Yup, with you on Fender at #1 here. Back in the '90s, a MIM Fender was pretty much the go-to for everyone. Nearly every music store had them, they were within reach for most of us price-wise, and they were solid, giggable instruments. Not much has changed in 30 years...in fact, I think the MIM line has only gotten better with time.
I was recently looking at getting a Jaguar. I was specifically interested in the Player Series Jaguar. I went to a store to check them out because they had 3. All 3 had frets that would cut your hand as did most of the other MIM Fenders there. The pickups were ok but nothing fantastic. I played lots of guitars that day, Gibsons, Epiphones, high end Squiers, and the MIM Fenders. The Fenders were the only ones with such horrific fret sprout and poorly done frets, so much so that the Squiers I played felt way better. I only played the higher end Squiers but still. I asked the store about it and they told me that they see this problem every year with Fenders, a few months every year where the frets are done poorly. They told me it wouldn't cost all that much to have them fix the frets up but for a $900 new guitar that's kind of ridiculous. They had some new Gibsons for 100 bucks more, they were perfect with absolutely fantastic pickups. . The Squiers were perfect, the Epiphones were perfect. Its been years since I've played a MIM Fender but they didn't seem as good as I remembered them as. I wasn't a fan of the pickups on the older MIM but they felt better than the ones I played recently.
@@ChrisEck13 In my opinion, no store should put a guitar that costs that much out for sale until they fixed them. Send them back to Fender, or fix them in-house. It makes Fender and the store look bad. It's like selling a new car with a flat tire.
@@TexanUSMC8089 I do think they should probably be sent back to Fender. But with the amount of MIM Fenders that have horrible fret sprout recently, I don't really think this would solve the issue. I'm sure Fender is aware, it's been a pretty common topic of talk recently and if any of their reps ever visit dealers they will see for themselves. I do think that dealers have some responsibility in regards to what they're selling and letting the customers know of issues, but I don't think that a dealer should have to fix frets on every Fender they receive and even if they did, the problem is likely to come back. Fender really needs to start drying out their woods and using higher quality woods. I haven't seen this issue on high end Squiers, Epiphones, Gibsons, USA Fenders or any other brands. It's only the ultra budget guitars and MIM Fenders
I'd say you were pretty spot on with this list! I was happy to see Schecter come is as high as it did. I have a $600 C-1 platinum sitting directly to my left and it's one of my favorite guitars! Loving these ranking vids!! Stay safe and healthy Phil!!
This is one of my all time favorite RUclips channels for reviews and info. Phil never wastes my time, comes at everything in an honest and easy to follow manner and I really love the way he keeps an eye on value. I've bought a few brands based on his high ratings and I've yet to be disappointed. Just popped on a Schecter PT Special because of the many positive things Phil has said about Schecters. Thanks as always!
“These lists seem to be really popular...they’re fun to make so they must be fun to watch?” Conveniently leaves out the point of consistently providing top tier content and information with a humble and down to earth approach that everyone can appreciate. Well done, as always, Phil 🤘
Lists are popular because they summarize as much as possible. It's easier for people to find what they want to hear for a given product and it gives people confidence on where their potential purchase ranks on a chart. (Also a lot of people like to show up post-purchase to validate it too lol)
This list was especially exciting. It also will made me sweat with the air conditioner running. My brain did not know what to do. Buy, buy, buy! Really appreciate the work you put into these Phil.
The biggest guitar shop round here laughed at me when I asked if they carried any ESP LTD as if it were below them. Went elsewhere to buy my LTD Snakebyte and it is one of the best guitars I've ever played over my 25yrs of (amateur) playing.
I got an LTD Eclipse last year and it's my favorite guitar I've owned. Top notch features, the neck is really comfortable, and personally I think they've got the best LP-style body shape. I just ordered an Arrow (which is their offset V equivalent) as an early midlife crisis guitar, and I'm eagerly looking forward to trying it out.
I've gotten the same treatment before. Between 2011 and 2018 guitar shops and music stores would shame anyone who didn't own a Gibson/epiphone or a fender/Squier. The reason being is that the immense level of competition at many different price points makes it hard for guitar shops to make easy money. Especially when the major brands like fender and D'angelico are giving huge kickback to guitar center.
Godin is #1 in my opinion. Although it’s all subjective on fit and finish and feel, the fact that they are made in Canada makes it #1 for me. The feel of their Stadium and Passion series rivals the fender customs shop but for a fraction of the price.
Fender imports have always been amazing. I've owned a player strat, an earlier Mexican tele (2003 or so, I think?), and a Japanese strat, and they were all killer.
My first electric guitar was a MIM Strat. Never sold it and I find myself playing it much more than my other, more expensive guitars I have since purchased. I think you are spot on... you can’t go wrong with MIM Fender product for the price.
Have A 97 MIM start I bought used at a guitar show for $300 bucks. It was my first guitar. Put about $100 bucks into if swapping out the bridge pick-up for a hummbucker and getting it set up properly. Luv that thing. Great little home use axe.
Great list Phil. Love my Godin but to add weight to it’s inclusion on both import lists, a lot of their guitars are handmade still in Canada at their Quebec factories. My Radium is a good example as well as I believe the Radiator models. Easily some of the best guitars I’ve played (ok, I may be biased being a Canadian 😂).
The Fender FSR Made in Japan guitars are excellent for $899 if you like vintage-spec guitars. I have 2 Japanese FSR Teles and their craftsmanship is superb, IMO.
Great list! I’d personally switch the Fender and Schecter. For instance, my Schecter Nick Johnston Diamond DESTROYS every Player model I’ve ever played. Just holding them... not even playing them... the Schecters feel like a much higher priced guitar, especially compared to the Players. Plug them in and the quality is even more apparent. Either way, still a great list. Keep it up!
@Quiksilver To each their own. The NJ Diamonds are $699-$799 in the States, so no, the price doesn't kill anything here. They come ready to play with locking tuners, consistently beautiful fretwork, great pups, and a fit-and-finish at least as nice as my American Pro Tele and Lincoln Brewster Strat (both of which are amazing). Why on earth points would be lost because it's a signature model is beyond me, but as I said, it was just an example. Pick up whatever Schecter you want in this price range--same. 🤷🏻♂️
@@DougHinVA There are a ton of great deals out there. Moreover, if someone does want a new one, retailers (SW, MF, etc.) can often get 15%+ off from Schecter if you ask them. Either way, hard to go wrong with anything in the top ten of his list.
@Quiksilver Wow! KILLS and SLAUGHTERS. 🤦🏻♂️ Dude, chill. Didn't mean to poke your fanboi. I said it was an example of a Schecter that, in my experience, plays and feels superior to the half-dozen or so Fender Player models I've played. Schecter makes plenty of other guitars at this price point. And if my European friends have to pay more, that's too bad, but it's irrelevant to my opinion, as in the States they are $699-$799 and easily found for 10-15% less--that is, about the same price as a Fender Player model over here. 🤷🏻♂️ Personally, I really like the rings in the board, so if you feel the need to go all Boomer on another one of my personal opinions, take a whack at that for awhile. 🤣 👋🏻
I don’t think any guitar destroys another . The reason Guitar Acquisition Syndrome is so prevalent is because there are so many great guitars out there. They’re all good in their own ways .
15:08 - Because of you I bought the Ibanez RGRT421 which is very impressive for the low price ($400). I switched the pickups to Seymour Duncan Black Winter, so in total, I paid $600 for amazing quality. I couldn't afford a Solar guitar, but I'm very happy with the Ibanez.
I bought a Ibanez Rg6003fm Guitar Center Musicians Friend special brand new for 275 and that has wizard III neck fast playing light guitar with Quantum Humbuckers. Love this thing go to player
Can't wait for the over 1K list. My Fender Jim Root Tele is still my favorite player and it opened the door to me when I purchase now. MIM guitars are no longer scary to me.
