ULTIMATE Stratocaster Comparison! - From Squier Affinity to Fender Custom Shop!

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  • Опубліковано 1 сер 2024
  • From Squier Affinity to Fender Custom Shop and everything in between! Today I break down each tier of Strat, their cost, their features, and their tones!
    If you enjoyed this video, be sure to like and subscribe :)
    GEAR USED IN VIDEO:
    Affinity Strat - imp.i114863.net/KeJ6kN
    Classic Vibe Strat - imp.i114863.net/mgzKxM
    Player Series Strat - imp.i114863.net/x9yKA1
    American Professional Strat - imp.i114863.net/9WA6v5
    Fender Custom Shop - imp.i114863.net/kjzKLL
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    *Links to gear in the video description may contain affiliate links
    OTHER FAVOURITE GEAR:
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    SOLI DEO GLORIA!
    0:00 Introduction
    1:05 Squier Affinity
    2:23 Squier Classic Vibe
    3:57 Fender Player Series
    6:52 Fender American Professional
    9:48 Fender Custom Shop

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,1 тис.

  • @DarrellBraunGuitar
    @DarrellBraunGuitar  3 роки тому +111

    Let me know which Strat you thought sounded the best, and which one you'd spend your hard-earned money on! Enjoy :)

    • @israelgarciaramos1225
      @israelgarciaramos1225 3 роки тому +5

      who won the ibanez?

    • @agch771
      @agch771 3 роки тому +5

      catch em all

    • @kianguitars2537
      @kianguitars2537 3 роки тому +4

      I wish someone give me a cheap electric guitar😢

    • @groovedoggy
      @groovedoggy 3 роки тому +3

      I know it's not technically a Fender but I would throw a Shijie in there. Apparently they're absolutely incredible guitars. For a little over $1K they'll rival a custom shop. Stainless frets locking tuners and really good hardware.

    • @MyButtsBeenWiped
      @MyButtsBeenWiped 3 роки тому +1

      Play Authentic !

  • @theguitarclubonline
    @theguitarclubonline 3 роки тому +139

    I did a blind test for my student between my 'Classic Vibe' & Custom Shop. Said the Squire sounded better :(

    • @monmixer
      @monmixer 3 роки тому +35

      Every ones ear is bit different. Don't fret it.

    • @lostreb
      @lostreb 3 роки тому +19

      @@monmixer Thank you for the laugh, and well played!!

    • @PragmaticDany
      @PragmaticDany 3 роки тому +18

      It's all about playability and looks. There is nothing like a bad sounding guitar being made anymore.

    • @grinne2975
      @grinne2975 3 роки тому +1

      Squier

    • @mandubabulam
      @mandubabulam 2 роки тому +2

      tbf the classic vibe is a really great guitar

  • @smrititrivendra4884
    @smrititrivendra4884 3 роки тому +76

    squier affinity 10:54
    squier classic vibe 11:05
    fender player 11:17
    fender professional 11:30
    fender select 11:42

    • @diujay
      @diujay 5 місяців тому +1

      Thanks a lot

  • @cityofghosts4037
    @cityofghosts4037 Рік тому +7

    Your videos are so good. Concise with no waffling you say just what needs to be said, and you seem like a super passionate and nice guy. Thanks.

  • @mw5150g
    @mw5150g 3 роки тому +743

    Let's be honest, soundwise, the Squier Classic Vibe series is nearly identical to the Fender Player series.

    • @karlcarlsburg9641
      @karlcarlsburg9641 3 роки тому +103

      The internet is not the proper venue for honesty. Lol.

    • @laketownmusic
      @laketownmusic 3 роки тому +58

      Yeah heck the classic vibe has an actual bone nut, so all you gotta do nowadays is replace the electronics (not the pickups because they’re great for the money) and you have basically a slightly better player strat

    • @isaacpaolino718
      @isaacpaolino718 3 роки тому +23

      Yeah I wanted a player series because I thought a fender must be better sounding but when I played the two guitars I couldn't tell the difference.

    • @kreechrr
      @kreechrr 3 роки тому +13

      I love my 50s CV. Swapped the switch, bridge (for the thick block) and pups to a 57/62 for "added authenticity"
      There nothing like that chime in clean tones
      Plus the body is alder, like my Charvel DK24 over 2x the price; even if it's not as thick as the fender equivalent.

    • @omarvillegas7071
      @omarvillegas7071 3 роки тому +30

      One big difference its the wood of the body, in squier you get poplar, and
      the player is made with alder

  • @RC32Smiths01
    @RC32Smiths01 3 роки тому +87

    In many cases, a Strat is simply a guitar's best friend. Always feels awesome to play, and have a range of versatility. Cheers!

    • @darphbobo55
      @darphbobo55 3 роки тому +19

      Isn’t a strat a guitar lol? How is it a guitar’s best friend?

    • @upshitdownshit4200
      @upshitdownshit4200 3 роки тому +14

      @@darphbobo55 Gibson's got lonely

    • @olivereaster2778
      @olivereaster2778 3 роки тому +12

      @@darphbobo55 think he meant “guitarist’s”

    • @christopher-miles
      @christopher-miles 3 роки тому +2

      @@darphbobo55 nerd.

