I have a classic Vibe telecaster, amazing value for money. I haven't weighed mine, but it is a heavy weight compared to my Japanese Tele. I also find the tone of the Classic Vibe less appealing, less spangly, less twang. The neck was 95% right with only a slight height redress of a couple of frets. The chrome hardware tarnished very quickly, cheap. So if you wanted to make the Classic Vibe into a professional player's guitar, first get the neck right, change the tuning pegs, quality hardware, compensating saddles, change the pickups and electronics includeding cable socket, and lose some of that weight. You see, the money starts to build up, cheaper components and far east labour costs are why the Vibe is such good value. When you buy an American Tele, you are getting a guitar that should right straight out of the box, a guitar that will continue to give you pleasure for years to come. The Classic Vibe on the other hand soon makes clear it's shortcomings. A great guitar for customisation though. In the video I thought that both Tele's were slightly out of tune.
I bought a $200 Squier on offer at guitar center, the build quality is astonishing, even the electronics were good. The neck was particularly good. Dropped some Seymour Duncans in it and its even better. Like some others I think the Squier sounds brighter due to maple fingerboard. Great review John.
Yeah they’ve definitely upped their game these past few years. Seymour’s are a great idea. Thanks for watching. Appreciate it. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I generally preferred the sounds of A - particularly when dirty, where guitar B was less distinct or muddy if you will. With the cleans, although they sounded different from each other, I could toss a coin and be happy using either. Though I did prefer A.
Shows how crazy badge snobbery can be to an extent. I’m guilty of it though. Definitely gonna be getting plenty of use though and I also think it’s a testament to how good squiers have become as much as anything
I have been watching many guitar comparison videos, and it amazes me how indistinguishable a $200 guitar can be from a $2000 or more guitar. This phenomenon is really something for guitarists to be aware of when purchasing any guitar over $500 (or $200?). A great example is the GIbson SG ($1800) vs. the Epiphone SG ($500). Look at it this way, you could buy three Epiphone SGs, diff't colors to match your outfits, and still have money left over to upgrade the pickups in one of them instead of buying one Gibson so you can have the name Gibson on the head.
Definitely something to consider. It’s hard not to want nice things when they’re dangled in front of you but when the head does get to rile the heart there are some brilliant cheaper options as shown by tests like this. Our eyes really do rule in most cases. It’s made me look at things differently that’s for sure. Another example is the PRS silver sky vs se. I genuinely prefer the SE which is £499 at andertons over the core model which is £2k plus. Better sound, better neck too. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
The Classic Vibe series is a phenomenal value. I think what it comes down to is picking a great individual guitar from the CV stable. I’ve picked up light ones with no fret sprout and I’ve randomly picked up very heavy guitars or ones that could cut your hands while playing. None of that will happen when ordering one of Fender’s higher end guitars. I think if you can find a CV at a good weight with a proper neck and frets, then upgrade the wiring, pick ups, and tuners, which may cost 300-400 dollars, you can end up with a great guitar for a total investment of 600-800$ ( plus the time involved in finding the right guitar). It just won’t say Fender.
@@ParkourRhett I wondered that too but I’m sure one of you is correct. Hopefully people understood what I was getting at without upsetting anybody. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
B sounded better clean but A was better distorted to me. B’s distortion sound was very muffled and muddy. Better to get a classic vibe and use the savings to upgrade the pickups and electronics.
Instintically got it right! The Fender is a tad more subtle, but the Squier sounded great too. By the way, the best 'tele' i ever heard was an Indonesian model (Black & Chrome model)), loaded with Fender parts (changed everything on it,best of both worlds!), Take care and have a great new year!
Got two CV50 (a Danish Pete too)...and a USA Pro II. For the money AND better pups....go with the CV....I play them MORE than my USA but it's the Fralin/Lollars (and brass nut) that really bring out the magic. Neck is nicer on USA...a lot nicer...shape, texture, smoothness, fret job.
Yeah they are a steal for sure. Great to have these options available for all budgets nowadays. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
If the Squire has split-shaft tuners, then why do you need locking tuners? I have been playing Fenders since the early 60s. In all that time i have never had any tuning issues with the OEM tuners of that era. With the new shafts and that tiny little hole my tuning issues appeared. I have changed all my Strats and my Teles to split shaft drop-in replacements and never had a problem. Broken string replacement on a dark stage is rather difficult due to the "thread the needle" issue. All one needs is a cutter with a flat jaw, measure, bend a 90 degree and stick it in the slot. No more bloody fingers or puncture wounds.
