Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster (Good Looking AND Affordable Strat)
Vložit
- čas přidán 24. 07. 2024
- Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster (Good Looking AND Affordable Strat)
First off, this guitar looks good. It's also not expensive. This could just be a great beginner guitar. Granted, it's not cheap for a beginner guitar, but then again I think it pays to invest a bit in your first guitar.
I've tried out a couple of different Squier Strats recently, the Affinity and a 1990's Korean Strat, and they both had their pros and cons. I'm hoping the Classic Vibe will have more pros than cons. This particular one is the 60's model, and it's candy apple red. I've always wanted a candy apple red Stratocaster, so when I was looking at which one to try, this one basically jumped at me.
Anyway, enough about all that. How good is the 60's Classic Vibe Strat? Is it all looks, and no substance? Find out in this video.
00:00 Intro
05:50 Playing
15:50 Conclusion
Check out my Patreon page for music and exclusives: / elmojk
For official website, visit elmojk.com
For lessons, visit ejkguitaracademy.com
Check out my music on Spotify: spoti.fi/2VnLgMs
Facebook: / elmojk
Instagram: / elmojkarjalainen
Twitter: / elmokarjalainen
The gear I most often use.
A Stratocaster of some kind, either an Yngwie Malmsteen Strat, such as this: www.thomann.de/intl/fender_yn...
or a custom Strat with a scalloped fretboard.
For 7 string stuff I mostly use an Ibanez Universe.
A Marshall 1987x: www.thomann.de/intl/marshall_...
Marshall Cab with 30 Watt Celestions: www.thomann.de/intl/marshall_...
A Fender Yngwie Malmsteen overdrive.
Boss NS-2 noise gate: www.thomann.de/intl/boss_ns2_...
Strymon Sunset: www.thomann.de/intl/strymon_s...
A Morley Bad Horsie 2 wah: www.thomann.de/intl/morley_st...
Strymon Timeline delay: www.thomann.de/intl/strymon_t...
Or a TC Electronic Flashback Mini: www.thomann.de/intl/tc_electr...
An AKG C-414 mic: www.thomann.de/intl/akg_c414_...
The patch cables on my pedalboard are these: www.thomann.de/intl/ebs_pcf_d...
Pedaltrain Novo 24: www.thomann.de/intl/pedaltrai...
For acoustic stuff I use a Taylor 710 short scale thingy. - Hudba
Check out more gear videos: czcams.com/play/PLNaLwTdlpQNFt5yZFJRiFtoHtPJm6bX-N.html
I would not say it is a beginners guitar . I gig out with mine all the time and I,m no beginner .
Been checking videos of CV's for the last months as my first electric guitar, been playing acoustic for years. This video just made me order a CV strat and i also ordered a Boss Katana MK2 : ) Thx Elmo! Can't wait to learn electric now :D
Glad I could help :)
Elmo - to me you are the only guitar/gear reviewer who i can truly trust for a solid and honest review
OK, so far, I've got the blk fade evh you demo, I just ordered the candy apple red classic vibe! You demoed! Got great deals on both! Nice! Thanks
The guitar might be awesome, but that new background is double awesome!
More is more :)
I like your honesty in reviewing gears. Keep up the good work!
The frets are their thin tall frets, the same ones they put on the $1400 american Professional Strat, and is the most popular fret size on Custom Shop orders
My 2011 CV Strat came with a perfectly Quartersawn neck(?!) and beautiful pale Lake Placid blue. The alder is very lightweight and fretwork was superb too. I put a BladeRunner bridge and Lace Sensor RWB's on it and an upgraded switch /electronics in it so now it's virtually a 'Super Strat'.
Elmo, mate that is awesome.Ever since I saw YJM with a Candy Apple Strat on cover of GuitarWorld, back in 80's, I've thought they were pretty cool. The one he had looked a lot like the guitar you have here. I have a CandyApple red with matching headstock Affinity, which has been set-up and fret dressed. Plays good, but I think the one you have here probably is a lot better.
Thanks for your videos, you stay cool.👍
Good stuff as always! I have one Squier Strat - maybe 50's vibe IIRC - and to be honest it has been a decent workhorse for 10 years - for 500€ years, which I paid, I have been really satisfied. -After all I bought it to do cleans for the record back in the day.
