Something Appropriate

Weapon of Choice (Fender vs. Gibson)

As an experiment to see how many people view our blog, I thought I'd see if I can garner any support for my "Fender over Gibson" standpoint. My freind stands on the other side of this fence, so I would like nothing more than to make him look foolish (at least in this regard). Now, this argument is only for the standard electric guitars, we're not talking semi-hollow or accoustics.

1. So, on the simplist level ... Tom Morello and David Gilmore both play Stratocasters. They represent two extremes, but are both loyal fender players. Both are revered for their solos and basic riffs, but neither have to resort to using a Les Paul. Simple as that. Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Jimmie Hendricks and John Lennon (though also used Gibsons) are all also Strat people... so whatever you want to think about that. Jonny Greenwood nad Thom Yorke (of Radiohead) and P.J. Harvey also rock the Telecaster as does Bruce Springsteen. Now lets throw at you some big Gibson players ... Noel Gallagher, The Edge (I'll concede this one), Eric Johnson, Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits), Ted Nugent, JImmie Page (OK, I'll concede this one too), Slash, Angus Young (AC/DC) and Eddie Van Halen. And its not like I'm intentionally picking ut losers either. For some reason, many of the famous 'Guitar Gods" feel they can do everything they need with the axe of a mere mortal.

2. But on a personal level, I simply can get a stronger low-end with my Strat (not so much with the Teli) than my freinds Epi. I Use a Peavey Bandit 112 (80W) for most guitar work, as I have always enjoyed Peavey's growl and have made great use of its lo-fi midrange. So, same amp, two guitars. With the low channel selected I just pull a much deeper tone with the Strat. I can get a great twang ith the high channel too, so the variety wins for me. And in case you were wondering, I'm not much of a shredder. I'm more of a melody-master and effect-crazed-maniac. I will admit, I don't cut heads. If you do, More power to you.

3. PRICE. $2,300 for a standard Gibson Les Paul, $1000 for a American Stratocaster. Even looking lower, $400 for a standard Strat (I have one and it does fine), $550 for a Epiphone Les Paul Standard.

I could go on, but its all relative. Fender, to me, is simply a more attractive purchase because of the value you get for your money. And because I have an awesome duck sticker on mine that just looks fantastic.