The Mexican and US factories are within an hour drive of each other, and both factories share parts, machine tools, materials and processes. My MIM telecaster is every bit as good as either of my US models.
Had to make a choice about 18 months ago. Buy a single US tele or go player and get the strat as well. Went for the two and can't say I've regretted it for one moment. Invested in a good setup on both and they are both absolute keepers.
From your video production to your chord phrasing, everything about this video rocks! Had to rewind the intro to hear it again. I have been playing guitar for over 30 years, and this video gets me excited and makes me wanna grab one of my strats and wail along side it. Instant subscriber here. Thanks!
Actually Mex tele has individual intonations that better than UA tele that has two strings intonations screw and as I said Mex in better it has individual string intonations. That fact No video had mentioned. It's because US is SUPOSEDLY superior then mexican tele. Moreover, no video will Ever say something that isn't good about any guitars, because they're there to promote and not give objective and real critics. That all guitars video do it's there job to Only promote guitars, regardless of some of them saying we're not pay by manufacturer and we buy guitar on our own. That's a lie because if they do that then they would be out of business. That's a there's job to promote regardless what they're saying. End of bs.
I’m very surprised, but I leaned towards the Mexican-made Tele in the side-by-side comparison. There seemed to be a very slight more brightness to it, yet there was a clear, ethereal quality to the American one. Again, I’m very surprised by my opinion here.
That intro is so insanely good. I've listened to it over and over. I've been trying to figure out the lick with my Taylor Acoustic but when you start ripping at the bottom I can't even pick it up LOL. I'm buying a tele this weekend and my goal is to try and play your song best I can. Great info, appreciate it.
I currently have a 2014 MIM standard. It's fit and finish matches all of the USA models. No fret sprout, no finish cracks at the neck joint, everything is aligned perfectly. I made two changes, I installed Vintage 64' pickups, replaced stock tuners with slotted shaft (no lockers needed) and it is perfect.
I've been playing bass for a little over 20 years and for some reason just never learned guitar, and I kick myself for waiting so long because learning to play multiple instruments really helps to become a better musician overall. Anyway, better late than never so I decided to plug that hole a bit and pick up my first guitar and ended up getting the Player Tele because it seemed like a good first guitar that would last awhile and man what a lovely instrument! I'm genuinely blown away by the build quality. It's ridiculously stable! Love it!
I tried the MIM and USA tele's and yes they feel slightly different. I preferred the neck profile of the MIM tele but liked the heel cutaway a lot on the USA version. However there were not enough difference to justify buying the USA tele . I bought the MIM tele and swapped out the tuners to fender locking tuners and the pickups to fender vintage noiseless. I also threw on a set of fender Infinity strap locks. I think the MIM tele is a great guitar with options to modify. This guitar is now my joint favourite guitar, along with my Ibanez JS2450MCP
I own a Pro 2 Strat and just bought a Player Tele and I'm very happy with it. The noticeable difference---apart from being a different model----is the width of the neck. I have smaller hands and reaching all the notes seems to be much easier on the tele. I was very impressed by the overall build quality of the MIM Tele, my only criticism is really the tone knobs and tuners, they seem to be a little on the cheaper side and could potentially need replacing later on. I think tone wise it sounds great to me, however we all know that it is subjective to the player. I play off a Fender Custom 68' and it sounds absolutely magical, lol. The quality those Mexican factories are producing now is pretty impressive, I personally would get a player and utilize the rest of my budget on some really good amps. I forgot to mention that I did in fact get the Player on a killer holiday deal, paid about $700 + tax , saving about nearly $200. Anyway, the Pro 2 strat is a pretty high-quality guitar, however I don't always want to take it around if I'm jamming at my buddies houses, sometimes I worry about dropping it, scratching it, chipping it, getting it stolen, etc. Normally, I wouldn't care as much, but for the price of currently $1,700.00, It's become more of my home playing guitar. I think overall, can't go wrong with the Player, still very affordable and sounds great, plus It seems to be an easily upgradable guitar, probably save more money by buying different pickups and installing them yourself, along with maybe the bridge, tuners and knobs. Well, to each their own.
I have both. I have a Player Plus and a 75th Anniversary American model. I prefer the sound of the US version, it’s just a little brighter but I much prefer to play the Mexican one, the neck is just beautiful and it’s much more in tune!
Wow man, I just found you bro and immediately I'm blown away. These guitars are stunning but you are a truly great player. So much feel. Such dimension in your playing. Hard to find
Hey man, good video and sweet playing! I own an Am Pro 2 and recently got a used Highway One as a backup, also tried a few Player Series ones at my local music store. All points you make are spot on; the Am Pro 2 feels a tiny bit better which I contribute to the neck: the rolled off fingerboard edges, the finish and the Deep C profile feel very satisfying and inviting to play, the guitar feels very broken in when you pick it up. However I believe that this is something you can have your luthier do to your Player Series Tele as well for a lot less money than what you have to spend to get the American one. Also the Am Pro Series has a new style of bridge with the mounting screws sitting behind the string through holes instead of in front, so you can't just go and swap bridges without having to drill new holes. That is something to keep in mind if you ever wanna mod the guitar. I installed a thicker modern Gotoh bridge and had to have new holes drilled. Just food for thought if you like customizing your instruments. So I agree with your conclusion: if you habe the dough, the American Pro 2 is a fantastic choice; however you're not gonna miss out on anything if you buy the Player Series, they are a fantastic bang for your buck and great feeling and sounding as well. Liked and subbed! 🤘🏻
You're not only a great guitarist, but a great musician as well. Stellar playing! Thank you for the thorough review, I think I'll get the Player one sooner rather than wait to save up for the US model!
great review thanks, honestly the player sounds like a gorgeous tele, like its suposed to sound, and beautifully made (i have one). i cant see the point in paying more for the U.S
I brought a player series Strat two years ago and I have no regrets it is an amazing guitar. I am about to buy a player series Telecaster on the strength of my Stratacaster purchase and im confident i will fall in love with a Mexican Telecaster.
