The 335 Style Shootout! | Firefly | Monoprice | Grote
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- čas přidán 27. 10. 2021
- In this 97th installment, Jimmy does a comparison video and attempts a “shootout” of the three 335 style guitars, including the Firebird Firefly FF338, the Monoprice Indio Boardwalk, and the Grote MT-35GT. You will get to see and hear the similarities along with the differences of each guitar, along with a mix of the three!
Great comparison and review! Keep 'em comin' Chief!!
Thanks so much….appreciate it! So glad you enjoyed it mjvicc1952!! 👍🎸
Thanks for another great video. Just got the mono boardwalk on Tuesday. I got the natural finish. I can't believe the quality of these guitars. This is my first monoprice. It came in great shape. No problems of that a slight tweak of the intonation on 2 strings. Frets were good although I did run a sanding sponge over the fret ends and its as good as my other guitars now. I plugged it in to my Bugera v22 and was amazed how good this thing sounds. I thought maybe I would have to change them out but not so. I'm very well satisfied. I seen your unboxing and just had to get one. You're costing me money brother, but I love it. Lol. Thanks again sir, well done!!
So glad you received your Boardwalk Spookshill Joe! Nice, right? 😎
Happy to hear that you are enjoying it….sorry for helping you spend the $$…🤣
You bought a nice instrument however, and congrats! Thanks so much for stopping in and commenting here. I appreciate it….👍🎸
Yet another great video, thanks for sharing! I love the variety of finishes from Firefly and that does it for me, but I have to say all 3 sounded great.
Thanks for watching and commenting This Guy!! Yeah, Firefly has been doing some great finishes on the 338 since the early days when I got mine. All 3 are very nice guitars for the $$ and would make nice additions to any player looking for a inexpensive way to add a 335 style to their arsenal! Thanks again, and appreciate your stopping in and support! 👍🎸
Nice, you made a realistic comparison with a nice grove, enjoyed listening - you got style!!!
Thank you so much for watching and commenting Concerned, Old and Wise Patriot! Glad you enjoyed and I really do appreciate your stopping in to the channel! Many thanks! 👍🎸
Hey Jimmy, I took the plunge and bought a Grote 335 Vintage Sunburst guitar. Had a broken high e string and a low volume knob, but I cleaned the fretboard (2 times), polished the frets, and changed out the strings. The guitar now looks very good and plays wonderfully! Oh, and I raised the knob. Thanks for all the videos that helped my purchase. I am amazed and love it very much.
That’s great Bob!! Sometimes it takes a little work, depending on “luck of the draw” as it is with most inexpensive guitars on line, but I have to say, so far the Grote’s I have bought and received have been very good! A cleaning, conditioning, new strings and setup and your golden! Glad to hear you took care of the minor issues with yours and are happy! Good luck with it, and keep on pickin’!! 👍🎸
SOAB! What a surprise! Amazed by the noodling; wow! Great stuff! 🤘
Hey there John…I will assume you enjoyed the video! 😎
Thanks so much for watching and commenting and I truly appreciate your stopping in to the channel and the kind comments! Hope you explore around the channel and we see more of you here! Much appreciated! 🎸👍
Great review the one thing I can say is that it seems like Monoprice is very consistent which makes me feel confident in buying them
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! I have a number of Monoprice guitars now, and I agree with you on that. I really appreciate your stopping in to the channel, and hope to see you more here!
Thanks again, and stay safe! 👍
Good comparison!Thank you! I will buy one of them soon so your review was excellent! You are also a very good guitar player! Cheers to you!😎
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Humberto! So glad you enjoyed it. Truly appreciate your stopping in to the channel and sharing your thoughts! 👍🎸
Thanks Jimmy. I have the Grote dark red and a gloss black FF338. Sounds like I may need the Boardwalk too! Have a good weekend.
Thanks for watching and commenting Man Club…
The Monoprice Indio Boardwalk is a very nice guitar…I think you would enjoy it! I believe they come in Trans Amber like mine, black, charcoal and Natural. Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 👍🎸
Awesome vid, Jimmy! Man, I love me some semi-hollow body guitars. On this one, I think the prettiest of them is the wine red Firefly. The shape and color. And the Grote sounds the best. Absolutely KILLER with those fat sounding P-90s. But as always, killer playing, and some great jams. This was a ton of fun!
Thanks so much Jimmy….all 3 are worthy additions to anyone looking for a nice, inexpensive semi-hollow 335 “style” to add to their arsenal!
Appreciate your stopping in and sharing your thoughts…. Thanks again….👍🎸
Another great in depth review Jimmy. Good job brother !!!
I appreciate that Craig…it was a difficult video to do, as the whole time I was preferring the guitar I was playing at the time…impossible to make a “this is the one” call…I like them all!!
Thanks so much for watching and commenting…👍
@@JimmyStewart1 yes I say the orange one with P-90s but I don't have a guitar with humbuckers yet
I am going to contact Monoprice and tell them to get me a Boardwalk with P90’s….
Let’s see how that goes…🤣
@@JimmyStewart1 I've got the IVY red quilted maple with the P-90s I've got the Monoprice Tele in that lite yellow or off white, and a strat copy I have done forgot who made that one lol and 2 banjos😂 Sawtooth made the strat copy
@@JimmyStewart1 I'm sure they are building for you now😎
Good comparison Jimmy. Thanks for taking the time for making such a thorough vid. I know you said you can’t pick a winner but it sounds like you prefer the sound of the Grote’s P90’s over the others. I’ve found that all other things being equal, the one that sounds the best is typically the one you end up picking up the most and glean inspiration from.
On to the thinline tele shootout! 👍
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Eric….yeah, I found this to be tough….seemed like to me, I was preferring the guitar I was playing at the time….😎
I will say, overall that I prefer the sound of P90’s to begin with, so the Grote had a bit of advantage with that, as the pups in it are very nice! That’s just me however, so all 3 guitars are great choices, and I know many that prefer humbuckers so….
Appreciate your stopping in and support…..👍🎸
thanks for this extensive comparison and reviews!
My pleasure Armando…thanks so much for stopping in to the channel and watching/commenting. Much appreciated! 🎸👍
Awesome shootout Jimmy! I really enjoyed it. I'm a big fan of the P90s also. Really loved the sound of the Grote guitar. They all definitely have their own unique sound. But I'm just a big fan of that fit and finish on the Monoprice Indio Boardwalk. That would be my favorite if I could only choose to have one of the three it would definitely be the Monoprice. Happy Thursday brother.
