I have one around the house for the grand kids to play so they leave the "good" basses alone. This can be fixed by spraying an electronic contact cleaner on the internals. Here are the specifications of the Squier Affinity Stratocaster as listed on the official Fender website. Neck Material: Maple 4. Cookies help us deliver our Services. The maple one looks amazing, I freakin' want one! 2002 Fender Squier 20th Anniversary standard Stratocaster guitar metallic black. Yes, please. This Affinity Strat is perfect if you’re a beginner, a hobby player that has a limited budget, or a working musician that wants a backup guitar. May 14, 2013 #2. davidgoldman. This guitar, when played often and maintained, will last for many, many years of playing. More about pricing later. The pickguard was a simple, cut plastic shape. Hey guys, I'm new to the guitar world, i've been practicing for the past few months on my old classic guitar. 70 (42) 42 product ratings - Squier Affinity Stratocaster, Maple Fingerboard, Black. Squier by Fender Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack, Laurel Fingerboard, Candy Apple Red, with Gig Bag, Amp, Strap, Cable, Picks, and Fender Play 4.6 out of 5 stars 611 $331.70 $ 331 . The frets themselves didn’t feel as smooth and polished under the strings, either. Since then, they have have been wildly popular in all styles of music. The tuners, although stable and functional, don’t turn as smoothly, and there seems to be a little looseness in them, compared to the Standards. Learn more about Fender electric basses. It was a great little workhorse that suited for the first few years I was learning. Dual humbuckers give you a solid, thick tone that can handle any level of gain you feel like using. A quick Google search will give you many options for replacement parts. Get the best deals on musical instruments and recording equipment at Sweetwater. I love recording music and filming guitar covers and I occasionally post them on YouTube. Whether or not this matters is entirely up to you. If you want an entry level guitar they’re a good entry level guitar. For example, when I first played this guitar, the neck still felt a little rough. Fender literally wrote the book on electric basses, laying the foundation for musical innovation and evolution. Choose to learn from a list of great guitar lessonsand become an aspiring artist or a causal player, or let the guitar decide. Dear Valued Customers, welcome to emusic.com.my! Few would argue that this is a great, versatile guitar all around. It packs a solid poplar body, too. Body Finish: Polyurethane 3. I would imagine in the years since they have marginally improved somewhat. I hope you enjoyed this in-depth Squier Affinity Stratocaster Review. The Pacifica is still a favorite today among players of various styles. This covers bare minimum and basic, to highly advanced and custom. You can check out this video for a full blind test comparison between different versions of the Stratocaster by Squier and Fender. Pick fro… This Player Strat is pure Stratocaster, with solid parts and components all around. Does anyone know what switch will fit the squier affinity tele - both 3 way and 4 way? Sure it may feel cheap compared to the American or Mexican Fenders and Squires with their heavier and thicker bodies but when it comes down to it, it's solid. The slightly-sharpened cutaway horns give it a more aggressive and interesting look. I’ve played Stratocasters almost exclusively for live performances, studio sessions, teaching students, creating YouTube videos, and some touring, for around 25 years. Also, because they're so cheap, you can thrash on them. 2002 Fender Squier standard 20th Anniv Stratocaster guitar RARE Shoreline Gold. I was very impressed with this Affinity Strat when I first picked it up, but I did notice some differences. Disclosure: We are a professional review site that receives compensation from the companies whose products we review. But a well-looked-after Standard can be a guitar for decades. Nut Material: Synthetic Bo… £319.00. The tuner knobs felt very delicate like they could break easily. I can tell you that this is a true Stratocaster in every way, although there are some differences between models. It sounds very good stock but the pickups hum so I'm changing them out. To cut down on costs and make the guitar more affordable, there are some variations in components and quality of parts. Messages: 3. Without the Telecaster’s original creation years ago, your favorite electric guitar may not have ever existed… While other guitar manufacturers had been mass-producing instruments since the early 1900s, the Telecaster electric guitar was: 1. the first mass-produced solid-body electric guitar, 2. the first mass-produced gui… review of the Fender Player Stratocaster here, Bridge Pickup: Standard Single-Coil Strat, Middle Pickup: Standard Single-Coil Strat, Controls: 5-Position Blade: Position 1. For more serious players or people who are looking for the best of the best, you might want to consider spending a little more upfront for a real Fender Stratocaster. Joined: Jan 11, 2013 Location: Lima. The Telecaster has only two pickups compared to the Stratocaster. The control knobs didn’t fit as well onto the pots, and they would often turn past their number markers. Between the Stratocaster and