Ben, I've watched this video multiple times over the past year. Your playing on that intro is solid. Sometimes I think I'm going back to the video just to hear your intro. BTW, I own the player series tele.
I have a US Professional, a hot rod Partscaster Tele, and a Player series. I love all three. The Player series is awesome and as good as the others. A great deal!
Played both in store and while the player series is a killer guitar the fit and finish on the pro II is definitely noticeable. Not quite worth the price though. Thinking of going with the American performer! Awesome intro btw
Very good honest review. Player is spot on for me, prefer the neck and frets, so kinda weird it’s cheaper, because it’s what neck you prefer. luckily the more expensive one wasn’t the better one for me! The American does look more traditional though if that’s your thing. Mexican used to be a bit cheap hit and miss, think they got it sorted with the Player and it’s closing the gap?
They sound more similar then I would have imagined. If I'd closed my eyes, I wouldn't have been able to guess which is which. Also, that Miami Blue color looks nicer on video than the stock pictures I keep seeing on store websites. Hmm... Might invest in one of these soon.
Thats exactly what I thought as well, I even closed my eyes to see if I would be able to distinguish the tones between the two, nope not even a little bit, if I'm being honest. lol
Thank you for the video!Im from the states and i just got a fender player series special top with fender locking tuners and a really nice hard case for 599. I traded in some old gear at my local music shop . I have a les paul tribute and PRS custom 24. Ive had the Tele 2 days and today was the first day that i really got to play it. I did a slow bluesy chord progression on my looper and ran the tele in neck potion through the Julia and the Slo by Walrus Audi and i had a spiritual experience, i just connected so strongly to this guitar right then and there. Thats the first time thats ever happend. That hasnt hapoend like that with the les paul or prs. I love this guitar! If you get a chance do it. You can modify it over time. If your looking for a guitar that can sound good in any musical genre, this is it. Ive been playing guitar for 26 years , and all i can say about this guitar is WOW!
The same. I have been playing for 30 yerars. I have go gibson, fender and prs. I had the oportunity to play a tell of a friend of mine. I felt the same. This creature sounds like to string, pure string, round, you can perceive clearly each of the notes even when crunchy and it is a perfect cushion to support your voice when singing, highly appreciated from that moment ahead and Im going to get one for me to add to my frinds the electric guitars. And sure, it´s going to be one of my favorite.
Nice vid, well done! I particularly like the American Performer, the cheapest US made tele. The Yosemite pickups in the AP sound fabulous to me. Maybe a good comparison would be Fender Player Plus vs Fender Performer. The pricedifference is quite small, so I think a lot of players toss the coin to go Mex or USA. But the Fender Player (non plus) is a lot of guitar for the money.
I just purchased a Player Plus Nashville Tele as I love the ability to make it also sound a bit like a Strat especially in the 2/4 positions. It is a very versatile instrument. I know there will be purists that only want the two pickup variants, but from a practical standpoint having a wider set of tones is a good thing. The player plus versions also have the rolled fingerboard edges and locking tuners. It also has the push/pull feature to add the neck pickup in the 1/2 positions.
I have a CV 50s and a American performer. They sound completely different... but both insanely good. I would take the classic vibe any day is the week over a lower end player... but I'm sure the player plus is very good. I honestly don't know which of my telecasters sound better...the classic vibe is shockingly that good... just a much brighter snappier tone because of massive neck I think... but built quality on both of mine are astounding. I just ordered a professional in dark night.. I'm very curious to play it next to my others. I really don't think it can sound any better than my other two but I guess we'll see...the push push may be nice to have...who knows. When the CV series is so good no reason to spend more... I just collect guitars and like different tones...
Just played both of them side by side earlier @ GC and the deep c neck on the pro 2 in combination with the tall frets and slightly wider nut actually made it a stretch for my hands after the player. I preferred the player on feel and playability, and was pleasantly surprised over all specially in comparison to the Vintera models.. Some serious lack of quality control there. The player series felt exactly like the american ones in my hand with the satin neck except for the medium jumbo frets and modern c which It turns out my hands preferred. Your first Fender can be tricky , you gota find your size every brand uses different terminology and dimensions.
I’m going to have to spend some time in the store comparing the necks. The Pro II neck feels really, really good, I didn’t compare it to a player unfortunately, was with my son who was looking at the Jazzmaster player. I just grabbed a black tele because it was there and my hands were empty.
Thank you! This was great! I’m a newish player, and just bought a Road Series Martin acoustic (MIM). I was looking for a similar type electric, and the player fits the bill. Your review helped me decide. Thank you!!
