What Squier Would A Fender Master Builder Buy?

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  • Опубліковано 16 чер 2019
  • #knowyourgear #sharpenmyaxe #mcknightrepair
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    Tools used in this video
    Squier Affinity Strat - Competition Orange
    imp.i114863.net/EB0k9
    Squier Classic Vibe '60s Stratocaster
    imp.i114863.net/zomEm
    Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HH
    imp.i114863.net/rm1v3
    Radius Gauge with slots
    stewmac.sjv.io/15JN59
    Fret Rocker
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    Precision Notched Straightedge
    stewmac.sjv.io/Ea7Na2
    The Music Nomad gauge I use
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    Digital Caliper
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    Digital Multimeter
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    Nyon test Socks
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    Clip On Tuner in this video
    imp.i114863.net/RyVm3b
    My Favorite set up tools
    stewmac.sjv.io/RyQ2nX
    Fender 65 Deluxe Reverb
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    Friedman Dirty Shirley Mini head
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    Engl Fireball 25 is now at Sweetwater
    imp.i114863.net/Ry1Pkv
    Keeley Caverns Reverb Delay pedal
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    Snark tuner
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 2,7 тис.

  • @ronthorn7299
    @ronthorn7299 4 роки тому +2903

    Thanks for the chat Phillip and thank you for so many kind comments!

    • @christianolmeda
      @christianolmeda 4 роки тому +127

      RON THORN I learned more from your appearance in this channel than I have from droves of UA-cam guitar videos in the last year. Thank you!

    • @MK-oz2lf
      @MK-oz2lf 4 роки тому +33

      I've watched this video three times. Hope all goes well with your class later this year.

    • @MrTrendkill2
      @MrTrendkill2 4 роки тому +27

      I think you taught all of us something, fantastic!

    • @oafguitars3136
      @oafguitars3136 4 роки тому +19

      Great video! Thanks Ron

    • @NolanZewariligon
      @NolanZewariligon 4 роки тому +55

      This was very heartwarming. What a wholesome sight, an expert luthier enjoying guitars regardless of the price.

  • @adambrown6930
    @adambrown6930 4 роки тому +1559

    Love to see someone that is a master of their craft be that down to earth and unpretentious! No snobbery or BS. That guy really represented Fender well!

    • @ronthorn7299
      @ronthorn7299 4 роки тому +106

      Adam Brown Thanks, Adam!

    • @LookingForEntertainment112
      @LookingForEntertainment112 4 роки тому +29

      @Adam Brown That's how all the proper/great luthiers I've met are. They're usually very zen, humble and LOVE their craft.

    • @insaneinthebrain1978
      @insaneinthebrain1978 4 роки тому +15

      Supercool Dude!
      Dont miss that T. R. A. I. N. 10:05

    • @nickcoulter973
      @nickcoulter973 4 роки тому +16

      I agree... Fender is well represented when Ron Thorn is interviewed. It makes me trust that the brand is actually focused on understanding what makes an instrument good. That’s certainly not the case with, ahem... some other brands.

    • @matthewcarroll5047
      @matthewcarroll5047 4 роки тому +13

      I could listen to Ron talk about fenders all day.

  • @teddydavis3504
    @teddydavis3504 4 роки тому +639

    An old adage: You’re a pro if you can explain it to another pro, but you’re a master if you can explain it to anyone.
    You can tell, this guy is a master.

    • @ronthorn7299
      @ronthorn7299 4 роки тому +40

      Teddy Davis Thank you, Teddy!

    • @tomterry2662
      @tomterry2662 2 роки тому

      @Bag you can like them. They are for people who are learning. Then later get the fender.

    • @shawnshipstad9281
      @shawnshipstad9281 2 роки тому +1

      I agree, he seems like a genuine person.

    • @DaveTaste
      @DaveTaste 2 роки тому

      I've been trying to tell people this for years.

    • @kurdtjohn
      @kurdtjohn Рік тому +1

      They don’t call him Master Builder for nothing.

  • @aleks2194
    @aleks2194 4 роки тому +318

    His enthusiasm is so pure, they gotta give this guy more screen time cuz he's making fender look really good

    • @SM-dt1pr
      @SM-dt1pr 2 роки тому +8

      Ha! He's making Squier look too good!

  • @priyonjoni
    @priyonjoni 4 роки тому +670

    We got a Brian May fan in the store noodling away.

    • @kaspersloth5099
      @kaspersloth5099 4 роки тому +20

      Finally somebody who wrote it XD

    • @truthxbl
      @truthxbl 4 роки тому

      😂

    • @TheAngmarwitch
      @TheAngmarwitch 4 роки тому +11

      hehe 10:53

    • @BassOutcast
      @BassOutcast 4 роки тому +9

      Also notice when he's playing the blue one in the end, there's a guitar that looks like a Red Special replica on his right

    • @josephhutchins8
      @josephhutchins8 4 роки тому +18

      You hear him play Whole Lotta Love too?

  • @RockmannMusic
    @RockmannMusic 4 роки тому +599

    The Fender company very well & positive represented, super likeable guy

    • @BillDerBerg
      @BillDerBerg 4 роки тому +4

      Has Scholz Research & Development sued you guys for copyright infringement yet?

    • @RockmannMusic
      @RockmannMusic 4 роки тому +6

      @@BillDerBerg Well, smart arse. Different spelling & our family business name is 100 years older anyways

    • @ryanbazail
      @ryanbazail 4 роки тому +20

      can't say the same about Gibson these days lmao

    • @TJRatfink
      @TJRatfink 4 роки тому +2

      Ron seems a good guy and has valuable input. where is your store located?

