WOW hard to believe, I wouldn't of said, but I prefer the standard model. It has more chime, more twang and sounds brighter. That's my preference. Thanks
So many people judge the sound of a guitar by what it sounds like on its own. But, unless you plan to just sit around and play by yourself and never with others or never record songs, then what really matters is how it sits in a mix. The lighter sound of the standard would most likely fit better into most mixes, IMO. And honestly I LOVE the slightly rattly 'clean but dirty' sound of the standard, and presumably its Alnico pickups. Pair up one of those with a Vox AC15C1 and you could "Little Wing" all day long and never get tired of it.
Carlo De Vivo I was surprised to prefer the standard overall. I liked the Standard for the neck pickup, a tie for the middle pu, and preferred the Deluxe for the bridge pu.
I see your point but to me, the deluxe is more strat sounding, the reason you appreciate the standard is the reason you should try the tele. It would blow the standard away in chime. That's why I'm not gone on the standard, seems like a halfway house between strat and tele
Yep, i would say the Standard definately sounded a bit thinner, I changed my pickups out for 2 pig iron and 1 texas loco, made a good guitar sound great. I love my Standard!
@@soozikins I did the same. I had my guitar tech replace all of the electronics, pods, pickups etc. I have Seymour Duncans in my HSS Standard. It sounds great and plays better than my MIM Fender. I'm a tinkerer by nature and prefer buying the shell (body + neck) and then making my own upgrades instead of settling for Fender's standard parts at a higher price. Just like buying a Mustang GT and upgrading it into a Cobra.
alwaysrockn2009 just bought the delux yesterday because of the Duncan pick-ups and the pearl white color.. now I just need lessons...I figured if I like the guitar I would practice more...:)
That being said. The standard sounded better with that example. The right amount of "cluck" without sounding generic. The deluxe doesn't quite have that
Yes, I had bought the standard 3 years ago. No regrets. I change the strings every 6 months and it sounds brand new again. Bought my first pedal last month. It has completely blown my mind how much potential my guitar has.
If you want to hear an Affinity Strat, starter pack Squier, and Classic Vibe Strat you can check out the video "Cheap Stratocaster Comparison" here: ua-cam.com/video/0eVV7Bou104/v-deo.html Enjoy :)
I love the deluxe but I'm not a big fan of the pickups... Way too fuzzy and distorted, they just sound muffled and odd. Much rather have the clean sound of the standard pickups. Too bad they don't have the really smooth neck and daphne blue for the standard strats.
I dont know what to buy. A friend of mine have the deluxe model and is a impressive guitar. The standart model is also good, but after all presented in this video i guess the deluxe model is really a better deal. Sounds like fender, legit. Hugs from Brazil, and thank you very much for share this video.
Both are quite acceptable Strat sounds. The slightly more brittle tone of the standard might cut a little better in a full band situation, but most people in the audience would never notice a difference even if you played them both during the same gig. The funky red/tortoise color combo of the standard looked a bit weird to me at first, but grew on me by the end of the video. Nice subtle blue on the deluxe.
To me standard sounds amazing especially that layla opening riff sounded amazing on standard standard is more of my style.... Great review Darrell awsome playing
Great comparison. I was almost sold on the Deluxe pickups but after hearing the standard Anicos, I have to say that they are much brighter and have a tone closer to the original Fender Strats. The deluxe has a less bright and softer sound that I can emulate with my humbuckers on my Westone Spectrum. The standard wins IMHO.
Had my standard for 4 years now and I still love it! I go for that SRV sound and the standard has the hot, clear pickups. They also have that mid-range bite that makes the SRV sound.
I got my Squier standard and im loving it! So confortable. Just going to add a cheap mini humbucker on the neck position for the fingerpicking solo stuff. Thank's for the demo!
Darrell , your videos follow a really proffesional approach . One of the best reviewers on UA-cam . Excellent man . This is what people want . Honest , and straightforward - no bullshit videos.
Thanks for the video. I went for Standard, since I wanted something that's really bright and twangy, that was the missing color in my pallette of guitar sounds. In my opinion, Deluxe's pickups feel more controllable and versatile, but have a less definitive Strat sound.
The Standard it is. I was leaning that way and now I’m convinced. Thanks. Very well produced professional videos. Keep doing that voodoo that you do...
I picked up a used Standard with a maple neck and absolutely love it. it was a bit bright admittedly, but after changing the capacitor and installing a brass tone block it has a much nicer balanced tone. I really dig the 70's headstock too! it's a great platform for upgrades and modding. One thing to note, it's REALLY heavy!
I'm votting for the brighness of Standard. Dаrker and fatter sound of Deluxe is pleasurable too, but definetely is 'not everybody's cup of tea'. Thanks for the great video.
I love the features of the neck on the Deluxe.... thought I would like the Duncan Designed as well, but prefer the Standard for more vintage strat tones. I read that the brightness of the Standard can be remedied a bit by installing all 250k pots and a .047 cap.
From my understanding, most do, although some forums have people reporting otherwise. I think most come with dime size 500k pots. Lots of people with these pots experience tinny highs or too much treble, so they throw 250k full size pots and a .047 cap to alleviate this. I wish I could find a video with someone demonstrating the before and after. It's hard to find a decent video on the Standard with glassy cleans for blues playing.
