These look identical to the old Starcaster strat from 20 years ago from big box stores. Weren’t bad guitars. I modded one and it’s an ok guitar. Not perfect but playable
100% I was born in 72 and started playing at age 11 we had nothing like this quality at that price point. The Sears guitar I had literally when strummed would go Right out Of tune. The guitar was basically always tuned to D lol
Teenager in the 70's here. Man, cheap guitars were terrible. I still see them in the really dusty used stores. Some of them have some charm, like Teiscos, but most are just ratchety barely playable junk. I had a Sears Silvertone with action so high any chord was out of tune from the fretted strings stretching to sharp. Painful on the ears as it was on the fingers! It was like a guitar that you would give a kid to make them not ever want to be a musician. lol. We are definitely in a Golden Age for cheap guitars, if that could be a thing.
As a self taught player I really appreciate your generosity and support of our youth who like me was very poor unable to even get a guitar Awesome stuff
My dad bought me one of these as a gag. After a setup, new strings, and about three hours with a fret file, I’ve got the thing very playable. The laurel fingerboard on mine is very close-grained, it’s incredibly slippery-smooth and fabulous. On the downside, the pickups are a little harsh for my taste. So as with yours, the fret ends were atrocious, but with a little bit of work, this becomes a fabulous beginners guitar. I’m probably going to give this to one of my students.
Hello Phillip, i've just discovered you and your channel thanks to this video and i'm blown away by the quality of both you and your video(s)! I can't believe how plenty of information you're giving and how detailed they are, unbelievable! I've always been looking for a nice and great person like you and a great quality guitar/luthier channel, i'm very happy to have found you :) I'm just a guy who's been playing guitar for 5 years and very interested in every aspect of this instrument, from playing to maintaining it. I'm finally happy with a channel that i can follow and educate myself on maintenance/modifying part of guitars, of course there are very good channels out there but none of them were this genuine and sharing in my opinion. It's also great you're donating it for children, i'm sure some of them are going to be guitarists in the future. Thank you so much Phillip! Subscribed and turned the bell on! Have a nice day :)
Thanks for reviewing this! I got one and was completely floored by how good they are. I’ve had countless guitars and this one has been my go to since they were released. With CNC machining, squier/fender just had to input the right specs and voila!
My first guitar was. Squire Bullet. I filed and polished the fret ends. Took it in for a setup from a small shop. I installed new locking tuners. After all of that it was very playable for a beginner to learn. After two years of lessons I bought a PRS SE.
I just added Eric Clapton Sig Strat electronics (TBX, Mid-Boost, Noiseless Pickups, and Jack) to my Bullet. Found a pre-wired pick-guard on ebay for $200 and the jack for another $15 and Fender Saddles $15. It took some effort with a router but this thing ROCKS now🤟. It looks mostly stock too so it’s an eye opener 😂
Nice mods. I was gifted a black Squire Bullet. I changed the all pickups to cheap knockoff Hot Rails and put on a Pearloid pickguard. Total cost was $35. It's now a fun guitar to play and, in my opinion, looks better too.
Musician and school custodian, here. Salud for giving the guitars to schools. I look at the stuff these schools have and it's mostly junk interspersed with some nice pieces here and there. Keep them coming!
I really appreciate the first playing samples you did (without distortion). So many of these demos/reviews on the web feature about 90% of the playing with loads of distortion and crunch, but a lot of players don't use those sounds. Thank you!
Thanks for the run through of the electronics behind the pickguard and the tech tips. I happen to wonder yesterday about upgrading the pots in my squiers, never would I expect the answer would turn up in your vid the next day. Haha. I have 4 Squiers and not even 1 Fender. Maybe that's a problem that needs fixing 😂 Subscribed!
Thank you both, the generous viewer and to you Phil for doing a comprehensive deep dive on such a model. Fender seems to be genuinely thoughtful on their purpose for these Debut guitars
Special thanks to the viewer that paid for the guitar for you to dive iinto, and I feel you gave it a truly unbiased opinion. I wholeheartedly agree that you should first look at local mom and pop stores instead of the internet! Thanks Phil; the more I watch your videos, the more I like them.
I have a few Squiers a contemporary Tele and a Classic Vibe 70s Strat that are 2 of my most played guitars i usually pick them up first. After 30 years of playing i dont care what it says on the headstock as long as it plays and sounds good and I like it. I also commend you for giving these to music programs thats awesome man.
I bought one. A nice guitar for leaving out to grab and play. I never took the tremolo bar out of the box,of course the bridge is cheap. I'm in my 70's been playing since 13. I like the way it feels. Amazing what is available today for beginners whether young or old. Take the big sheet of plastic that covers the pickups, and put some D'addario 9"s on it. Makes a noticeable improvement.
I have an Affinity Strat that I've done a few minor mods to, and I actually prefer playing it over my 1989 Am. Std . It just feels really good to play, and I really like the two-tone sunburst over the higher end three tone SB.
