I think this is what Darrell is like when he's angry.

@ericb.1384

4 жыл бұрын

He was out of control in this video, he needs to get his pure rage under control.

@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342

4 жыл бұрын

He's gone mad with guitar power...

@twoprimo

4 жыл бұрын

Canadians - sigh

@CptTenneal1

4 жыл бұрын

First angry Canadian in recorded history. He'll probably issue another video apologizing for being angry.

@xavierg5523

4 жыл бұрын

He's gotta watch that tone. It made me cry 🇨🇦

Can you make a “best guitars in the $500-$1000 range?” I’m looking for my first electric guitar and there are so many good guitars in that price range.

@ThomasS17

4 жыл бұрын

I'm about to buy my first, too, and I'll probably go with an Epiphone Les Paul Standard Pro.

@josiahanderson8816

4 жыл бұрын

xX-FAME-Xx I was looking at SEs but I heard from a couple of people that they are low quality. They said the electronics feel cheep and the finish isn’t done well, but I will do some more homework and go play a couple and see how I like them.

@DovahSheep

4 жыл бұрын

Just recently picked up a PRS SE 245 Standard for 400 used, one of the best playing and sounding guitars I've ever played. Unbelievable bang for buck

@mortwally3510

4 жыл бұрын

A year ago I bought a PRS custom SE 24 one of my best playing guitars 🎸

@josiahanderson8816

4 жыл бұрын

I was looking at the player strat. What do people think about that guitar.

Sold my PRS Silver and just picked up the HSS Cobra Blue. It’s absolutely amazing.

@Andy-th9kj

3 жыл бұрын

I just got an HSS Cobra Blue too. I am in love but it’s the nicest guitar I’ve ever owned and my first Strat so maybe I’m not jaded yet lol

@ericramey6503

3 жыл бұрын

@@Andy-th9kj same here.

@williamweiss3620

3 жыл бұрын

I have never had a good guitar and I've been playing a long time. I've been searching through all the different guitar choices and the Cobra blue HSS is amazing. I ordered one yesterday and I can't wait!!

@Andy-th9kj

3 жыл бұрын

@@williamweiss3620 You won't be dissapointed! It plays amazingly, and is beautiful. the paint is so much more amazing in person. And the case is awesome too.

@williamweiss3620

3 жыл бұрын

@@Andy-th9kj I took my 12 string Rickenbacker into Sweetwater to have some work done on it and it leaves me with no guitar to play. I love to play rhythm guitar. I just started playing lead a few months ago. Lol it's my first Strat also but mine won't be here until the next shipment which is in May. It's killing me!

Late to the party here, but I just picked up a Fender Ultra Strat. As a bassist for a long time, I wanted to get into learning guitar to expand my horizons and am that person you described. Someone that doesn't need custom shop specs, but someone that is discerning with respect to guitar setup, fit, finish, hate noisy pickups, etc. I don't want to but a guitar, and then have to return it, or take it to a luthier to have frets leveled, remove fret sprout, etc. etc. The sculpted heal is something that is also catching on in the bass world (See Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray) and yes, it is strange that after all this time this is now a "feature." The reason that Fender I believe can't just pivot with whatever the latest fad is at the moment is their brand cache relies on consistency more than it does features and specs (although these do serve a purpose too). Other new companies can start with these new ideas and concepts as a way to differentiate. In any case, the Ultra is a GREAT guitar and am having a blast learning the 6-string view of the world.

@cjbaker9703

Жыл бұрын

Went from a player to ultra. Absolutely LOVE IT!!!!

You mean you're not excited about the "more noiseless than 'noiseless'" pickups? I don't know how you get less noise out of something that already claims to have no noise. Whenever Fender says something is changing, what they really mean is the price is going up. Meh.

@JELIFISH19

4 жыл бұрын

@Lord Quilton The sound is the issue. Most people who like Strats and Teles didn't like the Deluxes and Elites. If you look at forums, a lot of players will change the noiseless pickups. They're the least popular American production models because they're not what people want from Fender. People play them in the store but they don't sound like what they think a Strat or Tele should sound like so they don't buy them. Most people think they're the worst sounding of the American production guitars. So yes, the high end modern line has gone through the most revisions because they haven't gotten it right.

@donaldtrump2078

4 жыл бұрын

It's all BS, Build the Wall, any decent player and Amp worth its Salt can compensate for lacking Pups faster then 2 grand can!

@supermanwhereareyounow3081

4 жыл бұрын

Tried the Elite Strats...did not like the hard plastics...and I do not think it is worth the price brand new...a mint used custom shop costs the same..

Fender: Never play a Fender the same way again! Darrell: Unless you don't have 2K for a guitar, then you definitely will be playing it the same way lol What do you think of my idea? Too progressive for Fender?

@michaeldiamond76

4 жыл бұрын

I really hate the labels on the single coils. could they write anymore on them! so tacky

@rhythmstyx1945

4 жыл бұрын

Darrell Braun Guitar What is your opinion of the Fender Talon?

@Kaplunco

4 жыл бұрын

I have an American Deluxe from 2009 or so that literally has all the same features! Noiseless pickups, S1 switch, compound radius, contoured neck heel, in fact mine even has an LSR roller nut! I was hoping for something revolutionary, not a renamed Deluxe.

@patricksalembier7352

4 жыл бұрын

I would love for Fender to go in the direction you are talking about Darrell. That would help them keep their place in the market and be a strong choice as the go to company for a guitar at all price points, in my non-professional opinion. You need to get hired at Fender!