I couldn't give an opinion to most guitars on your list. I have not got my hands on them. However, I've owned multiple Reverend guitars. I've NEVER been dissatisfied. Reverend makes great stuff. I'm happy to see them in the top three. For me, they stand up to bigger name brands that can be significantly more expensive. I've experienced this first hand.
Love my 2017 MIM Fender Player Limited Edition...aged and black\black. On sale, I paid $499 (couldn't pass that up). And, plays "as good" in my opinion as the American version. Good choice for #1.
I had to take my first SE Standard 24 back, that was box fresh. It was actually better than the replacement bar a small section where the lacquer was lifting on the side of the neck and would have just broken away quickly.
My first PRS was an SE Standard Indonesia (lowest price point). IT went back to PRS for a number of problems, the worst of them was the neck kept moving. I had to adjust the neck weekly. I firmly believe there was an issue with the truss rod. I have bought three2014 Korean SE's that have been fantastic guitars, another Indonesian (2019 Paul's Guitar) which was also fantastic, and most recently 2020 USA CE (nicest guitar I have). I almost swore off PRS after the problem with the first one, but I'm glad I changed my mind.
Christopher Nicoll Sorry to hear about your troubles...I bought an Indonesian made PRS SE Custom 24 for dirt cheap from Proaudiostar a few months ago and it’s been my go to guitar. I also apologize for my smartass comment...I didn’t think it would offend so many people and open up old wounds...I hope all is well and you enjoy your guitars...I do know for sure that PRS customer service is amongst the best...I hope they made things right for everyone
I have an Indonesian made schecter Nick Johnston signature, and i would put it over the fender MIM stuff, which I had prior to my Schecter. I would even say that the Schecter has a better feel and look over my Fender performer series strat. And also the fretwork, I would say, is superior as well. Can't complain for an $800 guitar.
Bought a Mex/Tele about 6 months ago when I got tired of waiting for the PRS SE that was looking like it would never make it to our shores. Wanted a new playing buddy so decided to go old school with the Tele. Have come to love it! Blew right through "buddy" status and hit "new girlfriend" status in 60 days or less. Complete with name, "Natalie". Still want that PRS, yes I love pretty quilted maple even if it is laminate. Anyway, again Phil great video and proud to be one of your subscribers.
I’m not surprised by your selection of Fender MIM guitars. I’ve owned a ‘70s USA made Telecaster Deluxe as well as an American Standard Strat and now have a Mexico made Stratocaster HSS that surpasses both in quality, playability and especially ease of set up.
I absolutely love my Charvel San Dimas Style 1 Candy Apple Red! (Recently purchased used) Yamaha is always a great choice when you just don't know but you want a good quality instrument for the buck! Ibanez will always hold a special place in my heart. Thanks for the great vids man!
Love these list videos! Can't wait for the under $300 video list! No wonder you have been so busy making content. Great work and thank you for sharing your expertise with us.
Phil LOVES him some pointy hair metal, skinny nut guitars, and Fender or fender knockoffs. I liked Reverend when they were $700 new. But they keep jacking up the prices. Now, once you throw in sales tax, even their less expensive models don't even really fit on the sub $1k list,
Most of their guitars can be had new from retail for 1000, and the used market they can be found every day in droves for 600-800, mint condition often with a case *but i agree, like 3-5 years ago you could get them used for like 4-500. But, the newer ones are also better- roasted maple, full paint jobs instead of black backs, upgraded nut, neck binding and fretboard inlays on more models, etc
Because Reverend still manufactures all of their guitars in the South Korean factories known for producing outstanding instruments. However, the cost to produce guitars in those Korean factories has increased, and this is the reason for most Reverend models being priced between $900 - $1100. It’s also the reason the production of PRS SE and most sub $1000 Schecters and ESP LTDs has moved to Indonesia. As for the South Korean-made Schecter’s, they are almost all well over $1000 and some over $1300. The same is true of D’Angelico’s Korean-made guitars, some of which are over $1500!
@@sketchyold Great point- it's definitely not just Reverend raising prices. For me though, if I'm buying new (which is foolish IMO anyway), I'm never going to pay that much for an import. In the $1k-2k range it's tough to find a better value than the PRS S2 line. I'm cheap though- I'd rather pick up a Core PRS cheap because it has a scratch on the front that's driving the original owner/lawyer crazy every time he sees it
@@mgreene300 I would be willing to pay up to $1000 for a Reverend or Schecter, because they are just as well-made (if not better) than lower-priced Gibson’s and USA Fenders. I’m over the myth that foreign guitars are always inferior to American-made (and often with better components). The same was once said of Japanese guitars, but now they are among the best in the world. If I’m confident about the feel, components, and fit-and-finish of a guitar, I’m not concerned with resale value. If I enjoy a guitar but decide to sell it one day for half (or less) of it’s original price, I consider that “loss” the price I paid for the time I used and enjoyed the guitar. I will never pay $1200 or more for a Gibson LP faded, just to say I have a Gibson.
Great list. Don't have a lot of experience with many on the list. However, I've owned quite a few on your top 10 including Fender, Chapman and Schecter, all of which are great guitars. My father recently purchased. Hagstrom Swede SE P90 and we're both blown away with the quality. The pickups are probably the weakness, but they didn't compromise on the build, fit or finish. A new set of pickups and it competes with anything. Although, the same thing could be said for many of the guitars brands that made your list. Anyways, great job putting this together. Really enjoy the content!
I really wish that ESP would lose the LTD logo on their headstock. They would DOMINATE. I mean, ALL the biggies have High and Low End guitars and are PROUD to put their Brand on everything they send out the door (ie: Jackson, Ibanez, Fender, Gibson, etc... ). IMHO 🤘
While they don't put the ESP name on their cheaper guitars, it still seems to me that they're much prouder of their low end line than other brands. They've featured even the lowest end LTD on their IG account. I can't say I've seen any Gios on Ibanez social media accounts
All I'm saying is ESP can work on it. Hell, I like the PRS SE logo design now. And, Gretsch moved the Electromatic logo from the headstock to the pickguard.
First, great video!! Before health issues got in the way, I was gigging 4 to 5 nights a week. Mostly, I have top end guitars, which are 3 Les Paul Standards and a 1988 Jackson Cutom Shop Soloist. Only having one Floyd Rose guitar, I wanted a backup. I got a 2000 ESP/LTD GL500K Kamikaze. I figured as a backup, it'd be worth the $250. I was shocked. The guitar payed well, fell good, and sounded pretty good. All I've done to it to date, is rounded the fretboard, to make it feel more like an old player, did a complete setup to my specs, and I did add Seymour Duncan Screamin Demon and single coils, which really woke this guitar up. I ended up playing this guitar a lot. Definitely great guitar, for the money.
I agree with your number 1 choice. Myself and many people I know who take lessons at my local music shop all have fender player series guitars. Amazing quality for the price. I would highly recommend them to new and old players. Thanks Phil for all you do! Your channel brings me so much happiness in these crazy times.
Yooooo, Michael Kelly made the list! The one I got is my favorite, and I've only ever talked to a handful of people who are actually aware of the brand, so cool to hear it be praised like this!
I literally have the exact Schecter you labeled as your favorite, the Hellraiser Hybrid, trans-black and all, but it's actually Korean made! It's been nice checking out your channel and seeing somebody else talk about this brand, and it's nice to see someone else finally rate it so highly! Love the videos!
If you buy a $1000 guitar ask yourself the question ‘is it worth $1,000?’ Maybe it’s worth $700, $800 or $900 . Don’t be fooled by clever strategic marketing. Maybe it’s worth paying $1100 for a guitar that was reduced from $1500. So easy to pay too much or end up with a lesser guitar than you may have expected at this price point . JMHO
Nice Shijie I think its custom shop quality for a third of the price. Haven't tried one, but every video and comment I've seen it says it's really amazing, just as good as any video review to there. If they shipped to my country I would have purchased one. So glad to see it in the list! And nice to see Reverend top 3, damn I love those guitars!