Although I respect what you’re saying I don’t find that to be the case from my experiences personally. I prefer lockers far more and genuinely dislike that slot type. Each to their own buddy. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
Both were tuned each and every time before each sound clip using the same tuner. I don’t therefore know how that is possible in every clip. Maybe one sound bite but not all. Thanks for watching
And proud you should be. Brand name isn’t half as important as it used to be on guitars when the gulf of difference existed as nowadays all guitars are so much better than they used to be more so in the affordable ranges. Thanks for watching buddy and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I’m amazed as I love my CV teles but I was convinced guitar A was the fender, sounded better and sustained better on distorted sound and would completely expected the fender to have the better pick ups but wow. Of course the fender will have the better hardware overall but the classic vibes really are amazing value, if you prefer different pick ups stick some in, there’s nothing like the difference in price compared to the difference in quality, both exceptional instruments
Nice review. I watch reviews like this for fun. I generally agree with what you said in your review. I could tell which one was the Ulta in every sound clip. The ultra sounds better for sure. Seven times better... well no as you stated. You could swap pickups and probably get much closer. They sell USA pickups for about $100...such as Yosemite pickups which are killer... and warmer sounding than the ones on the squire. I've played cheap telecasters next to custom shop telecasters and didn't notice much of a difference in tone. With that said...if you have the cash I'd take the Ulta any day of the week. It's the coolest, sleekest, most beautiful telecaster that's ever been made. I've owned five telecasters...a squire affinity which was terrible sounding and playing, a CV 50's which was way better, an American performer, and American pro II, and now an ultra. The CV was surprisingly good but was way too bright sounding for my taste... and I could buy something used higher up the chain for the same price as swapping pickups and saddles. All three of my American telecasters were perfectly made... and sounded fantastic... just slightly different. My favorites are the performer and the ultra in terms of tone for my taste. The neck pickup is my favorite on the performer but I like the overdrive tone way more in the ultra. At the end of the day the cheaper squire teles are very good for the money but not on par with the ultra. It's like a Hyundai next to a Ferrari. Both good but the workmanship on the ultra is way finer. I actually think around $2,200 for a top of the line telecaster is a killer deal when compared to what you get from Gibson or PRS for that price. I connect guitars and the ultra is one of my cheapest guitars. I used to buy a lot of Asian made guitars and a lot of them were great.... sounded really good... though a lot of them looked and felt cheap in comparison to the USA ones I've had... but doesn't mean many of them won't do the job and do it very well.
Yeah I have a player Strat that I’ve put Texas specials on and it’s a superb guitar now. Thanks for watching buddy. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I am pretty sure in recent years Squire bodies are thinner than Fender USA which is probably where there is weight differences. If the Squier has cheap chrome plated potted steal that would also make it lighter than a American Fender with real steal.
Guitar B sounded better for the clean playing, but was muddy on the distorted playing. Could be the taper of the tone pot. I recently bought a made in Indonesia 70's Classic vibe Squire thinline tele (semi hollow body) with Fender designed wide range humbucker pickups, and can attest to the build quality of the Squire.
Yeah I agree with that summary. Thin line sounds good. I do like the look of those too. It’s so impressive how much Squier has upped their game in recent years. Thanks for watching buddy. Don’t forget to subscribe for more. Got an another video this week with another Squier model that I’ve just got hold of. Another interesting comparison too….
Sound A, the Squier has the better sounding bridge pickup. B the USA Fender has the better sounding neck and middle position blend. For a couple hundred bucks you could make the Squier into an absolute killer guitar just by changing the neck pickup, pots, switch, and tuners. Was the USA model properly tuned? Sounds a tad weird. I have five Teles in my harem here, (only one is a Fender, a genuine 52 year old 1972 model). My Fender sounds amazing, but I don't think it sounds necessarily better than the others, although it definitely holds together with higher gain amp settings better than three of them. The Fourth one has a set of EMG Active Tele pickups, so it also handles drive well. My other Teles are Two Fenix models, a Rockerbilly Custom made (With active EMGs) , and an Antonio Tsai Custom made.
I was thinking the same thing that nearly every guitarist could turn one of these squiers into a cracking guitar all in for under £500 that suits their personal taste and have a great workhorse. Crazy value really. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
Preferred guitar A overall actually, brighter and more articulate. More Fendery if you will. Yes, abit of a shocker at the reveal....then I remembered that the ultra had noiseless pickups, which I've never been overly impressed by. So it made sense after all 😅
Yeah surprised me how good the Squier was in comparison. Even to play it’s not as far off as you’d assume based on price. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I picked b as the dearer one but merely because a I thought sounded slightly harsher and buzzy in places and that’s it. (I have owned a couple of old vintage ones too). The difference sonically really is so small that it is negligible. There may be a big difference in the handling and appearance in person but for £299 the squire is a relative steal and great for you and your kids to learn on. The crappy pots and hardware can always be replaced if needed. All the top guitarists started on guitars far worse than either of these.
Good test, I preferred the definition of the cheap one. Back in the early 90's A friend had a Fender 25th anniversary strat. That thing was heavy, much more heavy as my 1989 USA strat (I still have) It had a huge sustain compared to my strat. To bad I could not find one back then. But weight does not say much, my Musicman Majesty is "small" and pretty light, but it has more sustain as my strat. It also has a lot more harmonics. I think the most important thing is the build quality if you plan to play it for many years. I had a squire in the 88 (I think it was even branded Fender but was made in Japan) within the warranty the body started to crack. They replaced it but I had no trust in it so I payed extra for a USA strat. I am curious what those Cheap Chinese models do over time regarding the wood. (warp or crack). But all these compares are mostly about the tone. Things I found to be different between guitars are things like how low can you set the action (right uniform shape of the neck), durability of the frets (Cheap Chineese metal or durable), is the wood stable (warping/cracks over time). How precise are the tuners (a good tuner gives you a very high precision, that is, turn a lot for a small change in pitch, versus, only looking at it makes it jump a whole note and it does not stay in tune. Quality of potentiometers. My strat pots are still perfect, replaced the ones in my as new looking 30 year old Samic 335 a few years ago because they where worn and crappy. Durability of nut and things like bridge/saddles (chromed durable the right way, or stainless steal, nickel etc)All things that are important long after you bought it.