Cool bananas :)
It's always good to hear one of the old world masters play. Even the 50 cycle (Hz) noise sounds better than the North American 60 cycle noise. About the fret ends - There are many videos on You Tube that will show you how to fix that problems. It is not expensive, but will take a few hours of your time. I built my own beginner guitar. It is an SG type. One thing you didn't note was the balance. My SG is neck heavy. I believe Fender and PRS types are more balanced. I also learned that used amps may need repairs. I finally got mine back from the shop last week. No more excuses. Time to learn to play the thing
Yeah, I watched one such video. Going to fix up a couple of these.
I have the exact same one. I love it. It’s not a beginner guitar. I pick it up before I pick up my fender mim. If u can play then you’ll love this guitar
Squire classic series Strat's and Tele's are the way to go, along with a 335 copy, a Les Paul clone a few acoustics including a twelve string, various amps etc etc. Don't let Elmo fool you - once started there is no stopping until the space runs out :).
:)
Great review 🤘
Thanks!
Excellent review!
Glad you liked it!
Good review, thanx!!
My pleasure!
I have this same guitar. As an amateur songwriter and rhythm guitar player in a local band, I doubt I’d ever need another guitar. The CV Strat just covers so many bases with no fuss.
Thank you so much for this video! I am planning to make a replica of David Gilmour's legendary Candy Apple Red Strat and it looks like this Classic Vibe is going to be perfect for that. Unfortunately there isn't a model with CAR color and yellow maple neck, so a few upgrades will be needed, but otherwise it looks like an amazing guitar for the price!
I bought one exactly the same 3 months ago to learn with. I am very happy with it for my first choice and I didn't know shit, just grabbed guitar and amp and payed for it and run out the store thinking I made a very bad choice but seems I made a very good choice for that price range.
I've not tried a classic vibe for years, but the last one I played was absolutly stunning! One of my 'guitars that got away'! I should have just found a way to buy it on the spot!
That sucks :(
Me too, found a really good feeling one and it got away😩
I have the same guitar in the same color. My CV is a 2022 I bought new online. I like it a lot. The only mods I made so far were shorter saddle screws, brass tremolo block. I had to put grease in the tuner holes because they were a little bit stiff turning them. They are fine now and hold tune great. I also shaped the bone nut a little bit better. The bone nut had squared edges when I first got the guitar and I didn’t like it. I also polished the nut and all the frets. I love the pickups. I wouldn’t change them. They are Alnico 5’s. I have other guitars with humbucker’s . My suggestion is if you can find a CV used in perfect shape buy it. I have seen them for $250 used. Great guitar
Totally dig this review.
Thanks!
Now this one sounds really nice. I’m considering getting one. I think it’s a better idea to try it out if they have one at the local shop
Have a Classic Vibe Strat, and strongly prefer it over a PRS SE that is more than twice the price (sold the SE after). I also tried the Fender Player Strat, and it was the same in terms of feel and play. If you sand the gloss off the neck, it is one of the best guitars for the money out there. I still may end up getting a Player even though it is $400 extra for only slightly better specs. The color options, thicker neck, and other smaller upgrades on the Player are things that would really nail the best strat for me. I doubt Fender will ever give locking tuners, roasted necks, Stainless frets, contoured joints, etc. without the price of your left kidney, so no choice really. Harley Benton gives you all this but no color option apart from natural, and pickups are a bit inferior.
I need to try a Player Strat.
@@MrPolevaulter For sure. To be specific I tried a Player Tele but have a Squire Strat. Overall feel and playability was strikingly similar.
From my own experience with prs those guitars are missing something, magic dust, mojo, fairy dust I don't know it's something
Ive had a few awesome PRS but I do think they miss a bit of magic dust haha. Returned my flame top, Player Strat- too heavy but I have played a few Player Strats that rocked. These Classic Vibes look and sound pretty cool!
Sounds like a Stratocaster to me. Love the classic vibe series, i have a mustang and jazz master. I have a ‘72 Stratocaster that i love to play clean and a ‘06 MIM i really enjoy playing with distortions and fuzz. I suppose i just want another Stratocaster honestly 😂 “one more” I’ve always wanted a red strat with a dark finger board. Cool video!
Cheers!
I bought the Classic Vibe 50's model in Fiesta Red with Maple neck and it is just a great guitar. Have about 50 hours on it now and have had no fret sprout issues at all, nor have I had to adjust the truss rod. I had considered doing some mods to it but every time i plug it in and i'm playing it i can't find a reason to spend any money on it other than new strings.
Cool bananas :)
I have the same guitar. It was playable right out of the box and as close to perfect as you can get.