So glad you enjoyed it Danny….yes, they all have a different sound, and in that category, I have to go with the P90’s…like you however, love the finish and build of the Monoprice. Plus a very decent gig bag included! Firebird has come out with some very nice top finishes on the 338 as well, but their pricing keeps going higher….great deal back in 2019! 👍
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Truly appreciate it!
@@JimmyStewart1 you're very welcome Jimmy. And it was an awesome review. Probably the best one I've seen as far as shootouts go.
@@dannywilliams3516
Thanks so very much Danny…👍🙏
Fantastic review! Thanks for posting. 👍
Thanks so much!! Truly appreciate your stopping in to the channel and glad you enjoyed the video! 👍🎸
Don’t know how I missed this review, Jimmy. Very well done. Didn’t miss a beat. Thanks a lot!🎸 Hope you’re well?
Thanks for stopping in Dennis! Doing well, and hope you are too! Have not seen you on the channel recently, so good to see you here! Much appreciated and glad you enjoyed! 👍🎸
@@JimmyStewart1 I’m still here, Jimmy and I’ve been wondering about you -‘cause I hadn’t seen as many videos from you as I use to. I am a subscriber to your Channel -gee since late 2019 I believe. Lol-bought my Indio 338 ( and then some) because of you’re demo. Glad you’re doing well. I’ll keep a watch out for you here and in FB Groups.👍🎸
@@dennismullin3052
That’s weird…been doing them weekly as usual. Was on the road for a couple weeks in April, but was able to keep going. You missed this was as you state, and perhaps others for some reason. Check my channel page and catch up…🤣🤣
Seriously, thanks Dennis! Appreciate your being here! 🎸👍
Hey man, I don't text much, but I've been playing my new firefly LPS. I've had it 4 days and I love it. I'm sooo glad I got a really good one. When I play it unplugged I can feel the vibration in my lefthand even when picking individual notes. And the sustain is amazing. It weighs 9 lbs. It was 219 shipped to Myrtle Beach. Across the US. Took nine days. I'm glad we as older folks and new musicians can get a quality guitar for little money.
Hey Chuck…thanks so much for watching and commenting! Congrats on your new LP!! Enjoy it man!! I have a couple of their 1st batch LP’s from late 2019 early 2020. They are very good guitars for sure! Been a big fan of Firebird Music and Firefly guitars since early on! Lots of reviews here on the channel! Truly appreciate your stopping in and sharing your thoughts! 🎸👍
You are one great shopper ,and they all look like great fun
They are!! 😎
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! You really can’t go wrong with any of them! 👍🎸
Wow! Stick around for the loop shootout. I got the red Grote modded with humbucker sized p90s, locking tuners and the Musiclily roller bridge. Love it.
Hey…thanks so much for watching and commenting! Sounds like you got that Grote where you want it! Excellent! Truly appreciate your stopping in to the channel and thanks again for sharing your thoughts! 👍🎸
Great video Jimmy! I have 2 of the 3 and I love both of them! All sound great! I do have to say that I am not an expert, but all of my monoprice have sounded great! I had a guy who installed my TV brackets check them out as he is in a band and he couldn't believe how good they sounded at the lower price point! He loved my Grote as well! Thanks for doing these videos and keep them coming! On another note, I just bought an Orangewood acoustic (Oliver live mahogany) as well. Collection is growing! LOL
Thanks so much Reggie…appreciate the kind words. Hard to choose any one over the other…all 3 are nice guitars and worthy considerations for anyone looking to add a nice, inexpensive 335 style guitar to their collection! Always appreciate your stopping in Reg….thanks again 👍🎸
ps…good luck, and congrats on your new Orangewood acoustic as well…enjoy! 👍🎸
Super cool, Reggie. Sounds like you and I have the same disease. LOL In fact, I think everyone in this room has it. Oh well. It's a GREAT hobby, or passion for most of us. I'm also like you, in that I thought all 3 of them sounded great. LOVE the (2) Firefly FF338s I've got. And I really like the looks of that dark green matte finish Grote with the P-90s. On my watch-list !
@@jimmyz2098 thanks bro, I wish I would have gotten into guitar sooner! I played trumpet and a little piano. I love these guitars that Jimmy reviews! It's a great hobby!
Thank you both!! 🙏
Great vid Jimmy. I have the same Grote but with humbuckets instead of the P90s. I’ve had it for almost a year and so far haven’t played it much. The only mods I have made is a string change. Mostly play acoustic, but need to plug this one in more to see what/ if I need to make any changes.
Hi Ryan…thanks for watching and commenting. I would pick a day and tell the Grote it’s THEIR DAY! 😎 That’s what I do when there are so many guitars wanting my attention! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍
Great demo Jimmy , enjoyed it. I'm partial to the P90's also , they sound great! Maybe down the road you can do an SG battle , take care...
Thanks Mike G….so happy to hear you enjoyed it! The P90’s on the Grote are surprisingly good! Will see about a possible SG shootout…😎
Thanks again for stopping in….much appreciated! 👍🎸
It does my heart good to have a review from real guitar player😃.
Hi Ricky…thanks so very much for watching and commenting. It does my heart good to read this…truly appreciate it! 🙏👍
Great video Jimmy. Thank you for taking the time to do this. It is hard to choose just one. For me I would choose Billy Bob just because I don't own a guitar with P-90's. After that I would choose the Boardwalk. It sounded better than the Firefly to me. Sadly as you said it's hard to find the P-90 Grote. With that being said, I really like the IYV ITF-400 PRS Tele that you did a demo of a week ago. Hope to see a video shootout on the Tele's. I have feeling that no matter what I'll choose the IYV ITF-400 PRS Tele. It has been calling my name since last week. I may have to watch the tele demo a few times when/if you put it out & force myself to not watch it with a biased opinion. Anyway enough of my rambling. Keep up the great work & have a great weekend!
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Tim…These types of videos are hard for me… I like them all…but in the end, it’s the “sound” you are going for, and for me it is usually a P90. The Thinline shootout is coming soon….I want to get the IYV ITF-400 setup first to make it fair…😎
As always, I really appreciate you stopping in and the support for what I try to do here on the channel….thanks so much! 👍🎸
@@JimmyStewart1 No worries Jimmy. I like that you take your time & do it right to make fair comparisons. I'm not going to order another guitar for at least a month. Knowing my luck the IYV will be sold out. I did find a P90 Billy Bob on Amazon today, but I need to take a little break on buying gear...
