@@AudiomoMusic Ahahaha, too kind. But I must admit that once I tried the Push-Push pots I never really understood WHY the companies kept on using the Push-Pull Really, is beyond me
Great comprehensive review the colouring of the guitar is amazing. Agree on the standard, I think if your a professional guitarist or can afford these as a hobby go for it
Fender “soft touch” knobs, available in that same color only, will help with the push / pull grip. They have a rubber knurling and came out in 2016 on the Elite American Strats. $10.99 with free shipping from AMS, aka: American Musical Supply. Best price around and a have great feel. They make a Fender 25 cent knob feel like at minimum a 50 cent knob.
yeah, my main guitar for the last year and a half has been a player plus olympic white left-handed. I may be biased being left-handed cause there are not many options, but it is well worth the money to me. For what it's worth, the noiseless pickups are really good. the only thing that would really make this guitar a must-have would be a roasted maple neck and jumbo frets like a charvel or shecter.
I’ve had a player plus for 5 months new for £830. Very good guitar, feels good to play, sounds good. It had no problems out the box. I would definitely look at some PRS’ and other brands in the same price range though.
I just bought one . Got kill deal open box for $725 . I just don’t like the bridge pickup . I’m going to change that out for a stack humbucker . Great guitar play flawless
A great honest review. The price is definitely the issue, as is the weight. The American standard range was excellent so finding a used one cheaper is definitely a great way to go. But like you say, a used one of those at a lower price (or back in the days of the old deluxe prices) may be great for some folk down the line. Looks fantastic though- though I’m not a fan of the noiseless pickups yet tbh- they’ve got better each iteration but especially bridge position I struggle with the sound (but that’s just me and others may love it!)
I think they've improved with the overall quality of MIM, but the biggest problem with fender mexico is the fact they are priced where I can easily get Fender Japan, which imho crushes them to the point where I laugh playing them back to back. In the USA, Fender Japan for most people is not available, or on Reverb they are outrageously overpriced so I can understand why some would go for this alternative.
@@AudiomoMusic that makes a lot of sense, and maybe market-awareness and people not waiting for the right Japanese one to come along is what they are banking on? The good news is though it seems a good, gig worthy guitar that people will enjoy, just a shame its not a little lighter in weight and price but I guess if people buy them up they do well and if not they will be in the discount section at the price they probably should have been anyway and will be seen as good deals so i guess Fender win(ish) in a way either way! but like you, I'd go a Japanese one any day, I do miss my old Japanese Jag I sold years ago but still these seem like another good option for guitarists so thats a win :)
@@johnpise1723 agreed, every market is overpriced but this is my first “quality” guitar. This replacing my $169 Epiphone Les Paul special ii and I think the fretboard’s are both 12.5” so I don’t know how much better this will be on my Roland Micro cube GX solid state amp? Curious to find out because I just learned the Santeria solo and I’ve been playing about 3-6/months with only about 12 long sessions when I have time. CZcams makes it easier to learn riffs and such. I played for two months at 16 in 1996 and quit playing when I got a GF Lol. Tabs were amazing back then but CZcams is next level making it easier to get better if you put the time instead of noodling, which I do more of that then I should. I have better accuracy and speed for someone with my similar skill because of mindless noodling
I just picked one up last week and I 100% agree, easily one of the best playing strats I have ever had including my American ones. I have now decided I'm going m.i.m from now on
I LOVE the Olympic Pearl and as a new player I just had to buy this based on looks alone. This will be my second guitar… replacing the $170 Epiphone Les Paul special 2. I think the Epiphone is a great guitar for what I paid (besides the auxiliary port coming loose) and I’m curious how much different it will play because they have the same 12.5” fretboard size I think. I play on a Roland Micro cube GX so not sure how noiseless coils do on a solid state mini 3w amp?
Wow very nice review. I actually bought this at full retail and could not be happier the finish is fantastic. I think the Mexican bodies and necks are every bit as good as the American made. It is heavy and I think that is due to the alder body which I prefer over some of the other bodies they are making. I am with you on the new pull switch it is very difficult to pull that with a tapered knob on the fly I would prefer the push type as you suggested I have that one on my other fender Strats and I like it. I didn’t find the fret finish a problem at all and the non-tapered neck is not a problem for me. That brings me to the gig bag, like you I don’t like those so I ordered A gator hardshell case, and for 130 bucks it is fantastic. The only thing I was worried about coming from Mexico were the pick ups. my last Mexican made again fantastic body and neck but the pick ups were lacking. This time I found the pick ups to be really really good the bridge pick up seemed a bit tinney to me but I rolled off a little trouble and it is fine so I think I’ll keep those pick ups in there. I also like the quick change tuners. All in all you and Iagree on a lot of the features except for the cost which I did not mind looking at other options out there.
I think it's a good guitar and the mexican Fenders have come a LONG way. I really wish they would add in the push/push pot I would use that so much more if it were stock. Believe it or not, the tuners being the big old locking style absolutely contribute to the weight compared to the regular style non locking or vintage locking ones. It's the little things, but they all add up. I'm really happy you love your guitar! Which finish did you pick?
@@AudiomoMusicI got this in Olympic Pearl and it’s beautiful… should I keep 9’s on there or put 10’s on? I’m thinking of keeping the 9’s because maybe there’s a reason Fender out them on there from the Factory?
