Ergonomics are very individual. The Q Series sits in a perfect 45° angle if you place it like between your legs, bridge on the right thigh. Sits a bit lower than classical position, which is just perfect to take the strain off my right shoulder and put my left hand in the right position. Like this, the output jack is in the perfect spot. It's almost like it is meant to be played this way... Tried multiple Strandberg and Q/QX, bought the QX52. Bridge and nut of the Ibanez are objectively better for setup and tuning. Preferences for String heights are also individual. I like to set it myself (or in the case of the QX52, letting my Luthier do it for me). So again, the Ibanez was perfect for me. The Pickups are ok, the 10-way electronics are great.The Q52 costs about $750, not $1000. Totally fine by me. About the Designs, the Strandberg is a bit like the Cybertruck to me. A bit shocking at first, but interesting. Then, for a short time, it was like the coolest thing ever. Now, it seems more like a Meme to me, honestly. With the QX52, I experience the opposite. At first, I was like, "meh..." but then started to like it more and more every day! Also, so easy to put aside quickly and just lean it on something! It also fits with all my stands and hangers. This convenience really can't be overrated, in my opinion. Great review, thanks!
Thanks for the comment! I’ve been using the Quest for a bit now and I noticed if I put the strap on the bottom strap button it sits better on my thigh. I love the Quest and enjoy it more than I did the Strandbergs. I still personally liked the body shape of the Strandberg better but you’re on point with the setup process being objectively better in the Quest. Other than have to file the nut slots a lot (we’re talking notes going completely sharp at the 1st fret without this tweak) it was near perfect from the store. Out of curiosity you said they cost $750 not $1000 but looking at SweetWater there isn’t one listed under $999 USD. Where did you find it for less?
@@MrAustinMusic Sorry for the confusion, I live in Switzerland and my brain seems to be stuck in the recent past, when USD and Swiss Franks were approx. equal for a few years. It seems crazy to me, when I was a kid, a dollar was about 2.90 SFR. Now it is 3 times less... I can't say I fully understand why... The laser blue Q52 was 750 SRF half a year ago, now the cheapest I can find is 790 SRF, which is about 890 USD. Delivery to the US would be another $49, so yeah..
I have owned 3 Strandbergs. Long story short, the Strandberg design really shines on 7 and 8 string models and their multiscale design, as far as ease of play and intonation, is the best in the industry.
I haven’t owned a 7 or 8 string but played the 7 and was blown away. I expected that I’d have to adjust to the fanned fret design but with the endur neck it was no issue.
Great video and very interesting comparison. I agree with a lot of your views about Strandbergs and despite some minor negatives, my Strandberg is the best experience I ever had with a guitar. Now the Ibanez Q looks very promising for me, but the input jack and body ergonomics regarding playing in a more classical position concerns me. Also as you mentioned as well, I have seen many complaints about the nut on the Q. The new matte copper Q guitar with white pick guard looks so nice though, I will have to try to test it somewhere.
The nut was pretty much unacceptable at this price point. However I have all the tools to do setup work, so it didn’t take long to remedy. Most people don’t just have nut files laying around though. I think the guitar is worth it still, but it could’ve benefited from a setup (which imo all stores should try and do). I’ve put several hours into playing with this guitar over the past one and a half months. Holding it is slightly less comfortable while playing is slightly more. It should be worth a try!
@@MrAustinMusic I heard from multiple people with unacceptable nuts on their Q that had to be fixed by a luthier. But I imagine it should be an easy fix if you buy in a store and not online. I will definitely give the Q a try soon.
You could try a right-angled cable. Maybe not perfect but might help with the jack? I've got a QX52. I'm really happy with it but have been curious about strandbergs so this video is helpful. Clear and well presented. Thank you
I actually tried a right angled jack (should’ve mentioned that in the video). It was actually more annoying with that cable. It either forced the cable to run in the opposite direction and loop back, or dig further into my leg. At least with a straight one I can sit the cable between my legs mostly. Glad you liked the video, if you ever do try a Strandberg let me know!