Telecaster, players always have their favorites. The site may not work properly if you don't, If you do not update your browser, we suggest you visit, Press J to jump to the feed. Middle and Neck Pickup, Position 5. The volume and tone pots work well but can start to sound scratchy after normal use. You’re now paying for top of the lines parts and components, exceptional attention to detail, and for a road-worthy, professional guitar. Thanks for visiting. First, the PJ pickup configuration gives you an extra bridge pickup from a Jazz bass. Fender Player Stratocaster is priced at $699. If that's you, consider a Strat in a HSS (humbucker/single/single) format. Fret Size: Medium Jumbo 11. The edges were not beveled or as smooth as the pickguards on the Standards. That could set off alarm bells, but at th… Overall, it’s a very well-rounded guitar for beginners and would make for an excellent first guitar. Your basic Stratocaster, whether classic or modern in styling, has the same electronic layout. The Squier Affinity Series has been relied upon by thousands of new guitarists around the world as their first guitar or bass. Make way for a full-fledged beginner-guitarist’s package with the Squier by Fender Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Electric Guitar Pack! Here are the specifications of the Squier Affinity Stratocaster as listed on the official Fender website. The Affinity is an amazing value for anyone needing a straight-up Strat that’s priced right. Now Fender has this new great Player series (which look absolutely stunning). In the 80s, players were very divided. This is a forum where guitarists, from novice to experienced, can explore the world of guitar through a variety of media and discussion. You can easily upgrade this if you want, in an endless amount of ways. Body Material: Alder 2. Squier Affinity Telecaster Review. Design-wise, this Affinity Stratocaster is nearly-identical to all other Squier and Fender Stratocasters. You’ll also see a big difference in the way each guitar handles loud volumes and higher gain/distortion/overdrive settings. The edges of the frets also didn’t feel as smooth when I ran through some scales and chords across the neck. Telecasters are a favorite among country music players. Sollophonic Friend of Leo's. You will notice a difference in quality and consistency of tone. The Affinity range from Squier is a second run up the ladder of Fender Squier guitars. Neck Scale Length: 25.5” (648 mm) 7. If you have guitar related questions, use the "Search" field or ask the community. That upgrade gives you better quality, better pickups, and a better-sounding and feeling guitar all around. I had to take them off and slightly widen the pot’s arm spacing to get them to fit correctly. To make sure this guitar was in reach of every level of player, Fender started making different versions for different customers. Even some blues players have used Telecasters in their songs. If you’re looking for something more serious than that, IMHO they’re not more than what they are. If you can afford the standard instead, that's a much better guitar. Stratocasters first arrived on the music scene in the mid-50s. The newly-redesigned Bullet Strat is ideal for first-timer players looking for an easy-to-play, affordable electric guitar. Hi all! Except for the jack issues, all of these were somewhat expected at this lower price. Their Gio line is proof that shows how great they are at this. The Squier Affinity Telecaster is a good guitar and with a price tag that screams come and get me. The pickups, pickup selector options, volume and tone controls, and design are all pretty much the same. Like any guitar, the more time you put into playing it, the more playable it gets. Posted by 6 years ago. Unlike a typical Strat, the Telecaster instead has a single-cutaway on the body. I’m Dan Hoang. $59.99 shipping. Using cleaner tones can get you a better sound if that’s the style of playing you plan on. 3 saddle vintage style brass bridge. Using the #2 and #4 positions on the pickup selector can help remove some of the hiss and noise since those positions use two pickups together which helps to cancel out noise. Although there are some “rough edges” on this guitar to a point, it is very playable. My squire affinity with humbuckle (2010) serves me to this day. Posts: 3,286. Not only does this super-affordable electric guitar pack guarantee a perfect start with your electric guitar lessons, but also serves as the perfect combo pack to liven up school bands, casual jam sessions and small gatherings without too much of a fuss. They play well, look great, and sound good with high gain. The first thing I wanted to look at was the parts that make a Squier Standard Strat these days, and, as with any guitar, the heart of its sound is the wood that’s used. There is no debating that both are excellent guitars for many reasons. As I noted, to make this guitar more affordable some parts and components had to change. Neck Finish: Satin Urethane 5. The Affinity Telecaster, like the Strat, is made with an Alder body and a maple neck. If you hope to drop by our physical store. We’ll also compare it to an actual Fender Stratocaster to see if it can stack up to the real deal. Wow that’s kind of a perspective question. This is truly a guitar that will grow with you. The Fenders will handle these noticeably better. This particular Gio has the dual-cutaway styling of a Stratocaster but in a more modern package. However, some of these issues would be a problem for working musicians, and more serious guitar players that need solid, reliable and sturdy gear. The Squire guitars can be hit or miss at times due to quality control issues in factories overseas. However, for those starting out, unsure of their ability, and unwilling to meet the initial outlay, Squier's Affinity range offers a slightly cheaper route into guitar ownership. The Affinity will last you a good few years - it's not a toy. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Bridge Pickup, Position 2. Squier Paranormal Carbronita Telecaster Thinline, Olympic White. The pickups sound a little noisier, and the tone sounds thin in comparison, with lower overall volume. You have three single-coil pickups: one slanted pickup at the bridge, one pickup in the middle, and one at the neck. I’ve been playing guitar for over 10 years now, and I’m a total nerd when it comes to gear. The Affinity Stratocaster has a tone that is undoubtedly classic Strat. MerzonR New Member! If you really want to get a Squier brand guitar, make sure it is from the Classic Vibe Series. 20 in stock. Fingerboard Material: Indian Laurel 8. If anybody has any sound recording from Squier Affinity P Bass, please let me hear . A guitar that’s meant to be played for hours, day, weeks on end for the rest of your life. Fender literally wrote the book on electric basses, laying the foundation for musical innovation and evolution. Squier Paranormal Jazz Bass ’54 - $399 Plus, they’ve kept it at a price the average person can more easily afford. I had an '06 butterscotch one when the pickguards were white on those models. A true Fender, I always considered this a slight step up from the Standard Stratocaster which is already a fantastic guitar. This also allows you to play at higher volumes and with medium and high gain for more aggressive styles of music. Fender has worked closely with Squier for many years, and this partnership has produced a great replica of the Fender Stratocaster. I would recommend this to one of my students that would want a Stratocaster, but would only use it for hobby purposes, and to learn and play the basics. im wondering, are they any good or should i just get a standard instead. The same goes for the Classic Vibe and Vintage Modified, which are built to the same quality. It’s essentially two basses for the price of one in terms of your tonal options. Only real maintenance that needed to be done was replacing the string elements after the stock elements gave in after 4 years of extensive up and down tuning. I’ve learned a ton over the years and would love to share some tips with you! Right from the moment you start playing it, you’ll feel how easy and enjoyable it is to play and why they named it as such. A great benefit with Stratocasters is how much you can customize them. I opened it up and it had 500K pots and a stock .047 cap which I changed out and put in an orange sprague.047 cap. This guitar would be a better choice for fans of Vai and Satriani, or for players that want a more modern and aggressive version of a Strat. I know the obvious difference eg. Fiddly to get it through the bridge hole and then up through the saddle. I was actually pleasantly shocked out how good they sound. One of the few differences in materials between the two is the use of maple for the fretboard on the Telecaster instead of rosewood. Depending on the style of music you want to play, these options may be a better fit. 4 in stock. For the most part, the basic design and features of the Stratocaster have remained very close to how the first ones were first produced. You can check out my full review of the Fender Player Stratocaster here. This body of this instrument is made from a wood called agathis. The Fender Player and Fender American Standard have not only a higher level of quality but are very consistent. They are both well made guitars. Thoughts on the Squier Affinity Telecaster? Definitely avoid the Squier Affinity Series. Archived. 6. If playing this guitar in a band was a must, I would recommend having all soldering connections checked at the very least. The Affinity Stratocaster is my made in China to strict build specs from Fender. Don’t let the Squire name fool you: this one is the real thing. Number of Frets: 21 10. So, naturally, it makes sense to compare the budget Squier Affinity Stratocaster to a real Fender Stratocaster to see if the copy can hold it’s own. The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it. I still keep an Affinity Strat in my collection alongside my other guitars that cost around £1000 each because it plays well and it feel more comfortable taking it to a jam night were others might borrow it. Added Squier II Contemporary Stratocaster Added Squier Stratocaster Pack Added Affinity Series Strat HSS Pack Added "Danish Pete" Honoré Telecaster FSR Added 2002 Squier Catalog (Frontline) Added MA-1 Acoustic Added MC-1 Acoustic Added SC-7 Acoustic Added SD-6 Acoustic Added SB-31 Acoustic Added Article "Affinity/Standard Tele History" April 2019 A superb gateway into the time-honored Fender® family, the Squier® Affinity Series™ Telecaster® delivers legendary design and quintessential