  • @rayschoch5882
    @rayschoch5882 3 роки тому +66

    When I bought my Squier in 1986, it was the only "budget" model Fender made. It still looks decent, and sounds good. The high-end model in Darrell's demo sounded the best, but not thousands of dollars better than the Affinity, which is a close 2nd in my book, and you can put high-end pickups in an Affinity to get the same sound quality as the high-end one for a lot less money. I don't much care where the guitar is made, and have instruments from Japan, Indonesia and Korea that all sound just fine.

    • @guitar_fed
      @guitar_fed 3 роки тому +6

      Oh good, at least I am not the only one who thought that the Squier affinity sounds impressively good! I would put Custom and Affinity as 1st and 2nd as well!

    • @beefnacos6258
      @beefnacos6258 3 роки тому +7

      I'm with you. At the end of the day though it's not all about the sound it's about how the guitar actually feels and plays.

    • @LukeLX
      @LukeLX Рік тому

      The affinity definitely sounds closer to the top models than vibe and player

    • @ptrisonic
      @ptrisonic Рік тому

      You can also get thick, Brass (or Steel) BUT shorter trem blocks..... easy upgrade too.

  • @DavidHBurkart
    @DavidHBurkart 3 роки тому +1

    Just rehearsed our set tonight with my 70s Classic Vibe Strat. I bought it this past February and it is presently my favorite guitar to play. It just fits me well, I love the classic look and feel, offers quality above its price point.

  • @jokinmyass9446
    @jokinmyass9446 3 роки тому +24

    I just bought my first strat. I got it for $30 it's a 1994 squier. Bought it at a pawn shop that was going out of business, guitar was labeled " parts guitar" all because the tuning pot dials were missing and the input jack was dangling. Other than that everything was there. After my restoration job is complete I'll be super excited to play it.

    • @christopheraaron8299
      @christopheraaron8299 2 роки тому +4

      Sounds like the Les Paul Special I found at Salvation Army for $20 that was missing it's bridge (and obviously strings.) I just got a roller bridge on Amazon for $12 and a set of super slinkys and it was suddenly a nice $200 guitar.

    • @baumfr
      @baumfr 2 роки тому +2

      @@christopheraaron8299 I had no idea there was such a thing as a roller bridge. So I looked it up. Learn something new. Thanks.

    • @christopheraaron8299
      @christopheraaron8299 2 роки тому

      @@baumfr Cool, aren't they? You're far less likely to break a string at the bridge with rollers.

    • @Zoso7227
      @Zoso7227 2 роки тому

      I also went to a pawn shop for the first time and they wanted to move for inventory and got 4 for $10 each. 2 squiers and 2 off brand strat styles. Only issues were dings but who cares. Always check out pawn shops and you may get lucky

  • @sotg1167
    @sotg1167 3 роки тому +54

    This is a sick video idea, I hope that you do more like this, with other types of guitars.

  • @richardcooper7935
    @richardcooper7935 3 роки тому +1

    I have a Pacifica 012 and will be looking to upgrade to a fender very soon so I’m always looking for comparison videos - most of which talk about tone. This video is the most comprehensive I have seen in terms of hardware and what you’re actually paying for.

  • @Adi-ok3rg
    @Adi-ok3rg Рік тому

    Really thoroughly love your channel!! Especially the comparison videos! So detailed and spectacular!

  • @heavybrett-al4082
    @heavybrett-al4082 3 роки тому +10

    I recently brought a squire 70's classic Vibe Strat,and it plays and sounds better than my Mexican fender.

  • @rahardyanaldi
    @rahardyanaldi 3 роки тому +14

    This is the topic that we're all waiting for!

  • @LucyLeheilleix
    @LucyLeheilleix Рік тому +1

    Love your channel so much! I just started playing again after a 15 year break. I think the classic vibe is the one I’ll get.

  • @wowdogeful
    @wowdogeful 3 роки тому

    I haven't played in a relatively long time, but I'm still subscribed to your channel just because your content is so good! I'm absolutely blown away by how good even the relatively inexpensive guitars are today!

  • @93greenstrat
    @93greenstrat 3 роки тому +25

    The Player Strat is basically what the old American Standard Strat used to be. A great bargain, IMO, and very much a professional quality guitar.

    • @strawsparky33
      @strawsparky33 Рік тому

      but its not American....

    • @iused2bfast153
      @iused2bfast153 Рік тому

      You got it, its a pre-2008 Am Std with stamped saddles and 1.65" nut width. Even the bridge assemblies are identical and even weigh the same.

    • @yurawylde7212
      @yurawylde7212 11 місяців тому

      no!

  • @TexanUSMC8089
    @TexanUSMC8089 3 роки тому +52

    It makes no sense for the MIM to have a plastic nut. A bone or graftek doesn't cost that much. What's $5 when you're already spending $700+.

    • @pablo9364
      @pablo9364 3 роки тому +1

      Exactly

    • @BluesCat1980
      @BluesCat1980 3 роки тому +7

      Anywhere they can save money, they'll cost cut. You take $5.00 multiplied by thousands, Fender is saving at of money.

