Interview with Ron Thorn, Fender Custom Shop Principal Master Builder (by Massimo D'Angelo)

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  • Опубліковано 2 чер 2024
  • During the Thomann Gearhead University - June 2019- we had the chance to spend few minutes with Ron Thorn, amazing guy and Principal Mater Builder from the Fender Custom Shop...and yes, we put a Gibson Les Paul in his hands!
    Guitars in the video:
    - Fender 65 Strat Heavy Relic AOW: www.thomann.de/gb/fender_65_s...
    - Gibson True Historic LP 57 GT Aged: www.thomann.de/gb/gibson_true...
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,6 тис.

  • @ParallaxRS
    @ParallaxRS 4 роки тому +1988

    This guy looks old and young at the same time... My guess is he's a young guy who's been reliced

  • @connor4186
    @connor4186 4 роки тому +764

    It’s funny how machine manufacturing was made to eliminate the human error and variability between products.
    Now it’s a luxury for hand made or variances

    • @ezer0923
      @ezer0923 4 роки тому +45

      That's why I like PRS' approach. Let the machine do what they do best, and let hands do the rest

    • @fernank017
      @fernank017 4 роки тому +9

      @@ezer0923 so most mass produced squiers?

    • @rimmersbryggeri
      @rimmersbryggeri 4 роки тому +3

      They use CNC in the customshop though.

    • @mouloudo
      @mouloudo 4 роки тому +13

      Mmm not really it was because it's more cost efficient

    • @vonicrimson3619
      @vonicrimson3619 4 роки тому +2

      Indonesia with the Squiers....

  • @Gibson1961SG
    @Gibson1961SG 4 роки тому +1292

    8:33 is what you came for.

  • @joeysgear1419
    @joeysgear1419 4 роки тому +455

    I had just saved up $5,000 for a custom shop fender. After listening to Mr Thorn talk for 2 minutes I've decided to purchase a Squier Affinity instead. I'm going to spend the rest on Kobe beef and a sous-vide machine.

    • @fernandes5986
      @fernandes5986 4 роки тому +8

      They are great. I have one too. Just give it a good setup.

    • @thephaze3
      @thephaze3 4 роки тому +38

      Just be aware the Squier he's talking about from the 80s is in a completely different league to anything they put out now

    • @thephaze3
      @thephaze3 4 роки тому +5

      They really are great guitars for the money though.

    • @LaMusicade4
      @LaMusicade4 4 роки тому

      JOEYS GEAR dude

    • @LaMusicade4
      @LaMusicade4 4 роки тому +6

      I picked up an affinity squier tele for 180 $ US and it’s beautiful

  • @robertclarkguitar
    @robertclarkguitar 4 роки тому +471

    The master builder says his favorite is a Squier. That's kick ass!

    • @Fullofpies
      @Fullofpies 4 роки тому +8

      There's another video where he talks more about it.

    • @magnuspleshardt8786
      @magnuspleshardt8786 4 роки тому

      @@Fullofpies Do you have the link for this video?

    • @robertclarkguitar
      @robertclarkguitar 4 роки тому +10

      @@magnuspleshardt8786 Its on phillip McKnight channel ...Jon Cruz picks thru squiers and then mentions it in the video.

    • @robertclarkguitar
      @robertclarkguitar 4 роки тому +4

      Not jon Cruz. My bad. RON THORN I MEANT

    • @Seaker24
      @Seaker24 4 роки тому +11

      I could be wrong about this in the context of his strat, but the early Japanese Squires are really good and sought after. I have an early Japanese Strat that is old school specs and build. The electronics sucked though, those almost always need to be swapped out on the early Japanese Strats.

  • @TylerJHaley
    @TylerJHaley 4 роки тому +247

    Ron is probably the most honest person ever. Being the man in charge at fender while also loving a squire and giving honest opinions about Gibson is amazing. You can always rely on a truthful and thoughtful response from this man. Much respect for him.

    • @GuitarsExchangeDotCom
      @GuitarsExchangeDotCom  4 роки тому +6

      Absolutely true!

    • @Soldano999
      @Soldano999 Рік тому +7

      1985 squiers were made in japan.
      They're some of the best strats ever produced.

    • @madhatter8508
      @madhatter8508 Рік тому +1

      @@Soldano999 I was reading about the Squier guitars made for Courtney Love around 1999 for Hole's Celebrity Skin album, and those Squiers were made in Japan too. When did Squier stop making their guitars in Japan?

    • @Soldano999
      @Soldano999 Рік тому +1

      @@madhatter8508 i don't think they kept making mij squiers after 2000. Never seen one. I would have bought one if they did...

    • @Astro_touches_children
      @Astro_touches_children Рік тому +3

      @@Soldano999 it doesn't matter the make, it doesn't matter the country of origin, if you have a nice guitar that plays great in your hands,then you have an awesome guitar.
      The King of Cheap Guitars 🎸

  • @creepton6893
    @creepton6893 4 роки тому +97

    "let me move over so that Jimi can take over." Just epic.

  • @joshoptical
    @joshoptical 4 роки тому +546

    You know you’re dealing with an 80’s kid when the neck pickup on a Les Paul is “a little useless” 😂. Great piece here.

    • @mdaibm4770
      @mdaibm4770 4 роки тому +7

      mind explaining why?

    • @NailedDownClick
      @NailedDownClick 4 роки тому +83

      @@mdaibm4770 My guess is that the neck pickup has a more fatter bassy rounded sound and 80's kids were all about shredding and copying famous shredders so it was all about the bridge pick up. I mostly only play acoustic these days but now that i think about it i did use the neck pick up alot less but its definitely not useless ha.

