In this deep dive, I pit the Fender Player II Modified against the classic Player II to uncover what sets them apart and which Fender player ii modified truly deserves your hard-earned cash. From specs to sound tests and a peek inside, we’re getting down to the nitty-gritty of these Mexican-made Strats.
Player II vs Modified
Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of these two Strats, shall we? At first glance, you might think they’re just two sides of the same coin. But oh, my friends, there’s more beneath the surface! The Player II Modified takes the classic Player II and gives it a little extra spice. Think of it as the Player II with a splash of hot sauce—same base, but with a bit more kick.
In this section, we’re not just talking about aesthetics; we’re looking at what makes these guitars tick. Both models share the same classic Stratocaster vibe, but the Modified version cranks up the features. So, let’s break down what they have in common before we dive into the juicy differences.
Specs They Share
- Body Type: Both models sport that classic alder body, because who doesn’t love a little bit of wood under their fingers?
- Fingerboard: Rosewood fingerboards on both, giving you that smooth feel as you shred away.
- Neck: Maple necks with a 9.5-inch radius—perfect for those smooth bends and riffs.
- Pickups: Each model features three single-coil pickups. Yep, the classic Strat sound is alive and well.
- Switching: Both have five-way switching, two tone knobs, and one volume knob, so you can tweak your sound to your heart’s content.
- Tremolo System: They both come equipped with a two-point tremolo system, allowing for some nice dive bombs.
- Frets: 22 medium jumbo frets, so you have plenty of room to maneuver.
- Made in Mexico: Both guitars hail from the Ensenada factory, so you know you’re getting that quality craftsmanship.
Key Differences
Now, let’s get to the good stuff—what makes the Player II Modified stand out from its classic counterpart? Strap in!
- Pickups: The Player II is equipped with Alnico V single coils, whereas the Modified boasts noiseless pickups. This means less hum and noise, perfect for those who like to rock out!
- Tuners: The Player II has vintage-style tuners, while the Modified features deluxe cast sealed locking tuners. These babies help you stay in tune even after some serious whammy bar action.
- Nut Material: The Player II has a synthetic bone nut, but the Modified comes with a tusk nut, which can offer a bit more sustain.
- Bridge Saddles: The Player II sports bent steel saddles, while the Modified has block steel saddles. This can affect tone and sustain—more on that later!
- Additional Switching: The Modified has a push-pull tone knob that adds the neck pickup to positions one and two. A simple mod that can open up a world of tonal possibilities!
- Treble Bleed Circuit: The Player II lacks this feature, while the Modified retains clarity as you roll back the volume. This can be a game-changer for tone!
- Price: The Player II is about 20% cheaper than the Modified, but is that price difference worth it? That’s what we’re here to find out!
Clean Tone Test
Let’s kick things off with a clean tone test. Plugging both guitars into the same amp, you can really hear the nuances. The Player II has that classic Strat chime, while the Modified has a bit more clarity and depth thanks to those noiseless pickups.
As I strummed some chords, it was clear that the Modified had a more pronounced high end. It’s like the difference between a clear blue sky and a slightly cloudy day. Both are beautiful, but one just shines a bit more!
Crunch Tone Test
Now, let’s crank up the gain and see how they handle a little grit. Using channel two of the amp, I dove into some rock riffs, and wow, did things get interesting!
While the Player II was slightly more challenging to play through the crunch, the Modified felt like it just wanted to rock out. The tones were fuller, and the clarity remained intact even when things got a little messy. It’s almost like the Modified was saying, “Bring it on!”
High Gain Tone Test
Let’s really push these guitars to their limits with some high gain. I grabbed my favorite riff and let loose! The difference became even more apparent here.
The Modified sang with more sustain and clarity, while the Player II had a rougher edge. It’s like the Modified was a seasoned rock star, while the Player II was still finding its groove. Both had their merits, but the Modified definitely had the upper hand in this arena.
