Thoughts on JV, SQ vs E series?

[shook494]

New to the forum. I'm looking at JV's and SQ's and was wondering if there is really any crazy difference from those and the E series? From what I can tell they came from the same factory right? Looks like I can get an E series for less cash. I would like to get your opinions on this matter. I tried to search it on the site but had no luck. Not great at the search thing yet. Thanks.

[lboorse2]

JV's - Very first out of the Fujigen factory. Fender Japan's first guitars. Various "trim levels" of 50's and 60's replicas mainly, but there were some other models.

SQ's - This run started a little later, primarily with 70's inspired guitars. Ran along side JV's in assembly until late 1984. Slightly lesser quality components overall than most JV's. First to be exported to the U.S. for sale (JV's were only exported to Europe as Squier or were Fender domestic models).

E series and A, B, C series. Started as the JV and SQ lines ended production. Maybe slightly less quality components than SQ as a whole.

Keep in mind -- what I've written above is a gross oversimplification. There were a variety of models, "trim levels" and other factors throughout each of those serial runs.

The earliest JV's are considered of the highest quality, on par (some argue even better than) their US counterparts of the day. Some were equipped with some US components (intentionally and unintentionally).

I'd recommend doing some serious research to be sure of what you want. Two great places to start are the Japanese Vintage forums at Squier Talk (obviously, you've already found that one) and 21frets.com. Spend some time there. You'll learn a lot.

That said, I'd be happy to own almost any Fujigen made Squier or Fender guitars.

[shook494]

Thanks for the reply. Makes a lot more sense to me. I'll do some research and hopefully get one here pretty soon. Thanks again. I'll stay around for a while. Seems like a cool place here.

[AllroyPA]

You'd have to spend a nice sum for a JV for couple reasons, they were that good & they are in demand... but there are levels of quality inside that line also- good luck!

[shook494]

I'm seeing that. The JV's are pretty pricey. I'm looking at some SQ's and some E series that I think are really nice. We'll see what I end up with?

[jmiller475]

You can't go wrong with SQ or E series. My main guitar is an E series and I don't think I would ever get rid of it. I've got set up they way I want and the pickups I want. It's like a trusty old friend. The necks are great also.

[householdsaint]

I have JVs, SQs and E series and they are all great quality guitars and basses.

Start off with an E series, and if you like it and can afford it, get a JV later, or even an SQ.

[JapaneseBullets]

I can only say that I have two SQ series Squiers from 1984.... one that I bought brand new in 1984 and from the get go, I've never considered selling it for any amount of money because I bought it for so cheap and bonded with it so quickly, I could never fathom getting rid of it. I bought it as a beater that I wouldn't have to worry about smacking about and treated it that way for a good time, but always felt it was a "keeper above others". I was absolutely subject to a very early indoctrination as to how good a Squier could be and scoffed at the forthcoming remarks about how Squiers were 2nd class guitars at best. Got a lot of flack about that over the years. Long Live those early 1980s Japanese Squires and Fenders.

[AllroyPA]

Tuxedo-pearl, nice! Did you have the pickguard custom made?

[alfunkz]

i have seen one of those bullets for sale locally its an sq serial number, the pups are the blank ones with no poles showing, seriously tempted at £169. is it worth it? not 100% sure

[hudsonnh]

All I have is an E7 - that Rocco found for me on my local CL for $175!
Near mint - just had expected aging from having spent most of the last 24 or so years just sitting in its hard case.
I thought about flipping it - I've seen then offered for more than double what I paid for it - but I quickly decided to keep it.

Yeah - its got single bar ceramic pickups and that goofy looking (to some) Fender System 1 trem and string locks - but it's an absolute delight to play and hear.
Its got mojo!

Only thing I might address with it - and I'm not sure its the same with all MIJ E series - but the neck is really glossy and therefore almost sticky- both the back and the fret board - so I might rough that up a bit....

[lboorse2]

Both my SQ necks are super glossy. I think that's just how they made them then. It doesn't hinder me at all. Maybe some string lubricant would help you out?

[hudsonnh]

Yeah - I will try something like that first....

[shook494]

Originally Posted by JapaneseBullets

I can only say that I have two SQ series Squiers from 1984.... one that I bought brand new in 1984 and from the get go, I've never considered selling it for any amount of money because I bought it for so cheap and bonded with it so quickly, I could never fathom getting rid of it. I bought it as a beater that I wouldn't have to worry about smacking about and treated it that way for a good time, but always felt it was a "keeper above others". I was absolutely subject to a very early indoctrination as to how good a Squier could be and scoffed at the forthcoming remarks about how Squiers were 2nd class guitars at best. Got a lot of flack about that over the years. Long Live those early 1980s Japanese Squires and Fenders.

That was my first guitar! I had one in sunburst with the Lace type pups. Wish I still had it.

[shook494]

Thanks for all the replies. I've been doing a lot of researech and I think I'll be happy with either an SQ or an E series. Now the hunt is on!