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Brand Spotlight: Getting to Know Squier Guitars

Squier Background & History

While many of you surely know the brand Squier as Fender’s little brother, did you know that the brand actually predates Fender itself?

Started in 1890 by Victor Carroll Squier, the company originally was originally created to produce strings for violins, banjos, and acoustic guitars.

It continued on successfully until 1965 when Fender purchased the company with the intention of using them as their primary string manufacturer.

Sadly, in 1975, Fender decided to instead make Fender-brand strings for their guitars and ceased Squier’s production, essentially closing the company.

As fate would have it, this was not the end for the Squire company as Fender still owned the rights and in 1982, they decided to produce cheaper, entry level guitars under the Squier brand name overseas and sell them as “Squier by Fender”.

Fender had been attempting to produce cheaper lines of their guitars under their brand name in their Fullerton factory but was finding more and more competition from cheap, asian-imported copies.

Realizing that they couldn’t keep up with the lower prices at mass production levels, Squier was reborn.

Throughout their history, Squier has produced guitars in multiple locations including China, Japan, Mexico, America, and India before modern day operations moved primarily to Korea and Indonesia.

Squier continues to be owned by Fender and reproduces cheaper models of almost all famous, well known Fender standards ranging from Stratocasters to Mustangs.

While many of their guitars are awesome values and fun to play, it is important to remember what makes them cost so much less and how that may affect performance.

First off, mass production of anything overseas is cheaper than it is in America due to loose regulation, cheap labor costs, and sometimes spotty business ethics.

Regardless of your moral or economic opinion of the American manufacturing exodus to Asia, it certainly has helped make guitars cheaper.

Secondly, they rarely use name-brand parts such as pickups, tuners, or bridges, with some exceptions for more expensive, signature models.

Generally, you will not find advanced features like binding, locking tuners, or coil tapping on any of the entry level or mid-level Squier products either.

This doesn’t mean the guitars are poor quality, especially with CNC mass production keeping guitars to strict quality standards.

You just can’t expect much more than the basics from these instruments, which is why they often make great candidates for parts-casters or hot-rodded instruments.

Squier Guitars by Fender

Popular Squier Guitar Series

Following the hugely popular Classic Vibe and Affinity Series, Fender expanded the brand into more eclectic series such as Paranormal and Sonic.

Designed to appeal to those who want a little more unique personality wrapped in a familiar design, the Paranormal series features quirky takes of mix-and-match body shapes and electronics layouts.

Squier Paranormal Series >>

Squier Sonic Series >>

Squier’s Sonic Series takes another avenue with stripped down features that appeal not only to a tighter pocket book, but embrace a more understated approach to iconic design.

Best Selling Squier Guitar Models

Most Squier models available currently run from $189.99 to $599.99 – depending on the sales source, and can be purchased directly through their site or via popular retailers like Amazon, Guitar Center, Sweetwater Sound, or American Musical Supply.

Are Squier guitars any good?

They often have a robust used market on sites like Reverb.com or eBay.com due to their high production numbers and demand by money-strapped players like me.

They currently have five main series of guitars that they regularly produce at different price points called Bullet, Affinity, Contemporary, Vintage Modified and Classic Vibe.

Discontinued lines that you may still find floating around include the ill-fated Artist series from 2012 or the Deluxe series which produced some nice Strats but not much else. Let’s take a look at some top sellers from all these lines.

Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS Pack

A perfect starter pack for anyone trying to learn electric guitar, Squier has had lots of success with this marketing tactic of packaging a guitar, amp, case, and accessories together.

They have produced these options for both the Bullet and slightly better Affinity Series and can be found at almost any major retailer.

Furthermore, they have tried some packaging of higher end Squier models with low end Fender amps but that resulted in less success.

Often, it meant only getting a guitar and amp with no case/tuner/cord as a way of keeping prices low, which was less appealing to beginners.

With a number of parents buying instruments for their children to learn on, these are an easy way for people who know little to nothing about guitars to safely and securely buy one.

These packs also come in limited acoustic and bass guitar varieties, helping beginners of all kind get their start.

For more info, you might be interested in our complete Affinity Pack review.

If You’re A New Guitar Player

All guitar players have to go through the same process of learning how to play. Today, it’s never been easier – Fender understands this and has put together a great system to help you get started with “Fender Play”.

Squier Bullet Stratocaster

The simplest of all their models, this take on a classic strat is targeted to dominate the entry level market as it features just the bare bones of Fender’s most popular guitar.

Typically retailing for $179.99 it is priced to sell to just about anyone and offers a cheap option for parents of beginners or beginners wary of spending too much money on an instrument they may not stick with.

Often times, these models are sold as part of beginner packages that include a small guitar amp, a strap, guitar cables, picks and anything else you may need to learn to play guitar.

These are incredibly popular and are often the first guitars for many of the players in the latest generations, but they come with limited finish options and don’t feature the tuning stability or fast necks of their Fender counterparts.

Squier Affinity Series Telecaster

Are Squier Affinity telecasters any good?

A step up from the Bullet series is the Affinity series which offers more finish options as well as introducing a Jazzmaster model to the world.

Currently costing $229.99 these are not crazy expensive but are generally regarded as one of the best values in the guitar world and feature much better craftsmanship.

Our writer Matt says, “I even recently purchased one of these Tele’s to turn into a partscaster-copy of Joe Strummer’s famous black Tele and was shocked at how much I liked it before any upgrades.”

These are still entry level guitars but definitely make it a little bit easier to learn on as mine had great tuning stability and a comfortable neck. Also, they tend to come in more traditional Fender finishes such as Butterscotch,

Race Green, or 2-color Sunburst in addition to the White and Black variations of the Bullet line.

Find out more in our complete Telecaster Affinity Review here.

Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HH

Checking in for the Contemporary Series we have a gorgeous Strat with two zebra stripe humbuckers with a finish headstock.

This line was created to add some modern updates to Squier’s family of instruments that target musicians playing high-gain or metal music.

While super-strats have long been the instrument of choice for shredders, hard rockers, and the like, they have often gone for instruments from Jackson, Charvel, or ESP in lieu of hot rodded Fender products.

The Contemporary Series offers Strats with HH, HSH, SSH, and even active EMG-style humbuckers and beautiful, bright finishes to get any 80’s hair rock or modern metalhead in on the bandwagon.

While still incredibly affordable, these are some of the more expensive Squier guitars coming in around $449.99 or more.

Squier Classic Vibe ‘70s Telecaster Thinline

Last but not least is one of Squier’s best series of instruments, the Classic Vibe series. They tend to cost in the mid-hundreds range – the starting price for many of Fender’s made in Mexico series. Still, they have received great critical and commercial reception.

Boasting Squier’s best hardware and pickups, often referred to as “Fender-designed” meaning that they made overseas copies of the same pieces used on Fender USA models, these things play very similarly to high end Fender’s.

All of the Classic Vibe series set out to recreate the magical guitar models that were popularized in the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s by some of the world’s biggest musicians.

Their take on the ‘70s thinline is one of the most beautiful guitars we’ve seen at this price point, and even features a heavy, smooth gloss finish associated with high end models.

Squier Classic Vibe 50’s Telecaster

What is the best Squier guitar?

We’ve been asked this question many times. If we had to sum it up in one guitar, we’d have. to say it’s the best is the Squier Classic Vibe 50’s Telecaster.

We’ve had so many come across the workbench for simple mods and setups, we’ve found it to be one of the best overall Squier guitar values you can get!

For more info on this model, check out our complete Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster review.

Squier Vintage Modified Jazzmaster

An older line that is slowly being replaced by the Classic Vibe Series, the Vintage Modified line of guitars was also a huge commercial success for Squier that featured higher quality remakes of classic Fender models.

Entering the market with new re-vamped finish options, upgraded “Fender-Designed” pickups, and vintage specifications their take on the Jazzmaster produced this beautiful model for only a few hundred dollars.

These and the Vintage Modified Telecasters are incredibly popular on the second hand market currently and represent fantastic “second” guitars for players looking for an upgrade or are great live guitars for budget minded performers.

At a lower price point than many of the new Classic Vibe guitars, these are one of the best values in the Squier family.

Squier Classic Vibe P & J Basses

Squier by Fender Classic Vibe 70’s Jazz Bass Guitar

With both classic Fender basses represented in the new Classic Vibe line for only a few hundred dollars, many bass fans should rejoice.

Squier has reinvigorated its bass lines in coming years removing many Affinity and Bullet basses and replacing them with an Affinity P/J bass you’ll see later and these higher quality, more expensive models.

The Precision (P) and Jazz (J) basses are arguably the two best bass guitars ever produced and have been widely used by most musical legends.

The P bass on top features the simple, one pickup design of Fender’s P bass which has been relied on for thumping, powerful bass lines throughout rock and funk’s history.

The J bass features two pickups and more onboard EQ options than it’s Strat-bodied predecessor and has more of an offset, Jazzmaster body shape.

For the extra money over the Affinity series bases, many of the upgrades are cosmetic or have to do with the quality and playability of the neck.

The J bass features beautiful black block inlays on the maple neck while the P bass, true to its simple form, has dot inlays along an Indian Laurel fingerboard both with smooth gloss finishes.

Squier Affinity Series P/J Bass

Featuring both P and J bass pickups in the body, this represents one of Squier’s flagship entry level bass guitars at the humble price of $229.99.

With three knobs giving more variable tonal options akin to the Jazz bass, you can get a number of great tones out it as you grow as a live player or songwriter.

In the familiar Strat-like body of the P bass, it has been noted by many for being incredibly comfortable to play.

This P/J bass also comes in the aforementioned packages with case, amplifier, cables, and tuner that makes it so readily accessible to students of all ages and budgets.

However, as with some of the Affinity guitars, you are likely limited in finish options to a basic white or black.

Popular Squier Guitar Signature Models

All popular guitar brands these days are constantly competing with one another to land more and more signature artists.

With each artist endorsement or signature model, the hope is that the band’s recognition will generate sales of the instruments they use as fans try to emulate their idol’s sound.

Often times, the most willing to buy signature models are beginners or students who are looking for their first guitar to learn their favorite songs on or are looking to upgrade from that Bullet series Strat to a more dependable instrument.

J Mascis Jazzmaster

According to J Mascis, he went to a local guitar store to buy a Strat, found out it was too expensive, and walked out with a Jazzmaster, which was a very lame guitar at the time.

Little did he know, his new Jazzmaster would go on to become a guitar icon in the world of alternative rock thanks to his work with the band Dinosaur Jr.

For $499.99 you’re certainly getting a lot of guitar, comparable to a low end Fender model, for less than the $500+ price tag of Mexican or American models.

With a stunning gold pickguard and all the essential Jazzmaster features in tact, the popularity of this model has been driven more by the quality of the guitar than by the name association or fame of J Mascis.

Jim Root Telecaster

Squier’s take on a true modern metal guitar saw them partner up with a true modern metal guitar hero in Jim Root of Stone Sour and Slipknot fame.

The humbuckers may look like active EMG pickups but are actually just matte black passive Squier humbuckers that have been noted for having impressive bite and output for the price range.

Root’s Tele, which can be found on Reverb at good prices, adds a unique option for metal players on a budget who want to look past traditional ESP, Jackson, or Dean metal instruments.

Available in Flat White and Matte Black finishes Squire likely hopes continued artist diversification will pay off in the ever changing guitar retail landscape.

J5 Telecaster

Checking back into the world of modern metal and hard rock, John 5’s love of Telecasters is well known and somewhat uncharacteristic for the music he makes.

Either way, Squier teamed up with him to make one of his signature hot rodded Tele’s available on Reverb at the affordable prices with some great features.

