I’m glad someone finally said this. As a “hobby” guitar player, I can’t justify $1,500 - $2,000 for a Gibson Les Paul when the Epiphone quality is excellent for less than half the price. I paid $100 for a Squier Bullet Strat and it plays so well I invested in some upgraded locking tuners. While the brand does help the resale value, I don’t buy my guitars for the next owner. Great video, Phil.
My first guitar was a Squier , and I loved it. I traded it for a Peavey Patriot after an unfortunate head stock crack. I would own another Squier in a second, but I don't need any more guitars right now. Lol. I agree with you though. The name on the head stock doesn't mean anything to me. If it plays, I'll play it. I have an Epiphone SG right now that I don't think I'll ever part with.
My squier Tom delong strat was so nice and played so well that my dad would constantly ask to borrow it to play in his church worship band. Imagine that, an old man playing a blink 182 themed guitar on stage with piano, drums, and a choir.
Billy is an "old man", so is Steve and Carlos, Slash is getting up there too. The list is long, those are just a few. Age isn't a factor, well until you're decrepit, but even then John Prine was still performing. Still there are no age restrictions, just saying...🎸🎵
I wish you had mentioned the j mascis jazzmaster. I have one and I think it's been one the best guitars I've owned, and I've had a gibson les paul, prs se custom 24, and a epiphone sheraton
I also agree, the J Mascis is amazing for the price, well it’s amazing anyway. Well built and stays in tune. I took mine across the country without a case just wrapped in a blanket and put in a trailer and took it out a month and a half later and was just slightly out of tune.
A few years ago I bought a Squire Jaguar by mail. I thought if it sucks I'll just hang it fog wall art. I was shocked at the fit and finish. This guitar was setup and detailed better than many Fenders I've tried at Guitar Center. It gave me a new appreciation for the workmanship from, if I remember correctly, Indonesia,
I concur; those Indonesians know what they`re doing; I`ll never buy American again, unless I find a deal at a garage sale, same with cars; I`ll never buy American unless it`s a fantastic deal!! The U.S.A. IS A RIPOFF! This live music video of some Indonesians jamming in 1960 might explain why the Indonesions make such good guitars; I can`t believe how good these guys were in 19 fucking 60! th-cam.com/video/muKkVufgkAE/w-d-xo.html
Same here. I almost bought a Squier Jazzmaster a year back because they really didn't make many left handed Fender ones. Ended up getting the Kurt Cobain jaguar, but the Squier Jazzmaster seemed like a really good deal.
@@tomasagustinveravicentin7789 my Epi LP Tribute Outfit was better than my Gibson LP Standard 2011. I sold both and now have 2 Tokai LS, 1 equalling a G LP R9 for half the price, 1 equalling/better than the G Std again for half the price. I still have an Epi LP Custom Black Beauty made in Korea that's a keeper too, just changed the pick-ups.
My whole philosophy is that the audience (with the exception of maybe a couple of gearheads) don't really give jack about what brand of guitar you play. I play a partscaster I put together from odds and ends and I like it because it's comfortable to me. Never heard anyone once say you suck because you play x guitar. As long as you can play its ok
I bought the Classic Vibe ‘70s Thinline Telecaster a week ago for its looks and all I could say is, this definitely one of the nicest playing and sounding guitar I ever owned. Can definitely compete with Fenders
I just picked up a mint Thinline Tele for $200 bucks and it’s becoming one of my favorites in front of my American Fenders. It’s a Tele on steroids! I took it to practice and the guys were also impressed!
The “more traditional” wood, alder, is actually a more modern convention in guitar manufacturing for fenders. The pine and poplar are used to make the classic vibe series true to their vintage counterparts. Tele’s originally used pine (back in the esquire days) and mustangs used poplar in the 60’s and 70’s.
I would probably choose the Fender in most cases... but man! The Squires they are putting out today are absolutely superior to what they were 30 years ago when I was a beginner. If I were on a strict budget I would be completely happy with a modern Squier.
+phreak1118 I would have thought that too, but I got a Squier 'Classic Vibe' Butterscotch Telecaster, and everything about it shocked me. I had never seen one, other than in pictures online. Maybe I unknowingly think of the price difference in the two, but I like my Squier better than my American Tele. I'm getting ready to order a second one.
Love my MIJ E-series Squier Strat I bought in ‘87. Dropped in some DiMarzio Area pickups and is still my #1 after all these years. Great guitars from that era.
@@7Roeth That's true, but the wood doesn't affect playability, looks or sound really. Apart from the Indian laurel fretboard, but that's very close to rosewood in sound/feel
Adam Greenhill I totally agree. Its all to do with the name. I have Gibson stuff, Epiphone stuff. Fender and Squire. I have these guitars because I based my purchase on going into a store and sitting playing the actual guitar I was paying for. All manufacturers make good and bad instruments. You need to play it first to make a decision and not blindly buy online. I even bought a Squire Afinity Strat from a guy in a car park for £50. I sat on the kerb, played it for 10 minutes and...SOLD! It’s now one of my favourite guitars. My point is, never buy before you try! Even brand new from a dealer. You may end up with an expensive piece of dog shit.
The vintage modified series addresses the one weak point Squiers have, substandard pickups. With The vintage modified they’ve already done what you would have had to do. They’re a great bargain and a great player.
@@panzerlieb I put and Epic Custom Shops Black Gold pickup in my Squier CV P bass and it sounds INCREDIBLE now. It looks amazing and it's the perfect weight. I freaking love it
I have a 1992 korean made squier that in blind tests constantly beats out de more expensive fenders in tone and playability... The secret here... SETUP SETUP SETUP!
@@coldramentpm1013 try setting your neckpickup flush to the body, Middle pickup 80% up Bridgepickup 90% up Volume, as needed, First tone on 3 second tone on 10. Also lookup youtube vids on proper string, bridge and neck setup
@@stevewilson3838 Another good Korean model to look out for is the Squier "Pro-Tone" series, they were actually discontinued because they were outselling the MIM models (and I heard in some places the USA models as well) because of how high quality they were and how great they played. The paint they used on them ages just like the classic nitro paints and the hardware was just top notch, my P-Bass 5 has gone from a candy apple to a deep red wine and one of my guitar buddies had his blue go to a deep emerald green, just lovely. IF you can find one (and that is a big IF as few of them ever come up for sale) definitely grab it as the sound and quality of those are just excellent. I mean just look at the wood and finish, isn't it lovely? guitar-auctions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/lot0006.jpg
I have a Korean plywood Tele from 93, aside from the crappy tuning keys it’s been pretty solid for 26 years. About to retire it because I play my J Mascis more.
@@TheHangarHobbit Yeah i've seen the PRO TONE's those they look great. I've got a Squire E9 serial number strat from 1989 it's an early korean, feels like the real deal with gotoh hardware. Would love an early 80's JV model they are alleged USA parts assembled in Japan and now fetch good money on the used market.
I love the Squier Classic Vibe series, and own the 50’s Tele and the 70’s Strat, they’re awesome guitars! I’ve owned a MIM Fender Tele before and I feel the quality and value of the classic vibe is above the Mexican Fender. If you can move past not having that Fender logo on the headstock, the Classic Vibe is a great route to go!
I believe the very first telecasters were made out of pine and that's why they do those runs periodically. One isn't better than the other they are just different. The modern player tele was pine too if memory serves. Some people like the pine for the tonal variation.