    • @mdaibm4770
      @mdaibm4770 4 роки тому +6

      @@NailedDownClick thanks for explaining!

    • @golfhound
      @golfhound 4 роки тому +6

      Andy Summers of the Police used his bridge pickup on his telecaster almost exclusively while with the Police. He relied heavily on all of the sounds he developed in his custom made pedal board.

    • @cgreeneblue
      @cgreeneblue 4 роки тому +10

      @@mdaibm4770 Remember he's a Master builder. I think he's implying it doesn't change the sound very much compared to some of the fenders. He's used to toggling through 5 position switches on strats I'm guessing.

  • @alexrivers6059
    @alexrivers6059 4 роки тому +864

    How do you feel about the Gibson?
    “It’s not a fender”

    • @adrian5b
      @adrian5b 4 роки тому +22

      well he's right

    • @jamesryan5436
      @jamesryan5436 4 роки тому +15

      Couldn't give a better answer than that

    • @paulnjoo
      @paulnjoo 4 роки тому +17

      I have one of each, a 2006 Fender Strat HSS and a 1996 Gibson Les Paul and if my house was on fire and I could only save one guitar it would be hands down the Gibson.
      The Fender is a jack of all trades guitar, is very versatile and is great if you have small hands. The Les Paul is a thing of beauty and is so much easier to play due to it's short scale neck and sounds incredible when cranked up with so much more sustain than my Fender.
      My Les Paul cost 4 times that of my Strat and for good reason the build quality, ease of play and sheer weight of the mahogany through neck design justifies the price tag.
      I would say the Les Paul is a single minded beast and is probably more suited to rock than any other style of music whilst the Strat can do most things well especially that legendary clean tone.
      But again if I could only have one guitar for the rest of my days it would be my Gibson.

    • @billyhodges4200
      @billyhodges4200 4 роки тому +9

      @@paulnjoo to each their own. I love my 87 Les Paul custom, amazing guitar. But in those circumstances I'd save my 61 Telecaster. And I paid half the price for the fender than the Gibson. Both are absolutely amazing. And preferably I'd save both (my other 3 guitars are cheap so easy to replace) but yeah, the tele is my favorite

    • @paulnjoo
      @paulnjoo 4 роки тому +8

      @@billyhodges4200 I have both my Strat and my Les Paul on wall hangers in my lounge and when I feel like noodling I instinctively take the Gibson down and start playing. I have to deliberately make myself play the Fender because I sub consciously know it's not as easy or pleasurable to play.
      But as you rightly say "to each their own" They are both wonderful instruments which will outlive us and be played for many many years to come. As we know we don't really "own" these instruments we're just looking after them for the next person!!

  • @no-tj8ee
    @no-tj8ee 4 роки тому +276

    This guy seems old and young at the same time

    • @burakbey1068
      @burakbey1068 4 роки тому +27

      he is relic master builder

    • @cb-99
      @cb-99 4 роки тому +18

      His hair makes him look like he's in his mid-60s, but just looking at his face, you'd think he was in his late-30s or early-40s.

    • @TheKyleMark
      @TheKyleMark 4 роки тому +2

      He looks like Joshua Malina in a wig. In the best way.

    • @navsnipe
      @navsnipe 4 роки тому +1

      He was born in 1969

    • @joshuahuf9747
      @joshuahuf9747 4 роки тому

      @@navsnipe so hes 50 cool

  • @FirearmsGunGear
    @FirearmsGunGear 4 роки тому +58

    09:38 "there's a little flat spot there but that's alright.... Just like the original I'm sure"
    Saucer of milk for table 2

  • @gabrielfernandez9792
    @gabrielfernandez9792 4 роки тому +212

    Ron knows just how to finesse his answers so that neither regular fenders or custom shop fenders are not undermined, and even manages to give a Gibson Les Paul review without sounding negative about the competition.

    • @justjazz784
      @justjazz784 4 роки тому +29

      Gabriel Fernandez with this profession I imagine there’s a big level of camaraderie among the different guitar makers on an individual level. People making custom shop guitars are high level craftsmen so there’s going to be a lot of respect for the instrument.

    • @keithferris9574
      @keithferris9574 4 роки тому +4

      He should represent the Custom Fenders with pride and conviction. There is no need to parse words to not insult the other Fender models. I would respect his views more if he were more realistic and less political

    • @ikigai47
      @ikigai47 4 роки тому +12

      @@keithferris9574 - It's not like he owns the company. Hard to be brash when you're representing Fender and have bosses to answer to

    • @3spressoShot
      @3spressoShot 4 роки тому +11

      @@ikigai47 plus its not like hes necessarily lying, elctronic wise they are not crazy better. its the fit and finish , fine tuning , and craftsmanship. your paying to know that you had hand selected top grade materials, and tuned to perfection when it arrives. its the whole bang for you buck thing. at a certain point you are getting diminishing returns

    • @themerchantofmenace3645
      @themerchantofmenace3645 4 роки тому +6

      Competition? You don't go shopping for a Fender and then accidentally buy a Gibson. Unless you're new to playing - then you don't shop for either!

  • @clake1976
    @clake1976 4 роки тому +20

    It's crazy how different everyone hears things,the neck pick up on a Les Paul is my favorite,so thick and just sings with crazy sustain

  • @herculesbrofister265
    @herculesbrofister265 4 роки тому +279

    Lemme tell you whippersnappers somethin. Back in my day, when i first started, $150 would get you some no name guitar made of plywood. Great days to play guitar, these days

    • @BeefheartLynch
      @BeefheartLynch 4 роки тому +20

      Back in my day, I bought a used, but very clean Gibson SG Custom and a used but working Fender Princeton amp. $250 total. Roughly 1976-'77.

