Went through this process with Casino. Started with talking to Baxter in early 2022 and received my Tele a few months ago. Process was easy, discussion was great, and the guitar came out fantastic and exactly what I wanted. Kudos to Casino, Baxter, and the Fender team.
I would have like for you to have covered things like the logistics of ordering. Deposits, final payment, what if you have to back out of the process for some reason? if we come in, do we sit across a desk and get “interviewed”? what if you get it and you absolutely hate it? What is the warrantee process like? What happens once you place your order? Can you follow the process or actually talk to the builder? I like this video, but it really ended up just covering what options they have and didn’t go into what the entire process looks and feels like. I mean, dropping $5k-$10k on a guitar that has a million options, I’d like to know more about how the process feels and what to expect from Casino.
Hey Tom, I know this is 4 months old, but I can answer some of these for you from my experience ordering a Jazzmaster with Casino last year. It may have changed, but I doubt it? Being in NC, I went to the shop to spec mine out. Walked in and told them what I’d like to do. Jonathan sat with me in the showroom, and we went through each section of the spec sheet and ironed out options. If I was on the fence on an option, Jonathan helped out with feedback to steer me in the right direction. At first, I was unsure whether I wanted a Jazzmaster or Tele. They let me spend time in the demo room playing a few CS options to help me decide, and even offered to submit a traveler for both guitars to get an idea of price. I ended up making a few changes to the specs later on, and Jonathan has been super responsive through email and phone calls. Ordered in late April 2023, the initial quote on wait time was around a year. Per the CS rep late last month, it’s due to be completed in about 2 weeks. The deposit was a flat $1,000, with the rest due when the guitar comes in. Overall, it’s been an awesome experience. Hope this helps!
I went through the process with Casino and had the pleasure of dealing with Jonathan. There is no other way I would have gone about the process. It was a very collaborative and exciting process to be a part of, and it just makes going through it all that much more special. When you’re putting down that kind of money, having such a great experience to start it all off just seems to make it all that bit more worthwhile. I went master built and have recently been contacted by Paul Waller, so my build is getting started about a year ahead of schedule, which is extra exciting! So yeah, if you’re even considering going the custom shop route, I would definitely recommend taking it with the fine folks at Casino.
Highly recommend going through Casino to order you Fender Custom Shop. I ordered a CS P bass in august with Jonathan and he took his him going through all of these specs and made the process so smooth. Can’t wait to see the creation come to life!
I turned 48 yesterday. In two years I’m gonna get a Custom Shop for my 50th birthday. I will get an Eric Clapton Strat with a maple neck from the new Ultra Strat. Vintage split tuners. Modern working tremolo. Eric Clapton pickup’s and wiring. One ply white pick guard and white plastic. The color would be with Texas Tea or Mystic Seafoam Green. Poly finish. I think that would be an amazing playing guitar. And I’ll probably call you guys when I’m ready.
@CasinoGuitars for a follow-up video could you show some pictures of guitars you’ve had in that have the different neck tints and that show the faded, aged, and faded & aged paint options?
Didn’t go through Casino, went through Fender directly, (will still highly plug Casino all day though) but will say the Custom Shop process is super exciting. If you have the option to, would absolutely say it is worth it.
I’d be interested in an explanation or demonstration of the different levels of tint that fender offers for maple necks. I can’t seem to decide on that. Also, I don’t understand the difference in the nitro finishes that are offered: flash coat, nitro, nitro w/ WLS undercoat. What are the pros and cons. Thanks!
This video is fantastic. It provides everything I was searching for. I’d like to order a Custom Shop Strat but I don’t have faith in my local dealer. I’m contacting Casino Guitars.
I'm still thinking about a strat just for the neck profile. The thing is I have a CS ''59 Tele Custom with a rosewood board. And while a like it a lot it doesn't hold a candle to my '52 RI Tele in too many ways to make it my favorite. Matter of fact today the guitar food chain is 335, 52RI, '59CS, Maple Neck Eric Johnson Strat, Les Paul and SG taking up the rear.
Any chance they install pickups sourced by the buyer? Thinking about ordering a Jaguar, being lefty I feel quite left out with current offerings from most brands. That Cobain Jaguar is nice and all but I want one as close as possible to 60's Jaguar.
I have a Custom Shop AVRI Fiesta Red based on a 61 from the early 2000's. It's a great Strat but one thing that is sort of implied without actually being said about the Custom Shop seems to be like "do you want a guitar that is REALLY well built with a TON of detail paid to it to make it a really reliable instrument that you can use and enjoy for years to come???" and I'm like "Yeah. I want that from ANY instrument and shouldn't have to pay a premium to get it..." LOL!!!