The J5 Telecaster is one of their newest signature models released and features Alnico 5-based humbuckers, a three way selector switch that features two volume knobs and no tone, which allows you to use the selector in as a kill-switch when soloing.

This guitar, like the other signature models listed, has a beautiful finish and detailed headstock that has really made Squier unique in that many of their cheap guitars don’t look like cheap guitars.

Squier Acoustic Guitars

Squier SA-150 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

Fender makes many of its cheaper, entry level acoustics overseas under their own brand name leaving only one Squier acoustic commercially available.

The SA-150 is a budget acoustic targeted to those needing a cheap, acoustic guitar with no frills at a budget price point.

For more information on the package deal, read our full review here.

Pros Use Squier Guitars Too

Platinum-selling band Catfish and the Bottlemen have become one of the new faces of alternative and indie rock mixing the pub-rock influence of Oasis with the more textural guitar work inspired by U2’s The Edge or The Killers’ Dave Keuning.

But little did you know that frontman, rhythm guitarist, and songwriter Van McCann wrote and recorded the entire first album with one of the aforementioned Squier Jim Root Telecasters as his main instrument.

Proving you don’t need expensive gear to write quality tunes, you can hear this affordable Squier tone all over popular singles such as “Kathleen”, “Homesick”, and “Cocoon”.

McCann commented on his use of Root’s signature model: “I don’t even know him. Doesn’t he have a mask on sometimes? I use that guitar because it’s matte black and it’s got a volume knob, and that’s it. It was like £150 and I’ve swapped the scratchplates over and I’ve smashed it up, but it just doesn’t break or go out of tune.”

The post Squier Guitars [Brand Profile] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

Ever since, the guitar community has been consumed with the Telecaster vs Stratocaster debate. It’s nearly impossible to say which guitar is better, as both sides have solid arguments.

However, we can zoom in on individual features and help you decide which one is better for you specifically. For example, the Strat vs. Tele sound quality, style, build quality, and price range are significant categories well worth exploring.

Telecaster vs. Stratocaster: The Difference in Tone, Sound, Body and Electronics

* Excluding special models and custom shop instruments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Telecaster and Stratocaster

It’s not easy pitting two iconic guitars against each other and looking for a winner.

The task of categorizing them becomes even more difficult considering that both models are produced by sister companies – Fender and Squier.

Overall, Fender branded Strats and Teles cover the premium options, while the Squier brand covers the affordable yet still well-made guitars for everyone.

These categorizations and target marketing can confuse first-time buyers or guitar enthusiasts looking for their next investment.

That’s why, in order to fully understand the appeal of each style, the questions about differences are well worth examining.

What’s the Difference Between Telecaster and Stratocaster Guitars?

There’s no doubt that, for most of us, both the Stratocaster and Telecaster are beautiful, visually appealing guitars.

But the first impression starts with the body. Typically, both are made from alder, which provides excellent bite and tonal resonance.

Of course we know that other common body woods were utilized early on such as pine for the Telecaster, and swamp ash for Stratocaster bodies.

However, the shapes of the bodies are intentionally different. It’s easy to identify a Stratocaster by simply focusing on the upper part of the guitar’s body.

Additionally, when looking at the Strat and Tele tonewoods, the necks are both usually maple with either a maple or rosewood fingerboard option.

The differences being both visual and plying surface: maple is light in color with a clearcoat – in other words you’re playing on a painted surface, whereas rosewood is darker and unfinished.

Body Styles

A Stratocaster features a kind of a ‘horn’ or an ‘ear’ double cutaway with the deeper cut on the treble side allowing players easier access to higher registers.

The original Strats were also designed to be much more comfortable through the use of a tummy cut and well-rounded contours.

In comparison, the Telecaster is also easily recognizable with it’s single-cutaway and harder body contours.

Electronics

Additionally in the Strat vs. Tele neck tonewood comparison, both usually feature maple. But the difference is again stark when we compare the electronics.

The Telecaster has one tone, one volume control, and a 3-way switch, whereas the Stratocaster has one volume and two-tone controls and a 5-way switch.

Finally, the guitars have different headstocks, with Stratocaster featuring a notably larger design, which many believe gives the guitar the sustain and tone players know all about.

Which Is Better – Telecaster or Stratocaster?

The most accurate answer to this question is – it depends on who you ask and your own tastes. Many rock, jazz, and country legends would passionately argue for either of the two.

When it comes to Telecaster vs. Stratocaster sound, personal preference will play the deciding role. Hence, it’s essential to try the guitar before you buy it.

Furthermore, it’s also possible that some guitarists will adore how a Telecaster feels but will prefer the sound of Stratocaster, and vice versa.

Squier Affinity Stratocaster

If you’re a beginner, the Affinity Strat might be the best option. It has a thinner neck, and the double-cutaway improves the playability. In contrast, more experienced players will know exactly how to make the most of a guitar like Classic Vibe Telecaster.

Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster

Do Telecasters and Stratocasters Sound Different?

Seasoned guitarists will recognize the difference in sound between Telecaster and Stratocaster easily. But, generally speaking, Strats offer more tone flexibility.

Originally designed for utility and serviceability, the Telecaster is somewhat more simplistic in terms of sound.

However, it has that classic “Tele twang” which has made it a favorite among rock and blues guitarists for decades.

Designed as an evolution of the Fender’s electric guitar offerings, the Stratocaster offered more tonal flexibility with its 3 pickups and creative circuit controls.

It also features a familiar tremolo bridge which allows the player to create a distinctive vibrato effect by changing the string tension.

It’s worth noting that the Stratocaster’s original electronics design has essentially remained unchanged since the 60’s and still used in regular production.

While this is a testament to its longevity, the development of the Superstrat by Ibanez was the solution to the limitations felt by guitar players that wanted an instrument more suited to modern music trends.

Regardless, both the Telecaster and Stratocaster offer incredible sonic versatility, especially in the right hands.

In fact, there are many who would testify that both instruments are perfect and fully capable of covering virtually any musical style.

Which Is More Versatile – Strat or Tele?

Both the Strat and Tele are made from traditional electric guitar materials. Their tones, while individually distinct, are not drastically different between the two, especially when compared to a humbucker-driven Les Paul.

The overall versatility of a guitar is more apparent when we consider controls and the number of pickups on each instrument.

As mentioned, the Stratocaster has three pickups, whereas the Telecaster only has two. Naturally therefor, the Strat allows the more possibilities when it comes to range.

On the other hand, the Telecaster is widely used by pros across all music genres from John 5 to Brad Paisley – the trick is being skillful enough to pull what you want out of the Tele.

Should I Buy a Strat or a Tele?

As individual guitars, another one of the main reasons both models have such impressive longevity is that, despite their similarities, each has something the other doesn’t.

Stylistically, some players prefer the relatively punchy tones produced by the Stratocaster, others relish in the simplicity of the Telecaster.

With so many factory-offered model variations available, you can essentially pick the specifications that work for you.

And when you consider aftermarket parts for upgrades (such as pickups), there are endless options for players.

Whether you’re considering a Bullet vs. Affinity model, or a Telecaster vs. Stratocaster Classic Vibe, start with reliable research. Then the choice is totally up to you.

Is a Telecaster Good for Beginners?

If your motivation is simplicity in design, a Telecaster will certainly fit the bill. But this simplicity, compared to other models, comes at the cost of flexibility for a beginner guitarist.

Still, mastering it will prepare you well for any guitar you might pick up after that. Being a “workingman’s guitar” they’re low maintenance and don’t require expensive repairs.

The Strat on the other hand tends to offer the style and design that excites a novice player. They’re also considered to be more comfortable, sonically flexible and therefore, more suitable for beginners.

Whether you choose a Stratocaster or Telecaster, or a different guitar entirely, the Fender brand is well rounded in its ability to serve new guitar players through the help of Fender Play lessons and user-friendly guitar apps.

Telecaster vs. Stratocaster: History, Style and Players

If you want front row seats to a fierce debate, simply ask the guitar community which is better, Strat or Tele?

Those who find the styles a little old-school or behind the times might find the argument a little strange. Both guitars come from essentially the same company, and have plenty of similarities.

Perhaps the Telecaster vs Stratocaster discussion is more about the musical genres they first represented in the historical sense?

Good question, let’s find out digging down a little further.

The History

The internet is full of extremely detailed information on the origins of the Fender brand and its impact on the evolution of the electric guitar.

Still, for the purposes of this article, it’s worth looking at the underpinnings as to how we got here – discussing the virtues and shortcomings of Telecaster vs Stratocaster.

Early Years

Leo Fender started working on the nascent Telecaster in 1949 in California. A year later, the Esquire was introduced to the music scene. It was the first mass-produced and commercially successful electric guitar.

Initially, the guitar was named Broadcaster, but it needed to be renamed due to a trademark conflict with Gretsch.

Oddly enough, to meet production demands the model stayed unnamed for a while and was simply labeled ‘No-caster.’

In 1951, the prefix ‘Tele’ was applied as a way to take advantage of the rise of television.

Indeed, the Telecaster has an impressive history, but what about Stratocaster?.

Fender thought of improving the Telecaster but ended up creating an entirely new model.

Finally, in 1954, the developing guitar was fitted with an extra pickup, more contours and thus, an entirely different vibrato equipped model called the Stratocaster was introduced.

Ease of Use

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, adding to your collection, or simply looking for your next instrument, it’s natural to wonder about the practical use of each instrument.

There are plenty of dedicated opinions on both sides of the discussion, but let’s look at a few facts.

First, the Telecaster is an overall simpler guitar. While this could be considered more restrictive or unforgiving to some, others admire this simplicity and welcome the challenge to gain diversity from it.

Which side of the Tele coin are you on?

Second, Strats are generally more comfortable, and more versatile sonically. But the vibrato (sometimes called the trem) system can be a tuning headache for some – especially beginners.

It’s important to note that early models of both instruments featured a 7 1/4″ fretboard radius which, while designed to be more comfortable in the hand, usually meant the strings had to be set a little higher to avoid “fretting out”.

In other words, a little less playable if you’re big on bending strings in the upper register.

Modern models of Teles and Strats feature a somewhat flatter 9 1/2″ or 10″ radius depending on the specific model and country of origin.

Musical Style

What if you’re a rock musician, which guitar is better suited for you?

According to many, the Telecaster is a guitar that can handle almost anything. As music has evolved, it’s often the go-to choice for country, blues, rock, and in more recent decades, heavy metal guitarists.

Historically speaking, the Stratocaster’s tones and design were a better fit for emerging rock and roll. Still, it was happily adopted by blues players, pop artists, R’n’B musicians and eventually, accepted into the heavy metal world as well.

Ultimately, whether one model is more prominent in a specific music style doesn’t matter – a skilled guitarist can make any tone with any guitar. As they say, “it’s all in the hands”.

Yet for many of us, our sense of which one is better can be directly linked to those we consider our guitar heroes.

You can even compare Les Paul vs. Strat or even Telecaster vs. Les Paul debates here. Depending on your influences, a Gibson or Epiphone Les Paul is another versatile option for guitarists across all musical styles.

Telecaster vs. Stratocaster Pros and Cons

Well Known Artists

Of course, finding famous guitar players in all genres that use both Telecaster and Stratocaster is not difficult.

The following list is just a fraction of the incredibly talented players you’ll find in the music industry.

Famous Telecaster Players

A few famous Telecaster players include:

Famous Stratocaster Players

Just a few notable Stratocaster players include:

As you can see, this brief list of recognizable players of Stratocasters and Telecasters is impressive – which proves our point that even though each model has a strong following, they’re both exceptional guitars.

The post Telecaster vs Stratocaster: Which Is The Better Fender Guitar? first appeared on GuitarNiche.

There are many makes and models of guitar, but two dominate the market. The most famous guitar players typically play on Les Paul or Stratocaster guitars.