The classic vibes I've played have all been pretty damn decent guitars. They may feel a little plasticky but that can be easily fixed with some sand paper.
The bit of fret sprout popping out there may be able to be fixed by oiling the fretboard a bit. The wood gets dry and shrinks so the frets "sprout". Adding a bit of moisture back into the board can fix the issue.
If I was in the market for a classic vibe I would buy it used. There are a ton to choose from used and you save money by not losing as much money if you ever want to sell it.
Yep. Second hand is the way to go.
Good playing 🤘
Thanks!
Hey there do you think you would consider reviewing a budget Yamaha maybe something like the erg 121cpf I got the there day for 150bucks what a killer guitar for the money mine is modded with Duncan design pickups and has upgraded hardware like brass roller saddles
Nice one. And I agree 100% on everything you said about this guitar. But I would still get a Vintage brand JHS/Wilkinson Stratocaster for the same amount of money. They took that extra mile and the frets are ok, pickups ok and every small thing that feels a bit cheapo about the squire feels good on the Vintage brand strats.
I tried one Vintage once. It was really good.
Studio looks nice the way you have it set up now.
Yeah, I'm sure liking it :)
Hi! Great review, and that plexisound was just gold! I have one quiz about the guitar. Compared to fender body, is squier body thinner or full thickness?
I had few years ago older model with alder body and it was ~5mm thinner than mex strats body.
Not sure. I'd have to check.
That thing can gig...it is high mileage good working instrument...
They are mostly well made and put together...in my experience main difference between them and Fender's are electronics and logo on the headstock.
As always, very good video Elmo.
Best regards from Balkan.
Thank you :)
Elmo, Thanks for all of your time and efforts in making this "Really" nice video. I just ordered this (same) guitar and I was wondering if (When you made this video) were you playing with the 9's that it comes with or did you change the strings to a different Brand and maybe Gauge 10's. I enjoyed your playing very much and I did subscribe to your channel. Thanks, again, my friend...
Thank you very much :) I had the original strings on.
As a modding platform. Would you go for a classic vibe or vintage v6 s-type. I intend to buy one of them and upgrade the electronics and pups. Would appreciate your opinion
Elmo 1st of all , your videos & playing are awesome. I don't know why you aren't playing for the Eagles or some really cool group. However , I've got a 50s classic vibe ( Sherwood green with matching headstock) and it's absolutely awesome. Great feel ( frets/neck) pickups sound as good as my 59 reissue custom ( weird ) since their supposed to be alnico 5's. For $440 damn nice axe. $399 + tax. I remember the strats of the 80s with matching headstock were around $2500. American usually ran around $1000. I'd call this guitar a steal . Thanks .
Thanks!
Quick update on my strat, I fucking love it.
What Alnico pickups does the Vibe have? Are they V5, V2, V3??? I really love the sound. However I like the Fender player for the medium jumbo frets. So I was wondering if I could swap out the fender player pickups for the ones like the vibe, which sound better to me.
I'm thinkinking the frets are gonna wear out too quick on the vibe being thin tall frets.
I forget.
Have you compared this one to yamaha pacifica (212)? Btw, I would suggest two types of guitars to test: high-end budget marks (squier, epiphone, maybe Fender MM) and low end "proper" marks - Fender AM, Gibson, etc. It would help me 😄 what to choose: fender player (MM) or American Performer (the cheapest fender AM). I think that many hobbyist (?) ... (hobbits?) wonder what to choose, and your opinion, while subjective, is honest
I haven't (yet at least). I have been thinking of comparing a low end Fender to this. Would be interesting.
If you get a chance, check out EART Strats and Telies. They are a little cheaper and you may be impressed. My Eart Tele is sweet. I don't know if their Strat can beat Squires CV's?
When you turn off the noise gate, I expect a re-creation of the start of "Back to the Future".
:D
How does it compare to the Jet guitar?
I saw you made some time ago a review about the Cort G260 (also a strat). Would you say this Squier CV is better? or the Cort wins the battle?
I'd say the Cort was better.
Hi, Elmo!
Great job and skills on the guitar (it is clear you enjoy playing that guitar more than a boy with a new toy).
I needed to make you some questions and excuse me for daring to ask you (but maybe you can clarify some doubts I have)...
These are my questions:
- Could I use an original Fender Stratocaster tremolo bar or other original Fender parts in those Classic Vibes 60's Strats?
- Would you say, about that specific guitar you play on this video, it has a smooth fretboard and neck with frets properly leveled?
