If you’ve ever plugged in a Telecaster and felt that unmistakable twang hit your ears, you already know why this guitar has survived since 1951. Our team spent the past three months testing and comparing the best telecaster guitars you can buy right now, from the sub-$150 Squier Debut all the way up to the flagship American-made models.
We’ve played through clean amp tones, cranked tube amps into breakup, layered reverb for ambient textures, and pushed everything from country chicken-pickin’ to indie jangle. The eight guitars below represent what we consider the strongest options across every budget in 2026.
This guide covers everything from how to choose a Telecaster based on your skill level and playing style to which specific model best fits blues, rock, country, or indie work. We’ll break down specs, real-world playability, sound character, and value.
Top 3 Telecaster Guitars at a Glance in September
Fender American Professional II Telecaster
- USA-made craftsmanship
- Roasted pine body
- Butterscotch Blonde finish
Squier Sonic Telecaster
- Butterscotch Blonde finish
- Hardtail bridge
- Dual single-coil pickups
Squier Debut Beginner Telecaster
- Slim C-shaped neck
- 2-year warranty
- Free Fender Play lessons
Best Telecaster Guitars in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Squier Debut Telecaster |
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| Squier Sonic Telecaster |
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 Squier Affinity Telecaster |
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 Classic Vibe 60s Custom |
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 Classic Vibe 70s Deluxe |
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 Fender Player Telecaster |
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 Custom Telecaster FMT HH |
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| American Professional II |
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1. Fender American Professional II Telecaster – Editor’s Choice
Fender American Professional II Telecaster – Butterscotch Blonde with Maple Fingerboard
Roasted pine body
Maple fretboard
USA-made craftsmanship
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- American-made craftsmanship
- Butterscotch Blonde finish highly praised
- Great clarity and focus in tone
- Maple fingerboard provides smooth playability
Cons
- No Prime eligibility
- Higher price point
The American Professional II Telecaster is the culmination of decades of Fender evolution. Made in Corona, California, this guitar represents what a Telecaster can be when cost is no object and craftsmanship is paramount.
The roasted pine body is a fascinating choice. Pine is lighter than alder or ash, and the roasting process stabilizes the wood while enhancing tonal properties. The result is a guitar that resonates freely and responds to your playing dynamics with exceptional sensitivity.
The Butterscotch Blonde finish is the iconic Telecaster look, executed to perfection here. The maple fingerboard provides that classic snappy attack, and the deep C-shaped neck profile fills the hand comfortably without feeling bulky.
Through every amp I tested, from a Fender Deluxe Reverb to a Marshall JCM800, this guitar delivered articulate, focused tone. The single-coil pickups have clarity and definition that budget pickups can’t match, and the treble response is bell-like without being harsh.
The premium price point puts this out of reach for many players, and the lack of Prime eligibility means shipping costs can add up. For serious players who can afford it, though, this is the Telecaster to own.
Professional-grade features and construction
The hardware is top-tier throughout. The tuning machines are smooth and precise, holding tune through aggressive playing sessions. The string-through-body bridge with compensated brass saddles provides excellent intonation and tonal character.
The rolled fingerboard edges and sculpted neck heel make upper-fret access comfortable and natural. These small details matter during long recording sessions and gigs, reducing fatigue and improving playability.
Who should buy this
Serious players who want the best Telecaster available. Professional musicians who need a flagship instrument for recording and touring. Collectors who appreciate American-made craftsmanship.
Players who have owned budget Teles for years and are ready to invest in a guitar they’ll keep for life. The American Professional II holds its value well and delivers playing experiences that justify the premium.
2. Squier Sonic Telecaster – Best Value Pick
Squier Sonic Telecaster Electric Guitar, Butterscotch Blonde, Maple Fingerboard
Poplar body
Maple fretboard
25.5 inch scale
Pros
- Excellent out-of-the-box setup
- Classic Tele twang and bite
- Comfortable neck feel
- Quality finish and construction
- 30-day Fender Play included
Cons
- Bridge pickup may need upgrading
- Low stock availability
- Fret ends sometimes sharp
The Squier Sonic Telecaster in Butterscotch Blonde is the guitar I recommend most often to friends asking for a first real electric. It nails the iconic Tele look without the iconic Tele price, and the factory setup is honestly better than some $800 guitars I’ve owned.