@JoeDionTrisnadi

4 жыл бұрын

Don't they have what you want but in different names? Mexican Vintera / Vintera Modified (Vintage/Ultra) American Originals/Ultra (Vintage/Ultra) Both around the same price point respectively. Still, I do agree the Ultra doesn't bring anything groundbreaking to their line up. Offerings from Suhr, Ibanez (AZ Prestige), Musicman (Cutlass RS) have more desirable features (SS frets, roasted necks) at that ~$2000 range, albeit for a bit more money

Am I the only person on earth that doesn’t mind the hum of a single coil pickup? I primarily use humbuckers, but my vintage Tele makes noise and I kinda like it.

@deyandimitrov7287

4 жыл бұрын

I don't mind the hum in the single coils as well. As long as I like the tone it does not bother me.

@nehemiahzo_

4 жыл бұрын

If it ain’t hummin, I ain’t strummin

I just bought one and I love it (traditional burst with maple neck and the HSS electronic version)....because I am 46, and I am well to do these days, and I played only strat plus models back in the 90's, I am the perfect candidate for the sale. I get what Darrell is saying....Fender needs to revamp through the entire line...including Mexico again quickly to stay a heavy hitter. The guitar is Awesome...but I told my 16yo not to touch it and to play my old strat plus if he wants to....I know that is wrong....the top tier of guitars should be for younger guys buying their "forever" guitar...these features should be available to the newer players.

Totally agree! These should come with stainless steel frets and roasted necks.

@JELIFISH19

4 жыл бұрын

@Louis Sanderson That has always been the sentiment. The Deluxes, Elites, and now Ultras are the least popular American production models. That has always been the trend. The Vintages/Originals, Standards/Professionals, and Specials/Performers were always more popular than the Deluxes/Elites. People who want really traditional go for the Originals. The Performers and Professionals are for people who more modern without losing they like about Fenders. But the Deluxes and Elites go too far for most people who want a Strat or Tele.

@johnjonny6542

4 жыл бұрын

Xavier Alberti roasted necks and fried pickups...😂

@Guitarman1959

4 жыл бұрын

Reverend.

I was expecting something along the lines of the Made in Mexicos. When I heard it was going to be a top tier instrument line I lost interest

@gunkanjima3408

4 жыл бұрын

They launched the MIM Vintera series recently...

@HeelBJC

4 жыл бұрын

@@gunkanjima3408 Whoa man, don't violate the narrative with your logic and facts.

@eeshsinger

4 жыл бұрын

@@gunkanjima3408 Yep

@eeshsinger

4 жыл бұрын

@@HeelBJC lol

@jr0706

4 жыл бұрын

I think Vintera was a major step in the right direction. But I’d love to see some more high-end touches like roasted maple necks, etc. I think Fender hurts itself whenever it focuses so much on the highest end line. But I’ll just buy a roasted maple warmoth neck, refinish the body, and upgrade the already upgraded pups in my ‘91 MIM.

i've bought one, it should arrive next week, aren't you forgetting Darrell the compound 10" - 14" Radius, D Shape neck, the S1 switch, and...no matter what you say, it's a Fender, not a copy, so it will hold it's value a lot better. I understand if you are talking about, not taking into consideration brand names, and only comparing spec for spec. but having that Fender logo on the head stock, no matter what anyone says, matters a lot. Love your playing by the way !

i have to say, I love my ultra tele and my ultra strat. I have many guitars and they are toward the top of my lists.

@Trudizzle

3 жыл бұрын

I don’t think he said they weren’t good guitars. He just said they’re overpriced. Do you disagree? Obviously, you were willing to buy two “ultra“ guitars, so I imagine your answer is obvious, but I’m just curious about your opinion.

@gitr1

3 жыл бұрын

@@Trudizzle never said that he said they weren’t any good. Just a statement that I had them and liked them. Lol

@gitr1

3 жыл бұрын

Having said all of that. I have sold both and gotten into custom shop guitars. Talk about overpriced!! But I do love them as well.

@rayyan1495

3 жыл бұрын

@@gitr1 the ultra is so cool! I love my professiona Stratocaster. It’s just got that bell like tones. And the neck and tremvsystem are insane

@Trudizzle

3 жыл бұрын

@@gitr1 You're right, you didn't say that. Maybe I thought you were implying it? I can't remember. Anyway, what's the custom shop like? I would love to have my custom guitar built, but it seems like a hassle and way more expensive than I'd like.

It seems like Fender has turned into Apple.

@visje1996

4 жыл бұрын

Chris Holton I was trying to explain the fender brand to a friend and we came to the conclusion that fender costs more, does less, and Im somone who is willing to pay extra for that lol

@cianmcguigan7654

4 жыл бұрын

Maybe not quite as bad, but yeah they basically are which is really disappointing

@mojekh

4 жыл бұрын

This is exactly what I think about Ultra.

@carpediemarts705

4 жыл бұрын

All the major brands have Chinese versions.

@owen4255

4 жыл бұрын

Chris Holton ye but without IOS lol

I do quite agree here, Fender kinda had a misleading or underwhelming announcement. As much as I love Fender, it's kinda all the same now. I'd just go with a a Red Strat by this point just to keep up. I appreciate the analysis!

give us honest opinions, not paid puppet infomercials. nice!

great video as always Darrell, what's your best recommendation for a Telecaster style guitar in the $500-$1000 USD price range?

Would it kill Fender to offer Daphne Blue and Surf Green with their modern Strats...they are not just vintage finishes!

@Bloosee

4 жыл бұрын

I agree the color options are pretty underwhelming these days.

@stankfanger1366

4 жыл бұрын

Daphne Blue with a maple fretboard is one of the most "surf" looking combinations on Earth, and sadly that Squier Deluxe that Darrell had bastardized was one of the best examples of it. I'm personally all "Surf Greened" out because I started on one back in '82, but I can still appreciate the appeal and your damn good point.