@@MrAustinMusicfunny how for the Q line Ibanez went for a new style of body, new pickups, new headstock, bridge and tuners, yet the same stupid jack placement Does anyone know why they don't place it angled on the guitar top, Stratocaster-style?
I thought the same thing. They could have a recessed jack just how they have on the S series or the AZ series of guitars and it would've worked better. Ibanez would be the only one with that answer I'm sure.
@@em_the_bee I think no one designing those guitars has ever played Classical position lol. They've nailed everything else, but yeah, I hope they get feedback from an artist or something soon.
I bought the sea foam green Ibanez Q. My only 2 complaints are I wish it had the classical contour around the knobs like you said. Also every time it sites for a while; it's a little out of tune. I know that's normal for a guitar; but I assumed the tuning would be amazing on a headless guitar.
You know the tuning thing was something I noticed as well, but I think it depends on how it was strung. I noticed if I load the ball end of the string into the saddle then tighten the tuner so that the ball is firmly in place the tuning is more stable. It isn't generally that unstable for me, but I did notice a difference when not first tightening the ball end of the string into place before using the locking point past the nut. Worth a try, I figured it was just me to be honest. haha
Great structure. Thank you for sharing. 10:38 - Awesome! What's that device/software? Would love to get a more detailed video about that software : price/functionning/opinion If I may it'd be awesome to have the video cut into chapters for a better watching experience
I can definitely add in Chapters, I don’t usually because I thought RUclips automatically did. Haha The device is called TriplePlay Connect. It is by Fishman, and the software is the software corresponding with the device. Mine is the wired version but they have a more expensive wireless one ($300 I believe for the wireless). The wired version was discontinued as far as I know. I can definitely do a video on it at some point in the near future though!
@@iursnitram I didn't mention it in the video (probably should have). I did try using a right angled cable instead of a straight. the Cable either had to run to my left which is the opposite side it plugs into the guitar (no convenient cable flow for me unfortunately), or if I ran it to the right it jabbed into my leg even more so than a straight cable. The straight cable is functional, just offsets how it sits to be slightly less ideal. If your setup allows for an angle cable running the wire to the left it is probably a better experience. p.s. I also need a right angle plug to go to my interface for cable flow, and I couldn't unfortunately find a right angle to right angle guitar lead. I tried an angle adapter (only could find one 1/4" to 1/4" angled adapter, but it unfortunately broke within a week of using it).
You might want to look into Hils. Ergo body w/ trem for only $500. I love my Strandberg Classic NX, but if I couldn't get on with the Enduraneck/multiscale it's definitely what I'd look at. For much less than a Q you could put any pickups you want in it, as well as a FreeWay switch, and get a much more versatile guitar.
Ah, good catch. Thank you for letting me know! I'll have to mix the tracks separately (something not necessary for lessons but for videos makes sense). I appreciate you!
I was in the opposite position. I started with a Q specifically the Ibanez ichi10 (ichika nitos signature with the SSS setup). I traded mine after a year for a strandberg boden essential 6 due to my Q being very poor with QC, same issue with high nut and also sharp fret ends, and unleveled frets. Ive now had my strandberg essential for about 5-6 months, and at first it was very surprising. The guitars do feel very much more premium and im on the same boat of liking the enurneck for just single note things but for chords it does seem more awkward. The tuners and locking mechanism is way better on the ibanez Q series, strandbergs honestly requires way more work to do the same things, such as intonation or action. After 6 months now though, I’m looking to sell my strandberg boden essential 6. The guitar is honestly really nice and had no issues. But Im going in the opposite direction now and back to regular guitars. And getting an Ibanez AZ2402 prestige. Hoping one day Ibanez will release a prestige model Q series!
This is some awesome insight! I do love both guitars, but playing the Q for a couple months now I do find myself missing the Strandberg because it just felt more premium in the hand. I definitely do miss playing more traditional styles of guitars more though. If you're in the US or Canada and list the Boden Essential on Reverb let me know. I might be interested in getting my hands on one, just haven't decided if I want to spend the money yet. Cheers!