They used poplar on many Fender guitars back in the day.. I had a set of good pickups lying around so I purchased one and threw them in and fixed all the little problems and wouldn't even hesitate to gig with it now... The satin finish has really grown on me
poplar is very hard and dense. Drawbacks - heavy and can have coloring. Pluses - good sustain, durable as a rock, very smooth. Probably makes a great guitar body
LOVE watching your VERY informative and entertaining videos Phil. I wish I had THAT as my first guitar, instead of the Spiegel catalog guitar and amp combo, that went for 106.00 back in late 1970's. Still have the amp😄
Hi Phil! Thanks for the video. I'd been wondering about this model. FYI, Squier Strats, at least over the past decade or so, are all 42mm nut width, as are the MIM Standard/Player models. You don't see 43mm nut consistently until Player Plus or American.
I appreciate how long you spent on clean sounds, since IMO a little overdrive erases most of the small differences between the sound of cheap guitars and expensive ones.
FYI I used a file and sand paper on a Mexican block and put it in a 3/4 Strat. Got the tremelo cover on too with a little sanding on the inside of the cover.
If your sticking a pencil eraserto help with the slop in the trem arm. If you want it out, thread a sharp screw into it so it bites into the eraser, then back out the screw slowly with the eraser attached. I use this technique on other things outside of guitar mostly on stuck Welch plugs in carbs when they refuse to come out with other methods
I used to live in Tucson, AZ, and I was gonna go to Gridley but I ended up moving to Texas, but to see that middle school on your video was cool, awesome donation and review man!
I have been watching Phillip's stuff for a decade or more, and he is getting better every day. I like his practical mindset, various methods to solve issues including cheap cheats. Mostly, he has learned how show the features with good references and conparisons like a chanp. Even more importantly, he demos their features whiles he plays for us. He used to kinda suck as a musician, but shine as a bright tech. Now, I enjoy hearing him play guitar. You sound great, Mr. McKnight! Thanks for helping us, and please keep shredding! Your playing has improved immensely and it encourages your fellow musicians.
Over the past year, I have purchased three guitars - much to my GF’s chagrin. • 1990 Fujigen ST-65 Fender Stratocaster ($800) • 1994 “Black Label” (Made in California, finished and assembled in Mexico) Squire Series Fender Stratocaster ($300) • 1994 “Black Label” (Made in California, finished and assembled in Mexico) Squire Series Fender Telecaster ($350) The Fujigen’s body is a bit heavy and the electronics need replacing, but that guitar plays like butter. The Telecaster is fun to play, but it needs some fret work (and it could also use new electronics). That said, my least expensive purchase (the Black Label Mexican Strat) is one of THE best guitars I have ever played. It is easily the best guitar I have ever owned. The only Strat that I enjoyed playing more than my Black Label Strat was a 1983 JV-57 Fujigen Stratocaster. Someone put love into making that thing. It felt like it was holding and playing me. If I get a bonus check next year, I am going to go back to Mike’s in Seattle’s Emerald City and buy that SOAB. Goodbye $3k, hello euphoria. Don’t take my word for it. Research the Black Label 1994-1997 Mexican Fender “Squire Series” Stratocasters. Lots of pawn shops, yard sales and music stores don’t even know what they have. I give it a few more years before they begin to get really scarce. Anyone who has ever had one will tell you. And if you have the cheese to spend, remember this: 1983 Fujigen “Made in Japan” (“JV”) Stratocaster.
That's funny, Amazon is almost that fast. I live just a few miles from an Amazon distribution center, and if I order something at work at lunchtime, it's usually delivered before I get home.
Thanks for the explanation on how you’re using your multi-meter. I’ve seen these measurements on literally hundreds of videos, but never fully understood what the effect of specific high or low readings would be. Great stuff.
That's a really interesting finish on the body - is it actually more of a matte vs. gloss ? If so, I actually think that's really cool - maybe sunburst isn't the best to make use of it - but I think I like it better than the often over the top (to me) glossy finishes... it's at least nice to have another option...
I’ve been playing for nearly 30 yrs. For fun a couple years ago I picked up a Squire and amp combo pack on sale for Christmas and I friggin dig the guitar. It plays and sounds awesome and nobody I play with cares that it’s a cheap‘beginner’ guitar. I Ike it playing it and hearing it so to me, it’s a good guitar. And that’s all that matters.
The mentor advice is so good there is nothing better than entering into guitar and becoming part of a tribe. You will find support just by being you and having a common interest with anyone of any age group.. Welcome to the new ones!
As someone who plays clean/reverb or uses just a touch of overdrive, this guitar sounds great - amazing for the money. I've played many Fenders and Squiers. The only one I've kept has been a Squier Thinline Tele. Perfect comments from Phil at the end about going to your local store first. Excellent video. Full of info and tips. 10/10.
Awesome that you’re giving the guitar away in support of, and inspiring, young musicians. Your reviews are always fantastic, often learn something from you. Thank you.
What surprised me that with an experienced player like Phil playing a $120 guitar, it sounds just as good as a American Professional Stratocaster. Everything that Phil listed that the guitar needs help on like, fret sprout can be fixed with common tools at home. Hydrating your fingerboard with lemon oil you can get from Home Depot.
Slide players can play anything. As long as the strings are tight, the instrument is playable. That's how they get away with playing $100 cigar box guitars.