I just purchased a HSS players plus strat in cosmic green. I paid $1299 CDN new for it ( they have now gone up in price to $1449!). I dont tend to fixate too much on where the guitar is built, one of my fave guitars in my collection is actually a Squier Classic Vibe starcaster. I'm more concerned about how it feels and how I connect with it. I think you're right on the money with this review. The neck is nice and the rolled edges make it quite comfortable. I also personally like the pickups quite a bit. Everything is getting more expensive right now so its not just with Fender or with guitars, people need to realize this. Trying to find one slightly used is always a great option as well.
I don't care that it's made in Mexico either, I only bring it up because of the amount of MIM guitars that are as much if not more than a lot of the Made in Japan guitars from Fender that are noticeably inferiorly made instruments. This guitar is honestly pretty good, I would have said I hated it if I did which I have done in the past with guitars I did not like. I think it would be best for anyone interested to try to pick one of these up as a b-stock or used for a bit less, it would be easier for me to justify at that point. thanks for the comment!
Really Nice Video Demonstration, really thinking of buying one used For $700. Locally in like new Condition BTW... Two Reason Id Like to Purchase it , is I Love Fender Guitars, and second the Color is Beautiful, It will match my two Ibanez Guitars I already Own the ''IBANEZ AZ242F / Tequila Sunrise'' , and the Ibanez RG420HPFM RG High Performance Autumn Leaf .... Should all look so cool together & almost Identical in Color. I do Like the Fender Noiseless Pickups also btw they do sound pretty good....
New in box PP Strat on sale $999 plus tax at GC Nov 2023. I got it for less than $999 out the door with further discount. Played great out of the box. I like the 12" radius and slightly wider nut. Smooth box saddles. Well worth it. I actually sold my American Ultra after getting this.
Love to hear that! The neck was surprisingly good on this guitar indeed, awesome feel to it. Really happy you got one that didn't need any work out of the box on it, sounds like you got a keeper
These Player Plus Strats and Vintera models are at a price point where as stated you could pick up a decent American Standard second hand . You may want the vintage features of the Vintera or the Noiseless pickups which I like so they will suit some people and for me the older MIM Standard Strats are better than the Player ones so you really have to go up the range to get something worthwhile that will retain value . I played a Classic Vibe 70s Strat recently and putting in a decent 5 way switch would make this better than a Player model . Too many choices but go try them all !!
I actually agree with both of your points, the used AM std pricing makes this guitar really a hard sell... then your second one I also believe an electronics upgrade specifically the 5 way, pots, and switch, and the CV becomes a much more reasonable alternative that somehow has better QC in my experience.
One feature you didn't touch or comment on is the trem. Is it a push in or screw in? Nothing worse than screw in trem that tightens up in the wrong playing position. Block saddles or bent steel ? The latter can be uncomfortably sharp when palm muting. Is this trem stable? Does it float? I'm sure the locking tuners help. Your thoughts please.
I still have my USA standard, thankfully i bought it new many years ago before todays crazy prices. The only upgrade it needed was locking tuners. and it didn't need a fret polish! Fender have way overpriced these guitars, and not to include a hard case at these prices is just plain mean. Needless to say, i won't be buying one. I agree with Jim, find a well cared for USA Standard, you can upgrade the pickups and tuners and still have a lot of money to spare. Thanks for your honest review Jim.🙂
The thing is Allan, I can see the market catching up to this. I don't think we'll be finding these American standards at these prices much longer but for people like you and me, we have what we need so it isn't really a big deal. I just try to give people who may not have said resources already an honest opinion on these kinds of things
@@AudiomoMusic We have been lucky to buy some of the best guitars at sensible prices. I feel sorry for today's new buyers trying to buy better guitars, but unable to pay over $1000 just to get one.
Just picked up a used Ultra strat for a great price, I'll let you know how I like it once it comes in. As for the Mexican variants, they look really nice and I have heard nothing but good things. I especially like the new cosmic jade models, they remind me of the crazy lowriders we'd see as kids in California :) The price increases over the last few years are ridiculous, but what do we expect manufacturers to do when we're buying up all their guitars before they ever hit the shelves?
The neck on those are crazy nice, I've seen Dave's Guitar have them in recently for 1399 and i'm not going to lie if I didn't have the JV strat I would have probably jumped on it. Which finish did you end up picking?
@@AudiomoMusic Wow, 1399 is a great price. I went with the cobra blue. Heard it's really nice in person, now I just need UPS to get it here. Pretty stoked!
@@AudiomoMusic So after a couple days playing, I can honestly say that the Fender Ultra strat is a great guitar. The pickups took a bit to grow on me (been a humbucker guy my whole life), but now I'm really digging the tones. Not really missing much between the noiseless and regular single coils, except the hum, especially in a band context which is what I bought this for. Went with the cobra blue SSS. Fantastic guitar, highly recommended!
Well.... besides all other differences between an American Standard and this one, where I live, there's no chance in hell you could find a used one for 200 less than this Player Plus. I've rarely found one under 1000 euro's and then they're mostly the wrong colour (for me) or damaged... a great one that's been taken care of, looks fine and has a great colour is priced between 1000 and 1200 euro's easily. I can imagine this being very different in the US of course.
Picked one of these up for $770 new. Got the belair blue HSS. Should be in tomorrow but I loved the one they had in the store, I just don’t like paying new price for a guitar they keep on the shelves for everyone to play :)
That color is killer man, and I agree with you - i'd much rather just have one that is fresh out of the box than a wall art that has been through the trenches haha
@@greg6162 I kept them on. The only thing I had to do was adjust the action because it was so high it was unplayable for anything other than chords. Personally I’ve never changed the strings on electrics only acoustics.