Neck Pickup Mod Test
Now, let’s explore that nifty push-pull feature on the Modified. Adding the neck pickup into positions one and two can really change the game. I went for a funky riff, and it was like adding a secret ingredient to your favorite dish.
The warmth and body it added to the sound was delightful! It took the ice-picky bridge tone and smoothed it out beautifully, offering a richer sound that you just can’t ignore. This is a mod that can easily be replicated on other Strats, and I might just have to do that with my own!
My Favourite Tone Setting
Alright, let’s talk about tone settings! You know, finding that sweet spot can feel like a treasure hunt, but when you hit the jackpot, it’s pure bliss. For me, the ideal setting combines a bit of warmth with that classic Strat clarity. I tend to roll off the treble just a smidge, bringing in the midrange to give it some body. And don’t forget, a touch of reverb can make everything sound just that much sweeter!
When I plug in the Fender Player II Modified, it’s like the guitar is speaking to me. The noiseless pickups really shine here, allowing those nuanced tones to come through without the interference of hum. It’s a game-changer, especially when I want to get lost in a solo or just jam out a few chords.
Treble Bleed Circuit Test
Now, let’s dive into the treble bleed circuit. This little gem can make a massive difference when you start rolling back the volume. You know how it goes—sometimes you want to tone it down without losing that crispness. With the Player II Modified, the treble bleed keeps everything intact, like a loyal friend who’s always got your back.
I ran both guitars through a fuzz pedal at various volume levels, and the difference was crystal clear. The Modified retained its clarity even at lower volumes, while the Player II started to muddy up a bit. It’s like the difference between a clear stream and a muddy puddle—one is refreshing, the other, not so much.
Inside the Guitars (Gut Shots)
Time to pop the hoods and see what’s going on inside these beauties! Opening up the Player II Modified, I was greeted with a clean layout and some impressive components. The push-pull pot for the additional switching looked pretty standard, but the craftsmanship was top-notch. It’s like opening a gift and finding something truly special inside!
In contrast, the Player II was a bit more straightforward. The simpler wiring and components made it feel less complex, but you could tell it was built with care. Sometimes, less is more, right? But if you’re after that extra bit of versatility, the Modified’s setup is where it’s at.
Weight Comparison
Let’s talk weight. You might not think it makes a difference, but trust me, it does! The Player II comes in at about 3.55 kilograms, while the Modified is just a smidge lighter at 3.5 kilograms. Not a huge difference, but when you’re standing on stage for hours, every little bit counts!
Some players prefer a heavier guitar for a more solid feel, while others might lean towards a lighter model for ease of play. It’s all about what feels good in your hands. Personally, I enjoy the balance of the Modified—it just feels right when I’m shredding away!
Pickup Output Readings
Now, let’s get nerdy with some numbers! I measured the output of both sets of pickups, and the results are telling. The Player II Modified’s noiseless pickups clocked in at higher readings across the board. For instance, the bridge pickup hit around 12.1 kilo ohms, while the Player II’s was around 8 kilo ohms. It’s clear these pickups pack a punch!
But don’t let those numbers scare you off! It’s not just about the output; it’s how each guitar responds to your playing style. The Modified’s pickups give a more robust sound, perfect for cutting through the mix in a band setting. Meanwhile, the Player II has its own charm, delivering that classic Strat tone that many players adore.
Final Thoughts & Verdict
So, after all the testing, what’s the final verdict? Both guitars have their strengths and weaknesses, and it really comes down to personal preference. If you’re after versatility and a bit of added clarity, the Fender Player II Modified is your best bet. But if you’re a fan of the classic Strat sound and don’t mind sacrificing a few bells and whistles, the Player II will serve you well.
In the end, whether you’re rocking out in your bedroom or tearing it up on stage, both models are worthy companions. Remember, it’s all about what inspires you to play. So grab whichever one speaks to you, and let the music flow!