Thank you for reviewing this guitar! I’ve been looking at one now since these hit Amazon a few months back. I’d like to try one just to see if I like Fender, and this model might just be the ticket. We all trust your judgement and recommendations a great deal. You don’t have an agenda, and that’s a good thing. Thanks for all of your content.
I’m not a beginner but I’d be happy with that guitar - it sounds great. Once you get over the gear snob thing (which can be fun in its own right) guitars like this really come into their own. Great review.
Phil your point to hydrate the board (especially laurel/rosewood, etc) is so true as I drenched my Debut when I got mine over the summer. Solved the problem. Will be changing the awful bridge to 9ne with a brass block. Great thrasher!
Thanks for mentioning the pots. Small dime-sized pots do not affect the sound in any way. Electrons don't know or care what size or price the pots are, only the resistance matters.
There were two dudes talking on TV and after 45 minutes ... I quit. So ... being too early for bed, I needed some respite from the cacophony which I had been drowning and almost puking in and thought to myself ... "I wonder what Phil is up to?". I needed to listen to a bonafide good dude. Appreciated Phil. 🙏
Both of my kids play. Im a proud Pop. I bought Squiers for all of us around 2014. They stuck with it and also learned other instruments as well as guitar.
I appreciate the honest review and not being afraid to say that it's a pretty great guitar for the price. I watched one of these where the guy felt like you had to do a complete tear down and remod before he would consider playing it--I think he forgot the guitar was made for a beginner, not a pro with custom Shop Fender's hanging on the wall behind him. I bought this guitar simply out of curiosity and was definitely impressed. I also LOVE that you recommend going to your locally owned shop first. Amazon is great and convenient, but the local guys need your money more than Amazon AND locals are the best option for information, repairs, and upgrades. Lastly, I'll say that one thing you get from the Debut that you don't get from other guitars at this level is constant quality. I have one and so do three friends who all bought the red one because red is rare on a cheap Fender. All of them are consistently good guitars. They all needed a little intonation, string stretching, and tuning, but what guitar at this level doesn't? One of my friends said the intonation on his was spot on except for one string which was only slightly out. That's impressive.
I bought this $200 Squier Hardtail Strat 9 months ago and it's been an amazing guitar, not the only one I use anymore but I still use it and it holds up amazingly
I should look in to that. I started out a s a Strat guy, then became a Tele guy. I have been thinking that a hard tail Strat would sort of be the best of both worlds.
Phil, I really enjoyed what you chose to play in the clean section. I thought it showcased the guitar well and it was just enjoyable to listen to. Is that some of the music you've been putting together on your album?
As a guy who worked an entire summer to buy his first electric guitar... these are great and I hope the help inspire some really great up and coming rock stars. We all need rock and roll to come back!!!
I got a Squier Jazzmaster 12 string no tremolo. For 380 delivered from Fender. It is amazing didn’t need any set up. Intonation was great stays in tune and sounds great. Awesome for the price !!
@@fatseaturtleThey should be able to. Tele’s are way less complex than a strat with a trem. Surprised they didn’t do the tele debut first, but I think it’s just a popularity thing.
Just got my Squier Debut in the mail, and from initial appearances, it is flawless. No knots in the neck, and no sharp edges on the frets. It was a little difficult to tune, however, but probably because it was sitting the the freezing delivery truck. There is a bit of a bow (relief) in the neck. I will wait until the guitar gets fully up to room temperature before making any adjustments.
Great review Phil. It looks like this guitar is an excellent choice for beginners. My kids have really started to take playing seriously and some of their friends are coming over to the house and also showing interest. Thanks to this review I would feel comfortable recommending this guitar to one of their parents looking to buy their kid a guitar.
Great informative video as always, Phil. Seems like a great value. I really dig the satin finish on the body. Would look sweet with a matte black pick guard!
I've owned all kinds of guitars, American/Mexican/Chinese, etc., and now own one American Fender and three Squiers. Squier is killing the game right now.
I have 3 of these. At $100 ea., they are a steal! Pair it with a Fender Mustang LT-25 ($150), and you will be good to go. The only upgrades I made were locking tuners. I also have a Fender Strat which is awesome and totally worth the money when you are ready to advance to next level. But, I play my Squires more because of the lighter weight.
The Gear may help a little even inspire but it's the Guy or girl not the gear. Anyone telling you otherwise doesn't know what they are talking about. Talent can't be bought or replicated. Good to see someone supporting new players as they come into their own especially in school! Thanks for that mate!
You have to admit that would be a great first guitar and for the price you can't beat it! My first guitar was a late 60s fender strat (used) it was $300 in 1971
I agree- my 2021 Chinese Strat from Fender with FMT SSH is a great guitar in every way- even fret ends, sonically ( after ear tuned pickup height ), feel, - love it!
First video ive watched of yours. I wanted you to know that you earned my subscription immediately when you said you donate these guitars to kids. Much Love bro 💜
I'm not sure how you are measuring inductance using your multimeter, unless you are using the resistance setting and applying a specific formula? The multimeter that I use (owon HDS242S, which is not the fanciest but it does have an oscilloscope but it doesn't have anything specific to inductance so I'm curious what you're using and how you were getting that number
I totally agree, I like a thinner-bodied guitar. There's one circumstances where I know a thinner body can cause problems for people, and it's when trying to upgrade the trem block. Aftermarket trem components are made to fender size, and won't fit into these. But that's not that common of an upgrade.