Jimmy enjoyed video a lot. I too like the P90 sound, but all have their own and unique sounds. That is what makes it so interesting and incredible regarding each individual instrument we touch. I have a Harley Benton HB-35 full size vintage series and the smaller and lighter Epiphone Casino Coupe with P90"s. Both great in their own unique way. 👌 Enjoy. Gary
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Gary! I agree, each has their own sound. Enjoy that HB and Casino….and thanks again for stopping in to the channel and sharing your thoughts! Much appreciated! 👍🎸
After saying to myself "no guitar buying for a while"... In the next breath
I ordered a red Grote semi hollow from Amazon, It should be delivered Sunday. I also traded my Squire Affinity Telecaster straight across for an Epiphone casino in warn ebony and P90'S. Your channel convinced me to give P90'S a try. The Casino is fantastic!!!
Ha ha!! Very nice Ray!! Congrats on your Grote and of course your Casino too!! Nice trade and I bet the P90’s in that Casino have also helped you “see the light” 😎
Truly appreciate your stopping in and sharing! Much thanks and welcome to the “good side” 🎸👍
I'm with you: love the sound of P90s in a semi-hollow guitar. Just ordered a Grote just like yours!
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Alan!
Congrats and enjoy it! Be sure to stop back and let me know what you think once you receive it! I think you may be a bit surprised by just how nice this Grote model is! Really appreciate your stopping in to the channel and sharing! Keep pickin’ 👍🎸
Jimmy, do you have measurements of the NUT width on each.. could be my eyes but the firefly looks to be 1 5/8 nut width while the other 2 look to be 1 11/16th. However, the indio had the look of a WIDE fret board and nut, perhaps the 1.75 width.. just curious as that can affect playiblility if the nut is narrow like late 60's Gibsons.. ?
Thanks for watching and commenting BJ…not in the studio at the moment, but will give them a measure for you once I get back. Thanks for stopping in to the channel.
Much appreciated! 👍🎸
I agree with you the grote has a brighter sound not as nasally sounding as the other two. Of course I would own all three but in this comparison I like the way the grote sounds.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Ray. Appreciate your stopping in and sharing your thoughts! 🎸👍
I've been a guitar channel junkie for years, but only found this channel yesterday, and loving it - liked, subscribed, rang da bell...!
I've got an EART ES-335 coming this week, and a Grote with P-90's coming next week (like yours, except w/open-pore mahogany body).
P-90 pickups are my favorite, but the humbuckers in the EART sound really good, and for slide they work well, being fatter and more middy. The natural wood open pore finish feels nicer than a shiny poly finish, especially on the neck. The next guitar I want is the ES-125T or Epiphone Century style, like you have: thin, no cutaway, fully hollow, one P-90. Jack Pearson got an old Gibson ES-125T, and it sounds so freaking good...there is something about P-90 pickups in hollow body guitars, especially thin hollow bodies with one pickup.
EDIT: Since I mentioned him, listen to Jack Pearson's genius playing on ES-125T! czcams.com/video/RIpdHi8m1oo/video.html
Wow!! Thanks so much for watching and commenting Phamer David! Glad you found us!! 😎
Hear good things on the Eart…let me know what ya think when you get it. I have been playing P90’s since the 70’s (along with other pups too) and they are still my fav to this day! I have a number of single P90 guitars and I love the simplicity. Nothing like it…
Thanks again for stopping in to the channel and hope you find it not only entertaining, but educational as well!! 👍
The Grote P-90,s are unreal. Great review. Thanks Jimmy!!
@@timfranklin550
Thanks so very much Tim…great pups on that Grote!! Really appreciate your stopping in and support! 👍🎸
Loads of fun, Jimmy!At those prices, why choose? Each one has its own charms and foibles, but they don't sound the same. All 3 are excellent buys. Speaking of which, I came very close to getting my semihollow body that is the equivalent of the IYV thinline in red you have. A Harley Benton TQ90M came up on marketplace, but I was too slow getting in touch. Maybe, the player trying it tonight doesn't like it. Fingers crossed!
Thanks ever so much….my fingers are 🤞for you on the HB…👍
Thank you, Mr. Stewart!
I don't play guitar but I loved that sound and the presentation in general was fierce. Since I want to own one more than I want to play one, I doubt that it will ever be amplified. The p90 sound was very cool, though. Do any of these models correlate to the Beatles' individual Casino respectives owned by Paul, John and George? Or, are those considered to fall under the 335 Style definition?
In either case, the ocean just got three times bigger.
Any help is appreciated.
Sincerely,
KC
Hi KC…thanks so much for watching and commenting! So glad to hear you enjoyed it! I would think that the Grote would be the best “matchup” to the Beatles “Casino’s” as they were all P90 equipped as well. Body design is close….though this is a matte finish. Lennon did remove the sunburst finish from his and went “all natural” so even more close is the Grote. Hope that helps a bit…truly appreciate your stopping in to the channel! Much thanks…🎸👍
Nice job Chief
Keep it up
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍
Love the reviews Jimmy. The Monoprice is said to have a 43mm nut width whereas the other two are said to have a 42mm nut width you didn't notice any difference in playability with the Monoprice?? Just curious as I narrow down my purchase options.
Hi CeeJay…thanks so much for watching and the kind comments…so glad to hear you are enjoying the channel. I can honestly say I don’t notice much difference, if any. It’s a mm in width…where I will normally “feel” a difference in necks is in the radius. For chording, I prefer a bit more rounded radius and for lead work, a bit flatter. Again, you are talking about 2 mm between a 12” radius and a 350mm standard Asian radius (13.778) or something close. Not a huge deal, at least for me. They feel quite similar in my hands. If you have larger hands (like I do) you kinda want a bit more room down by the nut. Again, YMMV…Appreciate your stopping into the channel. Any of these is a good choice, so type of finish, weight, body size and pickup configuration would be deciding factors based on personal preference more than the nut width in my opinion. Also of course, “Is it on sale”…😎
I'm looking to buy a 335 & I'd have to say that the Grote was my preferred guitar hands down. Really like the sound of the Grote.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Carlo…can’t go wrong with the Grote and congrats should you decide to buy one! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍
@@JimmyStewart1 😮
Nice playing Jimmy! Did I spot a dc with 3 p90’s? Another great review my friend 🙏🏼
Thanks so very much eearts…I think what you spotted in this was most likely my IYV “Red Special” BM (Brian May) copy…check out the full review here on the channel! 🎸👍
Jimmy, I already owned a couple of Indio guitars one of them their version of the Strat, the other a Jaguar/Strat OS, and they are very nice guitars. The Strat I got in baby blue looks gorgeous (I think Fender calls it Daphne colorwise), the Jag/Strat OS20 with an SSH setup is white with a black pickguard. Aside from the usual cleaning up of the fret ends with my angled sanding sponge, they came ready to rock right out of the box with no complaints. Indio also provides a superior padded gig bag which is nice compared to the cheap nylon ones that usually come with low end guitars. For the price we pay for these guitars, that’s a really nice touch.