    • @APolishPlayer
      @APolishPlayer 4 роки тому +13

      @@BeefheartLynch even though that was a good chunk of money back then, that's still an extremely low price. God, I wish I could get my hands on stuff with prices like that now. I need to go to more yard sales and stuff 😂

    • @BeefheartLynch
      @BeefheartLynch 4 роки тому +16

      @@APolishPlayer It seemed like a lot of money back then. Especially for a 13 year old whose income consisted of mowing neighbors lawns for 5 or 10 bucks a pop. However, I used to go into this guitar shop a lot and became friendly with the staff. I think the felt sorry for me. Ha. They were asking, if I can trust a 40+ year old memory, 300 for the SG. The amp hadn't hit the floor yet, but I asked if they had any decent cheap amps. Told me about the Princeton and said it needed work. I had $280 in my pocket and offered $250 for both and they accepted. Then I gulped, realizing 250 bucks in 1977 for a 13 year old is a whole lot of money! I wish I still had that SG.

    • @jeffshuck3125
      @jeffshuck3125 4 роки тому +2

      BeffheartLynch
      In today's dollars guitars are less expensive then in 1976 even Gibson's

    • @shk73
      @shk73 4 роки тому +3

      @@BeefheartLynch In 1991 I bought a 77 gibson les paul custom for $500. Saved up money working the buffet station at the Ponderosa steak house.

  • @whatwouldhousedo5136
    @whatwouldhousedo5136 4 роки тому +19

    Guilds are highly underrated- not surprised he has several.

  • @kenhall6525
    @kenhall6525 4 роки тому +333

    Ron seems like a good dude, seen a bunch of videos with him, hoping too see more

    • @SimpleManGuitars1973
      @SimpleManGuitars1973 4 роки тому +2

      Yeah he seems more approachable than John Cruz but I did play a Cruz one about 15 years ago and it was the greatest Strat I've ever had in my hands. It was also 7 GRAND!

    • @stephenfeldman8104
      @stephenfeldman8104 4 роки тому +10

      I sold Ron a Guild Nightbird. Years later I got to meet him when I moved to SoCal and he treated me a tour of his shop. You will not meet a nicer person in your time spent on Earth than Ron. And you will also not likely find anyone who would disagree with that opinion.

    • @donvanco3078
      @donvanco3078 4 роки тому +7

      I am fortunate enough to have worked with Ron on making a custom Thorn Rune - there is not a nicer guy in the industry. And his talent speaks for itself.
      Mine: imgur.com/a/nWBUl (I did the dye job on the top, Ron did the rest)

  • @francoforte-67
    @francoforte-67 4 роки тому +42

    It's nice that there are both brands.
    It is a pleasure to play a Strat, it is a pleasure to play a Les Paul.
    I don't want to miss either of them

    • @jimmyjoe1871
      @jimmyjoe1871 Рік тому +1

      This!

    • @johndutton5881
      @johndutton5881 Рік тому

      Too bad for the volume knob on the strat,makes them absolutely unplayable for me,I sold mine after the neck warped twice ,that and the volume. Never had a Gibson neck bow like that American strat did,I could have used it for hunting.

    • @christhayil8354
      @christhayil8354 Рік тому +2

      You can absolutely love both Gibson and Fender!!! It's not like Chevy or Ford and definitely not Democrat or Republican. A real guitar lover will love all guitars!!!!!!!

    • @2m7b5
      @2m7b5 Рік тому +1

      @@johndutton5881 I ended up rewiring my strat to have 1 volume and 1 tone, and I moved the knobs away from the strings a bit. It's probably my favorite guitar now.

  • @christopherotoole532
    @christopherotoole532 4 роки тому +415

    Dude looks like Joe Satriani with hair

    • @Soloist1983
      @Soloist1983 4 роки тому +7

      Haha, exactly! Even sounds a little like him

    • @j_freed
      @j_freed 4 роки тому

      There's some Southern European in this boy for sure.

    • @dougdavis8986
      @dougdavis8986 4 роки тому

      Dork

    • @niklasmartensson6051
      @niklasmartensson6051 4 роки тому +1

      Dude I think he looks like Kirk Hammett :/

    • @josemesa5384
      @josemesa5384 4 роки тому +7

      For me, he looks like Dave Murray from Iron Maiden lol

  • @redrock1963
    @redrock1963 4 роки тому +9

    It's good to see David St. Hubbins is still in the music industry.

  • @jimmyjoe1871
    @jimmyjoe1871 Рік тому +13

    Both custom shops are fantastic. They both build instruments that put a smile on your face every time you play them.

  • @Salguine
    @Salguine 4 роки тому +101

    I have yet to see a relic job that you couldn't tell at a glance was a relic job.

    • @therealrobstark2916
      @therealrobstark2916 4 роки тому +5

      I'll relic your guitar for free 😂

    • @Tomislav_B.
      @Tomislav_B. 4 роки тому +1

      How many of Custom Shop relics have you seen in person?

    • @Swampster70
      @Swampster70 4 роки тому +2

      Watch the video of Yngwie looking at the Custom Shop relics of The Duck - the "play loud" guitar. Watch the expressions on his face and the tone in his voice and it's one of bewilderment and amazement. That's how good those recreations are.
      Making a guitar look period aged is actually fairly easy if you think about how those guitar got in that state and you're prepared to put in the hours doing it. Even the best guys at the Fender Custom Shop spend many many hours doing a good relic, not the hatchet job that is often seen on UA-cam.