@j_freed

4 жыл бұрын

*"Fender: It's way easier not to."*

@TcSomers

4 жыл бұрын

It's because they know that if they keep certain colors locked away, they can release them on Special Runs so they sell like candy. Specifically it's Daphne/Sonic blue, Shell/Coral pink, and Seafoam/Surf green. I've always wanted a Shell pink strat and tele but they seem to offer that the least. I took a gamble and bought a surf green Bullet Tele and it's my current #1, after extensive modding. Next time they offer a Bullet Strat or Tele in pink I'm buying it with no questions asked.

@DBSG1976

4 жыл бұрын

@@TcSomers I see what you're saying, but my issue is that they haven't offered a high end Strat (with maple necks, which is my taste) in either finish since the Surf Green American Elite Strat with "V" Neck a few years back. I think a new high end Strat in either finish would sell like hot cakes.

Point: Fender missed the mark by a few miles.

@adrianberdecia4489

4 жыл бұрын

lol

@QuoVadis88

4 жыл бұрын

@Ronnie Jackson If you have't tried one then you don't know what you are talking about. Tried one, bought one. Playing it into a 64 Custom Deluxe Reverb Hand Wired with Output tube bias tremolo just like pre-CBS magic amps. Never play a Fender the same way again. It is no joke. "Play authentic", now that is a joke. Try it, play it, you'll see.

@QuoVadis88

4 жыл бұрын

No they didn't. Try one. I did. Fender nailed it. Bought one. You have no idea. I can never explain to you what it is like to drive a Ferrari if you haven't driven one. Same as playing a $50 Grand 1950's Strat. It's got that "thing".

@monkeybooby3

4 жыл бұрын

Nah, got a pro Tele and like it just fine. Simple, straightforward, classic. It’s what I want and need.

@libertylizard_

4 жыл бұрын

The new Ultra is an exceptional instrument. If you already have an Elite; with how recent that was - you likely aren't the target for these. But the new noiseless are getting better. The comfort is in line with, if not better than, other offerings across the board and they play and sound great. Sure Fender is Fender and some want precisely that. Maybe there is a premium. As with ANY top line brand. What it should come down to is how it plays. The Ultra Tele is one of the best instruments in decades. I agree with Danish Pete (Andertons) completely on that. Go play one and see. Don't just follow the herd without at least bothering to pick one up.

I own the fender ultra flamed maple denim. Literally the best guitar I’ve ever played, and I’ve played ALOT of guitars having worked a guitar shop. It sounds like your suggestion was to make ultra for all price points. Then what exactly would make the ultra “ultra”?

I was happy when I bought my American pro. I went into the shop and ended up with a limited run of 130 American pro tele. Daphne blue, roasted maple neck and $2300 Canadian brand new. Still expensive yes but at least it’s a unique guitar that doesn’t flood the line!

Wow Darrell, another compelling and reassuring argument for why players are better off with other purchases, I'm still grateful by the way 😀

Fender are trying to out-PRS PRS. The same thing Gibson tried to do before simplifying things this year. The Ultra Strat is Fender's answer to the Silver Sky. I'd buy a Silver Sky at that price point.

@j_freed

4 жыл бұрын

Silver Sky pickups are worth any price difference, apparently... would like to finally see one!

@charlesharper7292

4 жыл бұрын

If Fender is going to out PRS, PRS, they really need to step up their game.

@Sethwatchlist

4 жыл бұрын

I don't think it's their answer to the Silver Sky. The feature set is targeting completely different players. The Silver Sky has a chunky neck while the Ultra series slimmed down to a modern C. It has a carved heel, which the Silver Sky doesn't have. The Ultra has all noiseless pickups and HSS options instead of the more traditional PU configuration of the Silver Sky. And they changed the compound radius to match the Suhr radius. If anything they are trying to out-Suhr Suhr. The Silver Sky is John Mayer's preferences combined with PRS quality and I don't think he would play an Ultra series over other Fenders.

@Dartheomus

4 жыл бұрын

Tell me that after you've played a Silver Sky. I am a Strat guy and I am a PRS guy. (I use an american std strat and a PRS 594 artist as my primary two guitars.) After venturing into PRS, I fell in love and planned to get a silver sky right until I tried it. The only positive on that thing was the perty paint job. The electronics were noisy, the knobs and switches felt like $0.02 parts (no resistance at all), the hardware was super cheap looking (tiny cheap feeling knobs and poorly molded plastic tuners), and the fret work was bad. (Very big surprise coming from PRS.) I literally went to the store to pick it up sight unseen, but I had the chance to play it in person and yeah... it's staying at that store for sure.

@QuoVadis88

4 жыл бұрын

Really? No! Silver Sky 7 1/4 inch radius? Ugly headstock. Never did like 6 screw bent steel saddles. Gig bag? Don't like WTF inlays. Want maple not rosewood. Don't want SSS, want HSS. Resale value? By comparison ... Ultra 10-14 inch compound radius, Ultra noiseless pickups, hot in HSS, Ultra rolled fingerboard edges, D neck, tone control magnetic click at 10 bypass tone circuit, Ultra sculpted back, DoubleTap™ humbucking bridge pickup, beautiful Plasma Burst Ash body, beautiful maple neck, premium molded hardshell case, short post locking tuners, feels great, sounds Ultra good. Resale value, Fender name guaranteed.

I completely agree with you Darrell, I only hope this can be a "little experiment" for a big change in the future as you said. I would be awesome be able to chose a fender "vintage" or "ultra" at any price range!

Good analysis ,Darrell. I believe even Keisel is offering quarter sawn necks on all of their guitars now and they have some under 2K. Point being, give players something to be excited over if the price is increasing.

I agree with Darrell. I am glad I bought an American Elite Strat instead of waiting on the ultra. Once I have the fret sprout repaired I can play it. It’s a brand new guitar. Bummer.

Yeah, that is definitely an underwhelming announcement. I'm with you on what they should be doing. Same with Gibson, offer the high performance heel joint throughout the line.

