Price watch (94): Internal conflict

We could all agree that at the end of it all, price matters. Look at these Jacksons, the standard size JS12 is listing for just $20 more than the Minion. There is already a very niche appeal for the shorter-scaled Minion models & its further pressured by that slight price difference. The standard size JS will definitely be more appealing in the after-market. Both these guitars do not come with bags. The Minion requires a smaller bag, the Minion Series bag to be precise so that's $75 more before you bring it home. The Koda EGB ONE bag can fit the JS12, no issue, it's only $15. You do the Math, it's clear which one is more appealing for those of us with a limited shopping budget.

The American Performer P-bass is $250 more than the Japanese Heritage Series 60s P-bass. The Performer is Fender's most affordable American, while the Heritage is currently Fender Japan's top tier range. We all know how the Japanese make their Fenders - absolute respect for QC. Folks, that marginal difference, which one would you choose?

A Premium Ibanez (Indonesia) lists for more than $2K while the demure but irresistible Genesis (Japan) is about $500 lesser. Tough call, yes?

Disclaimers:

• decision-making is more than just looking at listed prices, other factors come into play (product appeal e.g. limited edition, discontinuity, playability, etc.)
• the figures above are domestic retail prices, many of us tend to veer into the dark side of the after-market more often than not
• buying anything, not just musical instruments, is a personal choice, regardless of the external influential decision-making politics involved

Pics: Fender / Ibanez

 

Fender: Japan Hybrid series

Folks, Fender's Japan Hybrid Telecasters have also made their way here- 50s & 60s version.

Also- the 60s Jazz bass...

50s P-bass...

Not so good news though- most models are already sold out. On a price-to-quality ratio assessment, these Jap models are definitely worth it (now that the Mexican models are seeing price hikes).

Product placement

This is a movie poster, it evidently includes a bass which we all know is a Fender P-bass despite the missing headstock decal. It's an example of product placement in movies, this isn't the first though, we all know School of Rock- that was a blatant intention. You watched Paranormal Activity recently? You'd wonder why the Line 6 Variax guitar was there, yes?