This series is the alpha and the omega of guitar reviews. Awesome work! Now all I need is a six-part course to educate me how one can convince one's spouse that purchasing such a high-end instrument is a splendid idea
1. Do the dishes 2. Cook for her more often 3. Compliment her often 4. Show patience in listening to her 5. Kiss her a lot 6. Admit your purchase to her!! Good luck 😂
Twenty years ago I persuaded my spouse that spending $5K on a 1916, sixteen string Gibson U-style Harp Guitar was a marvelous opportunity and a great deal. I am not a guitarist by almost any measure but I do passionately love these remarkable instruments.. Be careful what you wish for… My wife is still fine with it - but as for me: yikes!
I’m glad someone finally got strandberg right. Everyone thinks they’re a metal guitar, but in reality they’re just the most comfortable playing production guitar available. I’ve sold some of my older students on strandberg on the comfort alone.
As a long time Strat player (Jeff Beck), I had reservations on Strandberg. I followed the company's improvements over the years and decided all or most of the prototyping had been complete. I ended up buying an NX6 sight unseen and could not have been more pleased. I must say that the Beck Strat with roller nut is brilliant as the string sits on hardened steel ball bearings making an ideal fulcrum point; however the Strandberg with zero fret is equally amazing, providing a playability I have never experienced. I'm fully pleased with price point and quality. Love your channel!
Yeah, Eddy. I dont understand why the zero fret is not a part of most every guitar. Best i could ascertain is that it makes it hard to get high action, and it costs an extra nickel.
Carbon fibre really only has strength in tension, and with all materials it's proportional to the distance from the centre of the material. Most companies put the CF in the middle of the neck, in line with the truss rod. Parker puts it over the entire outside after carving it, and strandberg laminates it all the way through. Both of those are absolutely what people should be doing and why I'm now experimenting with carbon fibre in my personal projects. 🤘 Glad to hear it's stable, as it confirms my suspicions and the basic principles behind why a lot of carbon fibre is less of an improvement than the material properties suggest it would be. Things such as the bridge and whammy bar also have my brain turning, thanks for being so in depth, this stuff is like catnip for me especially as these guitars are very hard to come by down under.
Your style of reviewing guitars is nice; I've watched like 5 vids now I think I'm fully sold on your credibility. Which is a funny thing; I've barely heard any of your actual playing but the way you talk about the nuances of owning the instrument after 100 hours is an incredibly useful and awesome thing.
I appreciate that. There’s a couple playing videos up, but I will def have more this year. I’d like to hold myself accountable to atleaet one a month starting in March.
i would literally never watch an hour of a guitar review, but the absolute obsession of detail really makes me think this isn't a sales pitch, its a true real world review by someone who has actually lived with the instrument. Thank you
The Strandberg Experiment has been a huge deciding factor in me deciding to try them out. The depths you went to have been massively helpful. Thanks for making such a sick comprehensive series!
@@andrefludd So sorry it took me so long to reply dude! I hate that I don’t get the right notifications from YT. That’s kind of you man, thank you! I’m a big fan of yours too. I’d be honoured to come on the podcast, I’ll be in touch 🙇🏻♂️
Really appreciate you doing in-depth content like this. You're a lot more discerning than I am, but this is super useful for people like me that have full-blown existential crises over large purchases like this. Thank you.
Regarding stands, Fender Universal A-frame Stand works great for me. You can adjust its "arms" height to fit the Strandberg shape precisely. And it's pretty cheap.
Simple honesty. What a rare commodity this has become. I completely enjoyed your breakdown on this guitar. In-depth, as well as hitting the most important points to consider whenever any of us in the guitar player experience need to openly discuss. We don't need the usual hype or empty claims. Well done, sir! Cheers and Happy Christmas! Brian Cooper, Shinkai Studio, Japan.
Your diligence and thoroughness in this review is highly commendable. I have found the Strandbergs to be easy on me and I tend to pick them up first. I have small hands, and have no trouble at all with the endurneck or the radius. I also owned a heavier Parker - and Strandbergs have elements that remind me of the original Parker - maybe it is just the "strange" looking thing and the smoothness of the fretboard. Thank you very much!
58:05 You are really good at this. I get that you don’t feel ready for a signature model yet, but I do think guitar manufacturers would be wise to work with you as a consultant on improving their designs. Dreaming bigger, Strandberg, Kiesel, D’Angelico etc. could release “Guitar Craft limited edition” models and then incorporate them into regular production if they sell well.
I don’t think that anyone makes a guitar that fully works for you. Your skills and understanding and musical technique makes such a thing impossible. This is the curse that follows those who pursue expertise - and achieve it! Still, even an amateur like me owes you a debt of gratitude for lending such insight into the art of understanding and playing the guitar… Thanks - how cool to have access to a true genius - where else but RUclips..?
The plinking sound comes from a groove or divot wearing in the zero fret and the string getting stuck in the groove when bending strings. This also means that the string will start buzzing at some point because it's sitting lower in the zero fret as the groove gets bigger. Brian May had a zero fret on his guitar and he wore clean through the zero fret on some strings according to a luthier who worked on it. The luthier couldn't believe Brian could still play it! Zero frets are widely used on nylon string guitars and obviously never wear grooves. And some acoustics don't wear grooves as quickly as electrics because of less string bending. Gibson and Kiezel both tried using zero frets but abandoned them because of issues with them.
Best guitar review I've seen so far, I really love the level of detail you go into! I also strongly dislike the volume knob placement on Strat-style guitars; I think it's in that place because the guitar was meant to be played either more timidly or by strumming closer to the neck than the bridge, with the guitar higher up. With a playing technique like that, it's not really ever in the way, but close enough that you can keep playing while adjusting the volume. Keep in mind that the Strat was developed before effects pedals were really a thing, so controls on your guitar were pretty much all you had in the way of effects. It looks to me like Strandberg solved the issue by moving the pot just a little bit further toward the bridge.
Ola Strandberg addressed the fret sprout problem in a post this morning on facebook. "I completely understand that fret sprout is annoying in any guitar, but in an expensive guitar even more so. We do take measures to prevent this, and we have an active project running to take it to the next level, but the fact is that a metal fret doesn’t contract/expand with environmental conditions, but wood does. Further, combining a neck material that shrinks/swells and a fretboard material that doesn’t leads to a “bi-metal” effect. Filing fret ends to the point that they will never extend past the edge of the fretboard might lead to playability issues. Deadening a fretboard material to the point that it is stable (which is done on cheap guitars) will also deaden the sound. Assembling a guitar under one set of conditions, storing it in another, shipping it to a third, and finally exposing it to a variety of conditions due to changing seasons, air conditioning, electrical heating, and so on, is simply challenging. In designing our guitars, we have to balance all these things to deliver a product that meets your needs as players and performs to or beyond expectations. We take measures at the factory, in our arrival inspection, as well as in our pre-shipping inspection to make sure that no guitar leaves with fret sprout, but it’s still no guarantee that it doesn’t develop it during your ownership. As you can see in this thread, some people accept fret sprout and take care of it, others buy only used guitars that have lived past it, and others question it. I also question why it has to be this way, and am trying to solve it. Until then, you will have to choose what is important…"
Thanks for sharing. I've tried a used and a refurb strandberg direct from strandberg. Both above $3,000. Both with some degree of fret sprout. If it left the factory with fret sprout that goes against what he said. If it got fret sprout in the trip from where it was stored to my house, that would be very strange and even more concerning. These are also the only guitars I've tried used or new above $2,000 with fret sprout.
As I noted in your previous video, the Fender A-frame stand works perfectly for Strandberg guitars. The lower supports adjust up and down to accommodate the different height of the lower sides of the guitar. It also has an arm that holds the guitar in on the left side. If you want to hang it on the wall, skip the Strandberg wall hanger - it is $90 by the time you pay for shipping. Just get a basic String Swing wall hanger and turn the hanger forks upside down in the base. This holds the Strandberg head perfectly and securely. You can also use the forks in the standard position and bend them closer together to hold the head.
When you really play guitar for hours a day with honest practice, every tiny detail of the guitar becomes apparent. I appreciate a review that goes over all those small details. Your style of review is my favorite already, and I hope your channel continues to see growth from this review! I've mentioned Abasi guitars but would also be curious on your experience if any of a PRS custom 24. Cheers to you man!
You're missing a step when restringing that will fix the string ends poking out. After you clip the string, unlock that string lock and allow the string to pull just inside the string lock, then retune. This completely eliminates the string poking out. On the NX, bend the string up then clip the string. The nub will fall in between the teeth and no longer be an issue.