Whether you can answer or not, let me thank you in advance...
P.S.: I'm considering to buy one of those Classic Vibe Strats to upgrade it with the purpose of playing the live gigs with it...
Thanks! Not sure about the trem. The neck on this one feels good, but I did have to file down the fret ends.
what the name of the song he plays at 13:34?
Squier classic vibe 60s vs ibanez sa260fm ?
How does than fretboard feel Elmo? I know they changed from Rosewood to Indian Laurel on those Classic Vibes in recent years, and was wondering if you had to oil it out of the box.
It felt good. I didn't have to do anything to it.
@@MrPolevaulter ah cool. I know from working at the shop that the current Classic Vibe range is a bit hit and miss on the QC, but so is every guitar under £1000 haha
Hi Elmo...I've watched a fair amount of your vids...and IMO, your amp and pedals make it almost impossible to hear ANY sonic differences in the guitar you are testing/comparing...
I understand that shred/metal is your thing but...even Hendrix understood the value of a great clean tone...
Just my 2 cents...Rock on Bro :)
You got it right. The CV Strats are $399 in the US
Cheers!
They go for about $350- 450 depending on if its an open box or new.
A good review and great playing. Just a thought though, if you want humbuckers in the Classic Vibe, maybe go for the HSS version instead.
I'm seriously thinking of picking up one of the limited run SSS versions in black/maple. I've got a set of Seymour Duncan's tucked away somewhere, and tidying up fret ends is straightforward enough if you have the right tools (I do).
Thanks for the independent opinion on them.
Thank you for the kind words :)
Comes in red with a white fret board just like Marks Knopflers.
Sold!
Mark Knopfler is really good :)
@@MrPolevaulter Lol I actually did buy it. Having fun learning on it.
White pick guard…
Can this guitar model be modified was thinking in buy this model an install the yjm fury pick ups on it will this made an improvement to it?
Sure thing.
I just got one with a humbucker in the bridge and a maple neck. After 30 minutes of playing, it was off to the tech. It needed a complete setup, including nut work. That said, the tone was really good. And I think it will play good once the action is set correctly. As far as the Affinitys go, I got lucky. I bought one used around 7-8 years ago, and it's awesome. The pickups suck and I will get around to changing them one of these days. But it plays and feels great. Don't discount those guitars. I also had a Tele that I'm still kicking myself for selling. Maybe the previous owner did some work on them. But both are great guitars. Play a bunch to find one you like. As for this video, Elmo, you're awesome.
Thanks Mike! Yeah, the quality can vary a lot, especially in cheap guitars.
i love your reactions 💚😭😂
Hi! Great review! Do you know how much it weights? Thank you!
No. Not a huge amount though.
Hi it's about 7.9 like a MIM really. Standard
I’ve wondered if the bone nut, thicker bridge plate and Fender designed pickups is worth it on that price $399 USD. I’m still on the fence and thought about waiting and save up money for the Yamaha 600 series with all the extras but it’s at $650 USD. Money is a issue for me and I’m not a seasoned player like yourself. I just want a dedicated single coil guitar for those moments I need it.
Haven't tried the Yamaha, so can't really say.
Elmo Karjalainen I’m curious and need your opinion since you are experienced.
Do you think the classic vibe Strat would be good for me short term since I’m still a beginner/amateur that plays occasionally on a gig and don’t have the money for a American Strat or high end S style guitar with single coils? I use a PRS SE single cut with stock humbuckers which has been great but I occasionally would like to have a single coil.
Beginner guitar? Hell more pros or well practiced players buy these than beginners. Hahah. Great review man! And I've one in Lake Placid Blue. Made in China just as my 2015. Not sure about the same China factory or not....But I still like the 2015 a bit more. Idk why yet. Hahah maybe it's the 9s on the new ones I've not yet changed. I did a couple vids with it already. I need the bone nut cut in a little bit better for tuning.
Mine also really looks more rosewood than Laurel. Very strange. I show it in my vid. Maybe I got lucky. Maybe it was preproduction for the NAMM and dealers idk. It's very close.
Also mine does not have the tone in bridge as some do.
Cheers :)
@@MrPolevaulter Elmo cheers mate!! From USA! Love your show brother. I'm nowhere near your professional skill....I'm a drummer after 27 years went to guitar ...2018 haven't stopped since. Hahahah. Learning alot. Check my little channel out! Anyway thank you for all you do for the community.