Darrell Braun Guitar I wanted to come back to you and say, I absolutely love this guitar! It had some cosmetic flaws but other then that. It plays great and it sounds good. Though I role of almost all the highs on my amp. Thanks for the review. It helped me a lot, and I wasn’t disappointed.
I just bought a used Squier Standard body + neck (no pickups) as a platform to mod, and have to say the guitar is fantastic. This is my first Squier. I have 3 USA and an MIM Strat and never thought about buying a Squier. But I’m blown away at the quality, feel and finish of the neck. The body is same shape and contour as the USA bodies and very nicely finished as well. I can’t wait to hear it wired up! Now I’m really curious about the Squiers. They’re an excellent value. This video was really helpful in understanding the difference between the Standard and Deluxe. Thank you, as always, for a really thoughtful comparison.
Can def tell the Deluxe has much fuller sounding pups. I just got my Dlx Hot Rails, & I know what you mean as far as the Dlx neck. It feels incredibly baby smooth, you'd swear it was unfinished, but it is supposed to be a polyurethane finish per the specs. I love the neck feel personally. Great comparison vid btw.
Killer video as per usual. If Fender/Squier would be so kind as to loan you one of the new Classic Vibe 70’s Strats, I’d like to hear one of those up against either the Fender Mexican Standard or Squier Deluxe.
the standard looks nice too. I was considering the deluxe a while back but fell into a crazy deal for a standard MIM recently that I couldn't pass up. check this out, pretty sure you mentioned you're in Canada, so check your Best Buy stores: facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1645570392436286.1073741834.1603328999993759&type=1&l=705b276754
got a used Hot Rails "Deluxe" for $150 - web site noted the pickups are labeled and often in wrong loc'n - looked inside and mine had 2 labelled "Middle" [ & "Bridge" mounted between them ] moved "bridge" to proper bridge loc'n mainly to get a tone control @ bridge - NICE ! ! - fiddled with pickup height and "slope" and WOW - by giving bridge loc'n a higher LOW E side and the middle a higher HIGH E side it actually gave that familiar Fender "Quack" tone in pos'n 2... from humbuckers ! ! - it also gave a thicker bridge tone like David Gilmour + tone adj - obv the 5 way has pos'n 1 & 3 reversed cuz i didn't rewire it... just moved the pickups around on the guard - obv the bridge is now paired with the neck in pos'n 4 and still paired with the middle in pos'n 2 - all sound great.. inc the middle run "direct" with no tone control - I even tried turning the neck pickup 180 degrees and it sounded awful whether in combo or alone but putting neck back to stock got good tones again anyway... I got my Lado Hawk SSS switched to 3 real Seymour Duncan Hot Rails - got middle tone control re-wired to Bridge - added a coil tap to bridge - not sure if i prefer the mixed up Squier re-location better but it's EASY to do + undo - maybe move middle to bridge on your SSS and see what it sounds like - Hot Rails deserve a coil tap or 2... - got new respect for SSS wiring which keeps the angled bridge tone of Strats + Tele's AND gives humbucker tones too... [ beats Fender Mex "Blacktops"... HH + 5 way for coil taps } - I got the Lado with an added Mini toggle that combined Bridge In Phase with every other pos'n of the 5 way... PROFOUND MOD for SSS... a "Swiss Army Strat" pos'n 2 gets added Bridge In Phase - Pos'n 3 gets In Phase combo like Tele - pos'n 4 has all 3 pickups in a S+H Ibanez tone - pos'n 5 gives another Tele tone - obv you can make some of these connections as Humbuckers too = 4-5 extra tones from ONE toggle - bottom line IMHO... never buy a HH or HSS layout - the angled bridge is priceless ! !
Great vid, the best and really only way to compare two guitars. I've saw one other like yours comparing Slash humbuckers to Pearly Gates. Subscribed and thank you. (Strat freak since 1957)
One simply cannot lose by purchasing either guitar. Feel lucky to own the Standard in spite of gravitating toward the sound of the Deluxe. Listening to these well played riffs has me reminiscing about the day I took my baby home.