I bought this guitar in a kit with an amp and other necessities for my 14yr old son. I wasn't sure if he'd get into it but i wanted to make sure he had a good experience so i also made sure to sign him up for lessons. To your point, he's a few months in and wants to upgrade but now i have more confidence that he'll maybe stick with it. So my point is perhaps take the extra cash you save buying this guitar to spend on some guitar lessons at your local guitar shop. Also; just to throw it out there: i bought a fender dreadnaught so i could try along with him (another amazon guitar purchase but acoustic) and now my son has 2 guitars that he loves to play and i'm not suffering from buyers remorse. So maybe this price point is great because you can also pick up an acoustic with the money saved and still feel like you have some good first guitars to learn on.
I have always been a bit of a 12 inch radius fellow. My Deluxe Nashville tele is even 12 radius. With Rosewood. It's an older one with the brass saddles.
There was a time that I had a half dozen expensive name-brand guitars, and these days I have a small collection of inexpensive guitars that are surprisingly playable. There is no denying the value of the stability of the more expensive ones, but the fingers make the biggest difference. Phil can make anything sound good. :-)
I wonder how this compares to an Ibanez azes40. With this squire I'd think it should be easy to swap the bridge pickup for a humbucker. This is my fave gear channel so far. Thanks for helping me learn about gear❤
They Are now blowing them out on Amazon for $99
amzn.to/3Z8rpDH
$430.88 ???
that's the price showing when we click onn that link.
These look identical to the old Starcaster strat from 20 years ago from big box stores. Weren’t bad guitars. I modded one and it’s an ok guitar. Not perfect but playable
it's back to $119
As a teacher and a guitar bro, I really appreciate you giving these to kids. There are so many kids in my state that dont have a whole lot.
Yea that’s a great thing!
If you don't mind me asking... which state?
@@AvroBellowi don't remember he says in the beginning
@@lauriemacquanan2141 hmm
As a student and guitar nigga, I agree
It's amazing for 120 bucks, poplar body that's great value. It's way better then what us older guys started on.
Exactly! Entry level these days are so much better and much cheaper to boot.
No doubt! @@portland573
100% I was born in 72 and started playing at age 11 we had nothing like this quality at that price point. The Sears guitar I had literally when strummed would go Right out Of tune. The guitar was basically always tuned to D lol
Teenager in the 70's here. Man, cheap guitars were terrible. I still see them in the really dusty used stores. Some of them have some charm, like Teiscos, but most are just ratchety barely playable junk. I had a Sears Silvertone with action so high any chord was out of tune from the fretted strings stretching to sharp. Painful on the ears as it was on the fingers!
It was like a guitar that you would give a kid to make them not ever want to be a musician. lol. We are definitely in a Golden Age for cheap guitars, if that could be a thing.
For sure, I had a old Teisco that was a nightmare. I loved it though.
As a self taught player I really appreciate your generosity and support of our youth who like me was very poor unable to even get a guitar Awesome stuff
Phil really is a treasure for the info he gives to the community.
Also the viewer who donated the money to buy this guitar so it could be reviewed. We all win.
Agreed
Those little springs can be found in self closing cupboard hinges. I discovered this when one broke and the spring fell out. Fits perfectly....
Another solid video as always
I wish all people who worked at guitar stores had attitudes more like this one.
Word. Way back in the day we had musicians that were working musicians. Today, you've got people working at places that could care less. It's a "job".
Agree. Most of the sales person at guitar center are bunch of assholes.
They try to upsale people. I'm glad for today's begginers. They have access to stuff we could only dream of back in the days.
This is amazing. We’re living in the golden age of guitars for real.
My dad bought me one of these as a gag. After a setup, new strings, and about three hours with a fret file, I’ve got the thing very playable. The laurel fingerboard on mine is very close-grained, it’s incredibly slippery-smooth and fabulous. On the downside, the pickups are a little harsh for my taste. So as with yours, the fret ends were atrocious, but with a little bit of work, this becomes a fabulous beginners guitar. I’m probably going to give this to one of my students.
Hello Phillip, i've just discovered you and your channel thanks to this video and i'm blown away by the quality of both you and your video(s)! I can't believe how plenty of information you're giving and how detailed they are, unbelievable! I've always been looking for a nice and great person like you and a great quality guitar/luthier channel, i'm very happy to have found you :)
I'm just a guy who's been playing guitar for 5 years and very interested in every aspect of this instrument, from playing to maintaining it. I'm finally happy with a channel that i can follow and educate myself on maintenance/modifying part of guitars, of course there are very good channels out there but none of them were this genuine and sharing in my opinion.
It's also great you're donating it for children, i'm sure some of them are going to be guitarists in the future.