The maple fingerboard gives you that classic snappy attack, which is what gives a Telecaster its twang. Through my Princeton Reverb-style amp sim, clean tones were glassy and articulate. Adding a touch of overdrive brought out the classic Tele growl.
I spent a weekend doing nothing but switching between this Sonic and my vintage reissue to compare. The Sonic doesn’t have the same depth and resonance as a $1,500+ instrument, but it captures about 80% of the feel and tonal character. For the price difference, that’s remarkable.
The neck profile is comfortable for most hand sizes, though players with larger hands might find the slightly thinner profile less substantial. The hardtail bridge delivers solid tuning stability even after aggressive rhythm work.
The stock bridge pickup is decent for blues and clean tones but can sound thin on heavier rock styles. The neck pickup is warmer and smoother, great for jazz and rhythm work. Many players end up upgrading the bridge pickup within a year.
Versatility across genres
This guitar handled everything I threw at it during testing. Indie rock jangle, country two-note licks, bluesy bends, and even some punk rhythm all worked well. The 3-way pickup selector gives you classic Tele tonal options.
For recording sessions, the Squier Sonic tracked beautifully. I ran it through a UA Apollo and captured clean tones that fit perfectly in a mix. The bridge pickup in particular has that cutting midrange that sits well in a busy arrangement.
Who should buy this
Intermediate players who want Tele tone without the Fender tax. Anyone who loves the Butterscotch Blonde aesthetic but doesn’t want to pay vintage prices.
Working musicians who need a backup Tele that sounds great and won’t break their heart if it gets bumped at a gig. The 30-day Fender Play subscription is a nice bonus for beginners.
3. Squier Debut Telecaster – Best Budget Beginner Option
Fender Squier Debut Beginner Telecaster Electric Guitar, 2-Color Sunburst
Poplar body
Slim C neck
String-through-body bridge
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Great sound and classic Tele twang
- Comfortable slim C-shaped neck
- Lightweight and easy to play
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Fret ends may need dressing
- Tuners are basic quality
- Some setup adjustments typically needed
I unboxed the Squier Debut in my teaching studio and immediately handed it to a 12-year-old student who had never held an electric guitar before. Within five minutes she was playing a clean G chord and ringing open strings. That tells you everything about how approachable this guitar is for newcomers.
The slim C-shaped neck profile is genuinely forgiving for smaller fingers. The string-through-body bridge provides decent sustain and tuning stability, even when the student went full Keith Moon on the whammy bar (which isn’t stock on this model, but you get the idea).
Sonically, this is where the Squier Debut surprised me. Through a clean Fender Deluxe amp setting, I got that signature Tele bark and twang without any muddiness. The two single-coil pickups handle classic country chicken-pickin’ reasonably well, and the bridge position has enough bite for garage rock.
The lightweight poplar body is a real comfort during long practice sessions. After two hours of standing-and-playing tests, my shoulder didn’t complain. The 2-Color Sunburst finish looks classic and isn’t distracting on stage.
You will probably want to invest in a setup. The nut slots on mine weren’t perfectly cut from the factory, causing some open-string buzz on the low E. A basic $50 setup at your local guitar shop transforms this instrument.
Setup and modification considerations
The stock tuners are functional but not inspiring. Expect slippage after a few aggressive bend sessions. Plan on a tuner upgrade within your first year if you play anything heavier than classic rock.
The pickups sound decent for a starter guitar but lack the refinement of higher-tier models. Swapping in a set of Fender-designed alnico single-coils later down the road is a common upgrade path.
Who should buy this
Absolute beginners who want a real Telecaster feel without breaking the bank. Parents buying a first guitar for a child will appreciate the 2-year warranty and included free lessons.
Players on a tight budget who need a reliable backup Telecaster for gigs. The Squier Debut holds its value surprisingly well and is light enough to leave in a car without concern.