Because of neck and shoulder injuries, I have to have a Telecaster that is 7 pounds or less. I would have to buy something that you already have that is that light. Are all of your custom Shop Telecasters on your website?
The CS Showmaster is what you want. 3 models exist, one with Floyd Rose, one 2 point trem, and hardtails. The specs of pickups vary wildly, but this is how you find Dimarzio on a Fender from the release from their shop to the store. Otherwise, Seymore Duncan is the only thing they sell now. Lamer, I know. Lace isn't even around with them anymore it seems. Funny, the obvious reissue is a Strat plus, Wilkinson stuff still on it, with the Lace sensors.
Yes it's better, by the way. Nothing can add 2000. Ucks in feel though, I got Reverend that out of the box feel amd play as well as a Custom Shop, which I have several of as well. Once the CS V logo wears off, and it becomes just another guitar, you'll find its superiority isn't always apparent. I collect CS for the trades and money, I play the standard line after my setup is in place, they're prized by all who play them. Why? Cause I read up on what they do, amd do the same things to my off the shelf guitar, including respraying them if the mods require stripping the paint or lacquer. I'm skilled and use my time like this, so the result is even if it's a 200 dollar guitar, it's a banger. That's what's missing from most guitarists wheelhouse, actually fixing/repairing/modding a guitar, BUT, with great skill due to personal diligence and work ethic of the ancients. That's the key, master that, these CS wall hangers leave the discussion forever.
@@caiusmadison2996 I just looked up the show master, not a fan, looks like a Schecter with Strat headstock 🤪 But you’re right about the specs. I can’t do reverend guitars, they have ugly headstock’s, and I know that’s superficial, but it affects the way I look at it
Gotta agree, off the shelf Texas Specials suck today. The originals, however, are stellar. I has first year Lone Star Strat, its stellar, and completely smokes most strats even today.
I don’t know if they will respond or not, but I’m pretty sure the current starting prices are between $4,500-5,000 for a non Master Builder model. If you want a Master Built, I think it’s about $3,000 on top of that just for something basic from the standard Custom Shop options. Of course, the Master Builder ones offer options beyond the “standard options” and those start around $10,000 depending on what you want.
Ordered sort for lightness got a boat anchor………that was just the start of the drama, no sorry custom shop fenders and dealing with fender Australia never again!
Would you mind sharing any other dramas you had? I'm going through the process now through an Aussie retailer but just want to know what to look out for
Ordered sort for lightness which was 90% of the reason going custom shop, waited 18th month, arrived was almost as sick joke the heaviest telecaster I’ve ever held :( complained directly to Australia custom shop rep and his response (on the phone) was you get what you get :( very disappointed never again
Ordered sort for lightness which was 90% of the reason going custom shop, waited 18th month, arrived was almost as sick joke the heaviest telecaster I’ve ever held :( complained directly to Australia custom shop rep and his response (on the phone) was you get what you get :( very disappointed never again
I got a Vintera instead of an American 60s reissue one just to save the extra bucks and overall it's fine, but a couple of the newer Am Pros and things I held were too gummy.
Most people would not expect the feel of the thick 50s neck compared to the newer Modern C and all that. I didn't buy the 1957, either, although I didn't notice the body seeming too much wider and I think it had a five-way switch instead of 3.
In this economy you go to reverb and buy a mint CS fender for 30% off or more whatever you’ll get quoted doing what this video says. Or even better just buy a Squier CV and mod it to your precise specs and likes. Fantastic guitars
Went through this process with Casino. Started with talking to Baxter in early 2022 and received my Tele a few months ago. Process was easy, discussion was great, and the guitar came out fantastic and exactly what I wanted. Kudos to Casino, Baxter, and the Fender team.
I think these guys get just as excited as the person ordering the guitar. If I was ever gonna do it this is where I would order from
It's good to hear the process explained by someone who knows their stuff. Thanks for this excellent video.
Can you have a Squier logo on ths headstock?
You’re so cool, informative, knowledgeable, and honest. I really appreciate all you do here. And a great player to boot!
I would have like for you to have covered things like the logistics of ordering. Deposits, final payment, what if you have to back out of the process for some reason? if we come in, do we sit across a desk and get “interviewed”? what if you get it and you absolutely hate it? What is the warrantee process like? What happens once you place your order? Can you follow the process or actually talk to the builder?
I like this video, but it really ended up just covering what options they have and didn’t go into what the entire process looks and feels like. I mean, dropping $5k-$10k on a guitar that has a million options, I’d like to know more about how the process feels and what to expect from Casino.
Hey Tom,
I know this is 4 months old, but I can answer some of these for you from my experience ordering a Jazzmaster with Casino last year. It may have changed, but I doubt it?