My classic vibe 60 FSR purple colour broke down within 12 months(home use only) .....sound cuts out when playing.....the shop refused to fix it....not happy. Overall the guitar feels very nice. I will pay to get it fixed one day.
Sorry to hear.
Now I need to know what you'd think of the Squier Contemporary Strat's. All of them ;-)
:D
i got a Greg Bennet Samick Guitar for $150 ,11 years back no fret sprouts.
I would choose cv over silversky se anyday. Sound way more authentic.
I still confuse what should i pick, this Classic Vibe Stratocaster or Pacifica 612. Very nice review sir, thank you. :)
Haven't tried the Pacifica, so I can't really help.
I’m farther into your video It sounds like Malmsteen tone. That’s not the tone I really like. But I guess it’s cool for that style of playing.
Thank you , Elmo, for covering my favourite budget guitar. More than a beginner's. With a good setup you can gig with the CV. Btw, the 50s version has rolled edges and Tonerider pickups.
And thank you :)
Man you make an affordable guitar sound awesome! I tried a Harley Benton- sounded cool but the headstock looks weird and thr neck was CRAP! Horrible fretwork. I might order a classic vibe
Thanks!
It is
It would take you almost $700.00 total (guitar included) to make that guitar sound as good or better than any Fender American Strat. A bit more if you replace the bridge that's probably made of some cheap metal alloy. Is it worth the investment or you are better of just buying a MIM Player Strat? If you enjoy moding a guitar is worth it. Or just leave it as it is.
Going to try a MIM, and also compare it to this.
I had a pau ferro series player that I sold for a classic vibe 50 fiesta red mii because I prefer the neck of the cv a thousand times which is exceptional for me, after a few modifications ( mexican standard bridge steel block from kevin , 5way swicth ,pots,caps and pickups) this guitar is as good as my standard us 2006, the original pickups are very good, but I preferred to replace them for my favorite brand Dallen, it's just a matter of personal taste
Hi Elmo, What is your opinion about this guitar trem?
It's OK.
@@MrPolevaulter THX
It's unfair, the guy could make sound good a broom too! 😄
Is it's cv 50s ,60s Or 70s?
I forget. It's ages since I reviewed it. Didn't I say in the video?
15:44 Dream Theater - The Mirror, kind of 😅
:D
@@MrPolevaulter That wasn't the Mirror that Was that... Puppies Doing Drugs.. song :)
"Beginner" guitar? It may not be a perfect guitar, but it's a great all around Strat.
Errr...sorry?
@@MrPolevaulter no apologies needed. I mean for a beginner, ot is an excellent starter but it's also nice enough to keep well beyond your beginner years. In fact, I'm getting one for my 13-year old daughter and am considering picking up one for myself while I'm at it.
@@93greenstrat I meant I wasn't entirely sure what you meant :D
The resale value on these seems to have dropped. I've had my 2017 classic 60s vibe strat in sunburst (which is in unplayed brand new condition in case with all tags from guitar center still attached) for sale for 275 for 4 months. Not one taker.
Yeah, that can happen.
Can i get a link?
Very nice. I wouldnt buy it to upgrade it thought. Maybe take the shine off and reluc it. Or just buy mexican for better electronics.
Maybe.
I Prefer 22 Frets, But the Seemed OK, You Know How Twangy it Sounds with New Strings. It Seems to have Value for 380 Euros!
Yep, good value guitar.
Now you’re doing Gary Moore Phil Lynott tune. It doesn’t sound too good for that. Well I guess that’s what you get for the money
Are you up for selling the squier to a fellow Fin?😁
Sure. Once I've compared it to a Fender Player Strat.
You call that a Strat review?
For the price? Get off your high horse. It's a fantastic guitar and it's NOT A BEGINNER GUITAR, IT IS A GUITAR THAT DELIVERS! - NOTHING WRONG WITH THE PICKUPS EITHER. GET YOUR HEAD EXAMINED BUDDY, THAT IVORY TOWER OF YOURS IS GETTING A LITTLE OLD. SERIOUSLY!
Wow! You have some anger issues.
Too many elitists in this hobby now days. The classic vibes are great guitars that are miles ahead of anything else in their price range.
Its his opinion. He is being honest and I think we should appreciate that. “Nice for the price” just means relative to instruments in the price range it is nice. I think most of us without bias appreciate the honesty. I think these guitars punch a little above their price range but they definitely don’t punch into the $1000 range and if you payed that much you would be disappointed, that’s what it means.