After more than 2 years of abstinence, I went to the Music Station again and played 3 Fender American Professional II Strats, and again I noticed that the woods had little vibrancy, the maple necks were not very dense and responsive, there was little twang, little crunch , wiry-glassy, few overtones, sustain, attack, everything you associate with Fender guitars, everything is less than on my ESP 400 Series Strats and less than on my BLADE Texas models. This can be tested objectively and I can only say that I am extremely disappointed with this price-performance ratio. No, I can no longer objectively understand this adulation regarding Fender Strats. My first Stratocaster was a Fender American Standard Stratocaster and that was my worst guitar of all, a Fender Mexico Standard followed after that, but after I played the ESPs and the BLADEs everything was clear to me, and that proves itself again, every time, when I compare, the same result always comes out - what else can I say, it is true! The ESP-400-Series Strats and the BLADEs have objectively, noticeably and audibly better tonewood, the BLADEs even have a flattened neck-body-joint and covered fret slots and therefore much better playability!!! So, I'm done with Fender, I'm playing something clever, and at a much cheaper price. I don't want to talk anyone out of their love of Fender, I have nothing against you buying the (usually) worse guitars for a far too exorbitant price, you're welcome to do that. Then there will be more BLADEs for me, very simple! Thanks for listening!
Got the identical guitar (as you can see from my avatar). Like you, I fell in love with it immediately. Amazing build quality, excellent feel and the case is incredible too! Now if only I could thrash it like you! Great playing brother!
After more than 2 years of abstinence, I went to the Music Station again and played 3 Fender American Professional II Strats, and again I noticed that the woods had little vibrancy, the maple necks were not very dense and responsive, there was little twang, little crunch , wiry-glassy, few overtones, sustain, attack, everything you associate with Fender guitars, everything is less than on my ESP 400 Series Strats and less than on my BLADE Texas models. This can be tested objectively and I can only say that I am extremely disappointed with this price-performance ratio. No, I can no longer objectively understand this adulation regarding Fender Strats. My first Stratocaster was a Fender American Standard Stratocaster and that was my worst guitar of all, a Fender Mexico Standard followed after that, but after I played the ESPs and the BLADEs everything was clear to me, and that proves itself again, every time, when I compare, the same result always comes out - what else can I say, it is true! The ESP-400-Series Strats and the BLADEs have objectively, noticeably and audibly better tonewood, the BLADEs even have a flattened neck-body-joint and covered fret slots and therefore much better playability!!! So, I'm done with Fender, I'm playing something clever, and at a much cheaper price. I don't want to talk anyone out of their love of Fender, I have nothing against you buying the (usually) worse guitars for a far too exorbitant price, you're welcome to do that. Then there will be more BLADEs for me, very simple! Thanks for listening!
I have this guitar in Miami Blue and it's beautiful with some caveats. On the good side the pickups are excellent, micro tilt is very handy, and it stays in tune pretty well. Now the bad side is the fretwork and setup were atrocious. I had 6 high frets and bad fret sprout. I then noticed how the bridge was bottomed out with the screws sticking so far out of the saddle and realized the neck angle was way off which the micro tilt feature took care of. Still wondering how this guitar made it out of the factory. So after leveling the frets and doing a proper setup which I do all myself, the guitar plays 10 times better and is now worthy of the Fender name. For $1700 I should not have to do one thing to the guitar but this is typical for Fender.
Alot of people don't like or just don't understand the micro tilt neck function. The primary function of the tilt neck is to change the action on the fly due to climate change when you don't have time to mess with the saddles while gigging.
Great video, really appreciate all the close up angles that allowed us to get a real good look at the guitar. I’m considering this very guitar and your video made me really want it now!! Nice playing too man.
Thank you! Hey just in case you may not be aware, I posted a lesson video today on my channel and I use this guitar in the lesson video. There are two backing tracks at the end and you can hear more tones out of it (if you’re interested) hope this is helpful too!
The setup is a very personal matter. I spent about 5 hours getting mine playable to my liking. and I've had the guitar for a couple weeks now and I'm still working on the pickup elevation and slants.
i’m definitely gonna get one for my bday 🔥🔥🔥 question tho, is it possible to play chase atlantic songs on this guitar ? like friends, or meddle about etc ? or can you play anything on it ?