There was one brand absent from the the list and that is AIO, (All in One) and Wolf guitars. and I figured Charvel guitars would have been right there with Fender guitars. because their super Strat guitars take everything that makes Fender Stratocaster, and does it better. and they have the best truss rod adjustment of any Strat style guitar. but I might be a little biased because I have a vintage Charvel guitar and it's fantastic. I'm also partial to Gretsch guitars. but like you said they should dominate the semi hollow and hollow body list.
Nope you're not the only one! I'm a big fan of letting someone else drive it off the lot, and buying used in Excellent or Mint condition. Phil's tip that saved me a bunch of $ is always make an offer on Reverb, or at the brick store even if they're not asking for one. Just be realistic with it.
I used to buy new but did not like over paying for just the name. I only buy used, usually full thickness squiers and epiphone, then upgrade the to full Fender or Gibson levels. Great satisfaction doing all the work myself too at a fraction of a new price guitar.
I've only bought 1 electric. My first guitar was a cheap late 90s korean Tele copy that was a gift from my grandparents, I bought an Ibanez Artcore TM71 Talman in 2005 and that's it. My acoustics have all been used, the first two were awful because I was a 'kid' and had no idea what I was doing, my current acoustic is a Fender FR-50 round neck resonator and it is awesome but I grabbed it for $75-80 used and maybe I just got a good one but I love it. Currently I'm trying to decide if I want a Gretsch G5222 double jet, a Yamaha Revstar 502T, or a Squier Mustang Classic Vibe and will probably but it new.
Dude, Thank you! This list allows me to branch out a little more exotic than I would usually. You’ve done a lot of work. I trust your judgement, Phil. Cheers
Excellent info for all. In fact, it's not the rankings that are important, it's again the info. All of us have different tastes in guitars and would rank 'em accordingly, but the info is presented here about manufacturers choices. Thanks.
I love my fender but I don’t think fender should be #1 when I ordered it the first one was unplayable and so was it’s replacement. I had to get it set up, which isn’t unusual, but they should at least be playable out of the box.
Fender factory setups are disappointing. Both Mexico and Corona in my experience. Yet the Charvels are decent. Very strange. A guitar goes through a lot once it's made and packaged. Hot/cold trucks. Hot/cold warehouses. Zero humidity control. Boxes stacked on top of one another. Boxes dragged and dropped. Plus, how long was it sitting in the box? You never know what kind of journey it's had.
I got a dud as well years ago from musicians friend. Instead of returning it I brought it in for a setup, found out they put a Jaguar neck on a jazz master body(I have no idea how this happened) and since I brought it to a tech I voided the warranty to return it. Long story short, musiciansfriend are huge assholes and luckily I was able to replace it through samash who is an authorized fender dealer. Since then I have never ordered a guitar online, and have only used musicians friend maybe a handful of times just for stupid deal of the day stuff. My advice is Musician friend are scumbags and buy guitars you can physically play first to avoid returns and shipping headaches.
Critical Mindset yeah but fenders setups are just sad like I bought my dad a gretsch and it was set up perfect out of the box and it’s from over seas. The intonation on the fender wasn’t even close there were random bids buzzing and rattle ing and both of the fenders had a string that sounded like a sitar
Ruby dragon 456 like if your more into metal or heavy rock Schecter and IBanez Rock but if it’s traditional or blues I think Fender . I think you can get the odd bad issue with any brand though . Fortunately it’s not too common
FYI, Fujigen (フジゲン) is pronounced with a hard G (i.e., You go back, Jack, do it a-GEN), not Fuji-Jen (soft G). 弦 (Gen, not jen) means "string" (as in guitar strings or stringed instrument).
@@dtohara135 Just because someone mispronounces a word doesn't make them arrogant. And for your information, most Americans are not arrogant. You've maybe watched too much television?
Hi, if I may ask, I would love to see your review of most popular guitar brands/models, and how much you would price them regardless of their actual price. Thanks.
Ibanez has really done A LOT to improve their sub-prestige lineup of guitars in general over the past few years. They've been offering more interesting designs, good quality pickups (if you're able to spend $1,100 you will find multiple guitars with Bareknuckle or Fishman pickups), outlandish and fun colors, and more at a quality level that matches the price. It's a lineup that's a dream come true, especially for a metal guitarist. Lately, when I buy a "new" guitar, I first go to Reverb to see what Ibanez Pestiges are available for around $1,000, and I've found multiple with some really impressive after market mods (including Bareknuckle pickups 🤤).
I love Ibanez. They have been my favorite brand ever since I played an SA260fm as a student back in 2005. But one think I've learned from owing scores of ibanez guitars from every range barring J-Custom...they have legendarily dodgy QC across the entire spectrum. The first run of premiums was insane though imo, they really knocked it out with that. AZ's, I had pretty bad luck with
I'm glad you've had nothing but positive experiences with the sub-prestige range! I wanna like them as much as you, but I've come across a number with really sketchy QC. Things like really sharp fret ends, finish problems, cracky electronics, cheap hardware, etc. I find the Iron Labels and anything cheaper to be the culprits the most, but every once in a while a Premium will have its share of problems as well. Let's not forget the Premium Universe reissues which had misaligned necks and/or bridges. A damn shame.
I love Ibanez but I hate how they discontinue all their guitars. I fall in love with some and before you know it, it's not on the market anymore. Guitars like Strats and Les Pauls, I can get one any day. I like the 90s- early 2000 RG series Ibanez. The ones now that they make don't look as good.
@@TobyKBTY I'm with you, Toby. Fret ends that could cut a cheap steak and cracks in the finish at the neck. I so want to like Ibanez, but after the issues I had with them, they just leave a bad taste for me. :/
I completely agree about the Fender line. I have a MIM Nashville Tele and a Player series Strat. The Mexican line is no longer the guitar you have to settle for because you can't afford the American line.
You missed the middle child of Dean Zelinsky: Diamond (formerly DBZ) Guitars. World Music in Korea not only makes them again, they now own the brand and are fantastic guitars.
Rivolta is designed by Fano and is the sub brand of Novo guitars, Fano guitars has been sold and is no longer under Fano himself. I believe they are set up in America like reverend
Great list, thanks! Love my Schecters, LTDs, and Solar, good to see them all in the top 10. The only one I was surprised by was Hagstrom. I have the Pat Smear model, and I am blown away by it. It probably has the most acoustic projection (played unplugged) of any solid body I have, and it just overall feels very alive. No issues at all, solid build, great pickups, the only thing it needs is locking tuners (because all guitars should have them). Granted, I may have just gotten very lucky, and I also got it just over a year ago, new, not b-stock, for like $670 I think, but now places have it listed for much more than that. Thanks again!
I’m curious why you didn’t rank Shijie higher? Sounded like you gave them some very strong praise in terms of quality that would befit top five kind of territory.
Are you, by chance, going to do lists for basses in different price categories since you also play bass? That would be great to see one on here since most music stuff is regular guitar oriented videos.
I recently bought a Fender Player Telecaster and I am extremely impressed. Great neck and hardware. Pickups are as good as any I've heard. I have owned American Strats and ES-335's and this is now my favorite.
Gotta say, I love the Kramer with the allen wrenches on the back of the headstock. I'm gonna have to retrofit my most used guitars with that. I've never seen it before but I think it's great.
The Allen Key holder has been used off/on on Jackson and Charvels since the 80's alongside Kramers and a few other brands. Many different flavors of retention, some are thumb screw, others have felt or O-ring inside, and I have seen a few use a allen cap bolt to hold an allen key ;). They are available to retrofit any guitar from All Parts, Stew mac etc.
The Strat is still the best designed guitar ever made. Leo hit it outta the park with that one. I don't know maybe he was smoking alien weed when he designed it.
Currently loving Hagstrom as a not talked much about brand - I have two and love both of them. Thought they would land higher on this list but more cuz I just want to get them props. I think Godin is going to be my next purchase - thanks for making this list - very entertaining and informative
Not surprised at all with the placement of the top two. I own several of the represented brands at the top of the list and in one case, I bought two identical MiM (spoiler alert) guitars as a main and backup - they're that good.