Hey Andre, I have a K&M Heli 2 A-frame guitar stand which works well for my Strandberg Boden Classic. When sitting on the stand, the strap button on the top bout does come very close to the floor, but it doesn’t touch. Of course, the stand also works great for more traditional body shapes, and it folds flat and very compact for bringing it to a rehearsal or gig. Thanks for the in depth vid!
Once again your videos are the best, you are nearly as picky as me and that's comforting lol. I did want to mention that I have a Boden 7string bought new August 2021 for $2600 and I am indeed experiencing frett sprout, very disappointing. Regarding the bridge I keep it on the lower post setting because it is more subtle and I believe contributes to the tuning stability. But when I pull up on the wammy I quickly hit a physical wall and I can only increase the pitch one semitone. When you raise the bridge to position 2 this increases the range when pulling up on the wammy (I believe that's where you said you had some confusion as to why even have two settings). The tuning stability of the neck is phenomenal and the bridge, when compared to a Floyd (like on my esp) is in a league of its own in terms of tuning stability, set up, string changes. Interestingly I use elixr 9-42s on all my guitars and I never had that problem getting the bridge to float. Also after my initial setup in '21 I haven't had to adjust intonation or the spring tension at all when I change strings the bridge just keeps doin its thing (did not expect that before purchase). My only regret was not going with the neck through model which was available when I purchased this one, but it is now extremely hard to find and only second hand. I think maybe they didn't have a seven string neckthrough and also I'm fond of the fishmans, but I should have went with the neckthrough. One last thing: Andre you really got me hyped on the performaxe, I went to buy one after I saw that video, but they have been out of stock for weeks and I can't even find a used one... Shame! Haha
First I want to thank you for taking the time to do this in depth review! You earned a new subscriber. I’ve been on the fence about ordering a Strandberg for a while and this series definitely helped me make a decision. I love when channels like yours help consumers make an informed decision. I’m not sure if anyone else has mentioned this, but regarding the issue with strings poking out the top- I’ve owned a headless Kiesel and the way I’d get around this issue is measuring the string out to where it would be flush with the hardware and cutting it before I put the string on. Then I’d take a small file and file away any excess. I’ll admit it was a bit of a pain but this seemed to resolve the issue completely.
Thanks for the support! Yes, I do the same thing with the strandberg. I mention it in episode 1 but forgot to restate in the conclusion. Are you going to get a strandberg? If so, which model?
Ahh sorry! Must have missed that in the first video. I think I’ve landed on the Metal NX 6. I’m a big fan of multiscale guitars and this one seems to fit my style.
@@xiiieternal Great choice. I don't link some of the colors for that model, but others are pretty netural. More importantly, the fishman pickups w/ the strandberg's quick attack is going to be \m/.
This was easily the best guitar review ever posted on youtube and must viewing for anyone considering the purchase of a Strandberg. Phenomenal work, Dr. Fludd. Can't wait for the next series.
Maybe I should make that the title "Best guitar review on youtube." lol just kidding. Can you imagine the hate that would attract for a 1 hour video where I barely play.
This was great Andre! After 20 years of playing flamenco i wanted to relive my youth and dug out my strat, ugh. I hate even holding it lol. This looks interesting just from the ergos.
Hi Andre, I intend to buy your course because you're I'm keen to relearn my basic knowledge of theory as well. Thank you for making it so affordable. I look forward to try it . Thank you for all the work you put in! I appreciate you Andre! keep it up :)
You continue to think about aspects of a guitar that I tend to overlook but that's what makes this series great. I hope a manufacturer takes you up on your offer to do consultative work on a future guitar. I would love an in-depth look at Kiesel, I'll leave the model up to you. Great work as always!
Such a great, thorough review. Not much I'd disagree with, though I've never hit the knobs when I strum, ever, lol. Fun almost going through this journey with you as you released the episodes. My review: Cons I personally care about: Trem loosening is a little annoying. No proper stand is annoying (I saw a comment below about A-frame, I use an Amazon basics one, but have to tilt it in a specific way for it to balance and stand). For my small body size the strap isn't short enough to have it stay in nerdy position and wished it was. I don't find the tones on my boden standard nx particularly inspiring but not bothersome per se. Rough frets, I think mine might have a tiny fret level issue too. Don't love playing barre chords on it but it's no biggie on the big-of-a-deal meter. Pros: I love supporting innovative design, can't argue Ola pushed the industry forward by a lot. Lightweight and never accidentally hit headstock on desk (I do this all the time). Ergonomics, comfort in any position for a long time, my back/neck/wrist thanks strandberg. Endurneck naturally puts my hand and wrist in optimal positions--I notice how I grip my other guitars have changed for the better! Recently noticed I'd do a grip on normal medium C ish neck and then shift to how I'd grip on Endurneck instead and it's more comfortable/relaxed. (Also agree it somehow feels thin but it's also not?!) The upper flat surface is actually comfortable to push thumb against for certain things too. It improves my technique somehow! Your thoughts about the Endurneck highlighted and helped process my own thoughts, so thanks for that! I've also thought about: (1) whether I should sell it and then buy another Strandberg later, when they've fixed some issues and I have more moneys, and/or I buy a higher model in the future (Salen Jazz so nice with the f hole) which will less likely have fret issues?! Though I assume you also felt fret edges on a variety of models at your GC. And 2) whether I should get frets rolled off and levelled properly...I'm on the fence, already so much money spent on it. For now, overall, many small, annoying things, but the huge advantages of incredible ergonomics and potential of improving my technique is winning me over. Let me know what you think!
54:02 I agree that Kiesel should offer an ergonomic body shape! That and the pickups seem so high gain/shredder/metal and I’m the complete opposite of that. But Kiesels and their level of customization intrigue me. I’ve heard people say Strandbergs are classier and more understated in their finish, while Kiesels are finished like shiny day-glo popsicles. (Cue me saying, “and that’s a BAD thing?” 🤭) For me personally? I would love if there was a way to spawn a cross between a Strandberg and a Kiesel, so I could have the Kiesel neck and aqua sparkle California burst finish (because I’m extra) but the ergonomic, slightly smaller Strandberg body and pickups. Thanks for your thorough review and for answering my question! You answered exactly what I wanted to know - if the playability, especially now that you’ve logged so many hours on it, better, it isn’t enough to overcome the emotional attachment and memories and design and everything good about your number 1. Nostalgia and emotional attachment is real and it’s valuable and I appreciate your acknowledgement of that! 🥰
Strandberg was having some quality issues - particularly with fret finishing - a couple of years back. However, I believe they have addressed this and I bought a new Prog NX and it passes the nylon sock Phil McKnight test with a 5/5. Richlite really helps this because it is not temp sensitive.
@@andrefludd d’oh! It was autocorrect, I swear! Edited. You are the opposite of fluff - and mystery woman should be very proud! I wish my wife was a legendary guitarist!
Even though fret sprout might be impossible to prevent entirely, I think most of the discomfort could be avoided if the bottom edges of the fret ends were rounded somewhat before the frets are pressed all the way down into the slots. After all, even without fret sprout the fret ends are still sticking out from the wood (by design), albeit it in a direction perpendicular to the fretboard. This doesn't feel uncomfortable simply because the tops and sides of the fret ends have been filed smooth. I actually took care of the issue on one of my guitars by (WARNING!!! If anyone wants to try this, be extra careful not to create tool marks in the wood) holding the fret end file almost parallel to the neck and focusing mostly on rounding the protruding bottom edges of the fret ends instead of trying to remove all the material sticking out. I must say this worked beautifully, and made the guitar feel really comfortable to play again despite it still having some "fret sprout", technically speaking. (However, I noticed afterwards that I had made some ugly scratches in the wood with the file, but this should be avoidable with proper precautions and some practice.)
What a review! You really covered everything, and I think you have found out what YOU need in a guitar! That is a hard journey! Finding a guitar that not only speaks to you, but is comfortable for you as well? That is HARD to do. great Job Andre.
@@andrefludd That IS a steep price, bro. I just checked them out...and I can see why. Sometimes I wonder if there is ONE guitar out there that will do everything I need. I would sell all of my guitars for THAT guitar. But I need one that nails a Strat tone and feel for Blues and Neo Soul. I need one that works for heavy metal. I need a Trem system. I like actives...but sometimes need passives. Why do I have 10 guitars? I NEED each of them!