I think it was Kenny Wayne Shepherd who says that you can show up to a gig with a $120 Squire Affinity Strat -- like Hubert Sumlin, Howlin' Wolf's legendary guitar player used to do -- and KILL it as long as you spend the bucks on a primo amplifier. Like that Mesa Boogie Rectoverb 25. Plus have good playing technique, of course. ;-)
I'd tend to agree, so long as the guitar is stable tuning wise and fully functional, the tone is mostly in the hands, but the amp does more work than the guitar.
Just bought one for 925€. Reason for me: I hate the classical Strat bridge, this one is fantastic, than noiseless PUs, locking tuners. I‘m fine with that baby! Great job, Fender!
I have this exact model in Olympic Pearl and Red tortoise. The tech at GC wants to put 10’s on it but it came with 9’s and I kinda want to keep it that way. Was talking to him about getting it setup and he was acting almost offended I didn’t want to keep 9’s on them, as a new player I don’t know, maybe he’s right. Would 10’s be better or is there a reason Fender put 9’s on them stock from the factory?
The difference between 9's and 10's isn't that big of a deal, especially if you're playing in standard tuning. The main reason I use 10's on a strat is because I play it a half step down to eB instead of E standard. There's no reason the guy should have made such a fuss out of it though, 9's are fine.
I'm happy with my American Standard Stratocaster that I added locking tuners to, it's the perfect guitar for me so I'm not craving this Player Plus. I've got noiseless pickups in another Strat but seldom play it, don't want a 12" radius, an awkward push-pull knob, flimsy bag or steep price. I'm getting the impression that these guitar companies are gradually trying to edge up the prices on their imports to reach the price levels of their USA models from only a few years ago, meanwhile doubling the prices on their current USA models. In fact they have done just that with my 10 year old Am. Stand., and my Gibson SG Standard now has an corresponding Epiphone SG for the price I paid for the Gibson.
American Standard is still the best value in the market for Fender guitars. They made so many of them that the prices to this point used have remained somewhat stable, and they just have better overall consistency than the modern Fenders in this same price range that are now imports.
I think the reason they dont have the push push is because they need to keep it below the more expensive models with that, if it is half the price and has everything the more expensive models have no one will buy the ultra etc
I work at a music store. We recieved a Player Plus Strat with no tremolo bar, no bridge spring, sprouted frets and gouges in the back. We have no choice but to discount it. Huge, huge fail.
If the PRS SE Silver Sky sounds close enough to the Core Silver Sky I can see Fender rethinking their prices or changing their bodies to Poplar/Basswood/Mahogany/Ash (not Swamp Ash) to cut prices to compete with PRS. Never wanted a Silver Sky, but I feel on the 11th my mind will be changed.
FYI I used a borrowed partscaster on a recent session. The body was white pine. It had to be one of the Top 5 guitars I’ve ever used in my life. Super resonant.
@@thomaslthomas1506 Ah yes pine how could I forget. My CV Telecaster is made of pine and light as a feather. I wonder if it's as accessible and abundant as the other woods are. Definitely put pine at the top of the list. Edit: My main couch guitars are a bullet strat and an esp ec-10. Poplar and basswood with a composite fretboard on the esp and I love it LOL.
Fender uses poplar on squiers, basswood and mahogany on MIJ, it's really about about the whole package. I'm not of a believe that one tonewood is "superior" to any other one, it all depends on the guitar it's being used to constuct, the style you want it to play, etc. I echo Thomas' statement to a different wood, I played a guitar made of Bubinga once that I thought I would have zero interest in, but it was really, really good. Never judge a guitar on the spec sheet!
@@j.a.s.1416 pine is one of the cheapest tone woods, particularly white pine which is known for large clear sections. And extreme wood stability after drying.
In practice yes this works, but it's literally not even a dollar difference from a distributor when buying in bulk between a push/push or push/pull, and they already use push push in other production guitars. I'm not keeping it but if I was going to I would just not use that feature honestly
No offense ... but when squier went to Mexico i had a Tele and strat to play with. No more Mexican made guitars, especially a 1100.00 one? And to think i was upset paying like 200.00 each.
For me, this more like a $500 used guitar at best. Bought one used for $750 that was mint a month after these came out, luckily was able to sell it the next day for $780. I hate heavy strats and I hate locking tuners.... those dumbass locking tuners add almost a pound. 12" radius, also sucks. I'm a Fender fan boy, but this one leaves EVERYTHING to be desired for me.
I remember pretty much this exact guitar ( the previous model before the players ) constantly being on the "Deal of the Day" from musicians friend for under $600 and I thought that price was fair. Also had a 12 inch radius, locking tuners, and noiseless pickups. That price seems much more appropriate for me as well.
It almost seems like a more affordable version of the ultra strat. Honesty it just seems hard to justify the price point.. you can buy a Japanese fender strat for less than a $1000 all day. (Even with rising prices) But I think this is targeting a more “modern” audience with the 12” radius, noiseless pickups and two point trem. Great video! Keep up the work
Well the prices of most guitars in general are ridiculous right now...especially when you consider what you are really getting...and the fact that it costs Fender about $150 bucks to make a guitar they are asking you to pay $1100 for. Most models are at least $300 more than what they were asking just five years ago.
