprayed board so maybe when chipped away it looks like that? I’ll have to attest no knowledge on that!
Cheer man - just guitar straight into the Rift Aynsley Lister! The room there makes everything sound a little brighter compared to my home studio, which was also same chain. Their room is all clad in wood so it all bounces back brighter 👌🏽
Congratulations! You've chosen the best and most versatile guitar ever. That's a dream strat. Personally I think the weak points of a strat are the tremolo bridge and the bridge pickup. If Fender decided to sell a lot more hardtail hss I think they would get even richer. Haha!
You silly sausage 😉 haha jokes aside. In the past i would have agreed. But i have a v classic 3 tone burst from Case guitars and so i could afford to go a bit different here. But to be clear, once i played it looks were secondary
@@JamesOnGuitar yeah I get that man. If you are treating it as a tool fair enough. But if I ever get to spend that much cash on a guitar (which I doubt) I will want to be able lust over it even when I'm not playing it. Whatever, you love it which is all that matters.
Not my experience… there is a lot more to it than that. I’ve only played 2 but they have both been a big step up over all the other custom shops i’ve played 🤷🏽
@@JamesOnGuitar I just think that these guitars are not in any way "custom" besides distressing them to make them feel old and worn in. For that money you can have someone build you a true work of art. That being said I think the Strat is the best guitar ever made design wise. However my PRS S2 is slowly becoming my favorite. Take care bud great channel!
I know alot of people like it but relic is just to fake for me, it’s a lie and just phony in my opinion, giving the impression that it’s a road dog without having done it is poser territory as far as I’m concerned, no offense, but something to think about.
Bowing to public pressure 🤣 here is part 2! (Of 4) thanks for watching!
Ok we want part 3 NOW :D Man this neck pickup on the PW strat is killer, one of the best I've ever heard, huge congrats! Enjoy playing it!
@@achill3usoverclocking874 😃🤟🏼 cheers man! Part 3 in about an hr 👌🏽
@@JamesOnGuitar Cannot wait :D Cheers
The suspense is KILLING me!!! Beautiful Strat, you're right - when you connect like that with a guitar you might as well snap it up because all you're going to do is think about it if you don't. Digging this epic saga!
Haha zach 🤣 really glad you’re enjoying it 😃🤟🏼
I’m so happy for you man. Paul is a special builder, I got one of his teles that I ended up waiting 2 and a half years longer for than I’d originally planned and the thing is just phenomenal… looking forward to the next two parts!
Yeah, as soon as I felt it - and this was not knowing who Paul was - l knew it was special!! Cheers man
"I'm going in to look at SGs so you know I'll probably leave with a strat" looks like you spoke that one into existence 😂😂😂
I know right 🤣🤣 well spotted man 🤟🏼
In the hands of the faithful Fenders play themselves. Rock on, brother.
I see you couldn't wait! Excellent!!
😃🤟🏼🤟🏼
Fun video! I have a Master Built Strat and I agree you are paying mainly for the look, feel and attention to detail.
I have been thinking of getting a HSS Strat since I did a workshop with Marcus Deml, but resisted the temptation so far. Now I might just have to pull the trigger!
;) cheers man! Yeah, diminishing returns aside, these master built guitars are no joke!!
@@JamesOnGuitar Can't wait for the rest of the story!
Never never dare passing a masterbuilt fender. It makes you play how it wants to. Amazing experience....
I've got a Todd Krause masterbuilt strat and a Paul Waller 54 tele. They are never sells. Something super special about those guitars. Those guys really know what they're doing. Congrats on the new guitar!
Yup, it is easy to knock the price... but the guitars are worth it if you fall in love with 'em! cheers!
I'm ready for Part 3!!!! I can't believe how hooked i am on this. :-)
We are relatively small population of freaks that can't stop thinking about guitars and gear.
;) and for once everyone seems to be watching at once. haha. thanks :)
I've been playing 2yrs so still a very novice, ivevgot 4 guitars and the missus isn't happy about that. saying I need to learn to play the 1st 1 1st, however its addictive I love it, my 4 were priced around the £500 mark I want a strat the missus said if I get another guitar she will divorce me, now that's not very nice, loving the channel 🎸🎸🎸
Haha, I could see that coming 😉 Chuffed for you pal! Totally with you on the 'badges' on the black one. You can still aspire to own an original 60's vintage one day... or maybe another Masterbuilt with a rosewood board and trem... There's always somewhere else to go! 🙂 ...looking forward to part three!
Thanks Darren! Part of the reason I love strats so much. You can love the ones you own whilst still lusting over all different sorts of other ones!!
