Squier Surpassing Fender Guitars In Quality?

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  • Опубліковано 22 гру 2024

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  • @improvewitherror
    @improvewitherror Рік тому +550

    I went to Guitar Center a couple of weeks ago to buy a new Fender Strat, spent about two hours playing all the Fenders and some other brands. I kept coming back to the Squier 40th Anniversary Strat in Satin Seafoam Green. The neck is amazing (satin finish, rolled finger board), the action was great, and has killer looks. It played and felt better than every other guitar there, so I bought it instead. I really like the sound of the pickups as well. I really wanted a Fender but just couldn't justify paying more for something that didn't seem like it was worth paying a lot more for it. I don't know if I got lucky and found a diamond, but if they are all like the one I got it is amazing.

    • @stallionstudios
      @stallionstudios Рік тому +18

      Yeah those 40th annis a slick. Would love to get a strat and drop a rails in the bridge. Good to go!

    • @RepaidGold58
      @RepaidGold58 Рік тому +30

      Found a squire 40th anniversary telecaster. Smooth as butter, couldnt tell the difference between that and the American performer other than the price tag

    • @TheWarduke1972
      @TheWarduke1972 Рік тому +12

      Yep. They are real nice fiddles. The Squier classic vibe 60’s and 70s ones I had were awesome also.

    • @TheWarduke1972
      @TheWarduke1972 Рік тому +4

      @@stallionstudios I had the red one and put in a Seymour Duncan lil’ screamin demon and sounded great. Shoulda kept that guitar.

    • @incredifunk
      @incredifunk Рік тому +5

      They're nice, yes. Only drawback is the Indian laurel fretboard

  • @jpetes9046
    @jpetes9046 Рік тому +10

    Phil, what a stand-up guy you are, I mean it! You borrowed that guys guitar, and you put a ton of upgrades in it for him as a thank you! That is old school honorable behavior, brother!

  • @5150show
    @5150show Рік тому +22

    Classic vibes that were made in China from 2008 -2014 were some of the best guitars you could ever buy . I’ve got a CV60 strat , 50s Tele and I had the 50s strat .

    • @Zoso981
      @Zoso981 Рік тому +3

      You're right. I've got the CV 50's Tele, and it's fantastic. And I bought it used for only $250

    • @123uzuz
      @123uzuz Рік тому +1

      😂😂😂😂

    • @jimmy5634
      @jimmy5634 Рік тому +1

      The ones made in Indonesia today are just as good.

    • @EarlyCyler-ue1iz
      @EarlyCyler-ue1iz 9 місяців тому

      Even better it doesn’t say CHINA on the headstock

    • @terryd4025
      @terryd4025 5 місяців тому +1

      Yep...got the Blackguard 50s CV from that time period ...its a belter... My bandmate bought a Squier Tele CV last year (a 2022 version), I played it - didn't sound near as good or play so well....

  • @christianmcintire9864
    @christianmcintire9864 Рік тому +12

    I bought one of these just because I wanted another Strat, and I liked the options (and the surf green color) and aside from the fret polishing issue, it's fantastic.

  • @jleighwolfe
    @jleighwolfe Рік тому +137

    I also gotta say, ive been following you for quite a while now, and i love how far these videos have come. More in depth, and as you acquire more knowledge over the years, you pass it on to us, and im forever grateful. Most informative gear channel on YT.

    • @musstta01
      @musstta01 Рік тому

      @Jake Football that "because" is not a reason. Give reasons.

    • @rockerneverdie1
      @rockerneverdie1 Рік тому

      @@musstta01he doesn't need to lmao

  • @TaiChiBeMe
    @TaiChiBeMe Рік тому +43

    I purchased a Ruby Red 40th year anniversary Squire (also a green tele 40th) for my two grandsons. I thought that one day... perhaps 10 - 15 years from now, when I'm gone, they might like getting something from their granddad. The strap button on the strat on the one I got is also off-center installed, so it looks intentional.

    • @Joe-mz6dc
      @Joe-mz6dc Рік тому +1

      Excellent future gift!

    • @QS-si3cq
      @QS-si3cq Рік тому +2

      *Squier, not "Squire."

    • @TheDarthsenso
      @TheDarthsenso Рік тому

      i also have the ruby red one and the strap button is off-center.

    • @TaiChiBeMe
      @TaiChiBeMe Рік тому

      I stand corrected. @@QS-si3cq

  • @achimdg6335
    @achimdg6335 Рік тому +22

    I like that you demonstrate the middle position.
    Some guitar youtubers leave out the middle position, but it's got such a nice sound, you should not leave it out!