That's the craziest thing, american standards which are now american professionals were a grand for the longest time, now they are close to two grand. It's just insane and eventually it kind of has to come back to reality especially given the other economic circumstances.
I would take a new Japanese Hybrid Strat or Traditional strat over these player pluses every single day of the week, and those are similarly priced new.
I picked up a hand-made 335 equiv NEW...for $1100 last year....my Eastman T486 and its an extraordinary guitar in every way...unlike a Mex or even a USA Strat...as good as they are...they are not unique nor extraordinary. Having said that....nice playing and nice sounding guitar.... BUT....a $600 G&L ASAT Tribute would handle it's own against that Strat.
Yep you know I love Eastman too!!! I really love the Japanese 335 ive gotten in that was also less than this guitar and miles better than what I typically get from the big brands at this price. It wont be too long before both these brands rocket in value the more people figure them out we got very lucky 🤩
I just bought a the same guitar (in olympic pearl finish). Really dissapointed in the fret work. Impossible to set up without getting fret buzz. I am now in the process of leveling and crowning the frets ... For a $1100 instrument this is unacceptable. I will never buy a fender from the mexican factory again...
$1100 for a Mexican Strat! no way is it worth it. There are better and cheaper options for far less than Fenders overpriced ones. You must be paying $500 just for the Fender decal!
The Sire is about the same build quality and yes, substantially less. I was pretty disappointed with the QC on the Sire I had honestly, but the guitars outside of are easily a viable competitor to these and again, a fraction of the cost.
Whats even more terrible is even maple necked American Vintage and American Originals require the same thing. They do no fret dressing from factory produced guitars, that starts at the custom shop.
It's all opinion based of course, but I think these are bullshit and overpriced. To me there are no improvements on these in comparison to the regular Player Series and we don't need to replace or upgrade anything on those as well. I do understand that the Plus series features stuff that some people consider upgrades and for them I say cool, go get one :) The only reason I would buy one of these is the for great colors, but I would personally rather just have a Dakota Red Strat instead :)
I agree with you that I wouldn't buy it for this price. If it were half the price new I would consider it, but you can get just flat out better guitars for the same money at this point without much effort.
@@AudiomoMusic Yeah I would even say that the PRS SE Standard model for almost half the price here in Sweden is a better quality guitar. You can get LTDs, Squiers, Epiphones and Fenders for less and the quality would be equal or better. If one absolutely want this then I won't have anything against them buying it, but I'm disappointed as I would be interested in one if it would have been cheaper OR the price would match what we actually got. I simply won't buy a 1000 dollar guitar made out of poplar and standard specs.
We agree, but I at least kind of get who they were trying to sell this guitar to after playing it. Before that I really was just scratching my head about it
As an old guitarist and avid "FENDER" lover - more than 50 years old - Fender guitar and amp. Allow me to say and ask - who is this "BRILLIANT" PERSON with a big brain who planned this "pull-push" stupidity? Someone who has evidently never played or picked up a guitarin hand. Totally inconvenient, and after 5-6 times you do it, the KNOBS are left in your hand - IT'S NOT PUSH -PULL!!! The only solution is to add a Telecaster knob. But, is such a mistake possible? What a disappointment dear Fender...😡😡😡😡😡
Push-Push >>>>>>>>>>> Push-Pull
Always
Whoever disagrees, lies :P
THANK YOU, i have pinned this
@@AudiomoMusic Ahahaha, too kind.
But I must admit that once I tried the Push-Push pots I never really understood WHY the companies kept on using the Push-Pull
Really, is beyond me
It's pretty easy to change it to a push-push button, or not expensive at your local shop.
Would be pretty confusing on a door though...
I was going to say the opposite. I think they add weird treble frequency
Bought this exact axe a few months ago. Plays and sounds great. No complaints...
Great comprehensive review the colouring of the guitar is amazing. Agree on the standard, I think if your a professional guitarist or can afford these as a hobby go for it
What an excellent review. Thanks for posting. Just subscribed.
Thanks Rick for taking the time to leave a comment, glad you enjoyed it!
This was a really good review. If someone is in the market this is a great video to watch. The weight surprised me!
More than the damn non weight relieved les Paul!!!!!!!
Great points. Thanks.
Fender “soft touch” knobs, available in that same color only, will help with the push / pull grip. They have a rubber knurling and came out in 2016 on the Elite American Strats. $10.99 with free shipping from AMS, aka: American Musical Supply. Best price around and a have great feel. They make a Fender 25 cent knob feel like at minimum a 50 cent knob.
yeah, my main guitar for the last year and a half has been a player plus olympic white left-handed. I may be biased being left-handed cause there are not many options, but it is well worth the money to me. For what it's worth, the noiseless pickups are really good. the only thing that would really make this guitar a must-have would be a roasted maple neck and jumbo frets like a charvel or shecter.
Great review and playing. Subbed.
Much appreciated!
I’ve had a player plus for 5 months new for £830. Very good guitar, feels good to play, sounds good. It had no problems out the box. I would definitely look at some PRS’ and other brands in the same price range though.
I just bought one . Got kill deal open box for $725 . I just don’t like the bridge pickup . I’m going to change that out for a stack humbucker . Great guitar play flawless
A great honest review. The price is definitely the issue, as is the weight. The American standard range was excellent so finding a used one cheaper is definitely a great way to go. But like you say, a used one of those at a lower price (or back in the days of the old deluxe prices) may be great for some folk down the line. Looks fantastic though- though I’m not a fan of the noiseless pickups yet tbh- they’ve got better each iteration but especially bridge position I struggle with the sound (but that’s just me and others may love it!)