Great video. I got one in Dark Night with rosewood fretboard. It's my first Strat (I have a Tele and a 335) and it's a great instrument. It plays so smoothly on the neck. Hard to put down actually. The color/paint is amazing. Sometimes I just stare at it and admire the beauty. Almost compromised and thought of getting the Roadhouse but the cost and additional for the same case was getting too close to the American which came with the really nice case. It's inspiring me to play more, which is a good thing. Thanks for your review and demo.
I almost bought a Dark Night. It’s a beautiful guitar. I agree, these are VERY inspiring guitars and sound/play amazing. Thanks for the comment and enjoy your Strat!
@@nicksonthevet Not sure if you were asking the original poster or me. My 2 cents - I love the AP2 Strat. It just feels different (in a good way). Great tones and plays great. The neck is so smooth. Not sure if I'll want/need another Strat. I have two Tele's (Fender and G&L)...but only one Strat...so far. 🙂
Beautiful. I've ordered the HSS version in Dark Knight and Rosewood fretboard. Can't wait. I have a 2004 USA Strat and a Player series. But this Pro 2 looks like a whole nother level compared to the 2004 Strat.
This one is so nice. I'm torn between this and the Mystic Surf Green. If I were to get this I'd swap the pickguard for a mint green. Thanks for the closeups! I'm one step further to choosing this colour.
Great review, thanks!! Is the Olympic White actually pure white or a little cream colored? I'm hoping the latter. Certain pics i see of it it looks kinda creamy, but maybe that's just the room lights.
@imaguandaloops Hey! It’s 2 years on. Did you get the Strat? I hope so. I agree the little cream to the white is so perfect, especially with the reddish tortoise shell pick-guard with cream flecks. I myself am almost at the BUY NOW for roasted pine body and rosewood neck. However, where I live my have an active “free shelf” (it’s artist lofts so good folks who donate some nice stuff) and I found in a grocery bag marked “Jazzmaster” which I expected to be old high-impact aerobics VHS tapes instead the loaded pick guard, hardware etc. for an Ultra Jazzmaster!? I need to source a body and neck. The pick-guard is that tortoise so I’m thinking I’ll do the JM in creamy white for my first ever guitar “build” (more like guitar assembly, haha.)
I run my demos for RUclips with a fractal ax8 in stereo. I usually go with a Suhr Badger amp sim for my Strat. Just easy to dial in tone for RUclips Live I typically just use amp gain. My favorite drive pedal is my sansamp tech 21 😎
After setting up my 2018 Pro1 and my new Pro2 I think I have found the difference between the V-mod1 and the V-mod2. To my ear, it seems that the 2 is wound lighter than the 1. I'm hearing a much brighter tone coming from the 2. Nothing uncontrollable, but I have to keep the tone controls down to 7 to get the tones I get at 10 on the Pro1. Have you compared the two different models? Both are as versatile as any of my Strats.
Great video, excellent review and demo. Thanks. I bought mine last week (I’m in the US, but I am from Brazil). And I’m really struggling to take the tremolo bar of the bridge. I mean, it is really hard to pop it out. Is it normal? Do I need to fix anything? Thanks. Alessandro 🇧🇷🎸
Thank you! It’s hard to get you. You literally have to lay the thing flat and brace it with hand. And pull the bar out with the other. Not a big deal, but it’s in there!!!
After more than 2 years of abstinence, I went to the Music Station again and played 3 Fender American Professional II Strats, and again I noticed that the woods had little vibrancy, the maple necks were not very dense and responsive, there was little twang, little crunch , wiry-glassy, few overtones, sustain, attack, everything you associate with Fender guitars, everything is less than on my ESP 400 Series Strats and less than on my BLADE Texas models. This can be tested objectively and I can only say that I am extremely disappointed with this price-performance ratio. No, I can no longer objectively understand this adulation regarding Fender Strats. My first Stratocaster was a Fender American Standard Stratocaster and that was my worst guitar of all, a Fender Mexico Standard followed after that, but after I played the ESPs and the BLADEs everything was clear to me, and that proves itself again, every time, when I compare, the same result always comes out - what else can I say, it is true! The ESP-400-Series Strats and the BLADEs have objectively, noticeably and audibly better tonewood, the BLADEs even have a flattened neck-body-joint and covered fret slots and therefore much better playability!!! So, I'm done with Fender, I'm playing something clever, and at a much cheaper price. I don't want to talk anyone out of their love of Fender, I have nothing against you buying the (usually) worse guitars for a far too exorbitant price, you're welcome to do that. Then there will be more BLADEs for me, very simple! Thanks for listening!