    • @golfhound
      @golfhound 3 роки тому +4

      @@BluesCat1980 yes they are saving, but the cost cut to Fender is not worth it. Put the bone nut on there and raise the price. Also, locking tuners. Both changes would make the player series far more attractive.

    • @PragmaticDany
      @PragmaticDany 3 роки тому +2

      @@golfhound Fender executives talked about this for days my man. They decided that saving the extra $5 per nut a in a year of production is going to allow them to buy a new porche each. Believe, they know what they are doing. They know that we are still going to buy into the logo, whatever they put in it.

    • @edwardglyons
      @edwardglyons 2 роки тому +3

      Marketing. If the MIM gets too close to the quality of the American models, it gets harder to justify the price for a USA strat.

  • @psh_
    @psh_ 3 роки тому +1

    I got myself a Player series and I love it. Watching your video, I feel like the Classic Vibe is also a really good choice for people looking for a new guitar, I really enjoyed how it sounds.

  • @Maxwells_Silverhammers
    @Maxwells_Silverhammers 3 роки тому

    Simply the best comparison I've seen on here so far! I have an early 2000s mim start, and was hoping to get another. Thank you so much! I'm getting the player series. As much as I want to get the select, I'd invest it on other gear xD

  • @scottreynolds6317
    @scottreynolds6317 3 роки тому +3

    Great comparison!!! Love my American Professional Strat!!! Agree that MIM Player series gives the best bang for the buck.

  • @randallcl9925
    @randallcl9925 3 роки тому +21

    I bought that exact same Aged Cherry Burst Player Strat last year and it is gorgeous and fantastic in every way! There is no reason to replace the trem, just get the Fender springs that drop into the screw hole and you can adjust how tight or loose the trem lever is.

    • @user-of9ut1hd9q
      @user-of9ut1hd9q 3 роки тому

      I have the exact same one as well and am beyond in love with it. I was actually wondering about the trem bar springs, so that’s good to know they’ll work. Are you using the fender branded springs or the strewmac spring/ball bearing?
      Edit: I just now saw you said Fender springs

    • @randallcl9925
      @randallcl9925 3 роки тому

      @@user-of9ut1hd9q Yes it is a fantastic guitar, worth every penny! The resale value of Fender is so high that I could sell mine for what I paid for it (on sale 18 months ago) or more. I love the pickups too, Fender makes so many Strat pickups but the alnico Players are great and it's not worth the expense of upgrading. He did not mention how the bottom tone control works the bridge pickup and how much that improves the sound. This is my main Strat and as Darrell said I will keep it forever. I bought a bag of 12 Fender trem springs for less than $6US online.

    • @stephanskogen3817
      @stephanskogen3817 3 роки тому

      I also popped a spring into my 2013 Player (which I believe in slightly different than todays Player), and I have no issues with the trem arm after that

    • @gavinw5469
      @gavinw5469 3 роки тому

      @@stephanskogen3817 the difference is that it is not a player strat. Player strats didn't exist back then. Just a made in Mexico standard. Also worse quality than the new player series.

  • @billydworrell8259
    @billydworrell8259 11 місяців тому

    Thx so much for the very clear and quick breakdown of the 5 strat club, I'm seriously considering the Squier Vibe series and thought it looked great and was a quality piece and in the very affordable good bang for the buck product. And the versatility you get from the Strat perspective is always a positive selling consideration. Once again really enjoyed your assessment and presentation on this video.

  • @bluepedalsrock9271
    @bluepedalsrock9271 3 роки тому

    This is an essential video I feel every guitarist should see. Excellent work my friend.

  • @weedyguitarstudio1715
    @weedyguitarstudio1715 3 роки тому +110

    Is it worth double your money "Heck No" - Darrell Braun

    • @3kil0w4tt
      @3kil0w4tt 3 роки тому +3

      That's Dah RELL Bra OON...LOL
      But seriously, thank you, Darrell, for doing these kinds of comparos and really all you do with regard to gear, you're one of my top three that I go to for research. Thanks again!

    • @whatspadethinks
      @whatspadethinks 2 роки тому

      Golly, if I knew Darrell was going to start going all Howard Stern on us I certainly would've plugged my ears. Really Darrell, you don't need to work blue...

  • @Chrsly
    @Chrsly 3 роки тому +11

    The Player Series is fantastic! So so sweet.

  • @UriRocks
    @UriRocks 3 роки тому +2

    Hey DBG, great video! I really liked the way the red squier sounded even over the Vmod pickups on the American Pro. I actually bought a Deep C neck for a partscaster build and like you said, the neck is chunkier but it's easy to adjust. I will say the guitar seems to resonate longer than my old modern C neck. Rock on!