See I always thought that heavier body was denser therefore sustained longer yet the whole industry says otherwise nowadays hence why custom shops are always lighter. I don’t understand the physics behind that but the industry seems adamant that lighter equals more sustain. Must be something to do with density. It’s widely accepted that’s the case by people with far more knowledge than me but I always had the same opinion as you. Yeah build quality matters but these squiers are surprisingly well made. As I said in the video the USA is definitely better but it’s hard to quantify as it’s definitely only 5-10% at a push so 7x the cost is hard to justify. Maybe 3-4x would be more applicable. Squiers used to be really poorly made and were literally doorstops or firewood but they’ve come on so much. Thanks for watching., the aim was to help people realise that if they have a limited budget they can still get a great guitar and be proud of it, not to say the fender isn’t better. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I thought similar sound to my untrained ear until the ambient sound, which I thought A was better. Insane to be that close with that price difference. Great vid John 🤘🤘
Soldly Guitar B was deeper, richer and more dynamic like the differnce between FHD and 4K in all the tests Like it isn't even close for me... Then again I'm a perfect poitcher, autistic, and have audio file grade ears. But both sounded great and I doudt most listeners whould ever notice the differnce.
It’s also a personal taste thing too though plus depends on what you’re looking for in a particular sound. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
That was pretty much my leaning although I could see how either could be used in either selection depending on song type and band mix also to be fair. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more. Got another coming up this week. Equally interesting
Except for the guy's accent and the fact he refers to prices in Pounds vs Dollars makes me believe he's in the UK not the USA. In which case the UK doesn't use 60Hz Cycle for AC electricity, they use 50Hz Cycle, so it was a 50Hz Cycle hum not 60Hz cycle hum you heard.
The normal giveaway is that the US Teles have a brighter tone which is something that I don´t like. I based my guess based on the neck pickup sound demo and was.... WRONG! The US Tele was darker than the Squier which is a surprise!
Yeah it’s definitely a surprise how great the Squier stands up. Testament to the quality out there for all budgets nowadays. We’re very lucky. When I started playing the squiers were a nightmare to play and sounded awful. Come on a lot. I think it’s due to the competition such as PRS SE line etc forcing Squier to up their game. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe as I have a new video out tomorrow you’ll be interested in I reckon. 🙏🏻👍🏻
@@johnoakleymusic I’ve listened to hundreds of different Tele pickup sounds, so I’m not super surprised that I was correct. I am surprised how bad of a job it did as soon as dirt was put on. I’m sure a lot of that can be changed with amp settings and/or an EQ, but it’s just flat out bad as is.
My guitar is a 70s telecaster american standard it is superb sounding instrument stays in tune for sure My son has got a squire stratocaster japan and yes it sounds great but give me the telecaster anyday i just love it
have you tried a Squier tele? also the classic vibes have been widely regarded as being a different level of Squier to be fair. I love my USA ultra tele dont get me wrong, im not knocking the higher priced ones at all, just amazed at how god a Squier tele can be nowadays for the money. Did you get the blind tone test correct? Thanks for watching buddy. Dont forget to subscribe for more :)
@@johnoakleymusic not tried one yet but I will do TO be honest I was looking at a squire jaguar last time I was in the guitar shop some lad was playing it and it sounded amazing
@@chrismcbrias4681 to be fair we're spoilt nowadays with the quality we have available at the price points. Another low budget high value brand seems to be Harley Benton also. I'm interested to get my hands on one of those and do a Squier Vs Harley Benton tele Faceoff as I reckon that could be interesting too.
@@johnoakleymusic yes not had hands on with the harley benton but they are cheap enough and who knows with a decent setup could be quality instrument but as guitar players we want everything
I got a 100€ Squire strat 15 years ago, it sucks even with new hardware. But the Affinitys today look really good, would love another Strat to put the expensive hardware in and the Affinity hardware in the old one. I got it right but I chnaged my mind twice and was pretty unsure. I thought the Fender sounded better in some in other Squire better in others.
Yeah they’ve really upped their standards. Shocked me. I suspect its brands like PRS and their high standard SE’s have forced people like Squier to try harder through competition which is great for the consumer. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more. 🙏🏻👍🏻
That’s a good call to be fair. Definitely can add a mild snap to sound as I found out with my Strats maple versus rosewood. 👍🏻did you guess the right one? Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe too buddy
The Fender sounds so much fuller soundwise, the Squier sounded much smaller. Also the notes on the Squier sounded off, almost detuned.Both sound fine overall, however in this case sadly you can tell a difference. Cool video, would be great to see some of these with more midrange Squiers compared to Fenders.