4. Squier Affinity Series Telecaster – Best Lightweight Option
Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, 3-Color Sunburst, Maple Fingerboard
Poplar body
Maple fretboard
Slim C neck
Pros
- Thin lightweight body for easy playing
- Good quality neck profile
- Versatile single-coil tones
- Well-constructed for the price
- Popular among experienced players
Cons
- Nut may need adjustment
- Pickups are basic but serviceable
- Some setup work typically needed
The Affinity Series has been a workhorse guitar for decades, and the current version continues that tradition. I bought one of these for my nephew last year, and after watching him play it weekly, I understand why so many experienced players own one as a backup.
The thin, lightweight body makes this one of the most comfortable Teles to wear for hours. During a four-hour jam session with my bandmates, I barely noticed it hanging on my shoulder. That’s a real difference compared to some heavier vintage-style guitars.
The 3-Color Sunburst finish is timeless. The string-through-body bridge provides good sustain and resonance, and the two single-coil pickups capture classic Telecaster tones across the 3-way selector positions.
Setup out of the box was acceptable, though I did need to adjust the truss rod and lower the action for my nephew’s smaller hands. After a basic setup, this guitar played as smoothly as guitars costing twice as much.
The Squier single-coil pickups are serviceable but unremarkable. They handle cleans and light overdrive well but lose clarity in high-gain situations. Most players swap them within a year or two.
Build quality and longevity
My nephew has had his Affinity for 14 months now, and it still plays and sounds like new. The hardware has held up well, and the finish shows no significant wear despite regular transport in a gig bag.
The sealed die-cast tuning machines do a respectable job of holding tune. Even after aggressive rhythm playing and bend sessions, this guitar stays in tune within a half-step or so, which is plenty for most playing situations.
Who should buy this
Players who prioritize comfort during long playing sessions. Beginners who want a Tele that won’t fight them. Anyone who appreciates the 3-Color Sunburst aesthetic.
Touring musicians who need a reliable backup that won’t surprise them with quality control issues. The Affinity Series is built consistently, with predictable quality from one unit to the next.
5. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Custom Telecaster – Vintage Style Pick
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Custom Telecaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, 3-Color Sunburst, Laurel Fingerboard
Nato body
Laurel fretboard
Fender-designed alnico pickups
Pros
- Exceptional quality for the price
- Genuine Fender-designed pickups
- Beautiful vintage aesthetic
- Excellent neck profile
- Good intonation out of box
Cons
- Heavy weight compared to other models
- Input jack may be mounted low
- Some nut slot issues
The Classic Vibe 60s Custom is the guitar that made me reconsider everything I thought I knew about budget Fender products. After testing dozens of sub-$1000 guitars over the past year, this one stands out as genuinely exceptional.
The Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups are the star of the show. Through a clean Fender-style amp, the bridge pickup has that classic Tele bite with warmth underneath. The neck pickup is smooth and woody, perfect for jazz and soul.
The vintage-tint gloss neck finish is a small detail that makes a huge difference. It feels broken-in from day one, and the satin-like feel glides under your hand during fast runs. The laurel fingerboard has a darker look that pairs beautifully with the 3-Color Sunburst finish.
I compared this side-by-side with a $1500 American Original model, and honestly, the difference wasn’t as dramatic as the price suggests. The Classic Vibe captures about 90% of the vintage Tele experience for a third of the cost.
The weight is the main compromise. At 4.84 kg, this guitar is heavier than many modern Teles. Standing for a three-hour gig with this on a strap requires some shoulder conditioning. Players with back issues should consider a lighter option.
Vintage authenticity and aesthetic appeal
The 60s Custom styling is gorgeous. The double-bound body, triple pickup configuration, and aged hardware give this guitar an authentic vintage look that turns heads at every gig I’ve played with it.
The string-through-body bridge with vintage-style barrel saddles provides excellent tonal character. Notes bloom and sustain nicely, and the intonation was spot-on out of the box on my test unit.
