What’s common to a Fender Stratocaster ’57, Gibson Lez Paul, Gibson ES 355 , Fender Telecaster ’57, Gretch White Falcon, Gibson EDS 1275 ? Leave aside the fact that these guitars have great build quality,etcetera. The Price; they cost a ‘bomb’ and one can feel the sweat dripping down the temples, even if you imagine buying one of them.
The staggering price is, what I believe, due to the brand equity. After all what are the key features in an electric guitar ( without going into the details of it ) ?
- Pickups
- Properly functioning tuning pegs
- A proper fret board (radius, scalloped or otherwise, straight as a ruler)
- Correctly set saddles
I am not talking about the gold plated ones, like Robert Cray’s signature Stratocaster or BB King’s ‘ Lucille’.
When I was buying my first ever guitar, I was in a dilemma. I had limited funds to splurge, from what seemed then, and wanted to own an electric guitar. So the question was – Buy a cheap stratocaster copy or not buy one altogether. Then I decided to build my own guitar; call it taking inspiration from Brian May of the famous British band, Queen. Anyways, so I bought parts from a local dealer and caught hold of a local guitar expert from one of the shops. I have to admit, the guy was very skillful when it came to fixing any guitar; so evidently, he was my man for the job. The bugger did a fantastic job and that’s how I got my first electric guitar. I did not use a knitting needle for a whammy, which was apparently used by Brian May in the initial days of his career. I said to myself, ‘bloody hell, he’s May and I’m August born’; lousy joke,eh ?
This goes out to all potential buyers who cannot afford expensive guitars,- buy a decent piece and separately buy good pickups to replace the factory fitted ones.
If I had disposable income, I would definitely buy a Fender Stratocaster ’57 Reissue and a Gibson ES 355 Vintage. Owning one of these beauties is definitely a matter of pride, translating into joy when you strum one.
Hopefully, someday, a reduced tax/duty over the Western music instrument category, becomes a reality. I’m sure the loss of revenue from this can be made up in some other possible way.
Very true brother…..
i’l gift u one someday……..