I appreciate that but I wanted to show how it sounds comparatively in real world usage but I will do bare bones in future too. Thanks for the suggestion and thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I got a squier cv 50s tele for 250 quid off the fender website the other week. One of the best guitars I own, as good as or maybe better than the player strat I have. I wonder if they build them at CorTek in Indonesia cos my squier feels as good as the PRs se I have that’s built there
It’s surprising that’s for sure. You’re not alone in getting it wrong. I was amazed when listening to both side by side how in certain pickup positions and pedal setups I preferred one over the other. Depends entirely on what you’re playing. The ultra does play a tad better but there’s not a gulf between them that’s for sure that the price point would suggest. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
@@johnoakleymusic the nut is all over the place. Mostly alright apart from that. Really loud humbuckers. Really firm switch. Smooth nobs. Heads good. Modern c neck a bit chunky. Alright for fifty quid. You can have it , make me an offer
Maybe, maybe not. 🤪I assumed you’ve watched the end of the video for the result. Not night and day obvious though is it. Certainly not a walkover. Both are good in different ways I felt. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
That’s interesting too. Some really good insights coming through from this test. Shows how good cheaper guitars can be and to even begin to compete with something so much more expensive is pretty crazy. Thanks for watching buddy and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
Did you see the result? It’s surprising how good an alternative the squier is. Such great value and awesome sound. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 👍🏻🙏🏻
First time watching your videos. Relax a bit dude, you sounded a little rushed and out of breath 👌 Both sound pretty much the same but I’ll guess B is the Squier. 🤷♂️ Good comparison test 👍🏻
I’ve got a cold at the minute, really sore throat so hard to talk mate. I do rush my speaking though as don’t wanna drag it out for the public with their modern lives and always in a rush etc. I’ll slow down a bit next time. Thanks for watching
Yeah it shocked me how great the Squier is. Should be obvious with that money difference yet it wasn’t clear cut at all. Shows it’s a bargain if you are happy to live with the badge which plenty can and do. Not denying the ultra is a better guitar but it’s not even doubly better let alone 7x better like the price would mess with your head to suggest.
I think so. The pickups on the American are way more defined and articulated. To me the sound of the pickups is not as important as having a neck that is done properly and feels good. Unfortunately, I yet found a Squire that feels good. I find other import guitars to be way better than squires.
@@johnoakleymusic since the video is about Tele's that's what I was referring to. Great companies out there like Eart, Harley Benton, Firefly, Musi, schecter, and many other ones, offering high end appointments with necks that feel like butter and way better pickups. Anyways, great review and demostration. You got yourself a sub. 😎
Good video, but point for poplar being lighter than alder…I dunno man, the quality of the wood alone, poplar isn’t great, that’s why it’s on the cheaper guitar. Not saying it’s terrible, but it’s nowhere near as good as alder for a guitar body. Maybe the best piece of poplar dried for a century and roasted against the wettest worst cut of alder, I could see the poplar winning out in that instance, but pound for pound, I’ll take the slightly heavier much better cut any day
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im so glad they sounded almost the same i got it wrong and though the squier was the fender
It’s amazing how close it is. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I have a classic Vibe telecaster, amazing value for money. I haven't weighed mine, but it is a heavy weight compared to my Japanese Tele. I also find the tone of the Classic Vibe less appealing, less spangly, less twang. The neck was 95% right with only a slight height redress of a couple of frets. The chrome hardware tarnished very quickly, cheap. So if you wanted to make the Classic Vibe into a professional player's guitar, first get the neck right, change the tuning pegs, quality hardware, compensating saddles, change the pickups and electronics includeding cable socket, and lose some of that weight. You see, the money starts to build up, cheaper components and far east labour costs are why the Vibe is such good value. When you buy an American Tele, you are getting a guitar that should right straight out of the box, a guitar that will continue to give you pleasure for years to come. The Classic Vibe on the other hand soon makes clear it's shortcomings. A great guitar for customisation though. In the video I thought that both Tele's were slightly out of tune.
I bought a $200 Squier on offer at guitar center, the build quality is astonishing, even the electronics were good. The neck was particularly good. Dropped some Seymour Duncans in it and its even better. Like some others I think the Squier sounds brighter due to maple fingerboard. Great review John.
Yeah they’ve definitely upped their game these past few years. Seymour’s are a great idea. Thanks for watching. Appreciate it. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I generally preferred the sounds of A - particularly when dirty, where guitar B was less distinct or muddy if you will.
With the cleans, although they sounded different from each other, I could toss a coin and be happy using either. Though I did prefer A.
Shows how crazy badge snobbery can be to an extent. I’m guilty of it though. Definitely gonna be getting plenty of use though and I also think it’s a testament to how good squiers have become as much as anything
I have been watching many guitar comparison videos, and it amazes me how indistinguishable a $200 guitar can be from a $2000 or more guitar. This phenomenon is really something for guitarists to be aware of when purchasing any guitar over $500 (or $200?). A great example is the GIbson SG ($1800) vs. the Epiphone SG ($500). Look at it this way, you could buy three Epiphone SGs, diff't colors to match your outfits, and still have money left over to upgrade the pickups in one of them instead of buying one Gibson so you can have the name Gibson on the head.