@@JamesOnGuitar tell me about it!! I have two Strats ('83 MIJ 70's reissue and a 2013 Deluxe with House of Tone 60's pickups), and there's plenty of room for more. A 50's Custom Shop Team-built is next on the list, and I know that won't be the end of it! So many neck specs to cover, never mind pickups... and one must be kept in e flat at all times 🙂It's an illness... but I don't want to be cured 😀
Get all 4 parts out a stat! Loving this. I'm on a similar journey and love the honesty and vulnerability.
I'm excited to get the last two videos done (hopefully today) - having a lot of fun! Really glad you've enjoyed it :)
I am blessed to own a cherry red VOS Custom Shop. It needs a little luthier's attention, but even still, 6.9 pounds and is a wonderful guitar.
I’m glad you also went with some other guitars like the strat. Good one wins for me re the SG. Still watching. 👍
Wow James Killer Hartail Strat. This series is so exiting better than everything on Netflix XD
Thanks! Yeah this guitar grabbed me instantly 😃 haha 🤣
I like the can’t go back I have several hand made guitars but never anything aged.
HSS is the way to go, there’s a reason they’re all called super STRAT! The one and only original baby!
Good grief James, that strat is immense! Congratulations. The sound on the neck pickup is just perfect, so glassy! Anyway, I can’t stop, I’ve just seen that Episode 3 is out…
😃 cheers Gareth! What a day it was… and that strat is just 😍
@@JamesOnGuitar you must have had trouble sleeping that night after all the excitement!!
I did actually - but for reasons that will become clear in part 4!
@@JamesOnGuitar ha ha, well not long for me to wait to find out why now!
Loving this 🤣 and the idea of a hard tail Strat on the channel. 👍
😃 man it was a day in 5 years worth of fun!!
Wow, the two videos are really fantastic and convey the sheer excitement of getting a new guitar but also how every guitar does have its own feel and sound.
Really surprised that you walked away from the gold SG as it sounded so sweet but equally surprised that you were also able to go back to a petrol car after having an electric car.
🤣 yeah with the car - now electric cars are inevitable part of me wanted to just enjoy an engine for a few years before going to electric forever. Also, i don’t commute to work but instead most of my driving is based on very long journeys to our house in france… so much charging to do!!
I always thought that the hard-tail Strat was going against its original design mandate. However, I do understand that desire when you connect with an instrument. It's cost me plenty over the years, but I don't regret any of the cost when I play them. Hope you continue to enjoy it. 👍🏻😁
I know what you mean - although I was surprised to read (after buying this ht) that they started as early as mid '55 - for players who wanted a more direct sound apparently. It's sure to cost more... and become even more fun over the years! cheers :)
Wow James you could hear the notes jump off that PW MB strat. Congrats on the acquisition… I’m binge watching all these episodes to catch up
🤟🏼 yeah the neck pickup is just crazy!! Thanks
I played a $13,000 ‘69 Strat at Carter Vintage in Nashville. Thank goodness my wife was with me to keep me from doing something rash and irresponsible. Paul from Studio Rats played a Masterbuilt that was one of the best Strats I’ve ever heard; this new Strat of yours is equally gorgeous.
You mean, she made you buy it? ;) haha thanks man!
James, I’ve got a real kick out of your guitar safari so far. Had a few of those adventures myself.
I’ve yet to find a Fender Custom Shop or Masterbuilt that I bonded with, so I’m pretty envious. At the same time, I’m very happy for you, mate!
Keep up the great work!
Haha that’s one heck of a guitar James. Looks and sounds killer!
Thanks tom! 🤟🏼
Love it!!! I’ve been in love with Hardtail every since I saw Ronnie wood play his 55 with the stones. (Ps:I’m only 26.. sooo 😂) amazing!
Rock on man! That's brilliant :)
Omg I was cooing over this strat since it was demoed on Peach. I thought it was going to be sold instantly. Humbuckers in strats are a no … but this guitar just works. The hss suits it. Congratulations..
So glad i managed to find it! This guitar has so much vibe 😃 yeah not always keen on hss, but this design just works this time 🤟🏼 cheers!
Great James! Excellent choice!
Thanks!
Solid choice! I like this way better than the gold SG.
Uff, thats a Keeper man. Congrats! Really a special guitar. HT, HSS Gold Hardware. I like your style. :)
Yeah man, so glad i found it! Cheers 🤟🏼
Hey James can you link the original peach video for this guitar, I can’t find it for looking apparently it exists according to comment in this feed …and or build no. And builder .want to get into the weeds on the specs
I have just hard tailed a HSS strat for slide, really interested in this guitar. Fantastic run of videos given me gut wrench guitar gas.