    • @christschin3708
      @christschin3708 4 роки тому

      Philip Merrihew
      Exactly.
      Every guitar I own, has wear made by me, through playing.
      It’s personal.

    • @captainbob406
      @captainbob406 4 роки тому +2

      Agreed, hard to believe people pay money for a new guitar made to look old and used. Not something that will ever be in my inventory. But like you said, to each his own....

  • @mikepierce1228
    @mikepierce1228 4 роки тому +27

    Good communicator. Knows his stuff. Treats it as a passion, not a competition.

  • @reddsshaker3477
    @reddsshaker3477 Рік тому +2

    Can’t believe how far Ron Thorn has come since he was building his own guitars with his Dad.

  • @christopherkahn6522
    @christopherkahn6522 4 роки тому +4

    He has a funny look on his face as he holds the Les Paul. It's almost like sleeping with the enemy, as he says "he can't get with it." To me, Custom Shop Fenders and Gibsons are just the best. I know there are many luthiers out there, but we live in a kind of golden age of high quality choices.

  • @TheRnB69
    @TheRnB69 4 роки тому +304

    I didn’t know Ben franklin builds fenders?

  • @shtdaprdtr
    @shtdaprdtr 4 роки тому +13

    The neck pickup is definitely not useless...you just have to know how to use it! A les Paul's neck pickup is the only reason I dont play juniors or single pickup superstrats and I came from the school of EVH.

  • @richarddeem6169
    @richarddeem6169 4 роки тому +192

    9:45 casually says he has 40-50 guitars

    • @destianpatrianagara1119
      @destianpatrianagara1119 4 роки тому +13

      Yet none of them are gibson :))

    • @rendyandrian7149
      @rendyandrian7149 4 роки тому +29

      Ron day job is in guitar factory which means he is surrounded by guitars all day long. When he goes home, he sees all of his guitar collections. I can't imagine whether it is exciting or boring.

    • @StephenMorganCanada
      @StephenMorganCanada 4 роки тому +1

      Richard Deem don’t we all?

    • @shmooless3699
      @shmooless3699 4 роки тому +1

      @@destianpatrianagara1119 youre right none are gibson, nearly all are fender yet his favorite is the 85 squier bullet

    • @glassbox7761
      @glassbox7761 4 роки тому +8

      @@destianpatrianagara1119 I don't believe him. I think he's forced to say that. Finally he says that nothing sounds like this, holding up the Les Paul. Do you really believe he doesn't have a few Gibsons?

  • @LesleyLesPaul
    @LesleyLesPaul 4 роки тому +4

    Flipping the glasses back:
    'It is a Goldtop !'
    A very funny video, I like him. LES

  • @tickedoffsheikh8587
    @tickedoffsheikh8587 3 роки тому +4

    I've followed many videos of Principal Master Builder Ron Thorn and one thing that always stands out about him is his humility, simplicity and honesty. I have plenty of respect for a guy like him. Wish to someday meet with him. Wish him all the best in his endeavors.

  • @MikeSuttonXerox
    @MikeSuttonXerox 4 роки тому +22

    Ron Thorn has to be the nicest Luthier in Earth. Seen a lot of his interviews and he’s the most gracious person ever and knows the heck out of his craft. Awesome Fender has chosen him as a Public Spokesperson of sorts to tour around and spearhead they’re Marketing...excellent choice Fender!

    • @vwharman
      @vwharman 4 роки тому

      Mike Sutton too true. Thorn is a great representative. Gibson has chosen Mark Agnesi. Honestly. If they didn’t make the Les Paul, would Gibby be relevant anymore at all?

  • @78fty95
    @78fty95 Рік тому +4

    Love how humble he is. One of better known Fender luthiers but is still so fast so give other people credit. No ego with this guy! 🤘🏼

    • @SaintKimbo
      @SaintKimbo Рік тому

      No one that goes by the name ' Principle Master Builder' could be called humble.

  • @edpitman7035
    @edpitman7035 4 роки тому +8

    Love Ron’s enthusiasm

  • @matthoward1174
    @matthoward1174 4 роки тому +30

    Ron builds the most killer 335's called the Grantura. He's no stranger to Gibson stuff.

    • @chonadams331
      @chonadams331 4 роки тому +2

      True, his own brand is more inclined to Gibo style and design.

  • @liorauf
    @liorauf 4 роки тому +5

    Ron is the man! Recommend look after his craftsmanships! Beyond awesome!

  • @piotrkarel
    @piotrkarel 4 роки тому +7

    what a nice and humble person! love that guy!

  • @benjaminnevins5211
    @benjaminnevins5211 4 роки тому +2

    Wow, great questions!

  • @michaelivan9066
    @michaelivan9066 4 роки тому +132

    A les Paul neck position pickup with the tone knob slightly rolled back sounds fantastic.

    • @shreddykrueger2408
      @shreddykrueger2408 4 роки тому +1

      Thank you

    • @pittbrat7963
      @pittbrat7963 4 роки тому +5

      yeah, on 1 out of 50 Gibsons you try out... on the other 49 it sounds like "useless".

    • @simonharwood8488
      @simonharwood8488 4 роки тому +7

      Slash knows exactly how and when to use both LP pickups e.g. when he switches to the bridge one mid-solo in Sweet Child o Mine

    • @robspear03
      @robspear03 4 роки тому +19

      @@pittbrat7963 Have you tested 50 in a row, from the same batch?
      Shut up.