That intro sounded incredible! I'm pretty sure I want a Telecaster but am still debating between the American Pro II (for its added Humbucker-like effect) and the Deluxe Nashville (for its Strat-like effect).
@@dingusfuzzklonnkt2755 what wire mob ? I have the Vintera custom with the humbuker in the bridge and it’s going in for an upgrade on the wide range humbucker so if there’s a wire mod I should consider please , tell me. ?
Supernatural playing skills, dude! I have a road-worn series MIM tele from 2018. It's a very faithful recreation of a 50's black guard tele, down to the 7 1/4 radius and three saddle brass, non-compensated bridge. Even a 5 screw pick guard. I wish I could make it sing half as good as you did those two.
I'd love to see a focus group test where they give people these guitars without badges and get em to pick their favourites after a week and see the results.
I went into GuitarGuitar in Camden today and tried out the player, player plus and pro II. My favourite was the player plus so I bought that. I didn’t like the thicker neck on the pro and both the pro and player plus sounder the same to me in person. I couldn’t understand the £1000 premium on the American version at all.
I don't know if that's your own tune you're playing in the intro but if it was, it was just excellent! I really liked it! Very nice playing as well. And frankly, I rather preferred the sound of the Mexican Player. It seemed to have more Tele bite. On my TV, anyway! Cheers!
Amazing playing! I have a player series tele and it just screams. My only complaint is the neck profile, which feels like a toothpick in my hands. But it has an incredible tone and responsiveness that inspires me.
Fantastic job on this video Ben; both on content and production! Awesome audio and video quality. Also very informative and helpful. Is the piece you play in the beginning your own composition? If not, what is it?
I believe the American has rounded fretboard edges and satin finish on the back of the neck, which would change the feel significantly one would assume
I was going to get a Mex tele and have a tech put Seymour Duncan pickups in it. Then I am now looking at the 🇺🇸 professional 2 telecaster because I held one and I knew that this was the 🎸 for me and I won't change anything ( I like the push pull knob). I prefer the thicker neck. There is no comparison between the two 🎸‼️
The richness of harmonics is truly different in the Pro version. Only mix master digging ears can hear at first I think but if you listen carefully anyone can catch it. When you play the same chords in American Pro it lets out some harmonics just as if the octaves or some additional harmonics were played a little. It made the chords more melodic creating that perception because of the definition and the unique color (characteristics) of the pickup. Listen carefully and you'll realize it, people.
I bought the Mexican Tele a while back after comparing the two. The Mexican is the best Tele I've ever had, it sounds great (I love the PUs) and I cannot see any flaws to it. No need to spend your money on the American Tele.
Have to agree I have a Nashville deluxe the older models. When I got it some of the parts have been upgraded I went ahead and made it into a traditional telecaster and switched out the pick ups. And went ahead installed bare knuckle. And love the Tele definitely can hold up to my friends telecaster elite
Great playing! At the beginning of the video I thought the Mexican was the American and vice versa. At the gig, the 6 drunks at the bar arguing about sports are never going to notice the difference.
American ones come with the latest tech, Mexican ones usually have older generation tech and specs but you can’t beat the value for quality in a MIM telecaster
I tried an American Tele and then, I tried a Tele Player and I liked the MIM better ! I bought a MIM and yesterday a late 90s Korean Fender Telecaster Special Edition Custom FMT HH Amber with Seymour Duncan 59 at neck and Pearly Gates at Bridge
more expensive is cheaper, as the Mercedes ad said. When you buy an American, you will get your money back on resale. And your guitar will become a collector's item for sure.
With my experience, player telecasters are your typical workhorse that play well but not “amazing”. Americans feel amazing but feel underwhelming if you’ve already had a cv or player but still plays amazing. My favorite though is a partscaster 😋
Money wise and affordability I bought the MIM Fender Player Telecastor, and I don't regret it. I prefer it over my USA Fender 40th Anniversary Stratocaster for playability and sound.
Great Post Sir! I finally “ pulled the trigger “ on a Tele. I tried out 9 or 10 different Tele’s & Tele Type guitars. At the end of the day, just through feel and sound, I opted for the AM ii in Butterscotch Blonde. I did not wish to spend that much money, nor was I looking for the prestige of owning American. It just ‘ worked ‘ for me. Now……it’s Ramon noodles and hot sauce for the next 4 months. 🤦🏼♂️ 🤣🤣 Cheers Buddy
You're an excellent guitarist, who also makes great videos as well, not to mention that your down to earth analysis of both Telecasters is done without unnecessary superlatives. I have a 2020 Player HH, and it's pretty decent, although the volume pot has a 60 cycle hum below 80%, so I am going to replace the pots and entire wiring harness. However, I bought a Player because I knew I wanted to upgrade the humbuckers to Brandonwound 1959 clones, and get the fretboard leveled and frets dressed, because even the MIA models seem to need a bit of fret leveling sometimes. So, upgrading my Player will probably cost almost as much as a MIA Tele, but, I get the sound I absolutely want for Blues, and my Jazz Studies. However, in another year, or two, when I'm starting to play Jazz a little better, I do plan to put together a Tele Partscaster, with a Fender 12" radius neck, Classic 60s series body, a vintage ashtray bridge with compensated brass saddles, and Lollar Tele Vintage pickups.
Side by side, they were extremely close. For the sake of getting the quintessential Tele, I’d go for the American one for the string-through-body and the ability to use the pickups in series. There’s nothing wrong with the MIM one at all.