I have built 5 pine-casters with 1 piece bodies out of Ohio Pine sourced from StewMac, Seymour’s pup’s and high grade hardware/wiring. They are 1/3 less weight than Alder, and almost ½ the weight of some Swamp Ash. They sound great and are a joy to play! Some of Leo’s earliest, and most coveted Teles are pine. Probably want to stay away from H-D, but there are some very good pine Tele’s out there! I’m 67, and I’ve played a few in my time... Just saying... 8-)
David Kaiser Firstly that’s not a Custom Shop guitar. It’s a limited run US production instrument. Secondly, it’s not any old pine, it’s specifically reclaimed from an industrial building in Wisconsin where it has been for well over a century if I recall correctly. The argument here is that old wood has dried out properly over a long period and that’s a good thing for guitar building. Whether you care about that or not is up to you, but it was a limited run guitar and not much more expensive than a standard American Professional guitar on which it is largely based, whilst having some cool tweaks in addition to the body wood such as heavily figured maple necks and different pickups to standard (especially in the neck on this model). If you don’t like it don’t buy it but they’re really difficult to find new now so it seems enough people liked them to essentially buy the run out.
I own 2 high end Fender Teles and 2 high end Strats, along with 2 Squire Classic Vibe 50's Teles and 2 Classic Vibe 50's Strats. They all play and sound great. My opinion is that there is very little difference between them except for better Pick ups and electronics in the Fenders and some better quality in the hardware. However, with the guitars set up properly and played through good amps the difference is negligible. Both the Fenders and Squires perform wonderfully and I love them all equally. I've played them all in the studio and in live performances, and they never disappoint. If you're on a budget, Squire guitars are still a great choice.
I have a Squier Jazz bass that I purchased in '83. A good sounding and playable bass, but with the cheap stock bridge, I was continuously breaking strings. I switched to a badass bridge and problem solved. I also have the same Tele thinline shown in the vid. Both, in my opinion, are excellent instruments and I also have no regrets :)
I think my Squier Classic Vibe 50s sounds just as good as a US Standard Strat. A lot of people hear more in an original US Standard Strat than is heard and I am convinced of that with my Strat Classic Vibe and my Fender FM212 and my BOSS ME 80 it will be hard even for experts to hear a difference and to explain it to me.
I have the Squier Classic Vibe model. Absolutely faultless in all respects, (especially build quality, sounds and weight) and - for me personally, - it manages to do what I thought could never happen. I've loved Strats all my life, but this Squier Tele has totally turned me round to the extent that I sold both my Player Strat and Hendrix reverse-headstock Strat. The tone control has a very wide range without any sudden drop-offs or cut-ins. The volume control is equally effective across the whole ranger up to 10. Money-wise and quality-wise, there's no contest as far as I'm concerned. It's a superb instrument. My Squier CV Tele weighs in at just about 7lbs.
IMHO, The Fender Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster is one of the best products Squier makes, and it blows away many of the American models. The neck alone (which is the same as the neck on the Fender Custom Shop Rory Gallager Strat) is worth the budget price.
I agree! Even better is you can get it for an even lower price, as the Jazzmaster Deluxe, which is the same guitar, except in Candy Apple Red and without the name.
I love this show. Even when he talks about a thing I've learned, there is more info. Good show ,channel, vid, guy, IDK I'm old and I learn new stuff all the time. I'm sure it is one if not all them words. Peace man
I have to say the squire is moving ahead with quality a few mods an you have a nice guitar I know the professional players have standards. But I have made my guitar it Wil take it to the Street. Beefed Up.
On the bass side, I’d add the Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass '70s over the Fender Jazz Standard MIMs. Fraction of the price and playability and tone is better. IMO
I agree completely. The Modified 77 sounds & plays as good as the American Jazz Basses I own. Yes, you are reading correctly. Most other "pros" wouldn't admit it, but the Squier Modified 77 Jazz is one of my favorite basses regardless of price or manufacturer.
The Squier Classic Vibe Teles are great. I have all three, and the John 5 Squier Tele is another huge winner. The Squier Contemporary HH Tele is also a stud. I have a 1976 Fender Tele, Standard model and the Squiers are definitely in that league.
I wanted to get a Tele for years. I went to GC and A/B'd the Classic Vibe to the Mexican Tele and it was no contest. The classic Vibe won me over every time. Plus, the CV has the vintage tuners which I've always loved. I bought the CV and I absolutely love it.
You nailed it. I bought a 2010 Classic Vibe Tele used for124$ out the door and was impressed. Didn't put it down for days and I have a custom shop USA Fender Strat
@@steveknoxville5224 I really like the way a strat fits against me sitting or standing. My 50's strat. CV is also light and plays great. My Tele. is a butterscotch. Thing is I start playing it and kinda forget about time? Till the wifey yells😂🤣. Fender will hold its value better, we know that. I don't worry about scratches and dings as much as I do with my les paul.
I'd also mention a Squier Classic Vibe 60s Telecaster Thinline, especially the older mahogany body versions. They literally had no competition in the Fender lineup outside their Custom Shop up until recently, and they're fantastic little axes.
Fender makes a MIM 72 Thinline Tele thats much more comparable than the Tele Deluxe you picked. Also, the pickups in the Squier Thinline are G&B pickups branded as Fender. They're mediocre. Same pickups that go into low end PRS SE guitars.
Well, have you _played_ any of these? I mean, specs are nice and all, but I would think that a specific _guitar_ channel would do a hands-on test to verify what the specs promise...
Hey Phil! I think there might be a typo on the Fender/Squier Mustang spec sheets here -- I believe they're still all 24" scale, whether Fender or Squier.
@@elliotvernon7971Exactly. A Fender Mustang was created to be an inexpensive beginners guitar with an easier to handle short scale. That short scale gave it a unique voice. It wasn't until Curt Cobain was seen playing it that it's popularity (and price) exploded. When Fender saw what used 60's budget guitars were going for they began reissuing them at a ridiculously high Strat like price. The current Fenders are somewhat more reasonable but the Squire is absolutely more period correct and what you want if the sound of the Mustang is what you're after. The price is more like the original too.
I’ve always loved the look of Mustangs but they were always a bit too small at 22.5”. Ive played Jags forever so I’m really excited to see them all at 24” now, I even picked up a used Duo Sonic for $300.
I played a thinline tele with the jazzmasters at GC. I fell in love with it. I already own an ultra Strat and a 60th anniversary with a v neck. The squire blew me away. Awesome tone and sustain. Not every thinline was like the one I picked. So very important to play your instrument before you buy.
My father bought me a Squier 50s Classic Vibe Telecaster 10 years ago for my birthday. It's my favourite guitar, both because it plays great and because my dad gave it to me. I have owned two MIJ Fender Strats, they sound good but can't beat the tele.
Omg this video came at the right time... I was seriously thinking about buying the squire Thinline telecaster but was a bit concerned because it is not Fender. I'm impressed!
Plus if you wanted you could get a set of Seth Lover wide ranges (or Tim Shaw's) & have yourself a 70's thinline or custom shop quality guitar for way less than a Fender. It'd hands down wipe the floor with any MIM I bet.
@@eltonsilvamtm I trust the squier name more than fender it's self. They are not too expensive and in my experience have always been great guitars I don't have much to lose but if I got a real fender and didn't like it I'm stuck with an expensive piece of wood with strings and it's gonna cost a whole lot more changing out parts than a squier. I would get MIM or a classic vibe if I didn't like the squier
The neck pockets of the classic vibe strats I’ve seen are flooded with poly. Absolutely ridiculous and disgusting. Its like they made it worse on purpose. Why would anyone put a ton of poly on the contact point btw neck and body? It took me many hours to remove that poly and prep the neck pocket and the difference in tone is noticeable after I removed it. I also removed a bit of the neck finish that contacts the body .