    • @johnjarmsen9754
      @johnjarmsen9754 4 роки тому

      he can rock with joe carducci

  • @slowcuber309
    @slowcuber309 4 роки тому +479

    ‘Lots of colours and choices to pick from’
    Hysterically laughs in left handed

    • @LittleGenevieve
      @LittleGenevieve 4 роки тому +15

      do you mean 'cries'

    • @crsantin
      @crsantin 4 роки тому +29

      We get black

    • @kobepowell8752
      @kobepowell8752 4 роки тому +4

      Carlo Santin white and red is a blessing few brands can offer for such lefties

    • @templategaming275
      @templategaming275 4 роки тому +2

      Laughs in left handed, what does that mean , I think you meant laughs while being left handed

    • @danielcannon3511
      @danielcannon3511 4 роки тому +4

      I once taught a guy to play some guitar chords and progressions. I'm right handed, he was left handed. Just play right handed like my friend Fred did. It took him a few minutes but he eventually got the dexterity down.

  • @laa0fa502
    @laa0fa502 3 роки тому +206

    I think that dude was genuinely happy to see the company he works for building quiality affordable guitars... he's gonna be a squire master builder after this.

    • @JohnOShaughnessy
      @JohnOShaughnessy 2 роки тому +4

      yeah, I got that feeling too 😎👍

    • @dunebillydave222
      @dunebillydave222 7 місяців тому +1

      Or, he works for the company and part of his duties as a Principal Master Builder is to be an ambassador for Fender. So if he came right out and said "Jeez this thing is a stinking heap of horseshit!" it might not bode well for his career. Just a thought. Then again, he might really like the guitar.

    • @liquidsnake6879
      @liquidsnake6879 6 місяців тому

      having master builders defeats the whole purpose of Squier, Squier's master builders are metallic and work 24/7 for no pay lol

  • @aquasloth6832
    @aquasloth6832 4 роки тому +741

    Oh man, that T.R.A.I.N. tip is one of the best I’ve heard in a long time.

    • @peterzelaya9948
      @peterzelaya9948 4 роки тому +35

      Tune, relief, action, intonate, noodle right?

    • @aquasloth6832
      @aquasloth6832 4 роки тому +6

      Peter Zelaya I think that’s it, yeah! Great tip!

    • @kanealson5200
      @kanealson5200 4 роки тому +6

      Plus the word Orther, learned that was a word today too! 11:36. ( I'm assuming it means either/or ).

    • @daleykd
      @daleykd 4 роки тому

      Where does adjusting the nut fit into that?

    • @clamus68
      @clamus68 4 роки тому +6

      @@daleykd under Action.

  • @bjornwolf6653
    @bjornwolf6653 5 років тому +391

    What a nice Guy, who is having the most expensive Guitars in his Hands on a daily Basis and taking this low Cost Examples serious.
    Thumbs up.

    • @johnnybgood774
      @johnnybgood774 4 роки тому +5

      There only expensive when there finished

    • @QS-si3cq
      @QS-si3cq 4 роки тому +2

      @@johnnybgood774 *their and *their

    • @johnnybgood774
      @johnnybgood774 4 роки тому

      @@QS-si3cq thx for the spellchecking brother💪💪

    • @Calbuick666
      @Calbuick666 4 роки тому +19

      @@QS-si3cq *They're and *they're 😂

    • @cleawox
      @cleawox 4 роки тому +2

      I could see a seed planted here: where a young player buys a Squier and later in life splurges for a Custom Shop because they remembered this video.

  • @bstan565
    @bstan565 4 роки тому +205

    You can tell that Ron loves his job. He was so excited. Such a wholesome dude. Great vibes.

  • @LesAventuresDeTigRRe
    @LesAventuresDeTigRRe 4 роки тому +45

    I love how he doesn't really know what to say at the beginning and then just nerds away, sharing amazing tips and taste. 18 min felt like 4 mins. That's quality content right there.

  • @DanishingAct
    @DanishingAct 5 років тому +1510

    This guy was great. Fantastic video.

    • @cherrysunburst828
      @cherrysunburst828 5 років тому +75

      If this guy started a YT channel I'd definitely watch him, he must have tremendous knowledge of guitars

    • @aaronenix6418
      @aaronenix6418 4 роки тому +5

      @Dan K, yeah it was great. These two had a lot of chemistry.

    • @dariusbroughton3917
      @dariusbroughton3917 4 роки тому +12

      Ron Thorn is the man. I wanted one of his carved top telecasters before he joined Fender. One of the best luthiers on the planet.

    • @jbognap
      @jbognap 4 роки тому +13

      He's the Strat Whisperer

    • @dragonmodel9262
      @dragonmodel9262 4 роки тому +1

      True tone kings interview was great too.

  • @175epi
    @175epi 4 роки тому +354

    Truly enjoyed this: a guy who makes high-end guitars taking time to examine the kind of instruments I can afford, explaining what he's looking at, and sharing his enthusiasm. Very helpful, and fun to watch, too . . . thanks!

    • @mickb69
      @mickb69 4 роки тому +6

      Well said

  • @UnRealGoSho
    @UnRealGoSho 4 роки тому +12

    Fender should have this guy doing Fender of the Week. Where he just talks about modern and classic fenders for 20 minutes on there build, hardware and history. I'd pay money to listen 🤣

  • @joeybusnardo5866
    @joeybusnardo5866 4 роки тому +259

    16:11
    Philip: Ron, I want to thank you for doing this..
    Ron: Oh my pleas WH WHAT?!
    Philip: ....and,... what??
    Ron: Errwarwurr
    Philip: What?
    Ron: I WANT TO PLUG IT IN!
    Philip: Oh!
    Ron: I WANNA HEAR THIS THING!

    • @RCBandit25
      @RCBandit25 4 роки тому +3

      Greatest comment ever.