@Marty5150 Nice playing! I am primarily a Les Paul/2 humbucker player and recently thought of grabbing one of these. I know I will have to re-EQ all amps and everything., but is there any other weirdness coming from a Les Paul to this? Would love it to play Trower, Jeff Beck, Clapton, etc., just don't want to get it and have it collect dust.
Hey man, thank you! Ok so I am a Les Paul guy myself. I never could get used to a strat (just super VH strats built for speed) I’m all honesty this guitar was easy to transition to from a players standpoint. Also the new VMod pickups sound great. I never adjusted my amp settings. The guitar has a lot of warmth to it. I would highly recommend picking one out in person just to be sure you get the mojo you’re looking for. I think the bridge and carved neck heal really helped me out. Also the neck feels fast. It’s a ripper man!
@@Ranch5150SkinWalker Thanks for the feedback Marty, that is really helpful! I'm close to pulling that trigger... Challenging to pick one out as a lefty since most places might have 1 vs. a few to choose from. Hey, if I have to buy it online and don't like it/bond with it, I could send it back. Getting closer...
I’ve done a fair amount Of research and for the money this seems to be the best model. Also the best color but with the rosewood neck and change the pick guard.;)
Thank you for the comment! I really love this guitar. Funny thing is I tried a rosewood model and a few others in the shop and this Strat sounded the best. I was not that fond of it at first from an appearance standpoint but have grown to love it. It just really spoke to me sonically. The Dark Knight model was the one I was going to buy, it sounded a bit flatter. This one just popped sonically. These models are awesome and really fun to play.
I experienced that when i determined I would buy my first Les Paul the day after my mother died. (Wanted something that looked sweet but could churn out some devilish Jimmy Page chords on command, something heavy around my neck and extra solid in my hands.) Planned on a cherry sunburst standard but left with a Classic in Honeyburst as it was just the one. I didn’t even know about its push-pull options so I’m kind of laughing at myself how now the push-push system here seems like a great compliment to the Lester. Thanks for a great review and demo. I’m craving the Pine roast body, rosewood neck.
i love it sounds great - i was playing 3k les pauls in GC and that exact strat you got played easier the frets were perfect and i loved it ! I already have 2 strats though help
I played 3 and all needed bridge adjustment and action altering. I did buy one and ( number 4 ) and had to level the bridge and adjust action . The white grip has come off the tremelo arm and theres some minor finishing isues on back of neck . Apart from that its great and sounds excellent. Stays in tune well . I got the hss and love the split mode. Sounds excellent in sc and humbucker mode .
After more than 2 years of abstinence, I went to the Music Station again and played 3 Fender American Professional II Strats, and again I noticed that the woods had little vibrancy, the maple necks were not very dense and responsive, there was little twang, little crunch , wiry-glassy, few overtones, sustain, attack, everything you associate with Fender guitars, everything is less than on my ESP 400 Series Strats and less than on my BLADE Texas models. This can be tested objectively and I can only say that I am extremely disappointed with this price-performance ratio. No, I can no longer objectively understand this adulation regarding Fender Strats. My first Stratocaster was a Fender American Standard Stratocaster and that was my worst guitar of all, a Fender Mexico Standard followed after that, but after I played the ESPs and the BLADEs everything was clear to me, and that proves itself again, every time, when I compare, the same result always comes out - what else can I say, it is true! The ESP-400-Series Strats and the BLADEs have objectively, noticeably and audibly better tonewood, the BLADEs even have a flattened neck-body-joint and covered fret slots and therefore much better playability!!! So, I'm done with Fender, I'm playing something clever, and at a much cheaper price. I don't want to talk anyone out of their love of Fender, I have nothing against you buying the (usually) worse guitars for a far too exorbitant price, you're welcome to do that. Then there will be more BLADEs for me, very simple! Thanks for listening!
Man I just don’t know. I want a ‘high end’ guitar and I’m torn between a (lefty) American professional strat, gibson les Paul classic and 60s standard. Like them all in different ways. Love Strats generally but I like me a humbucker as well… I’m finding it an impossible choice to make
Well? Did you buy a Strat? I was going to say, the amp and pedal choices will come! Get such a great instrument and getting the tones you want will certainly happen over time. Peace.