I'm playing a deluxe myself and I have to say: best buy of my life so far :D - I like the, uhm, how can I say ... twang-y(?) and warm sound of the neck-pickup :)
Awesome video...but then I appreciate all of Darrell's videos and it's why I subscribe to the channel. I'm new to playing and didn't want to spend a lot of money on a guitar but then again didn't want to throw away money on a cheap beginner's guitar. Based on the video I bought a Standard from Amazon Warehouse Deals for about $160 because it had "cosmetic damage". Turned out the damage was the clear plastic pickguard film had scratches in it..removed the film to uncover a perfect pickguard/guitar. Didn't even need to be set up, just tuned. What a find. Love the smooth neck action. Love the antique burst color too. So then I decided to buy the Deluxe in Olympic White with a rosewood neck because I also liked the sound of the DD Hot Rails. So it's not exactly the guitar Darrell played but I was intrigued none the less. I really like the fatter sound the Hot Rails produce. I'm into Clapton Blues. And yes, the neck seems just a touch easier to play than the Standard, but that's noticeable because I'll play them both within a short timeframe. Otherwise the Standard neck is fine, especially for a newbie like me. Could be natural production variation as both necks seem to have the same satin finish. Both are made in Indonesia and the quality/finish is great. Paint finish is fine, no dust. No sharp fret edges. Really nice craftsmanship for the $. I've read the Bullet and Affinity models made in China have had quality issues. Not sure if that's true, but I recommend stepping up to the Standard if you're going to jump in as the additional cost is not that big. I play them using a Fender Champion 100 SS amp mostly using the clean channel. Tube amp in the future?? Who knows...but the Champion is great for me. I also play my Yamaha FGX800C through it. I'm glad I bought Squires based on Darrell's review. Looking forward to hearing how they sound when I change the strings to EB Yellow Slinkies. Thanks again Darrell for your channel. It's a big help and entertaining as well. Also thanks for the others who are posting here..I'm learning from all of you as well.
As of 2018 the Squire Standard sells for $249 and the Deluxe $299 new. The Standard features an Indian Laurel fret board with a large headstock and the Deluxe is all maple with the smaller headstock. If you're intending on upgrading 1 or more of the pickups, then either would be fine. Both made in Indonesia and the fit/finish and playability is reputed to be quite high .
I bought a Classic Vibe Squier 50's over a Fenders Strat MIM. I tested both out for a very long time and I ended up linkng the tone on the Squier a lot better. It comes with alnico III pickups and it sounds absolutely amazing.
Yeh, I did the same. I had my heart set on a A Amex Std but ended up going for the CV50 at the last minute. Those Alnico 3s are sweet, and I don't regret a thing!
I bought my first ever strat today, i've had both fenders and squires before but have always tiptoed away from the Stratocasters, even though i knew they were incredibly verstatile the look of them always put me off. However today i relented after much pressure and invested in a Squire Standard Stratocaster. Whilst in the shop i actually played around with the Infinity, Standard and Deluxe. (Left handed so not a lot of choice) Between the Deluxe and the Standard it was a hard call, i'd say the Standard sounds closer to the older strats and the Deluxe is more a modern take. Either way i am really enjoying the guitar so far and who knows it might tempt me to get a Deluxe one day.
I think this video shows your ability to play more than anything.. The classic vibe models are amazing for the price point but I have been underwhelmed with the others. I admit you make them sound amazing in the vid. Love your channel.
Excellent! I've just purchased a standard with maple fret board from Kraft Music @ $199 delivered. Thanks, Darrell. I'll experiment with string gauges to enhance the warmth. I found less distortion in the standard. That's what won my vote.
the deluxe is so smooth and polite.. however the standard has that harsh bright sound.. harsh in a good way for me!! i believe Pick the deluxe and replace the pickups will give you better sound
The standard makes a better project guitar. Paid 250 for mine. Put about 300 more in it. Pots, caps, pickups, Jack, roller saddles, graphtech earvana nut, and an extra trem spring. For 550 bucks I have a guitar that shits on a Mexican strat and goes toe to toe with an American deluxe in sound and playablity.
I just did similarly. I went to look at some Deluxe and Vintage Vibes, but the Affinity at this store blew the others away. From the selection of guitars available to me, this Affinity (2016 from Indonesia) was so much nicer than the Deluxe, Vintage, Bullet, etc. at this store. The actions and neck were nearly perfect at the store, two minutes at home I had it perfect for me. I immediately ordered some Seymour Duncans, pots, etc. I am upgrading everything except for the bridge. I don't use tremolo bars, and the block saddles on it are nice. I was going to replace them with Roller Saddles but after reading some say that they didn;t like them and they lessen the tone quality some w/ the moving parts and them not holding up long etc. This caused me to think twice, so I opted to leave the saddles stock for now. How has your experience with them been?
I’ve modified Squire Bullets that compete with top end fenders. Every guitar has a slightly different tone, and with so many different pickups and mods available I’ve gotten better tone out of 4 piece basswood bodies than whole alder.
I enjoy the Standard's chiminess and sparkle. The Deluxe to me sounds too compressed. I believe the basswood absorbs the top end on the Deluxe. Agathis is a marvelous tonewood imho.
I finally got my Standard Deluxe Strat QMT back from the shop, it is basically a standard strat with a quilted maple top and pearl pickguard. The alnicos paired with 250k pots and .047 and a bone nut really helped. Not to mention the refret, now the notes really ring out. Big difference with the Squier Deluxe Hot Rails, although those are a different monster being dual rail humbuckers basically.
Hey quick question, which amp are you using in this video? Gave the 2 and 4 positions a nice bit of quack! Or are your treble setting different for those positions??
I''m new to playing a stratocaster guitar. I have never played a guitar with the volume knob so close to the strings. I place my right hand over the saddles on the bridge so I can mute or not. My problem is that I keep rolling off the volume knob when I strum and play. I usually have my pinky finger very close or on the edge of the volume knob. Can you show a video of proper right hand placement to play the strat. I usually play a les Paul. Knobs are not near the playing area. Thank you for your help and your cheerful presentations. You cover practical stuff and don't just go along with what "everyone" else says. Risk taker! Yay!