Thank you so much Phillip! Subscribed and turned the bell on! Have a nice day :)
Thanks for reviewing this! I got one and was completely floored by how good they are. I’ve had countless guitars and this one has been my go to since they were released. With CNC machining, squier/fender just had to input the right specs and voila!
My first guitar was. Squire Bullet. I filed and polished the fret ends. Took it in for a setup from a small shop. I installed new locking tuners. After all of that it was very playable for a beginner to learn. After two years of lessons I bought a PRS SE.
I just added Eric Clapton Sig Strat electronics (TBX, Mid-Boost, Noiseless Pickups, and Jack) to my Bullet. Found a pre-wired pick-guard on ebay for $200 and the jack for another $15 and Fender Saddles $15.
It took some effort with a router but this thing ROCKS now🤟. It looks mostly stock too so it’s an eye opener 😂
Nice mods. I was gifted a black Squire Bullet. I changed the all pickups to cheap knockoff Hot Rails and put on a Pearloid pickguard. Total cost was $35. It's now a fun guitar to play and, in my opinion, looks better too.
Thanks!
Sounds like solid deal at that price point. Thanks Phil!
I have two SQUIER guitars. They are great! A Telecaster and an Esquire! Mine cost $389 each. But they are now $449. Still great bargains!
Phil, you're a saint for putting guitars in the hands of the kids! Rock on brother!!
Musician and school custodian, here. Salud for giving the guitars to schools. I look at the stuff these schools have and it's mostly junk interspersed with some nice pieces here and there. Keep them coming!
I really appreciate the first playing samples you did (without distortion). So many of these demos/reviews on the web feature about 90% of the playing with loads of distortion and crunch, but a lot of players don't use those sounds. Thank you!
Thanks for the run through of the electronics behind the pickguard and the tech tips. I happen to wonder yesterday about upgrading the pots in my squiers, never would I expect the answer would turn up in your vid the next day. Haha. I have 4 Squiers and not even 1 Fender. Maybe that's a problem that needs fixing 😂 Subscribed!
Thank you both, the generous viewer and to you Phil for doing a comprehensive deep dive on such a model. Fender seems to be genuinely thoughtful on their purpose for these Debut guitars
They are in a small way investing in the future customers!
Special thanks to the viewer that paid for the guitar for you to dive iinto, and I feel you gave it a truly unbiased opinion. I wholeheartedly agree that you should first look at local mom and pop stores instead of the internet! Thanks Phil; the more I watch your videos, the more I like them.
I have a few Squiers a contemporary Tele and a Classic Vibe 70s Strat that are 2 of my most played guitars i usually pick them up first. After 30 years of playing i dont care what it says on the headstock as long as it plays and sounds good and I like it. I also commend you for giving these to music programs thats awesome man.
Great content i wish this kind of stuff was around back in the late 1970s when i first picked up a guitar
I bought one. A nice guitar for leaving out to grab and play. I never took the tremolo bar out of the box,of course the bridge is cheap. I'm in my 70's been playing since 13. I like the way it feels. Amazing what is available today for beginners whether young or old. Take the big sheet of plastic that covers the pickups, and put some D'addario 9"s on it. Makes a noticeable improvement.
As ever, great perspective. For a parent who can’t stretch for their kids first guitar, seems great.
I just bought a Squier Affinity Strat and its great for 200 euros/dollars. They really did a nice job on it.
I have an Affinity Strat that I've done a few minor mods to, and I actually prefer playing it over my 1989 Am. Std . It just feels really good to play, and I really like the two-tone sunburst over the higher end three tone SB.
They used poplar on many Fender guitars back in the day.. I had a set of good pickups lying around so I purchased one and threw them in and fixed all the little problems and wouldn't even hesitate to gig with it now... The satin finish has really grown on me
poplar is very hard and dense. Drawbacks - heavy and can have coloring. Pluses - good sustain, durable as a rock, very smooth. Probably makes a great guitar body
LOVE watching your VERY informative and entertaining videos Phil. I wish I had THAT as my first guitar, instead of the Spiegel catalog guitar and amp combo, that went for 106.00 back in late 1970's. Still have the amp😄
Thanks!
Best guitar I've played in my life was a hopped up Bullet my buddy had. It smoked his PRS and that PRS had thousands in it.
I hear that. Got a bullet tele, got an American Pro 2 tele. Play the bullet just as much, probably more.
@@chasbee the bullet is probably lighter too.
Hi Phil! Thanks for the video. I'd been wondering about this model. FYI, Squier Strats, at least over the past decade or so, are all 42mm nut width, as are the MIM Standard/Player models. You don't see 43mm nut consistently until Player Plus or American.
I appreciate how long you spent on clean sounds, since IMO a little overdrive erases most of the small differences between the sound of cheap guitars and expensive ones.
FYI a thin body would not fit standard tremolos if you are thinking of modding. The block would be sticking out the back.
FYI I used a file and sand paper on a Mexican block and put it in a 3/4 Strat. Got the tremelo cover on too with a little sanding on the inside of the cover.
@@davidkastin4240 Or put a 'gasket" under the the trem cover. Only needs to be built out a few mm and it's noticeable but not annoying.