That Squier CV Mustang blew my mind. I swapped the bridge pickup, not that I needed to, for a SD Hot Rails pickup and 🤯🤯🤯. It’s probably my favorite guitar. I also bought a Squier Bullet Mustang in black for myself and a Squier Sonic series Mustang in red for my daughter. The black one needed a slight string height adjustment and the red was good to go out of the box. Don’t turn your nose up at Squier. They’re making some amazing and affordable guitars. I did recently buy a MIM Fender Telecaster in the Butterscotch Blonde color. I honestly love the guitar but for the money I wish I would have bought the Squier version for the reasons given in the video.
The Squier Classic Vibe Tele is one of my favorite guitars! I have three Squiers and I love them all! Even my friends with Fenders are impressed. I also think my Epiphone Sheraton is head and shoulders better than any Gibson from the past twenty years. I'll NEVER own another Fender or Gibson! There are too many guitar makers out there putting out better, more modern product than either of those.
I just came back to playing an electric after only playing a 12-string acoustic for the past 25 years. I picked up the Squier Jazzmaster. I absolutely love this guitar.
I've been buying Squires and Mexican Fenders and upgrading them for other players for this very reason. I've gravitated to PRS and custom guitars over the years. My so-called Fenders are custom Warmoth jobs. Hey, to be honest it was hit or miss back in the day(50+yr. player). Production methods have improved but the quality of the components has suffered. Even PRS buy Chinc bridges. I bought one for $55 from Taiwan
Are Squiers better than Fenders? Yes, but so are nearly everything else! Fender stopped making high quality.electric guitars when they closed Fullerton. Gibson hasn't made an LP of value approaching their exhorbitant prices since they left Kalamazoo. My 30th Anniversary 52 Tele (1st re-issue) is the best Fender to ever come out of Fullerton. I have 2 Affinity Indonesian Cort Strats which I learned to slightly mod; fret-edge smoothing, proper 3-spring full-float trem, CTS pots, Mallory Orange Drop caps & treble bleeds, WBW perloid pickguards, copper shielding & 1 intonation-correcting neck-wedge. Together less cash (but much labour-of-love) than ONE North American Strat, but both are set up to out-perform the best players of any Fender at any price. Even with her high E wound backwards, after the first stroke of shiny black Epiphone LP100 I KNEW I HAD TO HAVE HER. I talked the pawnshop person down from $99 to $80. Since she was the best playing guitar I ever played, it took me almost a week before I could change her strings without worrying about messing up her perfect setup. I installed CTS pots, Mallory Orange drop caps, treble-bleed resistors (as with my Strats), switchcraft switch, Chinese Epiphone nickle plated HB pickups, Grover 18:1s with ceramic (black) keystone knobs, Dunlop straplocks, D'Addario 10-46s and her proudly-emblazoned EPIPHONE plush-fitted, 5-latch Toltex case. I now have the best customized perfectly-playing Les Paul ever concieved for less than 1/3 the cost of any Gibson LP with no case. When I see somebody playing a Corona Strat, or a Nashville LP, I feel sorry for them for having more money.than brains.
This! ...and the Deluxe Jazzmaster, which is the same guitar with different colour and no J.Mascis name on it. Sadly they don't manufacture those anymore. One of the best jazzmaster style guitars I've ever played!
@@ariqdaiyan2013 I wouldn't compare those two. Way different pickups, bridge and scale length. For jazzmasters, J.Mascis and deluxe are better built instruments than VM:s.
I own a Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster and I am very happy with it .... great playability and tone for an inexpensive guitar that looks sounds and plays like a 2000 dollar guitar ....
Off topic but interesting: Lately I have been looking into Japanese made Strats. Modern and 80’s models. Folks have mentioned that although high in quality, they play and sound different than an American strat. I had an 83’ American strat for several years, and it always felt different to me as well. Solidly built, but different than any of the other strats I’ve had (had dozens; US standard, US Custom Shop, MIM, Squier, US signature, new, old etc).
I own 11 guitars,from fender,Ibanez,PRS, Schecter and Squier,and my go to guitar is a white contemporary Squier which is my cheapest guitar and the only thing I changed was the tuners,other than the tuners it is stock and I love it!Also got a Squier 70s classic in red burst and that is also one of my favourites had to do a little fret work on it but other than that it plays like butter!
I just bought two new Indonesian Classic Vibes and they are far superior to my Chinese Classic Vibes. The Indonesian have an incredible fret dressing and fret fit. Neck pocket fit on Squiers and gaps are very tight.
For a $250 to $400 price difference, I don't mind replacing a $9 switch. Some of the better Squires already come with upgraded electronics. I have both Fenders and Squires and haven't noticed any difference in the softness of the fret wire, and I prefer the tall thin frets or jumbo frets to the medium jumbo found on most Fenders.
Agreed! My Squier modified Strat with lipstick tube pickups plays better than my Made in Mexico Blacktop Strat. The neck feels better as do the frets. I had it set up by a pro-shop and they told me many pros are using the made in Indonesia Squier necks. Also, I had to have a third single coil pickup (LACE sensor chrome dome reverse wound pickup) to the Blacktop nd have it rewired. The volume drop between single coil and dual coil on the original setup was objectionable. This by the way was the first Fender set up this way since I asked Fender why this was a problem. Shoirtly after, Fender ofered, for a while, a similar setup.
i had a CV P Bass first, then a Strat, then a Tele. i bought them within months when they came out. I sold them all at some point, and missed every one. After waiting and hoping I got another CV tele on craigslist two days ago, and it's bee so good to have one back in my lineup. it's the best telecaster for less than a grand, ALL DAY. Every single one was great, i really don't understand why they were so competent when the other regular squires really are not. But they really are. I have a ton of USA made, top quality gear as well and the CV's really hold up super well to most of them. Aside from having very-slightly cheesy tuners, and potentially kind of middling pickups, i really don't know how else they could be better.
Can you please tell me the advantage and disadvantage about Squire bullet strat HSS configuration, and Squire Affinity strat HSS configuration. About the good things and the weakest point on those guitars, and about the each and every parts on those guitars. Every detail about those guitars. I want to known it all. Please. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Disagree. I've played tons of squiers, MIM, and American strats. While the squires and MIM are very good today vs. decades past, they still, by and large, don't quite match the American versions although the closer they are to the borders, the more they are alike. For example, the classic vibe series to an entry MIM. The feel is typically not there and you have to "mod" them in one or more ways. A friend of mine spent hundreds upgrading a squire to "American Specs" including custom shop pickups and he ended up selling it. It just never got to the level his American Standard one was at.
head's up, the Jazzmaster chapter is missing for the 4:45 timestamp (both the Telecaster deluxe and the Jazzmaster are labelled as the Fender Telecaster Deluxe chapter)
I have an American Fender Strat and a Squier Classic Vibe Strat. I also have a Mexican Fender Vintera Telecaster and a Squier Classic Vibe 60s Custom Tele. In both cases I prefer the Squier versions not only to play but I believe they also sound better in tone both clean and dirty. The quality and aesthetics of the Squier is equal to that of the Fender. They are not disappointing in any respect.
If you're planning to buy a very low end MIM Fender imho I think you should save money and buy a higher end Squier. I have a Classic Vibe 60s that I loved to death that for some crazy reason I sold off to buy an MIM strat. Big mistake. I haven't found any Squier that beats MIMs in the above $1000 range though. Even though they might be spec(ed) batter something about the fit and finish I've always found better in MIMs.