  • @davedavid7061
    @davedavid7061 Рік тому +65

    I bought this online when the price was $600. I wanted it because of the block inlays. I think if I played it in store first I would have passed. I've grown to like it.BTW. my strap button is centered. Fret ends were nicely rounded over also

    • @TheBcoolGuy
      @TheBcoolGuy Рік тому +1

      I love block inlays too. Looks powerful and electrified. But I'm just playing an old 22-fret B.C. Rich Warlock from 2011 as it stands. With how little I play, I don't need anything more anyway.

    • @richeyweinstein7706
      @richeyweinstein7706 3 місяці тому

      .......ah, yeah...likewise, I paid the $599 for the Sherwood Green Tele with the Gold.....but, to make me feel better, I bought the Ruby Red with Gold Strat...at half that price, new.....so as to average out!....if that makes any sense!.....it made me feel better. lol.

    • @theelodgeovkeku
      @theelodgeovkeku 2 місяці тому

      paying a prettier penny to have chunks of toilet seat embedded to your rosewood fretboard is rock'n'roll 😎👌🏻

    • @davedavid7061
      @davedavid7061 2 місяці тому +1

      @@theelodgeovkeku all right Mary, settle down

    • @theelodgeovkeku
      @theelodgeovkeku 2 місяці тому

      @@davedavid7061 I'm not hatin', just pointing out the irony of it all.
      Now PRS birds...

  • @metroquadri457
    @metroquadri457 Рік тому +17

    Thank you for the great video! I have the same guitar and the straps are mounted identical. Also hated the gloss on the back so i got rid of it and in my opinion its feels a lot better to play now.

    • @jleighwolfe
      @jleighwolfe Рік тому +2

      I sanded off the gloss finish on my Squier baritone tele too. So much nicer

  • @BunkMasterFlex77
    @BunkMasterFlex77 Рік тому +534

    Everyone knows that moving the strap button back 5mm not only eliminates neck dive but also doubles your sustain

    • @markoakley4520
      @markoakley4520 Рік тому +18

      Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Good one!

    • @SGdoesit
      @SGdoesit Рік тому +38

      Must be why SGs have the button all the way on the back

    • @michaelsmith2785
      @michaelsmith2785 Рік тому +61

      It's like vinyl tape on a Honda Civic. 20 extra HP!

    • @PantanoHD
      @PantanoHD Рік тому +12

      it also gives you more tone!

    • @henrydiaz720
      @henrydiaz720 Рік тому +5

      😂😂😂

  • @danedearmond4905
    @danedearmond4905 Рік тому +3

    That's nice of you to make those adjustments to his guitar just for letting you review it.
    You're a nice guy Phil (and a great source for honest guitar reviews). Thanks for the video.

  • @KutayYavuzMusic
    @KutayYavuzMusic Рік тому +1

    One thing youtube become is an advertorial video platform. Your channel is one of the few exceptions. You review guitars just to share what you really like. Thanks for the great review. Guitar is super hot btw! Squier has outdone themselves!

  • @TheRealChetManley
    @TheRealChetManley Рік тому +78

    Not many YTers I trust for reviews…you and The Guitaristas are my favorites. Excellent reviews and I always learn something! I’m not a strat fan so I wouldn’t buy something like this, but it does look nice.

    • @mortonwilson795
      @mortonwilson795 Рік тому +3

      With you on that! Phillip and Colin (Guitaristas) have set the bar for informed, honest and fun guitar reviews. So many 'salespersons' out there 'reviewing' stuff . . .

    • @AAllinsonNN
      @AAllinsonNN Рік тому

      @@ThankHank agreed I fucking love him
      And his playing is so realistic but always so good too

    • @voiceofexperience
      @voiceofexperience Рік тому +2

      Col is great, open & sincere, & I really like his playing style.

  • @cwantuch
    @cwantuch Рік тому

    Thanks!

  • @DougZbikowski
    @DougZbikowski Рік тому +5

    Bought a Squier Classic Vibe '70s Telecaster Thinline for $379 on a Musician’s Friend sale sometime back on a whim. I’m not exaggerating when I say the finish, build quality, and even the setup out of the box was some of the best I’ve seen from any sub $1000 guitar I’ve purchased. It quickly became my #2 and has stayed close by ever since. That Thiline can do anything from acoustic to metal….it even tracks well!