@@frankiegoestoponsonby4741 That would be plan B LoL
If your sticking a pencil eraserto help with the slop in the trem arm. If you want it out, thread a sharp screw into it so it bites into the eraser, then back out the screw slowly with the eraser attached. I use this technique on other things outside of guitar mostly on stuck Welch plugs in carbs when they refuse to come out with other methods
Those pickups actually sound sweet! A great value all around here - I even like the new outline style logo. Looks way cooler and more traditional
I used to live in Tucson, AZ, and I was gonna go to Gridley but I ended up moving to Texas, but to see that middle school on your video was cool, awesome donation and review man!
I appreciate your charity to the young students in school. You just made a student and their teacher very happy!
I have been watching Phillip's stuff for a decade or more, and he is getting better every day. I like his practical mindset, various methods to solve issues including cheap cheats. Mostly, he has learned how show the features with good references and conparisons like a chanp. Even more importantly, he demos their features whiles he plays for us. He used to kinda suck as a musician, but shine as a bright tech. Now, I enjoy hearing him play guitar. You sound great, Mr. McKnight! Thanks for helping us, and please keep shredding! Your playing has improved immensely and it encourages your fellow musicians.
Awesome video, I love seeing how fender are trying to market to new players.
The quality at the price point of such of low-end guitars never ceases to blow me away. A fantastic value for the money, especially for a beginner.
Over the past year, I have purchased three guitars - much to my GF’s chagrin.
• 1990 Fujigen ST-65 Fender Stratocaster ($800)
• 1994 “Black Label” (Made in California, finished and assembled in Mexico) Squire Series Fender Stratocaster ($300)
• 1994 “Black Label” (Made in California, finished and assembled in Mexico) Squire Series Fender Telecaster ($350)
The Fujigen’s body is a bit heavy and the electronics need replacing, but that guitar plays like butter. The Telecaster is fun to play, but it needs some fret work (and it could also use new electronics).
That said, my least expensive purchase (the Black Label Mexican Strat) is one of THE best guitars I have ever played. It is easily the best guitar I have ever owned.
The only Strat that I enjoyed playing more than my Black Label Strat was a 1983 JV-57 Fujigen Stratocaster. Someone put love into making that thing. It felt like it was holding and playing me.
If I get a bonus check next year, I am going to go back to Mike’s in Seattle’s Emerald City and buy that SOAB. Goodbye $3k, hello euphoria.
Don’t take my word for it. Research the Black Label 1994-1997 Mexican Fender “Squire Series” Stratocasters. Lots of pawn shops, yard sales and music stores don’t even know what they have. I give it a few more years before they begin to get really scarce.
Anyone who has ever had one will tell you.
And if you have the cheese to spend, remember this: 1983 Fujigen “Made in Japan” (“JV”) Stratocaster.
I found a JV Squire at the GC, for 100$ Emerald City Guitars got that one, I think it sold for 600- 800. That fat body radius is hard to hide.
She AIN'T ya wife! (YET!)
That's funny, Amazon is almost that fast. I live just a few miles from an Amazon distribution center, and if I order something at work at lunchtime, it's usually delivered before I get home.
Are you in Tampa? I have the same experience you do I typically can't get to Walmart as fast as Amazon gets to me
Thanks for the explanation on how you’re using your multi-meter. I’ve seen these measurements on literally hundreds of videos, but never fully understood what the effect of specific high or low readings would be. Great stuff.
That's a really interesting finish on the body - is it actually more of a matte vs. gloss ? If so, I actually think that's really cool - maybe sunburst isn't the best to make use of it - but I think I like it better than the often over the top (to me) glossy finishes... it's at least nice to have another option...
Yeah those Amazon Squiers have matte finish it’s neat
@@josephabrams3051 Definitely cool - I don't recall Fender really having that sort of finish... maybe using these as a bit of "test marketing" (?)
I don't generally care for bursts but I like this. Got to be the Matte finish.
I’ve been playing for nearly 30 yrs. For fun a couple years ago I picked up a Squire and amp combo pack on sale for Christmas and I friggin dig the guitar. It plays and sounds awesome and nobody I play with cares that it’s a cheap‘beginner’ guitar. I Ike it playing it and hearing it so to me, it’s a good guitar. And that’s all that matters.
The mentor advice is so good there is nothing better than entering into guitar and becoming part of a tribe. You will find support just by being you and having a common interest with anyone of any age group.. Welcome to the new ones!
Just got my hands on one to setup for a client. I was impressed. Best guitar I've seen at this price point.
As someone who plays clean/reverb or uses just a touch of overdrive, this guitar sounds great - amazing for the money.
I've played many Fenders and Squiers. The only one I've kept has been a Squier Thinline Tele.
Perfect comments from Phil at the end about going to your local store first.
Excellent video. Full of info and tips. 10/10.
Awesome that you’re giving the guitar away in support of, and inspiring, young musicians. Your reviews are always fantastic, often learn something from you. Thank you.
I have all three of these. I've been playing for 40 years and these Strats are easily some of the best guitars I've played in ages.
What surprised me that with an experienced player like Phil playing a $120 guitar, it sounds just as good as a American Professional Stratocaster. Everything that Phil listed that the guitar needs help on like, fret sprout can be fixed with common tools at home. Hydrating your fingerboard with lemon oil you can get from Home Depot.
