Introduction

For new guitar enthusiasts, choosing the right entry-level electric guitar can be overwhelming. This article aims to help aspiring guitarists navigate the market by comparing two renowned brands: Yamaha Squier and Fender. We will explore the pros and cons of each, focusing on affordability, quality, and ease of setup.

Yamaha Squier

Overview

Yamaha Jet Cort and Harley-Benton models are highly recommended for beginners. These guitars offer decent quality and an adjustable action, making them perfect for those just starting their journey in guitar playing. The brand offers a range of products, with the Squier Stratocaster being a standout choice for newcomers. The recent Squier Stratocaster with a hard tail fixed bridge is especially praised for its ease of tuning, which can significantly reduce the frustration often associated with beginners.

Value for Money

When it comes to entry-level guitars, Yamaha frequently outshines its competitors. For the same price point, you can find a Yamaha model that provides superior quality and performance compared to many other brands. If you're looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option, Yamaha Squier guitars are highly recommended.

Consistency and Quality Control

A crucial aspect of any beginner's guitar is consistent quality control. Yamaha stands out in this regard, with their stringent quality standards ensuring that each guitar meets high standards before distribution. While spending significantly more can indeed yield better instruments, for the price point, Yamaha guitars consistently outperform their competitors.

Fender Electric Guitars

Overview

Referring to new Fender guitars, the options may not be as appealing as they once were. Many industry experts recommend opting for used Fender guitars or Gibson guitars instead. These brands have been purchased by venture capitalists, with a concerning decline in product quality. The quality control in these companies has reportedly suffered, resulting in subpar products.

Used Guitars

When considering used guitars, it's important to remember that the condition and care of the instrument can vary greatly. Even the same model can have different levels of maintenance and repair history, which can significantly impact its performance and sound.

Personal Experiences with Yamaha and Squier Guitars

Yamaha Guitars

While I have not played many Yamaha guitars, the ones I have tried did not exhibit outstanding action. However, quality can vary, and there may be exceptions. For instance, my Squire Strat has been finely tuned and adjusted, making it easy to play. Although it lacks a vibrato arm, it is a much more reliable option in this regard. The Squire Strat's bridge is easy to adjust, and the guitar can be easily upgraded with tuners and other accessories.

Squire Telecaster

My rhythm guitarist uses a Squire Telecaster, which I played after a thorough setting up. The neck was very straight, and the intonation returned to perfect condition with no further adjustments needed. This speaks to the ease of maintenance and set-up of Squire Telecasters, which are comparable to their American counterparts.

Conclusion

For beginner guitarists, Yamaha Squier guitars stand out as a top choice due to their consistent quality, affordability, and ease of setup. While it's understandable to seek out iconic brands like Fender and Gibson, one must consider the current quality of their new products. Yamaha guitars consistently deliver high-quality instruments that are well-suited for those just starting their guitar journey.