    • @michaelivan9066
      @michaelivan9066 4 роки тому +7

      filip hendrickx I’ve owned at least 50 guitars including at least 10 Gibson’s and the Gibson’s are some of the best I’ve owned. Name a brand and I either own it or have owned it.

  • @w13rdguy
    @w13rdguy 4 роки тому +4

    Thank you, Ron Thorn and Fender, for being part of this event. It really adds a quality of authenticity to the entire proceedings! Ron is actually humble(and honest) to a fault, if such a thing is possible.

  • @richardfenner6096
    @richardfenner6096 4 роки тому

    Great to see you again, Ron, if only on here. Happy New Year to you and Pilar! Miss you guys... ~ Ridge.

  • @joshua0226
    @joshua0226 4 роки тому +2

    There is no best, all are different . The one that feels like home and makes you want to play is the best winner for a person.

  • @MrBighairyass
    @MrBighairyass 4 роки тому +51

    His personality reminds me of Kirk Hammett...nice guy...

    • @ikigai47
      @ikigai47 4 роки тому

      Ron is cool af. Kirk is a massive douchebag

    • @wavetech_
      @wavetech_ 4 роки тому

      @@ikigai47 how so, if you don't mind me asking?

    • @rossatron2050
      @rossatron2050 4 роки тому

      I’d say there’s a little Rick Moranis mixed in there.

  • @brianpalay
    @brianpalay 4 роки тому +7

    I love Gisbons and Fenders. There's room for both in my stable, and I'm proud to have them and put them to use.

    • @Juno58
      @Juno58 Рік тому

      I love Gisbons and Fedners too. But also Abinez and RSP.

  • @exknoll4755
    @exknoll4755 Рік тому

    The neck is my favourite part of the les Paul pickups! It’s so bold and warm. Crazy talk!!!!

  • @Uncle--Fatty
    @Uncle--Fatty Рік тому

    that's the dang ol' best JuneTeenth EVER...!! Happy New Year OL' Les... keep on rockin' in the... Clouds...

  • @daviddequasie6816
    @daviddequasie6816 4 роки тому +5

    I saw Dickey Betts about 20 years ago. One of the nicest guitar tones ever. He played a Les Paul on most of the tunes and used only the neck pickup the entire time.

  • @jamesmunro5368
    @jamesmunro5368 4 роки тому +7

    Love it. Wants a particular guitar. Makes it himself.

  • @kirkscobey3031
    @kirkscobey3031 4 роки тому +2

    Always a thumbs up when Rob Thorn is in any video!!!

  • @Sebastian_Aravena
    @Sebastian_Aravena Рік тому +1

    Nothing sounds like this.
    Damn right!

  • @JaviBee
    @JaviBee Рік тому +3

    It really is amazing how far budget instruments have come over the last 20 years

  • @Hemifan4266
    @Hemifan4266 Рік тому +3

    I am a lefty with a lefty Strat and lefty LP. I love them both. The contours of the Strat make it an amazing comfortable guitar to play. And the unique sounds of each remind me how happy I am to own both. Great interview...

  • @IFIXATVS
    @IFIXATVS 4 роки тому +2

    What a gentleman to be handed a Gibson and not immediately trash it and its reputation. I started as a Fender player but now I go more for my 90’s Epiphone SG. Nothing sounds like it in my opinion. As is always said, tone is subjective! Find what you like and make it yours.

  • @BellTunnel
    @BellTunnel 4 роки тому +2

    Ron’s a class act and always seems so authentic and laid back. Great, natural response when put on the spot with the Lester.

    • @Vichedges
      @Vichedges 4 роки тому

      How was that response "natural"? I mean the guy is a top level Fender employee. Of course he's going to toe the company line. Like I said in other posts it's probably just a coincidence that all the guitars he owns are Fender products lol.

  • @BrettSmithDaniels
    @BrettSmithDaniels 4 роки тому +3

    I'm a Fender guy first and foremost, but the in-between position on an SG or Les Paul is unbelievably good. I guarantee most people don't realise THAT is actually the sound on the early funk records by the Meters!! I always thought it was a strat but it was a gibbo

    • @unitoftemp
      @unitoftemp 4 роки тому

      In between pickup positions in general sound amazing.

  • @jonathangoin
    @jonathangoin 4 роки тому +18

    He talks about Eric Gales being the “current” Hendrix. Well let me tell you this much... if you haven’t heard of Eric Gales or seen his videos then you absolutely need to check him out. He is on another level.

    • @TheWolvesCurse
      @TheWolvesCurse 4 роки тому

      i havn't, and will take your suggestion and give the man a listen this evening when i get some time to myself.

    • @pabloperez4063
      @pabloperez4063 4 роки тому

      ThE new "somebody" ....means a bad copy of this "somebody".

  • @charlesharper7292
    @charlesharper7292 3 роки тому

    I've been playing a Fender limited custom Telecaster FMT HH for about a year and a half. Absolutely LOVE it. I'll be picking up a couple more so I always have one. My Ibanez is awfully lonely now.

  • @stevemorse108
    @stevemorse108 Рік тому

    Great honest feedback.

  • @cody8804
    @cody8804 4 роки тому +5

    I understand where he’s coming from saying les Paul’s just aren’t his thing (keeping in mind he works for fender though of course), but I could not disagree more with him saying the neck pickup is “a little useless”. That is THE Clapton Cream sound. Amongst countless others

  • @kiddriftwood23
    @kiddriftwood23 4 роки тому +2

    "I better move over, let Jimi take over" 👏👏 Epic mate, just epic.