  • @picksalot1
    @picksalot1 Рік тому +4

    Cool tip on how to put a groove in the Dremel pad to make polishing the frets easier. Thanks

  • @user-zr2pz8rr2l
    @user-zr2pz8rr2l Рік тому +21

    I love to see these reviews getting so many views and attention, all deserved. You will struggle to find a review as thorough and well spoken, and with as much helpful advice.

  • @norseman61
    @norseman61 Рік тому +2

    I own a 2001 Squier “Standard” Strat (Indonesia), and I’m amazed how “Fenderey” it is. The neck is slightly rolled (on a Squier?), and the Alnico 5 pickups sound good enough to me to not switch them out. The floated 2-point trem works well. The ONLY thing that bugs me is the 41 mm (yes, 41) nut. The neck at the 1st fret is pretty dang narrow. I replaced it with a Tusq, but had to trim off the ends.

  • @suzannecoholic1467
    @suzannecoholic1467 Рік тому +16

    Thanks Phil! I love these videos as they teach me more and more about the workmanship that goes into the instruments you feature. The Geeky Stuff rules!

  • @jackroller8237
    @jackroller8237 Рік тому +3

    A lot of care, passion and love for the instrument...
    Great guitar, great teacher and a great video!!! Way to go....

  • @andysfishingandflytyingcha2310

    The Squire 40th anniversary models are the greatest value for money instruments you can get at the moment. I picked up a Jazzmaster, brand new for a little over £350 in the UK! It's as cool as f..k, sounds amazing, especially the bridge pickup which is super hot.
    The build quality is great with no issues whatsoever. Couldn't be happier.

  • @ericoswood1856
    @ericoswood1856 Рік тому +3

    I bought a Squire Starcaster and I was really impressed with the fit and finish, playability, and the overall tone. The frets on my were done well, maybe because it had a maple fretboard. Great video!

  • @oinkooink
    @oinkooink Рік тому +1

    The last Fender I bought was a 2017 Pro Tele. It had something like 10 to 12 high frets in various places up and down the fret board. Thanks Fender!

  • @danthegeetarman
    @danthegeetarman Рік тому +38

    Would love to see an episode where you get a used guitar and do a full setup and fix whatever needs to be fixed. Most of these new guitars just needs a tweak here or there but the used ones usually need a full truss rod, action, intonation, nut, and other stuff which I would love to see. Thanks for all the cool videos 🙏🙏

    • @TylerJohnstonGuitar
      @TylerJohnstonGuitar Рік тому +3

      Check out Zimm’s Guitars if you haven’t already. He does a ton of videos like that on his channel.

    • @martyshwaartz971
      @martyshwaartz971 Рік тому +3

      It’s nuts, when I was newbie I used think the pricy guitars just played way better. Even though there are still certain advantages to pricy guitars, a good setup brings them super close

    • @Aeon135
      @Aeon135 Рік тому +2

      Check out Phil’s Sharpen My Axe series fir exactly what you’re describing!

  • @jleighwolfe
    @jleighwolfe Рік тому +5

    I love what Squier is doing rn. I have a couple diff ones and theyre really great instruments for the price. I recently got a Squier baritone tele and its my current favorite. I did sand down the back of the neck tho because i hated the gloss finish

    • @drtm1718
      @drtm1718 Рік тому

      The one with P90s? I messed around with one at guitar center when i was done checking out acoustics, and I kinda want one. I played it through a supro delta king 5 watt, and it was lovely.

  • @captainkirk70
    @captainkirk70 Рік тому +7

    Classic Vibes are always the way to go.

    • @captainkirk70
      @captainkirk70 Рік тому

      How much more can full sized pots cost? Its a $500 guitar.

  • @ricrandmfx
    @ricrandmfx Рік тому +4

    1st time viewing your channel. Got to say I found this review very informative & detailed. As a novice guitar builder I definitely learned some good tips!
    Personally I dig the look of a Squire neck with big block inlays & binding. I've put a few of the Indonesian Squire necks on different Fender Jag bodies & really like 'em once they're polished up!

  • @Mionapinyon359
    @Mionapinyon359 Рік тому

    Hi I got a ruby red today , the strap button was the same off centre as that one. Besides that and the typical iffy pots and switch, it is a wonderful guitar. No fret sprout and all frets are level . Next to no relief , string height 1.75- 1.5 plays great. Some flame in the maple.

  • @michaelw6277
    @michaelw6277 Рік тому +10

    I have an Affinity Squier and I’m beyond happy with it. Out of the box it’s obviously lower quality than even this 40th Anni model but with some hands on work addressing the small details that aren’t attended to in the name of keeping the price low it’s a really good instrument.

