Fender Player vs Player Plus: What's the difference?

Fender is one of the most iconic guitar brands in the world, known for its legendary designs and quality craftsmanship. The company's Player Series of electric guitars has been a favorite among guitarists since its introduction in 2018. In 2020, Fender introduced an upgraded version of the Player Series called the Player Plus Series, featuring a number of improvements and new features. Today, we'll take a closer look at the differences between these two popular guitar series and help you decide which one is right for you.

Design and Construction

Both the Fender Player Series and the Player Plus Series feature the classic Fender Stratocaster and Telecaster designs that have been beloved by musicians for decades. The main difference between the two is the construction and materials used. The Fender Player Series guitars are made with alder bodies and maple necks, while the Player Plus guitars are constructed with alder bodies and a combination of maple and pau ferro for the neck. Pau ferro is a South American hardwood that has a similar tone to rosewood, but with a smoother texture. The use of pau ferro on the Player Plus necks provides a slightly warmer tone and a more comfortable playing experience.

Hardware and Electronics

The Fender Player Plus Series comes equipped with upgraded hardware and electronics compared to the Player Series. The Player Plus guitars feature a set of premium Noiseless pickups designed specifically for the series, which is an upgrade compared to the Alnico 5 pickups found in the Player Series. Additionally, the Player Plus guitars feature a push-pull potentiometer that allows you to split the humbucker pickup for even more tonal versatility. The Player Plus guitars also feature locking tuners, which provide greater tuning stability and make string changes easier.

Finish and Aesthetics

The Fender Player Plus Series guitars have a more sophisticated look compared to the Player Series, thanks to their unique finishes and sleek design elements. The Player Plus guitars are available in four stunning finishes - Aged Candy Apple Red, Aged Natural, Silver Smoke and Tequila Sunrise - that provide a modern twist on classic Fender aesthetics. The guitars also feature a new "Modern C" neck profile, which has a slightly deeper shape that provides more comfort and support for the hand.

Price

Perhaps the most significant difference between the Fender Player Series and the Player Plus Series is the price. The Player Plus guitars are more expensive than the Player Series, with a price difference of around $200. The exact price difference may vary depending on the specific model and features.

Which One is Right for You?

Both the Fender Player Series and the Player Plus Series are excellent guitars, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. If you're looking for a high-quality guitar at an affordable price, the Fender Player Series is an excellent choice. The Player Series guitars offer great tone, classic design, and reliable performance, making them perfect for players of all levels. However, if you're looking for an upgrade in terms of construction, hardware, and aesthetics, the Fender Player Plus Series is the way to go. The Player Plus guitars are a step up in terms of quality and tonal options, and they're ideal for more experienced players who are looking for a guitar that can keep up with their playing style.

Fender has done an excellent job with both the Player Series and the Player Plus Series, and they offer guitar players plenty of choices when it comes to finding the perfect instrument. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can't go wrong with either of these excellent guitar series. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your preference. Read the specs, crank one up, pick your favorite color...and rock out!

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