    • @mopanda81
      @mopanda81 3 роки тому +5

      it's a shame he couldn't compare the guitar he wanted some setup time with to the one he said was good to go off the wall

    • @danhworth100
      @danhworth100 3 роки тому +3

      That was my favourite part. And he said his baby is an 85 squire strat. Nice to see a master builder appreciating an entry level guitar.

    • @DzoniMakaroni
      @DzoniMakaroni 3 роки тому +2

      @@danhworth100 An 85 Squier is not entry. I have an 86 Squier Royal Contemporary Strat and I can easily say: It's better than 90% of Fenders. Factory USA pickups, a switch for each pickup, Fender Gotoh tuners, just amazing.
      Pro tip: If you want an amazing guitar for cheap, just buy a MIJ Squier

    • @donkanboy
      @donkanboy 3 роки тому +1

      Yeah that was an epic moment!

  • @kevinbarr7991
    @kevinbarr7991 5 років тому +231

    I like that this is a guy who could play ANY guitar in the world and give an accurate, valuable critique and he's geeking out over a Fender Contemporary.
    I get he idea he really loves guitars

    • @LowEndMarauder
      @LowEndMarauder 5 років тому +50

      You can't fake that kind of enthusiasm. When you come across people like this in any field, you can't help but be inspired or feel like they brightened up your day a bit.

    • @hopfrogg9599
      @hopfrogg9599 4 роки тому +27

      I like the fact that his #1 is a Squier. No pretense even though he's Fender's master builder.

    • @MrBladle
      @MrBladle 4 роки тому +8

      @@hopfrogg9599 I also loved that the video was about to finish but he wanted to play the guitar first!

    • @euge1210
      @euge1210 4 роки тому +2

      @@hopfrogg9599 I own a 1985 Squier Strat like the one he´s talking about (a MIJ ´57 style, black basswood body and maple neck/freatboard), changed the tunning pegs and replace the original pickups with Alnico V ones, It´s been my favourite axe for many years too.

    • @Mikenperu
      @Mikenperu 4 роки тому +1

      I like that he can understand people have constraints. He worked with what he was given.

  • @redcomn
    @redcomn 5 років тому +317

    I like his approach on choosing guitar.
    Neck feel is extremely important

    • @joebodynobody764
      @joebodynobody764 5 років тому +10

      Agreed. However, I've found that different feeling necks can make you play differently. Sometimes that's a good thing, sometimes not. I myself like variety.

    • @redcomn
      @redcomn 5 років тому +5

      @@joebodynobody764 agree tho most of the times it's the pickup that made all the change.
      I tend to choose what felt good in my hand regardless of the profile hence why i never buy geetah online.
      All his assessment were spot on tho.

    • @xfallofmanx
      @xfallofmanx 4 роки тому +2

      When I was younger I really only cared what the guitar looked like. Now that I’ve played for a while and been through some guitars, I don’t give a crap about that. I ONLY care about how that neck/fretboard interact with my hand and the “sound” the guitar has overall. If I go with a Tele or Strat I want that sound. (I used to be a Gibson guy but I’ve slowly made my way to the Fender preferences....after the video Gibson put out the other day threatening literally everyone who uses a Gibson guitar to make music, I’ve sworn them off.)

    • @FrecklesOpenMic
      @FrecklesOpenMic 4 роки тому +4

      @@goshdarntootin why aren't we talking about the mouth feel?

    • @adamredmer
      @adamredmer 4 роки тому +4

      @@xfallofmanx what video are you talking about? I'd be very interested to see that.

  • @johngaudesi521
    @johngaudesi521 4 роки тому +11

    This man is the real deal. Unbelievably talented, dedicated, kind and humble. One in a million.
    A music industry legend in the works.
    JG 😺🙏🏻

  • @bookemdanno5596
    @bookemdanno5596 3 роки тому +181

    You heard it here. A Fender Master Builder's #1 guitar in his collection is his Squier. Just goes to show you that you don't need a $3000 (or even $1000) guitar to sound great. Eat your heart out, guitar snobs!

    • @flatline42
      @flatline42 3 роки тому +8

      My pop did a project a few years ago where he rebuilt Clapton's Blackie basically from a squire and it sounds really great. Probably doubled the cost of the guitar but it sounds like it's a lot more expensive than it was.

    • @Ironworthstriking
      @Ironworthstriking 2 роки тому +6

      True. Though 85 squiers are at another level

    • @LucaLindemann
      @LucaLindemann 2 роки тому +7

      @@Ironworthstriking exactly Tyler. Infact, the japanese 80s Squier/Fender instruments are superb and they got their own "vintage" market and history. I had several Jazz Bass from the late 80s and 90s: they're terrific instruments that can't be compared that much with the Indonesian or Chinese lately made (that are indeed good instruments for the price).

    • @mattwilliam4803
      @mattwilliam4803 2 роки тому +1

      @@LucaLindemann -how's an Indonesian '04 ?

    • @gutsrage9616
      @gutsrage9616 2 роки тому +7

      Adding parts does not up the value of a guitar 🎸 $100 dollar guitar with a $1000 bucks in parts is still a $100 guitar even if you try to sell it BUT it does add enjoyment to the player which in my opinion is priceless did the same to mine totally worth it 😃

  • @chrisriceca
    @chrisriceca 4 роки тому +60

    That dude playing the whole lotta love solo in the back ground nailed it.

    • @72dodge340
      @72dodge340 3 роки тому +3

      Yeah, that was sweet. Funny, I read this comment right as he started tearing into it.

  • @GeoZero
    @GeoZero 5 років тому +236

    Phillip, this is the best video you've made. The Fender dude is awesome.

