I'm trying to decide which one of these to go for. I know the necks are quite different, but I like both types of neck.

Famous last words, but as I intend to keep this one, I'm attracted to the nitro finish of the '62, as it'll grow old disgracefully with me. However, the current spec Standard seems to be the best they've produced for a long time(?) and I'm sure I'd be happy with that too.

On a totally objective level then, is the '62 worth the extra money?

Here's my two cents on the subject: If you're an old geezer like me, you'd be comfortable with the '62 RI as it is THE 'traditional' Strat in every respect, including its flaws and it is to an extent, a different animal than the new Standard. Having said that, the new Standards are incredibly well made instruments and probably the best Fender Strats ever made to date. So, unless you are too used to a more traditional feeling and playing Strat like me, I'd go with the new Standard in a heart beat.

And no, I do not believe the '62 RI is worth the extra money at all. There is absolutely no justification for it. YMMV.

_________________
You dig?

i had good things about the 62 and it's 57/62 pickups. I really like the ocean turquoise color. Played one of these at the guitar center back home not too long ago and I can't say I that I think it is worth the extra cash, but that's just me. Depends on which neck works best for you too, because the 62 has what felt like a v neck. I say AM Std but thats just me.

Martian is right.The new American Standard is one of the best strats ever made.I bought one in February and I wasnt willing to believe the hype about these guitars.I had an 01 American Series and was not terribly impressed with it.These guitars have great tone and mine was pretty good out of the box.I got a maple neck and i really like the gloss fretboard and headstock.It has more spank than my previous American and seems somewhat lighter.The newer saddles are nice and the case is way better.One of the biggest differences between the 2 are the vintage tremolo vs the 2 point .All in all I really love mine.

ive never played the 62', but i recently bought the new american standard and it is my favorite guitar. every thing about it just seems right.!

i recently got me a 62 reissue strat and my last strat was a new std strat i bought last year[but sold] and comparing the two[which i spent many hours testing out]i must say i favor the 62 reissue- it may not be as fast action as the newer strat but the tone and feel of this guitar outweighs any pluses of the new std strat...the 62 RI neck is the one i like- it reminded me of the 81 strat that i regrettably let go of a few years ago- but this guitar feels the same- so i bought it....buy it !! youll like it!!-if it costs a little more- then its worth it -because you get what you pay for ....

Hello VerySlowHand,

Best Value for your Buck
American Standard.

The 57/62 pickups in the '62
are one of my favorites of course you
can stick them in the Am Std.
Nitro finish nowhere near as durable
as the bulletproof urethane.

If cost is not a consideration
for me it would be the '62.

Best of luck on you choice,
always remember we like photos.

Cheers.

For me there was no question, when I felt and heard my '62ri.

_________________
http://www.reverbnation.com/dirtbeggers

That's 3 votes each so far. Guess that means I have to have both!!!

Need to get my hands on a '62... can't see much work getting done tomorrow.

Well if you are interested I can show you where you can get a NOS never played 07 for $850

I would be interested if it can be shipped over the pond. PM me.

Thats good advice ...

_________________
Member # 85477

"Remember"