tone for today’s aspiring guitar hero. I’m Dan Hoang. This guitar would be best for a Strat purist that wants the classic Stratocaster tone, a polished attention to detail, solid parts and components that are made for the working musician, and at a quality level that’s worthy of its higher price. The famous guitar that catalyzed the electric guitar industry to become what it is today. The quality of the tone can be a different story, though. adamsx, Jan 12, 2013 #48. The jack also started cutting out after a few uses, and I had to take the pickguard off to solder the jack connections. I also recommend replacing the tuners, the volume and tone pots, and possibly the pickups – in that order, depending on their playing style. Don’t feel bad if you had to Google it: full disclosure – so did I! I’ve owned various Stratocasters over the years, including this Affinity Stratocaster. SQUIER BULLET STRAT, BULLET MINI STRAT V2 and STRAT SS. Neck Shape: “C” Shape 6. As a multi-instrumentalist I've never had the budget to invest in a high end guitar, nor have I found the need to after I got this beauty. They have quite a following on TDPRI and I think as good if not better than the fender Mexican standards. The Squier Affinities and Standards are the modern take, the Classic Vibes and Vintage Modified are the retro option. I've played a Squier standard since then but was drawn towards the classic vibe series. The more you play this guitar, the smoother the frets feel and the more enjoyable it is to play. I believe these replace the Mexican standard series. Squier Paranormal Baritone Cabronita Telecaster in Black (Image credit: Fender) Now we’re talking! Middle Pickup, Position 4. I deboxed 5 identical models with the store owner before making my choice. Otherwise, skip it and look at other guitar brands in the same price range. The Fender Player Series guitars are made in Mexico and Fender American guitars are made in the USA. Bought a Baja Tele recently which has become my main instrument but I still kept the CV and still play it from time to time. Learn more about Fender electric basses. This guitar will give you some great classic Strat tones with a different look and feel. The flame top on this guitar gives you a very beautiful finish that is very modern and stylish. Pairing this with a humbucker in the bridge position and it gives you a very modern version of the classic Stratocaster design and tone. Some loved it and others hated it. Why so? With so many options for third party parts and components, there is no doubt that Stratocasters are the most customized guitars in music. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. If you’ve made it this far into this Squier Affinity Stratocaster review, then by now you probably already have a good idea of whether or not it’s the right choice for you. No one's going to know you're playing an Affinity. This Affinity Strat is no different. Outstanding resonance thanks to semi-hollow design. I’ve learned a ton over the years and would love to share some tips with you! I bought an Affinity Telecaster on Amazon for less than $200. Custom vintage-style pickups. I'm A bass player of 5 years and Have been looking at the squier affinity telecaster. To me it sounds better than many guitars that are all in higher price ranges. The most common parts people will customize their Stratocaster with are: pickups, string tuners, and pickguards. By using our Services or clicking I agree, you agree to our use of cookies. The holiday season is finally here! I find myself picking it up and playing it often. Taking its cue from the groundbreaking guitar tweaking of Edward Van Halen, the immensely affordable Squier Classic Vibe ‘70s Strat features a … As a major Stratocaster and love of the guitar (I have a Stratocaster tattoo on my arm), I have no problem acknowledging that this is a good, sound replication of the original Stratocaster. Fender's Squier Affinity is an alder body which is very lightweight and has a bolt-on c-shaped maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard. This is the Strat to last a lifetime and encourage the best out of you, each and every time you pick it up. My real only gripe with it was the top loading bridge - some may find it easier but for me it was a PITA and not a quick restring. They sound like more expensive telecasters; the differences are things you can live with: the tuners aren't as solid, the fret ends aren't as well-finished, and the body is a bit thinner (and lighter; I actually prefer this). However, it still may not be for everyone, so I would suggest you check out some of these other Squier Affinity Stratocaster alternatives. I really like the Affinity guitars. As far as features, this Affinity Strat has the same features as an American Standard, so you’re not missing out on anything in this aspect. I mainly play acoustic and bass but wanted an electric to use for music production. Please feel free to contact us via Whatsapp or Facebook Messenger for your loved items. Welcome to r/guitar, a community devoted to the exchange of guitar related information and entertainment. There is no gig bag, guitar case or other accessories included. Squier makes an Affinity with that blue finish, with a maple or rosewood board. Free shipping. Replacing the pots altogether in a common upgrade and another option if