Definitely something to consider. It’s hard not to want nice things when they’re dangled in front of you but when the head does get to rile the heart there are some brilliant cheaper options as shown by tests like this. Our eyes really do rule in most cases. It’s made me look at things differently that’s for sure. Another example is the PRS silver sky vs se. I genuinely prefer the SE which is £499 at andertons over the core model which is £2k plus. Better sound, better neck too. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
The Classic Vibe series is a phenomenal value. I think what it comes down to is picking a great individual guitar from the CV stable. I’ve picked up light ones with no fret sprout and I’ve randomly picked up very heavy guitars or ones that could cut your hands while playing. None of that will happen when ordering one of Fender’s higher end guitars. I think if you can find a CV at a good weight with a proper neck and frets, then upgrade the wiring, pick ups, and tuners, which may cost 300-400 dollars, you can end up with a great guitar for a total investment of 600-800$ ( plus the time involved in finding the right guitar). It just won’t say Fender.
Yeah it is amazing value. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
Indonesia is in Asia, not the middle east.
Shows my lack of geography. I’ll remember that now. Thanks for watching. 🙏🏻👍🏻
Indonesia is considered middle east 🤡
@@ParkourRhett I wondered that too but I’m sure one of you is correct. Hopefully people understood what I was getting at without upsetting anybody. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
Neither seem to stay in tune. Were all the samples the same guitar because the out of tune was similar on all samples?
Nope this was a genuine test with two separate guitars. Both tuned using the same tuner prior to every single sample.
That’s the charm of a tele. It’s never in tune
all my telecasters stay in tune just fine.
B sounded better clean but A was better distorted to me. B’s distortion sound was very muffled and muddy. Better to get a classic vibe and use the savings to upgrade the pickups and electronics.
Exactly my view hence I’ve since sold the ultra. Thanks for watching. What guitars do you play?
Instintically got it right! The Fender is a tad more subtle, but the Squier sounded great too. By the way, the best 'tele' i ever heard was an Indonesian model (Black & Chrome model)), loaded with Fender parts (changed everything on it,best of both worlds!), Take care and have a great new year!
Nice one. Yeah some cracking guitars out there. We’re very spoilt for choice nowadays. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 👍🏻🙏🏻
Got two CV50 (a Danish Pete too)...and a USA Pro II. For the money AND better pups....go with the CV....I play them MORE than my USA but it's the Fralin/Lollars (and brass nut) that really bring out the magic. Neck is nicer on USA...a lot nicer...shape, texture, smoothness, fret job.
Yeah they are a steal for sure. Great to have these options available for all budgets nowadays. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
If the Squire has split-shaft tuners, then why do you need locking tuners? I have been playing Fenders since the early 60s. In all that time i have never had any tuning issues with the OEM tuners of that era. With the new shafts and that tiny little hole my tuning issues appeared. I have changed all my Strats and my Teles to split shaft drop-in replacements and never had a problem. Broken string replacement on a dark stage is rather difficult due to the "thread the needle" issue. All one needs is a cutter with a flat jaw, measure, bend a 90 degree and stick it in the slot. No more bloody fingers or puncture wounds.
Although I respect what you’re saying I don’t find that to be the case from my experiences personally. I prefer lockers far more and genuinely dislike that slot type. Each to their own buddy. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
The sound is quite similar, but guitar B is out of tune, which can be perceived as "worse"
Both were tuned each and every time before each sound clip using the same tuner. I don’t therefore know how that is possible in every clip. Maybe one sound bite but not all. Thanks for watching
It’s very close but I picked B as the USA. I’m the proud owner of a Squire Affinity tele
And proud you should be. Brand name isn’t half as important as it used to be on guitars when the gulf of difference existed as nowadays all guitars are so much better than they used to be more so in the affordable ranges. Thanks for watching buddy and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I’m amazed as I love my CV teles but I was convinced guitar A was the fender, sounded better and sustained better on distorted sound and would completely expected the fender to have the better pick ups but wow. Of course the fender will have the better hardware overall but the classic vibes really are amazing value, if you prefer different pick ups stick some in, there’s nothing like the difference in price compared to the difference in quality, both exceptional instruments
Yeah they’re a great foundation To build from. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Nice review. I watch reviews like this for fun. I generally agree with what you said in your review. I could tell which one was the Ulta in every sound clip. The ultra sounds better for sure. Seven times better... well no as you stated. You could swap pickups and probably get much closer. They sell USA pickups for about $100...such as Yosemite pickups which are killer... and warmer sounding than the ones on the squire. I've played cheap telecasters next to custom shop telecasters and didn't notice much of a difference in tone. With that said...if you have the cash I'd take the Ulta any day of the week. It's the coolest, sleekest, most beautiful telecaster that's ever been made. I've owned five telecasters...a squire affinity which was terrible sounding and playing, a CV 50's which was way better, an American performer, and American pro II, and now an ultra. The CV was surprisingly good but was way too bright sounding for my taste... and I could buy something used higher up the chain for the same price as swapping pickups and saddles. All three of my American telecasters were perfectly made... and sounded fantastic... just slightly different. My favorites are the performer and the ultra in terms of tone for my taste. The neck pickup is my favorite on the performer but I like the overdrive tone way more in the ultra. At the end of the day the cheaper squire teles are very good for the money but not on par with the ultra. It's like a Hyundai next to a Ferrari. Both good but the workmanship on the ultra is way finer. I actually think around $2,200 for a top of the line telecaster is a killer deal when compared to what you get from Gibson or PRS for that price. I connect guitars and the ultra is one of my cheapest guitars. I used to buy a lot of Asian made guitars and a lot of them were great.... sounded really good... though a lot of them looked and felt cheap in comparison to the USA ones I've had... but doesn't mean many of them won't do the job and do it very well.