Congrats on the bartel, get real joy from mine. A video down the line how amp stacks up against some of your other greats with different guitars. 👍keep on trucking, nice to see your subs and views getting higher your channel is pretty unique. High end guitarist wet dream.
here you go mate: th-cam.com/video/QFB65_Rw1Rg/w-d-xo.html
I was just playing it (as i have done every day!) and it is so versatile... love it! Now I still want a pre cbs standard trem strat, but this one gives me the total opposite and does it so well!
thank you :)
Hi, James. What PUs inside? wiring? did they PLEK-ed it? Thanks! Cheers!
For the strat they are i think josefina fat 50s neck and middle and pall waller made the humbucker, otherwise standard wiring 👍🏼
Congrats on your strat - few people lucky to own one!
Thank you! Yup, feeling very lucky 👍🏼
I'm a little surprised you didn't buy your own Novo. I'm lusting after one, myself, but between the price and that year waiting time...I'm more likely to pick up a new amp first
Oh man, that path will open up soon! I love this Novo I've borrowed, but they don't do that spec with the bigsby anymore, so not sure...
On the last strat....why is the 'fake' wear on the fretboard white instead of dark/black finger marks that you get on maple boards ??
🤔 either artistic license or because it is an oversprayed board so maybe when chipped away it looks like that? I’ll have to attest no knowledge on that!
First time you buy any Fullerton G&L… ;)
Signal chain on Peach Guitars when tou demo'ed the strat please? 🔥
Cheer man - just guitar straight into the Rift Aynsley Lister! The room there makes everything sound a little brighter compared to my home studio, which was also same chain. Their room is all clad in wood so it all bounces back brighter 👌🏽
Amazing Axes
😃yeah i love em all!
Beautiful strat. Congrats. Whats the specs btw?
When you connect with a strat it's all over imo lol at least it was for me. I never want to play anything else and I don't lol Love my strat
Yup, strats have that little extra man
These sounded great
😃
Congratulations! You've chosen the best and most versatile guitar ever. That's a dream strat. Personally I think the weak points of a strat are the tremolo bridge and the bridge pickup. If Fender decided to sell a lot more hardtail hss I think they would get even richer. Haha!
Cheers jose - you got that right! Such a great configuration and style! I’m glad it isn’t more common now, but it should be really as you say 👍🏼
Oooo you little tease you, alls well main thing you like and FEC the rest who don't
Check out the theft video from Peach from a few years ago, you’ll see why they keep stuff out of sight!
🙁 i’ll have to find it!
I kicked Gibson to the Curb in 2019 and went to Epiphone and I have never looked back..
You definitely not need a doctor , but a specialist !!
Yup, I do need a lie down now...
Don't sub very often, but cheers great video you earned mine!
Cheers man 👌🏽 i’ve just subbed right back at ya based on your very strong thumbnail game! Currently watching one of your vids - great stuff 🤟🏼
@@JamesOnGuitar 🙏
If it makes you happy, I'm happy for you.
😃 i think the rest of this series will make you happy too 🤟🏼🤟🏼
Don't like the way it looks with that bridge pickup. Just ruins it for me.
You silly sausage 😉 haha jokes aside. In the past i would have agreed. But i have a v classic 3 tone burst from Case guitars and so i could afford to go a bit different here. But to be clear, once i played it looks were secondary
@@JamesOnGuitar yeah I get that man. If you are treating it as a tool fair enough. But if I ever get to spend that much cash on a guitar (which I doubt) I will want to be able lust over it even when I'm not playing it. Whatever, you love it which is all that matters.
Do you have a trust fund? (Genuinely no hate in the question).
Yep. You definitely spent like $7k on a hard tail HSS strat.
Master Built = frets are level and the fingerboard is rolled, then charge $3000 more than it's worth.
Not my experience… there is a lot more to it than that. I’ve only played 2 but they have both been a big step up over all the other custom shops i’ve played 🤷🏽
@@JamesOnGuitar I just think that these guitars are not in any way "custom" besides distressing them to make them feel old and worn in. For that money you can have someone build you a true work of art. That being said I think the Strat is the best guitar ever made design wise. However my PRS S2 is slowly becoming my favorite. Take care bud great channel!
Homie looks just like nick mercs
is there a hint over your lefthand shoulder mmmm
😃🤫
@@JamesOnGuitar lol
So custom shop and master built baisically replicate standard production from 60 plus years ago right? Is it just me or is that complete bullshit?
Jesus, how much FU money do you have? LOL
See - this is why i talked about this at the start of the first episode!!!
But also, 🤣
@@JamesOnGuitar No hate here my friend. I just see all your gear from watching your videos. LOL
Lovely... but damn man, you rob banks for a living?
I know alot of people like it but relic is just to fake for me, it’s a lie and just phony in my opinion, giving the impression that it’s a road dog without having done it is poser territory as far as I’m concerned, no offense, but something to think about.