Love my Squier Deluxe. As I don't use the whammy much, just for fun I put three new springs in (1 straight, 2 angled )and locked the trem to the body . The difference in tone and sustain was amazing so I'll keep it this way for a while. You get plenty of bang for your buck with Squiers and I wouldn't have the guts to fool around with a Custom Shop!!!
I bought a Squier Deluxe from 07 and I honestly I was gonna try to just sell it off cheap to get something newer, but after watching some of these videos, I'm def gonna keep it. I'm usually a bassist and just hadn't given this guitar a chance yet.
Another great video Darrell! You are by far the best comparison site on youtube.
Thanks so much Stan!
I wonder about sound difference between Squire deluxe and Yamaha Pacifica 112V.
WOW hard to believe, I wouldn't of said, but I prefer the standard model. It has more chime, more twang and sounds brighter. That's my preference. Thanks
+Carlo De Vivo Glad you enjoyed the comparison!
So many people judge the sound of a guitar by what it sounds like on its own. But, unless you plan to just sit around and play by yourself and never with others or never record songs, then what really matters is how it sits in a mix. The lighter sound of the standard would most likely fit better into most mixes, IMO.
And honestly I LOVE the slightly rattly 'clean but dirty' sound of the standard, and presumably its Alnico pickups. Pair up one of those with a Vox AC15C1 and you could "Little Wing" all day long and never get tired of it.
Carlo De Vivo I was surprised to prefer the standard overall.
I liked the Standard for the neck pickup, a tie for the middle pu, and preferred the Deluxe for the bridge pu.
I see your point but to me, the deluxe is more strat sounding, the reason you appreciate the standard is the reason you should try the tele. It would blow the standard away in chime. That's why I'm not gone on the standard, seems like a halfway house between strat and tele
that's how it sounded to me
The Standard is more brighter than the deluxe.
According to the way i play, i like the Standard.
deluxe has a much richer tone imo
Yep, i would say the Standard definately sounded a bit thinner, I changed my pickups out for 2 pig iron and 1 texas loco, made a good guitar sound great. I love my Standard!
@@soozikins I did the same. I had my guitar tech replace all of the electronics, pods, pickups etc. I have Seymour Duncans in my HSS Standard. It sounds great and plays better than my MIM Fender. I'm a tinkerer by nature and prefer buying the shell (body + neck) and then making my own upgrades instead of settling for Fender's standard parts at a higher price. Just like buying a Mustang GT and upgrading it into a Cobra.
Best comparison video I've seen.
+alwaysrockn2009 Thanks! Glad you liked the video 👍
alwaysrockn2009 just bought the delux yesterday because of the Duncan pick-ups and the pearl white color.. now I just need lessons...I figured if I like the guitar I would practice more...:)
Do you offer lessons for beginners? I love the smoothness of your playing.
+rbrea68 Thanks! I have tutorials on the channel for various levels of playing :)
Yellow ledbetter was a perfect strat demo song. Much praise
That being said. The standard sounded better with that example. The right amount of "cluck" without sounding generic. The deluxe doesn't quite have that
Yes, I had bought the standard 3 years ago. No regrets. I change the strings every 6 months and it sounds brand new again. Bought my first pedal last month. It has completely blown my mind how much potential my guitar has.
If you want to hear an Affinity Strat, starter pack Squier, and Classic Vibe Strat you can check out the video "Cheap Stratocaster Comparison" here:
ua-cam.com/video/0eVV7Bou104/v-deo.html
Enjoy :)
I have a vintage modified 60s vibe with tubular pickups
Does that sound right
It's also in sonic blue
+Lucas Bishop Nice! That's a good instrument too!
Thanks it sound brilliant!
I love the deluxe but I'm not a big fan of the pickups... Way too fuzzy and distorted, they just sound muffled and odd. Much rather have the clean sound of the standard pickups. Too bad they don't have the really smooth neck and daphne blue for the standard strats.
This video helped me decide which one to buy. I got the Deluxe a month ago and Im in love with it! Greetings from Argentina :)
+Rama Sarc Hi Rama! Glad the video helped :)
Rama Sarc deluxe is very nice both playability & sound
Buena loco !! Jaja al fin un comentario de alguien que habla español! Que onda la viola, la recomendas?
Espero que la hayas podido comprar, porque los precios se fueron a la mierda este año
@@AgustinSutera ese comentario aplica a cualquier año en Argentina
I dont know what to buy. A friend of mine have the deluxe model and is a impressive guitar. The standart model is also good, but after all presented in this video i guess the deluxe model is really a better deal. Sounds like fender, legit. Hugs from Brazil, and thank you very much for share this video.
Both are quite acceptable Strat sounds. The slightly more brittle tone of the standard might cut a little better in a full band situation, but most people in the audience would never notice a difference even if you played them both during the same gig.
The funky red/tortoise color combo of the standard looked a bit weird to me at first, but grew on me by the end of the video. Nice subtle blue on the deluxe.