Among the guitars hanging on my wall, I have a Godin Stadium '59 Desert Green and a Blue Sterling Luke. They are great instruments with all the features of the new Fender Ultra. The made in Indonesia Sterling is a third of the price while the made in Canada Godin is half the price. I agree with you Darrell that Fender positioning is very hard to understand.

Hey Darrell- First off, love love, love your channel! I went and played the Fender Ultra HSS with rosewood fretboard today. I have to say, I actually think it’s sitting right about the right right price. I think Fender is trying to get back some of the John Suhr Classic HSS and James Tyler Classic HSS buyers to take a look. The fender has a much better sculpted heal joint then either of the Suhr or Tyler classics. It has locking tuners, which all of them have. Also, the pickups are a medium output noiseless and a overwound PAF sounding bridge humbucker. Suhr has a patented silent system for noise elimination on their Classic HSS and Tyler has a different method too. The Suhrs come in around $2,450 USD, Tyler’s $4500 USD. So, I think that is what Fender is trying to do. Your thoughts?

Think I'll just stick with my Mim Player strat, and mod that best I can.

@stankfanger1366

4 жыл бұрын

Personally modded guitar > everything else.

@zacharycochran8096

4 жыл бұрын

I feel this...I think I have my ride or die guitar if been buying pedals and perfecting my sounds...my wallet and myself are so much happier

@brynjones7371

4 жыл бұрын

My MIM strat is far better than my USA professional strat. The USA one is impossible to to tune at the twelfth fret.

@TcSomers

4 жыл бұрын

With the quality of Squier these days, you can go even cheaper. I bought a Bullet Tele for $120 flat, dropped $330 in parts, and now I have something Fender wishes they made ha. I'm missing the heel and body contours, but I think I may add those when I feel like a real challenge of a project. In the end I payed $450 for one of the best guitars I've ever played.

@TcSomers

4 жыл бұрын

@@intothew1ld2 The Squiers I've played recently have all had better necks and frets than the Americans. The only complaint I had was the action was crazy high, but that's a 30 second fix.

I'm just gonna say it, Fender is just as bad as Gibson when it comes to being in touch with what customers want. Change my mind

@jasper1798

4 жыл бұрын

Music Sucks I can agree with you a bit, but fender still does a better job with pricing and quality control than Gibson. Just my opinion

@fragtagninja1633

4 жыл бұрын

You are missing the point. Everyone hates the noiseless pickups. If they put them on there. It increases the sales of the fat 50's.

@matthewmp111

4 жыл бұрын

Music Sucks I don’t know...the solid state Deluxe Reverb seems to be a hit.

@charlie-obrien

4 жыл бұрын

You have an opinion that is not shared by literally millions of guitar owners. Need proof? Look at Darell's wall.

@joebodynobody764

4 жыл бұрын

They're killing it with the Squire line.

Spot on Darrell. This is exactly what I would like to see from fender. This would put more great playing fenders in more peoples hands. I just bought a Fender Professional sweetwater exclusive strat. Custom finish, 2 point trem, locking tuners, roasted maple neck, custom shop 69 pickups. I love it. Its awesome. It is also the most expensive guitar I have ever purchased and it is not likely that I will buy another that expensive for quite some time. The neck heel contour is something I have always wanted. I have often thought why don't they. Now this guitar is out and well, I am not spending another 2k just to get that. I would buy a player series if it had it though, so your line of thinking about their production is spot on.

Played an Ultra yesterday, it was awesome, played great. Felt a lot better than cheaper imports loaded with features.

Tone and products are a matter of personal taste. I purchased a tele ultra about 5 months ago. I loved it so much that i just ordered a strat ultra. Great product fender

Lots of “content” (commercials) came up on my YT feed about this series. Not impressed at all. Glad someone is speaking the truth rather than letting their affiliations speak for them.

Good points. My only grief is no HH configuration on the Strat.

Hi Darrell, what is this shiggy guitar you're talking about at 2:43 ? Tried searching for it on your channel but couldn't find it. Can you provide me with a link or the right name for it. I tired searching the web for it but I must have the spelling wrong.

I’d rather have the Elite for the truss rod wheel. I can’t figure out why they removed it for the Ultra.

@lakings889

4 жыл бұрын

Probably because it looks tacky af. Doesn't belong on a Strat.

@ShamanicSavant

3 жыл бұрын

@@lakings889 Not only that, it takes a special PG with the cutout for the wheel and it's the only guitar they made with the wheel. I bought the Ultra over the Elite for the gen 5 vintage noiseless pups because I honestly think they sound great and I can't stand 60 cycle hum. Also because I got it for 1500 bucks brand new :)

@lakings889

3 жыл бұрын

John Peni El nice score for $1500. Congrats dude.

Finally someone being honest about this. I've already seen too many people fawning over these like mindless sheep. Thanks for keeping it real Darrell.

@dianaingram685

4 жыл бұрын

Yeah. Simple enough... you make some great points here.

@MohnishGroverMusic

3 жыл бұрын

you cannot match the fender clean

So, I have a Squier Strat I have customized. I love it. It was a cheap one but it now has Fender Tex Mex pickups, CTS pots, vintage style tuners, looks great and plays great. Fender isn’t doing a whole ton to make me want to replace it.

Great to read an independent opinion. If you hear dealers' reviews, they will try to sell it hard. I was thinking about buying the Tele Ultra (blue one). After seeing your review, I wonder, what other option do I have that compares or wins over it for the same or less money (T-Style only)?

I'm damn impressed with some of the new guitars like your new Schechter. Who cares if Fender sells the same old-school Vintage Strat & Tele design at 7 price points, but fails to offer simple upgrades like shaped heel and cutaway at any reasonable price? And oh yes, they have the Pawn Shop and Alternate Universe - seems like just average quality for often close to custom shop prices. They are kind of sniffing their own farts at FMIC these days...