  • @mario6759
    @mario6759 Рік тому

    I bought a squire strat in 1985. He ain’t kidding. Will never get rid of that guitar. it’s that good.

  • @2beJT
    @2beJT 4 роки тому +3

    One thing I love about Ron and many other guitar professionals.. They don't pretend that every competing item is trash compared to their product. They come off as genuine instead of seeming like a cheesy sales rep. JHS pedals does a great job of this. The guy actually highlights Behringer pedals in a complimentary fashion which made me discover his channel. Which made me like the guy and his company. Which made me want to buy the JHS Muffuleta.
    Seeing Fender (or whichever company) experts giving a truthful and fair opinion about products is what makes me tune in. If it were just a sales pitch I don't think I'd watch the content.

  • @skittlevevo1558
    @skittlevevo1558 4 роки тому +10

    9:06 bruh he got us

  • @rb032682
    @rb032682 4 роки тому

    Great interview!

  • @davidurias6778
    @davidurias6778 4 роки тому +1

    I can listen to Ron talk guitars all day

  • @LeonardoLaraMusic
    @LeonardoLaraMusic 4 роки тому +3

    check 03:05
    , he is talking about squier, the new ones, I watched the video when he plays the new squiers and he was amazed with the sound of the affinity and contemporary.
    So everyone should buy an Affinity at least.

  • @alanwingate7508
    @alanwingate7508 4 роки тому +4

    I am Amazed that Ron Said that his number one guitar from his collection is his 1985 Squier .Wow I have the 1984 Squier with the Bullet truss rod in black with a Maple neck I will never sell this guitar its in mint condition

    • @robertkidd6270
      @robertkidd6270 3 роки тому

      I'm laughing here😂 I've got a silver series black strat maple neck ...it's epic! and it stays in tune jeff beck style...my fiancé's son thinks he's keeping it on loan lol...gave him my '70 tele blonde and he begged me for the Squire. ..kids these days lol

  • @youpeopl_music3220
    @youpeopl_music3220 4 роки тому

    Really good questions! Cheers!

  • @scottgentile1663
    @scottgentile1663 2 роки тому

    He is a perfect spokesperson for Fender. Knows how to tastefully handle all kinds of questions. I have a 79 Strat, 2022 Gibson SG and a Squire Bullet that I love after a Luthier shaved down the frets.. Love all three.

  • @9eyeh8chu9
    @9eyeh8chu9 Рік тому +4

    you know what’s crazy is that Leo Fender apparently hated when things got old and worn looking. That was the total reason for going with rosewood fingerboards as opposed to maple which showed marks after a while. Now “worn” is Fenders most pleasing aesthetic feature. Just bizarre

    • @madhatter8508
      @madhatter8508 Рік тому

      It hasn't been Leo's company for a very long time. He had at least two companies after Fender.

    • @try2bcool
      @try2bcool Рік тому

      I got a rosewood instead of a maple fretboard for exactly this reason. They only look good if you don't play them.

  • @isaacwilliams9919
    @isaacwilliams9919 4 роки тому +98

    Plot twist: He specializes in Basses

  • @rowbags3017
    @rowbags3017 Рік тому

    I love watching Ron on video - his honest enthusiasm always shines through, and the way he says his #1 is a Squire! (He doesn't simply plug high-end Fenders.) I can't help but laugh when he admits the nearest thing he owns to a Gibson is a korina 'V which he built himself - if only we could all do that... I definitely agree about Eric Gales! Simply phenomenal!

  • @FalloutMan493
    @FalloutMan493 4 роки тому +3

    I was thinking Eric gales right when the guy asked about the "new" hendrix. That's so cool he gets the respect he deserves

  • @danielemilazzo432
    @danielemilazzo432 4 роки тому +19

    hand wound by Josefina. Mexico for the Win!

    • @enkiea8322
      @enkiea8322 4 роки тому +3

      Well... the sun shines on a dog's ass every once and a while.

    • @Nightshade1881
      @Nightshade1881 4 роки тому +2

      Daniele Milazzo tadeo Gomez is legendary
      He shaped those early necks Sooo beautifully

    • @speckleddaddy
      @speckleddaddy 4 роки тому +4

      @@enkiea8322 sun shines on dog's asses all over the entire planet fucko

    • @danielemilazzo432
      @danielemilazzo432 4 роки тому

      Enki Ea maybe it’s lost in translation. I don’t get it.

  • @GregAliano
    @GregAliano Рік тому +13

    I’ll never understand the divide between these two guitar companies. I use Mac & PC. I also use Gibson & Fender. Never limit yourself because of brand loyalty.

    • @donjuanmckenzie4897
      @donjuanmckenzie4897 Рік тому

      They have radically different feel and tone. Usually, you like one over the other

    • @billyboy1872
      @billyboy1872 Рік тому +2

      I have a 96 Strat and 96 Les Paul. They are both amazing guitars. I love the tone of them equally but I prefer the feel of the Les Paul neck. It just suits my hands perfectly.

    • @eezz7822
      @eezz7822 Рік тому

      Idk they are completely different guitars... Hense the divide..

  • @BillMcGirr
    @BillMcGirr 4 роки тому +1

    Cool video... enjoyed the conversation.👍

  • @chriss2452
    @chriss2452 9 місяців тому

    What a genuinely nice guy!