I also finally got a Firefly 338 in a beautiful purple that gets lots of compliments. The Firefly’s seem to fly off the shelves when a new batch drops. Which reminds me, they just dropped a new batch of their FFLPS which is their version of the Les Paul. I was going to get one when I came across a 2015 Epiphone Les Paul Jr for $160. It has a split coil humbucker, and is a dark blue/green. Considering those came out at $439 or something, I couldn’t let it stay on the wall at $160, it felt illegal, so I bought that instead of a new Firefly FFLPS which was the plan.
As for the FF338, I love it. Gorgeous purple finish, the fret ends were actually nice, but I took the sanding sponge to them just to clean them up a tad. It has some growl to it. I would recommend it to people with the only drawback being that it doesn’t come with a gig bag. Come on man, if Monoprice can do it, Firefly can do it! One thing I like about the Firefly is that they seem to listen to the feedback from customers. My 338 had none of the flaws previous reviewers pointed out in reviews, in one the cut away where the neck meets the body was just poorly blended, and looked like crap. I made a specific point to check those things, and to my surprise, it was perfect.
I haven’t played a Grote so I have no opinion on them other than it sounded good when you were playing it, and it may be a brand I look at in the future as everyone knows you can’t have enough guitars, right? I know you can’t go wrong with Firefly, or the Indio (I was looking at the Goldentop Boardwalk, and the Goldentop DLX66 before I “rescued” that Epiphone Les Paul Jr from the music store. I believe that people would be pleased with any of these choices you did in the video. I love my FF338, and both of my Indio’s, you can’t go wrong with either brand. I’d probably jump on the Indio Boardwalk if I were to buy another hollow body simply for the quality padded gig bag that comes with it.
That’s it, thanks for the great video.
Thanks so much for watching and sharing your story. I certainly agree that you can’t go wrong with any of the 335 style guitars I showed in this video. Good score of the Epi LPJR…a have a dozen Firefly’s (all different models including their Thinline Tele, JR, Double cuts, LP’s and 338’s) and all have been very good. Same with Grote, IYV, Harley Benton, and of course Monoprice. I have their Retro Tele, their Classic Cali, their OS20, their HSS super Strat, and now their Boardwalk as well. The gig bag included is a very nice touch, and I have said many times in my reviews that other manufacturers should take notice! Grote’s new SG did come with a gig bag very similar to Monoprice (perhaps they heard me?) on their latest model. We are certainly in a new age of quite decent, affordable guitars! Check out my reviews of these here on the channel should you get some time! Again, appreciate your stopping in and hope to see you around the channel more in the future! Stay safe and keep pickin! 👍🎸
@@JimmyStewart1 FF338 update. Playing the other night I found a problem with it. The toggle switch is funky, and was cutting out on me. Not sure if this is a batch wide issue or just the luck of the draw for me. Debating on sending it back for a new one, or just taking it to my luthier to have him fix it up real quick. I figure the shipping costs alone would be higher than having my tech do the job. It’s probably just a cold solder point or something easily fixed, at worst replaced. Thoughts? Oh, and my other guitars are feeling neglected as I haven’t put down that LPJR. I was nice though, and played them all last night for at least 15 minutes apiece…
@@Snarkyone1965
Sometimes just working the switch around for awhile will help “clean up the contacts” and it will fix itself. If not, hit it with a bit of CNC or other electronic spay cleaner. If it is still cutting out, then you make have a loose wire or a bad solder point. Again, not a huge deal, but annoying. If the guitar looks/plays and sounds good, I would keep it and just fix the switch if it needs it.
Inexpensive guitars use inexpensive components to keep the cost down. A 3 way switch is a pretty easy fix, but as I said try working it/spraying it before you replace it completely! 👍
@@JimmyStewart1 Yep, that seems to have done the trick, thanks for the tip. Worked it around, and my luthier sprayed some stuff in there, and the problem seems to have gone away. Holy Moly does that thing sound beautiful on the new Fender Princeton Chorus I just acquired. All of my guitars have a new sound, ROFL.
@@Snarkyone1965
So happy it worked out for you! The Fender Princeton is a great amp! Enjoy! 👍🎸
OK the main question... Would you gig with them, if so which one would hold up best in your opinion in a gigging situation??
Hi Tom! Thanks for watching and commenting! Honestly, I wouldn’t hesitate to gig with any of them. I own a plethora of guitars, and I think these would hold up as well as any. When gigging (haven’t recently ☹️) I usually bring a number of different instruments, but again wouldn’t hesitate to bring any of these out with me.
You're a phenomenal guitar player.
Thanks for the kind comments Clint! Really appreciate it! Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Hope to see you around the channel more! 👍🎸
Jammin Jimmy! Look at him GO!👍🏼. Got me the Gold fly.. lovin it
Hi Jim…thanks so much for watching and commenting! My Gold Top 338 is a favorite, though it stays in the case most days. It’s been shown and played of course here on the channel a few times 😎
Truly appreciate your stopping in to the channel…enjoy it! 🎸👍
Well done
Thanks so much for watching and commenting…👍
Another great review.... the first firefly 338s were Wine, Black, and a Black with Blue burst on top. I got 2 of the wine. So I law got 1 and I still love mine... Only humbucker guitar (9) I have where the ajustable poles are NORTH polarity... all my other are SOUTH...but it still sounds good
Son in law got one
So that’s where the other “Wine” finishes went…🤣
Interesting on the polarization…
Truly appreciate your stopping in Rw….
Thanks so much for watching and commenting…👍
@@JimmyStewart1 did you get one of the few firefly Crossroad full hollowbodys last year.
@@rwjohnson3303
No, I did not. I already have both the IYV and the Grote Jazz boxes, and when the came out, it looked very similar to the Grote, so I did not order one. I have heard some pretty good things however…some small issues about the bridge, and height of the pups….