Even in the comments people can't spell SQUIER correctly. I have had Japanese Squiers, Japanese Fenders, and my current guitars are Squier Classic Vibe. I've never owned an American made or Mexican made Fender. Squiers are great!
"I own a 1997 Korean made Squier Stratocaster and it sounds and plays way better than any US made Fender ive ever played it nails that SRV/ Hendrix tone its got a nice flat 14" finger board radius and extra jumbo frets,only thing ive done is install a custom made bone nut, switchkaft 5 way switch, input jack,and a professional setup and shes amazing"
I agree, the Squier Contemporary line, Tele and strat are Excellent. I have the Red sparkle tele with covered humbuckers, and newly acquired Squire contempt strat in black with gold sparkles. The tele is heavy the strat not the 12” radius is perfect. Squire has come up and for 349 are steel deals.
I have the Squire Contemporary HSS Strat and think it a great guitar. I to like the ceramic pickups. Is the second position a coil tap of the humbucker?
I've examined my HSS wiring harness and it has one hot lead (red) to the switch and one to ground (v-pot). It appears they may have tied the 2 other leads together as there is a bulge in the heat shrink that could be where they're taped off. According to all the wiring diagrams I have studied on Auto-Split for the 2nd position those other two leads need to be tied to the switch somewhere. I can definitely detect the quack and volume and tone shift with hum cancel in position two, but not being a wiring expert I cannot verify that the bridge humbucker has been split or tapped. Perhaps someone else here could answer more definitively.
6:39 in the guitar shop it was a choice between this squire and a Mexican standard Stratocaster. I went with fender. Partly because It had a maple neck but really because fender guitars are better
Conbro098 resale is also much better. A $400 Squire will resell for $150 in 10 years. A $1200 American Fender can sell for more than you originally purchased it for in 10 years.
I love my squier which is the last one you discussed. It’s also purple which adds to the aesthetic. The tone is also really nice. The more flat fretboard is a little strange at first, but not a problem.
Could anyone let me know if it is actually mistaken? I love mustangs but I dont like that they feel smaller, if they had the same scale as a strat i'd buy one right away tbh
I have had a 65, 66, squire and 2015 Mexican mustang but the worst I have played is the new performer USA the neck felt like really cheap and unfinished I couldn't believe how poor it was. My Mexican strategy is better than the squire I had.
No they are not,they're still better than most of the overpriced Mexico catalog for sure,these Squiers are on par with other Chinese brands but at a higher price tag because of Fender relationship.
Hi, I had the chance to play a Squier Classic Vibes Thinline Tele (exactly the one from your video) vs. a Fender US original in my favorite music store some years ago. And what shall I say? The Squier was performing way better although more than 1.000 Euros cheaper. Bought the Squier of course. Only disadvantage is the PU painted neck. Took some time to get rid of that awkward glossy covering, but finally did it successfully.
me, a broke beginner:
*i like your funny words , magic man*
What type of guitar do you have?
@@nickgames7120 i don't have one lol, i use my dad's acoustic fender.
As an owner of the player series telecaster, this hurts me inside
Ewan Guitar i feel u bro
Saaaaame bro
Same, I'm actually thinking of selling it and buy a squier.
@@rembertoquintanilla5007 you can prolly sell it, buy a squier, and buy some McDonald's too lol
I have a beautiful mexie boy and I’m satisfied all the professional that I’ve seen say they would prefer mine over squire don’t worry
I’m glad someone finally said this. As a “hobby” guitar player, I can’t justify $1,500 - $2,000 for a Gibson Les Paul when the Epiphone quality is excellent for less than half the price. I paid $100 for a Squier Bullet Strat and it plays so well I invested in some upgraded locking tuners. While the brand does help the resale value, I don’t buy my guitars for the next owner. Great video, Phil.
Yeah totally agree the yamaha revstar vs a les paul is also worth comparing.
Well said, I completely agree 😊
@@thornwivans I’ve not heard of a revstar before. I’ll definitely check it out. Thank you!
My first guitar was a Squier , and I loved it. I traded it for a Peavey Patriot after an unfortunate head stock crack. I would own another Squier in a second, but I don't need any more guitars right now. Lol. I agree with you though. The name on the head stock doesn't mean anything to me. If it plays, I'll play it. I have an Epiphone SG right now that I don't think I'll ever part with.
I like that statement, "I don’t buy my guitars for the next owner";
My squier Tom delong strat was so nice and played so well that my dad would constantly ask to borrow it to play in his church worship band. Imagine that, an old man playing a blink 182 themed guitar on stage with piano, drums, and a choir.
This is incredible
Billy is an "old man", so is Steve and Carlos, Slash is getting up there too. The list is long, those are just a few. Age isn't a factor, well until you're decrepit, but even then John Prine was still performing. Still there are no age restrictions, just saying...🎸🎵
I love Tom, fav guitarist and vocalist
At 68 and feeling part of the time younger…..I love and own 6 squires
Great value for the dollar and better yet when you hot rod them
I wish you had mentioned the j mascis jazzmaster. I have one and I think it's been one the best guitars I've owned, and I've had a gibson les paul, prs se custom 24, and a epiphone sheraton
Totally agree
Same, It Is an incredibly good instrument for the price. And c'mon it's so beautiful hahah
The J Mascis may be the best Jazzmaster Fender/Squier makes compared to anything in their line-up
I also agree, the J Mascis is amazing for the price, well it’s amazing anyway. Well built and stays in tune. I took mine across the country without a case just wrapped in a blanket and put in a trailer and took it out a month and a half later and was just slightly out of tune.
Hope to get one soon ,cant wait.
A few years ago I bought a Squire Jaguar by mail. I thought if it sucks I'll just hang it fog wall art. I was shocked at the fit and finish. This guitar was setup and detailed better than many Fenders I've tried at Guitar Center. It gave me a new appreciation for the workmanship from, if I remember correctly, Indonesia,
I concur; those Indonesians know what they`re doing; I`ll never buy American again, unless I find a deal at a garage sale, same with cars; I`ll never buy American unless it`s a fantastic deal!! The U.S.A. IS A RIPOFF! This live music video of some Indonesians jamming in 1960 might explain why the Indonesions make such good guitars; I can`t believe how good these guys were in 19 fucking 60!
th-cam.com/video/muKkVufgkAE/w-d-xo.html
I appreciated this video because as a lefty, I notice Squier has more models readily available without custom ordering. Thanks
Same here. I almost bought a Squier Jazzmaster a year back because they really didn't make many left handed Fender ones. Ended up getting the Kurt Cobain jaguar, but the Squier Jazzmaster seemed like a really good deal.
Phil, we'D *loooooove* to see a similar video comparing Epiphone and Gibson....specifically the Les Pauls
Theres about 5000 of them on youtube.
If you want a good Les Paul look into Edwards brand. I own one, it's the best bang for your buck IMO.
Epiphones are crap
@@tomasagustinveravicentin7789 Not the semi hollow bodies.
@@tomasagustinveravicentin7789 my Epi LP Tribute Outfit was better than my Gibson LP Standard 2011. I sold both and now have 2 Tokai LS, 1 equalling a G LP R9 for half the price, 1 equalling/better than the G Std again for half the price. I still have an Epi LP Custom Black Beauty made in Korea that's a keeper too, just changed the pick-ups.
My whole philosophy is that the audience (with the exception of maybe a couple of gearheads) don't really give jack about what brand of guitar you play. I play a partscaster I put together from odds and ends and I like it because it's comfortable to me. Never heard anyone once say you suck because you play x guitar. As long as you can play its ok
thats the problem I cant play haha
Agree. Look at Eddie Van Halen's Frankenstein...a homemade partscaster
@@jeffhoving7784 As well as Brian May who built his guitar when he was sixteen from scraps around the house.
if anything, Ima expect more from a branded guitarist, ya know?