Actually, I have a Mexican Tele and I only switch a couple of things...I put on Custom Texas Special pickups and changed the bridge from 6 saddles to the classic 3 saddles... She sounds better than most American Teles! The right players also makes a difference
Great video Ben, and wow there is not much in it from a tone perspective. I felt like you played them a little differently (slight), like you were digging on the Professional series a little more ;-) but hard to say that its twice the guitar for the price!
I spent 20 years playing a US Tele, but my Mexican Player actually manages to nail that Tele sound a few shades better. Only flaw I've found is that wild string bends will fly off the fretboard. As far as this video goes, I didn't dig the muddier tone of the CV Tele. I'm not taking a dump on Squier. I've been eyeing their Paranormal series, and I'll mention that even Fender proper has been unable to match my VM Squier Jazzmaster. It's got the best neck I've ever played on, and the "Duncan Designed" pickups are fantastic for stock pickups. Only flaws are that the jack plate is a touch dodgy, and it's a Jazzmaster with no tremelo, which feels wrong. Perhaps I'll get around to modding it sometime. Oh! And my pick guard yellowed after just a few years, but I think it looks awesome. I would not be disappointed if my newer Player Tele does the same.
Nice playing. Really nicely produced as well. As a left handed player these are basically my only options short of the ultra. I prefer the current colours in the american series but i might just hang on to see what new colours they update to in the player although im not holding my breath as it'll be the usual colours i think.
Hey mate, Steve here in Melbourne. What sort of sound gear were you using for this excellent video? Amazing tones especially at the beginning...cheers.
Great review. Love both teles, it depends on the person. I have a classic vibe thinline telle 60,s , plays great slim neck fits me. Had a mim strat that played great too. Cant beat a good Fender for the money.
There's absolutely no difference between the two tone-wise except for the push pull knob.. which I won't use hardly ever. I just went out and bought a player series tele and I absolutely love it.
I suppose if in the future you wanted to sell it then the USA made one would command a better price. I always buy guitars as keepers and don't think of resale, just tone
Seems like a very honest view. I have a USA Tele and love it but I'm looking for another but price is a factor. I will try both though but thank you. 👍
I bought a Mexican Player series during the lockdown and I'm amazed at how much I love playing it. It's a brilliantly made guitar.
They're great hey!
The Mexican and US factories are within an hour drive of each other, and both factories share parts, machine tools, materials and processes. My MIM telecaster is every bit as good as either of my US models.
If you can get from Corona to Ensenada in an hour you're driving too fast.
Had to make a choice about 18 months ago. Buy a single US tele or go player and get the strat as well. Went for the two and can't say I've regretted it for one moment. Invested in a good setup on both and they are both absolute keepers.
From your video production to your chord phrasing, everything about this video rocks! Had to rewind the intro to hear it again. I have been playing guitar for over 30 years, and this video gets me excited and makes me wanna grab one of my strats and wail along side it. Instant subscriber here. Thanks!
Wow thanks so much for this comment! 🥹
Actually Mex tele has individual intonations that better than UA tele that has two strings intonations screw and as I said Mex in better it has individual string intonations. That fact No video had mentioned. It's because US is SUPOSEDLY superior then mexican tele. Moreover, no video will Ever say something that isn't good about any guitars, because they're there to promote and not give objective and real critics. That all guitars video do it's there job to Only promote guitars, regardless of some of them saying we're not pay by manufacturer and we buy guitar on our own. That's a lie because if they do that then they would be out of business. That's a there's job to promote regardless what they're saying. End of bs.
Holy crap that intro. Amazing. Just ordered a Player Tele after learning on and loving a bullet Tele for 2 years.
Thank you! You’ll really notice the difference!
I’m very surprised, but I leaned towards the Mexican-made Tele in the side-by-side comparison. There seemed to be a very slight more brightness to it, yet there was a clear, ethereal quality to the American one. Again, I’m very surprised by my opinion here.
A fender made in mexico by mexicans or a fender made in the US by mexicans?
Hahahah exactly 🤣
It's not just who it's made by.Its how it's made,the process, amount of time put in,the parts that are used etc.
@@jordanpratt3821 the gap between the two is pretty small
Lol….so true. Still different guitar
@@jldkrank Like the gap between the two factories
That was such a sick song ! I came here for the review and was blown away with the playing and music! Good job man holy
That intro is so insanely good. I've listened to it over and over. I've been trying to figure out the lick with my Taylor Acoustic but when you start ripping at the bottom I can't even pick it up LOL. I'm buying a tele this weekend and my goal is to try and play your song best I can. Great info, appreciate it.
Hahaha thanks so much! Tag me in a video on Instagram once you get the song nailed!
Backing tracks will be added to my Patreon page soon as well…..
I currently have a 2014 MIM standard. It's fit and finish matches all of the USA models. No fret sprout, no finish cracks at the neck joint, everything is aligned perfectly. I made two changes, I installed Vintage 64' pickups, replaced stock tuners with slotted shaft (no lockers needed) and it is perfect.
This guy can make any guitar sound good. Definitely the player that stands out here. Insane performance!!!