Sure thing! I plan on doing a video on it at some point. The device is called TriplePlay Connect by Fishman. The software is the included one for the device. The Connect has been discontinued though, but there is a wireless version. I'm not sure if that is still being made. Any other questions just let me know!
I figured you might want to know, but the TriplePlay Connect midi pickup I mentioned was not discontinued, instead it was rebranded as TriplePlay Express for the wired version, and TriplePlay Wireless for the wireless one.
I think you are making the Strandberg restring much more difficult than it really is or needs to be. There are a bunch of restring videos on here where they do it in a few minutes. I have 4 Strandbergs and have NEVER had a problem getting the low E through the string lock. The only reason I can imagine it would be an issue is if you are going beyond the string gauge that the string lock can take. If you stick in the 46 to 48 gauge string range, I have had no issues. As far as intonation or string height, there is a little back and forth but this only comes up if you change string gauges.
Thanks for the reply Daniel! I was using 10-46 strings on my Strandberg, and watched all the videos. It was just that string that was an issue. Could've been an issue specifically on that one guitar, but I can't recall if I had the issue on the Standard NX or Classic I had (this is referencing the Standard I had which was before NX hardware revision). Yeah, intonation, string height, all of that wasn't difficult to setup. I'm just saying it isn't as easy as the Ibanez or another more traditional hardware on guitars. I appreciate the input! None of this was meant as a negative on Strandberg, just a comparison I think a lot of people wanted. I still loved the Strandbergs I owned and plan to eventually own another one (as stated I want to try the Essential) You can also see my video on restringing the Strandberg here: ruclips.net/video/AgaiWcAf01o/видео.html If I'm doing something wrong let me know!
@@MrAustinMusic I will have to watch your restring video. Other than the one Strandberg I have with a trem, I find them no more difficult than any other guitar. The one with the trem is kind of along the same lines as a Floyd Rose process because it is essentially the same thing (strings secured at the bridge AND the string locks at the top). You have to block the trem, but if you use the same string gauge, there should be no need to change intonation or any setup stuff.
I agree, the trem version is pretty similar to a Floyd Rose. I created a small block when I would do string changes on those. Again, I just don’t remember if the low E was a problem on those but it was on my Standard without a trem. I never had to adjust the setup, intonation or anything after setting it up the first time. Other than slightly adjusting the truss rod through the seasons of the year once everything was set they stayed put. Better than any other guitar I had. The Ibanez has been holding up just as wel!
While the build quality of each of them was great, I found playing open chords (something I do a lot of with my students) to be less than comfortable with the endure neck. If I was playing more for myself personally it would’ve been less of an issue.
I use the Kliq AirCell straps (you can find them on Amazon). They’re a bit pricey but really comfortable. I also recommend a standard strap but you can get a D’Addario strap cushion. It isn’t as comfortable, but if you have a strap you like it can save you some cash.
@@kenanjouglet1424 Anytime, I switched to this strap after using the D'Addario locking straps for over a decade. I really like them, and they have helped me a bit with existing neck/shoulder pain. So I think it can be a good option for you!
As a person who is currently choosing between Essential and Q52, I found everything I could think of addressed in this video. Thank you so much, sir.
Glad I could help!
One of the best videos reviewing these guitars. Thank you.
Thank you for watching!
Ergonomics are very individual. The Q Series sits in a perfect 45° angle if you place it like between your legs, bridge on the right thigh. Sits a bit lower than classical position, which is just perfect to take the strain off my right shoulder and put my left hand in the right position. Like this, the output jack is in the perfect spot. It's almost like it is meant to be played this way...
Tried multiple Strandberg and Q/QX, bought the QX52. Bridge and nut of the Ibanez are objectively better for setup and tuning.
Preferences for String heights are also individual. I like to set it myself (or in the case of the QX52, letting my Luthier do it for me). So again, the Ibanez was perfect for me.
The Pickups are ok, the 10-way electronics are great.The Q52 costs about $750, not $1000. Totally fine by me.