Lay the guitar flat on it’s back. Brace the guitar with your left hand on the body and grab the bar where it bends like an L and firmly pull out. If that won’t work take it to a tech and see if there is something causing it to stay lodged in there.
I tried a rosewood one while deciding on which one to get, and I thought the maple neck had a little more lively sounding quality to the texture. Especially in the neck position. Rosewood was nice though.
Hard to say. I think they will if the market continues the way it has. It’s always a good idea to get USA Fenders and Gibsons. At the best price that you can of course. Resale is best for these models.
Just got mine and love everything about it. The case is great, the playability is so smooth and buttery. Mine’s rosewood. Thinking about upgrading the tuners to F locking
Hi I have bought the same guitar but with humbucker and whole rosewood neck I love it. I have a little issue, the last 2 strings B and E when played open has a little (sitar effect). What do you suggest? One more question, what gauges do you suggest for it?
It could be something as simple as a small truss rod adjustment. Give it 1/4 turn to the left and loosen it a tad. If that doesn’t work try another 1/4 turn. Sometimes it’s the nut of the guitar but I doubt it since this guitar is new. I always use 9’s on strats.
@@BobK5 maybe check the nut and the tightness of the tuners. Could be a simple thing too. I had a PRS like that once. Tuners were a little lose and the nut needed a little graphite. Fixed it up. But I could have been lucky. 🍀
was enjoying this until you played little wing, sheez, the forbidden riff, any guitar store where i am will throw you out in the street you play that, sweet home was ok i though alright ill cop that but turned off with jimi, i dream of one day seeing a strat demo without playing little wing, i turned it off you were probably about to play smoke on the water or stairway to heaven 🤣
Bought one today. 2023 model. My first Fender.
I bought it Fender American professional II left handed after watching your performance
Congrats! I hope you love it. They are sweet guitars!!
Same finish?
After more than 2 years of abstinence, I went to the Music Station again and played 3 Fender American Professional II Strats, and again I noticed that the woods had little vibrancy, the maple necks were not very dense and responsive, there was little twang, little crunch , wiry-glassy, few overtones, sustain, attack, everything you associate with Fender guitars, everything is less than on my ESP 400 Series Strats and less than on my BLADE Texas models. This can be tested objectively and I can only say that I am extremely disappointed with this price-performance ratio. No, I can no longer objectively understand this adulation regarding Fender Strats. My first Stratocaster was a Fender American Standard Stratocaster and that was my worst guitar of all, a Fender Mexico Standard followed after that, but after I played the ESPs and the BLADEs everything was clear to me, and that proves itself again, every time, when I compare, the same result always comes out - what else can I say, it is true! The ESP-400-Series Strats and the BLADEs have objectively, noticeably and audibly better tonewood, the BLADEs even have a flattened neck-body-joint and covered fret slots and therefore much better playability!!! So, I'm done with Fender, I'm playing something clever, and at a much cheaper price. I don't want to talk anyone out of their love of Fender, I have nothing against you buying the (usually) worse guitars for a far too exorbitant price, you're welcome to do that. Then there will be more BLADEs for me, very simple! Thanks for listening!
@@Ingeborg323we don't care about your point of view. We love our Fenders, go rant anywhere else. 🖕🏽
Got the identical guitar (as you can see from my avatar). Like you, I fell in love with it immediately. Amazing build quality, excellent feel and the case is incredible too! Now if only I could thrash it like you! Great playing brother!
Congrats man! It certainly is a beautiful guitar both aesthetically and sonically! And thank you for the nice comment.
After more than 2 years of abstinence, I went to the Music Station again and played 3 Fender American Professional II Strats, and again I noticed that the woods had little vibrancy, the maple necks were not very dense and responsive, there was little twang, little crunch , wiry-glassy, few overtones, sustain, attack, everything you associate with Fender guitars, everything is less than on my ESP 400 Series Strats and less than on my BLADE Texas models. This can be tested objectively and I can only say that I am extremely disappointed with this price-performance ratio. No, I can no longer objectively understand this adulation regarding Fender Strats. My first Stratocaster was a Fender American Standard Stratocaster and that was my worst guitar of all, a Fender Mexico Standard followed after that, but after I played the ESPs and the BLADEs everything was clear to me, and that proves itself again, every time, when I compare, the same result always comes out - what else can I say, it is true! The ESP-400-Series Strats and the BLADEs have objectively, noticeably and audibly better tonewood, the BLADEs even have a flattened neck-body-joint and covered fret slots and therefore much better playability!!! So, I'm done with Fender, I'm playing something clever, and at a much cheaper price. I don't want to talk anyone out of their love of Fender, I have nothing against you buying the (usually) worse guitars for a far too exorbitant price, you're welcome to do that. Then there will be more BLADEs for me, very simple! Thanks for listening!