@@JimmyStewart1 yes the crossroad did have low pups...I had to put 2 shims in bridge and one in neck...your video made it very easy
I am feeling the Indio, but I want to ask you which guitar sounds a little "better" for that classic hardrock sound? I play a lot if AC/DC, Zeppelin , Stones, Greenday and some metal, not too heavy metal. the Grote or the Monoprice 66SB DLX Plus Mahogany Electric Guitar with Gig Bag, Gold Top? I like look of the Indio Boardwalk or the Goldtop 66SB. Would you mod any of these guitars if you need to? Sorry for the many questions. Thank you for posting this.
In my opinion Angle, a solid body equipped with P90’s would be more conducive to the style of music you are playing. The Boardwalk would certainly do it, but you are more apt to be fighting “feedback” due to its semi-hollow body design, especially at stage volumes. The Indio 66SB ticks the boxes for you…gold top, lots of classic rock style grunt with the P90’s…I think you would enjoy it! Hope that helps!! 🎸👍
Good vid J! I got a new Boardwalk this week that was a disaster and was sent right back - a stain on the front of a natural finish, loose output jack, glue all around the neck, truss rod cover way off to one side, binding sanded off, stains at the top of the fretboard, and the flamed front was sanded off in a spot near the neck - holy smokes! I’ve had lots of Indios and this was the first one I had any trouble with!!! I will say that Monoprice customer service was very helpful and sorted out the refund/return…good for them on the service! I will buy more from them…but have a Grote coming in…so don’t think I’ll get another Boardwalk!? I do like that amber finish on yours though…but it’s not available.
Dennis That sucks about your guitar problems , if your Grote is as good as my SG from them you will be very satisfied. I had absolutely no issues with mine , it came well boxed and in perfect condition. I couldn't believe how well made and solid it was. I paid $152 and it's almost as good as my Epi SG which cost 4x as much. The only thing that wasn't good was the tuners sucked , but it didn't matter because i replaced them as well as the pickups. Good luck!!
Thanks so much for watching and commenting Dennis….yikes!!
Sounds like their “professional luthier” was on a coffee break when your Natural Boardwalk came through…glad to hear Monoprice CS is taking care of it. Which Grote did you get? Anyway, like you I have a number of Indio’s and outside of some small issues (a little fret sprout usually) I have been quite pleased with them. Same with my Grote’s…
Good luck with it…thanks again for stopping in and sharing! Much appreciated! 👍🎸
I got the GRWB-VS35 coming in. I had one of their Jazz guitars in natural - was really impressed with it - but it went out for sale…so going to try this one next! 👍
@@dennyd4848
Excellent…let me know what you think once you receive it!
@@JimmyStewart1 hey Jimmy - update on that Grote - after three months it still hasn’t left China and they refuse to refund…I’m not happy with Grote and would recommend not buying their products.
My public school math may be off but isn’t 15 4/16 the same as 15 1/4?
Yes, I believe it is…😎
Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍
Thats cool jimmy!
Great name!! 😎
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! 👍
It seems like things have changed a bit in the last 2 years. Perhaps you can do another comparison video.
Hi Monty…thanks so much for watching and commenting. Lots of different models have come out, with lots of upgrades made to the FF 338 as well. Perhaps in the future…I still own these, along with others and all have been reviewed/demoed here on the channel. Appreciate your stopping in to the channel and sharing your thoughts! 🎸👍
Played my strat for many years. Got a firefly and love it. Bought 2 more. Its what i play 80% of the time.
Hi Bob…thanks so much for watching and commenting. Like many, I have played for a number of years myself with really the only decent guitars you could get back then…mainly Fender’s and Gibson’s though I did use a Rickenbacker and Steinberger for awhile as well. Acoustics were Ovations and Martins…
Fast forward to a few years ago when I discovered a number of small companies that can make some very good guitars for a fraction of the cost of those big name brands. Are they Gibson/Fender/Martin’s? No..but they are very playable and much more guitar than what the price would lead you to believe or expect. A chance to fill those niche models at a fraction of the cost or finishes to fill the mood…or mod platforms for less than a kit…truly appreciate your stopping into the channel and sharing your thoughts! Much thanks…🎸👍
Thank you, Jimmy what do you think of my comments, which P90 do you like better the Grote Hollowbody or the 66SB DLX Plus?
Based on your music preference as you stated, I would go with the 66SB…it’s a solid body vs a semi-hollow and I think would perform better for you in the musical genres you mentioned.
@@JimmyStewart1 Thank you Jimmy! You're the best! Thank you for taking time out to patiently answer my questions!
@@AngelMartinez-qs3cf
My pleasure! 👍👍
Hi, does the 338 Firefly have a smaller body?
Hi P Luck…thanks for watching and commenting! As I go over in the video, the FF is close in size to the Monoprice Boardwalk, and a bit smaller (but thicker) than the Grote. The Firefly 338 is more similar in size to the Gibson 339 than to the Gibson 335…hope that helps! Thanks for stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍
I have some great guitars, including a vintage Carvin and a new Kiesel but didn’t have a hollow body and just wanted to mess around with one. I bought the Firefly for the hell of it based on good reviews. Wow! I was and am very pleasantly surprised. It plays, looks and sounds great. Excellent value.
Hi Rick…thanks for stopping in and sharing. The FF 338 is fun, right? In fact, any of the 3 I show here are quite fun, playable guitars that are worthy of consideration to anyone looking for a budget semi-hollow. Appreciate your watching and commenting Rick!! Enjoy your FF 338! 🎸👍
@@JimmyStewart1 yeah, I end up playing it more than I thought. I was assuming I’d swap the pickups with Seymour Duncan JB/Jazz like I often do, but they sound pretty decent as-is.
@@rtroiani
Yeah, most seem to want to pull the pups before they even receive the guitar, play it and listen to it. I will agree that the stock humbuckers from FF can be inconsistent from guitar to guitar, but I have 4 different 338’s from FF and they all sound good. More PAF style humbuckers with little to no wax potting
@@JimmyStewart1 aside from adding a Dunlop Strap Lock (standard on all my guitars), I think I may change the volume pot. It seem to be pretty much in or off and doesn’t work like my other guitars. Still a steal since that’s only a few bucks and a few minutes work.
@@rtroiani
That’s odd…have you tried “self cleaning” or spraying it down with some CRC…worth a try before replacing.
Awsome Jim..I have to say I like the grote the best but as we talked I'm a p90 guy
So glad you enjoyed it Tom! The Grote is a great choice! Appreciate your stopping in and sharing your thoughts! 👍🎸
great video brother!
didnt bb king play a 335 style guitar alot?