I think they've improved with the overall quality of MIM, but the biggest problem with fender mexico is the fact they are priced where I can easily get Fender Japan, which imho crushes them to the point where I laugh playing them back to back. In the USA, Fender Japan for most people is not available, or on Reverb they are outrageously overpriced so I can understand why some would go for this alternative.
@@AudiomoMusic that makes a lot of sense, and maybe market-awareness and people not waiting for the right Japanese one to come along is what they are banking on? The good news is though it seems a good, gig worthy guitar that people will enjoy, just a shame its not a little lighter in weight and price but I guess if people buy them up they do well and if not they will be in the discount section at the price they probably should have been anyway and will be seen as good deals so i guess Fender win(ish) in a way either way!
but like you, I'd go a Japanese one any day, I do miss my old Japanese Jag I sold years ago but still these seem like another good option for guitarists so thats a win :)
Unfortunately, that’s the reality today everything is overpriced.
@@johnpise1723 agreed, every market is overpriced but this is my first “quality” guitar. This replacing my $169 Epiphone Les Paul special ii and I think the fretboard’s are both 12.5” so I don’t know how much better this will be on my Roland Micro cube GX solid state amp? Curious to find out because I just learned the Santeria solo and I’ve been playing about 3-6/months with only about 12 long sessions when I have time. CZcams makes it easier to learn riffs and such. I played for two months at 16 in 1996 and quit playing when I got a GF Lol. Tabs were amazing back then but CZcams is next level making it easier to get better if you put the time instead of noodling, which I do more of that then I should. I have better accuracy and speed for someone with my similar skill because of mindless noodling
Got this in Olympic Pearl for $200 off. The rolled fretboard edges make it worth the premium over the Player Strat...easily.
I just picked one up last week and I 100% agree, easily one of the best playing strats I have ever had including my American ones. I have now decided I'm going m.i.m from now on
I LOVE the Olympic Pearl and as a new player I just had to buy this based on looks alone. This will be my second guitar… replacing the $170 Epiphone Les Paul special 2. I think the Epiphone is a great guitar for what I paid (besides the auxiliary port coming loose) and I’m curious how much different it will play because they have the same 12.5” fretboard size I think. I play on a Roland Micro cube GX so not sure how noiseless coils do on a solid state mini 3w amp?
Wow very nice review. I actually bought this at full retail and could not be happier the finish is fantastic. I think the Mexican bodies and necks are every bit as good as the American made. It is heavy and I think that is due to the alder body which I prefer over some of the other bodies they are making.
I am with you on the new pull switch it is very difficult to pull that with a tapered knob on the fly I would prefer the push type as you suggested I have that one on my other fender Strats and I like it. I didn’t find the fret finish a problem at all and the non-tapered neck is not a problem for me. That brings me to the gig bag, like you I don’t like those so I ordered A gator hardshell case, and for 130 bucks it is fantastic. The only thing I was worried about coming from Mexico were the pick ups. my last Mexican made
again fantastic body and neck but the pick ups were lacking. This time I found the pick ups to be really really good the bridge pick up seemed a bit tinney to me but I rolled off a little trouble and it is fine so I think I’ll keep those pick ups in there. I also like the quick change tuners. All in all you and Iagree on a lot of the features except for the cost which I
did not mind looking at other options out there.
I think it's a good guitar and the mexican Fenders have come a LONG way. I really wish they would add in the push/push pot I would use that so much more if it were stock.
Believe it or not, the tuners being the big old locking style absolutely contribute to the weight compared to the regular style non locking or vintage locking ones. It's the little things, but they all add up. I'm really happy you love your guitar! Which finish did you pick?
@@AudiomoMusicI got this in Olympic Pearl and it’s beautiful… should I keep 9’s on there or put 10’s on? I’m thinking of keeping the 9’s because maybe there’s a reason Fender out them on there from the Factory?
Thanks for sharing 🙏🙏🙏
I just purchased a HSS players plus strat in cosmic green. I paid $1299 CDN new for it ( they have now gone up in price to $1449!). I dont tend to fixate too much on where the guitar is built, one of my fave guitars in my collection is actually a Squier Classic Vibe starcaster. I'm more concerned about how it feels and how I connect with it. I think you're right on the money with this review. The neck is nice and the rolled edges make it quite comfortable. I also personally like the pickups quite a bit. Everything is getting more expensive right now so its not just with Fender or with guitars, people need to realize this. Trying to find one slightly used is always a great option as well.
I don't care that it's made in Mexico either, I only bring it up because of the amount of MIM guitars that are as much if not more than a lot of the Made in Japan guitars from Fender that are noticeably inferiorly made instruments. This guitar is honestly pretty good, I would have said I hated it if I did which I have done in the past with guitars I did not like. I think it would be best for anyone interested to try to pick one of these up as a b-stock or used for a bit less, it would be easier for me to justify at that point. thanks for the comment!
I hear you the prices are going crazy, they're over $1500 now at L&M. Kinda makes me sick
Really Nice Video Demonstration, really thinking of buying one used For $700. Locally in like new Condition BTW...
Two Reason Id Like to Purchase it , is I Love Fender Guitars, and second the Color is Beautiful, It will match my two Ibanez Guitars I already Own the ''IBANEZ AZ242F / Tequila Sunrise'' , and the Ibanez RG420HPFM RG High Performance Autumn Leaf .... Should all look so cool together & almost Identical in Color.