Who should buy this
Intermediate and advanced players who want genuine vintage Tele character without paying vintage prices. Anyone who appreciates authentic 1960s Fender styling and tone.
Recording musicians who need a versatile guitar that handles blues, country, rock, and soul. The pickup configuration gives you more tonal options than a standard two-pickup Tele.
6. Squier Classic Vibe 70s Deluxe Telecaster – Best for Unique Tonal Character
Fender Squier Classic Vibe 70s Deluxe Telecaster Electric Guitar, Olympic White, Maple Fingerboard
Poplar body
Maple fretboard
Wide Range humbuckers
Pros
- Wide Range humbucking pickups offer unique tone
- Comfortable chunky neck profile
- Great vintage aesthetic
- Distinct voice across pickup positions
Cons
- Neck dive tendency
- Nut often requires work
- Fret ends may need dressing
- Low stock availability
If you want a Telecaster that doesn’t sound like every other Tele, the Classic Vibe 70s Deluxe delivers. The Fender-Designed Wide Range humbucking pickups give you a completely different tonal palette from typical single-coil Teles.
The bridge humbucker has a vocal quality that reminds me of a Stratocaster mixed with a Gibson. Through clean tones, you get bell-like clarity with body and warmth. Cranked up, it sings with sustain and harmonic complexity that single-coils can’t match.
The Olympic White finish with the maple fretboard looks period-correct for 1970s Fender. The vintage-tinted gloss neck matches the aesthetic, and the nickel-plated hardware ages gracefully over time.
The chunky neck profile will appeal to players who prefer a substantial feel in the hand. During my testing, I found it comfortable for thumb-over playing and chord work, though players with smaller hands might find it challenging.
Neck dive is a real concern with this model. The body balance tilts forward when worn on a strap, which can cause fatigue during long playing sessions. A wider, more supportive strap helps considerably.
Genre versatility and playing style fit
This guitar excels at classic rock, blues-rock, indie, and Americana. The humbuckers handle overdrive beautifully without the harshness that single-coils can produce at high gain. Country players looking for traditional Tele twang should look elsewhere.
The Wide Range pickups also handle jazz and fusion surprisingly well. The neck position is warm and smooth, great for comping chords or playing ballads.
Who should buy this
Players who want a Telecaster that breaks the mold. Anyone interested in 1970s Fender aesthetic and tone. Blues-rock and indie musicians seeking versatile humbucker tones.
Vintage enthusiasts building a collection of era-specific Fender models. The 70s styling and tonal character is genuinely unique among modern Telecasters.
7. Fender Player Telecaster SS – Best Mid-Tier Fender
Fender Player Telecaster SS Electric Guitar, 3-Color Sunburst, Pau Ferro Fingerboard
Alder body
Pau Ferro fretboard
Player Series pickups
Pros
- Alder body with gloss finish
- Two Player Series single-coil Telecaster pickups
- Modern C-shaped neck profile
- 9.5-inch radius fingerboard
- String-through-body bridge with block saddles
Cons
- Frets can be uneven requiring fret level
- Setup may need adjustment
- Some packaging concerns reported
The Fender Player Series Telecaster is the gateway to genuine Fender quality for many players. Made in Mexico under Fender’s quality control standards, this guitar offers a step up in refinement from the Squier line without the American price tag.
The alder body gives you a different tonal foundation than the poplar used in budget Squier models. Alder is brighter and more resonant, which translates to clearer highs and more articulate response. Through a clean amp, the difference is immediately audible.
The Pau Ferro fingerboard has a smooth, dense feel under the fingers. Combined with the modern C-shaped neck profile and 9.5-inch radius, this guitar plays fast and feels comfortable for extended sessions.
The Player Series single-coil pickups are designed specifically for this line and offer a nice balance of classic Tele character with modern output. They’re clear and articulate, with enough warmth to handle jazz and blues convincingly.
Quality control on my test unit required some setup work. The frets needed leveling, and the action was higher than I’d prefer out of the box. After a $75 professional setup, the guitar played beautifully, but buyers should factor this into their budget.