Yeah I have a player Strat that I’ve put Texas specials on and it’s a superb guitar now. Thanks for watching buddy. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I am pretty sure in recent years Squire bodies are thinner than Fender USA which is probably where there is weight differences. If the Squier has cheap chrome plated potted steal that would also make it lighter than a American Fender with real steal.
Some fair comments there. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 👍🏻
Guitar B sounded better for the clean playing, but was muddy on the distorted playing. Could be the taper of the tone pot. I recently bought a made in Indonesia 70's Classic vibe Squire thinline tele (semi hollow body) with Fender designed wide range humbucker pickups, and can attest to the build quality of the Squire.
Yeah I agree with that summary. Thin line sounds good. I do like the look of those too. It’s so impressive how much Squier has upped their game in recent years. Thanks for watching buddy. Don’t forget to subscribe for more. Got an another video this week with another Squier model that I’ve just got hold of. Another interesting comparison too….
Great test and video! Which I also agree if you prefer a sound you prefer a sound.
Yeah it’s interesting how different people want different things. Keeps us interesting as humans or it’d be boring
I guessed B as Fender only bc of the neck pickup since it was a lot more clean
Nice one. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 👍🏻🙏🏻
Sound A, the Squier has the better sounding bridge pickup. B the USA Fender has the better sounding neck and middle position blend. For a couple hundred bucks you could make the Squier into an absolute killer guitar just by changing the neck pickup, pots, switch, and tuners. Was the USA model properly tuned? Sounds a tad weird.
I have five Teles in my harem here, (only one is a Fender, a genuine 52 year old 1972 model). My Fender sounds amazing, but I don't think it sounds necessarily better than the others, although it definitely holds together with higher gain amp settings better than three of them. The Fourth one has a set of EMG Active Tele pickups, so it also handles drive well. My other Teles are Two Fenix models, a Rockerbilly Custom made (With active EMGs) , and an Antonio Tsai Custom made.
I was thinking the same thing that nearly every guitarist could turn one of these squiers into a cracking guitar all in for under £500 that suits their personal taste and have a great workhorse. Crazy value really. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
Preferred guitar A overall actually, brighter and more articulate. More Fendery if you will. Yes, abit of a shocker at the reveal....then I remembered that the ultra had noiseless pickups, which I've never been overly impressed by. So it made sense after all 😅
Yeah surprised me how good the Squier was in comparison. Even to play it’s not as far off as you’d assume based on price. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I picked b as the dearer one but merely because
a I thought sounded slightly harsher and buzzy in places and that’s it. (I have owned a couple of old vintage ones too).
The difference sonically really is so small that it is negligible. There may be a big difference in the handling and appearance in person but for £299 the squire is a relative steal and great for you and your kids to learn on. The crappy pots and hardware can always be replaced if needed.
All the top guitarists started on guitars far worse than either of these.
Yeah I agree
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Good test, I preferred the definition of the cheap one.
Back in the early 90's A friend had a Fender 25th anniversary strat. That thing was heavy, much more heavy as my 1989 USA strat (I still have) It had a huge sustain compared to my strat. To bad I could not find one back then. But weight does not say much, my Musicman Majesty is "small" and pretty light, but it has more sustain as my strat. It also has a lot more harmonics.
I think the most important thing is the build quality if you plan to play it for many years. I had a squire in the 88 (I think it was even branded Fender but was made in Japan) within the warranty the body started to crack. They replaced it but I had no trust in it so I payed extra for a USA strat. I am curious what those Cheap Chinese models do over time regarding the wood. (warp or crack).
But all these compares are mostly about the tone. Things I found to be different between guitars are things like how low can you set the action (right uniform shape of the neck), durability of the frets (Cheap Chineese metal or durable), is the wood stable (warping/cracks over time). How precise are the tuners (a good tuner gives you a very high precision, that is, turn a lot for a small change in pitch, versus, only looking at it makes it jump a whole note and it does not stay in tune. Quality of potentiometers. My strat pots are still perfect, replaced the ones in my as new looking 30 year old Samic 335 a few years ago because they where worn and crappy. Durability of nut and things like bridge/saddles (chromed durable the right way, or stainless steal, nickel etc)All things that are important long after you bought it.