Both the Les Paul and Stratocaster have been around since the 1950s: the Les Paul since 1952, and the Stratocaster since 1954.

Les Paul vs. Stratocaster: Is There a Clear Winner?

Since their inception, they’ve had entirely different paths and manufacturing strategies.

Hence, it’s nearly impossible to have a Les Paul vs Stratocaster battle and expect a clearly dominant winner.

Simply put – there isn’t one. However, there’s plenty of evidence that they’re both individual winners in their own right.

In this article, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions that come up regarding the most prominent features of these iconic instruments.

* Made in North America excluding special models and custom shop instruments.

Common Questions About Les Pauls and Stratocasters

The fastest way to learn more about the Les Paul vs. Strat debate is by asking the relevant questions. Buying a good guitar is no small feat, nor is it an insignificant investment.

Regardless of which you choose, you’ll need at least a few hundred dollars. If you’re considering a Gibson Les Paul instead of Epiphone, that number raises to thousands.

Let’s dive into the necessary information to help you see each side of the Gibson Les Paul vs Fender Stratocaster argument.

Is a Les Paul Easier to Play Than a Strat?

Right off the bat, the question doesn’t have a straightforward answer. However, in terms of playability, we have to consider several crucial characteristics.

First, the guitar body types play a significant role. But how do size and shape make a difference in the Les Paul vs. Stratocaster reckoning? Well, the Strat has a slightly thinner body, which makes it much easier to play for many.

In comparison, Les Pauls might feel like large chunks of wood if you compare them directly to Strats. But, in actual fact, modern Les Pauls aren’t as uncomfortable compared to the vintage models.

Then, we have to consider the scale length, one of the most prominent differences between the two and relevant to playability. The Les Paul scale length is 24.75 inches, and the Strat scale length sits at 25.5 inches.

The shorter scale length of a Les Paul has makes the strings a little easier to play, but the light weight and body contours of a Strat make it more comfortable.

Many professional guitar players prefer a Les Paul due to its shorter scale because it allows greater ease of use. Generally, the Gibson scale length for all models is the same as for Les Paul guitars.

Likewise, Fender scale length is always the same on Strat’s – with few exceptions.

Finally, we have to mention the string tension which directly affects playability. As mentioned, a shorter scale length equals more string elasticity.

Les Paul wins in this round as it has a lower string session than a Stratocaster.

Is a Les Paul or a Stratocaster Better?

Considering that both guitars are incredibly well-made and come in various finishes, specs, and styles, it’s impossible to say outright whether one is better than the other.

Much like an individuals taste in music – it’s entirely subjective.

Whether you think a Les Paul or Stratocaster is better is a matter of opinion, they each have their own strengths and weaknesses. When in doubt, play it out.

Perhaps the question of whether Les Paul is superior is related to the fact that it’s typically more expensive. In addition, the Les Paul weight, usually between 9 and 12 pounds, is another reason many assume it’s a better guitar.

The Stratocaster weighs around 7 to 8.5 pounds, making it lightweight compared to a Les Paul. But a Les Paul is heavier because the mahogany body typically weighs more than alder or ash.

What Is the Difference Between a Fender Stratocaster and a Gibson Les Paul?

There are some similarities between these two fantastic guitars. For example, both can have have rosewood fingerboards. However, the differences are much more notable.

The Stratocaster has a built-on neck, whereas Les Paul’s is set and glued. We already know the differences in body and neck tonewood material.

When it comes to pickups, a Les Paul has two “hum cancelling” humbuckers and a Strat three single-coils, which can be noisy at times.

In design, the Stratocaster features one volume and two tone controls with a five-way switch for electronics. By contrast, Les Paul has two volume and two tone controls, with a three-way switch.

In sound, the Strat is highly versatile thanks to its electronics design which enables a wide tonal palette. By comparison, a Les Paul is sonically more limited, but packs one heck of a punch in output due to its dual coils.

Why Are Les Pauls More Expensive Than Strats?

Essentially, the two main reasons why the Gibson Les Paul guitar is pricier than Stratocaster are the materials used, and the build method applied.

Historically speaking, by the time Gibson started manufacturing electric guitars, they had already dominated the market with acoustic guitars and mandolins.

To this day, the emphasis on meticulous hand-crafted construction is evident in the Les Paul guitar.

With the addition of time consuming cosmetic features such as binding and inlay work, the price goes up accordingly.

Furthermore, mahogany is one of the most expensive types of wood on the market, and a standard for many custom-made guitars.

In contrast, Fender guitars, Strats included, were meant to be mass-produced from the get-go using readily available materials for every detail.

Why Did Eric Clapton Switch to Fender?

In the 1970s, Eric Clapton replaced his Gibson SG for a Fender Stratocaster and further fueled the war between the two guitar communities.

Many still wonder why he made the change, as we all know Gibson makes some of the best guitars on the planet.

While we can’t say with 100% accuracy, the standard explanation is that he was influenced by Jimmy Hendrix and his bandmates to switch to a Strat.

He famously named his first Strat ‘Brownie’ due to the color of its finish.

He then bought six more Strats and gave one to George Harrison, one to Steve Winwood, and one to Pete Townshend.

He then used the best parts of the remaining three Strats to build ‘Blackie,’ another famous Fender Strat.

Are Les Pauls Good for Beginners?

It’s essential to point out that beginners can learn how to play either a Les Paul or Strat as long as they practice.

But, as mentioned, they both have their benefits and downfalls in terms of ease of use.

For most players just starting out however, budget is a major consideration. For this reason, entry level models from the sub-brands Epiphone and Squier make more sense.

When you’re a complete novice, every guitar will seem overwhelming at first.

However, Stratocasters are lighter, have a C-shaped neck, and are often better for beginners.

What Is the Best Fender Stratocaster for the Money?

Even though they are far more affordable than Gibson Les Pauls, Strat guitars come in a wide range of prices and specs.

In terms of a meat-and-potatoes, everything you need in a US-made Strat, the most affordable option is the Fender Player Stratocaster, priced around $800.

A high-end Strat can cost up to $2,000, as is the case with the Fender American Ultra Stratocaster HSS.

It is worth noting, at the risk of stepping outside the context of true Fender USA made products, an excellent guitar that combines quality and value for money is Fender’s Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster with a price tag of around $500.

Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster

Why Are Les Pauls So Heavy?

Gibson Les Pauls are heavy because they’re slightly thicker and made from relatively dense mahogany.

Only the best mahogany is used for the bodies; the necks can be made with the same material or maple.

This in not to say that Fender products are feather-weight either. We’ve seen some, particularly from the 70’s, that were ridiculously heavy.

Over the decades, specific gravity tolerances used for body materials have been relaxed in order to make production more cost effective.

The result is that, in some cases, Fender guitars that aren’t as light as they could be.

Can a Stratocaster Sound Like a Les Paul?

This is a great question. Les Pauls and Strats feature two very different sounds. A typical Stratocaster footprint has the thinner and brighter sound, some would express it as “sharp sounding”.

A Les Paul is all about thicker, darker tones and focuses on mid-range frequencies. But is there a way to make them sound similar?

You can make significant changes by adjusting the amplifier settings, using an EQ pedal, and opting for the neck pickup, but we’ll explain it like this:

Through modifications you can get a Stratocaster to sound very close to a Les Paul, but, because of its inherent construction, a Les Paul will never produce a convincing Stratocaster sound.

Is Gibson or Fender Better?

Again, the question is subjective and almost impossible to answer. The Fender vs. Gibson comparison comes down to personal preference.

Gibson is an older guitar maker with a different history and intense focus on details. On the other hand, Fender makes Stratocasters which are incredibly popular and more affordable.

Also, Telecaster vs. Strat by Fender is another challenging comparison to make.

Les Paul vs Stratocaster: A Breakdown

We’ve covered the main questions about these two brilliant instruments, but we have to touch on several other specific categories.

This will give us further insight into the Les Paul and Stratocaster legacies and what they represent to guitar communities.

The History

The Gibson company was founded in 1894 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and is undoubtedly one of the most well-known guitar manufacturers in the world.

When they started making electric guitars in the 1950s, and their best-known models were the Les Paul and SG, along with the Flying V, Explorer and Moderne though with limited success.

To this day, every “authentic” Gibson guitar is made in the US in one of the Nashville or Montana factories.

The first Fender guitar, Telecaster (originally Broadcaster), was introduced in 1950, and the Stratocaster came a mere four years later in 1954.

They were both designed by Leo Fender in California as marketing products used to support his amplifier business.

Today, these practical, every-day-working-man guitars are synonymous with professional guitarists.

Musical Styles

If you know what you’re doing, you can play any musical style with any guitar – talent is truly in the hands of the player.

However, due to the style, tone, and general comfort, Les Paul and Stratocaster are divided based on musical styles.

While a Strat can be used in any genre, it’s considered one of the best blues guitars ever. The low levels of gain make it suitable for country, pop and R’n’B music.

With Les Paul guitars, it’s all about the hands that play it. It’s original inception was to be an affordable electric guitar for jazz musicians.

Therefor of course it can be an excellent jazz guitar, but it found incredible popularity among, blues, rock and heavy metal musicians too.

Price Range

A Gibson Les Paul guitar is gorgeous, sturdy, durable – and expensive. No doubt that it’s a fantastic investment that can turn into an heirloom.

But it might not be the best option for a budget-minded person in need of a new guitar. Even the cheapest Les Paul is over $1,000. For that money, you can buy a reasonably high-end Stratocaster.

Ultimately, it’s about what you’re looking for and what will work for you. Besides, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard is much cheaper and shares incredibly similar features.

Les Paul vs. Stratocaster Pros and Cons

By Gibson

By Fender

Les Paul vs. Stratocaster: Which Guitar Is Better for You?

If you don’t know anything about guitars, it’d be nearly impossible to choose between the Les Paul and the Stratocaster.

You would probably be inclined to make a decision based on looks.

The lack of contours and the weight of a Les Paul would make it an automatic “no” for some. However, others will appreciate those same features.

The playability factor is essential but shouldn’t be the defining factor.

You can learn how to play either of these guitars as long as you dedicate time and effort.

However, perhaps the better way to assess the better option is to focus on the preferred music style and pickup options.

The post Les Paul vs Stratocaster (What We Love, And Hate) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack

Overall Rating: 4.4/5

We hope you find this article helpful, informative and unbiased. By using links on this page we may receive compensation at no extra cost. If you do use them, thank you so much!

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review: A Beginner Version Of The Beloved Les Paul

There are arguably no electric guitars more famous, influential, or beloved than the classic Gibson Les Paul.

From Jimmy Page to Slash, numerous icons of the guitar world have chosen this single cut model above others.

Likewise, thousands of amateur and student players have entrusted Epiphone to create this same guitar model for their needs.

This Epiphone Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is no different – specifically their Les Paul Special-II model which sits at the core; all the accessories and extras needed to get you playing guitar fast.

Overview of an Affordable Les Paul Guitar Package

Epiphone, a branch of Gibson that specializes in affordable models has long had a great reputation amongst guitarists.

Many players from the past 30 years started out on guitars from packages just like this.

In fact, this Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is likely one of their top selling products thanks to the affordable price tag and one-stop-shop deal.

Even for more experienced players who may own other guitars, this all inclusive package holds value.

Who Get’s the Most Out of It?

As with most guitar packages, this Epiphone LP offering is best suited for beginners and students. The combination of affordability and value is often too good to pass up.

This Epiphone Player package is very attractive for a few key reasons.

First off, it’s a classic guitar design and sound that many students will find their idols playing on stage or in the studio.

Next, the inclusion of the amp, cables, and other extras make it so truly easy to get home and play in minutes.

No comparison shopping for extras and accessories, just open the box and go. Furthermore, the smaller scale length of these Gibson-style instruments can be easier for some players to learn on.