I do Like the Fender Noiseless Pickups also btw they do sound pretty good....
Nice playing!
Thanks a lot!
I love the look of it. The only fender I've ever considered at all.
That's the thing, it's really good looking but man... that's a lot of money especially since I'd still never take it over a modern MIJ fender.
@@AudiomoMusic Yea. I'm too conscious of my money to buy it.
New in box PP Strat on sale $999 plus tax at GC Nov 2023. I got it for less than $999 out the door with further discount. Played great out of the box. I like the 12" radius and slightly wider nut. Smooth box saddles. Well worth it. I actually sold my American Ultra after getting this.
Love to hear that! The neck was surprisingly good on this guitar indeed, awesome feel to it. Really happy you got one that didn't need any work out of the box on it, sounds like you got a keeper
These Player Plus Strats and Vintera models are at a price point where as stated you could pick up a decent American Standard second hand . You may want the vintage features of the Vintera or the Noiseless pickups which I like so they will suit some people and for me the older MIM Standard Strats are better than the Player ones so you really have to go up the range to get something worthwhile that will retain value . I played a Classic Vibe 70s Strat recently and putting in a decent 5 way switch would make this better than a Player model . Too many choices but go try them all !!
I actually agree with both of your points, the used AM std pricing makes this guitar really a hard sell... then your second one I also believe an electronics upgrade specifically the 5 way, pots, and switch, and the CV becomes a much more reasonable alternative that somehow has better QC in my experience.
One feature you didn't touch or comment on is the trem. Is it a push in or screw in? Nothing worse than screw in trem that tightens up in the wrong playing position. Block saddles or bent steel ? The latter can be uncomfortably sharp when palm muting. Is this trem stable? Does it float? I'm sure the locking tuners help. Your thoughts please.
I still have my USA standard, thankfully i bought it new many years ago before
todays crazy prices.
The only upgrade it needed was locking tuners. and it didn't need a fret polish!
Fender have way overpriced these guitars, and not to include a hard case at these
prices is just plain mean.
Needless to say, i won't be buying one.
I agree with Jim, find a well cared for USA Standard, you can upgrade the pickups
and tuners and still have a lot of money to spare.
Thanks for your honest review Jim.🙂
The thing is Allan, I can see the market catching up to this. I don't think we'll be finding these American standards at these prices much longer but for people like you and me, we have what we need so it isn't really a big deal. I just try to give people who may not have said resources already an honest opinion on these kinds of things
@@AudiomoMusic We have been lucky to buy some of the best guitars at sensible prices.
I feel sorry for today's new buyers trying to buy better guitars, but unable to pay over $1000 just to get one.
Just picked up a used Ultra strat for a great price, I'll let you know how I like it once it comes in. As for the Mexican variants, they look really nice and I have heard nothing but good things. I especially like the new cosmic jade models, they remind me of the crazy lowriders we'd see as kids in California :)
The price increases over the last few years are ridiculous, but what do we expect manufacturers to do when we're buying up all their guitars before they ever hit the shelves?
The neck on those are crazy nice, I've seen Dave's Guitar have them in recently for 1399 and i'm not going to lie if I didn't have the JV strat I would have probably jumped on it. Which finish did you end up picking?
@@AudiomoMusic Wow, 1399 is a great price. I went with the cobra blue. Heard it's really nice in person, now I just need UPS to get it here. Pretty stoked!
@@AudiomoMusic So after a couple days playing, I can honestly say that the Fender Ultra strat is a great guitar. The pickups took a bit to grow on me (been a humbucker guy my whole life), but now I'm really digging the tones. Not really missing much between the noiseless and regular single coils, except the hum, especially in a band context which is what I bought this for. Went with the cobra blue SSS. Fantastic guitar, highly recommended!
Well.... besides all other differences between an American Standard and this one, where I live, there's no chance in hell you could find a used one for 200 less than this Player Plus. I've rarely found one under 1000 euro's and then they're mostly the wrong colour (for me) or damaged... a great one that's been taken care of, looks fine and has a great colour is priced between 1000 and 1200 euro's easily. I can imagine this being very different in the US of course.
Does the maple fretboard have a gloss finish on it? Or is it the same satin finish as the back of the neck?
It definitely has a finish on it, that's why there was residue on the frets. It feels pretty good, but it's definitely there
Picked one of these up for $770 new. Got the belair blue HSS. Should be in tomorrow but I loved the one they had in the store, I just don’t like paying new price for a guitar they keep on the shelves for everyone to play :)
That color is killer man, and I agree with you - i'd much rather just have one that is fresh out of the box than a wall art that has been through the trenches haha
how were you able to get it at such a low price brand new?
Should I keep the factory 9’s on these or 10’s… also is there a reason Fender puts 9’s on them factory stock?
@@greg6162 I kept them on. The only thing I had to do was adjust the action because it was so high it was unplayable for anything other than chords. Personally I’ve never changed the strings on electrics only acoustics.
I think it was Kenny Wayne Shepherd who says that you can show up to a gig with a $120 Squire Affinity Strat -- like Hubert Sumlin, Howlin' Wolf's legendary guitar player used to do -- and KILL it as long as you spend the bucks on a primo amplifier. Like that Mesa Boogie Rectoverb 25. Plus have good playing technique, of course. ;-)
I'd tend to agree, so long as the guitar is stable tuning wise and fully functional, the tone is mostly in the hands, but the amp does more work than the guitar.