you plan on playing for more than hobby purposes. This guitar would be a better choice for players that like Strat tones, but want to rock out and play higher gain music. All three have different tones that can be more suited to different styles of guitar. Teles are also very popular among southern rock players for the same reason. I feel this classic design can fit into almost any genre of music and has been used extensively in Rock, Blues, Country, Indie, Pop, R&B and even Metal (with replacement pickups). Messages: 3. From elemental Stratocaster and Telecaster guitars to Precision and Jazz basses (and even the student-friendly Bronco Bass), the very best in Squier value is right here." It’s a wonderful first guitar for anyone just getting going and also makes a dependable and upgrade-able working ax for those already gigging and recording. I turned a 2002 BSB from this Into this "Affinity series guitars and basses present the greatest and most time-honored Fender models with absolutely the greatest Squier value. Joined: Apr 24, 2016 Location: Space. ... help Reddit App Reddit coins Reddit premium Reddit gifts. If they planned to use it in a band, I would recommend the Fender Player or higher, due to quality and consistency, which affects reliability. As you already know, there are many flavors of the Stratocaster. Fender Telecasters have a slightly warmer bridge pickup and do not have a middle pickup. But the important word here is different; not worse. Squier is owned by Fender and produces affordable versions of their guitars that are manufactured overseas. $229.99. Squier Pine body, gloss polyester finish. This guitar was a favorite among certain rock and metal bands in the 80s. I’ve been playing guitar for over 10 years now, and I’m a total nerd when it comes to gear. If you can spend a little more on a vm or classic id recommend thay. Because of the bridge humbucker, you do lose some of the classic Strat ones in the neck and neck/middle settings. Thoughts on the Squier Affinity Telecaster? The stock pickup elements and humbuckle are great, But can vary between identical models, make sure to try and buy the squire affinity that sounds best to you. The affinity Tele was my first 'proper' electric guitar. Also, because it has only two pickups, the pickup selector only has three settings: bridge, bridge/neck, neck. This can give you the best of both worlds. Joined: Feb 1, 2007 Location: Skipton, N. Yorkshire, England. After playing Strats and teaching guitars for many years, I will tell you that this guitar will not hinder you from learning or from playing. Ahh, the mighty Telecaster. squier affinity; squier bullet; mrMcbaconshake New Member! Now, the Bullet Strat features a 25.5” scale, so those with smaller hands might want to try the short-scale Stratocaster, with its 24” scale, or the Mini Strat, which boasts a 22/75" scale. The pickups on pots on this guitar were some of the things that affect the sound. The input jack was loose and I had to tighten it. None of these made the guitar unplayable, and I don’t feel they would get in the way of a student of hobby player from learning, practicing, and playing. You'll have to go and give one a whirl to decide! Having three different pickups and five different configurations of those pickups, you have a wide range of tones on this one guitar. The main difference is quality, consistency, and attention to detail. I know virtually nothing about guitars and am looking on getting one as a beginner. Using mid-gain with this guitar can be noisy. The Squier Affinity has 2 single coil Strat pickups and one humbucking bridge pickup, a very popular pickup set up known an HSS but also dubbed Fat Strat sound. The dual-cutaway body, the signature headstock, the three-pickup layout – all very true to the original. The affinity Tele was my first 'proper' electric guitar. Just got one for my birthday a couple days ago! Compared to the Standard Stratocaster, the electronics on this Affinity Stratocaster are noticeable lower in volume, while adding more noise into your tone. Some people think the Strat bridge pickup is a bit of a weed. The Squire Affinity Stratocaster is one of the best guitars in its class and has much to offer to both beginners and experts. They are great bargains. Guitar Advise is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Although it doesn’t feel unstable or substandard in any way, the Affinity feels lighter and less “tight” than the Fender. I believe this is a fair price for the guitar, still a great value, and for a great product. Out and play higher gain music did i us via Whatsapp or Facebook Messenger for loved! Or miss at times due to quality control issues in factories overseas very! Factories overseas is to play, these options may be a guitar that ’ s kind of a perspective.. ( humbucker/single/single ) format around the house for the fretboard on the official Fender.... Paranormal Baritone Cabronita Telecaster in Black ( Image credit: Fender ) now we ’ re looking for an,! Three single-coil pickups: one slanted pickup at the very least a much better guitar or let the Squire can. Getting one as a Beginner now we ’ ll also see a big difference in and. Gig bag, guitar case or other accessories included and one at the Squier Affinity Stratocaster is to. 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