V DC q
I bought the Classic Vibe ‘70s Thinline Telecaster a week ago for its looks and all I could say is, this definitely one of the nicest playing and sounding guitar I ever owned. Can definitely compete with Fenders
I played a squier classic vibe 60's once and its without a doubt the nicest sounding guitar I've ever played
Can also attest that my 70’s thinline is amazing the neck feels great
I just picked up a mint Thinline Tele for $200 bucks and it’s becoming one of my favorites in front of my American Fenders. It’s a Tele on steroids! I took it to practice and the guys were also impressed!
The “more traditional” wood, alder, is actually a more modern convention in guitar manufacturing for fenders. The pine and poplar are used to make the classic vibe series true to their vintage counterparts. Tele’s originally used pine (back in the esquire days) and mustangs used poplar in the 60’s and 70’s.
Love my squire jazz master. I had a Fender jazzmaster back in the early 70’s but the squire is actually better.
Or your memory is worse...
I would probably choose the Fender in most cases... but man! The Squires they are putting out today are absolutely superior to what they were 30 years ago when I was a beginner. If I were on a strict budget I would be completely happy with a modern Squier.
Don't think today's Squires beat the Japanese from the early 80s though. Got a Squier Bullet Bass from '83 and that thing is an absolute beast.
+phreak1118 I would have thought that too, but I got a Squier 'Classic Vibe' Butterscotch Telecaster, and everything about it shocked me. I had never seen one, other than in pictures online. Maybe I unknowingly think of the price difference in the two, but I like my Squier better than my American Tele. I'm getting ready to order a second one.
Are you Rebea??
Love my MIJ E-series Squier Strat I bought in ‘87. Dropped in some DiMarzio Area pickups and is still my #1 after all these years. Great guitars from that era.
Japanese Squire’s were notoriously amazing guitars.
I could almost hear the Fender fanboys going crazy
In my opinion with just a “little love” any squier is as good as its fender counterpart ...
True. All they need is some fret/neck smoothing and maybe sanding the nut - then they're as high quality as Fenders
Totally agree
What about the quality of the wood cut? An American made gets you a high quality cut of wood for your neck, body, headstock.
@@7Roeth That's true, but the wood doesn't affect playability, looks or sound really. Apart from the Indian laurel fretboard, but that's very close to rosewood in sound/feel
Adam Greenhill I totally agree. Its all to do with the name. I have Gibson stuff, Epiphone stuff. Fender and Squire. I have these guitars because I based my purchase on going into a store and sitting playing the actual guitar I was paying for. All manufacturers make good and bad instruments. You need to play it first to make a decision and not blindly buy online. I even bought a Squire Afinity Strat from a guy in a car park for £50. I sat on the kerb, played it for 10 minutes and...SOLD! It’s now one of my favourite guitars. My point is, never buy before you try! Even brand new from a dealer. You may end up with an expensive piece of dog shit.
I agree, I own a Squier Vintage Modified 70s Bass. It destroys the more expensive $550 and up Fender Player Series Bass. I'm serious.
The vintage modified series addresses the one weak point Squiers have, substandard pickups. With The vintage modified they’ve already done what you would have had to do. They’re a great bargain and a great player.
Glad to hear that 'cause I' ve owned a VM Jazz Bass for over 4 years and it's Fender Pickups have never let me down.
@@panzerlieb I put and Epic Custom Shops Black Gold pickup in my Squier CV P bass and it sounds INCREDIBLE now. It looks amazing and it's the perfect weight. I freaking love it
I have a 1992 korean made squier that in blind tests constantly beats out de more expensive fenders in tone and playability...
The secret here... SETUP SETUP SETUP!
hey david... may i ask what exactly you mean by setup? i could use some tips
@@coldramentpm1013 try setting your
neckpickup flush to the body,
Middle pickup 80% up
Bridgepickup 90% up
Volume, as needed,
First tone on 3 second tone on 10.
Also lookup youtube vids on proper string, bridge and neck setup
@@stevewilson3838 Another good Korean model to look out for is the Squier "Pro-Tone" series, they were actually discontinued because they were outselling the MIM models (and I heard in some places the USA models as well) because of how high quality they were and how great they played.
The paint they used on them ages just like the classic nitro paints and the hardware was just top notch, my P-Bass 5 has gone from a candy apple to a deep red wine and one of my guitar buddies had his blue go to a deep emerald green, just lovely. IF you can find one (and that is a big IF as few of them ever come up for sale) definitely grab it as the sound and quality of those are just excellent. I mean just look at the wood and finish, isn't it lovely?
guitar-auctions.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/lot0006.jpg
I have a Korean plywood Tele from 93, aside from the crappy tuning keys it’s been pretty solid for 26 years. About to retire it because I play my J Mascis more.
@@TheHangarHobbit Yeah i've seen the PRO TONE's those they look great. I've got a Squire E9 serial number strat from 1989 it's an early korean, feels like the real deal with gotoh hardware. Would love an early 80's JV model they are alleged USA parts assembled in Japan and now fetch good money on the used market.
Imagine not bringing up the starcaster
Great video man, I love my 60th anniversary squier classic vibe strat.
HA! I love mine too man lol....Exact same guitar I bet...Aztec Gold?
Just bought my Squier Contemporary Active HH Strat brand new in box at local GC on sale for $249. Ridiculous deal.
musicismyreligion awesome guitar . One of my best guitars
Thank you Phillip, I really enjoyed this. It would also be nice to do a comparison of Squire and Fender basses
I second this.
I vote for this also 🤘🏻🤘🏿🤘🏼🤘🏾🤘🏽🤘
He definitely should
I approve ✔
Yes do the difference between the Squier CV basses and the Fender Player series MIM
I love the Squier Classic Vibe series, and own the 50’s Tele and the 70’s Strat, they’re awesome guitars! I’ve owned a MIM Fender Tele before and I feel the quality and value of the classic vibe is above the Mexican Fender. If you can move past not having that Fender logo on the headstock, the Classic Vibe is a great route to go!
$2k for pine???? thats a home depot caster! haha
I know, since when did a wood that was considered inferior now be a custom shop item?
I believe the very first telecasters were made out of pine and that's why they do those runs periodically. One isn't better than the other they are just different. The modern player tele was pine too if memory serves. Some people like the pine for the tonal variation.
I have built 5 pine-casters with 1 piece bodies out of Ohio Pine sourced from StewMac, Seymour’s pup’s and high grade hardware/wiring. They are 1/3 less weight than Alder, and almost ½ the weight of some Swamp Ash. They sound great and are a joy to play! Some of Leo’s earliest, and most coveted Teles are pine. Probably want to stay away from H-D, but there are some very good pine Tele’s out there! I’m 67, and I’ve played a few in my time... Just saying... 8-)
David Kaiser Firstly that’s not a Custom Shop guitar. It’s a limited run US production instrument. Secondly, it’s not any old pine, it’s specifically reclaimed from an industrial building in Wisconsin where it has been for well over a century if I recall correctly. The argument here is that old wood has dried out properly over a long period and that’s a good thing for guitar building. Whether you care about that or not is up to you, but it was a limited run guitar and not much more expensive than a standard American Professional guitar on which it is largely based, whilst having some cool tweaks in addition to the body wood such as heavily figured maple necks and different pickups to standard (especially in the neck on this model). If you don’t like it don’t buy it but they’re really difficult to find new now so it seems enough people liked them to essentially buy the run out.