  • @catmandoodoo7903
    @catmandoodoo7903 Рік тому +1

    I have the ruby one and absolutely love it. Had to change the pickups to a Tonerider City Limits set but it’s now spot on for me.

  • @thehelluvaparty563
    @thehelluvaparty563 Рік тому

    Love my 2022 Squire Classic Vibe 50s. I also have a PRS SE and a G&L Tribute strat. The Squire is my go to.

  • @MindDezign
    @MindDezign Рік тому

    The past two years your guitar playing has improved a lot !
    I've been watching since the beginning.

  • @landonbailey
    @landonbailey Рік тому

    that 40th series is pretty good! I've tried a few

  • @gregs2466
    @gregs2466 Рік тому

    Thanks for this video. I have a Gibson Les Paul, a Fender Tele and Strat. I have noticed both of my Fender were giving me some static in the amp but after watching your video, I used my can of Deoxit and I no longer have any static and it was in the pots. Next is to round off the frets but I do not have a nylon thing to test them. However, running my hand over the fret edges shows that some were sharp and other were not. I have the tool to file them from Ste Mac Fret End Dressing File. Again, thanks.

  • @jaynecobb5774
    @jaynecobb5774 Рік тому +1

    I got a cheap Squire Tele used from GuitarCenter for my nephew to learn on, and I was SHOCKED at how good it is. Plays great, sounds way better than it has any right to, and looks fantastic.

  • @JohnOhkumaThiel
    @JohnOhkumaThiel Рік тому

    3:54 I typically sand the nut down from the bottom so my strings sit nicely on top. This way I only need to adjust the width for my preferred strings, which are 10 to 52 gauge.

  • @Stratsrule
    @Stratsrule Рік тому

    I bought a 2023 Squier classic vibe 60s a few months ago. Put me some hand would 59 pickups and a Mojotone blender solderless wiring harness. CT’s 500k pots and switchcraft 5 way. I love it. It came in waaaaay better condition as far as quality and fretwork that my fender did. I’ve finally accepted that a sticker on one saying fender is nothing more than a decal. I thought I’d never say that lol. I love it!! It’s my number 1 go to now. Selling my fender now.

  • @donyoung7874
    @donyoung7874 Рік тому

    I watched a number of videos years ago about the Squier Classic Vibe Tele and not one had anything bad to say about them. I bought one and I'm glad I did. My only complaint is that it came in either a natural finish or white finish.

  • @rexdarvog
    @rexdarvog Рік тому +17

    When I started to get interested in luthiery, I wanted to make my first guitar sound a little better. It was an Affinity Stratocaster from a starter kit, it had decent hardware and construction, unlike the new Bullet kits. Now the first thing I did was learn how to play better, and the second thing I did was install a 1-meg mini potentiometer on the volume knob. It made those cheaper single coils open up and the guitar almost has this humbucker driving tone, but it's rather different for sure.

  • @richardmerriam7044
    @richardmerriam7044 Рік тому

    I've bought two Squier Classic Vibe instruments. A Mustang Bass (no dead spots), and a Jazzmaster. Great stuff!

  • @charleshuyck6641
    @charleshuyck6641 Рік тому +1

    I just bought my 1st non main name brand guitar a Slash Gold Top Epiphone. I am surprised how well it fairs to even my vintage Gibson's for tone. They have stepped their game up. It looks like Squier is too.

  • @thomastourville1674
    @thomastourville1674 Рік тому +1

    Phil, I have the same Squier guitar and the strap button is centered on mine also plays perfectly the only thing I found wrong is the pic guard edge is very sharp and you better be careful when cleaning as you will cut yourself on it.

  • @padrejuan7763
    @padrejuan7763 Рік тому

    !!! Greetings from Montréal, Québec, Canada !!! I have been watching your videos for a few years now and ALWAYS enjoy the instructive content of them !!! Recently bought a Squier Telecaster Affinity, Not happy with the 'FREE One month later adjustment', the low strings 'Buzz' within the first 5 frets and still find the strings to be too high past the 12th fret soooo, with your good advice and tricks, I shall try to correct the situation myself, I do not think I can do such a bad job on the bridge for string height and intonation IF I follow your instructions !?! Keep you posted on this one. Thank you for your professionnal videos, may you and familly stay healthy !!! Cheers !!!

  • @TommySG1
    @TommySG1 Рік тому +25

    Hey Phil,
    I don’t own any Squires however for $499.00 this to me is an incredible deal honestly. It would’ve been nice to have this many choices when I was growing up as a kid in the mid 70’s @ these price points.

