The Nitty-Gritty of Reissues: Are Fender and Gibson Guitars and Basses Better Now?

When it comes to the world of guitars and basses, particularly from iconic brands like Fender and Gibson, the question of whether reissues are as good as, or even better than, the original models has been a topic of much debate. This article dives into the details, exploring the evolution of reissues and whether there are grounds to justify the belief that newer versions are superior.

Evolution of Reissues

Typically, reissues of Fender and Gibson guitars and basses do not quite match the original quality or performance. However, technological advancements and a deeper understanding of the manufacturing process have led to improvements in certain aspects of the instruments. For instance, the JEM-7V updated in 1998 introduced enhancements that were not present in its predecessor. Nonetheless, variations in the quality and consistency of these updates can be significant.

Making Your Own Assessment

The subject of whether reissues are better than original models is highly subjective and can depend on several factors, including the specific model, the types of woods used, the year of manufacture, and the hands that crafted them. The ultimate decision comes down to personal preference and the qualities one values in a guitar. Personally, I believe that the journey of playing guitars is one of endless discovery and enjoyment, regardless of whether the instrument is new or old.

Comparing Fender and Gibson: A Personal Insight

Speaking from personal experience, I've played a variety of guitars, some of them quite expensive and others more affordable. My point is that everyone has their own ideal guitar, and it's about finding the one that resonates with you the most. Certain guitars may have a certain 'junk' factor, but there are also many mid-range options that offer excellent playability and tone. My favorite setup involves a solid piece of AAA matched flamed maple caped mahogany with an ebony fretboard, featuring jumbo 59 frets on a mahogany 59 radius neck, paired with Seymour Duncan pickups, Pearly Gates, and a Seth Lover bridge. Plugged into a fully loaded Marshall JCM900 full stack, it's a powerful combination indeed.

Time and Quality

Model and production year, along with electronic changes, make it challenging to make a blanket statement about the overall quality of reissues. For instance, relics offered today are still new guitars and don't come with the old wood or components. Old quality equipment often has a unique character, but when it comes to cost, the value can be debated.

Personal Experiences

I personally own both an old and a new Gibson 59 Les Paul. The 1983 model and a newer one both have their distinct sounds. Similarly, PRS guitars, being relatively new, are playing instruments that have captured the attention of many guitarists. Given the same price, I would opt for a new PRS over a $25,000 Gibson or Fender simply because I already own the latter and the value of age doesn't necessarily translate into better sound.

Conclusion

Honestly, the real answer to whether reissues of Fender and Gibson guitars and basses are as good as or better than the originals hinges on personal opinion. Opinion for 'OLD' divided by Opinion for 'NEW' multiplied by tryives Whatever you conclude yourself. It's an ongoing journey with a lot of great experiences along the way.

So, whether you're a super rich guitar and amp collector or simply an avid player, take your time to find the guitar that makes you feel good. Whether it's an old Les Paul from the 70s or a new one that hasn't even been produced yet, it will be the best guitar for you. As for my friend who collects guitars worth $2.5 million, he plays what he loves, a HAZE 350, because that's his favorite. So, to all guitar enthusiasts out there: keep exploring and enjoying the ride!