  • @APGRFX
    @APGRFX 4 роки тому +5

    ‘it looks like an Olympic white finish’ Guy in post: Oops, shouldn’t have boosted that red channel in color correction

  • @0Imtheslime0
    @0Imtheslime0 4 роки тому +5

    Wish i could work in Fender.. I love working on guitars, i used to work in a instrument store when i was 17 in 1998. There i learned to set up guitar, fret dressing, create a new nut, tremolo setup and other minor things. Would love to become a more apprentice luthier.
    Fender is life.. Fender factory is family where all workers are seen as artists and can have a good career opportunity.... Gibson on the other hand...

  • @MrJacobrezac
    @MrJacobrezac 4 роки тому

    When I get my custom shop I’m making sure I have Ron as the master builder, this guy is amazing and such a humble guy who doesn’t feed you any bullshit.

  • @mhmoretti
    @mhmoretti Рік тому +1

    I love my Thorn R/S. Best guitar in my collection.

  • @Quicksilver_Cookie
    @Quicksilver_Cookie 4 роки тому +14

    He was polite, professional. Didn't mention that Gibson haven't learned how to design a headstock and a volute in 60 years, and still charge something like 2+ grand for their flagship model. We'll let it slide.

    • @Vichedges
      @Vichedges 4 роки тому +7

      A lot of Gibsons have volutes, I have a 2013 EB bass that has a volute. The LP doesn't have a volute because the customers didn't want a volute on their LP because the originals didn't have a volute. Gibson did put volutes on LP for years, I had a 78 Deluxe with a volute, players didn't want the volutes.
      Gibson charges 2 grand for their "flagship" model? Fender charges close to that for a plank of wood with a bolt on neck lol. I guess you haven't noticed American labor is expensive?
      I mean I just looked and Fender is charging $900 for MEXICAN Strats lol. But you guys are going to act like Gibsons are outrageous?
      The cheapest new USA Strat on Guitar Center's site was $1,050. The Cheapest USA Les paul is the DC Junior which starts out at $900 and the LP Tributes which start out at $1,200.
      So....why is it that you don't call out Fender for it's over 1K USA models but you do Gibson for their USA models which start out well under 1K?
      I'll let it slide.

    • @abcrx32j
      @abcrx32j 4 роки тому +1

      And they still suck at making Les Pauls with better access than a classical guitar

    • @themerchantofmenace3645
      @themerchantofmenace3645 4 роки тому +3

      When were you shopping for a Les Paul? 2030? A standard is the flagship, and it's the same price as a proper USA Strat. Gibbo actually make cheaper USA guitars than Fender do with their Studio range - all the sound, none of the cosmetic stuff, SOOOOO sort of like all Fender guitars, where your lot is a piece of wood and a paint job! Not a criticism, I have a couple of Fenders and love them - let's just be real, they're all expensive, but none to the point of excess - unless you want it.

    • @Wargasm644
      @Wargasm644 4 роки тому

      2+ grand for there flagship model? Try 2+2+ 😂

  • @SsWargazmSs
    @SsWargazmSs 4 роки тому +36

    Different strokes I guess. It's the sound of the neck pickup that made me buy a Les Paul. Lol

    • @stedyshredy2772
      @stedyshredy2772 4 роки тому +4

      I play Blue Jean Blues on the neck, it drops panties every time. Every time. I gotta start wearing briefs...

    • @diego2112gaming
      @diego2112gaming 4 роки тому +2

      I'm with Ron. Give me a Strat, or some other single coil, where the neck pickup gets that nice, hollow, airy sound when you put *just* the right amount of 'verb on it. You're suddenly in a whole new dimension of playing (Dimension C will really open up the sound, as well), really get some neat tones. Try a '66 Vox Bulldog in the neck. Nothing out there even comes close to what it can do in that regard. It's just bleeding great.

    • @ikigai47
      @ikigai47 4 роки тому +1

      @@diego2112gaming - Agree. Comparing a strat neck pup to a humbucker neck pup, just no comparison. One has soul, the other sounds like a bridge humbucker with a blanket thrown over it

    • @kirarittberg5088
      @kirarittberg5088 4 роки тому +2

      Chaplin If that is your opinion of humbucker pickups , you possibly have not listened to really nice paf types. Listen to a BK stormy Monday and get back to me. Also my favourite single coil pups I have were made by Fury guitars and Evans, both Canadian made and pretty hard to find.

    • @ikigai47
      @ikigai47 4 роки тому

      @@kirarittberg5088 - Be honest. Have you tried Dimarzio Area pickups? (area 58 and/or area 67). It's fine if you haven't. I previously went on a pickup quest and tried soooo many (haven't tried Fury's/Evans), and for me nothing comes close for neck/mid single coil style. If you have tried them, and still prefer Fury or Evans, then looks like I'll have to check em out. Yeah I'd have to imagine there's a neck humbucker out there I'd like but I've tried many and never fell in love like a single coil neck

  • @destavaiwira9997
    @destavaiwira9997 4 роки тому +2

    I love his voice and accent. And he always smiling. Nice guy

    • @koushiro86
      @koushiro86 2 роки тому

      He’s been an LA guy since he was 10. I had to look it up to make sure but being from California myself, I could tell

  • @benediktschlereth6070
    @benediktschlereth6070 4 роки тому +1

    Love it!

  • @brotherscott8599
    @brotherscott8599 4 роки тому +6

    Reading between the lines when given the Gibson; “Thanks, but no thanks”

    • @stedyshredy2772
      @stedyshredy2772 4 роки тому

      I play a Gold top. The only thing i agree with is having to almost relearn how to play higher than about the 14th fret. Where the neck and body meet is extremely fat. That's the beauty of art, there is no right or wrong, better or worse. Just opinions, he was humble none the less!

