[quote name='Kiwi' timestamp='1413743614' post='2581485']
I struggle to understand how people who buy Fender stuff claim its outstanding quality. It seems like they're claiming it's a new thing. Smith, Alembic, Ritter, Shuker, Goodfellow and Wal all offer outstanding quality. Fender has tended to pale in comparison in the past - but that doesn't mean to say it is bad now...just that its difficult to tell how it compares.
Suggested test for quality: Unbolt the neck and see if you can still pick the body up just using the tightness of the neck pocket.
[/quote] I love Fenders in general but I have to agree with Kiwi I find with Fenders you get a fantastic instrument or a dog this goes across the board regardless of where they are made I would imagine the custom shop instruments are very high quality but have never played one. I struggle to see how Fender are in trouble as there instruments aint cheap.Must admit I have not owned a Fender for a while now I do like them but personally I think other manufactures make instruments of a much better consistent quality at far cheaper prices