I collect telecaster and i have made in usa, made in japan and my favourite is telecaster classic vibe blonde that has pine body
I own 2 high end Fender Teles and 2 high end Strats, along with 2 Squire Classic Vibe 50's Teles and 2 Classic Vibe 50's Strats. They all play and sound great. My opinion is that there is very little difference between them except for better Pick ups and electronics in the Fenders and some better quality in the hardware. However, with the guitars set up properly and played through good amps the difference is negligible.
Both the Fenders and Squires perform wonderfully and I love them all equally. I've played them all in the studio and in live performances, and they never disappoint. If you're on a budget, Squire guitars are still a great choice.
My squier J bass plays like a dream and looks amazing, especially after I got all black hardware(kick-ass bridge, Schaller tuners)
I have a Squier Jazz bass that I purchased in '83. A good sounding and playable bass, but with the cheap stock bridge, I was continuously breaking strings. I switched to a badass bridge and problem solved. I also have the same Tele thinline shown in the vid. Both, in my opinion, are excellent instruments and I also have no regrets :)
I think my Squier Classic Vibe 50s sounds just as good as a US Standard Strat. A lot of people hear more in an original US Standard Strat than is heard and I am convinced of that with my Strat Classic Vibe and my Fender FM212 and my BOSS ME 80 it will be hard even for experts to hear a difference and to explain it to me.
As an intro guitarist, I'm so happy with my 50s classic vibe tele, sounds great to my ear
I have the Squier Classic Vibe model. Absolutely faultless in all respects, (especially build quality, sounds and weight) and - for me personally, - it manages to do what I thought could never happen. I've loved Strats all my life, but this Squier Tele has totally turned me round to the extent that I sold both my Player Strat and Hendrix reverse-headstock Strat. The tone control has a very wide range without any sudden drop-offs or cut-ins. The volume control is equally effective across the whole ranger up to 10. Money-wise and quality-wise, there's no contest as far as I'm concerned. It's a superb instrument. My Squier CV Tele weighs in at just about 7lbs.
IMHO, The Fender Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster is one of the best products Squier makes, and it blows away many of the American models. The neck alone (which is the same as the neck on the Fender Custom Shop Rory Gallager Strat) is worth the budget price.
You are correct
I agree! Even better is you can get it for an even lower price, as the Jazzmaster Deluxe, which is the same guitar, except in Candy Apple Red and without the name.
That’s not the same neck lol but it’s a great guitar.
I was going to mention that one.
A Squier J Mascis Tele of the same standard would be worth skipping a few meals for.
I love this show. Even when he talks about a thing I've learned, there is more info.
Good show ,channel, vid, guy, IDK I'm old and I learn new stuff all the time. I'm sure it is one if not all them words.
Peace man
I have to say the squire is moving ahead with quality a few mods an you have a nice guitar I know the professional players have standards. But I have made my guitar it Wil take it to the Street. Beefed Up.
On the bass side, I’d add the Squier
Vintage Modified Jazz Bass '70s over the Fender Jazz Standard MIMs. Fraction of the price and playability and tone is better. IMO
Also would add Sire Marcus Miller basses.
I agree completely. The Modified 77 sounds & plays as good as the American Jazz Basses I own. Yes, you are reading correctly. Most other "pros" wouldn't admit it, but the Squier Modified 77 Jazz is one of my favorite basses regardless of price or manufacturer.
The Squier Classic Vibe Teles are great. I have all three, and the John 5 Squier Tele is another huge winner.
The Squier Contemporary HH Tele is also a stud.
I have a 1976 Fender Tele, Standard model and the Squiers are definitely in that league.
The 1986-87 squires made in Japan are the best ever made and are only going up in value
lol I own an 86 model....Lucky me!
What about the actual Fenders that were MIJ in 1985-6? I believe those were the few years where they weren’t made in America.
Also very hard to find too!
I just got a 86 e series Japanese squier and can see why they are loved so much 😊
I threw Vintage 65s in my E6, looooooove it. Best neck ever.
I wanted to get a Tele for years. I went to GC and A/B'd the Classic Vibe to the Mexican Tele and it was no contest. The classic Vibe won me over every time. Plus, the CV has the vintage tuners which I've always loved. I bought the CV and I absolutely love it.
You nailed it. I bought a 2010 Classic Vibe Tele used for124$ out the door and was impressed. Didn't put it down for days and I have a custom shop USA Fender Strat
lucky,used in canada they are $500
I've been debating between getting a player series or classic vibe tele, this video was perfect for deciding!
@@jonthehermit8082 yeah but I'm not sure about it as it has a 4 way switch and a push pull pot, it also has a larger soft V neck
Guys that butterscotch C.V. Tele. is awesome, I own one. Play one , then decide Tanner.
@@kentuckywindage222 I've played them at stores but was still unsure, sometimes a second opinion can help
@@steveknoxville5224 I really like the way a strat fits against me sitting or standing. My 50's strat. CV is also light and plays great. My Tele. is a butterscotch. Thing is I start playing it and kinda forget about time? Till the wifey yells😂🤣. Fender will hold its value better, we know that. I don't worry about scratches and dings as much as I do with my les paul.
it's not about brands. it' about fun and music. keep the buck in your pocket until you need it! thank you philip for being a reminder and a guide.
The Fender Mustang from Mexico is also 24" scale length, Fender bungled that up in some of their literature.
I'd also mention a Squier Classic Vibe 60s Telecaster Thinline, especially the older mahogany body versions. They literally had no competition in the Fender lineup outside their Custom Shop up until recently, and they're fantastic little axes.
Fender makes a MIM 72 Thinline Tele thats much more comparable than the Tele Deluxe you picked.
Also, the pickups in the Squier Thinline are G&B pickups branded as Fender. They're mediocre. Same pickups that go into low end PRS SE guitars.
Charles Campbell And an incredibly beautiful guitar it is. I doubt the Squier is ‘better’.
I own the squier and the pups are my only complaint I might switch them out
Well, have you _played_ any of these? I mean, specs are nice and all, but I would think that a specific _guitar_ channel would do a hands-on test to verify what the specs promise...
He's holding them. I'm sure he played them. Just trying to keep the video short I guess.
One of my favorite things about your videos is how you jump right into things and get down to business. Great one as always.
I hate watching these videos in 2022. The crazy thing is that Squiers have increased slightly, while Fenders have almost doubled in some cases.
Hey Phil! I think there might be a typo on the Fender/Squier Mustang spec sheets here -- I believe they're still all 24" scale, whether Fender or Squier.
I just checked the Fender site. The basic Fender Mustang is 24"
Same here, all I see is 24"
Got excited for a regular scale length...only to be disappointed...FML
@@elliotvernon7971Exactly. A Fender Mustang was created to be an inexpensive beginners guitar with an easier to handle short scale. That short scale gave it a unique voice. It wasn't until Curt Cobain was seen playing it that it's popularity (and price) exploded. When Fender saw what used 60's budget guitars were going for they began reissuing them at a ridiculously high Strat like price. The current Fenders are somewhat more reasonable but the Squire is absolutely more period correct and what you want if the sound of the Mustang is what you're after. The price is more like the original too.
I’ve always loved the look of Mustangs but they were always a bit too small at 22.5”. Ive played Jags forever so I’m really excited to see them all at 24” now, I even picked up a used Duo Sonic for $300.
I played a thinline tele with the jazzmasters at GC. I fell in love with it. I already own an ultra Strat and a 60th anniversary with a v neck. The squire blew me away. Awesome tone and sustain. Not every thinline was like the one I picked. So very important to play your instrument before you buy.