Thanks man!! Yes, BB played a 335 (Stereo) that he named “Lucille”. I had a 72 ES-335 Stereo back in the day….one of the ones that got away….😎
I love the way they all sound... I sadly went with an Ibanez as52. I just couldn't stand the brick/block inlays.
Hi Emrys345 Guitar…thanks so much for watching and commenting. Enjoy your Ibanez As52. Appreciate your stopping into the channel and sharing!
Much thanks..🎸👍
It seems these review videos never mention the neck dimensions - thickness or nut width. I got a Firefly and love it, but the neck is smaller and thinner than I'd prefer. Are all these neck dimensions the same or similar? Is one wider and bigger than the others? I'd love to know!
I can’t remember at this point for sure, but I think I talked about the necks in the individual reviews on these. They are all pretty close to being the same with the Grote and Monoprice being slighter thicker C necks with a flatter radius of 13.78 (350mm) compared to the FF which the early batches were a 12 radius. They have since changed to a wider radius fretboard from what I am hearing. Hope that helps a bit…appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍
@@JimmyStewart1 that helps! Could you please tell me the nut widths? Neck thickness (fingerboard surface to back of neck) at 1st fret? That last one is asking a lot, I know! :-)
@@EVHFV
I will measure tomorrow when I get back into the studio for you. 👍
So didn’t get down there till today…
Firefly measures 42.71 mm at the nut
25.50 neck @ the 1st fret
Grote measures 41.93 at the nut
25.20 neck @ the 1st fret
Monoprice measures 43.68 at the nut
23.20 neck @ the 1st fret
@@JimmyStewart1 thanks so much!!!
Indiana Jones plays Jefferson Airplane near the end and once again great job Jimmy
Ha!! 🤣
Thanks so very much for your support and appreciate your stopping in Dave!
Much appreciated….👍
Which has the thinnest neck for small hands?
Thanks for stopping in Louis…I am out of town, so can’t verify at the moment but as my memory serves, they were all pretty close to each other and feel pretty similar. Smaller hands I think would be fine on any of them really. Appreciate your stopping in! 👍🎸
Sheeit Jimmy, you rock!
Thanks so much for stopping in Steve…truly appreciated! 👍🎸
I got the red FF and had to strip it except for the tail end and posts. I put that roller bridge on all my tuneonatic guitars. I would have chose that wine color also but red was my fav over the black that was able when I got mine.
Between the 3 for sound, my ears prefer billy-bob also. Hate the finish.
Between the buckers I'll go monoprice, and for best deal is indio cuz the bag is a super one.
Yeah, I remember you did a lot of work on your FF…your conclusions are pretty much what I came up with. The finish on the Grote is unique…you will either like it or not I guess…the wine FF is a great player as well. It was a tough video…Thanks for watching and the support Mike! Appreciate your stopping in as always! 👍🎸
I bought the FF338 and really didn't like the pickups in it at all. The bottom end was really fuzzy. But it plays fantastic,and only a little fret work needed for my taste, but some Epiphone Classic 57's really woke it up, great all around guitar now
Yep!! Pickups are certainly a matter of personal taste and at this price point, one of the things that’s pretty inconsistent.
Thanks so much for watching and sharing your thoughts! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍
p90's are my favorite too. They have a very "real" sound. My new Grote matte green just like yours is arriving tomorrow!!
Hi Glen…thanks so much for watching and commenting! Congrats on your new Grote, and I hope you enjoy it! I do enjoy mine. Be sure to let me know what you think once you receive it, ok? Thanks again for stopping in to the channel and sharing! Much appreciated! 🎸👍
@@JimmyStewart1 Thanks Jimmy, I can't wait to get it! Your video made me glad I picked this model, I think it'll fit me well.
@@glenperry9752
Outstanding!! I think you are going to enjoy it….love playing mine. I have the full review of the guitar here on the channel as well if you have not seen it yet! I believe I did a setup video on this as well…not sure! 😎
@@JimmyStewart1 Very cool! I will check those out for sure.
@@glenperry9752
Have fun…explore the channel! 👍🎸
Well, I know that generally lighter, thinner hollow and semihollow bodies resonate better. I think I can hear that with my stereo connected. That might eliminate the blond looking one. Any comment Jimmy? Thanks!
I don’t know John….I think (even in semi hollow electrics) the pups are what mostly affects sound when amplified. I don’t think it’s “unplugged” resonance has a major influence on which one I would prefer over the other….at least for me anyway. I also strung the Boardwalk with 7’s so it’s not a fair comparison in that aspect. I think they all sound/play/look good and are good buys. My preferences in sound go to P90 pickups, but they all have a particular sound. Thanks so much for watching and commenting, and of course your input! 👍🎸
@@JimmyStewart1 I certainly agree on the P90's. Thanks Jimmy!
👍👍
Great video but saying “May-Hogany” is killin’ me.😁
🤣
Sorry…it’s a “Boston” thing….I truly appreciate your stopping in to the channel! Thanks so much for watching and commenting! 👍🎸
@@JimmyStewart1 I’m from Lakeville. Work in Mansfield…. I get it!
@@robraaiii
🤣
Yeah, so in my mind, the rest of the world doesn’t know how to speak proper English….or the “Dirty Water” I grew up drinking has rotted my brain…😎
@@JimmyStewart1 I’ve ordered the new Firefly Explorer type & Flying V type. I also own the dobro, the 338, the SG TYPE and the LP type. Problem is, I haven’t learned to play yet. ☺️😅Very entry level.
There is nobody out there (that I’ve found), doing reviews on multiple Firefly guitars. Maybe you could play all or some of mine and make the video I wish I had the skill to make. Think about it? Still in the bay state?
p.s. also lived in W.Roxbury for 10yrs
🤘Boston Rocks
@@robraaiii
Actually, I have done a number of FF guitars together on the channel. I have their 338’s, Double Cuts, FFPTH, FFTH, LP’s and JR….have a look at my Monoprice Amp reviews, I use a number of them. Same with the Spark amp reviews….I also did a “Definitive” FF guitar video showing a number of them.