    • @zaxmaxlax
      @zaxmaxlax Рік тому +5

      Japanese fenders in the 80's were less than 300bucks new, not cheap but affordable and very high quality, arguably better than today's stuff at that price.

    • @bobsaturday4273
      @bobsaturday4273 Рік тому +2

      squier standard are all over the place for $200 , that 40yr one is way overpriced

  • @benperry490
    @benperry490 Рік тому +1

    I bought the same on lst year love it, my strap button is in the same place and my pickguard is a bronzy gold

  • @SpiderStratagemVI
    @SpiderStratagemVI Рік тому +1

    That is a beautiful Squier! Love the binding on the neck!

  • @TheRealDealBobbySteele
    @TheRealDealBobbySteele Рік тому

    Got the Sea Foam Green Vintage version and it’s pretty awesome probably my best guitar. Thanks for the review. Did have to adjust the claw as the trem was very tight.

  • @_Yep_Yep_
    @_Yep_Yep_ Рік тому +9

    Pretty nice guitar. Looks cool. Does stratoguitar things. Neck binding is neat, uncommon. Squire is working hard to own 300-500 dollar range, or at least staying pretty close in quality to the upstart brands with less "heritage." Really makes you look for something loaded up with features if you go for value on an off brand alternative.

    • @TheBcoolGuy
      @TheBcoolGuy Рік тому +1

      Harley-Benton is a pretty good alternative from what I can tell, but their cheapest strats actually don't sound good. To my ears, most electric guitars sound basically the same, and almost all of it comes from effects, filters, etc. But that guitar just sounds affected. Maybe it suits certain styles of music, but I'd want a versatile guitar.

  • @sunn_bass
    @sunn_bass Рік тому +6

    Nice deep dive. Most of the Classic Vibe, Vintage Modified, Contemporary and 40th Anniversary ones I've tried play fine after a good setup and new strings. Nice gear for the price.
    I love Squier guitars and basses.

  • @Mr1121628
    @Mr1121628 Рік тому

    I love how your logo colors for this video matched the guitar! Cheers and hope you're doing well.

  • @Tk-sm2cw
    @Tk-sm2cw Рік тому

    Great Video , I did the same thing to mine, except I changed the bridge as well, put a Wilkinson bridge in mine and i love it

  • @moewhocooper
    @moewhocooper Рік тому +1

    I have the green telecaster and it also has the strap button off set more too the player

  • @lewisbeeman
    @lewisbeeman Рік тому +13

    I am a huge Squier fan because you typically get so much guitar for your money. This Squier looks great. But compared to some of the other options out there, I would have serious reservations about buying it when compared to the other options. Especially when it comes to the stuff Sire is putting out.

  • @preciseaudioblog
    @preciseaudioblog Рік тому +2

    Doesn’t matter if you change all hardware of the instrument... the most important part is the wood... I talk from experience... I upgraded a Squier Jazz Bass (pups, bridge, tuning machines and I even made it active).

  • @psutter5
    @psutter5 Рік тому

    Love Squier guitars. Yes I have crazy expensive guitars all makes all brands customs etc etc. BUT! I added a few things to my squiers and they play and sound no better or worse than my 5 grand guitars. Literally the biggest pros to playing a Squier is you don't have that looming fear of denting digging scratching or having it stolen playing out lol or around your kids. Also I don't customize every Squier I buy guitars for their different sounds. Personalities. Love your channel. I've learned alot you come across very personable. Great content.

  • @TheDarkmore
    @TheDarkmore Рік тому +3

    Big no from me, they went all in the looks, and it is gorgeous, but I'm not doing a fretjob, shielding, swap pots, maybe change that ugly nut at this price point. Great vid as always, thank you!

  • @robertdeen8741
    @robertdeen8741 Рік тому +1

    I bought a Tele couple years ago. I'm very happy with it. Only thing I'd like to change is the D-G saddle. There's no compensation for intonation.
    I imagine when Leo thought it up, wound G strings were the norm, ergo, the compromise wasn't so far apart.
    Other than that, for the level I'm at, and unlikely to rise too much, everything else is fine.
    I think on a blind test play, I'd be unable to tell Squire from Fender.
    Would like to add. With modern CNC machines, there's very little hands on craftsmanship. So long as someone has quality materials and programmers, I see no reason why a quality instrument can,'t be built by anyone anywhere.