Slide players can play anything. As long as the strings are tight, the instrument is playable. That's how they get away with playing $100 cigar box guitars.
Guitar's certainly have come a long way from I started in 60's
What wonderful, inexpensive guitars are made today.
Thanks for the post.
Thank you for reviewing this guitar! I’ve been looking at one now since these hit Amazon a few months back. I’d like to try one just to see if I like Fender, and this model might just be the ticket. We all trust your judgement and recommendations a great deal. You don’t have an agenda, and that’s a good thing. Thanks for all of your content.
I’m not a beginner but I’d be happy with that guitar - it sounds great. Once you get over the gear snob thing (which can be fun in its own right) guitars like this really come into their own. Great review.
My first “guitar” was a gut bucket we made with a bucket, a broom and a shoelace. These kids don’t know how good they’ve got it.
🤣🤣🤣
…..😂you didn’t know how well off you were, my first guitar was a cardboard cutout
@@gregoryfleming4324 You had a cardboard guitar? You were lucky. I had an air guitar, but I couldn't even afford strings, so I had to hum.
@@NeilTaylor1I can't even hum in tune so I guess my air guitar is a dud.
@@NeilTaylor1 air guitar! We dreamed of having an air guitar ... as kids we would be thrashed for humming that dream out loud...
I always learn so much from these videos. Thank you.
Usually guys in Guitare stores are intimidating. And many times try to sell you what they want to get rid of
Intimidating??? Lmao they are all dorks
Dude, does the guy at the deli counter intimidate you too? Guitar store guys can be a tad arrogant but in NO way intimidating.
Phil your point to hydrate the board (especially laurel/rosewood, etc) is so true as I drenched my Debut when I got mine over the summer. Solved the problem. Will be changing the awful bridge to 9ne with a brass block. Great thrasher!
Using steam from a bathroom though, surely some almond or lemon oil.
Thanks for mentioning the pots. Small dime-sized pots do not affect the sound in any way. Electrons don't know or care what size or price the pots are, only the resistance matters.
There were two dudes talking on TV and after 45 minutes ... I quit. So ... being too early for bed, I needed some respite from the cacophony which I had been drowning and almost puking in and thought to myself ... "I wonder what Phil is up to?". I needed to listen to a bonafide good dude. Appreciated Phil. 🙏
Was one of them Danish?
@@DesconectadoOaxaca The language (to my ear at least), was more akin to Bovinius Scatalogicus. Not Scandinavia?🤣
You sound like you're 70 years old
@ … and some!
Both of my kids play. Im a proud Pop.
I bought Squiers for all of us around 2014. They stuck with it and also learned other instruments as well as guitar.
I appreciate the honest review and not being afraid to say that it's a pretty great guitar for the price. I watched one of these where the guy felt like you had to do a complete tear down and remod before he would consider playing it--I think he forgot the guitar was made for a beginner, not a pro with custom Shop Fender's hanging on the wall behind him. I bought this guitar simply out of curiosity and was definitely impressed. I also LOVE that you recommend going to your locally owned shop first. Amazon is great and convenient, but the local guys need your money more than Amazon AND locals are the best option for information, repairs, and upgrades. Lastly, I'll say that one thing you get from the Debut that you don't get from other guitars at this level is constant quality. I have one and so do three friends who all bought the red one because red is rare on a cheap Fender. All of them are consistently good guitars. They all needed a little intonation, string stretching, and tuning, but what guitar at this level doesn't? One of my friends said the intonation on his was spot on except for one string which was only slightly out. That's impressive.
Nice clear truss rod adjustment graphic there Phil, you're fantastic man.
Poplar is one of the most underrated woods. It’s pretty stable. Cheap. Machines well.
I bought this $200 Squier Hardtail Strat 9 months ago and it's been an amazing guitar, not the only one I use anymore but I still use it and it holds up amazingly
I should look in to that.
I started out a s a Strat guy, then became a Tele guy.
I have been thinking that a hard tail Strat would sort of be the best of both worlds.
Thanks for your video. I enjoyed your opinions on these and trust your guidance. You made lots of great points.
Nothing wrong with that at all. Sounds good.
Phil, I really enjoyed what you chose to play in the clean section. I thought it showcased the guitar well and it was just enjoyable to listen to. Is that some of the music you've been putting together on your album?
As a guy who worked an entire summer to buy his first electric guitar... these are great and I hope the help inspire some really great up and coming rock stars. We all need rock and roll to come back!!!
I got a Squier Jazzmaster 12 string no tremolo. For 380 delivered from Fender.
It is amazing didn’t need any set up. Intonation was great stays in tune and sounds great.
Awesome for the price !!
Hey Phil your playing has improved so much over the last few years! Cheers!
I don't know what he used to play like, but he's definitely a playa now.
Great info! Thanks Phil!
I'm hoping they do a debut telecaster with a maple fretboard
yes!!!! I hope they can hit that price point too!
@@fatseaturtleThey should be able to. Tele’s are way less complex than a strat with a trem. Surprised they didn’t do the tele debut first, but I think it’s just a popularity thing.