What Comes in the Box?

So we’ve talked about how great it is that this guitar package comes with everything you need, but what exactly does it come with?

Each pack contains a brand new Epiphone Les Paul Special II and padded gig bag for it.

A 10-watt Epiphone amplifier is included as well with all necessary cables so that you’re ready to plug and play.

Other great extras include a strap for your new Les Paul, guitar picks, and a very hand clip on tuner.

While these are less essential than the amp and power cable, they will make your life easier.

These items specifically are things a less educated beginner or student may have trouble finding.

Features & Specs

There are several noteworthy features that make this Les Paul beginner-friendly. The flat top, thin body design makes it much less heavy than the typical Les Paul.

The Alder wood body construction, as opposed to Mahogany, further lightens the load.

The two humbucking pickups, a 700T in the bridge and 650R at the neck, also provide a more high octane sound than single coils found on competitors like Squier Stratocasters and Telecasters.

Plus, these dual coil pickups are far less noisy, meaning you won’t have as much buzz or hum coming out of your amplifier.

The 24.75” scale length also provides for a smaller neck, with less space in between frets. Compare this to the 25.5” scale length of most Fender or Ibanez guitars

Lastly, two finishes are available: a beautiful vintage sunburst or ebony finish gives this Epiphone Les Paul a classic, gig ready look.

Highlights

• High output humbucking pickups
• Simplified controls with volume, tone, and 3-way switch
• Comfortable Alder body
• Beautiful vintage sunburst finish
• Shorter scale length neck

How To Get The Most Out Of Your New Epiphone Pack

The beauty of the Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package is that it’s 100% ready to go out of the box.

Clip on your tuner and tune the guitar, throw the strap on, and plug in. The flat top construction and Alder body also make it lighter and more comfortable than most classic Les Paul models.

Check out this awesome demo of the Les Paul Special-II, the guitar featured in this package!

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review: Key Points

Alternative Instruments for Comparison

Final Thoughts On A Timeless Guitar

If your love of classic rock music inspired you to pick up the guitar, it’s hard to not covet a Les Paul. Epiphone’s Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is designed to scratch that Gibson itch while still outfitting you with all the essentials.

The smaller scale length of the neck may make it more comfortable to inexperienced hands. On the other hand, affordable Les Paul’s are well known to have some tuning instability issues.

A quick tune up from a tech can help unlock the monster tones locked inside this classic body design.

Either way, the Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player pack is an excellent choice for new guitarists determined to play an LP.

Check Today’s Epiphone Player Pack Price! >>

The post Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review (An Easy Start On A Budget) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

7 Best Electric Guitars for Kids Compared:

Guitar	Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Editor’s Pick! Squier Stratocaster Pack Three pickup configuration for tone simplicity		(4.9)	$$
#2 Best Budget Model Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X 22.5” scale length – ideal for small hands		(4.5)	$
#3 Best Premium Pack Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS pickup configuration for playing diversity		(4.6)	$$$
#4 Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Comes with a clip-on tuner		(3.9)	$$$
#5 Loog Pro Three-string simplicity		(3.6)	$$
#6 Ibanez Gio GRX70QA HSH pickup configuration for top genre versatility		(4.8)	$$
#7 Squier Bullet Mustang Incredibly resilient and stable		(4.1)	$$

We hope you find this article helpful, informative and unbiased. Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

There are more benefits to playing the guitar other than simply mastering an instrument. Some are social, while others revolve around the discipline of technical achievement.

This is what makes the guitar an excellent gift for your kid.

Of course, the price ballpark here isn’t thousands of dollars, meaning that you’re looking for the best electric guitar for kids, not adults.

However, bear in mind that most of the models on our list aren’t “kids’ guitars;” they’re simply guitars that are better suited for kids and beginners.

Top Electric Guitars for Kids Reviewed

1. Squier Stratocaster Pack

A classic-looking Stratocaster beginner’s pack from Squier.

A Traditional Stratocaster Pack

The typical Fender-built Stratocaster guitar has a SSS (three single coil) pickup configuration, which is fantastic for getting funky tones.

This Stratocaster Pack from Squier replicates its parent Fender guitar’s famous look, feel, and tone.

An affordable package that includes a kid’s electric guitar and amp, a gig bag, cable, picks, and some basic tools you need for this guitar’s setup.

Highlights

The Fender Frontman 10G amp that’s included here offers a range of brilliant crunch tones.

There’s a quick button that toggles between clean and crunch that allows your kid to adjust the gain level.

This is a fantastic for letting your child learn about the dynamics of electric guitar playing.

The guitar comes equipped with the typical tremolo bridge that will introduce your kid to the dynamic world of the whammy bar.

Squier Stratocaster Pack Features

• Lightweight body made of poplar is perfect for kids, plus it brings out a superb tone
• Custom-voiced overdrive from the Fender 10G amp
• Synchronized Tremolo bridge for whammy style of playing
• Included strap, picks, gig bag, cable, and setup tools
• Maple neck and rosewood fretboard for tonal stability

A Variety of Features at a Low Price

For a remarkably low price, you get a cool-looking beginner’s Squier Stratocaster, a solid amp, and various other features.

The SSS pickup configuration allows your kid to get introduced to the world of electric guitar gradually.

This is a truly classic beginner guitar package that offers a decent starter instrument with various simple tonal properties.

No Tuner

A clip-on tuner would be a nice addition to the package. It’s important that kids learn about guitar tuning from the get-go.

Fortunately, there are various smartphone tuner apps available out there.

Squier Strat Pack in Review

View the Latest Squier Stratocaster Packs from Fender >>

2. Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X

A serious-looking rock/metal guitar for kids from Jackson.

A Future Metalhead’s Ax

Jackson is a popular name, especially in heavier music. And the JS1X is as cheap as a Jackson model gets.

Although this guitar is aimed at the young future metalheads, don’t be surprised if you end up liking it yourself.

The default color of this model is Gloss Black, but Bright Blue, Neon Orange, and Ferrari Red are options that may appeal more to your kids.

Potent Humbuckers and No Whammy

You can use this guitar for various genres, but it’s primarily aimed at heavier music styles.

The two high-output Jackson humbucker pickups work wonders for heavily distorted sounds.

It comes with a fixed bridge, so your kid won’t be able to do any whammy bar tricks that compromise tuning – simplicity is definitely desired here.

Play this guitar through a decent amp, and you’ll be surprised at how good it sounds.

Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X Features

• Poplar body with a maple top for tonal balance
• 5” scale is ideal for small hands
• Fixed bridge for tuning stability and overall setup simplicity
• Four color options to appeal to everyone’s taste
• Graphite reinforcement truss rods for even more stability

Small Hands Love It

Normally, Jackson guitars feature a 25.5” scale used on many instruments such as Fender Guitars.

Nevertheless, a regular scale length might not be ideal for the young ones. The JS1X has a 22.5” scale, which is just perfect for small hands.

This shorter scale length makes the strings a little more flexible and easier on fresh fingers.

Furthermore, we’re talking about a relatively cheap, straightforward guitar that’s more than decent enough for talent shows and similar children’s performances.

Large Hands Do Not Love It

As time passes, your kid’s going to grow past the unusually short 22.5” scale. This model will last them a few years, but they’ll probably grow out of it. Fortunately, the price is perfectly fitting.

Jackson Dinky Minion in Review

3. Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster

Another Squier Stratocaster offering – but with a lot more oomph!

Similar to the previous Strat Pack, this is a quick-start guitar beginner’s pack from Fender’s daughter company, Squier.

Unpack, Plug In, and Play

The familiar Stratocaster look is known far and wide across the world. Many of the greats adore this model.

The Affinity Series Stratocaster is a great choice with a range of diversity. Inside the package, you get a strap, cable, gig bag, picks, and the Fender Frontman 15G amp.

In other words, your kid gets everything they need to get started right away.

Comfort and Diversity

Comfort is hugely important when it comes to beginner guitars. We’re talking about a complex and a fairly hard instrument to play here.

After all, making it easy for your kid to get started with it is the right way to go.

Thanks to the crisp maple neck and the fretboard made out of laurel hardwood, the player gets a ton of smoothness and ease of playing.

Diversity is another cool thing about the Affinity Series. With the HSS (humbucker, single, single) pickup configuration, you get to rock out with heavier music.

The super versatile pickup combination also lets you have fun with jazz, funk, and any other style you, or should we say, your kid, prefers.

Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Features

• Poplar body brings rock-solid tone to the table
• HSS pickup configuration for maximum playing diversity
• 5-way blade selector for tone shaping variety
• A bunch of features inside the package to get you started
• Vintage-style tremolo

Undeniable Comfort

Expect unexpected comfort from this model. In fact, you might feel sort of jealous that you didn’t get the chance to own this guitar as a kid yourself.

With most guitar purchases, you get a guitar, and then you have to go out of your way and find various other features necessary to get your kid started.

With the Affinity Series, you get everything you need, including an upgrade, in a single package.

Pricey

Although the price point is low compared to more professional-level guitars, the Affinity Series is the most expensive option.

Nevertheless, when put against other products on this list. It does bring a lot of quality to the table.

Affinity Strat Pack in Review

View the Latest Affinty Series Models >>

4. Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack

Beginner’s pack from Gibson’s daughter company, Epiphone.

The Good Old Les Paul

Back in the day, there were two claimants to the throne of the best guitar in the world: Les Paul and Stratocaster.

The Les Paul model remains very recognizable. This from Epiphone also comes with a 10-watt amp, gig bag, cable, strap, picks, and a clip-on tuner.

A Simple Tuner Means a Lot

Unlike strat-style guitars, Les Pauls are more about that fat, rock/metal sound. This is why this Epiphone features two humbuckers in its pickup configuration.

The neck build is fairly standard – maple with a rosewood fretboard. This gives it a solid, balanced tone.

Also available in a Vintage Sunburst finish, the guitar itself is surprisingly good for the price, it’s also about all the additional things you get inside the package.

It may not seem like much, but the included clip-on tuner is incredibly useful for your kid’s ear development.

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Features

• Every piece of equipment your kid needs to start playing immediately
• 10-watt amp with clean and crunch settings
• Solidbody build – among the most popular design options
• Maple neck with rosewood fretboard
• One volume knob, one tone knob, and a 3-position switch – simplicity is king

HH Simplicity

If your kid is into rock-style music, the double humbucker setup is the best pickup configuration for them. This configuration is very straightforward.

The same goes for the included 10-watt amp. You get two channels – clean and crunch – and some basic amp options. Nothing too complicated.

Although it’s not the most affordable kids beginner electric guitar option, it offers everything you need to get started.

Your Kid Might Not Be Into Rock

If your kid’s into heavier music, this is a good place to start. But it can turn out to be less than ideal for a kids’ first guitar.

Epiphone Les Paul Pack in Review

5. Loog Pro

A real beginner’s three-string guitar from Loog, specifically aimed at kids.

A Kid’s Guitar That’s Not a Toy

You can always get a standard guitar and have your kid learn how to play it. But Loog is a manufacturer that’s specifically oriented toward youngsters.

To avoid any off-putting string confusion, this model has only three strings.

The idea here was to make a kid’s guitar that isn’t a toy. Although the string spacing is smaller and the neck is thinner, the feel of it is very much like on a real grown-up guitar.

Simplicity is King

The body here is made out of solid wood, and the maple neck brings out the classic trebly quality.

Control-wise, things are very straightforward – a single volume knob (no tone knob), a single-coil pickup, and an input jack. Simplicity is key when it comes to an absolute newbie guitar.