I suspect that the reason for the Standard having that brittle tone quality is due to its use of 500K pots.
Russell Wiggins you would be right sir ✌️️
I never cared for it either til Daryl did the Std Jeff Beck floating trem and then I was hooked....now you can't find them cheap.
To me standard sounds amazing especially that layla opening riff sounded amazing on standard standard is more of my style.... Great review Darrell awsome playing
Back-to-back demos are SO useful without interruptions with comments, opinions etc. Superbly put together demo. Thanks.
Great comparison. I was almost sold on the Deluxe pickups but after hearing the standard Anicos, I have to say that they are much brighter and have a tone closer to the original Fender Strats. The deluxe has a less bright and softer sound that I can emulate with my humbuckers on my Westone Spectrum. The standard wins IMHO.
Deluxe sounds way better to my ears.
Mine too
Try an American and be blown away.
@Darin Martin me or my credit card?
Ultimately, it's just personal preference. :) I paid Cash for mine with no regrets. :P
Better pickups I think?
nice comparison but the deluxe Strat sounded congested to me.
The standard cut through the mix a lot better. As a broke Strat player, these videos are very interesting
5:06 best song ever
Had my standard for 4 years now and I still love it! I go for that SRV sound and the standard has the hot, clear pickups. They also have that mid-range bite that makes the SRV sound.
2021 speaking. Your self confidence improved a lot since them!
This video was excellent. Thank you very much. I just ordered a Squire Standard Strat and can't wait to get it!
+Steven Buyers Thanks!
Congrats on the new guitar :)
i prefer the standard but theyre both great guitars
For me, the deluxe have more shine in his tone and sound like stevie ray vaughan and that brings the authentic strat sound
Both sound great. Man, just for the looks I wish that deluxe had a rosewood fret board.
For me, deluxe is more smooth. But, I'd like to take the standard one. Good review !!
I got my Squier standard and im loving it! So confortable. Just going to add a cheap mini humbucker on the neck position for the fingerpicking solo stuff. Thank's for the demo!
Darrell , your videos follow a really proffesional approach . One of the best reviewers on UA-cam . Excellent man . This is what people want . Honest , and straightforward - no bullshit videos.
+George Efthymiades Thanks!
Glad you are enjoying the channel :)
I'm really digging the sound of those Duncan pickups
Thanks for the video. I went for Standard, since I wanted something that's really bright and twangy, that was the missing color in my pallette of guitar sounds. In my opinion, Deluxe's pickups feel more controllable and versatile, but have a less definitive Strat sound.
Im waiting for my squire deluxe l bought it last monday on internet, great video!
+Jose Ciller Nice! Congratulations 🎸😍🤘
Darrell Braun Guitar Thank you!! 👌🎸😄
I'm thinking on buying a deluxe as well. Can you tell me how it feels after some time of playing? Is there a lot of hum?
The Standard it is. I was leaning that way and now I’m convinced. Thanks. Very well produced professional videos. Keep doing that voodoo that you do...
+Don Hunnicutt Thanks Don!
These are great demos because the differences are so SUBJECTIVE leaving the only "mystery" being the way if Feels and Plays.
+cuda426hemi 👍
both guitars have their own unique sounds ..
Subscribed! Your comparison video is the best on UA-cam
+Saverio Mazzotta Thanks!
Welcome to the channel ☺
@6:54 that was so nuts! Awesome playing
I picked up a used Standard with a maple neck and absolutely love it. it was a bit bright admittedly, but after changing the capacitor and installing a brass tone block it has a much nicer balanced tone. I really dig the 70's headstock too! it's a great platform for upgrades and modding. One thing to note, it's REALLY heavy!
I'm votting for the brighness of Standard. Dаrker and fatter sound of Deluxe is pleasurable too, but definetely is 'not everybody's cup of tea'. Thanks for the great video.
+Максим Пузырев Glad you liked it :)
I love the features of the neck on the Deluxe.... thought I would like the Duncan Designed as well, but prefer the Standard for more vintage strat tones. I read that the brightness of the Standard can be remedied a bit by installing all 250k pots and a .047 cap.
+socialdef3 Does the standard have 500k pots?
From my understanding, most do, although some forums have people reporting otherwise. I think most come with dime size 500k pots. Lots of people with these pots experience tinny highs or too much treble, so they throw 250k full size pots and a .047 cap to alleviate this. I wish I could find a video with someone demonstrating the before and after. It's hard to find a decent video on the Standard with glassy cleans for blues playing.
+socialdef3 Hmmm, I'll have to pull the guard off on mine to check!
I really like the look of the red one!
Standard has a classic sound, deluxe is more "modern"
Bought a Cherry red standard. I'm awaiting it's arrival. Thanks for the video.
+Dhr Willemsen Nice!
I'm sure you'll love it :)
Darrell Braun Guitar
I wanted to come back to you and say,
I absolutely love this guitar! It had some cosmetic flaws but other then that. It plays great and it sounds good. Though I role of almost all the highs on my amp.
Thanks for the review. It helped me a lot, and I wasn’t disappointed.