Buy the new affinity mocha with maple fretboard it's stunning
Great modder. Especially the bass version of the debut series.
Squier has been killing it for years now
Just got my Squier Debut in the mail, and from initial appearances, it is flawless. No knots in the neck, and no sharp edges on the frets. It was a little difficult to tune, however, but probably because it was sitting the the freezing delivery truck. There is a bit of a bow (relief) in the neck. I will wait until the guitar gets fully up to room temperature before making any adjustments.
Very happy to know you fix it up, and give it to young people to check out so they may find out they may find the Joy of playing guitar
Great review Phil. It looks like this guitar is an excellent choice for beginners. My kids have really started to take playing seriously and some of their friends are coming over to the house and also showing interest. Thanks to this review I would feel comfortable recommending this guitar to one of their parents looking to buy their kid a guitar.
Great informative video as always, Phil. Seems like a great value. I really dig the satin finish on the body. Would look sweet with a matte black pick guard!
I've owned all kinds of guitars, American/Mexican/Chinese, etc., and now own one American Fender and three Squiers. Squier is killing the game right now.
Dude I would have been thrilled to get a nice guitar like that when I first starting playing. Major applause for you donating them brother.
I have 3 of these. At $100 ea., they are a steal! Pair it with a Fender Mustang LT-25 ($150), and you will be good to go. The only upgrades I made were locking tuners.
I also have a Fender Strat which is awesome and totally worth the money when you are ready to advance to next level. But, I play my Squires more because of the lighter weight.
Seems very decent for the money. I do wonder what Fender / Squier are doing for their brand value selling these in USA / European markets.
Sounds terrific, shows you the profit the big brands are making !
The Gear may help a little even inspire but it's the Guy or girl not the gear. Anyone telling you otherwise doesn't know what they are talking about. Talent can't be bought or replicated. Good to see someone supporting new players as they come into their own especially in school! Thanks for that mate!
Phil I gotta say I’ve learned so much from you. You’ve inspired me to potentially become a guitar tech in the future
I have this one just starting. Thank you for the video.
You have to admit that would be a great first guitar and for the price you can't beat it! My first guitar was a late 60s fender strat (used) it was $300 in 1971
thanks for support of small local music stores.
Great video! My Squier Affinity Stratocaster has ceramic pickups and I really like the sound of them. Some Seymour Duncan pickups are ceramic.
Great video. Very educational well beyond just this guitar. Thank you!
I agree- my 2021 Chinese Strat from Fender with FMT SSH is a great guitar in every way- even fret ends, sonically ( after ear tuned pickup height ), feel, - love it!
First video ive watched of yours. I wanted you to know that you earned my subscription immediately when you said you donate these guitars to kids. Much Love bro 💜
A viewer donated this guitar to Phil, not every guitar he reviews gets donated
I'm not sure how you are measuring inductance using your multimeter, unless you are using the resistance setting and applying a specific formula? The multimeter that I use (owon HDS242S, which is not the fanciest but it does have an oscilloscope but it doesn't have anything specific to inductance so I'm curious what you're using and how you were getting that number
also confused by that. he says "lets measure the inductance" then sets it to the capacitance setting and reads out nanofarads
A thiner body is not a bad thing 😅
If I had a thiner body, I'd be worried. A thinner body, on the other hand... (".)
@@gp85hkg Sorry English is not my native language 😅😅
I totally agree, I like a thinner-bodied guitar. There's one circumstances where I know a thinner body can cause problems for people, and it's when trying to upgrade the trem block. Aftermarket trem components are made to fender size, and won't fit into these. But that's not that common of an upgrade.
I wish we had that option with Teles.
Wrong wife😂
I had a fender pro. Good but expensive. Sold it and bought a Squire and fitted golden age pickups from Stewmac. It’s lovely.
I bought this guitar in a kit with an amp and other necessities for my 14yr old son. I wasn't sure if he'd get into it but i wanted to make sure he had a good experience so i also made sure to sign him up for lessons. To your point, he's a few months in and wants to upgrade but now i have more confidence that he'll maybe stick with it. So my point is perhaps take the extra cash you save buying this guitar to spend on some guitar lessons at your local guitar shop. Also; just to throw it out there: i bought a fender dreadnaught so i could try along with him (another amazon guitar purchase but acoustic) and now my son has 2 guitars that he loves to play and i'm not suffering from buyers remorse. So maybe this price point is great because you can also pick up an acoustic with the money saved and still feel like you have some good first guitars to learn on.
I have always been a bit of a 12 inch radius fellow. My Deluxe Nashville tele is even 12 radius. With Rosewood. It's an older one with the brass saddles.
There was a time that I had a half dozen expensive name-brand guitars, and these days I have a small collection of inexpensive guitars that are surprisingly playable. There is no denying the value of the stability of the more expensive ones, but the fingers make the biggest difference. Phil can make anything sound good. :-)
I wonder how this compares to an Ibanez azes40. With this squire I'd think it should be easy to swap the bridge pickup for a humbucker. This is my fave gear channel so far. Thanks for helping me learn about gear❤