  • @docdoc8556
    @docdoc8556 Рік тому +11

    The interview was close to being ended and Ron had to keep it going because he was genuinely interested in how the guitar sounded. Imagine that, THE MASTER at fender being excited by an entry level model. Its hard to find people as talented as this and still have a passion like this guy has, a real credit to Fender. One day i hope to have a masterbuilt by him, hopefully hes still at fender in a decade when ive saved enough for it haha

  • @archierival6678
    @archierival6678 3 роки тому +34

    Definitely need more Ron Thorn on UA-cam. That was great.

  • @aliveandfit
    @aliveandfit 4 роки тому +202

    Great video highlighting a master builder saying a Squier can be a very playable and enjoyable guitar. Some of the comments on this video are mind blowing.

    • @tomterry2662
      @tomterry2662 2 роки тому

      Yea their mind blowing alright.

  • @foadrightnow5725
    @foadrightnow5725 5 років тому +260

    Awesome video, Phil! Very enlightening, for sure! For a $350 guitar to put that kind of smile on a master luthier really speaks volumes as to its overall build quality and setup!

    • @foadrightnow5725
      @foadrightnow5725 4 роки тому +33

      @Everything - I don't think he's "doing it for the camera...obviously"! He seems genuine about his impressions of the guitar. Especially considering the price point. He's used to dealing(and building) with guitars that cost ten times as much and more. And I don't think he's going to burn bridges with anyone giving his honest opinion of a guitar, be it good OR bad! Cheers!

    • @darkus2015
      @darkus2015 4 роки тому +18

      The guy is very genuine. You dont become master being fake.

    • @foadrightnow5725
      @foadrightnow5725 4 роки тому +29

      @Everything - Sucks even more to be a cynical hater!

    • @johnnybgood774
      @johnnybgood774 4 роки тому +1

      @Everything facts ...when there is money involved

    • @Cerberus4982
      @Cerberus4982 4 роки тому +1

      Everything - yeah I was thinking, what if he said “I would NEVER play this. Hate that bridge” lol

  • @jordanfender3085
    @jordanfender3085 3 роки тому +39

    Ron is an example to follow what you love. This guy looks so happy and healthy and u can tell he’s doing what he’s passionate about. And thank you so much Phillip, I’m on a binge of your content!!

  • @jtblackwell7462
    @jtblackwell7462 4 роки тому +14

    that smile on his face when he plugged in was great.

  • @kc117mx
    @kc117mx 4 роки тому +345

    That guy has forgotten more than I will ever know about guitars.

  • @jokkon13
    @jokkon13 4 роки тому +112

    I love how happy he was. Once hes plugged it into the amp... LOVE IT

  • @kennyleejohnson5253
    @kennyleejohnson5253 4 роки тому +20

    Great video guys. I’m really amazed at how impressed a Master builder is of a $350. Guitar. Shows the quality Squire is putting into their products.

  • @samunden
    @samunden 4 роки тому +12

    Love the TRAIN acronym for setups...I'll remember that forever!

  • @stephenchow5161
    @stephenchow5161 4 роки тому +57

    ron thorn is an a plus person period.
    ive interacted with him way back when he was a custom builder under his own brand.
    always gracious
    i feel lucky to have known him.

    • @ronthorn7299
      @ronthorn7299 4 роки тому +14

      Stephen Chow Hey Stephen! Great seeing you at NAMM, thanks for the kind words.

  • @avielkharrat5788
    @avielkharrat5788 5 років тому +120

    Super nice! It's amaising to see this Fender MASTER builder getting so excited on a guitar, and especially on a low cost one.
    This teaches me something : when you know your business, you don't need "labels" to be happy with the gear you get.

    • @MacPro8CoreMan
      @MacPro8CoreMan 4 роки тому +8

      You are correct... And the point that his #1 guitar is an old Squire tells a lot about what's really important to him. He could build anything he wants, and these inexpensive little gems put a smile on his face.

    • @RWulff007
      @RWulff007 4 роки тому

      Yep, know your gear 😁😋

  • @RichardGarcia93
    @RichardGarcia93 Рік тому +2

    Ron Thorn’s enthusiasm is infectious!

  • @jhagenseker
    @jhagenseker 3 роки тому +5

    I love how he’s been playing so long, and works with guitars daily, and still gets so giddy about playing gear. I love this community.

  • @suereed
    @suereed 4 роки тому +59

    I think we could all listen to Ron Thorn for three hours straight. Really really good video Phil.

  • @kenhall6525
    @kenhall6525 5 років тому +153

    At 10:50, someone is jamming to Queen lol
    Great video, cool dude too

    • @PhillipMcKnight
      @PhillipMcKnight  5 років тому +35

      It is Kifr Ochaion. He is a amazing player. ua-cam.com/video/vgxEQieRWAI/v-deo.html

    • @firefist8511
      @firefist8511 5 років тому +10

      He plays Zepplin after that.

    • @glumpy6079
      @glumpy6079 4 роки тому +1

      Love it

    • @AngusNB
      @AngusNB 4 роки тому +1

      @@PhillipMcKnight I had not heard Kifr before.
      Great first example. Thanks, my ears enjoyed that. 😃

    • @mrslugboy1
      @mrslugboy1 4 роки тому +2

      there's a Red Special in the amp room

  • @semiografo
    @semiografo 4 роки тому +29

    "Ohhh! Quacky!" 😁
    That's what a real strat player look for.

  • @rogerledoux4741
    @rogerledoux4741 4 роки тому +7

    First time I have seen someone not like the classic vibe but to each his own

    • @sugarlife485
      @sugarlife485 4 роки тому

      classic vibe is just ok way overrated

    • @rogerledoux4741
      @rogerledoux4741 4 роки тому +1

      @@sugarlife485 with all due respect that's your opinion and I disagree. Now as the price keeps going up on it yes there will be a point it is no longer good for the money you pay. But at it current price point it not only good its great.