I've been playing bass for a little over 20 years and for some reason just never learned guitar, and I kick myself for waiting so long because learning to play multiple instruments really helps to become a better musician overall. Anyway, better late than never so I decided to plug that hole a bit and pick up my first guitar and ended up getting the Player Tele because it seemed like a good first guitar that would last awhile and man what a lovely instrument! I'm genuinely blown away by the build quality. It's ridiculously stable! Love it!
I am absolutely broke and don't plan on buying one of these any time soon but this is the best comparison of these two guitars. Cheers
Haha aren't we all! Thanks heaps!
What bugs me is the fact that the pro doesnt even come with locking tuners..but man does it play amazing!
Agreed . Locking tuners would be great . Gonns put some on my pro2 strat i think .
I tried the MIM and USA tele's and yes they feel slightly different. I preferred the neck profile of the MIM tele but liked the heel cutaway a lot on the USA version. However there were not enough difference to justify buying the USA tele . I bought the MIM tele and swapped out the tuners to fender locking tuners and the pickups to fender vintage noiseless. I also threw on a set of fender Infinity strap locks. I think the MIM tele is a great guitar with options to modify. This guitar is now my joint favourite guitar, along with my Ibanez JS2450MCP
That intro was absolutely spectacular, bravo!
Not
I own a Pro 2 Strat and just bought a Player Tele and I'm very happy with it. The noticeable difference---apart from being a different model----is the width of the neck. I have smaller hands and reaching all the notes seems to be much easier on the tele. I was very impressed by the overall build quality of the MIM Tele, my only criticism is really the tone knobs and tuners, they seem to be a little on the cheaper side and could potentially need replacing later on. I think tone wise it sounds great to me, however we all know that it is subjective to the player. I play off a Fender Custom 68' and it sounds absolutely magical, lol. The quality those Mexican factories are producing now is pretty impressive, I personally would get a player and utilize the rest of my budget on some really good amps. I forgot to mention that I did in fact get the Player on a killer holiday deal, paid about $700 + tax , saving about nearly $200. Anyway, the Pro 2 strat is a pretty high-quality guitar, however I don't always want to take it around if I'm jamming at my buddies houses, sometimes I worry about dropping it, scratching it, chipping it, getting it stolen, etc. Normally, I wouldn't care as much, but for the price of currently $1,700.00, It's become more of my home playing guitar. I think overall, can't go wrong with the Player, still very affordable and sounds great, plus It seems to be an easily upgradable guitar, probably save more money by buying different pickups and installing them yourself, along with maybe the bridge, tuners and knobs. Well, to each their own.
I have both. I have a Player Plus and a 75th Anniversary American model. I prefer the sound of the US version, it’s just a little brighter but I much prefer to play the Mexican one, the neck is just beautiful and it’s much more in tune!
That opening song unlocked memories I didn’t even know I had. Amazing job
Thanks heaps Devyn!
Wow man, I just found you bro and immediately I'm blown away. These guitars are stunning but you are a truly great player. So much feel. Such dimension in your playing. Hard to find
Me ha gustado mucho tu review, muy informativa y sincera. Y la grabación y edición es muy buena también. Gracias.
Hey man, good video and sweet playing!
I own an Am Pro 2 and recently got a used Highway One as a backup, also tried a few Player Series ones at my local music store.
All points you make are spot on; the Am Pro 2 feels a tiny bit better which I contribute to the neck: the rolled off fingerboard edges, the finish and the Deep C profile feel very satisfying and inviting to play, the guitar feels very broken in when you pick it up.
However I believe that this is something you can have your luthier do to your Player Series Tele as well for a lot less money than what you have to spend to get the American one.
Also the Am Pro Series has a new style of bridge with the mounting screws sitting behind the string through holes instead of in front, so you can't just go and swap bridges without having to drill new holes. That is something to keep in mind if you ever wanna mod the guitar. I installed a thicker modern Gotoh bridge and had to have new holes drilled. Just food for thought if you like customizing your instruments.
So I agree with your conclusion: if you habe the dough, the American Pro 2 is a fantastic choice; however you're not gonna miss out on anything if you buy the Player Series, they are a fantastic bang for your buck and great feeling and sounding as well.
Liked and subbed! 🤘🏻
You're not only a great guitarist, but a great musician as well. Stellar playing! Thank you for the thorough review, I think I'll get the Player one sooner rather than wait to save up for the US model!
great review thanks, honestly the player sounds like a gorgeous tele, like its suposed to sound, and beautifully made (i have one). i cant see the point in paying more for the U.S
Came for the guitar comparison. Now want to know if this guy makes his own music because I loved the play through!!
Hey man thanks! All the tracks on my channel are originals! 😊
I brought a player series Strat two years ago and I have no regrets it is an amazing guitar. I am about to buy a player series Telecaster on the strength of my Stratacaster purchase and im confident i will fall in love with a Mexican Telecaster.
Ben, I've watched this video multiple times over the past year. Your playing on that intro is solid. Sometimes I think I'm going back to the video just to hear your intro. BTW, I own the player series tele.
I have a US Professional, a hot rod Partscaster Tele, and a Player series. I love all three. The Player series is awesome and as good as the others. A great deal!
Agreed!
Dang homie. Came for the review stayed for the sick tonez
Thanks!
Holy sh*t, that was some awesome playing !
Very good video and audio too. Liked and subscribed.
I recently got a Player Tele and I absolutely love it.
Thanks so much! They're so good!