See I always thought that heavier body was denser therefore sustained longer yet the whole industry says otherwise nowadays hence why custom shops are always lighter. I don’t understand the physics behind that but the industry seems adamant that lighter equals more sustain. Must be something to do with density. It’s widely accepted that’s the case by people with far more knowledge than me but I always had the same opinion as you.
Yeah build quality matters but these squiers are surprisingly well made. As I said in the video the USA is definitely better but it’s hard to quantify as it’s definitely only 5-10% at a push so 7x the cost is hard to justify. Maybe 3-4x would be more applicable. Squiers used to be really poorly made and were literally doorstops or firewood but they’ve come on so much.
Thanks for watching., the aim was to help people realise that if they have a limited budget they can still get a great guitar and be proud of it, not to say the fender isn’t better.
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I preferred A
Yeah it’s crazy how divided this is. Shows it’s all personal too. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I thought similar sound to my untrained ear until the ambient sound, which I thought A was better. Insane to be that close with that price difference. Great vid John 🤘🤘
Thanks yeah it’s crazy how similar they can be and also so different in price. Shows how great value the cheaper one is.
Good comparison video. Thank you.
Thankyou that’s very kind. Don’t forget to subscribe for more and happy new year 🙏🏻👍🏻
Soldly Guitar B was deeper, richer and more dynamic like the differnce between FHD and 4K in all the tests Like it isn't even close for me... Then again I'm a perfect poitcher, autistic, and have audio file grade ears. But both sounded great and I doudt most listeners whould ever notice the differnce.
It’s also a personal taste thing too though plus depends on what you’re looking for in a particular sound. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
If ain't distorted the USA Tele sounds better, but distorted even though there is difference I can't say either one sounds better.
That was pretty much my leaning although I could see how either could be used in either selection depending on song type and band mix also to be fair. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more. Got another coming up this week. Equally interesting
I could tell by the 60 Cycle hum that A was the Squier.
Except for the guy's accent and the fact he refers to prices in Pounds vs Dollars makes me believe he's in the UK not the USA. In which case the UK doesn't use 60Hz Cycle for AC electricity, they use 50Hz Cycle, so it was a 50Hz Cycle hum not 60Hz cycle hum you heard.
The normal giveaway is that the US Teles have a brighter tone which is something that I don´t like. I based my guess based on the neck pickup sound demo and was.... WRONG! The US Tele was darker than the Squier which is a surprise!
Yeah it’s definitely a surprise how great the Squier stands up. Testament to the quality out there for all budgets nowadays. We’re very lucky. When I started playing the squiers were a nightmare to play and sounded awful. Come on a lot. I think it’s due to the competition such as PRS SE line etc forcing Squier to up their game. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe as I have a new video out tomorrow you’ll be interested in I reckon. 🙏🏻👍🏻
great little video, thx so much
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Before finding out, I’m guessing guitar B is the Fender and I only like it better during the cleans.
interesting to see what you think once youve watched all of ti :)
@@johnoakleymusic I’ve listened to hundreds of different Tele pickup sounds, so I’m not super surprised that I was correct. I am surprised how bad of a job it did as soon as dirt was put on. I’m sure a lot of that can be changed with amp settings and/or an EQ, but it’s just flat out bad as is.
@@Full_Deflection yeah definitely interesting
My guitar is a 70s telecaster american standard it is superb sounding instrument stays in tune for sure My son has got a squire stratocaster japan and yes it sounds great but give me the telecaster anyday i just love it
have you tried a Squier tele? also the classic vibes have been widely regarded as being a different level of Squier to be fair. I love my USA ultra tele dont get me wrong, im not knocking the higher priced ones at all, just amazed at how god a Squier tele can be nowadays for the money. Did you get the blind tone test correct? Thanks for watching buddy. Dont forget to subscribe for more :)
@@johnoakleymusic not tried one yet but I will do TO be honest I was looking at a squire jaguar last time I was in the guitar shop some lad was playing it and it sounded amazing
@@chrismcbrias4681 to be fair we're spoilt nowadays with the quality we have available at the price points. Another low budget high value brand seems to be Harley Benton also. I'm interested to get my hands on one of those and do a Squier Vs Harley Benton tele Faceoff as I reckon that could be interesting too.
@@johnoakleymusic yes not had hands on with the harley benton but they are cheap enough and who knows with a decent setup could be quality instrument but as guitar players we want everything
@@chrismcbrias4681yeah we are a fussy and snobby bunch at times. Thats why I find blind tone tests so interesting and insightful
I got a 100€ Squire strat 15 years ago, it sucks even with new hardware. But the Affinitys today look really good, would love another Strat to put the expensive hardware in and the Affinity hardware in the old one.
I got it right but I chnaged my mind twice and was pretty unsure. I thought the Fender sounded better in some in other Squire better in others.
Yeah they’ve really upped their standards. Shocked me. I suspect its brands like PRS and their high standard SE’s have forced people like Squier to try harder through competition which is great for the consumer. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more. 🙏🏻👍🏻
The maple neck I think made the cheaper one sound brighter.