I bought an used J6 and been playing it for 3 months. J series have neck binding so there were no rough edge issue, I also use my thumb alot for chords. The problem I had was 1. it will take me a while to get used to any other guitar after play it 2. the stainless steel fret and stock SD pickups made it sound a bit too modern for my taste 3. find it harder to play chords on higher frets given the fret design. Still highly recommand to try, it will make your guitar playing improve overnight...
Happy to see you still have your Parker. Besides my P-42, I have a Strandberg clone (Eart), and love it, and it doesn't have the issues you mentioned - no string ends protruding, no sharp frets. Frets are stainless steel, action is great with zero fret. Lacks a trem, but I don't use a trem very much and I don't finger pick. No fan frets. All in all, not perfect (no place to put my clip-on tuner), but it only cost me $330 brand new!
For anyone who can’t find a stand solution for the Strandberg, Zither’s floating stand for a guitar works, but instead of using the standard guitar wall hanger hook replace it with a ukulele one. I have two of those stands, and changed the hooks and it works perfectly for my 2 Strandberg guitars.
Excellent detailed review of the brand, and thanks for mentioning our comment on the fret ends. I am sure they will get it right over time. Even with that, I am going to buy another one as that neck is just sooooo playable. Maybe a semi hollow one?
Fender came out with the small neck radius of 7.25" or 9.5" on most of their guitars so that is the only place that comes from. Not only does a small radius neck not help me do barre chords it also makes string bending that doesn't fret out really tough! You can't have both low action and good string bending on a low radius neck! That's why all the speed necks with super low action have large radiuses.
Watched a number of your videos and while you are not a fan of fanned frets, do they actually aid in intonation and staying in tune while fretting notes? You did the comparison with straight frets and True Tune, but I don't see a reference to the efficacy of fanned frets aiding in the compensation of inherit tuning issues related to fretted instruments. Love the in depth analysis, love what you do here!
1) I love your channel 2) you don't need to justify your nitpicking, it's part of your brand. 3)that said, fret sprout is an issue with wood shrinkage due to necks not being stored at the proper humidity. It doesn't have to do with fret-dressing. If your gripe is with strandberg because they claim their necks don't swell or shrink, then feel free to ignore this. But if you believe it has to do with the set-up/finishing work, read up. It's most often due to whole-saler/transit/dealer/owner storage conditions. I would evaluate who you purchase strandbergs from before I levy that particular gripe at strandberg themselves. The fact that the new strandberg wall at your local GC doesn't have those issues all but makes my case. I've never bought a guitar from my local GC or Sam Ash for this reason. Though I cant afford any guitars a Lark here in San Antonio, I have never seen fret sprout on a single instrument in 5 years of living in this city. 1B) I reiterate, I love your channel, after hearing how you look up to these other RUclipsrs on another episode, I am pulling for you because, your nitpickery(?) Combined with your honesty about your situation and the reasons you think the way you do make you the most valuable gear resource for the average player, at least in my mind. So I hope you don't take offense to my comment or think that I'm trying to start something. I'm a more analog than digital singer/songwriter non shredder who is just good enough as a hired gun to stay working when my voice is less than stellar. Your thought process makes you priceless and/but knowledge is your super power. With the things that you get hung up on, boning up on your luthier-related guitar knowledge would elevate what your trying to do in my opinion. 4)In the spirit of your awesome big-of-a-deal meter and Adam Grant's 'think again' (great book that indirectly yet wholly supports your meter) my last is my opinion, and I could be convinced otherwise if the evidence is sound ;) Keep doing what you do! It's really awesome! And if you agree with the luthier stuff, stew mac's channel has been a resource for me for years saving money on guitar set ups Have a good day:)
Another great thorough review with an interesting discussion of various features, and what you like / don't like. One of my favorite YT guitar channels, too bad the YT guitar community is so slow to realize it; please keep doing what you're doing and more with discover your channel. I left off my point in my last post as I blathered on...I keep finding usable guitars that are well made, decent+ fit and finish, that work, sound and feel great for the price, some much better than I expected for the price like my aliexpress "special". 😁 Nothing wrong with buying more expensive guitars, I own several, three are my favorites; for what I paid for my less expensive guitars (under $1K, some under $300) it has to be something I think is really worth the money when I get to $2500 or above.
I understand perfectly the right angle issue on the locking nut. I've had guitars with Floyd Rose locking nuts that gave me the exact same issue. I even went so far as to sand the edges down to try and alleviate some of the discomfort, but it's a major reason why I don't like locking nut systems.
What can I say except: you did it again! Another fantastic, in depth, and honest review of an instrument! I have been a fan of Strandbergs for years, but was too unsure about making the purchase (the price points for these guitars already start a bit expensive at $1500, and then ramp up to around 7k here in Japan), and this experiment really helps one to make a concrete, informed decision with your help! I personally twould have liked to have heard your thoughts on the tuning mechanisms a bit more, as I’m a slow learner lol, but here is to an excellent experiment: well done, Doc! Thank you! Please discuss the Vigier Marilyn behind you one day if possible!
Firstly, I just want to say that I really appreciate your dedication to your reviews. I found you through the Strandberg experiment, but you've introduced me to many other guitars that I wouldn't have considered otherwise like the Parker guitars. I own three Strandbergs, and unfortunately I'm married to the leg cutaway, neck, and the degree of multiscale frets which limits me from having a broader opinion on other guitars with perhaps the Aristides headless line being the only thing similar. Learning about how you evaluate a guitar has been eye opening and helpful for my own consideration. If you'd like suggestions for future videos, I would like to see more consideration of the range of a line of guitars. For instance, My 2023 Standard NX 6 Tremolo is very nearly as good as my 2017 Prog 6 but, when new, is nearly $700 dollars less. I even find that I only reach for the Prog 6 when I become extra particular about extra warm tone from the bridge pickup, which makes the more affordable Standard NX 6 more like an alternative tool rather than a lesser guitar. And this comes in at 1300 as I bought it as B stock from Strandberg, which I believe closes the gap with Ibanez Premiums and Kiesel guitars. I'd also love to see a detailed video about your approach to guitar maintenance and why you selected certain types of products versus alternatives for things like fretboard conditioning and what not. Thank you again for your efforts and high quality content!
Thanks for doing these deep dive videos Andre. Been interested in these guitars for a while, so these have been invaluable series of reviews to follow through. I've only had a chance to try a Strandberg once. To my surprise, Enduro neck felt just right to my hands pretty much immediately. However, much like you, I didn't feel comfortable with fanned frets. So much so that I'm not considering Strandbergs, no matter how ergonomic and good they would be otherwise, before they offer models with non-fanned frets. So yea, maybe we do need the Andre Fludd inspired version at some point... 👍😉
Another comment I want to make. Thanks to your videos, I now play my guitars in the 45 degree position. Not sure why I didn't consider it before, but thanks a bunch! For me, though, it is more comfortable to play my Kiesel Zeus with it cradled between my legs like in a classical guitar position. Perhaps because my body is smaller (I'm a little over 5'9"). The Strandberg on my thigh doesn't sit quite right to be balanced given the angle of the leg rest contour. My Zeus cradles in quite nicely and is fun to play in that position. I totally agree with your point about the ergonomics, just interesting that the Zeus works better for me than the Strandberg in that playing position. I want to love the Strandberg, but it doesn't work quite as well for me as the Zeus. Also, on the Zeus I have the acoustic saddles in the bridge, which I love. Keep up the good work! I love what you are doing.
i used to work at guitar shops, we set up all our guitars, filed and knocked down any frets that stuck out, and you would be surprised how many guitars come from the factory with sprout. alot of times, the manufacturers claim it happens in shipping. i would assume guitar center would set up most of their guitars, especially the expensive ones.
@@andrefludd good. I really like the look of the Strindberg but the issue you bring up here make me think a little harder. I figure if I can get a basic one, maybe the rescued range I can see if I like them.
Can you get a classic OG Steinberger and see how it stacks up against the modern headless designs/hardware? I’m especially interested in hearing your thoughts about their bridge/locking systems.