  • @audiophileman7047
    @audiophileman7047 3 роки тому

    I really enjoyed this video. Always wondered whether the Squier series guitars were worth it, especially the Classic Vibe. I really like how you broke down the features as you ascended in price level. It is very helpful for anyone trying to decide what to get within a particular budget. 👍👍👍👍👍

  • @spirit_green
    @spirit_green 3 роки тому +5

    I spent $860 on my Player Series Strat mainly due to the humbucker pickups it came with, I wanted an HSS configuration so I could have more versatility. I really love the guitar. Not only is it my first real Stratocaster, but its such a huge upgrade from the guitar I started out with, which is a Starcaster by Fender guitar. I'm not even sure if that guitar can even be called a "Strat." I am also happy to hear that the Player Series is a lifetime guitar. I still say it is well worth the money. On a side note to newcomers who buy the player series, make sure you buy a case with it too. It does not come with a case. I already have a guitar case but that's because I also own a cheap guitar.

  • @miguelmachado2006
    @miguelmachado2006 3 роки тому +3

    Great review and explanations as usual! We will be very happy if you can do the same analysis on LP!

  • @DaringDan
    @DaringDan 3 роки тому +2

    I dropped an American Pro I loaded pickguard in my Affinity Strat and love it. After 3 years on the beginner Squier I was ready to up the quality of the sound but still loved the feel of the Squier. It was a great upgrade and only cost me a few hundred bucks on stratosphere.

  • @saumil1989
    @saumil1989 3 роки тому

    The video I always wanted from years. Much appreciated. Thanks DB :)

  • @judih.8754
    @judih.8754 3 роки тому +10

    Great comparison with your honest comments. I liked the short back to back playing segment. I agree with your assessments of the two choices. I'll stay with my Pacifica though. Cheers.

    • @MustafaBaabad
      @MustafaBaabad 3 роки тому +1

      You just make me more convince that Pacifica is the reasonable choice. Cheers from Indonesia.

    • @judih.8754
      @judih.8754 3 роки тому +1

      @@MustafaBaabad a nice selection in various configurations and price points. They've always been seen as value packed. Darrell has done a few videos on Pacificas. Check them out. Cheers.

  • @connorberohn9310
    @connorberohn9310 3 роки тому +3

    The player is literally the exact guitar that I have, same color and everything and I love it so much

  • @chiefobeef
    @chiefobeef 3 роки тому

    As a very casual Fender fan out of the loop on what's what with the current landscape, this video is a great overview, thanks!

  • @colin_a
    @colin_a 8 місяців тому

    Darrell.., love your reviews.. I don't even play guitar!, which is a bit mad, but you just do such an informed well-presented review... All the best from the UK.. 👍

  • @jimm8594
    @jimm8594 3 роки тому +5

    I had a MIM Strat and an American Strat at the same time, the difference was significant. The weight, neck profile, tone. Night and day.

    • @muhammadghur
      @muhammadghur 3 роки тому

      @@confrex4256 Nope, MIA non-CS are mostly made of 2 or 3 piece. The MIM are 4 piece, if you are lucky, you will get 3 piece. I have both MIM & MIA, and yeah the tone is different if you played it in person.

  • @leonedantonio
    @leonedantonio 3 роки тому +64

    There's also an American Professional II Series with the new pickups and push pull as well as contoured heel. And following up this is the Ultra Series which do have locking tuners but come with noiseless pickups.

    • @ClintsCrypt
      @ClintsCrypt 3 роки тому +2

      The Elite/Ultra Series have the compound radius fretboards. My American Professional does not have a contoured heel. The Pro II does have one. So does my Elite. My Elite also has a S1 switch.

    • @dsholt
      @dsholt 3 роки тому +6

      I was also wondering why he jumped over the Ultra from the Pro to the Custom Shop. Could have given a shout out to the Original series too.

    • @robertdonosobuchner3129
      @robertdonosobuchner3129 3 роки тому +1

      Yes I agree. What's about the other series from Fender...?

    • @thesullivanstreetproject
      @thesullivanstreetproject 3 роки тому +1

      @@robertdonosobuchner3129 yeah, there are a bunch more. I’m assuming he didn’t cover them because he doesn’t own them?

    • @arn999
      @arn999 3 роки тому

      @@ClintsCrypt If you have a Pro II, it does have a contoured heel (just less than the Ultra). The Pro I, which I have, doesn't.

  • @kevin_gross
    @kevin_gross 3 роки тому

    Legendary honest review as always. I love this channel yet I'm a drummer... keep it up, greetings from Australia
    PS: I have a classic vibe tele which all my guitarist mates rave about. The Squires really do make a sweet rig.

  • @SkipRides
    @SkipRides Рік тому

    Quality video man. Short and sweet, very impressed brother

  • @garygosse5747
    @garygosse5747 3 роки тому +3

    Loved the video and it just happens i have a Classic Vibe Strat and a MIM Tele love them both.

  • @bigwavedave8492
    @bigwavedave8492 3 роки тому +4

    I've been loving made in Mexico Stratocasters since 92 when I got and still have my first one they are without a doubt the sound and feel of a strat ... I suggest constantly to friends that want that tone to just get a player model

  • @loubadabin420
    @loubadabin420 3 роки тому +2

    Great demo on the various Strat models, thanks.....