Loog Pro Features

• Lightweight, stable basswood body for tuning stability and solid resonance
• Low string action for ease of playing while learning
• Three real guitar strings to keep things simple but replicate the feel of a real guitar
• Fantastic sound and excellent intonation from the single-coil pickup
• Maple neck and fretboard for crispy spunkiness

Arguably the Best Kid’s Beginner Solution

Simply put, there isn’t a better way to get used to the feel of a guitar than playing a real guitar made for kids’ hands.

The bridge system is adjustable, which is fantastic for ideal comfort.

This instrument’s price is also appealing, especially when you consider the fact that a regular beginner’s guitar will set you back about the same.

Only Three Strings

Although the three strings feel and work the same as on a regular guitar, we’re still talking about three strings.

Some kids may find the transition from three to the traditional six strings a bit confusing.

Loog Pro in Review

6. Ibanez Gio GRX70QA

An affordable and versatile shredder-style guitar from Ibanez’s Gio line.

Overview

Ibanez’s Gio is a well-known affordable line of electric guitars. The GRX70QA is among the cheaper Gio options, which makes it ideal for kids.

This guitar is far from top-notch, but offers a ton of versatility. Plus, the finish looks simply fantastic.

Highlights

The HSH (humbucker-single-humbucker) pickup configuration makes this Ibanez very versatile.

You can get a very heavy lead tone from the bridge pickup, but the warmth of the neck humbucker for clean tones is not to be understated.

If you like the tonal properties of a single pickup, there is one available in the middle position.

Like most Ibanez guitars, this one puts an emphasis on the neck. It’s very comfortable, and the hand glides across it – amazing playability for the price.

Ibanez Gio GRX70QA Features

• Basswood body for tuning stability and light weight
• Maple neck for crisp, trebly tones
• Purpleheart fretboard works perfectly with the maple neck
• Solid FAT 6 tremolo bridge with a whammy bar
• 3 Powersound pickups

A Breathtakingly Good-Looking Beginner’s Guitar

The Gio GRX70QA from Ibanez definitely doesn’t look like a kids’ model. This is because it wasn’t primarily intended for youths.

Electric guitar practice starts with a comfortable guitar, and the Ibanez Gio GRX70QA is remarkably playable for its price.

Is it only for beginners? No. Is it a recommended electric guitar for beginners? Absolutely. And don’t forget its breathtaking looks.

Pickups Not Perfect

For a beginner, the pickups sound just fine. But given that the build quality of this model is more than decent, you may end up desiring a better pickup set.

The thing is, a set of solid pickups is likely to cost more than the original price of the guitar.

Ibanez Gio in Review

7. Squier Bullet Mustang HH

A cheap HH-configuration guitar from Squier.

An Indie Kid’s Guitar

It’s difficult to imagine the indie, underground, and alternative scenes without the popular Mustang guitar shape.

Well, here it is – a beginner’s Squier guitar with the popular Mustang shape and feel.

Yes, you get only two humbucker pickups, but this only means straightforward playing simplicity.

Your kid will rock out with the bridge pickup and enjoy the deep, resonant tones of the neck humbucker on clean settings.

Solid Workhorse

At 24 inches of scale length, this guitar’s neck is compact and a perfect fit for smaller kids’ hands.

Thanks to the dual humbucker configuration, expect a midrange-oriented tone. This guitar is quite the workhorse – a resilient and stable model.

Considering that kids aren’t exactly careful with their things, this means a lot.

Squier Bullet Mustang HH Features

• This is a no-nonsense, straightforward workhorse guitar
• Lightweight basswood body offers setup stability
• Smaller hands will greatly benefit from the 24” scale length
• Crunchy, hot, rock tone
• Soft laurel fretboard simply feels great

Brilliant Resilience

Kids aren’t careful. They will break things. This affordable guitar is very tough and, although dents and scratches may occur, the playing quality is unlikely to be affected by wear and tear.

The Squire Bullet Mustang is a perfect model for heavier tones. The 24” scale length is a true gift for smaller hands.

There are shorter-scale guitars on this list, but the 24” will prepare your kid for moving on to longer scales down the line.

Too Sturdy?

The sturdy build does come at a price. This guitar might feel a bit too stiff for some. This boils down to personal preference, though.

Squier Bullet Mustang in Review

Best First Electric Guitar For Kids Buyer’s Guide

The guitars that you’ll find on this list all make for great choices for the young ones.

Whether you’re a guitar player yourself or not, you should know what to look for when buying a guitar for your kid. They’ll undoubtedly have no idea where to start themselves.

With this in mind, here’s a buyer’s guide that will help you better understand the world of kids’ guitar playing.

What is the Best Age to Start Learning Guitar?

Ask any guitar player about the perfect age to get into guitar playing, and they’ll say “as soon as possible.”

Unlike the piano, for example, guitar playing does involve brute force, to an extent (fretting notes is not easy for beginners).

Buy your kid a guitar too soon, and they might end up being put off by this struggle.

Many top-of-the-line guitar players first picked up their instrument of choice in their teenage years. So, the age of 13 is optimal. It all boils down to knowing your kid, though.

Some will benefit from starting out as early as age seven, while others won’t pick up the instrument until they’re 17.

In any case, pushing your kid into guitar playing is not the way to go. Even if you get them a guitar early on, they might end up picking it up later in life.

What Guitar Should I Buy for a Beginner Child?

If you are a guitar player yourself, you probably have a small old amp lying around somewhere.

In this case, you don’t need to get them a beginner guitar package with an included amp and other guitar essentials.

If you don’t have any guitar-related equipment at home though, focus on getting them the best electric guitar starter kit that you think will fit them.

Get the best electric guitar starter kit that fits them, and your budget.

You can get them a guitar separately and buy them a cheap amp, but this will set you back quite a bit more.

The starter kits are usually the best idea; the included equipment is more than decent enough for young beginners.

Are Electric Guitars Worth It?

We tend to underestimate the importance of having a hobby. What’s great about music is that it can grow into a passion, leading to a profession that your child will love and cherish.

However, even if it forever remains a hobby, the value that playing the electric guitar brings to the table is immense.

In fact, even if they completely drop the instrument after a few years, the guitar can do wonders for your child’s motor development.

As opposed to acoustic guitars, electric guitars require much less brute force for playing. Starting with one of the mentioned is usually preferable to getting an acoustic model.

Therefor, yes, buying an electric guitar for your kid is definitely worth it, especially considering that the outlined models are very cheap.

How Big is a Junior Guitar?

Junior guitars tend to be a quarter, a half, or three quarters of the regular guitar size.

Most guitars on this list aren’t considered “junior” guitars, although some feature shorter scale lengths.

This is because we think that starting out with a normal-sized guitar is generally preferable – let your kid grow into it instead of out of it.

We have included the Loog Pro model, which is much more compact than the other models on the list and features three strings.

If you want your kid to start out with a non-adult model, why not introduce them to fewer strings as well, to avoid confusion.

Still, we think that your kid will have an easier time adjusting to the world of guitars if they have an instrument that has realistic proportions.

Can You Make a Cheap Electric Guitar Sound Good?

Go ahead and ask any guitarist out there if this is possible. In all likelihood, they will answer with a “yes.”

While acoustic guitars produce their sound, well, acoustically, electric guitars rely on electronics to reproduce sound.

Naturally, the wood quality, the overall build, the pickups, and other components each have a role here.

Even the cheapest electric guitar can sound good with a good setup, and some practice.

However, as long as you have a good amp, you can make pretty much any guitar sound at least decent.

In fact, learning how to set the tone on a cheap guitar will help develop your ear for this.

Additionally, not only can you make a cheap guitar sound good, but it’s even preferable to starting off with an expensive model. For your kids, $300 is the recommended ceiling.

How Much Does a Good Quality Electric Guitar Cost?

Most guitarists would answer, “depends.” And it truly does depend on many factors.

But, as a rule of thumb, the $1,000 ballpark is a reasonably certain range for a high quality electric guitar. With most products, you’re looking for quality.

Do not look at quality guitars when browsing the models for your kid. We don’t just say this for the sake of your budget, but for your kid’s guitar learning process, as explained above.

In reality, you can find production model and boutique guitars that go as far up as $3,000 or much more.

And then, you’ll see a famous musician rocking a $600 workhorse on the stage. There is absolutely no need to go overboard with your kid’s first model.

What is the Best Electric Guitar for Beginners?

The best electric guitar for a beginner is the one they like to observe while it’s played.

In truth, there is no way to tell whether your kid will find a perfect match on their own.

Taking them to the guitar store and having an employee play each model for your kid is the best way to have them choose their first instrument.

See what they like the most – unless you really want them to go with a junior-style guitar. In that case, we recommend the above-mentioned Loog Pro.

Who Wins Top Seat For The Best Electric Guitar For Kids?

Although we’ve reviewed many quality guitars, we’re going to have to go with a guitar-amp-essentials pack here.

The Squier Stratocaster Pack offers the most comprehensive set of extra features. The triple pickup combo is perfect for a beginner, and the included amp will help your kid learn how to dial in their tone.

With the Squier Stratocaster Pack, your kid has a chance to start learning electric guitar basics, from its playing aspects to the technicalities and tone.

This is why we think that the Squier Stratocaster Pack is the best electric guitar for kids.

EDITOR’S PICK

Squier Stratocaster Pack!

What Do Squier Stratocaster Pack Owners Think? >>

The post Best Electric Guitar for Kids (7 Exceptional Instruments) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack Review: Is This The Right Electric Guitar For You?

The Squier Affinity Stratocaster Package at a glance:

Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack by Fender 

Overview of an Affordable Strat Package Designed to Quickly Get You Playing

While the Stratocaster was actually released after the Telecaster model, it is arguably Fender’s most beloved and well known guitar.

Used by such legends as Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, and Buddy Guy, almost every guitarist has played a Strat at some point. Squier, Fender’s more affordable guitar line, introduces this convenient and versatile model to the marketplace.

The Affinity Stratocaster Package featured here pairs a higher output humbucker with the more mellow Strat single coils.

This lets students from many musical disciplines find the right sound and feel at home on the Affinity Stratocaster.

The Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Package From Fender

While the Stratocaster may be most known for the historical legends that played it, it is still employed by many today.

Modern heroes such as John Frusciante, Melanie Faye, or John Mayer have led a new wave of students to wield a Strat.

This Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Package is designed to get you playing quickly, without multiple purchases or trips to a guitar store.

The affordable price tag certainly makes it appealing to many, but the guitar included is no budget minded slouch.

Who Is The Squier by Fender Affinity Stratocaster Designed For?

Well, as the full name suggests, this package is meant to make beginner’s and student’s lives much easier.

Many students will find themselves wishing for a Strat after watching a David Gilmour or Jimi Hendrix solo anyways, making this an appealing purchase.

The real value though lies in the inclusion of awesome extras and accessories. Otherwise, the C-shaped neck and body contour make it a comfortable guitar to learn on for players of all sizes and shapes.

What’s Included In The Box?

Inside the Squier by Fender Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Package you’ll find many of the same accessories of its competitors.

One thing you won’t find anywhere else is the free 3-month subscription to Fender Play that comes in this Squier bundle. Fender Play is Fender’s own guitar lesson subscription site.

This provides valuable resources to many students who will buy this guitar to begin their six string journey.

A 15-watt Fender Frontman amp, a padded gig bag, and instrument cable help you get playing right out of the box.

Lastly, a guitar strap and extra picks are thrown in just to make this offer even better.

Squier Affinity Strat Features & Specs

The Squier Affinity Stratocaster featured in this package distills down many of Fender’s finest features. The C-shaped neck is comfortable, and a common design featured on many Fender guitars you may play throughout your career.

The Poplar wood body and Fender-designed belly cut make it a lightweight and form fitting guitar to play sitting or standing. The real highlight though has to be the HSS pickup configuration.