Love all your lists! You really know what you are talking about -- so highly informative. Please do more especially in the over $1000 category. Also maybe ranking the top obscure brands.
If you want to know how Shijie is pronounced, type "world" into google translate and translate into Chinese. A working anglophone pronunciation would be something like "sure-jyay."
I just bought an Epiphone 335 two days ago. Played it through a Deluxe Reverb and was blown away by how good it sounded. And flame maple top and back is gorgeous. Fit and finish is great. Only thing I don’t like is the tone pots. May change them. I’ve owned two PRS SEs, and though the fit and finish is outstanding I’m not really happy with the pick ups. I traded the Custom 24 SE when I got the Epiphone. Probably going to keep the Singlecut and change the pups.
@@PiNkPrObLeM13 They're amazing!!! They're made by the famous luthier Trev Wilkinson from vintage, Fret-King to the Wilkinson brand that's seen on high end Fenders and Gibson's.. If you want a really cool super high end quality guitar for under $1,000, Italia is the way to go!! I play a bunch of Fender stuff but now I only pick up my Italia guitars.. My Modena Challenge is my dream guitar, it has a Korina body and a bigsby. It sounds and plays like a dream, I only wish that the tone selection was a little more dramatic, so I might change out one of the pick-ups.. But other than that, these guitars are amazing and there's a huge cult following.. There's Italia Facebook groups too.. Oh, and one more thing, they also make Sitars and Res-O-Glass top guitars like my Mondial Classic that has dual input jacks to blend the piezo pickups and humbuckers together..
@@LucaPasini They're actually made in Korea where Duesenberg guitars are made.. The brand is called "Italia" and their guitars are named after Ferrari race cars and cities in Italy because Trev Wilkinson fell in love with the old vintage Italian guitars that he'd see in pawn shops but he hated the way they played, so he decided to recreate the look of the old Italian guitars from the 1960's but make the quality and playability top notch... The look of Italia has changed more away from the vintage Italian look but you can still find some of those older Italia guitars used on Reverb.. Italia guitars have been around for over 20 years and it's all I ever play anymore
Cant go wrong w Charvel for sure. Though it could be said there's 2 potential exceptions from Cort. 1) G 290 FAT. Rear route, Burst Flame veneer on swamp ash, Birdseye n & fb, heel wheel truss, compound radius, locking tuners, super switch copy 5way, covered HH pups that only need potted, stainless saddles, steel block & plate 2 point trem...$599.00 2) The kx500 is a beautiful HT, that's if 24f chugga chugga woof & squeal is your thing.
Play with it. Before judging, just demo the guitar. Never get upset about the product you order before it is even delivered. Imo, you'll fall in love with it. 😄😄😄
Great video. I have six Schecters and every one of them has something different to offer and a couple of them have it all. I'll grab one of my Schecters before my Les Paul any day.
Great video Phil, well thought out and considered. I'll shout out ShiJie -- I have one of their standard series, can't fault it, they have a small factory but they are turning out quality product. In the future I may well go for a Schecter or Ibanez semi-hollow, as much as I want a Gibson or Gretsch, can't afford them.
My beef with Schecter is the dopey names - the Omen, the Hellraiser, etc. Some of them look nice, but I'm a grown man and I'm not dropping real cash on a guitar playing that angle.
40. Vintage 1:08
39. Aria Pro 1:31
38. Fret King 1:55
37. Greco 2:25
36. DiPinto 2:41
35. Washburn 3:09
34. Hagstrom 3:32
33. Eastwood 3:42
32. Cort 4:01
31. Framus 4:44
30. Supro 5:04
29. Agile 5:23
28. D'Angelico 5:38
27. Rivolta 6:00
26. Michael Kelly 6:20
25. G&L 6:39
24. Gretsch 7:08
23. Guild 7:37
22. Tagima 8:02
21. Danelectro 8:19
20. Kramer 8:50
19. Chapman 9:08
18. Dean 9:39
17. Sterling 10:00
16. Jackson 10:31
15. EVH 10:44
14. Yamaha 11:23
13. Dean Zelinsky 11:44
12. ShiJie 12:10
11. Epiphone 12:41
10. FGN 13:22
9. Godin 13:46
8. Solar 14:21
7. ESP LTD 14:42
6. Ibanez 15:07
5. Charvel 15:42
4. PRS SE 16:00
3. Reverend 16:44
2. Schecter 17:10
1. Fender 17:44
We love you LOL ♫
THANK YOU!
You are the MVP.
👍🇨🇦
Yup, with you on Fender at #1 here. Back in the '90s, a MIM Fender was pretty much the go-to for everyone. Nearly every music store had them, they were within reach for most of us price-wise, and they were solid, giggable instruments. Not much has changed in 30 years...in fact, I think the MIM line has only gotten better with time.
I was recently looking at getting a Jaguar. I was specifically interested in the Player Series Jaguar. I went to a store to check them out because they had 3. All 3 had frets that would cut your hand as did most of the other MIM Fenders there. The pickups were ok but nothing fantastic. I played lots of guitars that day, Gibsons, Epiphones, high end Squiers, and the MIM Fenders. The Fenders were the only ones with such horrific fret sprout and poorly done frets, so much so that the Squiers I played felt way better. I only played the higher end Squiers but still. I asked the store about it and they told me that they see this problem every year with Fenders, a few months every year where the frets are done poorly. They told me it wouldn't cost all that much to have them fix the frets up but for a $900 new guitar that's kind of ridiculous. They had some new Gibsons for 100 bucks more, they were perfect with absolutely fantastic pickups. . The Squiers were perfect, the Epiphones were perfect. Its been years since I've played a MIM Fender but they didn't seem as good as I remembered them as. I wasn't a fan of the pickups on the older MIM but they felt better than the ones I played recently.
@@ChrisEck13 In my opinion, no store should put a guitar that costs that much out for sale until they fixed them. Send them back to Fender, or fix them in-house. It makes Fender and the store look bad. It's like selling a new car with a flat tire.
@@TexanUSMC8089 I do think they should probably be sent back to Fender. But with the amount of MIM Fenders that have horrible fret sprout recently, I don't really think this would solve the issue. I'm sure Fender is aware, it's been a pretty common topic of talk recently and if any of their reps ever visit dealers they will see for themselves. I do think that dealers have some responsibility in regards to what they're selling and letting the customers know of issues, but I don't think that a dealer should have to fix frets on every Fender they receive and even if they did, the problem is likely to come back. Fender really needs to start drying out their woods and using higher quality woods. I haven't seen this issue on high end Squiers, Epiphones, Gibsons, USA Fenders or any other brands. It's only the ultra budget guitars and MIM Fenders
I'd say you were pretty spot on with this list! I was happy to see Schecter come is as high as it did. I have a $600 C-1 platinum sitting directly to my left and it's one of my favorite guitars!
Loving these ranking vids!! Stay safe and healthy Phil!!
This is one of my all time favorite RUclips channels for reviews and info. Phil never wastes my time, comes at everything in an honest and easy to follow manner and I really love the way he keeps an eye on value. I've bought a few brands based on his high ratings and I've yet to be disappointed. Just popped on a Schecter PT Special because of the many positive things Phil has said about Schecters. Thanks as always!
“These lists seem to be really popular...they’re fun to make so they must be fun to watch?”
Conveniently leaves out the point of consistently providing top tier content and information with a humble and down to earth approach that everyone can appreciate. Well done, as always, Phil 🤘
Ha ha Started off sounding like it was going to be a diss!
N D you couldn’t pay me to diss Phil. The man is a diamond.
Lists are popular because they summarize as much as possible. It's easier for people to find what they want to hear for a given product and it gives people confidence on where their potential purchase ranks on a chart. (Also a lot of people like to show up post-purchase to validate it too lol)
This list was especially exciting. It also will made me sweat with the air conditioner running. My brain did not know what to do. Buy, buy, buy! Really appreciate the work you put into these Phil.