This video autoplayed and when the intro started going I had to find out who was playing. Very beautiful
Great video on this! MIM is definitely a great value. My wife and I really enjoyed this video as well as your JM vs. Jag comparison. +2 subscribers!
Thanks so much!
Played both in store and while the player series is a killer guitar the fit and finish on the pro II is definitely noticeable. Not quite worth the price though. Thinking of going with the American performer! Awesome intro btw
Totally agree 🙏🏼
Thanks!
Very good honest review. Player is spot on for me, prefer the neck and frets, so kinda weird it’s cheaper, because it’s what neck you prefer. luckily the more expensive one wasn’t the better one for me! The American does look more traditional though if that’s your thing. Mexican used to be a bit cheap hit and miss, think they got it sorted with the Player and it’s closing the gap?
I appreciate this video, brother. Thank you. Beautiful intro playing btw.
I bought a mim a few months ago, my dreams came true!
So glad!
They sound more similar then I would have imagined. If I'd closed my eyes, I wouldn't have been able to guess which is which.
Also, that Miami Blue color looks nicer on video than the stock pictures I keep seeing on store websites. Hmm... Might invest in one of these soon.
Thats exactly what I thought as well, I even closed my eyes to see if I would be able to distinguish the tones between the two, nope not even a little bit, if I'm being honest. lol
Thank you for the video!Im from the states and i just got a fender player series special top with fender locking tuners and a really nice hard case for 599. I traded in some old gear at my local music shop . I have a les paul tribute and PRS custom 24. Ive had the Tele 2 days and today was the first day that i really got to play it. I did a slow bluesy chord progression on my looper and ran the tele in neck potion through the Julia and the Slo by Walrus Audi and i had a spiritual experience, i just connected so strongly to this guitar right then and there. Thats the first time thats ever happend. That hasnt hapoend like that with the les paul or prs. I love this guitar! If you get a chance do it. You can modify it over time. If your looking for a guitar that can sound good in any musical genre, this is it. Ive been playing guitar for 26 years , and all i can say about this guitar is WOW!
The same. I have been playing for 30 yerars. I have go gibson, fender and prs. I had the oportunity to play a tell of a friend of mine. I felt the same. This creature sounds like to string, pure string, round, you can perceive clearly each of the notes even when crunchy and it is a perfect cushion to support your voice when singing, highly appreciated from that moment ahead and Im going to get one for me to add to my frinds the electric guitars. And sure, it´s going to be one of my favorite.
Nice vid, well done! I particularly like the American Performer, the cheapest US made tele. The Yosemite pickups in the AP sound fabulous to me. Maybe a good comparison would be Fender Player Plus vs Fender Performer. The pricedifference is quite small, so I think a lot of players toss the coin to go Mex or USA. But the Fender Player (non plus) is a lot of guitar for the money.
Yeah if I can get my hands on one! Great idea!
I really like the Yosemite pickups too. I also like stroopwafels.
I just purchased a Player Plus Nashville Tele as I love the ability to make it also sound a bit like a Strat especially in the 2/4 positions. It is a very versatile instrument. I know there will be purists that only want the two pickup variants, but from a practical standpoint having a wider set of tones is a good thing. The player plus versions also have the rolled fingerboard edges and locking tuners. It also has the push/pull feature to add the neck pickup in the 1/2 positions.
I just ordered the AP in vintage white. Hope the quality control is better than the player series (which is garbage).
I have a CV 50s and a American performer. They sound completely different... but both insanely good. I would take the classic vibe any day is the week over a lower end player... but I'm sure the player plus is very good. I honestly don't know which of my telecasters sound better...the classic vibe is shockingly that good... just a much brighter snappier tone because of massive neck I think... but built quality on both of mine are astounding. I just ordered a professional in dark night.. I'm very curious to play it next to my others. I really don't think it can sound any better than my other two but I guess we'll see...the push push may be nice to have...who knows. When the CV series is so good no reason to spend more... I just collect guitars and like different tones...
Just played both of them side by side earlier @ GC and the deep c neck on the pro 2 in combination with the tall frets and slightly wider nut actually made it a stretch for my hands after the player. I preferred the player on feel and playability, and was pleasantly surprised over all specially in comparison to the Vintera models.. Some serious lack of quality control there. The player series felt exactly like the american ones in my hand with the satin neck except for the medium jumbo frets and modern c which It turns out my hands preferred. Your first Fender can be tricky , you gota find your size every brand uses different terminology and dimensions.
I’m going to have to spend some time in the store comparing the necks. The Pro II neck feels really, really good, I didn’t compare it to a player unfortunately, was with my son who was looking at the Jazzmaster player. I just grabbed a black tele because it was there and my hands were empty.
I am very satisfied and luv my black Player Tele. I did put on locking tuners.
You did such a good job promoting the Fender Telecaster that Fender should hire you.Then relocate you.And pay you well.
Hahaha thank you 🙏🏽
Thank you! This was great! I’m a newish player, and just bought a Road Series Martin acoustic (MIM). I was looking for a similar type electric, and the player fits the bill. Your review helped me decide. Thank you!!
Awesome! Thank you!
That intro sounded incredible! I'm pretty sure I want a Telecaster but am still debating between the American Pro II (for its added Humbucker-like effect) and the Deluxe Nashville (for its Strat-like effect).
Thanks! It’s a tough choice!