  • @danmar007
    @danmar007 5 років тому +195

    I want Fender to build me a $5000 custom and put Squier on it. :)

    • @GrimYak
      @GrimYak 5 років тому +51

      in some cases a high end squier is better than a low end strat. in some rare cases the lower end product sometimes beat the mother brand, just ask Epiphone and Gibson :)

    • @gunhedd5375
      @gunhedd5375 5 років тому +16

      Jay G • Case in point: I have an 08/09(?) Epiphone Elitist 335 I bought in 09; as good or better than any production Gibson 335 I’ve seen. (Have had at least 3 out-of-the-blue offers over the years.) I also have an AmStd Tele and a PRS 25th Anniversary Mira yet the Epi is my favorite. I will never get rid of this guitar. 😎

    • @paulpennington6492
      @paulpennington6492 5 років тому +1

      Damn!!! You WIN BEST COMMEMT AWARD! PLUS free trip to Customer Shop. Ooops, were out of plushies.
      And the shop is on vacation. X2 oops.

    • @danmar007
      @danmar007 5 років тому +3

      @Paul Pennington You had me happy and sad inside 3 seconds!

    • @paulpennington6492
      @paulpennington6492 4 роки тому +1

      @@danmar007 Wow for 3 whole {record!! 😊} seconds... I'll have to aim for happy or,
      Elated-to- near-nirvana-state
      I can do it in 4 tho...

  • @keithbirdsong1036
    @keithbirdsong1036 5 років тому +106

    It’s hard to get access to these people. Great job. This is high quality content!

  • @zb5715
    @zb5715 4 роки тому +30

    THE Fender Custom Shop builder’s #1 is a Squier, let that sink in

    • @howdydoughty7634
      @howdydoughty7634 4 роки тому +2

      Z Bob weren’t they made in Japan back in the 80’s my teach had one sounded amazing, set up with 11’s too I’ll never forget it.

    • @jimmyjakes1823
      @jimmyjakes1823 4 роки тому +3

      @@howdydoughty7634 Yeah, they were. If we're going by averages I'd take an 80's MIJ Squier over an American standard. They were a massive bargain about 10-15 years ago but now they go for the same or more as MIA Fender.

    • @laussethecat
      @laussethecat 4 роки тому +1

      A MIJ squier worth over a grand, yes.

    • @keithschneidly3922
      @keithschneidly3922 3 роки тому

      Pretty sure any MIJ Fender was only made a short while. I thought the Squier Affinities were Indonesian and the plain Squiers were GasP Chinese.

  • @gavinaston5716
    @gavinaston5716 4 роки тому +1

    Without a DOUBT my favorite KYG video. Ron is the BEST Fender salesman I have ever seen. Honest, cool guy, loves him some Fenders! Thanks Ron, you are a great interview. Awesome video.

    • @customshopbacktalk2026
      @customshopbacktalk2026 4 роки тому +1

      gavin aston Thank you!
      Wait....”salesman”?!?!
      I just make ‘em. ;)

    • @gavinaston5716
      @gavinaston5716 4 роки тому

      @@customshopbacktalk2026 Salesman as in your LOVE the Stratocaster shows on your face and makes the rest of us love and desire those guitars from just watching and listening to you. You make them better than anyone and your love what you do sells them. I have a BEAUTIFUL American 1986+/- Strat that has but mods. Fender locking tuners and Fender Custom Shop 69 pickups. I've played guitar for 45 years and have Les Paul's, a 68 ES 335, a PRS, and some vintage 1966 Hagstroms among others but my blonde Stratocaster is the love of my life! Thank you for all you have done to keep the Fender brand alive and kicking from the 1950's until today.

  • @juanadames3312
    @juanadames3312 5 років тому +51

    What a down to earth guitar guru. I love Ron's vibe! One of your best UA-cam posts.

  • @iglehart332
    @iglehart332 4 роки тому +101

    He's like WTF your not gonna let me plug it in! I wanna plug it in! Hahaha

  • @johnvcougar
    @johnvcougar 4 роки тому +10

    That cat in the background playing Brian May and Jimmy Page solos got some chops!

  • @annieetc.563
    @annieetc.563 3 роки тому +33

    did the fender master builder just say that his number one guitar is a squire strat? that's rad

    • @bobleonard9358
      @bobleonard9358 3 роки тому +1

      But an '85 is not a run-of-the-mill Squire. It would have been nice to see one of these guys point this out.

    • @annieetc.563
      @annieetc.563 3 роки тому +8

      @@bobleonard9358 mij squire’s certainly were a higher level of quality than the ones that came after sure, but my point is that he’s not a gear snob which is pretty cool.

  • @holotape
    @holotape 4 роки тому +50

    10:47 Brian May is in the background wailing away

  • @redrider0151
    @redrider0151 4 роки тому +90

    Its AWESOME to see Ron chattign away!!! For those that know him.....this is EXACTLY how he is with everyone he ever meets....nicest guy on the entire planet, BAR NONE!!! Awesome to see him at the pillar of success, he deserves it like no other!

  • @kevinmorris7722
    @kevinmorris7722 4 роки тому +2

    Very cool to hear a maker talk about what he's looking for.
    Perfect. Thanks.

  • @JJames666male
    @JJames666male 2 роки тому

    8:47 I love how he gets SUPER excited about how well the nut is spaced

  • @FloridaManMatty
    @FloridaManMatty 4 роки тому +910

    There’s a certain Fender competitor that could learn a lot from videos like this. Rather than threaten their base, Fender has gone and turned one of their guys loose and *gasp* he’s just a regular guitar geek like the rest of us, not some cork sniffing, elitist douche nozzle.
    You hear that Gibson? That’s the sound of your market share taking yet another nosedive.

    • @FloridaManMatty
      @FloridaManMatty 4 роки тому +145

      ROCCO SMURF More disappointment than hatred. Gibson needs to get back to making the best guitars around, not putting all that energy and capital into being a “lifestyle” company. Gibson and Harley Davidson are going the way of the Dodo and the execs are doing fuck all to sort it out. It’s just a shame.