I Like Squire Guitars. Great value. Nice job comparing the two brands.
Cheers
My father bought me a Squier 50s Classic Vibe Telecaster 10 years ago for my birthday. It's my favourite guitar, both because it plays great and because my dad gave it to me. I have owned two MIJ Fender Strats, they sound good but can't beat the tele.
Omg this video came at the right time... I was seriously thinking about buying the squire Thinline telecaster but was a bit concerned because it is not Fender. I'm impressed!
Plus if you wanted you could get a set of Seth Lover wide ranges (or Tim Shaw's) & have yourself a 70's thinline or custom shop quality guitar for way less than a Fender. It'd hands down wipe the floor with any MIM I bet.
You're damn right bro hehehe
@@eltonsilvamtm I trust the squier name more than fender it's self. They are not too expensive and in my experience have always been great guitars I don't have much to lose but if I got a real fender and didn't like it I'm stuck with an expensive piece of wood with strings and it's gonna cost a whole lot more changing out parts than a squier. I would get MIM or a classic vibe if I didn't like the squier
The neck pockets of the classic vibe strats I’ve seen are flooded with poly. Absolutely ridiculous and disgusting. Its like they made it worse on purpose. Why would anyone put a ton of poly on the contact point btw neck and body? It took me many hours to remove that poly and prep the neck pocket and the difference in tone is noticeable after I removed it. I also removed a bit of the neck finish that contacts the body .
Fendrix 69 third world Labor.
I love my Squier Classic Vibe 50s. I still can’t believe I only spent $400 for such a great sounding and playing guitar.
+Jesse L Ditto!! I got one about two months ago, and I'm getting ready to order a second one.
Escape the Matrix - Nice! I’m thinking of grabbing a 60s version for the dark fretboard.
Just got my cv 50’s tele love it!!
That Squier CV Mustang blew my mind. I swapped the bridge pickup, not that I needed to, for a SD Hot Rails pickup and 🤯🤯🤯. It’s probably my favorite guitar. I also bought a Squier Bullet Mustang in black for myself and a Squier Sonic series Mustang in red for my daughter. The black one needed a slight string height adjustment and the red was good to go out of the box. Don’t turn your nose up at Squier. They’re making some amazing and affordable guitars. I did recently buy a MIM Fender Telecaster in the Butterscotch Blonde color. I honestly love the guitar but for the money I wish I would have bought the Squier version for the reasons given in the video.
The Squier Classic Vibe Tele is one of my favorite guitars! I have three Squiers and I love them all! Even my friends with Fenders are impressed. I also think my Epiphone Sheraton is head and shoulders better than any Gibson from the past twenty years. I'll NEVER own another Fender or Gibson! There are too many guitar makers out there putting out better, more modern product than either of those.
I just came back to playing an electric after only playing a 12-string acoustic for the past 25 years. I picked up the Squier Jazzmaster. I absolutely love this guitar.
I have that “72 Classic Vibe. It became my #2 guitar pretty quickly. Great neck and very playable. Great recording guitar!
I've been buying Squires and Mexican Fenders and upgrading them for other players for this very reason. I've gravitated to PRS and custom guitars over the years. My so-called Fenders are custom Warmoth jobs. Hey, to be honest it was hit or miss back in the day(50+yr. player). Production methods have improved but the quality of the components has suffered. Even PRS buy Chinc bridges. I bought one for $55 from Taiwan
The Squire Tele is one of my very favorite guitars.
Are Squiers better than Fenders? Yes, but so are nearly everything else! Fender stopped making high quality.electric guitars when they closed Fullerton. Gibson hasn't made an LP of value approaching their exhorbitant prices since they left Kalamazoo.
My 30th Anniversary 52 Tele (1st re-issue) is the best Fender to ever come out of Fullerton. I have 2 Affinity Indonesian Cort Strats which I learned to slightly mod; fret-edge smoothing, proper 3-spring full-float trem, CTS pots, Mallory Orange Drop caps & treble bleeds, WBW perloid pickguards, copper shielding & 1 intonation-correcting neck-wedge. Together less cash (but much labour-of-love) than ONE North American Strat, but both are set up to out-perform the best players of any Fender at any price.
Even with her high E wound backwards, after the first stroke of shiny black Epiphone LP100 I KNEW I HAD TO HAVE HER. I talked the pawnshop person down from $99 to $80. Since she was the best playing guitar I ever played, it took me almost a week before I could change her strings without worrying about messing up her perfect setup.
I installed CTS pots, Mallory Orange drop caps, treble-bleed resistors (as with my Strats), switchcraft switch, Chinese Epiphone nickle plated HB pickups, Grover 18:1s with ceramic (black) keystone knobs, Dunlop straplocks, D'Addario 10-46s and her proudly-emblazoned EPIPHONE plush-fitted, 5-latch Toltex case. I now have the best customized perfectly-playing Les Paul ever concieved for less than 1/3 the cost of any Gibson LP with no case.
When I see somebody playing a Corona Strat, or a Nashville LP, I feel sorry for them for having more money.than brains.
The J Mascis Squier Jazzmaster is an incredible guitar...would like to see you do a video on it.
This! ...and the Deluxe Jazzmaster, which is the same guitar with different colour and no J.Mascis name on it. Sadly they don't manufacture those anymore. One of the best jazzmaster style guitars I've ever played!
@@bassojasso would you recommend it over the Vintage modified jaguar
@@ariqdaiyan2013 I wouldn't compare those two. Way different pickups, bridge and scale length. For jazzmasters, J.Mascis and deluxe are better built instruments than VM:s.
I own a Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster and I am very happy with it .... great playability and tone for an inexpensive guitar that looks sounds and plays like a 2000 dollar guitar ....
Squier needs to bring back the showmaster.
There's already the Squier Contemporary Active Stratocaster which I think is beautiful although I've never tried one.
Fender needs to as well. I have a 2006 Fender Showmaster, and I absolutely love it. If that got a re-issue, I probably would buy it.
Agreed I found one at my local store
Off topic but interesting:
Lately I have been looking into Japanese made Strats. Modern and 80’s models. Folks have mentioned that although high in quality, they play and sound different than an American strat. I had an 83’ American strat for several years, and it always felt different to me as well. Solidly built, but different than any of the other strats I’ve had (had dozens; US standard, US Custom Shop, MIM, Squier, US signature, new, old etc).
Also the New Jags with Block inlays look amazing. Some new pickups would give you a damn fine instrument.
I own 11 guitars,from fender,Ibanez,PRS, Schecter and Squier,and my go to guitar is a white contemporary Squier which is my cheapest guitar and the only thing I changed was the tuners,other than the tuners it is stock and I love it!Also got a Squier 70s classic in red burst and that is also one of my favourites had to do a little fret work on it but other than that it plays like butter!
just bought a vm jazzmaster and im officially in love lmao
Faulheit do you mean the squier? Is it good i will buy it too!
@@musdg864 ye it's great
@@musdg864 I also just bought one recently, it's totally worth it. Solid from tip to tail
I just bought two new Indonesian Classic Vibes and they are far superior to my Chinese Classic Vibes. The Indonesian have an incredible fret dressing and fret fit. Neck pocket fit on Squiers and gaps are very tight.
If squires have the same soft metal frets and saddles, they will have to be replaced sooner than fender's. Same for the cheap switches.
For a $250 to $400 price difference, I don't mind replacing a $9 switch. Some of the better Squires already come with upgraded electronics. I have both Fenders and Squires and haven't noticed any difference in the softness of the fret wire, and I prefer the tall thin frets or jumbo frets to the medium jumbo found on most Fenders.