I just bought a used Squier Standard body + neck (no pickups) as a platform to mod, and have to say the guitar is fantastic. This is my first Squier. I have 3 USA and an MIM Strat and never thought about buying a Squier. But I’m blown away at the quality, feel and finish of the neck. The body is same shape and contour as the USA bodies and very nicely finished as well. I can’t wait to hear it wired up! Now I’m really curious about the Squiers. They’re an excellent value. This video was really helpful in understanding the difference between the Standard and Deluxe. Thank you, as always, for a really thoughtful comparison.
Nice playing. Love that Jeff Beck sound at 6:57. Good review.
+Robert Evans Thanks :)
4:07 was not expecting you to play some Pink Floyd! Such an under rated song too
Can def tell the Deluxe has much fuller sounding pups. I just got my Dlx Hot Rails, & I know what you mean as far as the Dlx neck. It feels incredibly baby smooth, you'd swear it was unfinished, but it is supposed to be a polyurethane finish per the specs. I love the neck feel personally. Great comparison vid btw.
I own a Squier, this video really helped in explaining pickup position. Thanks.
Darrell,you are awesome dude. No holy than now attitude, or sarcasm. Good information,and I always learn something. Really enjoy your videos!!
Thanks a lot for taking the time to make this lovely video
+Stephen Boyle Absolutely, I'm glad you enjoyed it :)
You know..they both sound like Stratocasters!...Long live the STRAT!
I know it’s six years ago, but man that guitar solo would be something I’d pay for, great playing and demo.
i prefer the deluxe sound.
Amazing!
Killer video as per usual. If Fender/Squier would be so kind as to loan you one of the new Classic Vibe 70’s Strats, I’d like to hear one of those up against either the Fender Mexican Standard or Squier Deluxe.
great video and playing again! I preferred the standard tones for pretty much all of it
+lando27music Thanks! The standard is such a great guitar for the money :)
the standard looks nice too. I was considering the deluxe a while back but fell into a crazy deal for a standard MIM recently that I couldn't pass up. check this out, pretty sure you mentioned you're in Canada, so check your Best Buy stores: facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1645570392436286.1073741834.1603328999993759&type=1&l=705b276754
+lando27music I'll check it out :)
Great video, nice playing and comparison Darrelll, your comparisons are just exactly what i expect from a guitar comparison.
I subbed. Thanks for the comparison too! I'm gonna get the Standard even though the Deluxe is awesome too.
+The Kid Zombie Thanks for subscribing :)
i have the Standard as well. i did check out a deluxe before settling on the Standard.
Thanks a lot for this video, helped me to decide and buy the Squier Standard, should get it today! :) Very excited to start practicing :)
+Francisco Costa Congratulations on your new guitar! 🎸😎🤘
got a used Hot Rails "Deluxe" for $150 - web site noted the pickups are labeled and often in wrong loc'n - looked inside and mine had 2 labelled "Middle" [ & "Bridge" mounted between them ] moved "bridge" to proper bridge loc'n mainly to get a tone control @ bridge - NICE ! ! - fiddled with pickup height and "slope" and WOW - by giving bridge loc'n a higher LOW E side and the middle a higher HIGH E side it actually gave that familiar Fender "Quack" tone in pos'n 2... from humbuckers ! ! - it also gave a thicker bridge tone like David Gilmour + tone adj
- obv the 5 way has pos'n 1 & 3 reversed cuz i didn't rewire it... just moved the pickups around on the guard
- obv the bridge is now paired with the neck in pos'n 4 and still paired with the middle in pos'n 2 - all sound great.. inc the middle run "direct" with no tone control
- I even tried turning the neck pickup 180 degrees and it sounded awful whether in combo or alone but putting neck back to stock got good tones again
anyway... I got my Lado Hawk SSS switched to 3 real Seymour Duncan Hot Rails
- got middle tone control re-wired to Bridge
- added a coil tap to bridge
- not sure if i prefer the mixed up Squier re-location better but it's EASY to do + undo
- maybe move middle to bridge on your SSS and see what it sounds like
- Hot Rails deserve a coil tap or 2...
- got new respect for SSS wiring which keeps the angled bridge tone of Strats + Tele's AND gives humbucker tones too... [ beats Fender Mex "Blacktops"... HH + 5 way for coil taps }
- I got the Lado with an added Mini toggle that combined Bridge In Phase with every other pos'n of the 5 way... PROFOUND MOD for SSS... a "Swiss Army Strat"
pos'n 2 gets added Bridge In Phase - Pos'n 3 gets In Phase combo like Tele
- pos'n 4 has all 3 pickups in a S+H Ibanez tone - pos'n 5 gives another Tele tone
- obv you can make some of these connections as Humbuckers too = 4-5 extra tones from ONE toggle
- bottom line IMHO... never buy a HH or HSS layout - the angled bridge is priceless ! !
Nice demo Darrell and, I found myself in agreement with your conclusion!
+beachfrontman I'm glad you liked the comparison 👍
Great vid, the best and really only way to compare two guitars. I've saw one other like yours comparing Slash humbuckers to Pearly Gates. Subscribed and thank you. (Strat freak since 1957)
American standard vs Squier standard would be fun to watch. Great video!