Speaking as someone who got a Transtrem Steinberger in 1989, and who just got a Strandberg Salen Jazz at the beginning of this year: they're totally different beasts. The Transtrem is cool in the short term, but the parts eventually wear out so that it no longer transposes accurately. I don't know the details on getting that fixed, but it's a pretty common issue from what I understand. (I stopped using trems many years ago, so getting it tuned up hasn't been an issue for me.) I have the GM4T, with the "ghost of a strat" style body. It's solid maple, so it's *extremely* heavy - the heaviest solid-body I've owned, for sure. On the whole, I wouldn't say the guitar is *un*-ergonomic, but it's not a night-and-day level of difference in terms of feel and balance the way the Strandberg is. Also: the Steinberger neck is solid graphite composite, and doesn't have a truss rod (!), so what you get is what you get. It's nice not to have to worry about temperature/humidity changes, but you'd better like that basic neck profile! Awesome work as usual, Dr. Fludd. :)
Thank you for sharing your final judgement. Have thoroughly enjoyed this experiment! Maybe your next experiment could be about "digital" versus "analog" effects? Should one get a pedalboard together, or does it make more sense to go Neural DSP or Fractal et al?
My stand works well, it isn’t a Strandberg, but it is a very similar headless. It fits with a standard holder with the rubber holder so it doesn’t fall forward if hit.
Another benefit of a zero fret is that your open strings sound the same as fretted strings, because you don’t have a different material for the stopping point.
I recently looked for a rare, out-of-production guitar and there are few available, and they go for $7K+ used. While searching for this guitar, what showed up in my search results were several stores at aliexpress. I took a chance with $300, and got my set neck, abalone bound and abalone fret markers, guitar. Is it perfect? no. Needed a setup, intonation, and one volume pot needed tightening, new strings and good cleaning...and it works great, looks great, feels great, stays in tune, etc. Far better than I expected.
@@nunolance23 not going to be specific here; all I'll say it's a Japanese guitar maker, and one of their custom models / limited editions, no longer made.
I have an old school steinberger synapse and resolved the stand problem using a stand for Flying V or other funny shaped guitars, with adjustable “arms” that you can rotate and screw firmly on whichever height you need.
Great review Andre! It’s nice to see a review on a guitar that there was an extended amount of time spent with the instrument. There’s too many gear reviews out there where the person is paid by the company and do the review the day of receiving. What guitar center has the Strandbergs? I’m also from Jersey and have never seen one at a guitar center. Thanks man!
Ahh I figured you were going to say they were in NYC. I’ll have to take a drive one day soon. I’m right outside of AC so it’s a hike. Thanks man, great content as always!
Great review, man. I'm on the fence about Strandberg. However, I ordered my first Kiesel a few weeks ago. I ordered the Jason Becker numbers tribute guitar. I was thinking about a Vader as my next one.
I had strandbergs for years and still watched all the videos about it, great reviews! PS That Vigier Marilyn take me back in time to when I discovered Necrophagist and became an odd body guitars addicted (Suicmez had a black one), amazing in white!
Regarding your issue with the fanned fret: I feel like the reason is because the parallel fret on the strandberg is 0. Although the fan on a 6-str model is very subtle (25 to 25.5 if I recall correctly), having the parallel fret at the nut definitely makes it harder to play bar chords up high. I personally thing fan is advantages only (if done correctly), and strongly believe the best way to do the fan is to put the parallel on the 7th fret.
I say it all the time but I love your content, I appreciate all of the effort you put forward. Seems like everything you do in like you do 110% which isn’t a bad thing!
Thanks for the support! But I will say, it really is a gift and a curse. Can you imagine me picking socks to buy or god forbid a meal at a restaurant? At a new restaurant, I'll often buy 3 main courses just so I don't have to worry about regretting my order lmao. I do try to make sure I eat the other meals the following days.
@@andrefludd Oh man I didn’t even think about that! But I do hate regretting my order so I get where you are coming from lol. Either way, the gift shouldn’t be overlooked, from the fitness and diet to the guitar, it’s definitely cool to see.
Ola made a comment in an interview that the necks suffer the safe fate as most other guitars over time...the neck shrinks inward, and thus, the frets end up sticking out. Although you can minimize this, there's really no way to completely eliminate this issue right now, so you just have to take it to a good luthier to get the frets filed. Also, in regards to the bridge, they should make it to where you just thread the needle through the post insead of laying them on top, that why they wouldn't unseat when dive bombing. Would probably make it a pain to string tho.
I'd be curious to see what you think about Ormsby guitars. I'm Australian so I might be a bit biased but I think Ormsby gets slept on a lot, their guitars are gorgeous and play great.
Midway through the video and if you ever have the chance to try one the Ibanez quest seems it might me an interesting one to compare to the Strandbergs. Around $1k-1.2k, various models of 6 or 7 string, but some also have 8 degree angled frets which might be the comfortable spot between fanned and regular frets!
This is an absolutely brilliant breakdown of every aspect of the guitar brand. May be except chugging LOL I would like to see at least 20% as deep of a review from a metal player, especially from the ergonomics point of view. How much is it "chuggable" for extended periods of time, how comfortable is it and also how much of a shoulder tension can sum up after playing in lower positions (up to 5 fret) for a long time. I am tight on a budget and I am actually thinking of selling *all* my few guitars for the single Strandberg Original NX 6 with Suhr H-H pickups. Kind of afraid of putting all eggs in one basket, yet I am sure I'll love the neck and the ergonomics overall. I am a bedroom player in early 40s never being more than a beginner/intermediate in terms of skills, yet I'd like to change that. Also with time I tend to have less things, but closer to heart. I wanna believe Strandberg would be that *one* guitar close to the heart which I would stick with for a long long time. Haha, I didn't notice how I spoke too much almost. Anyway huge THANK YOU for the work you've done. I am more of a believer after watching these series. Love it!
There exists a tool, called a flush cutter. Might completely solve that string poke issue. Like diagonal cutters but meant to cut flush. They use them a lot with electronics
Your academic and honest approach to reviewing gear is highly appreciated and incredibly interesting. Amazing content.
Glad you like them!
This series is the alpha and the omega of guitar reviews. Awesome work!
Now all I need is a six-part course to educate me how one can convince one's spouse that purchasing such a high-end instrument is a splendid idea
I’ll get working on that one :). Thanks for supporting
1. Do the dishes
2. Cook for her more often
3. Compliment her often
4. Show patience in listening to her
5. Kiss her a lot
6. Admit your purchase to her!!
Good luck 😂
Just say to her "I got this one for a few quids. It's a defective unit, the guy at the assembly line forgot to attach the headstock" 😂
@@GuitarAddict101😂😂😂
Twenty years ago I persuaded my spouse that spending $5K on a 1916, sixteen string Gibson U-style Harp Guitar was a marvelous opportunity and a great deal. I am not a guitarist by almost any measure but I do passionately love these remarkable instruments..
Be careful what you wish for…
My wife is still fine with it - but as for me: yikes!
Andre, as some one who's seriously considering getting a Strandberg, thank you for the most in depth video review on the internet for these.
I’m glad someone finally got strandberg right. Everyone thinks they’re a metal guitar, but in reality they’re just the most comfortable playing production guitar available. I’ve sold some of my older students on strandberg on the comfort alone.
As a long time Strat player (Jeff Beck), I had reservations on Strandberg. I followed the company's improvements over the years and decided all or most of the prototyping had been complete. I ended up buying an NX6 sight unseen and could not have been more pleased. I must say that the Beck Strat with roller nut is brilliant as the string sits on hardened steel ball bearings making an ideal fulcrum point; however the Strandberg with zero fret is equally amazing, providing a playability I have never experienced. I'm fully pleased with price point and quality. Love your channel!
Thank you :)
Yeah, Eddy. I dont understand why the zero fret is not a part of most every guitar. Best i could ascertain is that it makes it hard to get high action, and it costs an extra nickel.
Carbon fibre really only has strength in tension, and with all materials it's proportional to the distance from the centre of the material. Most companies put the CF in the middle of the neck, in line with the truss rod. Parker puts it over the entire outside after carving it, and strandberg laminates it all the way through. Both of those are absolutely what people should be doing and why I'm now experimenting with carbon fibre in my personal projects. 🤘 Glad to hear it's stable, as it confirms my suspicions and the basic principles behind why a lot of carbon fibre is less of an improvement than the material properties suggest it would be. Things such as the bridge and whammy bar also have my brain turning, thanks for being so in depth, this stuff is like catnip for me especially as these guitars are very hard to come by down under.
Your style of reviewing guitars is nice; I've watched like 5 vids now I think I'm fully sold on your credibility. Which is a funny thing; I've barely heard any of your actual playing but the way you talk about the nuances of owning the instrument after 100 hours is an incredibly useful and awesome thing.