Being in NC, I went to the shop to spec mine out. Walked in and told them what I’d like to do. Jonathan sat with me in the showroom, and we went through each section of the spec sheet and ironed out options. If I was on the fence on an option, Jonathan helped out with feedback to steer me in the right direction.
At first, I was unsure whether I wanted a Jazzmaster or Tele. They let me spend time in the demo room playing a few CS options to help me decide, and even offered to submit a traveler for both guitars to get an idea of price.
I ended up making a few changes to the specs later on, and Jonathan has been super responsive through email and phone calls. Ordered in late April 2023, the initial quote on wait time was around a year. Per the CS rep late last month, it’s due to be completed in about 2 weeks. The deposit was a flat $1,000, with the rest due when the guitar comes in. Overall, it’s been an awesome experience.
Hope this helps!
Loved this video. Can you make custom shops for people who live in Vancouver Canada?
I went through the process with Casino and had the pleasure of dealing with Jonathan. There is no other way I would have gone about the process. It was a very collaborative and exciting process to be a part of, and it just makes going through it all that much more special. When you’re putting down that kind of money, having such a great experience to start it all off just seems to make it all that bit more worthwhile. I went master built and have recently been contacted by Paul Waller, so my build is getting started about a year ahead of schedule, which is extra exciting! So yeah, if you’re even considering going the custom shop route, I would definitely recommend taking it with the fine folks at Casino.
Highly recommend going through Casino to order you Fender Custom Shop. I ordered a CS P bass in august with Jonathan and he took his him going through all of these specs and made the process so smooth. Can’t wait to see the creation come to life!
Great video. I like this new format. I look forward to seeing the new videos. Happy Thanksgiving!
I turned 48 yesterday. In two years I’m gonna get a Custom Shop for my 50th birthday. I will get an Eric Clapton Strat with a maple neck from the new Ultra Strat. Vintage split tuners. Modern working tremolo. Eric Clapton pickup’s and wiring. One ply white pick guard and white plastic. The color would be with Texas Tea or Mystic Seafoam Green. Poly finish. I think that would be an amazing playing guitar. And I’ll probably call you guys when I’m ready.
Man, plugging this every bloody hour. Ease up.
Aye
@CasinoGuitars for a follow-up video could you show some pictures of guitars you’ve had in that have the different neck tints and that show the faded, aged, and faded & aged paint options?
Didn’t go through Casino, went through Fender directly, (will still highly plug Casino all day though) but will say the Custom Shop process is super exciting. If you have the option to, would absolutely say it is worth it.
Two questions, can I get stainless steel frets? Also can I get custom colors (Tiffany blueish specifically)?
I’d be interested in an explanation or demonstration of the different levels of tint that fender offers for maple necks. I can’t seem to decide on that. Also, I don’t understand the difference in the nitro finishes that are offered: flash coat, nitro, nitro w/ WLS undercoat. What are the pros and cons. Thanks!
Biggest question I've had is the if the upcharge is a lot for roasted woods
This video is fantastic. It provides everything I was searching for. I’d like to order a Custom Shop Strat but I don’t have faith in my local dealer. I’m contacting Casino Guitars.
I'm still thinking about a strat just for the neck profile. The thing is I have a CS ''59 Tele Custom with a rosewood board. And while a like it a lot it doesn't hold a candle to my '52 RI Tele in too many ways to make it my favorite. Matter of fact today the guitar food chain is 335, 52RI, '59CS, Maple Neck Eric Johnson Strat, Les Paul and SG taking up the rear.
I love that there are no Fenders on the Fender Custom Shop wall! Lol
Ordered my Strat last Nov with Sean. Looking forward to getting it soon! Got ideas on the next one...
does anyone knows if you get to choose between rift sawn or quarter sawn neck in the team built level?
Step 1. Rob a bank or sell a kidney.
Step 2. Call Casino Guitars...
how do you afford a fender custom shop?
Any chance they install pickups sourced by the buyer? Thinking about ordering a Jaguar, being lefty I feel quite left out with current offerings from most brands. That Cobain Jaguar is nice and all but I want one as close as possible to 60's Jaguar.
I have a Custom Shop AVRI Fiesta Red based on a 61 from the early 2000's. It's a great Strat but one thing that is sort of implied without actually being said about the Custom Shop seems to be like "do you want a guitar that is REALLY well built with a TON of detail paid to it to make it a really reliable instrument that you can use and enjoy for years to come???" and I'm like "Yeah. I want that from ANY instrument and shouldn't have to pay a premium to get it..." LOL!!!
Can you get ebony fretboards?
Yes, Ebony is an option, as is African Blackwood.
Because of neck and shoulder injuries, I have to have a Telecaster that is 7 pounds or less. I would have to buy something that you already have that is that light. Are all of your custom Shop Telecasters on your website?