About the Designs, the Strandberg is a bit like the Cybertruck to me. A bit shocking at first, but interesting. Then, for a short time, it was like the coolest thing ever. Now, it seems more like a Meme to me, honestly.
With the QX52, I experience the opposite. At first, I was like, "meh..." but then started to like it more and more every day!
Also, so easy to put aside quickly and just lean it on something! It also fits with all my stands and hangers. This convenience really can't be overrated, in my opinion.
Great review, thanks!
Thanks for the comment! I’ve been using the Quest for a bit now and I noticed if I put the strap on the bottom strap button it sits better on my thigh. I love the Quest and enjoy it more than I did the Strandbergs. I still personally liked the body shape of the Strandberg better but you’re on point with the setup process being objectively better in the Quest. Other than have to file the nut slots a lot (we’re talking notes going completely sharp at the 1st fret without this tweak) it was near perfect from the store. Out of curiosity you said they cost $750 not $1000 but looking at SweetWater there isn’t one listed under $999 USD. Where did you find it for less?
@@MrAustinMusic Sorry for the confusion, I live in Switzerland and my brain seems to be stuck in the recent past, when USD and Swiss Franks were approx. equal for a few years. It seems crazy to me, when I was a kid, a dollar was about 2.90 SFR. Now it is 3 times less... I can't say I fully understand why...
The laser blue Q52 was 750 SRF half a year ago, now the cheapest I can find is 790 SRF, which is about 890 USD. Delivery to the US would be another $49, so yeah..
Makes sense, thank you for clarifying!
Very good video and interesting comparison between Strandbergs and Ibanez Q, the best until now!
Thank you!
@@MrAustinMusic Will wait for a review of the new Boden Essential!
I have owned 3 Strandbergs. Long story short, the Strandberg design really shines on 7 and 8 string models and their multiscale design, as far as ease of play and intonation, is the best in the industry.
I haven’t owned a 7 or 8 string but played the 7 and was blown away. I expected that I’d have to adjust to the fanned fret design but with the endur neck it was no issue.
also really nice talking points, good video
Great video and very interesting comparison. I agree with a lot of your views about Strandbergs and despite some minor negatives, my Strandberg is the best experience I ever had with a guitar.
Now the Ibanez Q looks very promising for me, but the input jack and body ergonomics regarding playing in a more classical position concerns me. Also as you mentioned as well, I have seen many complaints about the nut on the Q. The new matte copper Q guitar with white pick guard looks so nice though, I will have to try to test it somewhere.
The nut was pretty much unacceptable at this price point. However I have all the tools to do setup work, so it didn’t take long to remedy. Most people don’t just have nut files laying around though.
I think the guitar is worth it still, but it could’ve benefited from a setup (which imo all stores should try and do).
I’ve put several hours into playing with this guitar over the past one and a half months. Holding it is slightly less comfortable while playing is slightly more. It should be worth a try!
@@MrAustinMusic I heard from multiple people with unacceptable nuts on their Q that had to be fixed by a luthier. But I imagine it should be an easy fix if you buy in a store and not online. I will definitely give the Q a try soon.
You could try a right-angled cable. Maybe not perfect but might help with the jack?
I've got a QX52. I'm really happy with it but have been curious about strandbergs so this video is helpful. Clear and well presented. Thank you
I actually tried a right angled jack (should’ve mentioned that in the video). It was actually more annoying with that cable. It either forced the cable to run in the opposite direction and loop back, or dig further into my leg. At least with a straight one I can sit the cable between my legs mostly.
Glad you liked the video, if you ever do try a Strandberg let me know!
@@MrAustinMusicfunny how for the Q line Ibanez went for a new style of body, new pickups, new headstock, bridge and tuners, yet the same stupid jack placement
Does anyone know why they don't place it angled on the guitar top, Stratocaster-style?
I thought the same thing. They could have a recessed jack just how they have on the S series or the AZ series of guitars and it would've worked better.
Ibanez would be the only one with that answer I'm sure.