The bridge humbucker is capable of providing that big, hard rock sound that many would expect from a Les Paul. Switch the 5-way selector around, and you can quickly go to blues, pop, funk, and more atmospheric sounds with ease.

There’s no coincidence that this guitar design is used by a wide variety of players and genres. The 25.5” scale length is larger than the 24.75” or 25” scale length on some competitors guitars, but shouldn’t discourage you from picking one up.

Affinity Strat Highlights

• Versatile humbucking and single coil pickups
• Comfortable, C-shaped neck
• Beautiful finish options
• Vintage style tremolo arm
• Lightweight construction

How To Use Your New Squier Affinity Stratocaster

Purchasing this Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Package makes playing electric guitar very accessible.

You can immediately plug in and play right out of the box thanks to the included amp and cable.

Check out this helpful demo below and see how you can get the best sounds possible out of your new Strat!

Affinity Pros and Cons

Squier Affinity Strat Review

What Do Squier Affinity Stratocaster Owners Think? >>

Don’t Forget To Comparison Shop!

Another popular take on the Strat design, the Yamaha Gigmaker Electric Electric Guitar Pack features their Pacifica model. This is another humbucker and single coil-style guitar, or HSS as we call it.

Read our complete review here.

With excellent versatility and an equally affordable price tag, the Pacifica has quickly become another favorite of beginners.

While this package doesn’t include a gig bag like the others do, it’s still a worthy contender in the beginner guitar package world!

Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack with...

AFFINITY SERIES STRATOCASTER HSS PACK (371824009)

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack, Vintage Sunburst

If you were inspired to pick up the guitar because of Jimmy Page instead of Jimi Hendrix, a Les Paul may be for you.

The Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package provides many of the same necessary accessories as this Squier package at a cheaper price.

Swap out the free Fender Play subscription for a convenient clip-on tuner, and you’re off to the races. This dual humbucker guitar may be a bit less versatile sonically however.

The Les Paul’s classic looks, design, and vintage finish give it plenty of appeal.

Squier’s Affinity Strat Package By Fender Is Popular For A Reason…

Much like the aforementioned Les Paul, the Stratocaster design and features are deeply embedded in guitar culture. There may not be a worst place to start your guitar journey than this, and the versatile pickup options don’t hurt either.

The free subscription to Fender Play really should not be overlooked, as that can be a valuable way to stay motivated or speed up your progression.

Overall the Squier Affinity Stratocaster Package may be a bit more expensive than the competitors.

Don’t let that dissuade you from picking one up though, the Squier Affinity Strat and Fender reputation are held in high regard for good reason!

What are Squier Affinity Strat Players Saying? >>

The post Squier Affinity Stratocaster Review [Beginner Pack by Fender] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Five Electric Guitars That Offer the Best Value

Top 5 electric guitars for the money at glance:

Product	Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Overall Best Value Pacifica Series PAC12 Electric Guitar			$$
#2 Best Budget Model Epiphone Les Paul SPECIAL-II Electric Guitar			$$
#3 Most Versatile Jackson JS22 Dinky Eelctric Guitar			$$
#4 Fastest Neck C-1 SGR by Schecter Electric Guitar			$$
#5 Best Classic Features Epiphone Les Paul-100 Electric Guitar			$$$

Until you know for sure that guitar is something you want to stick with and want to keep on playing, you want to make sure your money invested goes as far as possible. Luckily, there are many great beginner electric guitars on the market that won’t break the bank.

Below, we have a list of five of the best low priced electric guitars that are definitely worth looking into.

In Review: The Top 5 Electric Guitars for the Money

1. Best Electric Guitar for the Money: Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Electric Guitar

Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Electric Guitar

If like most of us, you want to get the best value for your money, it’s essential to do your research such as that which went into this article.

The smooth design of the Yamaha PAC12 includes one of the sleekest external designs on the market. All Pacifica models have a similar design – meaning while the PAC12 is the lower-end model on the market, it benefits from a similar design to some of the more expensive models.

Yamaha’s Pacifica PAC12 is a popular choice for beginner players due to its low price and robust functionality. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door.

This guitar offers quality performance despite being less than $200, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a similar guitar in with the same performance at this price point. This model provides much more sound power and range than other guitars in its market segment.

Considering this model remains a popular stalwart in the industry after almost 30 years, you can trust the Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 is built to last.

Key Features

• Professional Quality at an Entry-Level Price
• Smooth Design
• Variations to choose from
• Plenty of power and internal master controls
• Factory Warranty Included
• Made under strict quality controls during the manufacturing process

Pros and Cons

Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Electric Guitar Review

What Do Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Owners Think?

For more details, read our complete comprehensive Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 review here.

2. Best Budget Model: Epiphone Les Paul SPECIAL-II

Epiphone Les Paul Special-II Electric Guitar

If you’re a fan of electric guitars, there’s a high chance you’ve heard of a Les Paul – it’s one of the world’s most popular designs. The Les Paul SPECIAL-II is Epiphone’s most basic offering, but being one of the most affordable electric guitars on the market, it also has plenty to offer.

Choosing the right guitar is a complicated process that should entail plenty of research. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Epiphone Les Paul SPECIAL-II with an aim to provide a bit of that research for you.

Epiphone is one of the world’s most notable guitar manufacturers. While they originated in Turkey in the 1800s, the current company, Gibson, is best-known as one of America’s most famous musical institutions. The firm is currently based in Nashville, Tennessee.

This particular Epiphone guitar model is also featured as a package in our Best Guitars for Beginners Guide. For a more detailed look at the instrument on it’s own,, you can read our full review here.

Read What Epiphone Les Paul Special-II Users are Saying

Key Features

• Classic Les Paul design
• Electronics that perform
• Warranty that lasts
• One of your best sounding options under $200.
• Built from basswood and a solid option in general.

Pros and Cons

Epiphone Les Paul SPECIAL-II Review

Are Epiphone Les Paul Special-II Owners Happy? >>

Interested in more info? Check out our in-depth Epiphone Les Paul II review here.

3. Most Versatility: Jackson JS22 Dinky

Jackson JS22 Dinky Electric Guitar

Do you want a solid body guitar that is attractive, plays well, and won’t cost you an arm and a leg? If so, look no further than the Jackson JS22 Dinky, with its solid basswood body made with a beautiful finish.

This right-handed guitar from Jackson has a one-piece neck made of solid maple, and it also has graphic reinforcement on the joint. The bolt-on scale length is 25.5 inches, and there is a truss rod. This affordable guitar looks great, and it sounds awesome when you play it through an amp.

If you love the classic Jackson tone, you will enjoy playing the JS22 Dinky. It has all of the things that musicians love about Jackson guitars, but it comes at an affordable price so anyone can have their own awesome Jackson guitar.

Key Features

• This guitar has many upgraded features, including an arched top, high-output ceramic pickups, a graphite-reinforced maple neck, bound fingerboard and headstock, and attractive black hardware, so you get a really great looking guitar
• The bound rosewood fingerboard has 24 jumbo frets. This makes this guitar really stand out from other beginner, low-end guitars that do not have the full fretboard. You can go a long way on this guitar, and it’s going to grow with you
• Enjoy the dual, high-output Jackson humbucking pickups that have ceramic magnets, along with three-way blade switching. There is also a synchronized fulcrum tremolo bridge, as well as die-cast tuners

Pros and Cons

Jackson JS22 Dinky Review

Read What Jackson JS22 Customers are Saying >>

Need more details? Read our comprehensive Jackson JS22 Dinky review here.

4. Fastets Neck: C-1 SGR by Schecter

Schecter C-1 SGR Electric Guitar

Let’s start by discussing the C-1 SGR from Schecter. This is an attractive, uniquely shaped beginner guitar that plays as great as it looks. It has one very unique feature in that it has 24 frets, something that you aren’t going to find in a lot of beginner electric guitars.

Priced very affordably, this SGR guitar from Schecter is an ideal inexpensive instrument you can definitely grow with. The pickups produce clean balanced tones that can easily be colored with a variety of effects.

If you are looking for a cheap guitar that has a decent sound quality, this is one of the models you need to seriously consider. It may be cost-effective, but there really is nothing cheap about this guitar. It looks and plays awesome.

Click Here to Read the Latest C-1 SGR Reviews >>

Key Features

• This electric guitar has a unique looking fretboard. While the pearloid dots aren’t unique to this guitar, they really do stand out against the rosewood fretboard, and there is a unique filigree pattern on the 12^th fret
• The shape of the C-1 SGR is interesting and attractive. It has a smooth, arched top that makes this guitar very comfortable to play, whether you are sitting or standing. This also makes it easy to use both the controls and the fretboard
• The hardware on this guitar is made from polished, black chrome, something else that sets it apart from other entry level guitars that just have regular or polished chrome in silver tone. This is just one more feature that gives this guitar its unique appearance

Pros and Cons

Schecter C-1 SGR Review

What are Schecter C-1 SGR Players Saying? >>

Read our complete expert Schecter C-1 review here

5. Best Classic Features: Epiphone Les Paul-100 Electric Guitar

Epiphone Les Paul 100 Electric Guitar

A lot of musicians enjoy playing on Epiphone guitars, and for some very good reasons. For starters, even the low-end models are fun to play on, and they look and sound terrific. Take the Epiphone Les Paul-100 electric guitar for instance.

This guitar has a mahogany body with a maple top and a rosewood fretboard, and it comes in the traditional sunburst finish. It has all of the features we love about a Les Paul, but comes at a fraction of the price.

One of the things we love about this guitar is the body, because it is slightly slimmer than LP Studio or Standard guitars. It is more lightweight than other models, making it easier to play while standing for extended periods of time.

Key Features

• This guitar has a classic LP tone, thanks to the 700T and 650R open coil, Humbucker pickups. Each pickup has its own separate volume and tone controls, so you can control each one individually to get the sound you really want
• Some of the standard features of all Epiphone guitars, including the Les Paul-100, include 500 Ohms potentiometers, as well as the Epiphone heavy-duty, three-way pickup selector toggle switch and non-rotating heavy duty output jack
• This guitar is going to tune easily, and stay in tune, thanks to the Epiphone Lock-Tone locking Tune-o-Matic bridge. There is also a stop-bar tailpiece that is going to give you more sustain, along with attractive chrome hardware

Pros and Cons

Epiphone Les Paul-100 Electric Guitar Review

What Do Epiphone Les Paul 100 Players Think? >>

For more info, you may be interested in our complete Epiphone Les Paul 100 review.

Our Best Value for the Money Guitars Finalists:

Best Electric Guitar Value

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 Electric Guitar...

Best Budget Model

Epiphone Les Paul Special II, Vintage Sunburst

Most Versatile Guitar

C-1 SGR by Schecter Beginner Electric Guitar...

Conclusion – Which Electric Guitar is the Best Deal?

As you can plainly see, you don’t have to go out and spend hundreds of dollars for a decent beginner electric guitar. This is particularly good when you have children who want to learn, but you aren’t sure if they’re actually going to stick with it.

Any of these guitars will be a great choice for the beginner who wants a quality guitar to learn on, and they come from some of the most trusted guitar manufacturers in the world.

All told, considering fit, finish, cosmetics, playability, and bundled accessories, we’d have to say the overall winner in this shootout is the Yamaha Pacifica PAC12. Simply put, it represent the overall best electric guitar for the money.

EDITOR’S PICK

Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Electric Guitar

Check Yamaha Pacifica Availability! >>

Remember the Guitar Accessories!

OnStage XCG4 Black Tripod Guitar Stand, Single

Snark SN5X Clip-On Tuner for Guitar, Bass & Violin...

Pick Punch - The Original Guitar Pick Punch SAME...

D'Addario Accessories Pro-Winder Guitar String...