Get the deluxe and have the wiring mod done for $40
@@dingusfuzzklonnkt2755 what wire mob ? I have the Vintera custom with the humbuker in the bridge and it’s going in for an upgrade on the wide range humbucker so if there’s a wire mod I should consider please , tell me. ?
Thanks for the great review!! I have a player series on the way 👍
No worries! Hope you enjoy it!
Nice playing at the start Ben. The kind of sound that should be on the Radio every day but isn't.
So kind, thank you!
Great review Ben.
Great review, thanks dude
You’re welcome!
Supernatural playing skills, dude! I have a road-worn series MIM tele from 2018. It's a very faithful recreation of a 50's black guard tele, down to the 7 1/4 radius and three saddle brass, non-compensated bridge. Even a 5 screw pick guard. I wish I could make it sing half as good as you did those two.
Beautiful playing! Such a great vibe.
Thanks!
I'd love to see a focus group test where they give people these guitars without badges and get em to pick their favourites after a week and see the results.
GOOD idea!
I went into GuitarGuitar in Camden today and tried out the player, player plus and pro II. My favourite was the player plus so I bought that. I didn’t like the thicker neck on the pro and both the pro and player plus sounder the same to me in person. I couldn’t understand the £1000 premium on the American version at all.
Really great review/comparison! Well done!
I don't know if that's your own tune you're playing in the intro but if it was, it was just excellent! I really liked it! Very nice playing as well. And frankly, I rather preferred the sound of the Mexican Player. It seemed to have more Tele bite. On my TV, anyway! Cheers!
Amazing playing! I have a player series tele and it just screams. My only complaint is the neck profile, which feels like a toothpick in my hands. But it has an incredible tone and responsiveness that inspires me.
Thanks! Yeah the player necks are definitely a bit thin
My Review is little bit late, but in my opinion a nice and honest review.👍🏼
Fantastic job on this video Ben; both on content and production! Awesome audio and video quality. Also very informative and helpful. Is the piece you play in the beginning your own composition? If not, what is it?
Thanks so much! Yep, I wrote it for this video!
@@BenNeal It available on Spotify or Apple Music? Your music is great! I would buy it.
I believe the American has rounded fretboard edges and satin finish on the back of the neck, which would change the feel significantly one would assume
That's true, but you can have a good luthier round the fretboards in about a half an hour. Cost is about $75 tops.
Yeah I gotta be honest, it didn't really stick out to me... I should have mentioned it though!
Nope. The player has a satin back neck, gloss front, but no rolled edges.However, the Player neck feels really nice.
player sounded good actually I was surprised but theres something extra to the pro, extra warmth, richer and rounder to me.
🙏🏽
I was going to get a Mex tele and have a tech put Seymour Duncan pickups in it. Then I am now looking at the 🇺🇸 professional 2 telecaster because I held one and I knew that this was the 🎸 for me and I won't change anything ( I like the push pull knob). I prefer the thicker neck. There is no comparison between the two 🎸‼️
The richness of harmonics is truly different in the Pro version. Only mix master digging ears can hear at first I think but if you listen carefully anyone can catch it. When you play the same chords in American Pro it lets out some harmonics just as if the octaves or some additional harmonics were played a little. It made the chords more melodic creating that perception because of the definition and the unique color (characteristics) of the pickup. Listen carefully and you'll realize it, people.
This is seriously like one of the best tele tones I've heard. Please share details on this tone with me and I will love you forever!
I have an American Special and the pro 2. And the pro 2 does feel better and sounds better. Plus the push push gives you another time option.
the intro track is giving Knuckle Puck vibes. Dig it!
Great video!
Thank you!
Excellent video thank you. I ordered the made in Mexico players series. It intrigues me because it has alnico 5 pickups.
Great informative video that told me everything I needed to know.....I've gone for the Player !
Epic!
I bought the Mexican Tele a while back after comparing the two. The Mexican is the best Tele I've ever had, it sounds great (I love the PUs) and I cannot see any flaws to it. No need to spend your money on the American Tele.
Epic! Yep the Mexican Tele is absolutely fantastic!
Have to agree I have a Nashville deluxe the older models. When I got it some of the parts have been upgraded I went ahead and made it into a traditional telecaster and switched out the pick ups. And went ahead installed bare knuckle. And love the Tele definitely can hold up to my friends telecaster elite
Great playing! At the beginning of the video I thought the Mexican was the American and vice versa. At the gig, the 6 drunks at the bar arguing about sports are never going to notice the difference.
Thank you! 10000%!!!
Abso fukin loootly
Got that right!
American ones come with the latest tech, Mexican ones usually have older generation tech and specs but you can’t beat the value for quality in a MIM telecaster
Agreed 🙏🏼
I tried an American Tele and then, I tried a Tele Player and I liked the MIM better ! I bought a MIM and yesterday a late 90s Korean Fender Telecaster Special Edition Custom FMT HH Amber with Seymour Duncan 59 at neck and Pearly Gates at Bridge
I have a Mexico Tele. I put American made vintage pickups in it, and i love it!
The American sounds richer in the midrange. The Mexican sounds more like a vintage telecaster in the top end
Upgrade the pickups and it will sound even better. Mim teles and strats are better then the usa standards of the 90’s these days
more expensive is cheaper, as the Mercedes ad said. When you buy an American, you will get your money back on resale. And your guitar will become a collector's item for sure.
Yea, a pro II isn't gonna become a collectors item.
