Squier introduces new spins on iconic Fender models with the release of its 2025 Classic Vibe lineup, featuring Telecasters equipped with Bigsby vibratos and pink hardtail Strats.
Squier, a subsidiary of Fender, has announced the launch of its Class of 2025 Classic Vibe electric and bass guitars and bass guitars. The new collection features over 15 models, offering bold specs and vintage-inspired designs at accessible prices between approximately £419 and £556.
Electric Guitars
The lineup includes several electric guitars, with some returning favourites and new additions. The Duo-Sonic ($419) makes a comeback, sporting a single-coil/humbucker configuration and a short 24" scale. The Classic Vibe '60s Jazzmaster ($449) is available in Tahitian Coral, while the '70s Stratocaster HT HSS ($449) features an unorthodox pickup/hardware combo with a hardtail bridge and humbucker at the bridge. The '50s Stratocaster HT, also priced at $449, is another hardtail model.
The Custom Esquire ($473) offers a single pickup, and is available in Candy Apple Red and Sherwood Green. The Custom Telecaster SH with Bigsby, priced at $524, gives Mike Campbell Red Dog signature vibes and comes equipped with a Fender-designed alnico humbucker and single-coil, as well as a vintage-style Tele bridge plate and a Bigsby tailpiece.
Bass Guitars
Bass players are not forgotten in the new collection, with a '60s Jazz Bass ($473) and a Telecaster Bass ($473) included. Two Active '70s Jazz Bass models ($524 and $556) have been added, with one featuring a bound fingerboard and block inlays.
Modern Touches and Vintage Aesthetics
Many models in the new collection adopt vintage aesthetics but incorporate modern touches such as hardtail bridges replacing tremolos, Bigsby vibratos on some Telecasters, and active electronics on the '70s Jazz Bass models to extend tonal versatility.
Comparison with Fender’s Standard Series
The Standard Series launched by Fender in 2025 carries a higher price point, generally starting around £599 for Stratocasters and Telecasters, positioning it above the Squier Classic Vibe line but below Fender’s top tiers. Squier is considered the entry-level and mid-tier range, typically made in China or Indonesia, costing about 40% less than equivalent Fender models while delivering solid playability and vintage vibe, making Classic Vibe guitars excellent intermediate options.
The Standard Series aims to offer a more “proper” Fender experience at a relatively affordable price, with premium hardware and classic features, whereas the Squier Classic Vibe line focuses on affordability with surprising quality and a vintage flavor, sometimes pushing into bold, experimental specs uncommon in budget models.
In Summary
| Feature | Squier Classic Vibe 2025 | Fender Standard Series 2025 | |----------------------------|-----------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------| | Price range | ~£419 to ~£556 | Starting ~£599 | | Key models | Duo-Sonic, ’60s Jazzmaster, ’70s Strat HT, Custom Esquire | Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazz Bass | | Scale length (example) | Duo-Sonic 24” short scale | Standard Fender scale lengths | | Bridge type | Mostly hardtail bridges, some Bigsby | Tremolo and hardtail (traditional Fender) | | Electronics | Single-coil/humbucker combos; active basses | Traditional Fender pickups | | Manufacturing location | China & Indonesia | Mexico, USA, or Japan depending on tier | | Target audience | Entry to intermediate players; vintage look with reliable specs | Intermediate to semi-pro players seeking authentic Fender tone and feel at reduced cost |
The 2025 Classic Vibe guitars emphasize affordable vintage aesthetics with occasional modern twists, while Fender’s Standard Series prioritizes authentic Fender design and higher-tier hardware at a higher price point. Both lines maintain a strong place in Fender’s 2025 product ladder as complementary rather than competing models.