Agreed! My Squier modified Strat with lipstick tube pickups plays better than my Made in Mexico Blacktop Strat. The neck feels better as do the frets. I had it set up by a pro-shop and they told me many pros are using the made in Indonesia Squier necks. Also, I had to have a third single coil pickup
(LACE sensor chrome dome reverse wound pickup) to the Blacktop nd have it rewired. The volume drop between single coil and dual coil on the original setup was objectionable. This by the way was the first Fender set up this way since I asked Fender why this was a problem. Shoirtly after, Fender ofered, for a while, a similar setup.
I have a CV Squier Tele and it is a very nice guitar.
i had a CV P Bass first, then a Strat, then a Tele. i bought them within months when they came out. I sold them all at some point, and missed every one. After waiting and hoping I got another CV tele on craigslist two days ago, and it's bee so good to have one back in my lineup. it's the best telecaster for less than a grand, ALL DAY. Every single one was great, i really don't understand why they were so competent when the other regular squires really are not. But they really are.
I have a ton of USA made, top quality gear as well and the CV's really hold up super well to most of them. Aside from having very-slightly cheesy tuners, and potentially kind of middling pickups, i really don't know how else they could be better.
Me too! It’s a great instrument, but I’ll probably buy a Mexican tele soon.
@@evanparker just install a beefier trem to give the sound more omph 😊
Can you please tell me the advantage and disadvantage about Squire bullet strat HSS configuration, and Squire Affinity strat HSS configuration. About the good things and the weakest point on those guitars, and about the each and every parts on those guitars. Every detail about those guitars. I want to known it all. Please. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Wow I just got the mustang brand new at a local guitar shop for $150
@@void0094 my favorite out of the few i have
Disagree. I've played tons of squiers, MIM, and American strats. While the squires and MIM are very good today vs. decades past, they still, by and large, don't quite match the American versions although the closer they are to the borders, the more they are alike. For example, the classic vibe series to an entry MIM. The feel is typically not there and you have to "mod" them in one or more ways. A friend of mine spent hundreds upgrading a squire to "American Specs" including custom shop pickups and he ended up selling it. It just never got to the level his American Standard one was at.
Have the squier 72 thinline tele.. quality is pretty amazing at any price point..
head's up, the Jazzmaster chapter is missing for the 4:45 timestamp (both the Telecaster deluxe and the Jazzmaster are labelled as the Fender Telecaster Deluxe chapter)
The fender mustang has a scale length that matches the original Jaguar. The jump from 25.5" to 24" is pretty wild. It feels heavenly.
I have an American Fender Strat and a Squier Classic Vibe Strat. I also have a Mexican Fender Vintera Telecaster and a Squier Classic Vibe 60s Custom Tele. In both cases I prefer the Squier versions not only to play but I believe they also sound better in tone both clean and dirty. The quality and aesthetics of the Squier is equal to that of the Fender. They are not disappointing in any respect.
If you're planning to buy a very low end MIM Fender imho I think you should save money and buy a higher end Squier. I have a Classic Vibe 60s that I loved to death that for some crazy reason I sold off to buy an MIM strat. Big mistake.
I haven't found any Squier that beats MIMs in the above $1000 range though. Even though they might be spec(ed) batter something about the fit and finish I've always found better in MIMs.
I agree. Just buy a Classic Vibe, and put in USA Fender parts. Problem solved.
Even in the comments people can't spell SQUIER correctly. I have had Japanese Squiers, Japanese Fenders, and my current guitars are Squier Classic Vibe. I've never owned an American made or Mexican made Fender. Squiers are great!
"I own a 1997 Korean made Squier Stratocaster and it sounds and plays way better than any US made Fender ive ever played it nails that SRV/ Hendrix tone its got a nice flat 14" finger board radius and extra jumbo frets,only thing ive done is install a custom made bone nut, switchkaft 5 way switch, input jack,and a professional setup and shes amazing"
A bass guitar is way more forgiving that a regular electric guitar . Many not so expensives basses sound absolutely great .
I get the cheap stuff... haven't even had the best stuff in my hands.
I feel awkward with a $2k guitar in my hands. I just can't even enjoy it really.
Some of the extra price is just for the brand name
I have a Squier Strat from the 90s made in Taiwan and I love it tried Fender Strat another’s I was go back to my Squire
I have a Squier Vintage Modified 70s Stratocaster and I just love it!
What about the Squier classic vibe 70s jaguar?
Bone nut verses plastic? What, about $5 difference?
I agree, the Squier Contemporary line, Tele and strat are Excellent. I have the Red sparkle tele with covered humbuckers, and newly acquired Squire contempt strat in black with gold sparkles. The tele is heavy the strat not the 12” radius is perfect. Squire has come up and for 349 are steel deals.
I have the Squire Contemporary HSS Strat and think it a great guitar. I to like the ceramic pickups.
Is the second position a coil tap of the humbucker?
I've examined my HSS wiring harness and it has one hot lead (red) to the switch and one to ground (v-pot). It appears they may have tied the 2 other leads together as there is a bulge in the heat shrink that could be where they're taped off. According to all the wiring diagrams I have studied on Auto-Split for the 2nd position those other two leads need to be tied to the switch somewhere. I can definitely detect the quack and volume and tone shift with hum cancel in position two, but not being a wiring expert I cannot verify that the bridge humbucker has been split or tapped. Perhaps someone else here could answer more definitively.
6:39 in the guitar shop it was a choice between this squire and a Mexican standard Stratocaster. I went with fender. Partly because It had a maple neck but really because fender guitars are better
Conbro098 resale is also much better. A $400 Squire will resell for $150 in 10 years. A $1200 American Fender can sell for more than you originally purchased it for in 10 years.
I love my squier which is the last one you discussed. It’s also purple which adds to the aesthetic. The tone is also really nice. The more flat fretboard is a little strange at first, but not a problem.
no Squire is better than Fender.
Squier.
I think they mislabeled the mustang scale length on the vintage modified.
Could anyone let me know if it is actually mistaken? I love mustangs but I dont like that they feel smaller, if they had the same scale as a strat i'd buy one right away tbh
I was going to say the same thing.
@@maximesinatra2321 it's 24", I own one.
I have had a 65, 66, squire and 2015 Mexican mustang but the worst I have played is the new performer USA the neck felt like really cheap and unfinished I couldn't believe how poor it was. My Mexican strategy is better than the squire I had.
@@flapjack413 aght feelsbad, thanks for letting me know man!
I got myself a Squier strat CV 60's and holy moly it's SO good
I completely agree on everything you mentioned. These Squiers are amazing really.
No they are not,they're still better than most of the overpriced Mexico catalog for sure,these Squiers are on par with other Chinese brands but at a higher price tag because of Fender relationship.
I'll say this much, I will never get rid of my J Mascis Squire, is and will always be my main guitar.
@@shastahagar3058 Cant go wrong with a Vox AC 30.....
@@shastahagar3058 Cant go wrong with a Vox AC 30....
The squirt affinity's thinner body is the way strats should be made
If anyone has a guitar they don't want anymore, please feel free to give one to me
Thanks
Hi, I had the chance to play a Squier Classic Vibes Thinline Tele (exactly the one from your video) vs. a Fender US original in my favorite music store some years ago. And what shall I say? The Squier was performing way better although more than 1.000 Euros cheaper. Bought the Squier of course. Only disadvantage is the PU painted neck. Took some time to get rid of that awkward glossy covering, but finally did it successfully.
Review of Squier Standard Strat please?
Answer: none
(they may be better value but definetely not better than a fender)