That’s a good call to be fair. Definitely can add a mild snap to sound as I found out with my Strats maple versus rosewood. 👍🏻did you guess the right one? Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe too buddy
I've watched this video 8 times and got it right 7 times' that's how good I am.
Nice one. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
The Fender sounds so much fuller soundwise, the Squier sounded much smaller. Also the notes on the Squier sounded off, almost detuned.Both sound fine overall, however in this case sadly you can tell a difference.
Cool video, would be great to see some of these with more midrange Squiers compared to Fenders.
What about if it was Squier vs Mexican player series versus fender? Thanks for watching buddy and don’t forget to subscribe 🙏🏻👍🏻
The cleans in the fender were fuller but the distorted sound came across as cheap. The Squier sounded great distorted!
Yeah the Squier pickups definitely had a nice bite to them with distortion. Thanks for watching buddy. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I don't think adding fx, such as delay to the sound tests a good idea. Using the bare minimum will be more revealing.
I appreciate that but I wanted to show how it sounds comparatively in real world usage but I will do bare bones in future too. Thanks for the suggestion and thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I got a squier cv 50s tele for 250 quid off the fender website the other week. One of the best guitars I own, as good as or maybe better than the player strat I have. I wonder if they build them at CorTek in Indonesia cos my squier feels as good as the PRs se I have that’s built there
Yeah I was close to pulling the pin for that one instead but fell in love with the purple. That was a cracking deal. Amazing for the money
PRS SE’s are amazing too. I have a silver sky se, hollowbody ii SE, Custom 24 SE and SC245 SE. Brilliant guitars
I'm not saying which one is best. I thought Squier was B.Wrong!!!
It’s surprising that’s for sure. You’re not alone in getting it wrong. I was amazed when listening to both side by side how in certain pickup positions and pedal setups I preferred one over the other. Depends entirely on what you’re playing. The ultra does play a tad better but there’s not a gulf between them that’s for sure that the price point would suggest. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
@@johnoakleymusic still not as good as a Harley Benton and nut file kit off gumtree for £60.00!!!
All done
I’m actually very intrigued by Harley Benton and would love to get my hands on one to do a test @@alhewat7775
@@johnoakleymusic the nut is all over the place. Mostly alright apart from that. Really loud humbuckers. Really firm switch. Smooth nobs. Heads good. Modern c neck a bit chunky. Alright for fifty quid. You can have it , make me an offer
@@alhewat7775 I’m ok thanks
I guess A is the Squier and B is the Ultra
Maybe, maybe not. 🤪I assumed you’ve watched the end of the video for the result. Not night and day obvious though is it. Certainly not a walkover. Both are good in different ways I felt. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
I thought A was the fender but I preferred B
That’s interesting too. Some really good insights coming through from this test. Shows how good cheaper guitars can be and to even begin to compete with something so much more expensive is pretty crazy. Thanks for watching buddy and don’t forget to subscribe for more 🙏🏻👍🏻
A was my choice…
Did you see the result? It’s surprising how good an alternative the squier is. Such great value and awesome sound. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe for more 👍🏻🙏🏻
First time watching your videos. Relax a bit dude, you sounded a little rushed and out of breath 👌 Both sound pretty much the same but I’ll guess B is the Squier. 🤷♂️
Good comparison test 👍🏻
Oh I carried on watching and got it wrong 😂.. perfect example of people wasting money unnecessarily 😊
I’ve got a cold at the minute, really sore throat so hard to talk mate. I do rush my speaking though as don’t wanna drag it out for the public with their modern lives and always in a rush etc. I’ll slow down a bit next time. Thanks for watching
Yeah it shocked me how great the Squier is. Should be obvious with that money difference yet it wasn’t clear cut at all. Shows it’s a bargain if you are happy to live with the badge which plenty can and do. Not denying the ultra is a better guitar but it’s not even doubly better let alone 7x better like the price would mess with your head to suggest.
B was the better sound by far.
Interesting. Did you think that in every scenario? Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 👍🏻🙏🏻
I think so. The pickups on the American are way more defined and articulated. To me the sound of the pickups is not as important as having a neck that is done properly and feels good. Unfortunately, I yet found a Squire that feels good. I find other import guitars to be way better than squires.
@@msantos7948 PRS SE’s?
@@johnoakleymusic since the video is about Tele's that's what I was referring to. Great companies out there like Eart, Harley Benton, Firefly, Musi, schecter, and many other ones, offering high end appointments with necks that feel like butter and way better pickups.
Anyways, great review and demostration. You got yourself a sub. 😎
Good video, but point for poplar being lighter than alder…I dunno man, the quality of the wood alone, poplar isn’t great, that’s why it’s on the cheaper guitar. Not saying it’s terrible, but it’s nowhere near as good as alder for a guitar body. Maybe the best piece of poplar dried for a century and roasted against the wettest worst cut of alder, I could see the poplar winning out in that instance, but pound for pound, I’ll take the slightly heavier much better cut any day
That’s a fair comment 👍🏻
The real fender was clearer.
Yeah it was a close call though. Did you guess correctly? Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe for more 👍🏻🙏🏻