The Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Custom Esquire Electric Guitar is a tribute to one of the most iconic designs in guitar history. Combining vintage aesthetics with modern playability, this guitar is designed to deliver premium performance at an affordable price point. In this article, we’ll delve deep into the details, features, pros, and cons of this guitar to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your musical journey.
Overview of the Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Custom Esquire
The Classic Vibe ’60s Custom Esquire by Squier is part of the popular Classic Vibe series, which is known for offering vintage-inspired guitars at a budget-friendly price. This particular model stands out with its timeless look and single-pickup configuration, reminiscent of the early days of electric guitar innovation.
Key Features
1. Design and Build Quality
- Body: The guitar features a poplar body with a stunning Lake Placid Blue finish, adorned with a double-bound design for added elegance.
- Neck: A comfortable “C”-shaped maple neck with a laurel fingerboard ensures smooth playability.
- Frets: Equipped with 21 narrow-tall frets, ideal for expressive bends and comfortable playing.
2. Electronics
- Pickup: A single Fender-designed Alnico pickup is the heart of this guitar, offering a classic, twangy tone that’s perfect for genres like country, rock, and blues.
- Controls: The simplified control layout includes master volume, master tone, and a three-way selector switch for tonal versatility.
3. Hardware
- Bridge: A vintage-style three-saddle bridge adds to the guitar’s old-school charm while providing reliable intonation.
- Tuners: Vintage-style tuning machines not only enhance the retro aesthetic but also ensure stable tuning.
Performance
The single Alnico pickup delivers a bright and articulate tone with plenty of character. The three-way selector switch provides added versatility by altering the tone circuit, allowing players to switch between bright, dark, and bypassed settings.
The Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Custom Esquire offers an impressive performance, especially considering its price range.
The “C”-shaped neck is comfortable for players of all skill levels, and the narrow-tall frets make it easy to execute bends and intricate fingerwork. Whether you’re jamming at home or performing live, this guitar delivers a satisfying experience.

Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable Price: A budget-friendly option for guitarists seeking vintage vibes.
- Classic Aesthetics: The Lake Placid Blue finish and double-bound body give it a high-end look.
- Versatile Tones: The Alnico pickup and three-way selector switch offer a range of tonal options.
- Comfortable Playability: The “C”-shaped neck and narrow-tall frets enhance the playing experience.
Cons
- Limited Pickup Configuration: The single-pickup design may not suit players seeking more tonal variety.
- Bridge Design: The vintage-style three-saddle bridge can be tricky to intonate precisely.
- Plastic Nut: A higher-quality nut could improve tuning stability and sustain.
Who Is It For?
The Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Custom Esquire is ideal for guitarists who:
- Appreciate vintage-inspired designs and tones.
- Are looking for a budget-friendly instrument with premium looks.
- Play genres like blues, rock, and country that benefit from a twangy, articulate tone.
However, players seeking more tonal variety or advanced features might want to explore other options in the Classic Vibe series.
Comparison with Similar Models
Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster
While the Classic Vibe Telecaster offers dual pickups and broader tonal flexibility, the Esquire’s single-pickup design delivers a purer, more focused tone.
Fender Player Telecaster
Priced higher than the Squier Esquire, the Fender Player Telecaster features better hardware and electronics but lacks the unique vintage charm of the Esquire’s stripped-down design.
Conclusion
The Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Custom Esquire Electric Guitar is a must have for players wanting that vintage look, feel, and sound while costing reasonably. Although the guitar has a few shortcomings, it shines above the rest in the budget category due to its awesomeness and price. Regardless if you’re a pro in the Esquire world or a complete novice, this guitar will definitely inspire you.