Got one yesterday in same colour with rosewood fretboard, very satisfied.
I have this guitar in Miami Blue and it's beautiful with some caveats. On the good side the pickups are excellent, micro tilt is very handy, and it stays in tune pretty well. Now the bad side is the fretwork and setup were atrocious. I had 6 high frets and bad fret sprout. I then noticed how the bridge was bottomed out with the screws sticking so far out of the saddle and realized the neck angle was way off which the micro tilt feature took care of. Still wondering how this guitar made it out of the factory. So after leveling the frets and doing a proper setup which I do all myself, the guitar plays 10 times better and is now worthy of the Fender name. For $1700 I should not have to do one thing to the guitar but this is typical for Fender.
Alot of people don't like or just don't understand the micro tilt neck function.
The primary function of the tilt neck is to change the action on the fly due to climate change when you don't have time to mess with the saddles while gigging.
Great video, really appreciate all the close up angles that allowed us to get a real good look at the guitar. I’m considering this very guitar and your video made me really want it now!! Nice playing too man.
Thank you! Hey just in case you may not be aware, I posted a lesson video today on my channel and I use this guitar in the lesson video. There are two backing tracks at the end and you can hear more tones out of it (if you’re interested) hope this is helpful too!
The setup is a very personal matter. I spent about 5 hours getting mine playable to my liking. and I've had the guitar for a couple weeks now and I'm still working on the pickup elevation and slants.
Yeh for sure man. After this video I messed around with the Floyd rose height and the truss rod for a while just to get her really low.
One of the Best review of this guitar. I just ordered one of this with the dark night color with maple fretboard.
Awesome man! Congrats! Thanks for the comment and I’m glad you liked the review. 😎🤟🏻☮️☮️
Really nice overview. My Am Pro II GT11 Sweetwater exclusive arrives tomorrow and I can't wait!
Great demo. I just picked one up (sunburst/rosewood) an I agree with everything you said - best Strat I’ve ever played!
Nice after this vid picked up a lefty dark knight version can’t wait
@@hierrogm the dark knight is super good looking.
i’m definitely gonna get one for my bday 🔥🔥🔥 question tho, is it possible to play chase atlantic songs on this guitar ? like friends, or meddle about etc ? or can you play anything on it ?
Hey great playing I have this guitar but mine has the rosewood fretboard can you store the guitar in its case with the tremolo bar on
Great video. I got one in Dark Night with rosewood fretboard. It's my first Strat (I have a Tele and a 335) and it's a great instrument. It plays so smoothly on the neck. Hard to put down actually. The color/paint is amazing. Sometimes I just stare at it and admire the beauty. Almost compromised and thought of getting the Roadhouse but the cost and additional for the same case was getting too close to the American which came with the really nice case. It's inspiring me to play more, which is a good thing. Thanks for your review and demo.
I almost bought a Dark Night. It’s a beautiful guitar. I agree, these are VERY inspiring guitars and sound/play amazing. Thanks for the comment and enjoy your Strat!
How is it now? I love the maple fretboards like this one here. I wish I could afford one
@@nicksonthevet Not sure if you were asking the original poster or me. My 2 cents - I love the AP2 Strat. It just feels different (in a good way). Great tones and plays great. The neck is so smooth. Not sure if I'll want/need another Strat. I have two Tele's (Fender and G&L)...but only one Strat...so far. 🙂
@@agtrst I was asking you! Thanks for the information
Beautiful. I've ordered the HSS version in Dark Knight and Rosewood fretboard. Can't wait. I have a 2004 USA Strat and a Player series. But this Pro 2 looks like a whole nother level compared to the 2004 Strat.
Enjoy! That's a great guitar man.
This one is so nice. I'm torn between this and the Mystic Surf Green. If I were to get this I'd swap the pickguard for a mint green. Thanks for the closeups! I'm one step further to choosing this colour.
What an awesome demo 👏
Great video. Does the trem press down quite a bit when using the bar or is it very limited?
Thank you! The trem is super smooth. It is almost floating as set up by Fender. It goes down quite far. I love this guitar so much.