    • @benjaminbarrera214
      @benjaminbarrera214 4 роки тому +29

      @ROCCO SMURF For me, disgust more than hatred. In the early to mid-90s, they were pretty cool but they've gone crazy since then. Fortunately I'm not a Gibson person so I really don't care how much they exploit their customers. Go capitalism!

    • @CyberSoulLover
      @CyberSoulLover 4 роки тому +8

      ROCCO SMURF price gouging? How?? They are literally the exact same price as other guitars

    • @drieslambrecht8611
      @drieslambrecht8611 4 роки тому +6

      @@CyberSoulLover They've gotten their act together with the 2019 line in terms of pricing. But before that with the other CEO pricepoints were way too high.

    • @ZIGSVIDS
      @ZIGSVIDS 4 роки тому +2

      @@benjaminbarrera214 They go back that far do they ?
      Gibson on It's worse day kicks Fenders ass.

  • @andyinwards2119
    @andyinwards2119 4 роки тому +90

    If it's possible to do more of this kind of thing with other master builders at Fender, Gibson etc. that would be great. Thanks Phil.

    • @djm.6322
      @djm.6322 4 роки тому +13

      Gibson would just sue him for using their name in a video. Hell I'm surprised they haven't sued you and I for using their name.

    • @Wells306
      @Wells306 4 роки тому +5

      @@djm.6322 In that case, do PRS. They've already dealt with the G****n crap.

    • @djm.6322
      @djm.6322 4 роки тому +1

      @@Wells306 Yeah lol I've got no idea what they're up to over there but I don't think it's working and they're just ruining their already bad reputation. Which is a shame really, although it has created some entertaining content (especially the Spectre Sound Studios parody of their video)!

    • @brogoram
      @brogoram 4 роки тому +1

      u want a master from Gibson to do this? He will lose his job and maybe get a lawsuit letter from Gibson's lawyer.

    • @aheartthrob
      @aheartthrob 4 роки тому

      Gibson wouldn't dare. While there's a noticeable difference between Fenders and Squiers, a Squier is a solid, fun to play guitar that sounds pretty damn decent, although the electronics (solder maybe?) can get a bit finicky after a year or so.
      OTOH Epiphone Les Paul necks are like playing a baseball bat, at least last time I played one. The tone was a bit too dark as well IIRC.

  • @joegalford2319
    @joegalford2319 2 роки тому +2

    I like that dude. Seeing him still enjoying guitars after working on them for so many years is really cool.

  • @DerekLand
    @DerekLand 2 роки тому +6

    This is one of the best guitar tuning/setup/etc videos on UA-cam. I continue to come back and review. Basic for some, but there's a lot of solid info in here. Congrats to you Phil for this.

    • @Rompler_Rocco
      @Rompler_Rocco Рік тому

      You took the words out of my mouth! Just yesterday I found myself running through "T.R.A.I.N." in my mind- Woah, wait a sec! But I never _said_ it!! 😳
      🤔 It was only a *thought* !! And now suddenly it's back in my feed?? What IS this algorithm?!?!

  • @-Thunder
    @-Thunder 4 роки тому +100

    I feel a lot better about loving my Affinity now. :-)
    Plus TRAIN and Carnuba Wax. Great Video!

    • @The_Fat_Turtle
      @The_Fat_Turtle 4 роки тому +11

      I wish there weren't gear snobs out there, but you can't convince them that a cheaper guitar can sound and play well, it's either top of the line American Fender or nothing at all for some. This guy is the dude who builds their dream guitars and even he loves the cheap Squiers.

    • @ApolloTchize
      @ApolloTchize 4 роки тому

      @@The_Fat_Turtle There are others as well. I own some custom shops from Fender and Gibson and still think, Squiers (or Epiphones) are great guitars you can easily choose to gig with. But I'd never exchange my babies. There is much more to a custom shop guitar TO ME (apart from being build with love and an acceptable salary than from a machine and people working their ass of for a few bucks). Handmade never meant being better in every way. But it is and always will be more expensive.
      Put it this way: A watch for 5 Dollar might do its job better than a Rolex, but put some enthusiasm and / or heritage, love or whatever you are up to into it and you'll buy the Rolex (which I wouldn't, as I am not into watches, but I understand the difference).
      You can love a Squier and it IS a guitar you can easily live with for the rest of your life playing fantastic music. Whatever idiot tells something different is ... just that. *lol*

    • @luizspindola
      @luizspindola 4 роки тому

      I've never played a bad affinity. I'm sure they exist but the overall feel is great. They're the entry series and people say they would be the worst... But I fell like they simplify everything on the guitar to make it easier to play for beginners

  • @Pokey7317
    @Pokey7317 5 років тому +66

    Hey Phil as a fellow Squire lover myself and as much as your videos have helped me. THIS IS BY FAR THE COOLEST VIDEO. Great idea to have a guy like that pick an affordable guitar. AWESOME and keep up the good work...

  • @zazoomatt
    @zazoomatt 4 роки тому +2

    Ron you made me appreciate my first & 2nd Fender squires MORE . Learned how to set them up and work them ! Phillip you nailed this Guys.........Thanks....

  • @335pd
    @335pd 4 роки тому +6

    THIS IS ABSOLUTELY EXCELLENT! Thank you for doing this!!!

  • @acidburn_
    @acidburn_ 4 роки тому +41

    Super enthusiastic I bet this man absolutely loves his job.

  • @larryward2347
    @larryward2347 5 років тому +8

    As a guitarist of over 30 years it was amazing to see what's important to a master builder. Great video!!!