  • @TheStobb50
    @TheStobb50 3 роки тому

    I have a Squire affinity which I bought in the 90s I’ve got to say I love it, I use it for demo recordings as I am a drummer and a bass player. My goto bass is a Squire 50 anniversary p bass which I also bought in the 90s and is better then most Fender p bass Ive have tried. Thanks for all the work you do on this channel I love it

  • @atb1325
    @atb1325 3 роки тому +11

    Squire Bullets are the base model. The Affinity's are the next tier. I bought a Squire Blackout HSS LTD edition last year and it is a great guitar! 129.00 dollars free shipping from Guitar Center. I have the trem edition and the hard tail was 60.00 dollars more at that time. No fret buzz, nice action and good build quality. The Indonesian CORT built are very good for the money spent. I'm a Les Paul guy and bought this affordable Strat just to delve into Stratocasters. I must say that I was very impressed with way it played and build quality right out the box. It has become one of my favorite guitars to pick up and play. The neck is so comfortable with the light satin finish. Great affordable guitars!! I have guitars that cost 5 times as much and I must say that Squire makes some very nice guitars for the money.

  • @dsholt
    @dsholt 3 роки тому +65

    The $1500 for a Professional series strat is definitely a jump up in price, but when compared to other US-made flagship guitars, it is still a bargain.

    • @mikewilson0077
      @mikewilson0077 3 роки тому +7

      and it includes a hard shell case

    • @winteroutside7014
      @winteroutside7014 Рік тому +1

      itsa bolt-on neck not a neck-through like Agile has . usa sucks . imitation les paul by gibson , last gibson les paul made in 1960

    • @aphotosyntheticworld
      @aphotosyntheticworld Рік тому

      Even more of a bargain in the Mod Shop. Can pretty much make an ultra without noiseless pickups for 1900 with a great combination of materials and colors to choose from. Couldn't be happier with my 1 of 1 strat.

  • @VFCproductions
    @VFCproductions 3 роки тому

    From the title of this video alone I knew what your recommendation would be! You are a wise man and my Player is amazing for the price

  • @briannelms158
    @briannelms158 3 роки тому

    Great in depth comparison Darrell! The Affinity series comes with 2 point trim this year!

  • @FayyazAhmed
    @FayyazAhmed 3 роки тому +14

    No mention of fretboard woods, which is one of the major differences: Laurel, Pau Ferro, Rosewood . No mention of fret specs. Professionals having arguably the best frets, 6105 narrow talls. And should have reviewed the current generation Professional ii. They have heel carve, S1 switching etc

    • @DougMen1
      @DougMen1 2 роки тому

      The current CV gutars all have narrow tall frets too

  • @harveywhitehead303
    @harveywhitehead303 3 роки тому +11

    The player series 2 point trem has a screw in bar. If you want an instant upgrade that requires no tools, buy the tiny trem-bar spring. You simply unscrew the trem bar, drop the spring in the trem bar hole. Reinstall the trem bar. You will feel the spring tension on the trem bar. It actually holds the trem bar where you want it. The spring is tiny but beefy. It does a great job.

    • @ptrisonic
      @ptrisonic Рік тому

      Plumber's teflon tape works as well.... I'm always losing those springs so keep a few in your gig bag. Pete.

    • @deadppqqqq4822
      @deadppqqqq4822 6 місяців тому

      @@ptrisonicI’m sorry but how do you lose them?? Lol you’d have to constantly unscrew your trem bar frequently. Like OP said literally just pop one in and forget about it

  • @scottimusgarrett15
    @scottimusgarrett15 3 роки тому

    Thanks, man! Always good, honest advice! Have a good one!

  • @elihue_redneckreview
    @elihue_redneckreview 3 роки тому +1

    I've got the hss player series, and it is quite the player indeed. Looks great, plays great, sounds great. I'm happy with it.

  • @retiredguyadventures6211
    @retiredguyadventures6211 3 роки тому +10

    I just bought a Fender Player Plus Top aged cherry HSS strat that is identical to the one used in this video. I swapped out the tuners to Fender's Locking tuners and had a professional luthier do a setup on it. I also had him change the nut to a Graph Tech nut because I though the string height was to high, and I installed a Graph Tech string tree. this guitar plays like butter now and I love it...

  • @brayandoctor182
    @brayandoctor182 3 роки тому +6

    For brazilian people, have a affinity is a great conquer, here the guitar costs 3 times the minimum wage, and the cheapest fender is more or less 10 times

  • @kushanisiwara4058
    @kushanisiwara4058 Рік тому +2

    I am happy that I chose to buy the squire classic vibe 50s strat as my first electric guitar. I have been using it so far and is the only electric guitar I have. Feel happy that I can use it for live shows without worrying too much

  • @elzafir
    @elzafir 3 роки тому

    Content like this is why you're one of the top 5 guitar UA-camr.