The biggest guitar shop round here laughed at me when I asked if they carried any ESP LTD as if it were below them. Went elsewhere to buy my LTD Snakebyte and it is one of the best guitars I've ever played over my 25yrs of (amateur) playing.
Morons. GC behaves like that in Greenville SC
I got an LTD Eclipse last year and it's my favorite guitar I've owned. Top notch features, the neck is really comfortable, and personally I think they've got the best LP-style body shape. I just ordered an Arrow (which is their offset V equivalent) as an early midlife crisis guitar, and I'm eagerly looking forward to trying it out.
I've gotten the same treatment before. Between 2011 and 2018 guitar shops and music stores would shame anyone who didn't own a Gibson/epiphone or a fender/Squier. The reason being is that the immense level of competition at many different price points makes it hard for guitar shops to make easy money. Especially when the major brands like fender and D'angelico are giving huge kickback to guitar center.
Godin is #1 in my opinion. Although it’s all subjective on fit and finish and feel, the fact that they are made in Canada makes it #1 for me. The feel of their Stadium and Passion series rivals the fender customs shop but for a fraction of the price.
And they’re made by people who earn a decent living wage and have employment benefits. I do wish people would try to pronounce it correctly.
Also: goddamn props to Solar/Ola for being ranked so high and being so new to the game.
Hi Phil! I'm really glad to see that a Brazilian brand has made your list. keep up the wonderful work!!!
I have 3 Schecter guitars, all killer, fit, and finish is above what I thought it would be. They're keepers.
Omen model is awsome
I’m a big PRS fan but I love reading the comments where a player has found a guitar that just flat WORKS for hm or her. Enjoy playing those Schecters!
Fender imports have always been amazing. I've owned a player strat, an earlier Mexican tele (2003 or so, I think?), and a Japanese strat, and they were all killer.
Fender is still reputable. They are the best for their price points.
Agree!… but man the new Squier guitars are rivaling and in some cases even surpassing the MIM Fenders…
When I was young, cheapish guitars sucked!😂
Glad to see FGN in there. I have an Iliad and it’s fantastic. Can’t beat Japanese quality.
I just got an Iliad, and it's awesome. I'll put it's build quality up against any other other guitar manufacturer.
I've got several Fujinen built Ibanez and they rock.
@@typhoolin I'm looking at getting one, myself.
So glad your guitar videos are around during all this chaos. So nice, happy, informative, and fun. Thank you!
My first electric guitar was a MIM Strat. Never sold it and I find myself playing it much more than my other, more expensive guitars I have since purchased. I think you are spot on... you can’t go wrong with MIM Fender product for the price.
The guitar I regret selling out of all of them was a MIK Lite Ash strat with factory Duncans. So amazing
Have A 97 MIM start I bought used at a guitar show for $300 bucks. It was my first guitar. Put about $100 bucks into if swapping out the bridge pick-up for a hummbucker and getting it set up properly. Luv that thing. Great little home use axe.
Hat's off for having the integrity to not be afraid to down score the 'big names' in this series
Great list Phil. Love my Godin but to add weight to it’s inclusion on both import lists, a lot of their guitars are handmade still in Canada at their Quebec factories. My Radium is a good example as well as I believe the Radiator models. Easily some of the best guitars I’ve played (ok, I may be biased being a Canadian 😂).
The Fender FSR Made in Japan guitars are excellent for $899 if you like vintage-spec guitars. I have 2 Japanese FSR Teles and their craftsmanship is superb, IMO.
I concur!
I think those are made by the Fujigen factory though
I had a Tele 72 FSR MIJ, how I miss it a lot, very very wonderful quality
Great list! I’d personally switch the Fender and Schecter. For instance, my Schecter Nick Johnston Diamond DESTROYS every Player model I’ve ever played. Just holding them... not even playing them... the Schecters feel like a much higher priced guitar, especially compared to the Players. Plug them in and the quality is even more apparent.
Either way, still a great list. Keep it up!
@Quiksilver To each their own. The NJ Diamonds are $699-$799 in the States, so no, the price doesn't kill anything here. They come ready to play with locking tuners, consistently beautiful fretwork, great pups, and a fit-and-finish at least as nice as my American Pro Tele and Lincoln Brewster Strat (both of which are amazing).
Why on earth points would be lost because it's a signature model is beyond me, but as I said, it was just an example. Pick up whatever Schecter you want in this price range--same. 🤷🏻♂️
@@DougHinVA There are a ton of great deals out there. Moreover, if someone does want a new one, retailers (SW, MF, etc.) can often get 15%+ off from Schecter if you ask them. Either way, hard to go wrong with anything in the top ten of his list.
@Quiksilver Wow! KILLS and SLAUGHTERS. 🤦🏻♂️ Dude, chill. Didn't mean to poke your fanboi. I said it was an example of a Schecter that, in my experience, plays and feels superior to the half-dozen or so Fender Player models I've played. Schecter makes plenty of other guitars at this price point. And if my European friends have to pay more, that's too bad, but it's irrelevant to my opinion, as in the States they are $699-$799 and easily found for 10-15% less--that is, about the same price as a Fender Player model over here. 🤷🏻♂️
Personally, I really like the rings in the board, so if you feel the need to go all Boomer on another one of my personal opinions, take a whack at that for awhile. 🤣 👋🏻
I'll put my Diamond Series Nick Johnston up against any Strat, American or otherwise.
I don’t think any guitar destroys another . The reason Guitar Acquisition Syndrome is so prevalent is because there are so many great guitars out there. They’re all good in their own ways .
Great revu! Surprised Ibanez was so low. But impressed with MIM Fender. Nicely done.
15:08 - Because of you I bought the Ibanez RGRT421 which is very impressive for the low price ($400).
I switched the pickups to Seymour Duncan Black Winter, so in total, I paid $600 for amazing quality.
I couldn't afford a Solar guitar, but I'm very happy with the Ibanez.
I bought a Ibanez Rg6003fm Guitar Center Musicians Friend special brand new for 275 and that has wizard III neck fast playing light guitar with Quantum Humbuckers. Love this thing go to player
Can't wait for the over 1K list. My Fender Jim Root Tele is still my favorite player and it opened the door to me when I purchase now. MIM guitars are no longer scary to me.
Hi, Phil. I like everything you do. Always entertaining and especially informative. I would like to see a hollow body list between $600-$1,000.
I couldn't give an opinion to most guitars on your list. I have not got my hands on them. However, I've owned multiple Reverend guitars. I've NEVER been dissatisfied. Reverend makes great stuff. I'm happy to see them in the top three. For me, they stand up to bigger name brands that can be significantly more expensive. I've experienced this first hand.
Very happy with my Player guitars. I bought a Strat first and loved it so much I bought a Tele!
Tokai si an excellent brand, made in japan and at quiet good prices . Greetings from chile 🇨🇱
Love my 2017 MIM Fender Player Limited Edition...aged and black\black. On sale, I paid $499 (couldn't pass that up). And, plays "as good" in my opinion as the American version. Good choice for #1.
People that said PRS SE guitars made in Indonesia had QC issues, were probably just playing the demo ones at Guitar Center.
I had to take my first SE Standard 24 back, that was box fresh. It was actually better than the replacement bar a small section where the lacquer was lifting on the side of the neck and would have just broken away quickly.
my se 245 had a poorly cut nut that causes fret buzz
@@haydendoglione3863 Mine was flawless.
My first PRS was an SE Standard Indonesia (lowest price point). IT went back to PRS for a number of problems, the worst of them was the neck kept moving. I had to adjust the neck weekly. I firmly believe there was an issue with the truss rod. I have bought three2014 Korean SE's that have been fantastic guitars, another Indonesian (2019 Paul's Guitar) which was also fantastic, and most recently 2020 USA CE (nicest guitar I have). I almost swore off PRS after the problem with the first one, but I'm glad I changed my mind.