  • @miccurlvlog8039
    @miccurlvlog8039 Місяць тому

    I REALLY LOVE THE HONESTY IN THIS!

  • @alexandercook9614
    @alexandercook9614 3 роки тому +3

    The guitar he picked is the squire contemporary HSS Strat which I have wanted for over a year now. It used to be $279 a year ago now it’s that price point on the used market.

  • @leoh1885
    @leoh1885 4 роки тому +29

    Man, I hope this guy thinks about releasing some videos through Fender's channel, he is really great
    Thanks Phil!

  • @TruthSurge
    @TruthSurge 4 роки тому +128

    affinity is made in Indonesia. If you get a good one, they are really butter to play. The frets are rounded and the satin finish and higher radius makes it a really sweet ride. I bought a new one at a pawn shop and had no idea what it was other than a strat style cheapo but I played it and it was just all about that fretboard. The pickups sound decent. Doesn't stay in tune well enough, tho. no idea about those other two.

    • @collecter3456
      @collecter3456 3 роки тому +7

      Mine is made in china, and is the orange one they showed in the video. and it is very close to a real strat. It is just a little bit slimmer body and neck wise.

    • @nealdewar9959
      @nealdewar9959 3 роки тому +2

      Mine is made in China too the neck on mine is as good as it can be. Im very happy with it. 👍

    • @cakenbolls442
      @cakenbolls442 3 роки тому +1

      @@collecter3456 if it's made in China, it's probably old stock. Btw mine's also China made

    • @CyberneticArgumentCreator
      @CyberneticArgumentCreator 3 роки тому +3

      Ironic, guitars from this part of the world were utter shit in the 90s. I guess they got their factories tightened up over there.

    • @OperaVanDubels
      @OperaVanDubels 3 роки тому +4

      @@CyberneticArgumentCreator I'm from Indonesia, and I think they already have good enough experience cause they have been working for decades since the 90s

  • @JM_utube
    @JM_utube 3 роки тому +3

    he's a master builder, top of the food chain at fender, knows just about everything there is to know about guitars, and still starts narrowing it down by pretty colors and looks :)

  • @imyourmutter
    @imyourmutter 4 роки тому

    What a great watch! Entertaining and educational. I love how this shows to true joy of finding a good instrument!

  • @bluesborn
    @bluesborn 4 роки тому +31

    Phil you should definitely have Ron back on the show and ideally (from my perspective at least)make him a regular feature. (once a week or every 2 weeks maybe?) You guys have a great rapport, both of you being easy going, witty and of course sharing a love of guitar like the rest of us maniacs. The useful info that came up in just one segment was quite impressive. More please.

  • @bikeboysyd292
    @bikeboysyd292 4 роки тому +17

    Ron just loves guitars. Great to see him excited about a Squire when he works with the best of the best

  • @Jecool242
    @Jecool242 4 роки тому +3

    What a great guy, so enthusiastic and energetic about guitars! Really nice to see!

  • @whatsup9260
    @whatsup9260 4 роки тому +3

    getting back into guitar and your appearance was super informative. great energy in this interview. thank you so much.

  • @JagaegII
    @JagaegII 5 років тому +17

    I’ve got a “Factory Special” Indonesian Affinity Strat, and there’s just something about it that makes it feel sooo good to play. Better than some other guitars twice the cost. Honestly blown away

    • @KyLesCaster
      @KyLesCaster 4 роки тому +3

      if it stays in tune, doesnt buzz all over the neck, and feels good in the hands, its a winner in my books, no matter what logo is on the headstock.

    • @FlowtnWitWalden
      @FlowtnWitWalden 4 роки тому

      I have one or two Indonesian Ibanez's that play just fine too!

  • @SeanFication
    @SeanFication 4 роки тому +15

    "The neck feel is the most important, and that's very personal' ..... That seems like the important point to all this, much of what makes a good guitar comes down to personal taste. Some people like a big, thick, wide neck and some people don't, and there is no right or wrong answer to which is best, it's which is best for you. You could even say the same about tone .... one persons "Too bright" will be someone elses "Just right".

  • @davids9192
    @davids9192 4 роки тому +1

    Superb video. No one can argue with an assessment made by Ron Thorn. Squier bashers should take note.

  • @drjwbriand
    @drjwbriand 4 роки тому

    thanks guys, best squier comp i've seen-very helpful!

  • @sirena7116
    @sirena7116 5 років тому +53

    He picked the exact same guitar that I have. I installed some graph tech stuff, but otherwise it’s stock.

    • @hopfrogg9599
      @hopfrogg9599 4 роки тому +1

      Putting in graphtech saddles was the best upgrade I made to my Squier.

    • @giltyakhtar
      @giltyakhtar 4 роки тому

      You got this guitar in 2017?

    • @sirena7116
      @sirena7116 4 роки тому

      Akhtar Zamil Sirajudeen I think so.

    • @AdamSJarrett
      @AdamSJarrett 4 роки тому +1

      @@hopfrogg9599 in what way did the Graphtech saddles help? I've been having tuning issues with my Tele and I was thinking that maybe the saddles might be the culprit. They just seem unstable and lean unevenly from side to side.

    • @hopfrogg9599
      @hopfrogg9599 4 роки тому

      @@AdamSJarrett For me it got rid of the "jangle" sound it was making with the cheap pot metal saddles. That's about it, but it made a huge difference.

  • @Synic42
    @Synic42 4 роки тому +14

    This was such an entertaining and informative video. Nice to see how a master luthier can be so excited by a Squier. The quality is indeed so outstanding compared to 30 years ago.

  • @sarahgregory9502
    @sarahgregory9502 4 роки тому +6

    Ron Thorn is a national treasure. This video is awesome.

  • @miketurnbull7410
    @miketurnbull7410 3 роки тому +1

    Brilliant piece, thank you. What a lovely man Ron is - so open and helpful. I learned a lot.