The post Best Electric Guitar For The Money [Reviews & Buying Guide] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Squier by Fender Standard Stratocaster Review – What You Need To Know Before Buying

The Squire Standard Strat at a Glance:

Squier Standard Stratocaster

How would you like to be able to enjoy playing on a Fender Stratocaster, without having to spend over a grand to get one? Just because it isn’t a regular Strat, don’t dismiss the Squier until you have had a chance to check it out.

Sure, it’s not a true American-made Strat, but it is a Strat none the less, and it’s manufactured by Fender.

Fender is an international manufacturer that leverages production facilities around the globe. Because of this diversity, you can find incredible value in certain products – is the Squier Standard Strat one of those?

The fact is Squiers are produced overseas with less expensive parts, and those savings are passed on to you, the lucky customer.

Let’s take an in-depth look at the Squier by Fender Standard Stratocaster electric guitar. It may be a less expensive version of the original Stratocaster, but still a quality guitar.

Overview – Great for beginners

Everyone who is just starting out playing the guitar has dreams of becoming great. Unfortunately, some people make the mistake of going out and buying an expensive guitar, and then they end up barely using it.

If you’re a beginner, it is best to stick with something that can offer a quality sound and great playability, and something that’s budget friendly.

That’s exactly what you get when you buy a Squier Stratocaster. Similar in price point to it’s cousin, the Squier Deluxe Stratocaster, it looks and feels just like the real thing, and it essentially is a Strat for all intents and purposes. It just costs a whole lot less, but it plays just as well.

Another thing that makes this a terrific beginner guitar is the fact that it has a low action (the height of the strings from the neck).

The lower the action, the closer the strings are to the neck, and the easier it is to press down and actually play notes instead of making sounds that sort of sound like notes, but just aren’t quite there.

When one is first starting out this is good news. Beginner guitar players can find it pretty difficult to press down on the strings really hard until they’ve built up calluses on their fingertips. With this guitar, there will be less pain, but lots of gain.

Features of the Squier Standard Strat

• This guitar not only plays well, it looks great too. The attractive sunburst pattern has an antique-like finish, with a rosewood fingerboard. It is also available in other colors, including Candy Apple Red, as well as black and chrome
• The maple neck has a 9.5-inch radius, and the rosewood fingerboard has 22 medium jumbo frets that make it easy to play without getting cramped hands, both because the frets are large, and the neck is big enough, but not too big, even for smaller hands
• The body is made from Agathis wood, which is a less expensive alternative to mahogany. It looks just as nice, and it still offers a quality sound. It has a high gloss finish, thanks to the polyurethane gloss
• This guitar has a synchronous twin-pivot tremolo bridge, along with a master control volume knob, two tone controls, and a five-position pickup selector switch, so no matter what style you are playing, you can get the sound you want

Pros and Cons

Squier Standard Stratocaster Electric Guitar Review

What are Squier Standard Stratocaster Players Saying? >>

Compare Featured Electric Guitars:

Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT HSS Electric...

Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster Electric...

Squier by Fender 303010500 Classic Vibe 60's...

Final Thoughts – Is the Squier Standard Strat Worth Your Investment?

If you have always dreamed of owning a Fender Stratocaster, but you are just a beginner on a small budget, you really do need to check out the line of Squier guitars, including the Squier Standard Strat.

There are many other versions from other manufacturers, but they don’t have the genuine Fender parts that make it a real Fender guitar. This is your chance to own a really cool guitar that sounds awesome, without having to spend a lot of money.

Check Squire Standard Strat Availability! >>

Manufacturer Info:

Website: http://www.squierguitars.com/

About: Fender acquired U.S. guitar string manufacturer the V.C. Squier Company in 1965; by 1982 the Squier name had resurfaced as a low-cost “value brand” alternative initially manufactured and distributed in the Japanese domestic market and soon offered to Europe, North America and the rest of the world.

The post Squier Standard Stratocaster Review [Electric Guitar by Fender] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Find the Best Electric Guitar to Start With!

Great Beginner Electric Guitars at a Glance:

Rank	Feature Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Best Beginner Guitar Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack		(4.7)	$$$
#2 Best Budget Package LyxPro Electric Guitar Complete Beginner Starter kit		(4.4)	$$
#3 Best for Hard Rock Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package		(4.4)	$$$
#4 Best Vintage Starter Pack Maestro by Gibson Electric Guitar Starter Package		(3.9)	$$
#5 Best Standalone Instrument Ibanez GRX70 Electric Guitar		(4.4)	$$$

Purchasing your very first electric guitar, either for yourself or for your child, can be very exciting. It can also get a little confusing if you’re not familiar with some of the terminologies, or simply don’t know what to look for.

Luckily for you, seeking out the best electric guitar for beginners has resulted in a few good choices available in today’s market, coming in a variety of prices to fit various budgets.

In Review: The Top 5 Electric Guitars for Beginners

1. Overall Best Beginner Guitar: Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack

Best balance of build quality, playability, sound versatility and reputation.

AFFINITY SERIES STRATOCASTER HSS PACK (371824009)

You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money to have the look and feel of a Fender Stratocaster. In fact, you can get a low-end version of this guitar, and it is made by Fender, so you know it is going to be a quality instrument, even if it is inexpensive.

The Fender Squier was introduced to the world in 1982, and is mainly produced overseas, at factories that are mainly located in China and other parts of Asia. They are able to manufacture these guitars with cost-efficient materials, and bring the savings to you.

This is a bundle package, so not only do you get the Squier Affinity guitar, you also get everything needed, including virtual lessons, to jump right in and start playing. All the student needs to do is tune it up and it is ready to play, right out of the box.

Read What Squier Starter Strat Pack Customers are Saying >>

Key Features

• This bundle package comes with the Squier electric guitar, and all of the necessary accessories. The bundle includes the guitar, a 15G practice amp, instrument cable, shoulder strap, and extra guitar picks
• This guitar has a lightweight body making it a great choice. It has one humbucking pickup and two single-coil pickups, which provide a broad range of sounds plus that classic Stratocaster tone
• The Squier Affinity Stratocaster has a master volume control and a master tone control, with chrome finish hardware. The tuning machines are standard die-cast, and there is a three-ply, white pick guard

Squier Affinity Stratocaster Pack Review

What Do Squier Affinity Strat Owners Think? >>

Summary

Most kids would love to start out on a real Strat, but this is just way too much money to spend on a beginner. The Squier Affinity Strat Starter Pack is the ideal compromise, because you still get the Fender quality, and the Strat style, without the regular Strat price.

This bundle package is a great deal, with everything the student needs, and it is a guitar that they can learn and grow with.

2. Best Budget Package: LyxPro Electric Guitar with 20w Amp Package

Offers the most complete range of included accessories.

LyxPro 39 inch Electric Guitar Kit Bundle with 20w Amplifier, All Accessories, Digital Clip On Tuner, Six Strings, Two Picks, Tremolo Bar, Shoulder Strap, Case Bag Starter kit Full Size - Red

Let’s face it. One of the coolest guitars on the planet is the Fender Stratocaster, but who wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a guitar for a kid who is just starting out, and might not even stay interested in playing?

Get them a great little guitar that looks just like a Strat, but comes in a bundle kit that costs less than $200? That guitar is the LyxPro electric guitar, and it comes in a bundle package with everything they need to open the box and start playing.

This is a full-size, 39-inch electric guitar that is ideal for both beginner and intermediate players, so it is a guitar that is going to grow with your young learner. It has a solid wood body, with a neck made from Canadian maple and a rosewood fretboard.

Check LyxPro Electric Guitar Customer Reviews >>

Key Features

• This guitar has S-S-S pickups, along with a one-way tremolo and a pickup switch. It also has separate volume and tone controls. All of the controls are laid out as they are on a Strat, so they are familiar and easy to reach and manipulate
• The bundle package includes the full-size, 39-inche electric LyxPro electric guitar, a 20-watt amplifier, a digital clip-on tuner, two picks, a set of extra strings, a shoulder strap, a tremolo bar, and a gig bag
• The 20-watt amp is great for beginners. It is just loud enough for them to be able to practice, and not so loud that it is going to drive everyone in the house crazy. It offers a quality sound, which is important for ear training

LyxPro Electric Guitar with 20w Amp Review

What Do LyxPro Customers Think? >>

Summary

It isn’t often that we find a guitar that we have no complaints about, especially one in this price range, but this is one of those rarities.

We like pretty much everything about this guitar. As far as the price goes, this bundle package is costlier than others we are looking at today, but when you consider the quality of the instrument and accessories, you really are getting a pretty great deal.

3. Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package

For heavier rock tones, this is the package for you.

Epiphone has been creating innovative guitar designs for the past century and they are well known for producing fine crafted instruments.

This Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package is known for the great sound quality, which it produces due to the open-coil humbucker and the solid wood body. This produces a great quality of sound without buzz, whether you use it for clean tones or on overdrive.

It may be more expensive than the others listed here but it offers a better quality guitar with additional useful accessories that beginners will certainly use. It is the best electric guitar for beginners who are really picky with the sound quality that their guitar produces.

It is a less expensive alternative that is great for beginners to practice on before they upgrade into the more expensive Fender or Gibson guitars.

The complete package contains the guitar, an amp, a guitar cable, a tuner, picks, gig bag, and a clip-on tuner. It comes in various colors to suit your preference and it is also available in different game configurations for compatibility to your game console.

Click Here to Check Epiphone Les Paul Player Package Availability >>

Key Features

• The player package includes a Les Paul Special-II LTD guitar
• The guitar has two classic humbucker pickups
• The package includes a 10-watt amp, 10’ guitar cable, gig bag, guitar strap, picks, and clip-on tuner
• Solid wood guitar body and mahogany neck
• Fretboard is made from rosewood
• Right-handed guitar
• Has the Les Paul signature to easily identify it as a great quality guitar

Epiphone Les Paul Guitar Player Pack Review

Are Epiphone Customers Happy? >>

Summary

The Epiphone Les Paul certainly offers up strong tones and great playability backed by a top brand name manufacturer. For more information on the guitar itself, read our full review here.

4. Best Vintage Style Starter Package: Maestro by Gibson Electric Guitar

Classic Gibson style priced for entry level beginners.

Maestro by Gibson Electric Guitar Starter Package, Vintage Sunburst

Everyone wants to play a Gibson or a Fender guitar, but many people think that they can’t have a quality guitar from either of these manufacturers without having to spend a ton of money. If this is what you’ve been thinking, it’s time to think again.

Both manufacturers offer some great quality, low-end guitars, including the Maestro by Gibson. This electric guitar comes with a starter package, so you have everything you need to start playing right away.

This is a cutaway guitar that’s similar in design to the early Les Paul body style Gibson guitars that are so sought-after. The classic design lets you play comfortably, both while sitting and standing, and it offers an ideal tone for anyone who wants to play rock and roll.

Read What Maestro Customers are Saying >>

Key Features

• The Maestro by Gibson has a Linden wood body, along with a solid maple neck and rosewood fingerboard with dot inlays, making it look as great as it sounds. You will love the classic sunburst pattern that is common in Gibson guitars
• This guitar has a 24.75-inch scale length. This means that there is a lot less tension on the strings, so you don’t have to press on the strings as hard as you would with other guitars. This is great for beginners who haven’t toughened up their fingertips yet
• The tailpiece on this guitar is a traditional, wrap-around design that allows you to enjoy extra sustain, and the precision tuners are die-cast, so the guitar is going to stay in tune longer than other cheap guitars

Maestro Electric Guitar Starter Pack Review

Do Maestro Customers Like the Guitar? >>

Summary

If you really want to play on a Gibson guitar, it is definitely within your reach with the Maestro. This starter package has everything you need to begin learning and playing right away, including a lesson DVD that will help you to get started.

You can buy this guitar for much less than it’s upper-priced counterparts, so you don’t have to spend a lot of money before you decide if you are going to continue learning and playing.

