Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang Electric Guitar Review
The Squier Classic Vibe series has been a fan favorite among guitar enthusiasts since its inception. Known for their vintage-inspired designs and affordable price tags, these guitars have become the go-to choice for those looking to recreate the classic tones of yesteryear without breaking the bank. One of the standout models from this series is the Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang electric guitar, which aims to capture the essence of the original Fender Mustangs from the 1960s. In this in-depth review, we will explore the features, performance, and overall value of the Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang.
Design and Construction
Right off the bat, the Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang impresses with its authentic vintage design. The guitar features a poplar body with a gloss polyurethane finish, available in two eye-catching colors: Sonic Blue and Vintage White. The double-cutaway body shape, reminiscent of the original Mustang, allows for easy access to the higher frets, making it a comfortable choice for players of all skill levels.
The bolt-on neck is made from maple, featuring a smooth satin finish and a comfortable “C” shape profile. The fingerboard is crafted from Indian laurel, boasting 22 narrow-tall frets, pearloid dot inlays, and a 9.5-inch radius that provides a modern feel for comfortable playability. The vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge adds to the guitar’s classic aesthetic while offering reliable tuning stability and expressive vibrato capabilities.
Electronics and Hardware
The Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang is equipped with a set of Fender-designed Alnico single-coil pickups, which are responsible for the guitar’s signature bright and punchy tone. These pickups provide an excellent balance of warmth and clarity, making them well-suited for a variety of musical styles, including rock, pop, and indie.
The guitar’s simple control layout features a master volume and master tone knob, as well as a three-way toggle switch to select between the bridge, neck, or both pickups. Additionally, the Mustang comes with two slider switches that allow players to individually engage or disengage each pickup, offering even more tonal versatility. This unique switching system may take some getting used to, but it ultimately provides players with a wide range of sonic options.
The hardware on the Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang is finished in nickel, further contributing to the guitar’s vintage appeal. The tuning machines are vintage-style split-shaft tuners, which not only look great but also provide stable and accurate tuning. The bone nut and string-through-body construction help enhance the guitar’s sustain and resonance, while the 4-ply aged white pearloid pickguard adds a touch of visual flair.
Playability and Performance
When it comes to playability, the Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang truly shines. The slim “C” shaped neck profile and 9.5-inch fingerboard radius make for a comfortable playing experience, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. The narrow-tall frets feel great under your fingers and make it easy to execute bends and vibrato with precision.
In terms of performance, the Fender-designed Alnico single-coil pickups deliver a versatile range of tones that can easily adapt to various musical genres. The bridge pickup offers a bright and twangy sound that works well for cutting through a mix, while the neck pickup produces a warmer, fuller tone that’s perfect for rhythm playing or smooth lead lines. With the unique pickup switching system, players can access a wide array of tonal combinations, making the Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang a truly versatile instrument.
Value for Money
Considering its sub-$500 price tag, the Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang offers exceptional value for money. With its high-quality construction, vintage-inspired design, and versatile tonal options, this guitar is a fantastic choice for players seeking an affordable instrument that doesn’t skimp on performance or playability.
Of course, there are other guitars in a similar price range that may offer different features or tonal characteristics, but few can match the classic vibe and genuine Fender pedigree that the Mustang brings to the table. It’s worth noting that, like any budget-friendly instrument, the Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang may require some minor setup adjustments out of the box to ensure optimal playability; however, this is a small investment of time and effort for such an impressive guitar.
Conclusion
The Squier Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang electric guitar is a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality, vintage-inspired instruments at accessible prices. With its comfortable playability, versatile tonal options, and authentic retro design, this guitar is an excellent choice for players looking to capture the essence of the 1960s without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a seasoned guitarist in search of a reliable and stylish workhorse, the Classic Vibe 60’s Mustang is sure to impress.