  • @charleshultquist9233
    @charleshultquist9233 4 роки тому +33

    What a kool guy! So down to earth and unassuming....not a snob. Great vid! I'd love to see a similar vid with Squier basses.

  • @HeadRoaster
    @HeadRoaster 4 роки тому +3

    what an amazing ambassador for Fender!! Don't get me wrong, Phil, you're awesome and I've learned an amazing amount from your channel, but keep this guy coming back for guest spots!

  • @tellmestraight
    @tellmestraight 4 роки тому

    Great job you two. Appreciate the enthusiasm.

  • @andygranatelli8809
    @andygranatelli8809 4 роки тому +3

    What a cool dude. Love that he first did a visual on the colors and then the deep dive. I absolutely love the first two.

  • @jimmarinella9455
    @jimmarinella9455 4 роки тому +10

    Can't say enough. This is how PR is done. Great video

  • @marioa19
    @marioa19 5 років тому +3

    Damn what an AWESOME video!!! Ron Thorn needs his own channel!!! I was jumping up and down when he started describing his #1 guitar. A 1985 Squier Strat! I've owned a Squier Telecaster since 1985 that I love as well. Great job as always Phil!!

    • @skillracoonful
      @skillracoonful 5 років тому

      I remembered reading from somewhere that 80s Squier guitars were basically made of American parts assembled in Japan. Is this true? If it is, then I can see why!

    • @marioa19
      @marioa19 4 роки тому

      @@skillracoonful Well I had never heard that detail specifically but I can tell you that last year I decided to paint and mod my Squier with "brand" pickups and a new paint job. I took it to 3 local luthiers who wanted to charge upwards of $1000 for the mods. I got spooked and decided to sloooowly do the work myself using youtube as a guide. The pleasant surprise is that ALL 3 shops gave my beat up little Squier great reviews. I was very surprised. The guys that own these places all used to play in bands and have recorded so I was expecting a little "attitude" when I showed up with my budget Tele but all 3 of them told me it was solid and that I could change out the Hardware and paint it but I wouldn't need new pickups. I sent it out to get painted (Kandy Grape Jelly Purple) so I'm waiting to get it back to see which PUPS Ill end up putting in it. It's fun but excruciatingly SLOW!!

  • @hunterlowe2470
    @hunterlowe2470 4 роки тому +1

    Like to see some down to earth people lkke Ron absolutely no bias or snobbery very good representative, keep doing what your doing man

  • @vasararh
    @vasararh 4 роки тому

    I had this video on Watch list since it came out. Beautiful conversation and so much data to process. Amazing work

  • @Riverdeepnwide
    @Riverdeepnwide 4 роки тому +42

    2:54 "Plum Crazy"
    Ron did you just reveal a car guy streak too?

    • @stuartbayliss9251
      @stuartbayliss9251 4 роки тому

      Fender used automotive paint back in the day.

    • @purplestuff
      @purplestuff 4 роки тому +3

      Ha! My brother used to own a '70 Super Bee in plum crazy purple.

    • @jperkins3642
      @jperkins3642 4 роки тому +2

      Ron is a huge car guy. If you look at some of his older (pre-Fender) Thorn builds, many were muscle car themed.

    • @deanmlshredder
      @deanmlshredder 4 роки тому +1

      I'm partial to the '70 R/T in "Grasshopper Green" myself.

  • @kevinsegurar
    @kevinsegurar 5 років тому +15

    Great video and a really nice guy! Thanks for the "TRAIN" tip!

  • @stevecloud
    @stevecloud 4 роки тому

    Love this... so refreshing to hear a seasoned guitar builder that's so down to earth.

  • @geraldhenrickson7472
    @geraldhenrickson7472 2 роки тому +1

    This makes me want a fender…something I have not experienced since the 80,s. Thanks guys!

  • @casperboo5465
    @casperboo5465 5 років тому +3

    Really great video Phill, thank you for sharing with us, and for your time, Cheers

  • @fransterhorst3694
    @fransterhorst3694 4 роки тому +27

    Learned something important from this : Train! thanks a million ! great stuff.

  • @corychang3901
    @corychang3901 3 роки тому

    Thank you for this video and for teaching us what to look for!

  • @troyshellhamer9964
    @troyshellhamer9964 3 роки тому

    This was such an entertaining video! Phillip seems very genuine. I love hearing honest reviews like this. Thanks!

  • @dpedrosoliano
    @dpedrosoliano 4 роки тому +121

    @11:31 in the background someone got the Whole Lotta Love solo down right 1st time in a guitar center , Sounds so damn good

    • @paulj0557tonehead
      @paulj0557tonehead 4 роки тому +5

      Good ear!

    • @Jecool242
      @Jecool242 4 роки тому

      Thank you, I was trying to remember which song it was!

    • @mikeroadblock
      @mikeroadblock 4 роки тому +3

      Queen too. Lol.

    • @Wardoshi
      @Wardoshi 4 роки тому +3

      my guess is that it was kfir ochaion. you can see him just casually walking in the background at 1:57. you can check him out in insta @kfiro

    • @geckobaldy
      @geckobaldy 4 роки тому

      Does that mean this vid could get taken down?

  • @jjim0437
    @jjim0437 4 роки тому +4

    Squiers are a great value these days, and with a few modifications you’ll have a very good instrument. This guy (a Fender master builder)seems genuinely blown away by them!

  • @vocalsg13
    @vocalsg13 4 роки тому +2

    What a great, genuine and kind man. Knows his job damn well too. An example to look up to.

  • @Steven_SK
    @Steven_SK 4 роки тому +1

    Truly one of the best videos I have seen in a while. It didn’t hurt that I was looking at a new Squier as we speak and the master builder was close enough to the Affinity that I want. Thanks!