  • @retroquest3579
    @retroquest3579 3 роки тому +8

    As far as necks go .. Satin over Gloss, 110% of the time. 😎

  • @zacharymiraziz4585
    @zacharymiraziz4585 3 роки тому +9

    I own the exact same player series that Darrell showed in this video, as well as an American Professional series, to me the difference is mostly apparent in the sound of the pickups. The American Pro sounds incredible, the Player series pickups, not so much, but that’s just a simple upgrade :)

    • @insufferablethrashelitist9305
      @insufferablethrashelitist9305 6 місяців тому

      I got a green flame maple player series that I love. Couldn't get quite the distorted richness I wanted from the bridge so I ended up putting a Seymour jb trembucker in there, then eventually a jb jr in the middle and hotrail at the neck. Put staggered locking tuners and graphtech stringsaver saddles on the bridge and it's just awesome, for far less than any American strat and in my opinion vastly better.

  • @MarcCoteMusic
    @MarcCoteMusic 3 роки тому +2

    I love that MiM, Darrell, if ever you want to sell it. Nice comparison here, and I tend to agree with you on the value proposition of both the MiM and the Classic Vibe.

  • @gmscurto
    @gmscurto 3 роки тому +1

    Excellent video. Interesting and informative. Especially appreciated your heartfelt recommendations at the end. Thank you.
    Maybe a similar video on Epiphone and Gibson SGs?

  • @derekclacton
    @derekclacton 3 роки тому +9

    Moral of the story - costing twice as much doesn’t mean a guitar is twice as good. You get what you pay for / play for and can upgrade if you feel the need. At the end of the day, if you like playing it you will and a cheap guitar will always sound better through a good amp than an expensive guitar played through a cheap amp …

  • @utecastronoova863
    @utecastronoova863 3 роки тому +3

    They play and feel diferent. I like the worn in feel of the vintera Road worn, especially the 70s tele with 12'' Radius. Deluxe series has 12'" Radius too. I also tried the boxer Japan strat and playa great and sounds great unplugged. Gotta play them before You Buy one

  • @bebluebop
    @bebluebop 2 роки тому

    Dude you are doing something that robot can't 🙃. Thanks for all kind of help and inspirations. Stay Blessed. Peace Man👊

  • @jtwrc
    @jtwrc 3 роки тому

    Thanks for the review Darrell. Excellent as always.
    I've owned the Bullet, Affinity, CV (70s HSS), Players and an American Professional. I currently own the American Professional .
    The CV and the Player sound good and are probably the best value.
    As a modding platform the I'd pick the CV. If not, I'd select the Players series. Better resale.
    If, you have to have an American Professional, look for used.
    I live 10 miles from a local Guitar Center and found a perfect 2020 last year for under a grand.

  • @LiesThatBind
    @LiesThatBind 3 роки тому +23

    There are actually three lines now that are made in Mexico: Player series, Vintera and Noventa. Personally, the most interesting one for 2021 that is MIM, is the 75th anniversary which is basically a Player series with the Vintera 60's pickups, a matching headstock and a gigbag for little more than a what a Players series goes for.

    • @omarvillegas7071
      @omarvillegas7071 3 роки тому +2

      And the deluxe series

    • @LiesThatBind
      @LiesThatBind 3 роки тому +3

      @@omarvillegas7071 True I forgot about that one. So many choices nowadays.

    • @kentfuqua9634
      @kentfuqua9634 3 роки тому +1

      I had a MIM strat that I could kick myself for ever trading for a made in America. Tone was great and each position was great. I have a Gretch today-semi hollow and great tone.

    • @Ndlanding
      @Ndlanding 3 роки тому

      I'd buy it just for the gig bag! Not.

    • @LiesThatBind
      @LiesThatBind 3 роки тому

      @@Ndlanding no one would, but it's still better than none. Vintera 60's pickups, matching headstock and it being a limited edition(collectible) are the main draws here.

  • @happygolukky
    @happygolukky 3 роки тому +6

    Wow classic vibe strat was a wake up call! Thanks for the comparison!

  • @dumpsterchicken6287
    @dumpsterchicken6287 3 роки тому +1

    Great video. I liked the tone of the classic vibe the best.

  • @faethe000
    @faethe000 3 роки тому +1

    This is kind of long, but I figured you might like hearing how you've inspired me to keep going with my lessons. I'm a non-traditional player as a Gen X woman, and I hired a teacher about 6 months ago. Bought myself a Fender strat and an amp and went at it. My teacher keeps concentrating on theory and technique and I know it's necessary so I do it, and sometimes it's interesting. I'll be glad to know it all later. But god it gets hard to stay focused on practicing that stuff.
    When things I'm practicing are really hard or really boring and I want to quit, I honestly come watch your gear reviews. I don't actually care about the guitars you review other than enjoying looking at them. I'm satisfied with my guitar. But it's your playing. I really love your playing in your videos. When I hear your playing and how comfortable, familiar and easy it seems for you (which I know is from practice), I think to myself that one day maybe I'll be able to play like you and I can get back to practicing.
    So thank you, from a struggling student :)
    P.S. to answer your video's question, I bought a Fender American Pro II.

  • @johnwelch557
    @johnwelch557 3 роки тому +3

    I've never had tuning issues with the Affinity. The six screws are just pivot posts. Back them out 3 turns minimum. Thanks Darrell!