Thx for the demo. Looking at the exact one, they’ve gone up a bit in price.. enjoyed the noodling, good tones in there.
Thanks Alex! I appreciate it as well as you checking out the video.
Great review, thanks!! Is the Olympic White actually pure white or a little cream colored? I'm hoping the latter. Certain pics i see of it it looks kinda creamy, but maybe that's just the room lights.
Thank you for the nice comment. It is more creamy looking. More like an antique off white. Certainly not a bright white.
@@Ranch5150SkinWalker Thanks for the quick reply. I'm sold!
@@imaguandaloops I’m sure you will love it!
@imaguandaloops
Hey! It’s 2 years on. Did you get the Strat? I hope so. I agree the little cream to the white is so perfect, especially with the reddish tortoise shell pick-guard with cream flecks. I myself am almost at the BUY NOW for roasted pine body and rosewood neck. However, where I live my have an active “free shelf” (it’s artist lofts so good folks who donate some nice stuff) and I found in a grocery bag marked “Jazzmaster” which I expected to be old high-impact aerobics VHS tapes instead the loaded pick guard, hardware etc. for an Ultra Jazzmaster!? I need to source a body and neck. The pick-guard is that tortoise so I’m thinking I’ll do the JM in creamy white for my first ever guitar “build” (more like guitar assembly, haha.)
oh wow , i want exactly that with an olympic white plate as well .. "sadly" one year ago i bought the same guitar in midnight blue
Hi Marty. Nice tone- what kind of overdrive do you use? Thx. Zdeno. 🙂
I run my demos for RUclips with a fractal ax8 in stereo. I usually go with a Suhr Badger amp sim for my Strat. Just easy to dial in tone for RUclips
Live I typically just use amp gain. My favorite drive pedal is my sansamp tech 21 😎
After setting up my 2018 Pro1 and my new Pro2 I think I have found the difference between the V-mod1 and the V-mod2. To my ear, it seems that the 2 is wound lighter than the 1. I'm hearing a much brighter tone coming from the 2. Nothing uncontrollable, but I have to keep the tone controls down to 7 to get the tones I get at 10 on the Pro1. Have you compared the two different models? Both are as versatile as any of my Strats.
nice review! do you find the fretboard finish sticky after playing a while?
Thanks! No it never has bothered me. I really love the guitar!
Great playing, so articulate. Great sound also!!!!!!
Thank you very much!
What do you think about the roasted pine ones?
Awesome 🤩 mines coming next week. Rosewood neck
Awesome man! Enjoy! This guitar is a beautiful creation. 😎🙌☮️
Great video, excellent review and demo. Thanks. I bought mine last week (I’m in the US, but I am from Brazil). And I’m really struggling to take the tremolo bar of the bridge. I mean, it is really hard to pop it out. Is it normal? Do I need to fix anything? Thanks. Alessandro 🇧🇷🎸
Thank you! It’s hard to get you. You literally have to lay the thing flat and brace it with hand. And pull the bar out with the other. Not a big deal, but it’s in there!!!
Beautiful strat
After more than 2 years of abstinence, I went to the Music Station again and played 3 Fender American Professional II Strats, and again I noticed that the woods had little vibrancy, the maple necks were not very dense and responsive, there was little twang, little crunch , wiry-glassy, few overtones, sustain, attack, everything you associate with Fender guitars, everything is less than on my ESP 400 Series Strats and less than on my BLADE Texas models. This can be tested objectively and I can only say that I am extremely disappointed with this price-performance ratio. No, I can no longer objectively understand this adulation regarding Fender Strats. My first Stratocaster was a Fender American Standard Stratocaster and that was my worst guitar of all, a Fender Mexico Standard followed after that, but after I played the ESPs and the BLADEs everything was clear to me, and that proves itself again, every time, when I compare, the same result always comes out - what else can I say, it is true! The ESP-400-Series Strats and the BLADEs have objectively, noticeably and audibly better tonewood, the BLADEs even have a flattened neck-body-joint and covered fret slots and therefore much better playability!!! So, I'm done with Fender, I'm playing something clever, and at a much cheaper price. I don't want to talk anyone out of their love of Fender, I have nothing against you buying the (usually) worse guitars for a far too exorbitant price, you're welcome to do that. Then there will be more BLADEs for me, very simple! Thanks for listening!
I have the exact same guitar but mine was made in Mexico it's beautiful you made a great choice.