  • @StratBurst92
    @StratBurst92 Рік тому

    I have a Squire Classic Vibe 50s strat as well a a Fender American Standard strat that I bought in 2012. I really like both.

  • @timevatt2793
    @timevatt2793 Рік тому

    I bought the vintage edition, , has no bindinf Fender-designed, Alnico V-loaded,solid maple neck,I upgraded the tuneing gears and a loaded tortus shell picguard orilpure hotrails, mine weighs 9.3 lbs,,,well satisfied with mine

  • @brucerichard2904
    @brucerichard2904 Рік тому

    I have the same one with the exact same problems. Overall, I still like it. I'm changing out the pickups and doing the same alterations.

  • @nathanricetalks
    @nathanricetalks 8 місяців тому +1

    2:30 it's right in the middle on mine!

  • @Reapprsr1
    @Reapprsr1 Рік тому

    Hey Phil - I like that you pointed out the Kluson-style tuners. Tuners are important. I went to a boutique shop here in Charlotte NC and the "guy" pointed to what he called Kluson tuners on my 1977 (Nashville made) Gibson Les Paul Standard. Yep, Norlin heavy. "Guy" said he could replace them with a $50 set. Yes their appearance is Kluson and they have that footprint, but if you disassemble, look closely, each is stamped "Made in W. Germany." I'm thinking they are Schaller. And good to keep. You thoughts? Thx -R

  • @kevinmorris7722
    @kevinmorris7722 Рік тому +2

    Question about the strap button? Is it the thinner squire body or maybe the fender thickness drilled in a jig??
    Nice guitar.

  • @MichalBelda
    @MichalBelda Рік тому

    I bought the 40th anniv Jazzmaster in the same color and out of the box it had pretty much the same quality issues you describe. Unpolished frets, pickguard screws all over the place, plus a dodgy pickup switch. But the sound is good and it was at a 25% discount at Thomann so I kept it, set it up, cleaned the pickup switch and it's been playing fine for the last two months...

  • @robblackmoreofficial
    @robblackmoreofficial Рік тому

    Very Beautiful Strat Phil,Seen This Particular Model at Long & Mcquade Yesterday.Very Impressive For Sure,Thank You For All The Info & Sound Demo Very Sweet Sounding & Bright Tones. 😉👍

  • @DesertScorpionKSA
    @DesertScorpionKSA Рік тому

    It's nice that you do some work on the guitar like fretwork, shielding paint and adding locking tuners for the person whose guitar you demoed.

  • @douglaschristine8387
    @douglaschristine8387 Рік тому

    How you doing Phil? I bought a 2019 Squier classic vibe 60's stratocaster. My very first electric guitar and did alot of research before buying it and I couldn't be happier with it. I have an Epiphone Les Paul but I still play my Squier daily. After all the bad remarks about Squier , I'm glad that I didn't pay heed to it. Love your show and your Squier reviews and tests.

    • @douglaschristine8387
      @douglaschristine8387 Рік тому

      Phil is that the pickup why it gets more volume in a certain part of the neck?

  • @drumbyte
    @drumbyte Рік тому

    Always a thorough review on every detail you could be interested in!

  • @nedim_guitar
    @nedim_guitar Рік тому +2

    I've had that exact guitar. I bought it used, just a couple of months old, practically new! It's a really beautiful guitar! The color, binding, the block inlays... It looks great! However... The wiggle stick doesn't feel good. It's screwed in, and I'm afraid it won't last... The guitar wasn't really set up well, but my main issue with it was the tuning machines. They were absolutely awful! It's a new guitar, but the tuning machines have give in them. I want to loosen the strings and have to turn maybe even a fifth of a lap before anything happens. And it's not about the nut clamping on the strings either. They have give both ways. I was thinking about changing the tuners, but also the fret ends were really sharp and uncomfortable. Finally, I wanted a second Strat as a backup, but it's just so far off from my Shijie STE, it can't compare, it's not even close. Since I bought my Shijie, it ruined all other Strats for me.

    • @mickeymessstudios109
      @mickeymessstudios109 Рік тому

      What I like about the G&L is that like the Squier Affinity, the width at the NUT is 41mm while everybody else goes for 42mm and larger.... HOW does your Shijie actually measure at the nut ??? Is it 42mm or less ???? Does it "FEEL" slim enough ??? (PS: Squier Classic Vibe feels very large at nut despite it measuring 42.5mm)

  • @jamesanderson348
    @jamesanderson348 7 місяців тому

    I just bought an Affinity Squire Strat last month. I'm learning to love it everyday. I wanted to upgrade my playing and think it is the one to do it. I LOVE anything Fender...

