Instead of Agathis tonewood used in the bodies of Standard Squiers, Vintage Modified and Classic Vibe Strats use better materials like Alder (traditionally used in Fender Strats) and Basswood. The Les Paul has a 24.75-inch scale length, while the Stratocaster has a 25.5-inch scale length. If you are gonna play strat I say just save up for a fender. While Squier has a reputation for offering beginner models, gigging models, and affordable premium/custom/reissue models (if that makes sense), Epiphone has always put out gig-worthy guitars, with their highest end guitars actually getting into the Gibson and Fender brands territory. We take our job seriously. Some guitars from each manufacturer are more suited for beginners. While you may already understand the basic differences between the Les Paul and the Strat, this article is going to take a look at each of these differences in depth to decide which guitar is truly better for you. Many variations exist for each model. One part Squier Jaguar neck, (very similar in look and feel to a jazz neck) maple neck with a rosewood fret board and block inlays. Squier Stratocaster vs Epiphone SG? Both the Stratocaster and the Les Paul come with the ability to choose a range of pickup configurations, but their classic pickups are what makes these guitars different from other electric guitars on the market. On the other hand, the Les Paul has a glued-in neck, which takes more attention to detail during manufacturing time. The Stratocaster is a lighter guitar with a wide range of sounds that could comfortably fit into any playing style or any style of music. Squier Bullet Mustang HH, the cheaper option, tends to get more favorable reviews than Epiphone Les Paul Special-ii [4.7 vs 4.6 ]. And is the Les Paul or Stratocaster better for beginners? They include picks, a 10W miniamp, and some other starter stuff. Obviously this is a question that will receive many subjective replies, but I can give you my personal opinion if that helps. The same kind of player who is interested in one may be interested in the other. So, how to you choose when you are just starting out? Considering price range and quality, the Epiphone LP-100 is more comparable to the Stratocaster, because the LP-100 is a basic version of the standard Les Paul. Page 2 of 2 < Prev 1 2. These dual humbuckers are controlled by a tone knob, a pickup selector, and two volume knobs, which are easy to access, ensuring that you can control the volume and tonal quality of your instrument with confidence and ease. So Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster tends to get more favorable ⭐ reviews than Epiphone Les Paul Standard, as seen on the chart below. But, I’m afraid to get it because I don’t want to get another guitar that is essentially going to give me the same, or very similar, results (because both are inexpensive beginners’ guitars). This is a great middle-of-the-road choice for guitarists who like the Strat vibe but want a thicker tone more like you'll get out of a Les Paul. As I’ve noted, the Epiphone LP Standard is a much higher-quality guitar than the Squier Standard Strat. In my opinion, the Squier Standard Strat is better compared to a guitar like the Epiphone LP-100, which is a stripped-down version of the Epi Les Paul Standard. Fender/Squier vs. Gibson/Epiphone Discussion in 'Squier Stratocasters' started by juks, Nov 23, 2020. Again, I own and love both, so I have nothing bad to say about either. Our writing team has deep experience in the musical space, specifically with guitars and “other lutes”. With an instrument at an affordable price range for most people, you would expect to see poor quality construction around the neck of the guitar. The Standard Squier Stratocaster offers musician an Agathis body combined with a maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard. Gibson is hands down better than Epiphone. It utilizes okoume in place of mahogany for the body and neck, as well as a pair of open-coil humbuckers controlled via a three-way switch. Check the alley behind a blues bar. The LP-100 has a bolt-on neck compared to the set neck you'll see on Epiphone Standard Les Pauls. As you’d expect, price varies widely in every category. In other words, the Les Paul requires less work when it comes to tuning and maintaining tuning when compared to the Stratocaster. Les Paul comes with Gibson’s Tune-o-Matic fixed bridge, which has two adjustable posts with a bar in-between them, which contains the individual string saddles. In case you’re not exactly sure what the key differences between each guitar is, here’s a quick little chart for you to look at: Les Paus are heavier guitars that have a thicker sound that’s perfect for any genre of music, even though it is mainly used in heavier styles of music. Which is higher quality? If it is a comparison to Gibson, and Squire for a first guitar, I would go with the Squire based on price alone. In fact, many Strat lovers seem to think they give MIM Fenders a challenge. Otherwise, the MIM Strat and Epi LP Standard are similarly priced guitars, both