+AlbertoVive Thanks!
I'll add it to my list :)
I got the deluxe and i'm so happy about it!
Thanks Darrell❤️
Congratulations!
I very rarely (never!) hear anyone play Another Kind Of Green on UA-cam.. that was a nice surprise !!!! 🤘😁
One simply cannot lose by purchasing either guitar. Feel lucky to own the Standard in spite of gravitating toward the sound of the Deluxe. Listening to these well played riffs has me reminiscing about the day I took my baby home.
That pearl jam stuff on the start was killing
the brightness of the standard is beautiful, that what i prefer.
you are finally getting good amount of suscribers man you are such a great guitarist keep whit the awesome work
+Omar Andre Jacinto Martell Thanks! I appreciate it :)
I'm playing a deluxe myself and I have to say: best buy of my life so far :D - I like the, uhm, how can I say ... twang-y(?) and warm sound of the neck-pickup :)
Just bought my girlfriend the deluxe for Christmas. For the price that sound is pretty damn good.
I got the standard and am in love, now if I could play hendrix without my fingers getting twisted into pretzels
Awesome video...but then I appreciate all of Darrell's videos and it's why I subscribe to the channel. I'm new to playing and didn't want to spend a lot of money on a guitar but then again didn't want to throw away money on a cheap beginner's guitar. Based on the video I bought a Standard from Amazon Warehouse Deals for about $160 because it had "cosmetic damage". Turned out the damage was the clear plastic pickguard film had scratches in it..removed the film to uncover a perfect pickguard/guitar. Didn't even need to be set up, just tuned. What a find. Love the smooth neck action. Love the antique burst color too.
So then I decided to buy the Deluxe in Olympic White with a rosewood neck because I also liked the sound of the DD Hot Rails. So it's not exactly the guitar Darrell played but I was intrigued none the less. I really like the fatter sound the Hot Rails produce. I'm into Clapton Blues. And yes, the neck seems just a touch easier to play than the Standard, but that's noticeable because I'll play them both within a short timeframe. Otherwise the Standard neck is fine, especially for a newbie like me. Could be natural production variation as both necks seem to have the same satin finish.
Both are made in Indonesia and the quality/finish is great. Paint finish is fine, no dust. No sharp fret edges. Really nice craftsmanship for the $. I've read the Bullet and Affinity models made in China have had quality issues. Not sure if that's true, but I recommend stepping up to the Standard if you're going to jump in as the additional cost is not that big.
I play them using a Fender Champion 100 SS amp mostly using the clean channel. Tube amp in the future?? Who knows...but the Champion is great for me. I also play my Yamaha FGX800C through it.
I'm glad I bought Squires based on Darrell's review. Looking forward to hearing how they sound when I change the strings to EB Yellow Slinkies. Thanks again Darrell for your channel. It's a big help and entertaining as well. Also thanks for the others who are posting here..I'm learning from all of you as well.
As of 2018 the Squire Standard sells for $249 and the Deluxe $299 new. The Standard features an Indian Laurel fret board with a large headstock and the Deluxe is all maple with the smaller headstock. If you're intending on upgrading 1 or more of the pickups, then either would be fine. Both made in Indonesia and the fit/finish and playability is reputed to be quite high .
I bought a Classic Vibe Squier 50's over a Fenders Strat MIM.
I tested both out for a very long time and I ended up linkng the tone on the Squier a lot better. It comes with alnico III pickups and it sounds absolutely amazing.
+Hacky Nice! Those are great guitars :)
Yeh, I did the same.
I had my heart set on a A Amex Std but ended up going for the CV50 at the last minute.
Those Alnico 3s are sweet, and I don't regret a thing!
I'm actually saving up for a CV tele myself. Really excited!
+Adam Rasheed Nice! They are quality instuments :)
I bought my first ever strat today, i've had both fenders and squires before but have always tiptoed away from the Stratocasters, even though i knew they were incredibly verstatile the look of them always put me off. However today i relented after much pressure and invested in a Squire Standard Stratocaster. Whilst in the shop i actually played around with the Infinity, Standard and Deluxe. (Left handed so not a lot of choice) Between the Deluxe and the Standard it was a hard call, i'd say the Standard sounds closer to the older strats and the Deluxe is more a modern take. Either way i am really enjoying the guitar so far and who knows it might tempt me to get a Deluxe one day.
Was on my way to the guitar center,your video dropped on time :)
+Maia Adi Nice! I hope you find a guitar you really love to play :)
Great comparison but wow the sound from the deluxe is amazing
Good comparison.The colours and the pickups as you stated are precisely the reason I prefer the Deluxe.
Thanks for this video Darrell
I’m considering a Squier for my practice guitar
I think this video shows your ability to play more than anything.. The classic vibe models are amazing for the price point but I have been underwhelmed with the others. I admit you make them sound amazing in the vid. Love your channel.
+Lyndel Carpenter Thanks! I appreciate the kind words!
Yeah, the Classic Vibe guitars are well build instruments :)
Excellent! I've just purchased a standard with maple fret board from Kraft Music @ $199 delivered. Thanks, Darrell. I'll experiment with string gauges to enhance the warmth. I found less distortion in the standard. That's what won my vote.