    • @artamussumatra6286
      @artamussumatra6286 3 роки тому +1

      I prefer the 6 screw type. I’ve played both, and imho, the supposed superiority of the 2 post is just a placebo effect myth. It’s all in the set up, and both types benefit greatly from doing a correct one.

    • @chrisraatz6672
      @chrisraatz6672 3 роки тому

      Agreed. The 2-point/6-screw comparison is usually pointless. Set either up well and you will have no issues.

    • @theWARMJET
      @theWARMJET Рік тому +1

      I have had some tunning problems on mine, Affinity, but after putting some vaseline on the sadles and graphite on the neck it holds tunning quite well. I have a thing for my Affinity Indonesian Strat

  • @arkram_68
    @arkram_68 3 роки тому +14

    How About Some Telecaster's Darrell That Would Be A Great Video

  • @rixz66sudsy
    @rixz66sudsy 3 роки тому +2

    Love the 10-14 compound radius and locking tuners on my SSS Ultra..... my Deluxe Lonestar HSS with rosewood fingerboard is another favorite.

  • @januszwu973
    @januszwu973 3 роки тому

    great video. finally all the fender series explained

  • @TheDanification
    @TheDanification 3 роки тому +56

    Didn’t mention the American Performer series. Around $1,100 for a Strat or Tele. It’s the lowest price point for a new USA made Fender

    • @ahelmste
      @ahelmste 3 роки тому +3

      I love my performer Tele and I’ll probably get the performer Strat. They really check all the boxes.

    • @maxcameron7094
      @maxcameron7094 3 роки тому +3

      @@ahelmste Same, I have a limited edition performer serie telecaster in a butterscotch with a maple fretboard. Absolutely love it.

    • @weaponload6427
      @weaponload6427 3 роки тому +1

      Me too, I have an all black AM Perf. Strat with HSS configuration and it‘s literally the best... does everything, beautiful tone and marvelous playability
      Edit: Did I mention that I didn‘t need to tune it for almost a year despite constant playing and carrying it through different weather conditions? Yeah, they hold tune wonderfully.

    • @rsuazon
      @rsuazon 3 роки тому +1

      I just wish the Performer series had the Deep C neck profile like the Pro's do. I would probably have a performer strat by now if it did

    • @weaponload6427
      @weaponload6427 3 роки тому

      @@rsuazon I never noticed when playing... I am not that familiar with neck shapes, what exactly is the difference?

  • @darphbobo55
    @darphbobo55 3 роки тому +3

    Aww yesss I am thinking about buying a Stratocaster thanks for the info

  • @jackb3159
    @jackb3159 3 роки тому

    This is the video I’ve been looking for since i started guitar

  • @Cyndaquills
    @Cyndaquills 3 роки тому

    I’ve tried most of these and the player was my favorite. It felt great in my hands

  • @darrenhunt7838
    @darrenhunt7838 3 роки тому +5

    I have the American Professional 11 in HSS and in my opinion it’s a big step up over the pro 1. The V mod 2 pickups sound great. The neck feel is very obviously a big step up over the player series. I tried all but the Squiers and preferred the pro 11 over the Elite. It all comes down to the size of the wallet and personal likes I guess.

  • @musenw8834
    @musenw8834 2 роки тому +4

    The Affinity sounded warmest of the Squier tiers surprisingly - and even the professional came close but not as warn

    • @24MusicCarats
      @24MusicCarats Рік тому

      Bingo! I been doing my tests and theres something about the affinitys ceramic pick ups they feel very well rounded full bassy warm with bell tones.
      Where the rest almost feel thin harsh and metallic with no soul.

  • @alejandronavgar8798
    @alejandronavgar8798 3 роки тому

    As always excellent video Darrell. Congratulations.
    If I had to choose one it would be the Squier CV, just change potentiometers for very little money.
    Although my only Strat is called the Yamaha Pacifica .... 😁💪🎸

  • @ukuk907
    @ukuk907 3 роки тому

    Bardzo mi się podobało.Tak sobie myślałem, że player series bedzie najlepszym( najrozsądniejszym) wyborem.Łapa w górę👍👍👍

  • @Rastcao1984
    @Rastcao1984 3 роки тому +4

    Any updated thoughts about the 2021 updates, specifically for the affinity hhs and hh with the two point trem? Does the difference between they and the classic vibe narrow or is it still a cheaper trem system?

  • @markspinner2402
    @markspinner2402 3 роки тому +4

    Deluxe Roadhouse Strat. Noiseless pups, locking tuners, and much more

    • @vbrowning1756
      @vbrowning1756 3 роки тому

      Agreed. I have one myself and love it. Think the value is the best with all that comes with it. Wish it was part of the video.

  • @adriansvarela
    @adriansvarela 2 роки тому

    Love this! Such a great video when you’re addicted to strats haha

  • @SilverWatcher.
    @SilverWatcher. 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for this awesome video you made for us to drool over.
    I have a lake placid blue American performer stratocaster I simply adore it

  • @stevenpipes1555
    @stevenpipes1555 3 роки тому +3

    I baught a Jay Turser tele copy for 50, and even that had locking Grovers on it. Lol. Its awsome too by the way! New pots, with a treble bleed and a good tone circuit, some squire pickups, crown n polish and set up. . .and i swear that cheapo guitar is alive!