Just bought one for 925€. Reason for me: I hate the classical Strat bridge, this one is fantastic, than noiseless PUs, locking tuners. I‘m fine with that baby! Great job, Fender!
That's a pretty good price! Doesn't really need anything modified either, congrats!
Did you keep the 9’s on there? I love mine in the pearl/tortoise color and the pups sound great
Hell yes it's worth the $1100 price.
I have this exact model in Olympic Pearl and Red tortoise. The tech at GC wants to put 10’s on it but it came with 9’s and I kinda want to keep it that way. Was talking to him about getting it setup and he was acting almost offended I didn’t want to keep 9’s on them, as a new player I don’t know, maybe he’s right. Would 10’s be better or is there a reason Fender put 9’s on them stock from the factory?
The difference between 9's and 10's isn't that big of a deal, especially if you're playing in standard tuning. The main reason I use 10's on a strat is because I play it a half step down to eB instead of E standard. There's no reason the guy should have made such a fuss out of it though, 9's are fine.
I bought the plus for 830 euros, just 130 over the Player. The gig bag already makes up for part of that difference.
I'm happy with my American Standard Stratocaster that I added locking tuners to, it's the perfect guitar for me so I'm not craving this Player Plus. I've got noiseless pickups in another Strat but seldom play it, don't want a 12" radius, an awkward push-pull knob, flimsy bag or steep price. I'm getting the impression that these guitar companies are gradually trying to edge up the prices on their imports to reach the price levels of their USA models from only a few years ago, meanwhile doubling the prices on their current USA models. In fact they have done just that with my 10 year old Am. Stand., and my Gibson SG Standard now has an corresponding Epiphone SG for the price I paid for the Gibson.
American Standard is still the best value in the market for Fender guitars. They made so many of them that the prices to this point used have remained somewhat stable, and they just have better overall consistency than the modern Fenders in this same price range that are now imports.
I think the reason they dont have the push push is because they need to keep it below the more expensive models with that, if it is half the price and has everything the more expensive models have no one will buy the ultra etc
Yeah I can see that, but really it's such an insignificant cost difference I just wish they'd do it. Every penny counts I suppose!
I work at a music store. We recieved a Player Plus Strat with no tremolo bar, no bridge spring, sprouted frets and gouges in the back. We have no choice but to discount it. Huge, huge fail.
Push/Pull? I just replaced those tacky knobs with knurled speed knobs, much better. I found a cream color that looks great on my Olympic Pearl model.
Hi, can you share a link?
If the PRS SE Silver Sky sounds close enough to the Core Silver Sky I can see Fender rethinking their prices or changing their bodies to Poplar/Basswood/Mahogany/Ash (not Swamp Ash) to cut prices to compete with PRS. Never wanted a Silver Sky, but I feel on the 11th my mind will be changed.
FYI I used a borrowed partscaster on a recent session. The body was white pine. It had to be one of the Top 5 guitars I’ve ever used in my life. Super resonant.
@@thomaslthomas1506 Ah yes pine how could I forget. My CV Telecaster is made of pine and light as a feather. I wonder if it's as accessible and abundant as the other woods are. Definitely put pine at the top of the list. Edit: My main couch guitars are a bullet strat and an esp ec-10. Poplar and basswood with a composite fretboard on the esp and I love it LOL.
Fender uses poplar on squiers, basswood and mahogany on MIJ, it's really about about the whole package. I'm not of a believe that one tonewood is "superior" to any other one, it all depends on the guitar it's being used to constuct, the style you want it to play, etc. I echo Thomas' statement to a different wood, I played a guitar made of Bubinga once that I thought I would have zero interest in, but it was really, really good. Never judge a guitar on the spec sheet!
@@j.a.s.1416 pine is one of the cheapest tone woods, particularly white pine which is known for large clear sections. And extreme wood stability after drying.
Silver Sky SE has Squier specs at Fender MIM price.
Put tele knob on the push pull pot.
In practice yes this works, but it's literally not even a dollar difference from a distributor when buying in bulk between a push/push or push/pull, and they already use push push in other production guitars. I'm not keeping it but if I was going to I would just not use that feature honestly
Probably getting to the point now that a good secondhand US made strat is a better way to go.
100% agree. And cheaper.
Ha I was typing that just as you said it in your video.
I was thinking to myself, I definitely think I said that but I've made so many of these videos sometimes I lose track
do you know if the body is routed for hss or hsh? thanks
Hey Jordan it's routed for HSH
@@AudiomoMusic I appreciate the info. Great review, very informative!
Anytime, glad I could help!
No offense ... but when squier went to Mexico i had a Tele and strat to play with. No more Mexican made guitars, especially a 1100.00 one? And to think i was upset paying like 200.00 each.
You're not offending me, I don't own any Mexican Fenders.
For me, this more like a $500 used guitar at best. Bought one used for $750 that was mint a month after these came out, luckily was able to sell it the next day for $780. I hate heavy strats and I hate locking tuners.... those dumbass locking tuners add almost a pound. 12" radius, also sucks. I'm a Fender fan boy, but this one leaves EVERYTHING to be desired for me.
I remember pretty much this exact guitar ( the previous model before the players ) constantly being on the "Deal of the Day" from musicians friend for under $600 and I thought that price was fair. Also had a 12 inch radius, locking tuners, and noiseless pickups. That price seems much more appropriate for me as well.