  • @joepops5186
    @joepops5186 Рік тому

    i have had the cherry burst with gold for about a year ,i love it and plays amazing as long as i have had it

  • @jonwanrocks
    @jonwanrocks Рік тому

    im a sucker for big headstocks and bound necks

  • @RobertPaulGoode
    @RobertPaulGoode Рік тому +2

    I would keep in mind too, with any Anniversary limited edition. Some people(collectors)will rarely play them,maybe what Squire is assuming, but from what I can see from your review, it's better than I expected for $499 from Fender and they cant make them too good or Fender cant sell higher end guitars.

  • @ericbgordon1575
    @ericbgordon1575 Рік тому

    If I knew anything about refinishing, I would apply that metallic blue finish and an off-white pick guard on my Squier Vintage Modified Bass Six. I dig that finish.

  • @paulgordo7505
    @paulgordo7505 Рік тому

    I got a green telecaster version with the gold hardware for $359 Christmas sale! Did all the mods mentioned in the video, but used shielding tape and gotoh tuners. Also changed pickups to tex mex, higher output than original!

  • @redeyedbuggers
    @redeyedbuggers 10 місяців тому +1

    The Squire J Mascis Jazzmaster felt & played better than every single $1K Fender I picked & played at Guitar Center. It’s such a great guitar

  • @matthewjones8865
    @matthewjones8865 Рік тому

    Very interesting information about this model guitar. I really like how you go into the technical side of this model Squier. Nice playing too. Thanks for a great video.

  • @thesurfjunkies
    @thesurfjunkies Рік тому

    Great review as always. We have been impressed with our Squier CV70’s Jag with the exception of the pickups which have been swapped out.

  • @cliftongardner4367
    @cliftongardner4367 Рік тому +13

    Bought this exact guitar in the transparent "Sienna sunburst" finish. It's honestly the best out-of-the-box guitar I've ever purchased. Looks amazing, too. Mine had a tiny cosmetic imperfection in the binding near the join on the bass side but otherwise it was flawless. Such a nice guitar I actually considered selling my Fender Player Tele to buy the 40th anniversary Telecaster.

  • @WellKnownStrangersVideos
    @WellKnownStrangersVideos Рік тому +1

    Phillip is the best guitar and gear reviewer out there!

  • @EmbelekoBand
    @EmbelekoBand Рік тому +1

    I like the color and the metal pick guard shade they look nice together. 👍🤘

  • @larseikind666
    @larseikind666 Рік тому

    I just ordered two. They have been sent now, so I'll have them in a few days. Lovely tone! I do have an old Fender neck, that I was thinking of putting on one of them, but they might be just fine as is. Let's see.

    • @larseikind666
      @larseikind666 Рік тому

      Of course position 4 and 2 are going to be a little "off". They're phase shifted.

    • @larseikind666
      @larseikind666 Рік тому

      I have a few strats now. They all sound different, which is good. My favourite is a Harley Benton. After that I have a couple of Mexicans and US strats. So I'm really looking forwards to picking up the Squires. Sadly I sold my Japanese strat. It was a rough time during the covid lockdown.

  • @trihuynh2317
    @trihuynh2317 7 місяців тому

    Thank you for making this video. The best guitar review that I have ever watched! Very detail and I have learnt much from your techniques to check a new guitar too.

  • @copperaudio9664
    @copperaudio9664 Рік тому +1

    Really good eval and demo Phil - thank you. All the Squires I've bought lately have been similar good. The nut is the most important as every thing else is pretty easy to fix IMO. My only beef is the cool kid colors are not available in lefty versions.

  • @truthwinseverytime8805
    @truthwinseverytime8805 5 днів тому

    What a great review! I just bought a 40th Anniversary Sonic Blue Squire Strat that someone loaded a Seymour Duncan hot rails on the bridge pickup and put a aluminum colored anodized pick guard. I found a 40th anniversary Squire Gold edition bridge pickup for $30 and am going to remove the SD Hot Rails and give that to my son for his Frankenstein Strat and put the 40th Anniversary Gold pick up in. Man, it is gonna sound awesome. I like the satin finish on the standard 40th Anniversary models.

  • @johngleason9407
    @johngleason9407 Рік тому

    I bought one before I saw this video and I love it. Absolutely no complaints 🤪

  • @ryangunwitch-black
    @ryangunwitch-black Рік тому

    I love Squier for Teles. I'm super picky about Strats but those Classic Vibe telecasters are so good. I'm interested to see what you think about this one.