Agreed... I can see myself buying a MIM telecaster with “modern” features but $2,000 for the Ultra model is not an option. I must say, for me a big draw towards buying Fender electric guitars is resale value. There’s nothing easier than selling a Fender guitar at little to no loss. I have a really good Godin guitar that I wanted to sell and it was pretty much impossible (unless I accepted offers 1/3 the asking price).

@superweak

4 жыл бұрын

Selfish Gills I just played a Godin in Long & Mcquade and it was very impressive. Which one do you have?

@QuoVadis88

4 жыл бұрын

I have a MIM Player Strat HSS Floyd Rose. It is great. However, I tried an Ultra Strat today and it was like a Ferrari compared to a Toyota Corolla. I ordered one after 2 minutes of playing time. It was that obvious. My jaw dropped at how much this was built for me. And like you said resale value, none better. I have a Godin LGXT AA Solid Body Electric Guitar with a 13 pin out for a Roland GR-55, none better for tracking. It's the one with Hex pickups, built right into the bridge that can go directly out 1/4 inch and sound acoustic. It also has Seymour Duncans for electric out. There is a cheaper model but it's plywood with cheap pickups. But the Ultra is the ultimate playing experience. If you have ever played a mint condition 50's Strat then you know what I mean. It's got that "thing".

I just played one today, and I was completely blown away by how awesome it played. Nice low action with a killer neck. It kinda felt like they took the amazing Charvel dk24 roasted neck and threw it on a strat. 10/10.

@Rustinpeace117

4 жыл бұрын

The price point did suck balls though. I will never own one at over $2k CAD

I think that what you've proposed is exactly what Fender used to offer at the beginning of this decade: budget, standard, vintage, modded vintage and deluxe on those three lines: Squier had Affinity/Bullet (budget), Standard, Classic Vibe (vintage), Vintage Modified (vintage modded) and Deluxe; MIM line had Standard (MP is the "budget"), Classic (vintage), Classic Player (mods) and Deluxe; and American-made had Special (budget), Standard, AVRI (vintage), Vintage Hot Rod (mods) and Deluxe.

As a beginner looking to upgrade from my Squier Affinity Strat, I’d love to see a video on your favorite guitars between $500-$1000. How do you feel about the Vintera line? The Player line? Outside of Fender I know that PRS, Schecter and Epiphone all have solid offerings too, but it’s hard to know what’s really worth it. Keep up the amazing work!

@mortwally3510

4 жыл бұрын

Davis Underwood check out PRS SE You will not be disappointed

@davisunderwood9428

4 жыл бұрын

Mort Wally I will! thanks :)

@mohammedfarija8758

4 жыл бұрын

Also worth checking out the performer series. BUT, a little tip from me, if you can play the guitar before you buy it. Ordering it should be your last choice. I’ll tell you why. Every guitar is different. Take 5 strats made in the same factory with the same pickups and they’ll be different. I recently bought a performer strat which blew my mind, I played another performer in the shop and I couldn’t connect to it. Two guitar which should’ve been identical, loved one and hated the other.

@stankfanger1366

4 жыл бұрын

If you're looking in the $500-$1,000 range, you need to take a look at the most underrated but thoroughly respected guitar at that entire price point - the ESP LTD EC-1000. My Amber Burst with Seymour Duncans is still one of the best guitars I've every played in my life, and I've handled a lot of damn guitars since '82. They should not be able to sell this guitar for under $1,000 by any stretch of the imagination. They just shouldn't.

@jdl2180

4 жыл бұрын

Buy a used guitar on reverb. You can get some great deals if you look and make an offer.

I'll just keep playing my MIM Standard Strat, even though it has only 21 frets ;)

So I'm rather new to electric guitars in general so please don't flame me for the newb question. I'm more of a Martin - Taylor acoustic person. I do like the features like the sculpted back and the S1 switching - talking strat here. What non-Fender guitars should I consider? And why stainless steel frets? Thank you.

Just bought an American strat ultra luxe in red sunburst. Finally a fender with a neck as nice as my Ibanez Prestige - nice flat neck and not a baseball bat. Rolled edges and excellent fret work too. I’ve been playing for 30+ years, many professional and swore I’d never buy a Fender. This could be the market Fender was aiming for…

I've owned a deluxe which was the 1st version and I own an elite I love them both they sound great to me but I had the neck vintage tinted on them just for looks now I got a great deal on a new ultra since guitar center by me are closed I called and got 20ish percent off and bought a mocha burst I actually like the guitars the necks radius and finish and sound for whatever reason when I play mine I actually play better or I think I do cant explain it but I really like the elite /ultra line it works for me lol

I own the Elite Tele by Fender and it is a great guitar. I think I really fit into that space you described where I am right between Professional and Custom. I enjoy features like the S1 Switch, the noiseless pickups or the body contours and of course I like the sound of it. But I don't really know if its worth the money, because l could've gotten a handmade guitar for almost the same price. I think that's a problem with a lot of renowned brands, you always pay for the Name. But at least the production value is good (especially compared to some Gibsons in the same price range I've seen) and I consider it a high end, or at least close to high end guitar (for a mass produced guitar). I don't think there is anything wrong with it, and I guess it is the same with the Ultra Series, but I agree that the "new" Features are weak compared to what other brands do. Still they are fantastic guitars that just might be overpriced.

I love the idea of Ultra and Vintera (as Fender dubbed it) across all lines. Noiseless in Ultra, normal vintage voiced Fender pickups in the Vintera. I was surprised that so many people reviewed the Ultra series with such good light despite the fact it brought almost nothing to the all around table. It barely brought anything to Fender’s table either

Darrell, was surprised you didn't mention Epiphone in your list of guitars at the beginning on your vid. I just bought an Epi Les Paul Custom Pro LTD ED, and it is just gorgeous! I've been playing Fenders for 50 years and seriously feel the Epi is a much better guitar that my Strat Delux.