I appreciate that. There’s a couple playing videos up, but I will def have more this year. I’d like to hold myself accountable to atleaet one a month starting in March.
i would literally never watch an hour of a guitar review, but the absolute obsession of detail really makes me think this isn't a sales pitch, its a true real world review by someone who has actually lived with the instrument. Thank you
The Strandberg Experiment has been a huge deciding factor in me deciding to try them out. The depths you went to have been massively helpful. Thanks for making such a sick comprehensive series!
Thanks Jack! Love your channel BTW. Send me an email if you ever want to come on the podcast :).
@@andrefludd So sorry it took me so long to reply dude! I hate that I don’t get the right notifications from YT. That’s kind of you man, thank you! I’m a big fan of yours too. I’d be honoured to come on the podcast, I’ll be in touch 🙇🏻♂️
Really appreciate you doing in-depth content like this. You're a lot more discerning than I am, but this is super useful for people like me that have full-blown existential crises over large purchases like this. Thank you.
I'm glad it's helpful! These are indeed huge purchases and I make these videos because I wish they existed before I made my own purchases.
Regarding stands, Fender Universal A-frame Stand works great for me. You can adjust its "arms" height to fit the Strandberg shape precisely. And it's pretty cheap.
Hi Andre,
Thank you for all your effort in making these youtube videos.
As a guitar builder I really appreciate this thorough review of a guitar. Subscribed!
Simple honesty. What a rare commodity this has become. I completely enjoyed your breakdown on this guitar. In-depth, as well as hitting the most important points to consider whenever any of us in the guitar player experience need to openly discuss. We don't need the usual hype or empty claims. Well done, sir! Cheers and Happy Christmas! Brian Cooper, Shinkai Studio, Japan.
Thanks for your comment :)
Your diligence and thoroughness in this review is highly commendable. I have found the Strandbergs to be easy on me and I tend to pick them up first. I have small hands, and have no trouble at all with the endurneck or the radius. I also owned a heavier Parker - and Strandbergs have elements that remind me of the original Parker - maybe it is just the "strange" looking thing and the smoothness of the fretboard. Thank you very much!
Glad you madew this video!! Was considering a strandberg at one point but tbh fret issues at that pricepoint is a huuuuge turnoff for me
You are right when you said there is no other guitar review out there that comes close to yours. Amazing, awesome, thank you sir.
58:05 You are really good at this. I get that you don’t feel ready for a signature model yet, but I do think guitar manufacturers would be wise to work with you as a consultant on improving their designs. Dreaming bigger, Strandberg, Kiesel, D’Angelico etc. could release “Guitar Craft limited edition” models and then incorporate them into regular production if they sell well.
I appreciate that :)
The diagonal position allows greater range of motion, and while it seems ironic allows a larger stretch. Great videos!
I don’t think that anyone makes a guitar that fully works for you. Your skills and understanding and musical technique makes such a thing impossible. This is the curse that follows those who pursue expertise - and achieve it!
Still, even an amateur like me owes you a debt of gratitude for lending such insight into the art of understanding and playing the guitar…
Thanks - how cool to have access to a true genius - where else but RUclips..?
The plinking sound comes from a groove or divot wearing in the zero fret and the string getting stuck in the groove when bending strings. This also means that the string will start buzzing at some point because it's sitting lower in the zero fret as the groove gets bigger. Brian May had a zero fret on his guitar and he wore clean through the zero fret on some strings according to a luthier who worked on it. The luthier couldn't believe Brian could still play it!
Zero frets are widely used on nylon string guitars and obviously never wear grooves. And some acoustics don't wear grooves as quickly as electrics because of less string bending. Gibson and Kiezel both tried using zero frets but abandoned them because of issues with them.
Best guitar review I've seen so far, I really love the level of detail you go into!
I also strongly dislike the volume knob placement on Strat-style guitars; I think it's in that place because the guitar was meant to be played either more timidly or by strumming closer to the neck than the bridge, with the guitar higher up. With a playing technique like that, it's not really ever in the way, but close enough that you can keep playing while adjusting the volume. Keep in mind that the Strat was developed before effects pedals were really a thing, so controls on your guitar were pretty much all you had in the way of effects. It looks to me like Strandberg solved the issue by moving the pot just a little bit further toward the bridge.
Just wanted to say your content is top notch, keep doing what you do, you deserve all the subs and likes in the world!
Thank you :)
Holy smokes that Marilyn is incredible. Ive got mine coming soon - stoked to hear your thoughts on this guitar.
Ola Strandberg addressed the fret sprout problem in a post this morning on facebook.
"I completely understand that fret sprout is annoying in any guitar, but in an expensive guitar even more so. We do take measures to prevent this, and we have an active project running to take it to the next level, but the fact is that a metal fret doesn’t contract/expand with environmental conditions, but wood does. Further, combining a neck material that shrinks/swells and a fretboard material that doesn’t leads to a “bi-metal” effect. Filing fret ends to the point that they will never extend past the edge of the fretboard might lead to playability issues. Deadening a fretboard material to the point that it is stable (which is done on cheap guitars) will also deaden the sound. Assembling a guitar under one set of conditions, storing it in another, shipping it to a third, and finally exposing it to a variety of conditions due to changing seasons, air conditioning, electrical heating, and so on, is simply challenging. In designing our guitars, we have to balance all these things to deliver a product that meets your needs as players and performs to or beyond expectations. We take measures at the factory, in our arrival inspection, as well as in our pre-shipping inspection to make sure that no guitar leaves with fret sprout, but it’s still no guarantee that it doesn’t develop it during your ownership. As you can see in this thread, some people accept fret sprout and take care of it, others buy only used guitars that have lived past it, and others question it. I also question why it has to be this way, and am trying to solve it. Until then, you will have to choose what is important…"
Thanks for sharing. I've tried a used and a refurb strandberg direct from strandberg. Both above $3,000. Both with some degree of fret sprout. If it left the factory with fret sprout that goes against what he said. If it got fret sprout in the trip from where it was stored to my house, that would be very strange and even more concerning. These are also the only guitars I've tried used or new above $2,000 with fret sprout.
So this issue is another casualty of the tonewood war. Fretboard tonewood at that.
As I noted in your previous video, the Fender A-frame stand works perfectly for Strandberg guitars. The lower supports adjust up and down to accommodate the different height of the lower sides of the guitar. It also has an arm that holds the guitar in on the left side. If you want to hang it on the wall, skip the Strandberg wall hanger - it is $90 by the time you pay for shipping. Just get a basic String Swing wall hanger and turn the hanger forks upside down in the base. This holds the Strandberg head perfectly and securely. You can also use the forks in the standard position and bend them closer together to hold the head.
I too use the Fender Universal A-Frame Electric Guitar Stand with my Strandberg. Works great.
Another Fender stand user for a Strandberg.
If you get the ukulele String Swing hanger, it’s perfect for a Strandy
@@guitrr Someone said on Reddit that the uke holder from String Swing worked well.
Awesome channel man! Well, I still have my white Steinberger I bought in 1994 as a Holdsworth SUPER FAN ... back then 5000 Deutsche Mark OMG ....
When you really play guitar for hours a day with honest practice, every tiny detail of the guitar becomes apparent. I appreciate a review that goes over all those small details. Your style of review is my favorite already, and I hope your channel continues to see growth from this review! I've mentioned Abasi guitars but would also be curious on your experience if any of a PRS custom 24. Cheers to you man!
Thank you! Abasi is on the list as is PRS. I have. Dgt se on order. I can’t see myself buying a core though. I just can’t afford it.
@@andrefludd I look forward to those reviews!
You're missing a step when restringing that will fix the string ends poking out. After you clip the string, unlock that string lock and allow the string to pull just inside the string lock, then retune. This completely eliminates the string poking out.
On the NX, bend the string up then clip the string. The nub will fall in between the teeth and no longer be an issue.
Hey Andre, I have a K&M Heli 2 A-frame guitar stand which works well for my Strandberg Boden Classic. When sitting on the stand, the strap button on the top bout does come very close to the floor, but it doesn’t touch. Of course, the stand also works great for more traditional body shapes, and it folds flat and very compact for bringing it to a rehearsal or gig. Thanks for the in depth vid!