  • @edwinstovall3334
    @edwinstovall3334 Рік тому +1

    Hey, Phillip, I've been watching a large number of videos on the Donner superstrat that's been all over UA-cam recently. When they've mentioned the frets, they've usually had good things to say about them. I'm waiting right now to receive the guitar I bought yesterday, so in a few days I'll be equipped to examine the frets and their ends in person. If you like, I'll let you know what I find. If it's as good as some of the reviews I've seen, though, Fender might need to give serious thought to upgrading and modernizing some of their processes. I will not have paid all of $200 in acquisition cost for this guitar. If its frets are even as good as the Squier, the Squier is getting its butt kicked in the value for money department. And if Squier is somehow beating FENDER in quality, then what the hell good is Fender anymore?

  • @markrandle4368
    @markrandle4368 Рік тому

    wasn't really keen on the neck binding, but always love the 70's era headstock

  • @hosenogginbrainhead
    @hosenogginbrainhead Рік тому +1

    I noticed some intonation issues particularly with the B string when you were playing in different areas on the neck. Considering the price, it's not as noticeable as many other cheap guitars. However, poor intonation can make a great guitar player seem like a beginner. It could also be the taller fret height and finger pressure causing the intonation inconsistency.

  • @jackschijven8219
    @jackschijven8219 Рік тому +1

    Great honest review as always. Thanks. You do not only learn about a guitar but also what determines its quality.

  • @KickArs
    @KickArs Рік тому

    An amazing review! I am blown away by it. It's really well done. Beautiful! Even though I'm not on the market, I couldn't stop watching the video and because of it, I am better for it. Well done!

  • @tacob69
    @tacob69 Рік тому +6

    I got to say I'm kinda done with the bigger companies not at least giving a gig bag with their more expensive or Anniversary type guitars if $100 guitars can do it there is no excuse. That's just my opinion.

  • @pasteye1671
    @pasteye1671 Рік тому

    Just a point - if there is no shielding why is there a solder tag screwed to the "paint" in the route with a cable running to the earth tag on the switch? Perhaps to stop you being able to lift the pickguard too far? Incidentally, I have a 1996 Squier Bullet Strat, from new, which has always played very well, with a stable neck (though lightweight trem block) and I like the ceramic pups it came with. Same original tuners too. JUst shows they could make a good 'un even 30 years ago!

  • @honkytonkinson9787
    @honkytonkinson9787 Рік тому

    Last year I wanted a tele, a project guitar to upgrade, and was trying out Squiers. While I was expecting to have to work on the guitar a bit, the ones I tried weren’t great! They all felt like about 10 minutes were spent on fit and finish. Playable, but not pleasant: rough scratchy frets mainly
    I tried an Ibanez, made in Indonesia. A hard tail strat with pup switching that can get tele sounds. It needed less work so bought that one, and spent a couple hours on setup, and polishing frets. Now, almost a year later, it’s still stock, and pondering leaving it be. It’s not as good as my American strat, but pretty damn close; closer than the difference in price!
    If I were a beginner I’d have been disappointed with what was available for under $400

  • @brucemartinez5343
    @brucemartinez5343 Рік тому +2

    I have a made-in-China 2009 Squire Strat and I absolutely love it and would not sell it for anything, Like Mike Campbell said if you find one that plays and sounds great keep it. but I do have a Squire Affinity 2012 and I wouldn't give it to my worst enemy. LOL.

  • @stephenmccain-wx2jy
    @stephenmccain-wx2jy Рік тому +1

    Another great video! Glad that you share other similar guitars as options in this price range. The new Firefly FFST Strats have way more modern features for no money SS frets roast body and necks some mild to wild color options. They need setups though some of these inexpensive Chinese guitar are getting better all the time Thank for the Snark Air tuner I won!

  • @dragoncove5308
    @dragoncove5308 Рік тому

    A few things that I had done to mine was to lower the pickups as to me I thought they sounded better that way and I slapped a 10 way switch in there for more tonal variation.

  • @robertholtom9345
    @robertholtom9345 Рік тому

    Thanks always for sharing your knowledge regarding maintenance on guitars.
    Cheers Bro!

  • @richardfinney3179
    @richardfinney3179 Рік тому

    I have a 1993 indo made squire, with a little work intonation,9/38 strings ,set the action and relief ,and a graphtech nut it's a fantastic player I've let 3:other guys play it and they all said wow thats sweet ,I've got a Epiphone strat from the 70s and it's comming along Im doing the same thing and putting locking tuners on Go fender