  • @slowpoke7888
    @slowpoke7888 3 роки тому +23

    What about the "Performer" Strat. My personal favourite. Just love the jumbo frets and Yosemite pickups. I gig with one and have a classic vibe as a backup.

    • @arn999
      @arn999 3 роки тому +1

      Yeah, there's a bunch missing. It's all a matter of preferences really. I don' love jumbo frets, so went with the Professional with its narrow-tall frets. Of course it's not great value for money (well, it is compared to Gibson!), but it's the guitar that fit my preferences the most, at a still non crazy price.

    • @taildragger53
      @taildragger53 3 роки тому +1

      YES!! VERY affordable and , together with the older series, (the jumbo fretted "'American Special,) my all time fave. LOVE the frets, can obtain a superb low action because of the fret profile, and the pups are brilliant for a vintage Blues vibe and even jazz.

    • @MrSpeed-lt8gr
      @MrSpeed-lt8gr 3 роки тому +1

      I love the specs of the Performer series. But I just don’t like the 70’s headstock.

    • @slowpoke7888
      @slowpoke7888 3 роки тому +2

      @@MrSpeed-lt8gr Yeah, I have to agree but I am growing more accustomed to it. Though I still prefer the smaller headstock.

    • @awooga177
      @awooga177 2 роки тому

      @@arn999 What’s the difference between jumbo and tall frets? Obviously I understand the physical difference but I guess what’s the pros of each?

  • @Levelheadd
    @Levelheadd 3 роки тому

    Great video 👍🏻 my 2020 Squier CV 60s came with a full size trem block. Was going to buy a player series when the guitar shop owner showed me the CV, (took the back plate off in store🤣). Since I saved so much I bought a Squier CV 50s telecaster 😎

  • @danielhartman5086
    @danielhartman5086 2 роки тому +2

    I just got a Squier affinity strat. Plan on moding the whole guitar. I love the way it plays and feels as well as the light weight.Just little mods at a time will make it a much better guitar.

  • @spencerfreed6947
    @spencerfreed6947 3 роки тому +9

    Fender now has a US made series in between MIM and the Pro series, it's called the Performer Series, and runs about $1,150. I love mine with a Penny finish!! The pickups they designed for the series are great! Only downside is the poly finish if you're into a more thin nitro finish

  • @MegaChang9
    @MegaChang9 3 роки тому +3

    You are a fair reviewer. You should be a college professor; you explain things very well.
    I do agree with your recommendation.

  • @skyplaysbass
    @skyplaysbass 8 днів тому

    Awesome very informative video thank you!
    Im a professional bass player wanting to step in to the guitar world to make some NOT awful demos for my bandmates, and its great to see theres really no wrong choices!
    My takeaway is almost the same for when I pick my basses, the sound is DIFFERENT, not better or worse, as long as the soldering isnt terrible, no matter what teir you'll have a great time

  • @oliverjames7315
    @oliverjames7315 3 роки тому

    Always love seeing Darrell appreciate different budgets and recognising what is a large amount of money in the real world.

  • @BenRobsonMusic
    @BenRobsonMusic 3 роки тому +3

    The mahogany body on that CS strat made me do a double take. Cool look, and not something I'm used to seeing!

  • @Smilenol
    @Smilenol 3 роки тому +3

    Let's not forget the japanese made Contemporary series from the 80's. I own a 1985 model with the system III trem and the coolest lever action locking nut .

  • @277southtombob
    @277southtombob 3 роки тому

    I have a Classic Vibe Strat and I swapped the trem block for a brass one and did a setup with a few tweaks. It made a great vintage style Strat and the pickups are actually great sounding and get that early 60’s sound dead on. The old MIM standard was a great platform for building a custom guitar on, I’ve picked a few up used for a couple of hundred bucks and made solid gigging instruments.

  • @lewisbirkett4428
    @lewisbirkett4428 3 роки тому

    Great video, this with telecasters would be great. I was surprised the lack of difference in sound from the classic vibe and onwards. I would get the cv in a heartbeat if it had 22 frets

  • @tdalb8985
    @tdalb8985 3 роки тому +6

    So the sweet spot is the most expensive Squire, & the cheapest Fender.
    Seems about right.
    I was obsessed with up grading for years, now I'm come to the conclusion the a Player Strat is all anyone needs.
    Still I'm proud to own a Made in USA guitar.

  • @TheLastFraudster
    @TheLastFraudster 3 роки тому +4

    What about the performer series? What's the difference?

  • @Clintthecoolguy
    @Clintthecoolguy 3 роки тому

    I'm digging that funky playing on the comparisons!

  • @marksmith7789
    @marksmith7789 Місяць тому +1

    Just bought a player and I love it, the pick ups are sweet enough for me I have to say. The nut I can live with. The trem is kinda not good enough but I did know this when I purchased and I will up grade. Fantastic guitar for me, cheers.