Seems to me that you're the dumbass to have bought it and didn't do research 🙃 to each their own..
It almost seems like a more affordable version of the ultra strat. Honesty it just seems hard to justify the price point.. you can buy a Japanese fender strat for less than a $1000 all day. (Even with rising prices)
But I think this is targeting a more “modern” audience with the 12” radius, noiseless pickups and two point trem.
Great video! Keep up the work
You pretty much summed up my thoughts, it's like a cheaper Ultra but I'd still rather buy a MIJ with my money. Appreciate the encouragement!!
Well the prices of most guitars in general are ridiculous right now...especially when you consider what you are really getting...and the fact that it costs Fender about $150 bucks to make a guitar they are asking you to pay $1100 for. Most models are at least $300 more than what they were asking just five years ago.
That's the craziest thing, american standards which are now american professionals were a grand for the longest time, now they are close to two grand. It's just insane and eventually it kind of has to come back to reality especially given the other economic circumstances.
I picked one up for 899.00 from sweetwater
How is it compare to made in japan.
I would take a new Japanese Hybrid Strat or Traditional strat over these player pluses every single day of the week, and those are similarly priced new.
Is the bridge a Floyd rose?
Nope, modern 2 point trem
I really like the finish, but the weight and price would put me off buying one.
It's heavier than the damn Les Paul Standard!! I couldn't believe that haha
@@AudiomoMusic Makes no sense, why is it so heavy?
Did you sell this yet?
Yep, that one sold pretty much instantly
I bought it for the finish. And was happy to pay 1100. But that's me
Did you sell the guitar yet?
Yeah that sold within a day of listing
Fender modern C should be .840 1st fret and .890 12th fret
Thats what I was expecting, but my calipers tell no lies.
I picked up a hand-made 335 equiv NEW...for $1100 last year....my Eastman T486 and its an extraordinary guitar in every way...unlike a Mex or even a USA Strat...as good as they are...they are not unique nor extraordinary. Having said that....nice playing and nice sounding guitar.... BUT....a $600 G&L ASAT Tribute would handle it's own against that Strat.
Yep you know I love Eastman too!!! I really love the Japanese 335 ive gotten in that was also less than this guitar and miles better than what I typically get from the big brands at this price. It wont be too long before both these brands rocket in value the more people figure them out we got very lucky 🤩
@@AudiomoMusic hoping to land an Eastman T184MX this time tomorrow on the real cheap...as I too believe their value will catch up in years to come.
I just bought a the same guitar (in olympic pearl finish). Really dissapointed in the fret work. Impossible to set up without getting fret buzz. I am now in the process of leveling and crowning the frets ... For a $1100 instrument this is unacceptable. I will never buy a fender from the mexican factory again...
"A dead horse to death!"
Yep, I do this kind of thing constantly but I refuse to write a script for these videos so it's bound to happen 😅
$1100 for a Mexican Strat! no way is it worth it.
There are better and cheaper options for far less than Fenders overpriced ones.
You must be paying $500 just for the Fender decal!
$500 is about what I'd pay for any of the player tbh
The Sire S7 is better and cost less.
The Sire is about the same build quality and yes, substantially less. I was pretty disappointed with the QC on the Sire I had honestly, but the guitars outside of are easily a viable competitor to these and again, a fraction of the cost.
Lot of money for a block of wood.
Cheap compared to some places like PRS 🤣
A '57 Les Paul is also just a block of wood..... for 60,000 dollars 🙄
A grand and the frets need polished lmao that’s actually terrible
Whats even more terrible is even maple necked American Vintage and American Originals require the same thing. They do no fret dressing from factory produced guitars, that starts at the custom shop.
It's all opinion based of course, but I think these are bullshit and overpriced.
To me there are no improvements on these in comparison to the regular Player Series and we don't need to replace or upgrade anything on those as well.
I do understand that the Plus series features stuff that some people consider upgrades and for them I say cool, go get one :)
The only reason I would buy one of these is the for great colors, but I would personally rather just have a Dakota Red Strat instead :)
I agree with you that I wouldn't buy it for this price. If it were half the price new I would consider it, but you can get just flat out better guitars for the same money at this point without much effort.
@@AudiomoMusic Yeah I would even say that the PRS SE Standard model for almost half the price here in Sweden is a better quality guitar.
You can get LTDs, Squiers, Epiphones and Fenders for less and the quality would be equal or better.
If one absolutely want this then I won't have anything against them buying it, but I'm disappointed as I would be interested in one if it would have been cheaper OR the price would match what we actually got.
I simply won't buy a 1000 dollar guitar made out of poplar and standard specs.
Nope
100% no.
We agree, but I at least kind of get who they were trying to sell this guitar to after playing it. Before that I really was just scratching my head about it
Answer: No.
Pretty much.
As an old guitarist and avid "FENDER" lover - more than 50 years old - Fender guitar and amp. Allow me to say and ask - who is this "BRILLIANT" PERSON with a big brain who planned this "pull-push" stupidity? Someone who has evidently never played or picked up a guitarin hand. Totally inconvenient, and after 5-6 times you do it, the KNOBS are left in your hand - IT'S NOT PUSH -PULL!!! The only solution is to add a Telecaster knob. But, is such a mistake possible? What a disappointment dear Fender...😡😡😡😡😡
It’s not worth the money it’s overpriced!!!
Nope
I agree, I'd much rather have a Japanese Fender.