Christopher Nicoll Sorry to hear about your troubles...I bought an Indonesian made PRS SE Custom 24 for dirt cheap from Proaudiostar a few months ago and it’s been my go to guitar. I also apologize for my smartass comment...I didn’t think it would offend so many people and open up old wounds...I hope all is well and you enjoy your guitars...I do know for sure that PRS customer service is amongst the best...I hope they made things right for everyone
I have an Indonesian made schecter Nick Johnston signature, and i would put it over the fender MIM stuff, which I had prior to my Schecter. I would even say that the Schecter has a better feel and look over my Fender performer series strat. And also the fretwork, I would say, is superior as well. Can't complain for an $800 guitar.
Totally agree
Bought a Mex/Tele about 6 months ago when I got tired of waiting for the PRS SE that was looking like it would never make it to our shores. Wanted a new playing buddy so decided to go old school with the Tele. Have come to love it! Blew right through "buddy" status and hit "new girlfriend" status in 60 days or less. Complete with name, "Natalie". Still want that PRS, yes I love pretty quilted maple even if it is laminate. Anyway, again Phil great video and proud to be one of your subscribers.
I’m not surprised by your selection of Fender MIM guitars. I’ve owned a ‘70s USA made Telecaster Deluxe as well as an American Standard Strat and now have a Mexico made Stratocaster HSS that surpasses both in quality, playability and especially ease of set up.
I absolutely love my Charvel San Dimas Style 1 Candy Apple Red! (Recently purchased used)
Yamaha is always a great choice when you just don't know but you want a good quality instrument for the buck!
Ibanez will always hold a special place in my heart. Thanks for the great vids man!
Love these list videos! Can't wait for the under $300 video list! No wonder you have been so busy making content. Great work and thank you for sharing your expertise with us.
dbraysd Id bet my left nut it’s Squier in that category haha!
Phil LOVES him some pointy hair metal, skinny nut guitars, and Fender or fender knockoffs. I liked Reverend when they were $700 new. But they keep jacking up the prices. Now, once you throw in sales tax, even their less expensive models don't even really fit on the sub $1k list,
Most of their guitars can be had new from retail for 1000, and the used market they can be found every day in droves for 600-800, mint condition often with a case
*but i agree, like 3-5 years ago you could get them used for like 4-500. But, the newer ones are also better- roasted maple, full paint jobs instead of black backs, upgraded nut, neck binding and fretboard inlays on more models, etc
Because Reverend still manufactures all of their guitars in the South Korean factories known for producing outstanding instruments. However, the cost to produce guitars in those Korean factories has increased, and this is the reason for most Reverend models being priced between $900 - $1100. It’s also the reason the production of PRS SE and most sub $1000 Schecters and ESP LTDs has moved to Indonesia. As for the South Korean-made Schecter’s, they are almost all well over $1000 and some over $1300. The same is true of D’Angelico’s Korean-made guitars, some of which are over $1500!
@@sketchyold Great point- it's definitely not just Reverend raising prices. For me though, if I'm buying new (which is foolish IMO anyway), I'm never going to pay that much for an import. In the $1k-2k range it's tough to find a better value than the PRS S2 line. I'm cheap though- I'd rather pick up a Core PRS cheap because it has a scratch on the front that's driving the original owner/lawyer crazy every time he sees it
@@mgreene300 I would be willing to pay up to $1000 for a Reverend or Schecter, because they are just as well-made (if not better) than lower-priced Gibson’s and USA Fenders. I’m over the myth that foreign guitars are always inferior to American-made (and often with better components). The same was once said of Japanese guitars, but now they are among the best in the world. If I’m confident about the feel, components, and fit-and-finish of a guitar, I’m not concerned with resale value. If I enjoy a guitar but decide to sell it one day for half (or less) of it’s original price, I consider that “loss” the price I paid for the time I used and enjoyed the guitar. I will never pay $1200 or more for a Gibson LP faded, just to say I have a Gibson.
Great list. Don't have a lot of experience with many on the list. However, I've owned quite a few on your top 10 including Fender, Chapman and Schecter, all of which are great guitars. My father recently purchased. Hagstrom Swede SE P90 and we're both blown away with the quality. The pickups are probably the weakness, but they didn't compromise on the build, fit or finish. A new set of pickups and it competes with anything. Although, the same thing could be said for many of the guitars brands that made your list. Anyways, great job putting this together. Really enjoy the content!
I really wish that ESP would lose the LTD logo on their headstock. They would DOMINATE. I mean, ALL the biggies have High and Low End guitars and are PROUD to put their Brand on everything they send out the door (ie: Jackson, Ibanez, Fender, Gibson, etc... ). IMHO 🤘
Dude you are on to something there...thats a great idea!!!!!
larry dickman I think we all feel that way... lmao
Toxic avenger E-ii... don’t get me started! Ha!
While they don't put the ESP name on their cheaper guitars, it still seems to me that they're much prouder of their low end line than other brands. They've featured even the lowest end LTD on their IG account. I can't say I've seen any Gios on Ibanez social media accounts
All I'm saying is ESP can work on it. Hell, I like the PRS SE logo design now. And, Gretsch moved the Electromatic logo from the headstock to the pickguard.
First, great video!! Before health issues got in the way, I was gigging 4 to 5 nights a week. Mostly, I have top end guitars, which are 3 Les Paul Standards and a 1988 Jackson Cutom Shop Soloist. Only having one Floyd Rose guitar, I wanted a backup. I got a 2000 ESP/LTD GL500K Kamikaze. I figured as a backup, it'd be worth the $250. I was shocked. The guitar payed well, fell good, and sounded pretty good. All I've done to it to date, is rounded the fretboard, to make it feel more like an old player, did a complete setup to my specs, and I did add Seymour Duncan Screamin Demon and single coils, which really woke this guitar up. I ended up playing this guitar a lot. Definitely great guitar, for the money.
Chris Dipinto is a great guy, a great player , and his guitars are well built. The Mach IV is an awesome guitar.
I agree with your number 1 choice. Myself and many people I know who take lessons at my local music shop all have fender player series guitars. Amazing quality for the price. I would highly recommend them to new and old players. Thanks Phil for all you do! Your channel brings me so much happiness in these crazy times.
I totally agree with the top 5. I don’t think Fender can be beat in this price range. I own two Player series and they are awesome.
Yooooo, Michael Kelly made the list!
The one I got is my favorite, and I've only ever talked to a handful of people who are actually aware of the brand, so cool to hear it be praised like this!
"Godin", in Kentucky, is pronounced, "Schecter".
But in France, "Schecter" means "the cattle are dying" both good guitars...heh heh
@@MarshallAmpMan If I ever buy a Schecter I will name my new axe the beef hatchet. None of my friends will understand why.
@@Kevlarel84 genius
MarshallAmp Man maybe you made a joke that went over my head but Schecter doesn’t mean anything in French.
I literally have the exact Schecter you labeled as your favorite, the Hellraiser Hybrid, trans-black and all, but it's actually Korean made! It's been nice checking out your channel and seeing somebody else talk about this brand, and it's nice to see someone else finally rate it so highly! Love the videos!
If you buy a $1000 guitar ask yourself the question ‘is it worth $1,000?’ Maybe it’s worth $700, $800 or $900 . Don’t be fooled by clever strategic marketing. Maybe it’s worth paying $1100 for a guitar that was reduced from $1500. So easy to pay too much or end up with a lesser guitar than you may have expected at this price point . JMHO
I say don't fret over 200 bucks for something you could enjoy for many years.
Keep this lists going! You have so much validated opinions on these brands that I want to hear.
I knew a guitar teacher who called Schecter "Sphincter."
That's great 😂
"sphincter hellraiser"
oh wait i got one better
"sphincter demon"
Lol spinchter tempest
😂
LOL! Do they really suck?
Nice Shijie I think its custom shop quality for a third of the price. Haven't tried one, but every video and comment I've seen it says it's really amazing, just as good as any video review to there.
