If It Were You...

Brisco · February 7th, 2010, 06:33 PM

Okay, first let me say that this is my first post here. I'm a guy that is about to turn fifty and one of the big things that I have always wanted to take the time to do is learn to play the guitar. So, I've been reading a lot and have learned a lot of interesting things along the way. I want to buy a Stratocaster without breaking the bank and the CV series looks like the ticket for dollar value.

However, I found a 50s MIM Stratocaster in a color that I have always really liked - Surf Green. Normally I think these sell for $699-$749. This one is on clearance for $499.

My question is this. Is it worth another $150 to go the MIM route? Color is not going to make me spend another $150 if there is not much difference in performance. That money could go towards an amp purchase.

If there has been something like this asked here recently then I apologize. I didn't see anything that jumped out at me when I did a quick search.

Hugh · February 7th, 2010, 06:44 PM

Welcome to S-T !

Best advice I can offer is buy used. Watch your local craigslist. The money you save can go toward upgrades, or a better amp.

I have 2 CV strats, the 50's and the 60's. I'm happy with them, and I'm in the process of upgrading one with some Klein pups and Callaham trem. I got mine used via trade-in at a local shop.

tominkansas · February 7th, 2010, 06:46 PM

Hey, congratualtions on deciding to learn how to play guitar. I too picked it up late. I'm 52 and I started just a few years ago (after not playing since junior high school). Any way, I don't know about the 50s Strat, but my Classic Series 60s Strat is wonderfull. I'm so glad I bought it instead of something else. I will never part with my sunburst 60s Strat. That being said, I've read many great things about the Squire CV series. Good luck and have fun learning!

still_fiddlin · February 7th, 2010, 07:39 PM

Depends on your budget. For learning, you could do far worse than a CV, and the price is on those does save you some coin, if you're watching your pennies.

Those 50s and 60s series MIM models typically bring a bit higher price used than your run-of-the-mill Standard. Haven't even seen one recently, but at $400-450 they used to just disappear off the local Craigslist. (Admittedly, I don't know what they actually sold for.) Could be the CVs have brought their prices down, but if you like the guitar, and it *is* a killer color, get it. I think you'll be happy if it's a good guitar. The price is definitely good for new.

Of course, used it a good option if you've got lots to pick from, or can be patient.

orcslayer · February 7th, 2010, 08:10 PM

If the MIM is a model from the last 5 years, it should have alnico pickups instead of the less tuneful ceramic pickups the MIM's used to have. If so, I'd recommend buying it. You shouldn't need to replace or upgrade anything on it & you'll have a good guitar that will last.

Brisco · February 7th, 2010, 10:41 PM

The MIM model is a 2008 or 2009.

lincoln99 · February 9th, 2010, 06:51 PM

If the guitar speaks to you then purchase it. Having the guitar you truly desire will make you play with that extra added umph. But if you have no preference then going the Squier route will def. not be a bad decision. I prefer the Squier Standards, which sound awesome on a Fender Blues Junior Tube Amp. I have not had the chance to play any of the Classic Vibe Series so I can't comment on those. I agree with Hugh... Craigslist can be your best friend in finding a great used Squier which will then allow you to spend some extra money on a nice amp (tube preferably). Congrats on deciding to get back into it!!!!

Boris Bubbanov · February 9th, 2010, 07:33 PM

Oh, absolutely.

Those Classic series MIMs are nice guitars and generally pretty hard to come by. Especially nice ones in the color you want.

In some instances, in some regions Best Buy have MIM Classic 50's and/or 60's for $ 529 but the ones they have seem not to be the pick of the litter. $ 499 is a great price for a model that has been not that easy to find for a couple years now. You can buy a CV any old time; they're multiplying like rabbits. These MIM Classics are not.

Brisco · February 9th, 2010, 07:43 PM

Quote:

in some regions Best Buy have MIM Classic 50's and/or 60's for $ 529 but the ones they have seem not to be the pick of the litter.

Interesting. Could you elaborate? Is Best Buy being funneled the not-so-good ones?