Once again your videos are the best, you are nearly as picky as me and that's comforting lol. I did want to mention that I have a Boden 7string bought new August 2021 for $2600 and I am indeed experiencing frett sprout, very disappointing. Regarding the bridge I keep it on the lower post setting because it is more subtle and I believe contributes to the tuning stability. But when I pull up on the wammy I quickly hit a physical wall and I can only increase the pitch one semitone. When you raise the bridge to position 2 this increases the range when pulling up on the wammy (I believe that's where you said you had some confusion as to why even have two settings). The tuning stability of the neck is phenomenal and the bridge, when compared to a Floyd (like on my esp) is in a league of its own in terms of tuning stability, set up, string changes. Interestingly I use elixr 9-42s on all my guitars and I never had that problem getting the bridge to float. Also after my initial setup in '21 I haven't had to adjust intonation or the spring tension at all when I change strings the bridge just keeps doin its thing (did not expect that before purchase). My only regret was not going with the neck through model which was available when I purchased this one, but it is now extremely hard to find and only second hand. I think maybe they didn't have a seven string neckthrough and also I'm fond of the fishmans, but I should have went with the neckthrough. One last thing: Andre you really got me hyped on the performaxe, I went to buy one after I saw that video, but they have been out of stock for weeks and I can't even find a used one... Shame! Haha
First I want to thank you for taking the time to do this in depth review! You earned a new subscriber. I’ve been on the fence about ordering a Strandberg for a while and this series definitely helped me make a decision. I love when channels like yours help consumers make an informed decision.
I’m not sure if anyone else has mentioned this, but regarding the issue with strings poking out the top- I’ve owned a headless Kiesel and the way I’d get around this issue is measuring the string out to where it would be flush with the hardware and cutting it before I put the string on. Then I’d take a small file and file away any excess. I’ll admit it was a bit of a pain but this seemed to resolve the issue completely.
Thanks for the support! Yes, I do the same thing with the strandberg. I mention it in episode 1 but forgot to restate in the conclusion. Are you going to get a strandberg? If so, which model?
Ahh sorry! Must have missed that in the first video.
I think I’ve landed on the Metal NX 6. I’m a big fan of multiscale guitars and this one seems to fit my style.
@@xiiieternal Great choice. I don't link some of the colors for that model, but others are pretty netural. More importantly, the fishman pickups w/ the strandberg's quick attack is going to be \m/.
Strandberg makes a floor stand. I had one, back when I still had Strandberg guitars. The Stand even fits in the gigbag front pocket.
Andre, Really loving your channel. You really put in the time and I hope to see your channel keep growing. You deserve it! 😁🤘
Thanks Matt! I really appreciate that :).
This was easily the best guitar review ever posted on youtube and must viewing for anyone considering the purchase of a Strandberg. Phenomenal work, Dr. Fludd. Can't wait for the next series.
Maybe I should make that the title "Best guitar review on youtube." lol just kidding. Can you imagine the hate that would attract for a 1 hour video where I barely play.
@@andrefludd If you did, it wouldn't be a lie. This is as close as you can get to actually owning a Strandberg.
This series has been fantastic. Highly informative and very entertaining. I look forward to the next!
Outstanding comprehensive review. Thank you!
Thanks for these detailed feature review sharing, I'm looking into headless guitars right now and I learnt a lot from you!!!
This was great Andre! After 20 years of playing flamenco i wanted to relive my youth and dug out my strat, ugh. I hate even holding it lol. This looks interesting just from the ergos.
Hi Andre, I intend to buy your course because you're I'm keen to relearn my basic knowledge of theory as well.
Thank you for making it so affordable. I look forward to try it . Thank you for all the work you put in! I appreciate you Andre! keep it up :)
Hope to see you there!
@andrefludd Okay you got me Andre! I do still want your course I just got a bit distracted haha. Anyway should be buying it in the next few days:)
You continue to think about aspects of a guitar that I tend to overlook but that's what makes this series great. I hope a manufacturer takes you up on your offer to do consultative work on a future guitar. I would love an in-depth look at Kiesel, I'll leave the model up to you. Great work as always!
Such a great, thorough review. Not much I'd disagree with, though I've never hit the knobs when I strum, ever, lol. Fun almost going through this journey with you as you released the episodes. My review:
Cons I personally care about: Trem loosening is a little annoying. No proper stand is annoying (I saw a comment below about A-frame, I use an Amazon basics one, but have to tilt it in a specific way for it to balance and stand). For my small body size the strap isn't short enough to have it stay in nerdy position and wished it was. I don't find the tones on my boden standard nx particularly inspiring but not bothersome per se. Rough frets, I think mine might have a tiny fret level issue too. Don't love playing barre chords on it but it's no biggie on the big-of-a-deal meter.
Pros: I love supporting innovative design, can't argue Ola pushed the industry forward by a lot. Lightweight and never accidentally hit headstock on desk (I do this all the time). Ergonomics, comfort in any position for a long time, my back/neck/wrist thanks strandberg. Endurneck naturally puts my hand and wrist in optimal positions--I notice how I grip my other guitars have changed for the better! Recently noticed I'd do a grip on normal medium C ish neck and then shift to how I'd grip on Endurneck instead and it's more comfortable/relaxed. (Also agree it somehow feels thin but it's also not?!) The upper flat surface is actually comfortable to push thumb against for certain things too. It improves my technique somehow!
Your thoughts about the Endurneck highlighted and helped process my own thoughts, so thanks for that! I've also thought about: (1) whether I should sell it and then buy another Strandberg later, when they've fixed some issues and I have more moneys, and/or I buy a higher model in the future (Salen Jazz so nice with the f hole) which will less likely have fret issues?! Though I assume you also felt fret edges on a variety of models at your GC. And 2) whether I should get frets rolled off and levelled properly...I'm on the fence, already so much money spent on it.
For now, overall, many small, annoying things, but the huge advantages of incredible ergonomics and potential of improving my technique is winning me over. Let me know what you think!
54:02 I agree that Kiesel should offer an ergonomic body shape! That and the pickups seem so high gain/shredder/metal and I’m the complete opposite of that. But Kiesels and their level of customization intrigue me.
I’ve heard people say Strandbergs are classier and more understated in their finish, while Kiesels are finished like shiny day-glo popsicles. (Cue me saying, “and that’s a BAD thing?” 🤭)
For me personally? I would love if there was a way to spawn a cross between a Strandberg and a Kiesel, so I could have the Kiesel neck and aqua sparkle California burst finish (because I’m extra) but the ergonomic, slightly smaller Strandberg body and pickups.
Thanks for your thorough review and for answering my question! You answered exactly what I wanted to know - if the playability, especially now that you’ve logged so many hours on it, better, it isn’t enough to overcome the emotional attachment and memories and design and everything good about your number 1.
Nostalgia and emotional attachment is real and it’s valuable and I appreciate your acknowledgement of that! 🥰
Strandberg was having some quality issues - particularly with fret finishing - a couple of years back. However, I believe they have addressed this and I bought a new Prog NX and it passes the nylon sock Phil McKnight test with a 5/5. Richlite really helps this because it is not temp sensitive.
My Metal NX's frets are very good as well.
Mr. Fludd, you are such a great speaker … and smart, of course. I am sure you are a great teacher. Thank you for your videos.
Fludd* but thank you for your comment :)
@@andrefludd d’oh! It was autocorrect, I swear! Edited. You are the opposite of fluff - and mystery woman should be very proud! I wish my wife was a legendary guitarist!
Even though fret sprout might be impossible to prevent entirely, I think most of the discomfort could be avoided if the bottom edges of the fret ends were rounded somewhat before the frets are pressed all the way down into the slots. After all, even without fret sprout the fret ends are still sticking out from the wood (by design), albeit it in a direction perpendicular to the fretboard. This doesn't feel uncomfortable simply because the tops and sides of the fret ends have been filed smooth.
I actually took care of the issue on one of my guitars by (WARNING!!! If anyone wants to try this, be extra careful not to create tool marks in the wood) holding the fret end file almost parallel to the neck and focusing mostly on rounding the protruding bottom edges of the fret ends instead of trying to remove all the material sticking out. I must say this worked beautifully, and made the guitar feel really comfortable to play again despite it still having some "fret sprout", technically speaking. (However, I noticed afterwards that I had made some ugly scratches in the wood with the file, but this should be avoidable with proper precautions and some practice.)
What a review! You really covered everything, and I think you have found out what YOU need in a guitar! That is a hard journey!
Finding a guitar that not only speaks to you, but is comfortable for you as well? That is HARD to do.
great Job Andre.
Thank you! But I still think I need a b3…I priced one out couple days ago and it was around 5,000. I just can’t justify it right now lol.