of excellent quality, and either will serve intermediate players and gigging musicians well. Any of the guitars you would choose in either the Squier and Epiphone lineup will be reasonably comfortable to play and this is one of the reasons I recommend them. Just a simple video comparing two affordable guitars back to back that I bought on a whim, mainly to see if they are any good at all or not. So Epiphone SG-Special tends to get more favorable ⭐ reviews than Squier Affinity Telecaster, as seen on the chart below. As for the Les Paul, there is a single cutaway on the instrument, which also allows musicians for easier access to high notes. This alignment of strings is highly commended by musicians because it helps the strings stay in tune for a long period of time. The traditional Stratocaster comes with three single coil pickups, one of the neck, one in the middle, and one on the bridge. I am going to assume you are comparing an Squire and an Epiphone guitar, and not the Gibson Les Paul. I am very curious to see which is “better” (for me). I agree for the most part, but I do like those Classic Vibe and Vintage Modified Squiers. Beginners may find it easier to deal with the LP-100, as it features a fixed bridge compared to the vintage tremolo found on the Squier. The other part is an Epiphone custom Thunderbird body. When comparing these two guitars together, the Stratocaster is a lot easier to physically manufacturer, because the Le Paul has a slimmer, contoured body that’s comprised from a single sheet of wood, which usually is alder or ash. I bought the Fender Strat Starter Kit, and I’m itching for something different. Still, it sounds and players really good for a guitar in its price range, which is why I consider it an excellent guitar for beginners. If you’re an intermediate guitarist or a beginner with a few extra bucks in your pocket, consider the Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop PRO. This means an Epiphone LP Standard is really a mid-level guitar, and I believe the better comparison when it comes to quality is between the Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop PRO and the Fender Player Stratocaster. It’s more common than not that beginning guitarists confuse the two instruments and assume that at the end of the day, the Les Paul and the Strat are the same instruments. The Strat has a bolt-on neck, which makes the entire manufacturing process a lot easier, while also providing a strong connection between the body and the neck. Les Pauls have a heavier feel to me, and I feel like I fight with them a little more. ESP LTD ec1000 Review: Should This Be Your Next Electric Guitar? So what’s different aside from a 4X mark up in price for the Gibson? There are abalone inlays and a white binding on the neck of the guitar, which really adds to the cosmetic appeal of this instrument. It has everything you need to call it a real Les Paul, even down to the Cherryburst top. In our awesomeness score Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar ranks #34 out of 203 and Epiphone EB-0 ranks #41 out of 203. This makes the PlusTop Pro one of the best Gibson Les Paul alternatives available. You get the idea, but maybe not the exact or correct way of doing it, so when you try improving, it’s like your missing some basic understanding that you should have learned along the way. However, experienced guitarists know well enough that the Les Paul and the Strat are actually two completely different instruments, which is what you’re going to see in this comparison. … However, if both of these necks don’t sound like something you’d like, both manufacturers offer models with non-traditional neck profiles. stella vadakin from 3460NW 50 St Bell, Fl32619 on August 22, 2014: Hey my thoughts are that Epiphone has always been a better brand, anyway I believe it. Humbuckers were created to eliminate the feedback noise that single coil pickups produce when interfered with other electric activity. While the complete buildup of this guitar isn’t anything too fancy, this was an instrument that was built to withstand the test of time. The Stratocaster comes with a one-piece tailpiece, which is a tremolo bridge with individually adjustable string saddles. Jul 26, 2011 #10. fretlessguy. One of my favorite basses is the Made in Japan Squier '60s Classic Vibe. While it's a matter of personal choice whether you prefer the growl of the Les Paul or the rip of the Stratocaster, it's fair to say that the quality of the Squier Standard Strat is very similar to the LP-100. It’s always been that way. 50+ videos Play all Mix - Epiphone vs Squier - comparison YouTube Squier Roundup: A look at six Squier guitars from worst to first - Duration: 25:02. The Les Paul has a fixed bridge, meaning, in theory, it should be easier to keep in tune. This, in most cases, means it will stay in tune a little better. Both of these sets cost $200 each. It is one of the most affordable Les Pauls out there for serious musicians. Choosing between the two brands will most likely involve whether a guitarist wants a Super Strat or Gibson-style guitar. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. How easy a guitar is to play is often due to the shape of the neck. That's how I feel about Fender vs Squire. This is one of the best Les Pauls for beginners at any price range. You can’t ask questions, and I’m pretty sure it’s set up for acoustic sounds because there are times when I know I messed up, but it gave me credit for it. If you are into blues or country you might prefer the bright, twangy sound of the Stratocaster. If it's an Affinity vs an Epi G400, the Epi wins hands down. Moving up to the Epi LP Standard PlusTop Pro, the differences in quality and construction are even more dramatic. However, it's fairly safe to say that Squier Affinity Telecaster is a more popular electric guitar, based on its 300+ reviews. Beginners may find that handling the Les Paul is easier than dealing with the Strat, because the Les Paul has a fixed bridge, compared to the vintage tremolo that’s found on the Squier. My first Squier is a Squier SE Special Strat. 1. So while I probably need to take lessons, I’m thinking about getting the Epiphone LP Package, and simply starting over with a different style of guitar. I’ve used the “Yousician App”, but it’s not as good as having a live person to help. Again, I’m still a newbie, but I have come a long way from the time I started. 2 Squier. Hey we ain't talking about getting married here, buy yourself a Squier CV Tele, if you want an Epiphone later, somebody will probably just give you one, or you could stumble onto a girl friend that has one, there's always dumpster diving probably get a bolt on neck epi out of one of those. All in all, it's a good guitar for what it is, and if you are a beginner it's a solid option. New Squiers top out at around $ It still looks pretty good, and you can save a few bucks. One of the most important parts of the Les Paul by Epiphone is the Alnico humbuckers; Alnico is an abbreviate for Aluminum, Nickle, and Copper. A Strat that’s set up correctly will stay in tune just fine as well, but beginners typically lack the technical ability to set up a guitar correctly. While I am more of a strat guy, I will say that epiphone generally is better. I'm learning to play guitar. Which is better for beginners? These are two of the top electric guitars for beginners in my opinion and I think either is a smart choice if you are just starting out. Squier is a brand often overlooked, and that's unfortunate because they make some excellent gear. This will help illuminate some of the differences between the two guitars. Smoother necks and all around better feeling body. Deciding what guitar is best for your own personal needs is completely dependent upon your total experience as a musician, what your goals as a musician are, and what you plan to use your instrument for. While the Tune-o-Matic bridge is sturdy and stable, the tuners on the Epiphone Les Paul are pretty standard, but also pretty sturdy. At the end of the day, manufacturing a guitar is just a balancing act; the majority of the hardware that’s attached to the Agathist is unbranded, which is reflected in the pricing of this instrument. I can now play chords, transitions, easy licks like “Smoke on the Water”, or “The Joker”. The Epiphone is manufactured by Gibson, while the Squier Stratocaster is manufactured by Fender; both instruments are budget-friendly guitars and beginner level instruments that are inspired by some of the most famous guitar’s history. Learn more about us and how we approach our editorial reviews. Still on the fence between these two classic designs? Some instruments are manufactured with the needs of a beginning musician in mind, while other instruments are created with enough quality to be used onstage or inside of a recording studio. ProBuckers are a major step forward for Epi Les Pauls, bringing in some of the clarity and warmth formerly found only in Gibsons. You can also go into a guitar shop and test out the two guitars to physically feel which one you like better. If you are a player looking for an intermediate electric guitar or above, this is the instrument to consider if you're into the Strat thing. Once again, you have to decide if you prefer the sound of the Les Paul over the Strat. Gibson filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. So, which guitar should you pick? Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar, the cheaper option, tends to get more favorable reviews than Epiphone EB-0 [4.2 vs 4.1 ]. Where Gibson jumps straight to Epiphone, Fender has their Mexican-made Player Series. Both guitars are iconic guitars for all the right reasons. Both guitars are in a similar price range, and both feature similar quality. However, there are no gaps and no glue marks on this neck or the body, which isn’t too common to find on a guitar of this price range. BobWithOneO Squier Talker. Having a longer scale length means that there’s more space in between the frets, which means that there’s great tension on the strings of the guitar. It has custom control knobs, white custom shop pickup boarders, Schaller roller bridge, and a white scratch plate. Gibson Les Paul Custom vs Standard: What’s the Difference? For a fraction of the price on the legendary American Stratocaster, you get a guitar that's almost as good. While it's true that you can customize a Squier Strat with better pickups, hardware, and electronics and end up with an incredible instrument, with a Player Series instrument you are starting with a better guitar to begin with. Squier Bullet Strat, the cheaper option, tends to get more favorable reviews than Epiphone SG-Special [4.6 vs 4.5 ]. The Standard Squier Strat offers an Agathis body with a maple beck and rosewood fingerboard. But of course, there are differences when it comes to quality and construction. If that's what you're looking at I'd recommend going for that, unless you're solely looking to play metal. Epiphone vs Squier Playability Aspects of both Les Pauls and Stratocasters, such as the neck and body weight, vary from model to model and even within production runs. Today, we’re basing our review upon several factors; which instrument is better for beginners, which instrument is of higher quality, which instrument has a better sound, which instrument has a better build, and which guitar is right for your personal needs. 5. Have fun on your guitar journey! Ultimately, choosing between a Stratocaster and a Les Paul has everything to do with playability, character, and sound. Where Gibson jumps straight to Epiphone, Fender has their Mexican-made Player Series. The tonewoods that were chosen to comprise this instrument produce a bright, twangy sound that is very comparable to the sound that the Les Paul produces. If you’re a newbie make your choice between the Squier Standard Strat and the Epiphone LP-100. The biggest difference between the Stratocaster and the Les Paul is their scale length; the scale length is a term to describe the distance between the bridge and the nut on a guitar. It's quality and fit and finish are comparable to Squiers, or at least VM. core differences between a Strat and Les Paul. As for the Les Paul, the neck itself it thick and hefty, which can make note bending a much easier trick to complete on the Les Paul neck. In our awesomeness score Squier Bullet Strat ranks #21 out of 264 and Epiphone SG-Special ranks #43 out of 264. However, Epiphone offers less expensive versions of Gibson models but also many models not found in the Gibson catalog. Which has a better sound, and, most importantly, which guitar is right for me? Deciding which guitars to compare is very much dependent on the experience and goals of the player doing the comparison. | But veteran guitarists know the answers here are not so clear-cut. The Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro has a mahogany body, set mahogany beck, rosewood fingerboard, and all the other features you'd expect to see in an Epi LP. At the end of the day, the choice is completely up to you and there is no wrong answer! Most importantly, is has Epiphone's ProBucker pickups. It is hard enough learning guitar without having to struggle with a crummy instrument, so I always suggest starting off on something decent from a well-respected brand such as these two. Gibson Vs Epiphone A guitar that has greater string tension is more difficult for smaller hands to play, because it requires more hand strength to press down the strings. The Squier Standard Strat is also available in an HSS configuration, which means you'll get one humbucking pickup and two single-coils instead of three singles coils as on a traditional Strat. We then pit the best budget offerings from Epiphone and Squier side-by-side to get a flavour for what the two styles offer at both ends of the price spectrum. Fender Telecoustic Review: Is This Electro-Acoustic Worth Your Money? The debate between Epiphone vs Gibson may seem a lot like the one between Squier vs Fender. On many levels, this debate makes a whole lot of sense. However, there aren’t any specific rules that need to be rolled with pickups, so you can use whatever pickup you want to play. Then we have the Squier Standard Strat and the Epiphone Les Paul 100. While I believe that both the Les Paul and the Stratocaster are amazing guitars for any musician, I would highly recommend the Stratocaster to two types of musicians: a beginning musician who is looking to emulate any famous Strat playing guitarists or an experienced musician who just wants to add a quality guitar to their collection. These are a couple of the best electric guitars under $200 mark, leaving you a little room in your budget for a quality beginner amp. It’s not. Those are the Epiphone Les Paul Special II and Squier Affinity Stratocaster. However, single coil pickups are also more likely to generate a hum when being interfered with other electrical activity. Again, I can give my opinion. It has an alder body, maple neck, choice of maple or rosewood fingerboard, and comes in HSS and SSS pickup configurations. Epiphone's high end guitars are fantastic. 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