Hi everybody! I'm new to the board and am happy I found this place.
I have some questions, and definitely need some help because I'm buying a Jeff Beck Stratocaster and am not sure about the artist vs. the custom shop model. First though, I have to say that last night I saw Jeff Beck in concert for the first time, and I'm still in shock at how great the experience was. His band is as good as it gets, and he played better than in any of the live footage that I've ever seen/heard. If was incredible and I highly recommend seeing him if you get the chance.
As for my questions, again, I am trying to figure out the difference between his artist model and his custom shop model, and if the differences are significant or minor? In other words, are they the same guitars with the same electronics, hardware, and play/sound the same, but the custom shop has more bells and whistles? Or are there fundamental differences, making one a better guitar than the other? And if so, which is better?
Thanks a lot for any information and/or advice since I definitely need assistance in order to make the right purchase.
Take care everybody and thanks again for your help!!!

There really is not much of a difference between the artist series and the CS model. To be honest if you go on Harmony Centrals users review the artist series scores much higher than the CS model. I have an Artist series in Surf Green and it has been my #1 ax for the last 7 years and I love everything about it. But I am not one who is big with a trem and you may be dissapointed in how the guitar holds its tune. Especially since it is the artist series model of arguably the best guy with a trem in his hand.

I'm not exactly sure about the differences, but me and the missus have tix to see him in June.

Did he use a Tele/Broadcaster at all during the show?

Did he have a couple of Pro Jrs on his Marshalls with the isolation filter?

Inquiring minds want to know...

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Being able to play and enjoy music is a gift that's often taken for granted.

Don't leave home without it!

Your getting a handmade guitar with a customshop. Theres a big difference. #

JB doesnt bother having his guitar intune according to ME. He just picks it up and bends the notes to what they should be.

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No no and no

Niki I think he wanted to know if there were material differences, but as far as I know everything is basicaly exactly the same except that one uses higher grade materials and the signature is on the back of the headstock. It is weird though that on Harmony Centrals user review the Beck CS is in the minority of not scoring high by users. In fact it only rates a 79.3 out of a 100 overall and the regular artist series actually scores much higher and a few guys own both and preferred the regular artist series. So who the hell knows.

Straycat dont you have to be under 14 to write a review on Harmony Central?

I think the CS guitars use a different bridge with polished steel saddles rather than milled steel. Thats about it. You dont pay for the price of components its the labour costs.

You could get any tom dick or harry to paint your kitchen for a good fee. Michaelangelo will cost significantly more.

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No no and no