Awesome! I love the Mexican models. Wonderful guitars!
@Marty5150 Nice playing! I am primarily a Les Paul/2 humbucker player and recently thought of grabbing one of these. I know I will have to re-EQ all amps and everything., but is there any other weirdness coming from a Les Paul to this?
Would love it to play Trower, Jeff Beck, Clapton, etc., just don't want to get it and have it collect dust.
Hey man, thank you! Ok so I am a Les Paul guy myself. I never could get used to a strat (just super VH strats built for speed)
I’m all honesty this guitar was easy to transition to from a players standpoint. Also the new VMod pickups sound great. I never adjusted my amp settings. The guitar has a lot of warmth to it. I would highly recommend picking one out in person just to be sure you get the mojo you’re looking for. I think the bridge and carved neck heal really helped me out. Also the neck feels fast. It’s a ripper man!
@@Ranch5150SkinWalker Thanks for the feedback Marty, that is really helpful! I'm close to pulling that trigger...
Challenging to pick one out as a lefty since most places might have 1 vs. a few to choose from. Hey, if I have to buy it online and don't like it/bond with it, I could send it back.
Getting closer...
Sounds good on my Marshalls also and I'm a Les Paul guy the neck pup rocks
I e been dancing around grabbing one of these. You convinced me to do it. Man, you can play!
Thank you for the comment and the kind words! Enjoy your new Strat, I am sure you will love it as much as love mine. 😎🎶🎶🎶
Great demo. Actually has decent audio.
Thank you for the comment! I try my best to deliver on guitar tone in my videos. 😎🎶🎶
Great video!
Thanks so much! 🙌
I bought the same guitar but with the HSS option. I also got the maple neck and I love it.
Is the maple neck good for stuff like rock and metal
Are the electronics in this guitar shielded?
I’ve done a fair amount Of research and for the money this seems to be the best model. Also the best color but with the rosewood neck and change the pick guard.;)
Thank you for the comment! I really love this guitar. Funny thing is I tried a rosewood model and a few others in the shop and this Strat sounded the best. I was not that fond of it at first from an appearance standpoint but have grown to love it. It just really spoke to me sonically. The Dark Knight model was the one I was going to buy, it sounded a bit flatter. This one just popped sonically. These models are awesome and really fun to play.
I experienced that when i determined I would buy my first Les Paul the day after my mother died. (Wanted something that looked sweet but could churn out some devilish Jimmy Page chords on command, something heavy around my neck and extra solid in my hands.) Planned on a cherry sunburst standard but left with a Classic in Honeyburst as it was just the one. I didn’t even know about its push-pull options so I’m kind of laughing at myself how now the push-push system here seems like a great compliment to the Lester. Thanks for a great review and demo. I’m craving the Pine roast body, rosewood neck.
i love it sounds great - i was playing 3k les pauls in GC and that exact strat you got played easier the frets were perfect and i loved it ! I already have 2 strats though help
Good stuff man!
I played 3 and all needed bridge adjustment and action altering.
I did buy one and ( number 4 ) and had to level the bridge and adjust action .
The white grip has come off the tremelo arm and theres some minor finishing isues on back of neck .
Apart from that its great and sounds excellent. Stays in tune well . I got the hss and love the split mode. Sounds excellent in sc and humbucker mode .
Sounds killer!! 🤘🏻 🎸
Thanks! I love this strat, Fender did very well with this series!
After more than 2 years of abstinence, I went to the Music Station again and played 3 Fender American Professional II Strats, and again I noticed that the woods had little vibrancy, the maple necks were not very dense and responsive, there was little twang, little crunch , wiry-glassy, few overtones, sustain, attack, everything you associate with Fender guitars, everything is less than on my ESP 400 Series Strats and less than on my BLADE Texas models. This can be tested objectively and I can only say that I am extremely disappointed with this price-performance ratio. No, I can no longer objectively understand this adulation regarding Fender Strats. My first Stratocaster was a Fender American Standard Stratocaster and that was my worst guitar of all, a Fender Mexico Standard followed after that, but after I played the ESPs and the BLADEs everything was clear to me, and that proves itself again, every time, when I compare, the same result always comes out - what else can I say, it is true! The ESP-400-Series Strats and the BLADEs have objectively, noticeably and audibly better tonewood, the BLADEs even have a flattened neck-body-joint and covered fret slots and therefore much better playability!!! So, I'm done with Fender, I'm playing something clever, and at a much cheaper price. I don't want to talk anyone out of their love of Fender, I have nothing against you buying the (usually) worse guitars for a far too exorbitant price, you're welcome to do that. Then there will be more BLADEs for me, very simple! Thanks for listening!