5. Best Standalone Beginner Guitar: Ibanez GRX70 Electric Guitar

If want to start with learning heavier modern tunes, this guitar is your best choice.

Ibanez GIO Series GRX70QA - Transparent Black Sunburst

An affordable take on the many high performance models from the Ibanez company, the GRX70 is an aesthetically pleasing and fun to play guitar.

The Ibanez GRX70 is a guitar designed for beginners and veterans alike who prioritize playability and modern styling above vintage specs.

Known for its fast neck and versatile Humbucker-Single-Humbucker configuration, you can coax a lot of sounds from the GRX70.

Like most guitars in this price range, Ibanez does its best to provide a quality product at a more affordable price. Much like their prized and pricey Joe Satriani and Steve Vai signatures, the GRX70 is all about performance.

This guitar is definitely more to the shred or metal side of the guitar world, but is comfortable and versatile thanks to the fast neck. While the GRX70 isn’t perfect, it should inspire the next wave of lead guitarists and is a great value.

Click Here to Check Davison Guitars Availability >>

Key Features

• Very versatile HSH pickup configuration
• Sports a thin, fast modern neck
• Dive bomb-ready whammy bar
• Can come paired with practice amp
• Ultra affordable guitar for what it is
• Consistently great reviews

Ibanez GRX70 Electric Guitar Review

What Do Ibanez GRX70 Guitar Owners Think? >>

Summary

For a standalone beginner electric guitar, the Ibanez GRX70 represent a superior deal.

If you’re into the heavier side of guitar music, the neck and whammy bar are built for shredding, and the Powersound pickups provide a good bit of tonal versatility.

Having a comfortable neck is one of the most important features in a beginner guitar, and the GRX70 excels in that department.

For more info, read our complete Ibanez GRX70 Electric Guitar review.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Beginner Electric Guitar

Considering the wide range of manufacturers, styles, and options available to those who want to start with a good electric guitar, the choices can be overwhelming and intimidating.

When shopping for the best option that ticks all the boxes for you personally, here are a few key points you should consider:

Budget

First, you should set a budget for the guitar you are purchasing. Just be careful about guitars that seem to be overly cheap. The market is flooded with inferior instruments that we classify as GSOs – Guitar Shaped Objects.

They may not be of the good quality and you can end up wasting your money with them. It is important to also see the quality of the guitar in relation to the price.

Brand

Another thing to consider is the brand. This can help determine whether a guitar is a great choice or not. Most brands that produce professional grade guitar models for performers will also have sub-brands that are targeted towards the entry level beginners.

For example; Gibson use the Epiphone name, Fender uses the Squier name and so on for the lower cost versions of their best guitar designs.

Style

It is also important to consider how you are going to use the guitar. Are you just purchasing a guitar for a game or do you want to really play music with it? You should also think about the certain genre that you are going to play and match your guitar with it.

Our Top 3 Choices for Beginner Electric Guitars:

Best Beginner Electric

AFFINITY SERIES STRATOCASTER HSS PACK (371824009)

Best Budget Package

LyxPro 39 inch Electric Guitar Kit Bundle with 20w...

Best Hard Rock Guitar

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack, Ebony

Final Verdict on Choosing the Best Electric Guitar For Beginners

Of all the five guitar sets reviewed here, our favourite pick is the Squier Affinity Starter Strat Pack is the best electric guitar for beginners who are looking for a longer lasting guitar made by a reputable manufacturer.

Although it may be a little bit more expensive than some of the others, the quality is that much better.

It also comes with a great set of accessories that beginners will find useful and essential. It’s a great step in purchasing a guitar and learning how to play it. With a good quality brand, you can also expect a good quality product.

EDITOR’S PICK

Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack

What Do Squier Affinity Strat Pack Owners Think? >>

The post Best Electric Guitar For Beginners (How To Start Rocking Right) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

In this expert review, we examine the best electric guitars under $500 that provide the greatest overall value for beginner to intermediate players.

Table of Contents

What’s the Best Electric Guitar Under $500? Let’s Find Out!

In Review: The Top 3 Electric Guitars Under $500

1. Squier by Fender Deluxe Stratocaster Electric Guitar
2. Schecter C-1 SGR Electric Guitar
3. Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V Electric Guitar

What To Look For When Choosing A Good Electric Guitar Under $500

Compare your best choices for electric guitars under $500

Final Verdict: Which Mid-level Electric Guitar Promises the Best Value?

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

What’s the Best Electric Guitar Under $500? Let’s Find Out!

Budget Electric Guitars at a glance:

Product	Feature Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Best Value Squier by Fender Deluxe Stratocaster			$$
#2 Modern Voicing Schecter C-1 SGR			$$
#3 Most Versatile Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V			$$$

In Review: The Top 3 Electric Guitars Under $500

1. Best Value: Squier by Fender Affinity Series Stratocaster Guitar

Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Brown Sunburst, Laurel Fingerboard

The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar is a very affordable electric guitar that beginners and intermediate players can buy. It has a poplar body and maple neck with a radius of 10”.

The pickups used for the guitar are three Strat single coils. They’re dynamically responsive, clear-sounding  crisp, and provide a rich tone.

The Squier Affinity Stratocaster comes with suitable die-cast tuners good enough to tune the guitar and play it, although there are tuners that are better. The well-crafted maple neck sports a laurel fingerboard with a very smooth satin finish; perfect for moving up and down the fretboard .

The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster comes in a rainbow of attractive finishes to suit any taste. Considering the parent company’s heritage and outstanding consistent level of quality, this is certainly one of the best electric guitar under $500.

A great option especially for those who want an electric guitar that not only sounds good, but looks good as well.

Squier Strat Key Features

• Guitar body is made of basswood and has a polyurethane finish
• Neck is made from maple and has a radius of 9.5”
• Has 22 medium jumbo frets that is on a maple fingerboard
• Makes use of single-coil pickups that are Three Duncan Designed
• Has a synchronous twin-pivot tremolo
• Has controls for volume, tone and a position selector
• Available in different colors

Explore All Squier Affinity Options:

Squier Affinity Series from Fender >>

Squier Affinity Stratocaster Electric Guitar in Review

What We Like

• • • Low price for the great value of the guitar
    • Looks just like a high end guitar
    • Frets and neck are smooth and comfortable

What We Don’t Like

• • • Difficult to keep in tune with excessive use of the whammy bar
    • Tuners are not the best quality
    • Guitar may not be set up and needs to be adjusted to lower the action

What are Squier Affinity Strat Owners Saying? >>

2. Most Modern: Schecter C-1 SGR Electric Guitar

C-1 SGR by Schecter Beginner Electric Guitar - Walnut Satin (Amazon Exclusive)

The C-1 SGR by Schecter beginner electric guitar has an arched top, carved body with a maple neck, and rosewood fretboard. It has pearloid dots, a custom inlay on the 12^th fret, and has black chrome hardware.

This is a great looking guitar that plays excellent considering it’s low price. The C-1 SGR by Schecter we examined on our workbench had all the earmarks of great overall value.

Many entry-level guitars can have less than great ergonomic design making uncomfortable to play.

This guitar is shaped with the comfort of the player in mind.

C-1 Key Features

• smooth, arched top
• pickups are clean and reasonably well balanced
• polished black chrome hardware
• 24 frets for a full two octave span
• pearloid dots
• unique pattern on the 12^th fret
• attractive and unique shape
• comes with its own gig bag
• easy playing, fast action neck

Schecter C-1 SGR Electric Guitar in Review

What We Like

• • • This guitar comes in a variety of colors, including walnut satin, electric blue, and midnight satin black
    • You have 24 frets to work with, so the guitar is going to be able to grow with you as you learn and want to experiment more on the higher frets
    • The rosewood fretboard is attractive with the pearloid dots and interesting 12th fret design, and it is smooth and easy to play on

What We Don’t Like

• • • One of the biggest problems we can find with this guitar is that it sometimes will buzz between frets, therefor a minor setup is necessary
    • There are other entry-level guitars around the same price that have much better pickups
    • This is probably not the best choice for advanced musicians, as it is designed to be a beginner guitar

What Are Schecter C-1 SGR Customers Saying? >>

Read our complete expert Schecter C-1 SGR electric guitar review here.

3. Most Versatile: Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 Electric Guitar

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012 Electric Guitar; Metallic Red

The guitars that fall under the Yamaha Pacifica Series such as this PAC12 Electric Guitar are well known for their tone as well as how great they are to play. It comes from a well- known brand when it comes to producing musical instruments.

It certainly qualifies as one of the best electric guitars under $500 for those who are looking for a guitar with a great quality of sound.

This Yamaha guitar comes in different colors and there are also different models that are under the same series. They can also be purchased as a set with accessories, with the amp only, or a guitar only.

Yamaha PAC12 Key Features

• Body is made from solid alder
• The neck is made of maple and is bolt-on
• It has a beautiful rosewood fingerboard
• It includes a vintage tremolo
• Finished with a clear varnish to showcase the natural grain of the wood
• Has a 5-position pickup switch with humbucker coil-splitting
• There are 2 single-coil pickups and an Alnico V magnet humbucker
• Guitar can be purchased as the guitar alone, with a set of accessories or only with the amp

Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Electric Guitar in Review

What We Like

• • • Low action makes it easier for beginners to use and practice on it
    • Materials used for the guitar are properly built to make sure they are durable

What We Don’t Like

• • • Initially set up for low action which causes some fret buzz, but this can be remedied by having it properly set up by a local music store
    • Doesn’t include other accessories such as an amp, picks, guitar cord or a stand

What Do Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Users Think?

What To Look For When Choosing A Good Electric Guitar Under $500

The best way to learn how to play an electric guitar is to have a decent instrument that you can practice on. At first it may seem that some electric guitars are too expensive, which is why some choose to go for a self-contained acoustic.

If you’re committed to learning and playing an electric guitar, you’ll certainly find one that will fit your $500 budget.

There are tons of electric guitars are under $500, but you still have to make sure a particular electric guitar you choose is well suited for you.

There are electrics that not only sound great but look great too – but keep in mind cosmetic appointments come at a price. Still, these are instruments you’ll certainly be happy to take with you to your gigs and jam sessions.

Of course there are electric guitars produced by well-known brands; these may be budget friendly, but they’re still great quality.

When selecting a guitar, it’s important to consider how you’re going to use it. It must It must also be user friendly and easy to play. This will help make sure the guitar you choose will really be useful to you.

Compare your best choices for electric guitars under $500:

Best Electric Under $500

Squier by Fender Deluxe Hot Rails Stratocaster...

Most Modern Voicing

C-1 SGR by Schecter Beginner Electric Guitar...

Most Versatile Guitar

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V Electric Guitar...

Final Verdict: Which Mid-level Electric Guitar Promises the Best Value?

Affordable guitars under $500 are available today and you can find a great quality model within that budget.

The three mentioned here are all under $500 but if we just had to choose one, we’d say that the Squier Affinity Stratocaster Electric Guitar is the best electric guitar under $500.

For those who are concerned not only with the sound and quality but also the appearance of their guitar, this guitar can certainly be taken to gigs and jamming sessions.

EDITOR’S PICK

Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar

What are Squier Strat Owners Saying? >>

• Overall Build Quality
• Overall Sound Quality
• Overall Value Factor

4.4

Summary

Overall Score:

Top Guitar Accessories:

OnStage XCG4 Black Tripod Guitar Stand, Single

Snark SN5X Clip-On Tuner for Guitar, Bass & Violin...

Pick Punch - The Original Guitar Pick Punch SAME...

D'Addario Accessories Pro-Winder Guitar String...

The post The Best Electric Guitars Under $500 [Quick Guide & Reviews] first appeared on GuitarNiche.