With my experience, player telecasters are your typical workhorse that play well but not “amazing”. Americans feel amazing but feel underwhelming if you’ve already had a cv or player but still plays amazing.
My favorite though is a partscaster 😋
Money wise and affordability I bought the MIM Fender Player Telecastor, and I don't regret it. I prefer it over my USA Fender 40th Anniversary Stratocaster for playability and sound.
Came for the review, but that opening tune stole the show!👍
Great Post Sir!
I finally “ pulled the trigger “ on a Tele.
I tried out 9 or 10 different Tele’s & Tele Type guitars. At the end of the day, just through feel and sound, I opted for the AM ii in Butterscotch Blonde. I did not wish to spend that much money, nor was I looking for the prestige of owning American.
It just ‘ worked ‘ for me.
Now……it’s Ramon noodles and hot sauce for the next 4 months.
🤦🏼♂️
🤣🤣
Cheers Buddy
You're an excellent guitarist, who also makes great videos as well, not to mention that your down to earth analysis of both Telecasters is done without unnecessary superlatives.
I have a 2020 Player HH, and it's pretty decent, although the volume pot has a 60 cycle hum below 80%, so I am going to replace the pots and entire wiring harness.
However, I bought a Player because I knew I wanted to upgrade the humbuckers to Brandonwound 1959 clones, and get the fretboard leveled and frets dressed, because even the MIA models seem to need a bit of fret leveling sometimes. So, upgrading my Player will probably cost almost as much as a MIA Tele, but, I get the sound I absolutely want for Blues, and my Jazz Studies.
However, in another year, or two, when I'm starting to play Jazz a little better, I do plan to put together a Tele Partscaster, with a Fender 12" radius neck, Classic 60s series body, a vintage ashtray bridge with compensated brass saddles, and Lollar Tele Vintage pickups.
That intro track is so damn good!
Nice review. Maybe compare the Pro II to the American Performer sometime.
Side by side, they were extremely close. For the sake of getting the quintessential Tele, I’d go for the American one for the string-through-body and the ability to use the pickups in series. There’s nothing wrong with the MIM one at all.
They both have string-through bodies but yeah the pro II does have nicer pickups indeed.
They’re both really great that’s for sure!
Great demo. Great playing.
brilliant playing, while sliding across the frets which one feels more comfortable? because both have different fret sizes
Sounds like Plini, awesome playing. Once again, Telecaster rules!
Thanks for this, Ben. Really helpful.
Actually, I have a Mexican Tele and I only switch a couple of things...I put on Custom Texas Special pickups and changed the bridge from 6 saddles to the classic 3 saddles...
She sounds better than most American Teles!
The right players also makes a difference
Brilliant video, is the finish on the neck the same on both?
Great video Ben, and wow there is not much in it from a tone perspective. I felt like you played them a little differently (slight), like you were digging on the Professional series a little more ;-) but hard to say that its twice the guitar for the price!
Thanks Matthew! Yeah not much in it hey. And yeah that might have been the case 😂
I bought the MIM. A BLOODY BEAUTIFUL INSTRUMENT.
SO GOOD.
I spent 20 years playing a US Tele, but my Mexican Player actually manages to nail that Tele sound a few shades better. Only flaw I've found is that wild string bends will fly off the fretboard. As far as this video goes, I didn't dig the muddier tone of the CV Tele. I'm not taking a dump on Squier. I've been eyeing their Paranormal series, and I'll mention that even Fender proper has been unable to match my VM Squier Jazzmaster. It's got the best neck I've ever played on, and the "Duncan Designed" pickups are fantastic for stock pickups. Only flaws are that the jack plate is a touch dodgy, and it's a Jazzmaster with no tremelo, which feels wrong. Perhaps I'll get around to modding it sometime. Oh! And my pick guard yellowed after just a few years, but I think it looks awesome. I would not be disappointed if my newer Player Tele does the same.
Yeah man I've got a VM thinline tele and at times I feel like its my fav guitar,and that's among some heavy competition.
Nice playing. Really nicely produced as well. As a left handed player these are basically my only options short of the ultra. I prefer the current colours in the american series but i might just hang on to see what new colours they update to in the player although im not holding my breath as it'll be the usual colours i think.
Hey mate, Steve here in Melbourne. What sort of sound gear were you using for this excellent video? Amazing tones especially at the beginning...cheers.
Great review. Love both teles, it depends on the person. I have a classic vibe thinline telle 60,s , plays great slim neck fits me. Had a mim strat that played great too. Cant beat a good Fender for the money.
Really well done video!
The pickups in series "that's something you only get on the Professional": yes and that's also something that you can do yourself in 10 minutes.
This video is too good!!
Thank you!
There's absolutely no difference between the two tone-wise except for the push pull knob.. which I won't use hardly ever. I just went out and bought a player series tele and I absolutely love it.
So good!
I suppose if in the future you wanted to sell it then the USA made one would command a better price. I always buy guitars as keepers and don't think of resale, just tone
So did I, just bought my new player series and what a workhorse of a guitar . This thing covers everything from blues to old country . Love it !
The pro sounds better to me
Seems like a very honest view. I have a USA Tele and love it but I'm looking for another but price is a factor. I will try both though but thank you. 👍
Great video. What amp(s) are you playing through here?
Thank you! All tones from the Strymon Iridium 😊