@@em_the_bee I think no one designing those guitars has ever played Classical position lol. They've nailed everything else, but yeah, I hope they get feedback from an artist or something soon.
I bought the sea foam green Ibanez Q. My only 2 complaints are I wish it had the classical contour around the knobs like you said. Also every time it sites for a while; it's a little out of tune. I know that's normal for a guitar; but I assumed the tuning would be amazing on a headless guitar.
You know the tuning thing was something I noticed as well, but I think it depends on how it was strung. I noticed if I load the ball end of the string into the saddle then tighten the tuner so that the ball is firmly in place the tuning is more stable.
It isn't generally that unstable for me, but I did notice a difference when not first tightening the ball end of the string into place before using the locking point past the nut.
Worth a try, I figured it was just me to be honest. haha
Great structure. Thank you for sharing.
10:38 - Awesome! What's that device/software? Would love to get a more detailed video about that software : price/functionning/opinion
If I may it'd be awesome to have the video cut into chapters for a better watching experience
I can definitely add in Chapters, I don’t usually because I thought RUclips automatically did. Haha
The device is called TriplePlay Connect. It is by Fishman, and the software is the software corresponding with the device. Mine is the wired version but they have a more expensive wireless one ($300 I believe for the wireless). The wired version was discontinued as far as I know.
I can definitely do a video on it at some point in the near future though!
Chapters have been added!
For me the biggest let down on the Q series (other than jack placement) is the lack of tremolo. Strandberg tremolo is excellent.
I’m hopeful they’ll release an updated version with either a second jack placed more effectively, and a trem. Only time will tell!
Jack is in the perfect place for a L jack. Great to balance on the right leg.
@@iursnitram I didn't mention it in the video (probably should have). I did try using a right angled cable instead of a straight. the Cable either had to run to my left which is the opposite side it plugs into the guitar (no convenient cable flow for me unfortunately), or if I ran it to the right it jabbed into my leg even more so than a straight cable.
The straight cable is functional, just offsets how it sits to be slightly less ideal. If your setup allows for an angle cable running the wire to the left it is probably a better experience.
p.s. I also need a right angle plug to go to my interface for cable flow, and I couldn't unfortunately find a right angle to right angle guitar lead. I tried an angle adapter (only could find one 1/4" to 1/4" angled adapter, but it unfortunately broke within a week of using it).
@@MrAustinMusic Yes, I am running right angled cable to the left. I find the jack even helps holding the guitar.
You might want to look into Hils. Ergo body w/ trem for only $500. I love my Strandberg Classic NX, but if I couldn't get on with the Enduraneck/multiscale it's definitely what I'd look at. For much less than a Q you could put any pickups you want in it, as well as a FreeWay switch, and get a much more versatile guitar.
Great video, the gate on your voice is too high tho, sometimes it cuts off your voice and the playing 🤘🏼
Ah, good catch. Thank you for letting me know! I'll have to mix the tracks separately (something not necessary for lessons but for videos makes sense). I appreciate you!
I was in the opposite position.
I started with a Q specifically the Ibanez ichi10 (ichika nitos signature with the SSS setup).
I traded mine after a year for a strandberg boden essential 6 due to my Q being very poor with QC, same issue with high nut and also sharp fret ends, and unleveled frets. Ive now had my strandberg essential for about 5-6 months, and at first it was very surprising. The guitars do feel very much more premium and im on the same boat of liking the enurneck for just single note things but for chords it does seem more awkward.
The tuners and locking mechanism is way better on the ibanez Q series, strandbergs honestly requires way more work to do the same things, such as intonation or action.
After 6 months now though, I’m looking to sell my strandberg boden essential 6. The guitar is honestly really nice and had no issues. But Im going in the opposite direction now and back to regular guitars. And getting an Ibanez AZ2402 prestige.
Hoping one day Ibanez will release a prestige model Q series!
This is some awesome insight! I do love both guitars, but playing the Q for a couple months now I do find myself missing the Strandberg because it just felt more premium in the hand. I definitely do miss playing more traditional styles of guitars more though.