How bout a Masterbuilt Ultra HSS Strat, super flame maple neck, no relic, would it be $2000 better than the current $2199 Ultra Strat?
The CS Showmaster is what you want. 3 models exist, one with Floyd Rose, one 2 point trem, and hardtails. The specs of pickups vary wildly, but this is how you find Dimarzio on a Fender from the release from their shop to the store. Otherwise, Seymore Duncan is the only thing they sell now. Lamer, I know. Lace isn't even around with them anymore it seems. Funny, the obvious reissue is a Strat plus, Wilkinson stuff still on it, with the Lace sensors.
Yes it's better, by the way. Nothing can add 2000. Ucks in feel though, I got Reverend that out of the box feel amd play as well as a Custom Shop, which I have several of as well. Once the CS V logo wears off, and it becomes just another guitar, you'll find its superiority isn't always apparent. I collect CS for the trades and money, I play the standard line after my setup is in place, they're prized by all who play them. Why? Cause I read up on what they do, amd do the same things to my off the shelf guitar, including respraying them if the mods require stripping the paint or lacquer. I'm skilled and use my time like this, so the result is even if it's a 200 dollar guitar, it's a banger. That's what's missing from most guitarists wheelhouse, actually fixing/repairing/modding a guitar, BUT, with great skill due to personal diligence and work ethic of the ancients. That's the key, master that, these CS wall hangers leave the discussion forever.
@@caiusmadison2996 I just looked up the show master, not a fan, looks like a Schecter with Strat headstock 🤪
But you’re right about the specs. I can’t do reverend guitars, they have ugly headstock’s, and I know that’s superficial, but it affects the way I look at it
Does Fender do Custom shop bass guitars? (Jazz or Precision) I'd be interested in that.
Of course
True story folks. Baxter spent several hours on the phone and emails over several months. When your ready, you can't go wrong specing with Casino.
Hardware?
just checked your website order form and the custom shops form. neither had a mustang option. do they not make those or are they master built only?
Probably masterbuilt only
How do you pay for it ? Deposit ? In full ?
Wot’s uh the deal ?
Pink Floyd liked your comment
@@clos87 exactly !
Gotta agree, off the shelf Texas Specials suck today. The originals, however, are stellar. I has first year Lone Star Strat, its stellar, and completely smokes most strats even today.
Masterbuilt please!
It's funny, they have a Fender Custom Shop Banner up with a bunch of Gibson guitars hanging in front of it.
Prices?
I don’t know if they will respond or not, but I’m pretty sure the current starting prices are between $4,500-5,000 for a non Master Builder model. If you want a Master Built, I think it’s about $3,000 on top of that just for something basic from the standard Custom Shop options. Of course, the Master Builder ones offer options beyond the “standard options” and those start around $10,000 depending on what you want.
Fender Custom Shop blurb and on the wall with Custom Shop logo Gibson guitars 😂
Ordered sort for lightness got a boat anchor………that was just the start of the drama, no sorry custom shop fenders and dealing with fender Australia never again!
Would you mind sharing any other dramas you had? I'm going through the process now through an Aussie retailer but just want to know what to look out for
Ordered sort for lightness which was 90% of the reason going custom shop, waited 18th month, arrived was almost as sick joke the heaviest telecaster I’ve ever held :( complained directly to Australia custom shop rep and his response (on the phone) was you get what you get :( very disappointed never again
Ordered sort for lightness which was 90% of the reason going custom shop, waited 18th month, arrived was almost as sick joke the heaviest telecaster I’ve ever held :( complained directly to Australia custom shop rep and his response (on the phone) was you get what you get :( very disappointed never again
@@grahamkelsey8687 sorry to hear about your bad experience mate, definitely something I'll keep an eye on
I'm just not sure why most vids I see where they do a head-to-head with the Custom vs. a True Vintage, the Vint always sounds better.
But I've also seen at least one vid where the guy has a Cust that sounds great but he says he doesn't like the neck or whatever and sells it. ???
Closet Classic or Journey is probably about the most fake aging I would want.
The problem with a lot the NEW Fenders is they're putting WAY TOO MUCH gloss on the neck, so here you're just paying them extra to take it back off.
I got a Vintera instead of an American 60s reissue one just to save the extra bucks and overall it's fine, but a couple of the newer Am Pros and things I held were too gummy.
Most people would not expect the feel of the thick 50s neck compared to the newer Modern C and all that. I didn't buy the 1957, either, although I didn't notice the body seeming too much wider and I think it had a five-way switch instead of 3.
in this economy?
In this economy you go to reverb and buy a mint CS fender for 30% off or more whatever you’ll get quoted doing what this video says. Or even better just buy a Squier CV and mod it to your precise specs and likes. Fantastic guitars
Yawn
The question isn't "HOW". It's "WHY".