@@andrefludd That IS a steep price, bro. I just checked them out...and I can see why. Sometimes I wonder if there is ONE guitar out there that will do everything I need. I would sell all of my guitars for THAT guitar.
But I need one that nails a Strat tone and feel for Blues and Neo Soul. I need one that works for heavy metal. I need a Trem system. I like actives...but sometimes need passives.
Why do I have 10 guitars? I NEED each of them!
I bought an used J6 and been playing it for 3 months. J series have neck binding so there were no rough edge issue, I also use my thumb alot for chords. The problem I had was 1. it will take me a while to get used to any other guitar after play it 2. the stainless steel fret and stock SD pickups made it sound a bit too modern for my taste 3. find it harder to play chords on higher frets given the fret design.
Still highly recommand to try, it will make your guitar playing improve overnight...
Happy to see you still have your Parker. Besides my P-42, I have a Strandberg clone (Eart), and love it, and it doesn't have the issues you mentioned - no string ends protruding, no sharp frets. Frets are stainless steel, action is great with zero fret. Lacks a trem, but I don't use a trem very much and I don't finger pick. No fan frets. All in all, not perfect (no place to put my clip-on tuner), but it only cost me $330 brand new!
For anyone who can’t find a stand solution for the Strandberg, Zither’s floating stand for a guitar works, but instead of using the standard guitar wall hanger hook replace it with a ukulele one. I have two of those stands, and changed the hooks and it works perfectly for my 2 Strandberg guitars.
Monumental work Andre! :) Been keeping an eye on this project as someone who hates the look but loves the idea of these guitars.
Thank you :)
Excellent detailed review of the brand, and thanks for mentioning our comment on the fret ends. I am sure they will get it right over time. Even with that, I am going to buy another one as that neck is just sooooo playable. Maybe a semi hollow one?
Yea, those look beautiful. I’d get one if they had floating bridges
Fender came out with the small neck radius of 7.25" or 9.5" on most of their guitars so that is the only place that comes from. Not only does a small radius neck not help me do barre chords it also makes string bending that doesn't fret out really tough! You can't have both low action and good string bending on a low radius neck! That's why all the speed necks with super low action have large radiuses.
wonderful review Andre!
Watched a number of your videos and while you are not a fan of fanned frets, do they actually aid in intonation and staying in tune while fretting notes? You did the comparison with straight frets and True Tune, but I don't see a reference to the efficacy of fanned frets aiding in the compensation of inherit tuning issues related to fretted instruments.
Love the in depth analysis, love what you do here!
1) I love your channel
2) you don't need to justify your nitpicking, it's part of your brand.
3)that said, fret sprout is an issue with wood shrinkage due to necks not being stored at the proper humidity. It doesn't have to do with fret-dressing. If your gripe is with strandberg because they claim their necks don't swell or shrink, then feel free to ignore this. But if you believe it has to do with the set-up/finishing work, read up. It's most often due to whole-saler/transit/dealer/owner storage conditions. I would evaluate who you purchase strandbergs from before I levy that particular gripe at strandberg themselves. The fact that the new strandberg wall at your local GC doesn't have those issues all but makes my case. I've never bought a guitar from my local GC or Sam Ash for this reason. Though I cant afford any guitars a Lark here in San Antonio, I have never seen fret sprout on a single instrument in 5 years of living in this city.
1B) I reiterate, I love your channel, after hearing how you look up to these other RUclipsrs on another episode, I am pulling for you because, your nitpickery(?) Combined with your honesty about your situation and the reasons you think the way you do make you the most valuable gear resource for the average player, at least in my mind. So I hope you don't take offense to my comment or think that I'm trying to start something. I'm a more analog than digital singer/songwriter non shredder who is just good enough as a hired gun to stay working when my voice is less than stellar. Your thought process makes you priceless and/but knowledge is your super power. With the things that you get hung up on, boning up on your luthier-related guitar knowledge would elevate what your trying to do in my opinion.
4)In the spirit of your awesome big-of-a-deal meter and Adam Grant's 'think again' (great book that indirectly yet wholly supports your meter) my last is my opinion, and I could be convinced otherwise if the evidence is sound ;)
Keep doing what you do! It's really awesome! And if you agree with the luthier stuff, stew mac's channel has been a resource for me for years saving money on guitar set ups
Have a good day:)
Thanks for this comment. The length suits the length of the video! I really appreciate viewers like you who give me things to think about!
@@andrefludd "the length suits the video " lol indeed!
Thanks for showing my question
Thanks for asking it
loving it, u seem honest, big ups!
Love the video, thank you for making this!
Another great thorough review with an interesting discussion of various features, and what you like / don't like. One of my favorite YT guitar channels, too bad the YT guitar community is so slow to realize it; please keep doing what you're doing and more with discover your channel.
I left off my point in my last post as I blathered on...I keep finding usable guitars that are well made, decent+ fit and finish, that work, sound and feel great for the price, some much better than I expected for the price like my aliexpress "special". 😁
Nothing wrong with buying more expensive guitars, I own several, three are my favorites; for what I paid for my less expensive guitars (under $1K, some under $300) it has to be something I think is really worth the money when I get to $2500 or above.
Insane and awesome review. Personally love my Strandberg.
Thank you!
First time finding your channel. Great stuff!
Thank you!
Best guitar review i have even seen. great work
Thank you :)
Great review! I've been learning a lot from your channel/videos! Hope to see some GOC headless guitar reviews soonl :)
Thanks for supporting! That one’s been requested a lot. Hopefully I can by the end of the year.
This is already a great review, but I wanted to chime in and say that the PRS model you’re thinking of is the Mark Holcomb model and its 20” radius!
I understand perfectly the right angle issue on the locking nut. I've had guitars with Floyd Rose locking nuts that gave me the exact same issue. I even went so far as to sand the edges down to try and alleviate some of the discomfort, but it's a major reason why I don't like locking nut systems.
What can I say except: you did it again! Another fantastic, in depth, and honest review of an instrument!
I have been a fan of Strandbergs for years, but was too unsure about making the purchase (the price points for these guitars already start a bit expensive at $1500, and then ramp up to around 7k here in Japan), and this experiment really helps one to make a concrete, informed decision with your help!
I personally twould have liked to have heard your thoughts on the tuning mechanisms a bit more, as I’m a slow learner lol, but here is to an excellent experiment: well done, Doc! Thank you!
Please discuss the Vigier Marilyn behind you one day if possible!
Thank you!
Firstly, I just want to say that I really appreciate your dedication to your reviews. I found you through the Strandberg experiment, but you've introduced me to many other guitars that I wouldn't have considered otherwise like the Parker guitars.
I own three Strandbergs, and unfortunately I'm married to the leg cutaway, neck, and the degree of multiscale frets which limits me from having a broader opinion on other guitars with perhaps the Aristides headless line being the only thing similar. Learning about how you evaluate a guitar has been eye opening and helpful for my own consideration.
If you'd like suggestions for future videos, I would like to see more consideration of the range of a line of guitars. For instance, My 2023 Standard NX 6 Tremolo is very nearly as good as my 2017 Prog 6 but, when new, is nearly $700 dollars less. I even find that I only reach for the Prog 6 when I become extra particular about extra warm tone from the bridge pickup, which makes the more affordable Standard NX 6 more like an alternative tool rather than a lesser guitar. And this comes in at 1300 as I bought it as B stock from Strandberg, which I believe closes the gap with Ibanez Premiums and Kiesel guitars.
I'd also love to see a detailed video about your approach to guitar maintenance and why you selected certain types of products versus alternatives for things like fretboard conditioning and what not.
Thank you again for your efforts and high quality content!
Thank you for your kind words and for your suggestions!
Thanks for doing these deep dive videos Andre. Been interested in these guitars for a while, so these have been invaluable series of reviews to follow through. I've only had a chance to try a Strandberg once. To my surprise, Enduro neck felt just right to my hands pretty much immediately. However, much like you, I didn't feel comfortable with fanned frets. So much so that I'm not considering Strandbergs, no matter how ergonomic and good they would be otherwise, before they offer models with non-fanned frets. So yea, maybe we do need the Andre Fludd inspired version at some point... 👍😉
Crazy-awesome channel!!!!! Subscribed!
I was at the Thomann center and played a Strandberg fusion an maaan it had also a lot of sharp ends
What a shame.
