Fender USA bass vs Squier bass: Why Does a Fender USA Cost More?

Have you ever wondered why a Fender USA bass costs significantly more than a Squier bass? Is the extra money worth it? In this video, Jules Guitar delves into these questions and provide answers based on a detailed comparison between the two basses. He explores the features, quality, and branding associated with each bass, aiming to help us make an informed decision.

The Video

Let's take a look at the video that inspired this discussion. Watch it to get a better understanding of the sound differences between the Fender USA bass and the Squier bass:

The Price Difference and the Law of Diminishing Returns

The significant price difference between the Fender USA bass and the Squier bass raises the question of whether the cost is justified. It is essential to understand the concept of the law of diminishing returns, which states that the increase in quality may not be directly proportional to the increase in price. Let's explore this further:

Level 1: Bottom End of the Market

• A cheap Fender copy bass can be purchased for around 100 pounds, but it may have quality issues.

Level 2: Squier Affinity Bass

• The Squier Affinity bass, priced at around 200 pounds, offers better quality compared to the bottom-end options.
• Each one percent increase in quality costs one pound extra at this level.

Level 3: Squier Classic Vibe Bass

• Priced at 400 pounds, the Squier Classic Vibe bass is an upgrade from the Affinity model.
• It offers a 50 percent improvement in quality compared to the Affinity bass.
• Each one percent increase in quality costs four pounds extra at this level.

Level 4: Made in Mexico Fender Vintera Bass

• Priced at 800 pounds, the Made in Mexico Fender Vintera bass provides a higher-quality instrument.
• It offers a 20 percent improvement in quality compared to the Squier Classic Vibe bass.
• Each one percent increase in quality costs 20 pounds extra at this level.

Level 5: Made in USA Fender American Professional Bass

• Priced at 1600 pounds, the Made in USA Fender American Professional bass is the top-tier option.
• It offers a 20 percent improvement in quality compared to the Made in Mexico Fender Vintera bass.
• Each one percent increase in quality costs 40 pounds extra at this level.

Features Comparison

Let's examine the features of the Fender USA bass and the Squier bass to identify any notable differences:

Case and Stringing

• The Fender USA bass includes a hard shell molded plastic case, while the Squier bass does not.
• Through body stringing is present in the Fender USA bass, providing additional resonance and sustain compared to the top-loading bridge of the Squier bass.

Graphite Rods

• The Fender USA bass features graphite rods in the neck to prevent dead spots and enhance stability.
• The impact of graphite rods on the overall performance is subjective.

Quality Comparison

The quality differences between the Fender USA bass and the Squier bass contribute to the price disparity. Let's examine the aspects that set them apart:

Headstock and Tuners

• The Fender USA bass has a gloss finish on the front of the headstock, enhancing its premium feel.
• The tuners on the Fender USA bass are of higher quality compared to the Squier bass.

Neck Feel

• The Fender USA bass offers a more refined and polished neck with rolled fingerboard edges, providing a superior playing experience.
• The Squier bass has a less refined and raw-feeling neck.

Body Construction

• Both basses have glossy urethane finishes, but the Fender USA bass claims to have a thinner finish for improved resonance.
• The Fender USA bass may use higher-quality alder wood for its body construction.

Bridge and Electronics

• The Fender USA bass features a higher-quality bridge with additional adjustability and potentially improved sustain.
• While the electronics on both basses are comparable, the Fender USA bass may have smoother and higher-quality knobs.

Pickups

• The Fender USA bass incorporates pickups with Arnico 5 magnets, offering a vintage-accurate tone.
• The Squier bass uses standard single-coil jazz bass pickups with ceramic magnets.

The Value of Branding

Branding plays a significant role in the perception of value. Let's explore the influence of branding on the Fender USA bass and the Squier bass:

Production in the USA

• Made in the USA manufacturing adds to the cost of the Fender USA bass.
• However, it doesn't necessarily result in a better quality product compared to those manufactured elsewhere.
• Fender's branding and the "Made in USA" label contribute to the perception of higher quality and justify the higher price.

The Fender Name

• Fender's reputation as a legendary and authentic brand influences the perception of its instruments.
• The Fender name on the headstock adds value to the bass, attracting customers who desire an authentic Fender experience.

The price difference between the Fender USA bass and the Squier bass reflects the additional features, superior quality, and the influence of branding. While the Squier bass is suitable for beginners and offers good value for its price range, the Fender USA bass provides a higher-quality instrument that can last a lifetime. The perception of Fender as a premium brand and the allure of owning a made-in-the-USA instrument contribute to the higher cost. Ultimately, the decision to invest in a Fender USA bass depends on personal preferences, long-term goals, and budget.