If they shipped to my country I would have purchased one. So glad to see it in the list!
And nice to see Reverend top 3, damn I love those guitars!
they looked the coolest to me besides fender obviously
Finally someone that says Tagima, properly. And (being Brazilian) I’m so glad they did it to the list
There was one brand absent from the the list and that is AIO, (All in One) and Wolf guitars.
and I figured Charvel guitars would have been right there with Fender guitars. because their super Strat guitars take everything that makes Fender Stratocaster, and does it better. and they have the best truss rod adjustment of any Strat style guitar. but I might be a little biased because I have a vintage Charvel guitar and it's fantastic. I'm also partial to Gretsch guitars. but like you said they should dominate the semi hollow and hollow body list.
Am I the only one who’s never bought a brand new guitar other than their first “beginner” guitar
I've been using the used market since basically day one. great way to stretch my dollar as far as it'll go.
Nope you're not the only one! I'm a big fan of letting someone else drive it off the lot, and buying used in Excellent or Mint condition. Phil's tip that saved me a bunch of $ is always make an offer on Reverb, or at the brick store even if they're not asking for one. Just be realistic with it.
I used to buy new but did not like over paying for just the name. I only buy used, usually full thickness squiers and epiphone, then upgrade the to full Fender or Gibson levels. Great satisfaction doing all the work myself too at a fraction of a new price guitar.
Nope, your not. But I only buy guitars I see as heirloom or collectable. Cheers!
I've only bought 1 electric. My first guitar was a cheap late 90s korean Tele copy that was a gift from my grandparents, I bought an Ibanez Artcore TM71 Talman in 2005 and that's it. My acoustics have all been used, the first two were awful because I was a 'kid' and had no idea what I was doing, my current acoustic is a Fender FR-50 round neck resonator and it is awesome but I grabbed it for $75-80 used and maybe I just got a good one but I love it. Currently I'm trying to decide if I want a Gretsch G5222 double jet, a Yamaha Revstar 502T, or a Squier Mustang Classic Vibe and will probably but it new.
Dude, Thank you! This list allows me to branch out a little more exotic than I would usually. You’ve done a lot of work. I trust your judgement, Phil. Cheers
This video makes me want to spend money.
Lol me too 🤣
Excellent info for all. In fact, it's not the rankings that are important, it's again the info. All of us have different tastes in guitars and would rank 'em accordingly, but the info is presented here about manufacturers choices. Thanks.
I’m glad Schecter made it up so high up on the list. I love my Schecter reaper. Best playing guitar I’ve played and it looks beautiful too!
nice camera angle! Love that you started on number 40 and not 10 or 20! Excellent long list and awesome review! SWEET!
I love my fender but I don’t think fender should be #1 when I ordered it the first one was unplayable and so was it’s replacement. I had to get it set up, which isn’t unusual, but they should at least be playable out of the box.
Fender factory setups are disappointing. Both Mexico and Corona in my experience. Yet the Charvels are decent. Very strange. A guitar goes through a lot once it's made and packaged. Hot/cold trucks. Hot/cold warehouses. Zero humidity control. Boxes stacked on top of one another. Boxes dragged and dropped. Plus, how long was it sitting in the box? You never know what kind of journey it's had.
I got a dud as well years ago from musicians friend. Instead of returning it I brought it in for a setup, found out they put a Jaguar neck on a jazz master body(I have no idea how this happened) and since I brought it to a tech I voided the warranty to return it. Long story short, musiciansfriend are huge assholes and luckily I was able to replace it through samash who is an authorized fender dealer. Since then I have never ordered a guitar online, and have only used musicians friend maybe a handful of times just for stupid deal of the day stuff. My advice is Musician friend are scumbags and buy guitars you can physically play first to avoid returns and shipping headaches.
Critical Mindset yeah but fenders setups are just sad like I bought my dad a gretsch and it was set up perfect out of the box and it’s from over seas. The intonation on the fender wasn’t even close there were random bids buzzing and rattle ing and both of the fenders had a string that sounded like a sitar
I always calculate a pro set-up into the cost when I buy a new/used guitar. The guitars go straight to my regular luthier.
Ruby dragon 456 like if your more into metal or heavy rock Schecter and IBanez Rock but if it’s traditional or blues I think Fender . I think you can get the odd bad issue with any brand though . Fortunately it’s not too common
Enjoyable video. Glad to see Reverend placed high. They deserve it.
FYI, Fujigen (フジゲン) is pronounced with a hard G (i.e., You go back, Jack, do it a-GEN), not Fuji-Jen (soft G). 弦 (Gen, not jen) means "string" (as in guitar strings or stringed instrument).
Insert iron man yawn emoji
He'll just ignore you. He knows how to pronounce Godin the correct way yet still shooses to say it wrong. American arrogance
@@dtohara135 Just because someone mispronounces a word doesn't make them arrogant. And for your information, most Americans are not arrogant. You've maybe watched too much television?
i didnt know this . thanks .
@@HooksBill ignorant is much more on the spot than arrogant indeeed
Love the video, great to see all the guitar brands nd the ratings and the side notes of the guitars being great at certain price points.
Hi, if I may ask, I would love to see your review of most popular guitar brands/models, and how much you would price them regardless of their actual price. Thanks.
another wonderful, extremely well thought out demonstration from Phiilip M. Thanks again, Phil.
well, its wonderful that it covered so much in the very small amount of time this video was. I wish this was an hour long at least, lol!
Ibanez has really done A LOT to improve their sub-prestige lineup of guitars in general over the past few years. They've been offering more interesting designs, good quality pickups (if you're able to spend $1,100 you will find multiple guitars with Bareknuckle or Fishman pickups), outlandish and fun colors, and more at a quality level that matches the price. It's a lineup that's a dream come true, especially for a metal guitarist.
Lately, when I buy a "new" guitar, I first go to Reverb to see what Ibanez Pestiges are available for around $1,000, and I've found multiple with some really impressive after market mods (including Bareknuckle pickups 🤤).
I love Ibanez. They have been my favorite brand ever since I played an SA260fm as a student back in 2005. But one think I've learned from owing scores of ibanez guitars from every range barring J-Custom...they have legendarily dodgy QC across the entire spectrum. The first run of premiums was insane though imo, they really knocked it out with that. AZ's, I had pretty bad luck with
I'm glad you've had nothing but positive experiences with the sub-prestige range! I wanna like them as much as you, but I've come across a number with really sketchy QC. Things like really sharp fret ends, finish problems, cracky electronics, cheap hardware, etc. I find the Iron Labels and anything cheaper to be the culprits the most, but every once in a while a Premium will have its share of problems as well. Let's not forget the Premium Universe reissues which had misaligned necks and/or bridges. A damn shame.
I love Ibanez but I hate how they discontinue all their guitars. I fall in love with some and before you know it, it's not on the market anymore. Guitars like Strats and Les Pauls, I can get one any day. I like the 90s- early 2000 RG series Ibanez. The ones now that they make don't look as good.
@@TobyKBTY I'm with you, Toby. Fret ends that could cut a cheap steak and cracks in the finish at the neck. I so want to like Ibanez, but after the issues I had with them, they just leave a bad taste for me. :/
I completely agree about the Fender line. I have a MIM Nashville Tele and a Player series Strat. The Mexican line is no longer the guitar you have to settle for because you can't afford the American line.
You missed the middle child of Dean Zelinsky: Diamond (formerly DBZ) Guitars. World Music in Korea not only makes them again, they now own the brand and are fantastic guitars.
Great series and very informative. I would love to see more of this content in the top tier price range as well. Thanks :)
Rivolta is designed by Fano and is the sub brand of Novo guitars, Fano guitars has been sold and is no longer under Fano himself. I believe they are set up in America like reverend
Great list, thanks! Love my Schecters, LTDs, and Solar, good to see them all in the top 10. The only one I was surprised by was Hagstrom. I have the Pat Smear model, and I am blown away by it. It probably has the most acoustic projection (played unplugged) of any solid body I have, and it just overall feels very alive. No issues at all, solid build, great pickups, the only thing it needs is locking tuners (because all guitars should have them). Granted, I may have just gotten very lucky, and I also got it just over a year ago, new, not b-stock, for like $670 I think, but now places have it listed for much more than that. Thanks again!