+Gary McAleer Nice! Enjoy your new guitar 🎸👍😀
I have the exact same standard. . Tweaked the truss rod and it has an amazing action. . For a home player like myself its spot on. .
I have a Deluxe, great guitar, I love how it plays and feels. Such a versatile guitar.
Cool riffs.... especially for Layla!!!! thanks, man
+dimas alexander 😀👍
the deluxe is so smooth and polite.. however the standard has that harsh bright sound.. harsh in a good way for me!! i believe Pick the deluxe and replace the pickups will give you better sound
@Dog thats an option, however 3rd party pickups sounds better that MIM stock..
Great job! PLEASE DO A VERSUS VIDEO BETWEEN that squier standard vs Fender
+Guitar House Lima I'll add it to my list :)
Darrel you are a great guitar player, the sound that you get from both strats are a delight!! I enjoy a lot your video!! Thanks
+José Luis Rivera Thanks for the kind words! I'm glad you enjoyed the video :)
I just bought the deluxe just because i was looking for a guitar and i saw your video and i just fell in love with the everything about it
+that kid Congrats on the new guitar! I hope you love it!
Thank you so much
Very nice demo. I have the Srandard and I love it, and I also have a MIM sttat with US electronics but the Squier is a great instrument!
I'll be going for delux soon....thanks man for the awesome comparison
Glad to help!
The standard makes a better project guitar. Paid 250 for mine. Put about 300 more in it. Pots, caps, pickups, Jack, roller saddles, graphtech earvana nut, and an extra trem spring. For 550 bucks I have a guitar that shits on a Mexican strat and goes toe to toe with an American deluxe in sound and playablity.
I just did similarly. I went to look at some Deluxe and Vintage Vibes, but the Affinity at this store blew the others away. From the selection of guitars available to me, this Affinity (2016 from Indonesia) was so much nicer than the Deluxe, Vintage, Bullet, etc. at this store. The actions and neck were nearly perfect at the store, two minutes at home I had it perfect for me. I immediately ordered some Seymour Duncans, pots, etc. I am upgrading everything except for the bridge. I don't use tremolo bars, and the block saddles on it are nice. I was going to replace them with Roller Saddles but after reading some say that they didn;t like them and they lessen the tone quality some w/ the moving parts and them not holding up long etc. This caused me to think twice, so I opted to leave the saddles stock for now. How has your experience with them been?
smartacus88 Hey, how's the sustain on your standard without the modifications?
I really need to know
But neck on a MIM feels SO much better.
I’ve modified Squire Bullets that compete with top end fenders. Every guitar has a slightly different tone, and with so many different pickups and mods available I’ve gotten better tone out of 4 piece basswood bodies than whole alder.
I enjoy the Standard's chiminess and sparkle. The Deluxe to me sounds too compressed. I believe the basswood absorbs the top end on the Deluxe. Agathis is a marvelous tonewood imho.
5:06 I almost flip out cuz wasn't expecting that one omg
Great demo!
I finally got my Standard Deluxe Strat QMT back from the shop, it is basically a standard strat with a quilted maple top and pearl pickguard.
The alnicos paired with 250k pots and .047 and a bone nut really helped. Not to mention the refret, now the notes really ring out.
Big difference with the Squier Deluxe Hot Rails, although those are a different monster being dual rail humbuckers basically.
+socialdef3 Nice! Sounds like a great instrument!
Darrell Braun Guitar I am happy and your video really helped me define the sound I was going after!! Thanks again man!!
+socialdef3 Anytime!
Hey quick question, which amp are you using in this video? Gave the 2 and 4 positions a nice bit of quack! Or are your treble setting different for those positions??
+socialdef3 The amp is a Mesa Boogie Blue Angel. All the settings we kept the same on the amp :)
That Deluxe looks and sounds awesome!!!
At around 7:00, love the Jeff Beck sound! Thanks, Darrell.
+promerops No problem! Glad you liked it :)
I''m new to playing a stratocaster guitar. I have never played a guitar with the volume knob so close to the strings. I place my right hand over the saddles on the bridge so I can mute or not. My problem is that I keep rolling off the volume knob when I strum and play. I usually have my pinky finger very close or on the edge of the volume knob. Can you show a video of proper right hand placement to play the strat. I usually play a les Paul. Knobs are not near the playing area. Thank you for your help and your cheerful presentations. You cover practical stuff and don't just go along with what "everyone" else says. Risk taker! Yay!
I prefer absolutely deluxe model. Great video thanks!
Love my Squier Deluxe. As I don't use the whammy much, just for fun I put three new springs in (1 straight, 2 angled )and locked the trem to the body . The difference in tone and sustain was amazing so I'll keep it this way for a while. You get plenty of bang for your buck with Squiers and I wouldn't have the guts to fool around with a Custom Shop!!!
Great video. Standard for me!! I love that sound
I bought a Squier Deluxe from 07 and I honestly I was gonna try to just sell it off cheap to get something newer, but after watching some of these videos, I'm def gonna keep it. I'm usually a bassist and just hadn't given this guitar a chance yet.