    • @Vichedges
      @Vichedges 4 роки тому

      Nah, reading between the lines I got "my paycheck comes from Fender".
      It's probably just a coincidence that all the brands he says he owns are Fender products.

  • @bradhargis2261
    @bradhargis2261 4 роки тому +13

    Skip ahead to 8:30.

  • @mattharrington5218
    @mattharrington5218 Рік тому

    Such a good guy. Respectful

  • @mattharrington5218
    @mattharrington5218 Рік тому +1

    So good to hear they’re selling guitars at mass.

  • @SimonLarkin-CSRecording
    @SimonLarkin-CSRecording 4 роки тому +15

    I really got the feeling he was struggling to justify spending the money on his masterbuilds.

  • @ejoey64
    @ejoey64 4 роки тому +143

    His no1 are Squire?? Custom shop please start making them now!! Lol

    • @yargnad
      @yargnad 4 роки тому +7

      My #1 is a 90 Squier II Strat. Almost the cheapest guitar I own.

    • @ejoey64
      @ejoey64 4 роки тому +2

      @@yargnad i came across 83 Squire strat back then..but my #1 still from those pre cbs era strat

    • @yargnad
      @yargnad 4 роки тому +9

      @@ejoey64 Even if I had the $20,000+ for a pre-CBS Strat I would opt to buy something else. I recently played a couple in the $25- 40,000 range at the last Orlando guitar show. I'll pass, thanks.
      PS: That's where and when I bought the MIK 1990 Squier II of legend. It simply played better and only set me back $120.

    • @ejoey64
      @ejoey64 4 роки тому

      @@yargnadfollow the vintage trails man..if you're not lazy enough. I owned a few pre cbs fender not even reach 3000 usd. I had one late 65 strat the first owner give it to me for free..do you think the guitars show got them for 20k and sell it later for 20k? No way man..it's their trade secret as some peoples say..

    • @yargnad
      @yargnad 4 роки тому +2

      @@ejoey64 There are only a limited number of them to begin with which makes them even more rare now. They are obviously far more common out West than they are in the Southeast, where I live. Plus, like I said, I didn't like them playability-wise.

  • @edisongabutero9455
    @edisongabutero9455 4 роки тому

    Such a cool genuine dude

  • @christianjforbes
    @christianjforbes 4 роки тому

    I also have as my no1 a 1985 MIJ Squire Strat that I bought in 1987 ... Played it ever since.

  • @kurdtcocaine0
    @kurdtcocaine0 4 роки тому +19

    Quel “ciao” alla fine lol

    • @rashthelife2221
      @rashthelife2221 4 роки тому +1

      Infatti a me sembrava italiano l'intervistatore 🇮🇹🤙🏻

    • @coat.thik1
      @coat.thik1 4 роки тому +1

      Ahahahah ciao belli 🇮🇹

    • @gorftz2863
      @gorftz2863 4 роки тому

      Stavo cercando il commento italiano infatti 😂

  • @gabrielsierra865
    @gabrielsierra865 4 роки тому +4

    "At the blacksmith's home, wooden knives", this is my closest translation of this time proven Puerto Rican proverb.

    • @Not.The_Gallery
      @Not.The_Gallery 4 роки тому

      It would actually be “At cutler’s house, wooden knifes.” (En casa de herrero, cuchillo de palo.)

    • @BOFFKA86
      @BOFFKA86 4 роки тому

      In Russia we got similar proverb - "Bootmaker without boots")

    • @gabrielsierra865
      @gabrielsierra865 4 роки тому

      @@Not.The_Gallery IN our Spanish version is Herrero=Blacksmith. So now I know the English equivalent, thanks!

  • @craigpoole2602
    @craigpoole2602 Рік тому

    I'm a Strat guy and have been forever....that said there really is something magical about a great Les Paul that a Strat can't duplicate.

  • @arsenmarek597
    @arsenmarek597 Рік тому

    He really looks like a great guy, passionate and willing to share his kwnoledge.

  • @crystaloffrost
    @crystaloffrost 4 роки тому +23

    Nothing sounds like this.. yeah

  • @TheSteveSteele
    @TheSteveSteele 4 роки тому +5

    And he put it down for a Tele, right? Just kidding. I have an amazing ‘79 LP Custom that plays and sounds incredible, (especially considering that year model), and I love my Strat too, but a good Tele never fights you. And a Tele can be configured for any style of music. Leo really got it right the first time, IMO.

    • @Vichedges
      @Vichedges 4 роки тому

      Yeah and Strat lovers will tell you that he got it right with the Strat. I just watched a documentary on the Strat's creation and it basically came from people complaining about the Tele and Leo (and company) designing/building a model to fix those issues.
      I prefer Telecasters over Strats too, but it's all opinion.

  • @joneses1962
    @joneses1962 Рік тому

    My number one is also a '85 MIJ Squire Stratocaster. I don't know how many guitars I've owned, but I've been a stratocaster fanatic since I got my first one in 1980. I got my '85 Squire in '93. I love my Squire. For nearly 30 years my Squire has been the one guitar that I truly love to play.

  • @goldenape1373
    @goldenape1373 4 роки тому

    That’s a huge acknowledgement for Eric Gales. The dude is a bonafide beast but wow to hear that, wow.

  • @guysmalley
    @guysmalley 4 роки тому +6

    Silly question to ask him about another company’s guitar, he would never pan the competition sorta like don’t throw rocks in glass houses.