skej21

[quote name='Beedster' post='822990' date='Apr 29 2010, 01:25 PM']No, the question was pretty specific: are Squiers better? Value doesn't, and doesn't need to, come into it.[/quote] In which case, I personally think the answer is no. The build quality of most Squiers may be good on the scale of basses but is not as good as the hand built early Fender basses. I just feel that a machine-built bass cannot match the feel and quality of something hand-made.

[quote name='alanbass1' post='822975' date='Apr 29 2010, 01:09 PM']The question would be better based around is a Squier 'better value' than a Fender. Let's face it, you can get a Fender bass from £250 right up to £3k and more - I would have no expectation that a Squier would better a £3k bass - but I would think twice as to whether the £3k bass is worth the extra money[/quote] +1 The question is far too vague and doesn't take into account the additional value of the high-end Fenders. As far as sound and playing goes, it is likely that some people will argue that there is little difference. However, you cannot argue that vintage Fenders have added value through the immense history of the instrument. Vintage Fenders are an investment and a piece of history (although some Squiers appear to be following this trend) but in both cases, result in an increased desire/value.

[quote name='Johnston' post='822949' date='Apr 29 2010, 12:44 PM'] Compare the sounds I don't think the squires are too shabby compared to their counter parts.[/quote] Compare the sounds of any bass signal through a beautiful, expensive amp. Would it sound as good through a budget amp? Because lets face it, if you're buying a budget bass, you'll probably be buying a budget amp. I also agree that he doesn't look like he is enjoying playing those basses.

[quote name='MacDaddy' post='822925' date='Apr 29 2010, 12:21 PM']the topic is 'Is a Squier better than a Fender'. Valid topic for debate which will boil down to personal preference. The original Squiers - with a big Fender logo and a small Squier logo - are often considered far superior to the Fenders of the same era and are still highly sought today. As simon1964 said is there £600 + difference in sound/playability? Does anyone think the audience would notice the difference? Re the steak, what if you are vegetarian? [/quote] I agree with you about live sound, but to be fair most audiences care more about hearing a song they know than the quality of sound... they just expect things to sound good. However, I do think that the poorer quality of Squier basses is highlighted by the fact that hardly any session players rate, promote or recommend them. It is clear that there is just something special about hig-end/vintage Fenders when you record them (in the special same way that playing through a flat compressor can add warmth to your sound from apparently doing nothing).

This thread seems pointless. You're comparing a budget bass company (squier) with another budget bass company (vintage). It's like discussing which 6p tin of baked beans tastes better... the answer is neither, a STEAK tastes better!!

Don't forget Pino! Still grooving with anything that moves at the young age of 52!