Can I get that exact colour and pick guard with a rosewood fretboard?
Yes. I have one and it is beautiful!
what strings come with this out of the box?
Man I just don’t know. I want a ‘high end’ guitar and I’m torn between a (lefty) American professional strat, gibson les Paul classic and 60s standard. Like them all in different ways. Love Strats generally but I like me a humbucker as well…
I’m finding it an impossible choice to make
Should I get one? Looks amazing, but I wouldn’t even know what kind of amp or peddles to get.
Well? Did you buy a Strat?
I was going to say, the amp and pedal choices will come! Get such a great instrument and getting the tones you want will certainly happen over time. Peace.
@@strummercash5601 I found a good deal on a prs silver sky
how do you remove the tremolo?
I literally have to lay the guitar down flat. Hold it down with. Y left hand. And pull the bar out.
How the hell do you get the tremolo bar out? Mine seems to be stuck I pull on it as hard as I can but it doesn’t move.
Lay the guitar flat on it’s back. Brace the guitar with your left hand on the body and grab the bar where it bends like an L and firmly pull out. If that won’t work take it to a tech and see if there is something causing it to stay lodged in there.
What do you think about the rosewood?
I tried a rosewood one while deciding on which one to get, and I thought the maple neck had a little more lively sounding quality to the texture. Especially in the neck position. Rosewood was nice though.
Yeah, that is a nice looking guitar. These will hold their value or maybe even go up in value. What do you think?
Hard to say. I think they will if the market continues the way it has. It’s always a good idea to get USA Fenders and Gibsons. At the best price that you can of course. Resale is best for these models.
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Just got mine and love everything about it. The case is great, the playability is so smooth and buttery. Mine’s rosewood. Thinking about upgrading the tuners to F locking
I just did a session with mine yesterday. It was amazing on the recording. I may have to get a Miami blue. They’re so cool looking.
Sounds sweet
Thank you🙌
Who put that ding in the body under the input jack?
This guitar is naturally relic’d by me 😂
How you take off the tremolo bar ? it doesn´t have the screw style like other tremolo bars...
Lay strat flat … hold down with left hand. Pull bar out. It’s really in there!!!!
Hi I have bought the same guitar but with humbucker and whole rosewood neck I love it. I have a little issue, the last 2 strings B and E when played open has a little (sitar effect). What do you suggest? One more question, what gauges do you suggest for it?
It could be something as simple as a small truss rod adjustment. Give it 1/4 turn to the left and loosen it a tad. If that doesn’t work try another 1/4 turn. Sometimes it’s the nut of the guitar but I doubt it since this guitar is new. I always use 9’s on strats.
@@Ranch5150SkinWalker thanks man, appreciated
Damn it’s pretty
Thanks man!
Nice playing
I’d like to know why it doesn’t come with locking tuners like the cheaper Mexican versions?
It’s out of tune by 11 minutes, hopeless
My MIM doesn't have locking tuners. Also the Pro II I own holds tuning perfectly. 🤷
@@Ranch5150SkinWalker the Mexican ‘plus’ has locking tuners and the Strat doesn’t stay in tune even if you leave it in its case.
@@BobK5 sounds like you got a lemon. I'm so sorry man ☮️
@@BobK5 maybe check the nut and the tightness of the tuners. Could be a simple thing too. I had a PRS like that once. Tuners were a little lose and the nut needed a little graphite. Fixed it up. But I could have been lucky. 🍀
It's missing three things Wilkinson roller nut and plus pickups deluxe whammy bar
I wouldn’t change anything really. It’s perfect for me!
I have a 2005 deluxe with roller nut, rosewood fretboard. Hard to beat but I am drawn to one of these.
I just want a hard tail strat is that too much to ask LOL!
I hear ya man! But boy is this one sweet!
The offers now 1275
jimi hendrix used the stratocaster 90% of the time.
Not that model though
was enjoying this until you played little wing, sheez, the forbidden riff, any guitar store where i am will throw you out in the street you play that, sweet home was ok i though alright ill cop that but turned off with jimi, i dream of one day seeing a strat demo without playing little wing, i turned it off you were probably about to play smoke on the water or stairway to heaven 🤣