Excellent review as always…I ordered the NX6 hardtail…its on its way…I would have liked to tried one before buying but whatcha gonna do👍
Another comment I want to make. Thanks to your videos, I now play my guitars in the 45 degree position. Not sure why I didn't consider it before, but thanks a bunch! For me, though, it is more comfortable to play my Kiesel Zeus with it cradled between my legs like in a classical guitar position. Perhaps because my body is smaller (I'm a little over 5'9"). The Strandberg on my thigh doesn't sit quite right to be balanced given the angle of the leg rest contour. My Zeus cradles in quite nicely and is fun to play in that position. I totally agree with your point about the ergonomics, just interesting that the Zeus works better for me than the Strandberg in that playing position. I want to love the Strandberg, but it doesn't work quite as well for me as the Zeus. Also, on the Zeus I have the acoustic saddles in the bridge, which I love. Keep up the good work! I love what you are doing.
i used to work at guitar shops, we set up all our guitars, filed and knocked down any frets that stuck out, and you would be surprised how many guitars come from the factory with sprout. alot of times, the manufacturers claim it happens in shipping. i would assume guitar center would set up most of their guitars, especially the expensive ones.
Great video my man lots of detail here
I have a 1 year update coming :)
@@andrefludd good. I really like the look of the Strindberg but the issue you bring up here make me think a little harder. I figure if I can get a basic one, maybe the rescued range I can see if I like them.
Can you get a classic OG Steinberger and see how it stacks up against the modern headless designs/hardware? I’m especially interested in hearing your thoughts about their bridge/locking systems.
I’d love to. I want to try one with a trans trem but I can afford to buy one
@@andrefludd yeah the prices on those have gone up like crazy.
Speaking as someone who got a Transtrem Steinberger in 1989, and who just got a Strandberg Salen Jazz at the beginning of this year: they're totally different beasts.
The Transtrem is cool in the short term, but the parts eventually wear out so that it no longer transposes accurately. I don't know the details on getting that fixed, but it's a pretty common issue from what I understand. (I stopped using trems many years ago, so getting it tuned up hasn't been an issue for me.)
I have the GM4T, with the "ghost of a strat" style body. It's solid maple, so it's *extremely* heavy - the heaviest solid-body I've owned, for sure. On the whole, I wouldn't say the guitar is *un*-ergonomic, but it's not a night-and-day level of difference in terms of feel and balance the way the Strandberg is.
Also: the Steinberger neck is solid graphite composite, and doesn't have a truss rod (!), so what you get is what you get. It's nice not to have to worry about temperature/humidity changes, but you'd better like that basic neck profile!
Awesome work as usual, Dr. Fludd. :)
I've had a headless guitar for a couple decades now and I've found that for stands, a small A frame stand (that just holds the body) work great.
I ordered a b-stock nx6. Im extremely excited
The big deal-o-meter is such a clever add man👌
Thank you for sharing your final judgement. Have thoroughly enjoyed this experiment!
Maybe your next experiment could be about "digital" versus "analog" effects? Should one get a pedalboard together, or does it make more sense to go Neural DSP or Fractal et al?
I’m literally already doing that experiment lol. It’s on the channel.
My stand works well, it isn’t a Strandberg, but it is a very similar headless. It fits with a standard holder with the rubber holder so it doesn’t fall forward if hit.
Another benefit of a zero fret is that your open strings sound the same as fretted strings, because you don’t have a different material for the stopping point.
I recently looked for a rare, out-of-production guitar and there are few available, and they go for $7K+ used.
While searching for this guitar, what showed up in my search results were several stores at aliexpress.
I took a chance with $300, and got my set neck, abalone bound and abalone fret markers, guitar. Is it perfect? no. Needed a setup, intonation, and one volume pot needed tightening, new strings and good cleaning...and it works great, looks great, feels great, stays in tune, etc. Far better than I expected.
Which brand was that?
@@nunolance23 not going to be specific here; all I'll say it's a Japanese guitar maker, and one of their custom models / limited editions, no longer made.
Fantastic review. Subbed!
I have an old school steinberger synapse and resolved the stand problem using a stand for Flying V or other funny shaped guitars, with adjustable “arms” that you can rotate and screw firmly on whichever height you need.
Great review Andre! It’s nice to see a review on a guitar that there was an extended amount of time spent with the instrument. There’s too many gear reviews out there where the person is paid by the company and do the review the day of receiving. What guitar center has the Strandbergs? I’m also from Jersey and have never seen one at a guitar center. Thanks man!
14th street in Manhattan! They have a lot to stuff. The SamAsh on 34th also has a good selection. But no strandbergs.
Ahh I figured you were going to say they were in NYC. I’ll have to take a drive one day soon. I’m right outside of AC so it’s a hike. Thanks man, great content as always!
Great review, man. I'm on the fence about Strandberg. However, I ordered my first Kiesel a few weeks ago. I ordered the Jason Becker numbers tribute guitar. I was thinking about a Vader as my next one.
With you on the fan frets.
21:38 "mystery girl"... i haven't caught that before. awesome. 😊
I had strandbergs for years and still watched all the videos about it, great reviews! PS That Vigier Marilyn take me back in time to when I discovered Necrophagist and became an odd body guitars addicted (Suicmez had a black one), amazing in white!
Regarding your issue with the fanned fret: I feel like the reason is because the parallel fret on the strandberg is 0. Although the fan on a 6-str model is very subtle (25 to 25.5 if I recall correctly), having the parallel fret at the nut definitely makes it harder to play bar chords up high.
I personally thing fan is advantages only (if done correctly), and strongly believe the best way to do the fan is to put the parallel on the 7th fret.
I say it all the time but I love your content, I appreciate all of the effort you put forward. Seems like everything you do in like you do 110% which isn’t a bad thing!
Thanks for the support! But I will say, it really is a gift and a curse. Can you imagine me picking socks to buy or god forbid a meal at a restaurant? At a new restaurant, I'll often buy 3 main courses just so I don't have to worry about regretting my order lmao. I do try to make sure I eat the other meals the following days.
@@andrefludd Oh man I didn’t even think about that! But I do hate regretting my order so I get where you are coming from lol. Either way, the gift shouldn’t be overlooked, from the fitness and diet to the guitar, it’s definitely cool to see.
Ola made a comment in an interview that the necks suffer the safe fate as most other guitars over time...the neck shrinks inward, and thus, the frets end up sticking out. Although you can minimize this, there's really no way to completely eliminate this issue right now, so you just have to take it to a good luthier to get the frets filed.
Also, in regards to the bridge, they should make it to where you just thread the needle through the post insead of laying them on top, that why they wouldn't unseat when dive bombing. Would probably make it a pain to string tho.
I'd be curious to see what you think about Ormsby guitars. I'm Australian so I might be a bit biased but I think Ormsby gets slept on a lot, their guitars are gorgeous and play great.
Midway through the video and if you ever have the chance to try one the Ibanez quest seems it might me an interesting one to compare to the Strandbergs.
Around $1k-1.2k, various models of 6 or 7 string, but some also have 8 degree angled frets which might be the comfortable spot between fanned and regular frets!
Check out episode 2 if you get a chance! I explain why I'm not reviewing the quest ruclips.net/video/FLC63J7uX7c/видео.html.
This is an absolutely brilliant breakdown of every aspect of the guitar brand. May be except chugging LOL I would like to see at least 20% as deep of a review from a metal player, especially from the ergonomics point of view. How much is it "chuggable" for extended periods of time, how comfortable is it and also how much of a shoulder tension can sum up after playing in lower positions (up to 5 fret) for a long time. I am tight on a budget and I am actually thinking of selling *all* my few guitars for the single Strandberg Original NX 6 with Suhr H-H pickups. Kind of afraid of putting all eggs in one basket, yet I am sure I'll love the neck and the ergonomics overall. I am a bedroom player in early 40s never being more than a beginner/intermediate in terms of skills, yet I'd like to change that. Also with time I tend to have less things, but closer to heart. I wanna believe Strandberg would be that *one* guitar close to the heart which I would stick with for a long long time. Haha, I didn't notice how I spoke too much almost. Anyway huge THANK YOU for the work you've done. I am more of a believer after watching these series. Love it!
Thank you :). More chugging soon.
There exists a tool, called a flush cutter.
Might completely solve that string poke issue. Like diagonal cutters but meant to cut flush. They use them a lot with electronics
As soon as you were talking about fret sprout I thought of my two composite fretboard instruments and then your text popped up on the screen. 😂
I think you have a very bright future in this community bro. 💯💯
I appreciate that!
I just use the generic stand which the bottom U-shape am can rotate for my Strandberg, it kind of ato rotates itself to the right angle