They should’ve called it Premium. Player, Performer, Professional, Ultra? Also I think the fender player series beats the hell out of most guitar at that price point.

Personally if I’m going to be buying new and I want a Strat like guitar I’d much rather look towards Charvel, you get a multitude of pick up choices, a 24 fret neck, either no trem or you can go up to a high end floyd rose system, and you still get the tradition strat look and at a better price.

@ORION2180

4 жыл бұрын

And Seymour Duncan's

@mikeygee4564

4 жыл бұрын

For that money too you could get a badass very customized Kiesel

@JELIFISH19

4 жыл бұрын

A "Strat-like guitar" is different than a Strat

@AbyssTyrannus

4 жыл бұрын

JELIFISH19 It may be different but it’s a similar concept, I like Strats I started on a Squier strat, but if I were to go to a guitar that’s again similar, I’d much rather pay around 1k and get a good bang for the buck Charvel DK24

@AbyssTyrannus

4 жыл бұрын

bob733333 Hell I wish I did

Well put! I never thought about what a small slice of the market these Ultras will be limited to! The good news is maybe I’ll find a steal on an Elite! Which by the way I thought were awesome! And yes, you’re right they absolutely should have used SS frets on both models!

Yes! Exactly what I thought when I saw the previews of the new guitars. My old Japanese strat already has all of the new wiring options which I did fairly cheaply. The new necks look very nice, but nothing groundbreaking. If I had money to burn I would consider the HSS with fatter sounding pickups, but you can buy that stuff yourself.

Personally I think we have come to the point of amps being so far ahead of the guitars that the guitar has become a moot point when gearing up. Give me a great amp, a couple pedals and a 100$ guitar that feels like a part of me in the hand and I'm good. The only time I've ever yearned for an "elite" guitar was my friend's PRS custom 24. It was absolutely stunning but it also was the best feeling/playing guitar I've ever experienced.

@mesabman

3 жыл бұрын

I will definitely have to differ with you regarding guitars. While the amp is responsible for the majority of the tone, the guitar can and will also make a huge difference. When playing through my awesome Marshall JVM410 Joe Satriani amp, when I play my PRS Custom 24 or McCarty 594, they sound great. But when I plug in my Ernie Ball Music Man SABRE (best sounding AND playing guitar I've ever played in 36 years), it sounds very different than my PRS's or my Fender Strat.

i can get a MIM Strat that does the job very very well compared to that price

@drexlspivey5828

4 жыл бұрын

I've owned 2 American Strats and my next Strat is 100% going to be the Player Strat which is MIM. GUITAR GUITAR in Glasgow is currently selling the polar white one for £490 brand new and apparently the parts are the same as the old American Standard I had, but I'm not going to praise it too much until I try it

When I look at my Fender Deluxe Strat, I really wonder why I should upgrade? I have noiseless pickups, locking tuners, flatter fingerboard, contoured neck heel... all of that for less than 900 Euros. I'm sure the Ultra is a nice guitar, but I can't see a point for me to switch.

I have a MIM Nashville Telecaster Deluxe. It has the locking tuners, independent saddles, noisless pickups, contoured heel and 5 way switching. It sounds great and plays brilliantly, i dont see the incentive to pay three times that price for a new ultra.

American Special is the best line & they discontinued it. I chose it over all the others & it was the lowest priced of the USA made Strats/Teles.

@TcSomers

4 жыл бұрын

Squiers are so good these days I don't even mind. They have sales on Bullets for $100-130 and they're absolutely killer values. If you have the know-how to mod yourself, you can make yourself something Fender wished they could produce.

@benkenobi_

4 жыл бұрын

I'm glad I got an American pro before these came out, it's a strat but it's the HH model so it's way different than any other strat I've used

@soyborne.bornmadeandundone1342

4 жыл бұрын

I think the great Jeff buckly played a tele for the most part that was basically of the same quality of a american special line. If a legend like that dug it then you're onto something there Tony.

The " even less noiseless pickups " didn't win you over Daryll?

Darrell, I know that you love your Teles, and you have that beautiful SuperStrat, but why not some reviews of a great brand that comes from your home country of Canada. Their electrics are assembled in the US, that great brand is Godin (properly pronounced Go-dan) I feel they can compete well with Fender and Gibson. They just don't spend a lot on advertising and that is why they aren't a household name, but the quality is definitely there. I know you did the Multiac video, but they have other lines both electrically and acoustically as I am sure you are aware of. Would love your honest opinion of them. Keep rocking it! You have one of the best channels out there in KZread land!

Can someone told me where we can buy that kind of guitar hanger that we see on the wall. I am from Quebec

I totally agree with you, but I still love fender strats!

@billhannum4117

4 жыл бұрын

Ya it the pisspoor marketing but fender still makes great guitars

The absolute best thing about this new line is that texas tea finish. But they are so not worth that asking price.

@geoffmorrissey5818

4 жыл бұрын

CrocLikesSmallThings that Texas Tea... especially w the tele pick guard is so tasty!

@drexlspivey5828

4 жыл бұрын

I like the plasma red burst, but I used to laugh at Gibson for pricing their Les Pauls at £2000 and now Fender are one model away from doing the same with their Strats I had an American Standard which I bought for £810 brand new in 2009 which means their price for a top end non custom model has doubled in 10 years

20 years ago I went about building my own guitar because any strat I played could not stay in tune. The basic design by fender is OK. but it always takes some fine blueprint work to get things working. I recently purchased a PRS SE custom 24 and I find that everything I always wanted is in this package. It cost just over a grand but as nice as some earlier PRS core models. The only thing required out of the case in the SE 24 was to snug up the tuners a pinch Intonation is superb. Neck playability is 100 percent greater than American Standard high end Fender models. Thanks for you excellent coverage!!