Thanks so much for the offer, however I left the great Commonwealth back in the 70’s…good luck on those new Fireflies….I was looking, but decided to skip the newer models (for now)
I wish the orange one came with P-90s 😎
Ha! The humbuckers in it do sound good however…that’s why you need different pickup configurations using different guitars. I think I will restring the Monoprice later, back up to a set of 9’s. I think this particular guitar needs to have a heavier set, and leave the Willy G. 7’s to the single coils….😎
@JimmyStewart1 - Damn! I wished I hadn't viewed this vid, now I'm getting the urge to pick up a semi-hollow to round out my collection. At this time, the Grote seems a clear winner - SS frets, better pricing, and easy ordering/returning - in addition to your detailed comparison. Would you mind if I blamed you if my wife finds out? 🤣
Hi TR….appreciate your stopping in. Every player needs a semi-hollow in their arsenal. You are certainly free to blame me…that’s what I am here for…😎
@@JimmyStewart1 "Every player needs a semi-hollow in their arsenal. " - so noted! Thank you for your service!
@@TechnoRiff
My pleasure…appreciate it! 🎸👍
@@JimmyStewart1 Just thought I"d let you know that the Grote rep I've been messaging says he thinks their LP Metallic Paint style model is being updated with SS frets, and will confirm after their holiday. That would be tres cool...
@@TechnoRiff
Thanks so much for stopping in and sharing. I think I am pretty well set on LP’s right now and the latest FF’s are now stainless frets with ball ends also. Good to hear Grote stepping up as well! Truly appreciated…🎸👍
Just picked the Monoprice Indio Boardwalk for the insane sale price of $65.62!
Hi SealedGravy…WOW!! Nice score!! Congrats and enjoy it!! That’s a great buy…..thanks so much for watching and commenting!! Appreciate your stopping in and sharing!! 🎸👍
Apparently there was a “glitch” in their system…they have since “sold out”…hopefully they will still send it to you at that price. Just be aware that in the past, (this has happened before) they did cancel some orders. I was able to grab their 66 DLX Plus last year for $89 (from $249) but that was a “close out” sale…keeping my fingers 🤞for you! 🎸👍
@@JimmyStewart1 Thanks for the heads up Jimmy----I see a pending charge from Monoprice , so hopefully it'll go thru....thanks for all you do, really enjoy the channel....
@@sealedgravy3702
That’s a good sign!! Congrats again!! Truly appreciate your stopping in and hope to see you more around the channel!! Much thanks…🙏👍
@@JimmyStewart1 Looks like I lucked out---Monoprice just emailed me the tracking number---thanks for keeping your fingers crossed for me---it worked! This will be my 5th Indio guitar. Glad you were able to get the 66 DLX Plus for a "song" too! I know, that was corny! LOL! Take care.
the one thing I don't like about the Firefly (appearance) is that the horns look like they have a "flat" (instead of curved) side.
it just bugs me. but it is not a deal breaker.
Hmm…not quite sure what you mean about “flat vs curved” sides to the horns, but yeah…though all 3 have slight differences to them in shape and size, they are pretty close in dimension.
@@JimmyStewart1 it's hard for me to describe.
if you look at the top (or bottom) from where the bout goes down to the narrowest part of the "waist" of the body, then makes the "S" curve . . . the last part of the "S" curve, right before it hits the "point" of the horn. looks (to me) like more of a straight line, than a curve.
it's pretty subtle. and I may be insane . . .
maybe it does curve, but not enough to make me happy.
looking at the shot @1:39 where the Firefly is in your lap. it *does* look curved, but still "wrong" to me.
maybe what it is is the proportions.
the Billy Bob's horns look similar to the Firefly, but the cutout is shallower than the Monoprice.
The Firefly has horns like the Billy Bob, but the same deeper cut out as the Monoprice . . .
So the Firefly's horns look "too big" (wide?) for the deep cut out . . . .
again, it is just to my eye.
No one examines the actual center block for size weight composition as they very alot
Hi Ronnie…thanks for watching and commenting! I agree, centerblock is important. I can tell you that I did “look” at the blocks, as I check for general appearance and any obvious issues (splinters, unglued, etc) and didn’t notice any issues. The Monoprice center block looked to be the thickest of the three, but I didn’t use a scope or anything on them. Just what I could see via the sound holes. Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! 🎸👍
@@JimmyStewart1 With the guitar laying in its case if you tap around the top you can hear how much of the top is covered by the center block. Also each top sounds different, Real 335s seem to really ring compared to budget guitars
Agreed!! Each top does sound different. You can go down the endless rabbit holes when it gets to tone woods….at the end of the day, I still think the majority of “tone” one gets is more the pickups attached to that wood along with the players “hands and playing techniques”
I have a Grote and it’s impressive for what it cost , like really impressive. It’s not this one , it’s the cherry red 335 style with humbuckers
Hi Ben…thanks for stopping in and sharing! Grote is making some very impressive guitars for the $$ without question! I now have 3 of them, this, the hollow body Jazz box, and their new SG style. No complaints with any of them. I jumped on this one mostly due to the finish and the P90’s. Lots of good things about your model as well! Congrats and enjoy it! Thanks again for watching and commenting….much appreciated! 👍🎸
I have the grote 335 too, most comfortable neck I can remember playing on, pickups are the only thing I wanna change but that neck seals the deal for me with my narly old man hands, love it and don't wanna put it down
Congrats William, and enjoy it! Thanks so much for stopping in to the channel and sharing with us! 🎸👍
If you prefer P90s - try the Casino. :)
Thanks for stopping in to the channel….Yes, the Epiphone Casino is a fine guitar. However, in this shootout I was comparing these lower priced budget 335 styles while the Casino is over 3x the cost. Truly appreciate your watching and sharing your thoughts! 🎸👍
Any of these brands offer left handed unit's? I'm feeling like an abandoned step child! Come on people, show US some love!
I hear ya John..it’s tough out there for the “South Paw” players…Firefly did release a couple of batches of the 338 for lefties in the past. Monoprice also had a few models available in left handed versions. Not sure about Grote…I can not recall seeing any lefties from them, but I could have missed them.
Appreciate your stopping in to the channel…keep the faith! 👍🙏👍
338 is a maple body I think. I think the center block is mahogany.
I thought maple tops….mahogany back and sides?? I could be wrong of course….😎
Thanks for stopping in and commenting Greg…. Appreciate it! 👍🎸
I think the Grote sounds the best.
@@gregsguitartone
I have to agree….just something about P90’s that grab you in…,
Thanks bro…👍
3 keepers.
I agree Mike! Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Appreciate your stopping in to the channel! Hope to see you around the channel! 👍🎸
@@JimmyStewart1 Hey Jimmy thanks for the reply,I was wondering which one out of the three has a body shape closest to a Gibson 335? Thank You.