Yes!! More bass content!
Phil, I would like to see you do a similar ranking for acoustic guitars. Great work as usual.
Reverend FTW! Love them 🧡
DiPinto fan here--they made me a baritone to order when I travelled to North America. Fantastic service and guitar.
I'd love a $1000-2000 U.S.A. made guitars episode!
I do enjoy these Phillip. Helps an fart like me learn about other brands out there. Look forward to the next one.
I’m curious why you didn’t rank Shijie higher? Sounded like you gave them some very strong praise in terms of quality that would befit top five kind of territory.
Excellent job Phil! I think PRS should be top 3 but can’t complain with 4th. Great List! 🤘🏻🎸
Are you, by chance, going to do lists for basses in different price categories since you also play bass? That would be great to see one on here since most music stuff is regular guitar oriented videos.
I recently bought a Fender Player Telecaster and I am extremely impressed. Great neck and hardware. Pickups are as good as any I've heard. I have owned American Strats and ES-335's and this is now my favorite.
harley benton now did put out almost 600€ guitars
Gotta say, I love the Kramer with the allen wrenches on the back of the headstock. I'm gonna have to retrofit my most used guitars with that. I've never seen it before but I think it's great.
The Allen Key holder has been used off/on on Jackson and Charvels since the 80's alongside Kramers and a few other brands. Many different flavors of retention, some are thumb screw, others have felt or O-ring inside, and I have seen a few use a allen cap bolt to hold an allen key ;). They are available to retrofit any guitar from All Parts, Stew mac etc.
its such a simple thing and its a lot more useful than I thought it was going to be tbh
Godin is the best period... I have 20 guitars ranging from 400 to 6k my 600 dollar godin slays them.
I had a Godin Exit 22-s and that thing was killer. I have been eyeballing some Icon Type III's hopefully I can snag one some day.
Bought a Godin Tele style Session Custom 59 for C$1000 (US$750). Quality is fantastic. Totally equal to my USA Strat, '74 Les Paul, and Japanese ESPs.
GODIN #1. Chapman, Mitchell....r u serious?!?
The Strat is still the best designed guitar ever made. Leo hit it outta the park with that one. I don't know maybe he was smoking alien weed when he designed it.
Very arguable! Also imagine making the Tele on the first go 🤯
@@kgr6438 Another amazing design.
@@kgr6438 of course, he copied the one Paul Bigsby made first...
the tele, I mean...
the strat is shit it dosent stay in tune
Currently loving Hagstrom as a not talked much about brand - I have two and love both of them. Thought they would land higher on this list but more cuz I just want to get them props. I think Godin is going to be my next purchase - thanks for making this list - very entertaining and informative
Not surprised at all with the placement of the top two. I own several of the represented brands at the top of the list and in one case, I bought two identical MiM (spoiler alert) guitars as a main and backup - they're that good.
Love to see my Classic 30 over your right shoulder! Thats a sweet head!
Thanks for the insight Phil! Always a pleasure.
Dean Zelensky guitars are made in Indonesia, it says it right around the end strap button
Some are made in India too
I bought mine 5 years ago, yeah he's probably moved around things since then
I have 3 Dean Zelinsky's, all made in India. And yes, located around the strap button.
Love all your lists! You really know what you are talking about -- so highly informative. Please do more especially in the over $1000 category. Also maybe ranking the top obscure brands.
If you want to know how Shijie is pronounced, type "world" into google translate and translate into Chinese. A working anglophone pronunciation would be something like "sure-jyay."
Shijie and Reverb are the two on the list that intrigue me most. I believe a case of GAS is headed my way LOL
I just bought an Epiphone 335 two days ago. Played it through a Deluxe Reverb and was blown away by how good it sounded. And flame maple top and back is gorgeous. Fit and finish is great. Only thing I don’t like is the tone pots. May change them.
I’ve owned two PRS SEs, and though the fit and finish is outstanding I’m not really happy with the pick ups. I traded the Custom 24 SE when I got the Epiphone. Probably going to keep the Singlecut and change the pups.
Please do a Hollowbody list!
I think you did pretty good doing this I own a Ibanez roadstar since 1985,a rg, and a acoustic and love them all
I never see any Italia Brand guitars on any of these lists.. I love my Italia Modena Challenge and Italia Mondial Classic
tbh I've never heard of this brand til I saw this but I just looked them up and they seem REALLY unique and cool. How do they sound?
@@PiNkPrObLeM13 They're amazing!!! They're made by the famous luthier Trev Wilkinson from vintage, Fret-King to the Wilkinson brand that's seen on high end Fenders and Gibson's.. If you want a really cool super high end quality guitar for under $1,000, Italia is the way to go!!
I play a bunch of Fender stuff but now I only pick up my Italia guitars.. My Modena Challenge is my dream guitar, it has a Korina body and a bigsby. It sounds and plays like a dream, I only wish that the tone selection was a little more dramatic, so I might change out one of the pick-ups.. But other than that, these guitars are amazing and there's a huge cult following.. There's Italia Facebook groups too..
Oh, and one more thing, they also make Sitars and Res-O-Glass top guitars like my Mondial Classic that has dual input jacks to blend the piezo pickups and humbuckers together..
I've never heard of this brand, and I live in Italy, not too far from Modena
@@LucaPasini They're actually made in Korea where Duesenberg guitars are made.. The brand is called "Italia" and their guitars are named after Ferrari race cars and cities in Italy because Trev Wilkinson fell in love with the old vintage Italian guitars that he'd see in pawn shops but he hated the way they played, so he decided to recreate the look of the old Italian guitars from the 1960's but make the quality and playability top notch...
The look of Italia has changed more away from the vintage Italian look but you can still find some of those older Italia guitars used on Reverb..
Italia guitars have been around for over 20 years and it's all I ever play anymore
TeeDoh Jackson also Reverend uses Wilkinson bridges!
Cant go wrong w Charvel for sure. Though it could be said there's 2 potential exceptions from Cort. 1) G 290 FAT. Rear route, Burst Flame veneer on swamp ash, Birdseye n & fb, heel wheel truss, compound radius, locking tuners, super switch copy 5way, covered HH pups that only need potted, stainless saddles, steel block & plate 2 point trem...$599.00 2) The kx500 is a beautiful HT, that's if 24f chugga chugga woof & squeal is your thing.
I just ordered an Epiphone LP for $275. I forget what you said about them.
Did I screw up?
Play with it. Before judging, just demo the guitar. Never get upset about the product you order before it is even delivered. Imo, you'll fall in love with it. 😄😄😄
Thanks for the video as well as the previous one for $600 and less guitars. I learned a lot about guitars, some that I never new existed!
Love my Reverends and my Mexi-Strat...
Great video. I have six Schecters and every one of them has something different to offer and a couple of
them have it all. I'll grab one of my Schecters before my Les Paul any day.
Great video Phil, well thought out and considered. I'll shout out ShiJie -- I have one of their standard series, can't fault it, they have a small factory but they are turning out quality product. In the future I may well go for a Schecter or Ibanez semi-hollow, as much as I want a Gibson or Gretsch, can't afford them.
Another great video ... thanks! Obvious sequels are $1000 - $1500 and $1500 - $2500 ranges ... plus, maybe a similar series for amps?
My beef with Schecter is the dopey names - the Omen, the Hellraiser, etc. Some of them look nice, but I'm a grown man and I'm not dropping real cash on a guitar playing that angle.
I'll take that over letter and number combinations honestly.
I have the Schecter Reaper 6. And I'm a grown woman and I love it. It was worth every penny.
Sounds like fragile masculinity to me. Your loss big boy.
It's hard to find anything better for the price