I’m so glad you made this video I feel the same way about this new line. My buddy was like “ check these out, there awesome” So I watch a couple vids in the new ultra series and responded..”there is nothing fender is doing that is new. New for fender maybe, new to the individual models maybe, but new for guitars? Not at all “ The only feature I liked was the electronics layout for the jazzmaster ultra, that was pretty smart. Depending on how those noiseless jazzmaster puppies sound. Anyway, I rant. Thanks for the vids brother, keep up the great content! Cheers!

lol, Darrell's review & commentary was WAY more interesting than Fender's announcement was! :)

Darrell: you’re right. All the other KZread guitar folks are gushing about the Ultras. You’d think Fender invented sliced bread.

@dirkda2451

4 жыл бұрын

Leo fender kind of invented the sliced bread of the guitar world and now Fender pretends every year they have done it again when they launch that years "new" range of guitars

I figured they would maybe mount the bridge pickup at the correct angle, like on the Hendrix model. A proper reverse headstock would be cool also, something trim like a tele.

Darrel, what about the Fender Strat American Professional ll Dark Night? Does it hit the mark better?

Fender just like Gibson don’t listen and will never learn.

@williamwinn948

4 жыл бұрын

but they both sell guitars like crazy and what Gibson is doing for the vets is pretty cool.

@aljanecko

4 жыл бұрын

William Winn I didn’t see what Gibson was doing?

@aljanecko

4 жыл бұрын

Fenders mostly stay in tune, Gibson maybe 1 song and it’s out, I use String Butlers on all my Les Pauls, that helps.

I’d rather spend $2k specking a Warmoth tele with cherry picked hardware... And I’d probably still spend less.

@thhunter

4 жыл бұрын

Way less.

@jeffreybiscoe6

4 жыл бұрын

Just did a Jazzmaster build with all my specs ,top line shielding nice pick ups made in USA original specs on wiring + it did end up about ,$1,800 in it & not done yet . Only exception I didn't do stainless frets from a bad experience I seen someone have on a non roasted neck. I probably should of as mines roasted I don't think it'll move .

@benfowler2127

4 жыл бұрын

jeffrey biscoe Yeah, the neck I want is around $600+ I think. Roasted flame maple, the gold frets, turqoise dot inlays. I wanna do that with a roasted alder tele body, painted probably seafoam green(maybe) and all gold hardware, locking ratio tuners, bone nut. Babicz Humbucker bridge. Maybe fishman bucker, but probably a bareknuckle with metal cover. Then again, I like Billy Gibbons beat up looking tele with the aged hardware. 🤷🏽‍♂️

Darrell, you made some great points! and I agree. Two things though that attracted me to the American Elite Strat is the Compound Radius and S-1 switch which are great. Also... the comfort of the Strat although many competors can match this. I play humbuckers (LP Deluxe & Ovation VXT) but the Strat is also very nice and perfect for some of my songs.

Great points Darrell! If I had to guess, I'd guess their target market is dads who grew up playing shredding machines and are now considering buying a Fender for the first time. And since they finally have money for nice things, and don't want to stray too far from shredders, these are very, very tempting. ....errr... at least that's my reasoning for wanting one :) That and that sweet Texas tea!

I think of this series as being a professional player’s instrument. 6 saddle bridge is essential. Noiseless pickups are necessary for a lot of playing situations and easier access and flatter radius up high are useful. The color schemes are trying too hard and you can find similar attributes elsewhere for less but this series still makes sense to me - a refined instrument without all that pretentious custom shop weirdness.

Love your videos, Darrell but I'm going to be the contrarian here. I agree the changes from the Elite to the Ultra are modest (I have a theory they were looking to get rid of the name "Elite"-which has negative connotations). But saying a Korean made Schecter has the same features as the Ultra is the same as saying my Hyundai has the same features as a BMW, or my Timex keeps time as well as a Rolex. It's true, but besides the point. There are always people who will pay more for the classic: an American made Fender! And there are no other American made Fenders that offer S1 switching, better neck, belly cut, noiseless pickups, etc. Nothing wrong with charging an upgrade rom the Fender Am Pro series for those features. Personally, I have a lot more love for my Ultra than for my American Pro, which I just sold.

@MohnishGroverMusic

3 жыл бұрын

fender clean is the best

@ShamanicSavant

3 жыл бұрын

I have the SSS version in Arctic Pearl with a rosewood board. It's a great guitar :)

@danielferrer9464

3 жыл бұрын

Think you misunderstood, he wasn't comparing a Hyundai to a BMW, but a Hyundai to a Toyota. Some people don't even prefer noiseless pickups, so throw that out the door. He also detailed the aesthetics that other companies are offering that match Fenders, for MUCH less. Better neck?? G&L has a better feeling neck these days, for $700 less. American made no longer has the same notion, unless you are hopelessly nostalgic, it is ALL IN YOUR HEAD.

Hi Darrell, interesting video. Can you please suggest a strat style alternative with S1 switching?

Your idea of vintage line and ultra line all the way from Squier to American (and up) is spot on. I'm a Fender guy but am completely thrown by their multiple lines and tiers of guitars, and have never owned anything more pricey than a Mexican strat. I'm finally in that 500 to 1000 dollar market and would love to get a used American strat but starting to look elsewhere.

What do you recommend if I want to spend $2000 on a stratocaster style guitar with single coil pickups? What are the other choices that'd be superior the ultra series? Price isn't too big of a concern but I'd like to get the best bang for my bucks. Thanks Darrell.