@@mikegraphone2736
They are all pretty close Mike. I don’t currently own a 335 to compare them to, but I use to own one back in the day…😎
All 3 are basically based on it, so they are all close to the same size and body shape. The horn shapes are slightly different, and the bout sizes may also be slightly different. The Firefly is slightly smaller, with more “pointy” horns. The Grote is probably closer in body size, but this model has P90’s, not humbuckers. The Monoprice is kinda between them all, but probably has the better fit/finish (it was also the more expensive). The newer Fireflies are also very nice, see my latest review of their new “Racing Stripe” model.
Grote also makes a poly finish 335 with humbuckers as well…👍🎸
Ex Navy? We may have crossed paths.
Hi Jim! Anything is possible 😎
Thanks for stopping in and commenting! Where did you serve? East or West coast? Years?
What ship were you on and where were you stationed ?
I pre-commissioned the USS Nimitz CVN-68 was on board till late 77 then to the USS John King DDG-3 until 79
Stints at Oceana, and Little Creek, four years in South Wales, UK then off to Hawaii. 2 tours in the Gulf, both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Retired in 94 from Pax River, MD
Very disappointed you didn't pick ONE . That's what a shootout is for. Maybe you could think about it and come to a conclusion .
Hi Barry…thanks so much for watching and commenting! This was a very tough video to do, as I stated in the video I like them all and each has its own character. I prefer the pups on the Grote, but like the finish/color of the Boardwalk! The FIrefly has the advantage of finish choices, and all 3 play/feel close to each other. I have thought about it since shooting this and have come to the conclusion that availability and final price would probably be the final factor if you could only choose one! Thanks so much for stopping in to the channel and sorry to disappoint you! I hope you enjoyed the video regardless, and I was able to show the pros/cons of each (though the cons are few)! 🎸👍
The Firefly is not a 335 copy. Put one in a 335 case and it bangs around like a BB in a boxcar. It is the same body dimensions as the Ibanez AM series.
Jim, all these guitars are in the “style” of the Gibby 335…not saying they are exact copies, as they are not. All the bodies differ a bit in size, horns and bout. Firebird was not trying to “copy” any of them. Thanks for stopping in! 👍
Isn't that what Sherriff Buford T Justice said about his Kid's brain? If he shoved it up a gnat's A$$...... ??
@@jimmyz2098
🤣
Elders know best
Ha!! 🤣
Thanks so much for watching and commenting William! I will take that as a compliment! 😎
Appreciate your stopping in to the channel!! 🎸👍
You must, I am in this club
@@williamcordts4278
Ha!! Figured that! 👍👍
The Firely is not made of mahogany, it is all maple.
I was under the impression that they had maple tops…mahogany back and sides. I could certainly be wrong here….appreciate your stopping in! 👍
Five "budget" (cheap) guitars in the last four months, and I've made my final decision. The next one I buy won't be a budget instrument, I'm deciding on where in the $1300 - $2400 range I'm going to settle. Not an oriental one, but what I see advertised in Cordoba looks to be more what I'm looking for. No electronics, I'm tired of fighting the manufacturers to get an amp that sounds good played clean, and it's going to be nylon strings. (Not my first one, and I regret that I don't have my little Framus anymore.) Then I'll start getting rid of the guitars I already have and don't use. Single, retired, about every three years I can indulge myself, and shamelessly do.
Hi Rich…thanks for watching and commenting! The funny thing is, I have a number of “high end” guitars including Fender, Gibson, Martin, (see my Classic/Vintage Guitar Series here on the channel) and now that I am “retired” I find myself having more fun discovering and playing my “budgets” and mid tier instruments. 20 years ago I wouldn’t be caught dead playing a “Squier” and now I own 5 different Squier offsets including their Classic Vibe, Contemporary and Paranormal series guitars which play and sound great! Advances in CNC machining have reduced the overall cost of Guitar building and you can now find some very decent guitars that simply were not possible back on the day. Speaking of Framus, I have a parlor steel string from the early 60’s I still use to record with from time to time. I agree with you on a nice “gut string” and have been lookin/thinkin about the Godin Multi-Tac (Canadian). I have their A6 Acoustic/Electric that I bought new around 2000 and it’s been a great instrument! Anyway…appreciate your stopping in to the channel and sharing your thoughts! Regardless of what you decide, keep pickin’…🎸👍
@@JimmyStewart1 "Gut Strings". The last time I priced genuine gut strings, it was for a teardrop ukelele. I don't remember how much it was for a set, but I could have bought four or five ukeleles for the same price. Nylon works, and doesn't empty the wallet and bank so fast.
@@richbuege6491
Oh, I hear ya…I was referring to a nylon stringed guitar…I still call them “gut string” guitars…😎
Indio for the WIN!
The FF pickups don't sound as good.
I love me P90 Grote, but the QC was horrible when I got it.
I sold both of my FF338's.
I think it depends on the guitar….I had 3 338’s and each sounded different. I don’t think there is a lot of consistency in the pups at this price point. Some of them sound good, others not so much.
The Grote (Billy Bob) is one of my favs….mine was fine out of the box (mostly). Again, consistency at this price point it tough. Not a lot of QA is going to be spent.
The two guitars I bought from Monoprice (not a 338) were absolute junk. Terrible fret work, under the hood holes everywhere in thr cavities from over drilling. I will stick with the FF and Grotes I have.
Hmmm….sorry to hear that James! May I ask which models? I have been quite pleased with the Monoprice guitars I have bought. The only one that had some small fret work issues (sprout…nothing uneven or high frets) was the Cali Classic Strat. The Retro Tele, HSS Strat, OS 20 and Boardwalk all came with nice fretwork. The OS 20 had a miss drilled high E tuner that I had to fix….my Firefly’s and Grote’s have been good as well. All required to be decently setup, and new strings of course, but that’s any guitar really. Thanks for watching and commenting, and your input. Appreciate it…👍🎸
@@JimmyStewart1 A Jazzmaster knockoff and one of their LP Bolton neck specials. I do plan to try a 338 from them but so far very unimpressed. When you really dig into them you only get 2 wire PUPs too compared to 4 on the FF. Grote also only have 2 wire PUPs too
@@J2R2H-zi9vj
Yeah, I don’t have either one of those. Interesting…I did not check the Boardwalk as far as the humbuckers being 4 or 2 wire…for me, unless the pickup was designed from the beginning to be coil split (unlikely in these price points) it really makes no difference to me. That’s the reason for getting another with single coils…🤣
They all look exactly what they are which is cheap.
Hi Tony!
Thanks for stopping in! That was the point of the video…a comparison on inexpensive 335 style guitars. All were sub $200 (though prices are climbing daily it seems)