If you're in the US or Canada and list the Boden Essential on Reverb let me know. I might be interested in getting my hands on one, just haven't decided if I want to spend the money yet.
Cheers!
Hi could you please let me know what attachment/ program that is to record your fretboard diagram that’s really cool
Sure thing! I plan on doing a video on it at some point. The device is called TriplePlay Connect by Fishman. The software is the included one for the device. The Connect has been discontinued though, but there is a wireless version. I'm not sure if that is still being made.
Any other questions just let me know!
Thank you so much it’s really appreciated also great review and comparison of the 2 best headless guitars rn, keep up the good work 🎉
I figured you might want to know, but the TriplePlay Connect midi pickup I mentioned was not discontinued, instead it was rebranded as TriplePlay Express for the wired version, and TriplePlay Wireless for the wireless one.
I think you are making the Strandberg restring much more difficult than it really is or needs to be. There are a bunch of restring videos on here where they do it in a few minutes. I have 4 Strandbergs and have NEVER had a problem getting the low E through the string lock. The only reason I can imagine it would be an issue is if you are going beyond the string gauge that the string lock can take. If you stick in the 46 to 48 gauge string range, I have had no issues.
As far as intonation or string height, there is a little back and forth but this only comes up if you change string gauges.
Thanks for the reply Daniel! I was using 10-46 strings on my Strandberg, and watched all the videos. It was just that string that was an issue. Could've been an issue specifically on that one guitar, but I can't recall if I had the issue on the Standard NX or Classic I had (this is referencing the Standard I had which was before NX hardware revision).
Yeah, intonation, string height, all of that wasn't difficult to setup. I'm just saying it isn't as easy as the Ibanez or another more traditional hardware on guitars.
I appreciate the input! None of this was meant as a negative on Strandberg, just a comparison I think a lot of people wanted. I still loved the Strandbergs I owned and plan to eventually own another one (as stated I want to try the Essential)
You can also see my video on restringing the Strandberg here: ruclips.net/video/AgaiWcAf01o/видео.html
If I'm doing something wrong let me know!
@@MrAustinMusic I will have to watch your restring video. Other than the one Strandberg I have with a trem, I find them no more difficult than any other guitar. The one with the trem is kind of along the same lines as a Floyd Rose process because it is essentially the same thing (strings secured at the bridge AND the string locks at the top). You have to block the trem, but if you use the same string gauge, there should be no need to change intonation or any setup stuff.
I agree, the trem version is pretty similar to a Floyd Rose. I created a small block when I would do string changes on those. Again, I just don’t remember if the low E was a problem on those but it was on my Standard without a trem. I never had to adjust the setup, intonation or anything after setting it up the first time. Other than slightly adjusting the truss rod through the seasons of the year once everything was set they stayed put. Better than any other guitar I had. The Ibanez has been holding up just as wel!
why'd you sell your strandbergs?
While the build quality of each of them was great, I found playing open chords (something I do a lot of with my students) to be less than comfortable with the endure neck.
If I was playing more for myself personally it would’ve been less of an issue.
Hey, I'm trying yo find a fat guitar strap like you have do you have any suggestions please?
I use the Kliq AirCell straps (you can find them on Amazon). They’re a bit pricey but really comfortable. I also recommend a standard strap but you can get a D’Addario strap cushion. It isn’t as comfortable, but if you have a strap you like it can save you some cash.
@@MrAustinMusic Thank for you answer, I'm asking this because I tend to have neck and back problems especially on cervical
@@kenanjouglet1424 Anytime, I switched to this strap after using the D'Addario locking straps for over a decade. I really like them, and they have helped me a bit with existing neck/shoulder pain. So I think it can be a good option for you!
@@MrAustinMusic thank you I really appreciate the advice
I tried one and sent it back, the sound was very thin other than that it was a pretty good guitar, just not for me
I will admit the sound isn’t my favorite, but there are so many variations in switching I’ve found a sweet spot that offends my ears less. haha