@mikecraig8442

3 жыл бұрын

Seriously, I hope this didn't dissuade you from the American Ultra. Stainless steel frets a deal killer? C'mon - Fender is selling the same guitar in 2021 with SS frets for - guess how much - $2300, and calling it the American Ultra Luxe. A lot of folks play 2+ hrs/day for 10 years on nickel frets. Why not refret with SS if/when you wear out your NS frets? So much crazy hype about SS and roasted maple..... AHHHHH.

Fender like Gibson are hard to get excited about. It's always more of the same, just for more money. I'll stick with my Schecter Apocalypse and Solar Artist with locking tuners and Evertune bridge

@truckercowboyed2638

4 жыл бұрын

Have u tried the schecter omen extreme?? The diamond series as its also known

@chadbouterse8617

4 жыл бұрын

Ola makes on damn nice guitar!

@d.sandell2555

4 жыл бұрын

Those Solars are nice guitars.

@Leo_ofRedKeep

4 жыл бұрын

Fender, like Gibson, sell to those who want to show off how they could buy the top level thing from the legendary name. It may not be too different, it's all about having "one of them".

@mcspankies1799

4 жыл бұрын

Honestly for me i get excited for their vintage range guitars but there too expensive on both ends

My buddy has an elite strat, I have an American standard. Somehow it is a huge difference!! Wish I had $2700 to upgrade, but I love the get 50’s in my standard. Not sure show they are targeting with these?!?

I really want a jazzmaster a tele and strat mix with strat body and the jazz ,tele and strat pickups where you can blend different pickups together

Did you play one, or is this only a review of the marketing plan?

Here's keeping it real... buy a squier SE it has the full size strat body ... upgrade the tuners to Graphtech locking tuners, new nut .. and a super v bladerunner tremelo This is all the guitar you will ever need and ultimately you'll have a better guitar for way less money than 99% of what's on the wall in every guitar store. Are you Eddie Van Halen? Are you Steve Vai? Are you Joe Satriani? The answer is No... so this is relatively all the guitar that the majority of home musicians need.

@captaindeadpool1640

4 жыл бұрын

Don't forget to roll and polish the frets.

@voxelraster

4 жыл бұрын

I have 6 of those Squier SE models, the CSX ones that were built by AXL, and have upgraded 4 of them so far. All of them have necks made with what looks like old growth Maple with nice figuring. The neck carve feels wonderful on every one too!

@shumakern

4 жыл бұрын

@@voxelraster I have two of them. A white one and a sunburst

@shumakern

4 жыл бұрын

@@voxelraster Both of mine are exactly like your describing old growth maple with beautiful figuring. They both are the CSX serial from the axle plant. They are 18 or 20 yrs old and in mint condition. I play them every day and wouldn't trade them for anything. So many people spend so much money on the guitar thinking it will make them a better player when they need to just learn how to play it and invest in a really good amp.

@voxelraster

4 жыл бұрын

@@shumakern From what I've read, white is the rarest color. I have 2 sunbursts, 3 black and 1 white one. The white one has the the most flamed neck - you'd have to pay a fortune to get a neck like that from most builders!

I totally agree with you. Great editorial on the new Ultras. I really like the Texas Tea colors of the Strat and Tele but I can’t overlook the outrageous price for what it is that is included in that cost.

I just purchased an Elite Strat, then this one comes out. Should I return the Elite and buy an Ultra instead or just love my Elite guitar :)

1:19 is Darrel.... NOT SMILING??? P.S. luv ur vids :D

darrell must be feeling a little under the weather, get well soon

i agree with you darrell. From the "ultra" name I would expect something like ultra ergonomic (an ultra confortable Telecaster), ultra contoured neck joint, new ultra new trem system, ultra modern fretboard (maybe with 24 frets), new ultra styles (a seven string Fender, why not?!)

I was pretty excited to buy the Fender Tele Ultra. Thank you Darrell for opening my eyes cause I realized that I shouldn't be paying an extra 1200-800$ just for the logo. please keep on making these awesome videos!! Kudos :)

As a total beginner, I really appreciate this honesty.

@somethingonthemind6593

4 жыл бұрын

Hang up loser bro tfgghfkgvb

@somethingonthemind6593

4 жыл бұрын

Feel like you need to get some pants

@ItsaDaPope-a

4 жыл бұрын

@@somethingonthemind6593 Eat my shorts. Nobody tells me to get pants.

YEAH... Everything Darrell just said!!!

Hey Darrell, thanks for the honest video. I was disappointed too. Hoped that this was the chance to see a high end series with roasted maple neck etc like a Music Man Cutlass... Can you give some examples of guitars that are just like the Ultra series but way cheaper?

What is the blue strat you have ? Seems great ...thanks

You're right Darrell, if I'm spending $2500 on a guitar hello PRS silver sky!!

@charlie-obrien

4 жыл бұрын

Then you are buying a Strat

@greekfreak1980

4 жыл бұрын

You could spend $ 1,600 on a Kiesel Delos (their Strat-style model) which is USA custom made,decked out with roasted neck,ss-frets,ergonomic neckheel (no big neck block), comes with a variety of bridges (from Hipshot Contour fixed to GOTOH 510), pickup options (besides their own pickups,you can send them any aftermarket pickup,they will install them and do also custom wirings) and invest the rest in a good amp

@Theylieohio

4 жыл бұрын

@@charlie-obrien made by PRS....Big difference!

I like the old Mexican Standard Strats better than the newer Player series.

I totally agree with you! I actually liked that Fender finally placed some modern features, but the price point is indeed incompatible. I also think the "made in the U.S.A." thing is getting insignificant with so many great guitars being produced in Korea, Indonesia, and now even China.

I totally agree with you. If you noticed this year they changed the names this year in order to charge more. If you noticed the American Standard had the tummy cut and the American Pro got rid of it meanwhile they jacked the price up