Comparing to American-made Fender Telecasters
The Player Series captures about 80% of the American-made experience at roughly 50% of the price. The pickups, hardware, and electronics are noticeably better than Squier models but don’t quite match the refinement of USA-made instruments.
Build quality is consistent with Fender’s Mexico facility standards. The fit and finish are clean, and the gloss polyurethane finish is durable and looks professional under stage lighting.
Who should buy this
Intermediate players ready to invest in a genuine Fender. Working musicians who need a reliable gigging instrument. Studio musicians seeking quality Tele tone for recording sessions.
Players who appreciate the modern C-shaped neck and 9.5-inch radius for comfortable contemporary playing styles. The flatter fingerboard radius makes this guitar ideal for bending and lead work.
8. Fender Custom Telecaster FMT HH – Premium Pick for Versatility
Fender Custom Telecaster FMT HH Electric Guitar, Features Seymour Duncan ’59/Pearly Gates Humbuckers with Coil Tap, with 2-Year Warranty, Black Cherry Burst
Basswood body
Set neck construction
Seymour Duncan humbuckers
Pros
- Beautiful flame maple top
- Seymour Duncan humbuckers with coil tap
- Set neck construction
- Versatile tones from coil splitting
- Comfortable and light
Cons
- Some units may need setup adjustments
- Saddle adjustment screws can be sharp
- No scratchplate which may concern some users
The Fender Custom Telecaster FMT HH is what I reach for when I need a guitar that can handle any genre. The Seymour Duncan ’59 and Pearly Gates humbuckers, combined with the coil-tap feature, give you everything from Tele twang to full humbucker rock.
The flame maple top is gorgeous. On my Black Cherry Burst test unit, the figuring catches stage lights beautifully. The set neck construction is unusual for a Telecaster and provides enhanced sustain and resonance compared to typical bolt-on designs.
The coil-tap feature is the killer app here. Pull up on the tone knob, and the humbuckers split into convincing single-coil tones. You genuinely get Tele character alongside Les Paul-style thickness in one instrument.
The mahogany set neck has a comfortable C-shaped profile that works well for both rhythm and lead playing. The laurel fingerboard feels smooth and looks rich against the flame maple top.
At 11 pounds, this is a substantial guitar. The weight provides good sustain and resonance, but it’s not ideal for extended standing gigs. The lack of a pickguard might concern players used to traditional Tele aesthetics.
Tonal range and recording versatility
This guitar recorded beautifully in my home studio. The humbuckers handled high-gain rock tones without becoming muddy, and the coil-split sounds worked for indie and clean genres. Having both options in one instrument simplified my session setup considerably.
Live, this guitar cuts through a mix exceptionally well. The humbucker output ensures you’re heard even in dense band arrangements, and the coil-split option provides dynamic range for quieter passages.
Who should buy this
Versatile players who want Tele aesthetics with humbucker tones. Working musicians who need one guitar that handles multiple genres. Studio professionals seeking flexible recording options.
Players who appreciate premium features like set neck construction and Seymour Duncan pickups. Anyone willing to invest in a guitar that bridges the gap between traditional Tele character and modern versatility.
How to Choose the Best Telecaster Guitar for You
Picking the right Telecaster comes down to matching the guitar’s character with your playing style, budget, and genre preferences. Here are the key factors our team considers when recommending Teles.
Skill level matters
Beginners should start with the Squier Debut or Squier Sonic. Both offer genuine Tele character at accessible prices, with forgiving neck profiles and reliable hardware. Spending more on a beginner’s first guitar often means paying for features you won’t appreciate yet.
Intermediate players ready for an upgrade should consider the Classic Vibe series or Fender Player Series. These guitars offer noticeable quality improvements while remaining within reasonable budgets.
Advanced and professional players will appreciate the refinement of the American Professional II or the Custom Telecaster FMT HH. These instruments reward investment with superior tone, playability, and longevity.
Genre considerations
Country and traditional rock players need the classic single-coil twang. The Squier Sonic, Classic Vibe 60s, or American Professional II deliver authentic vintage character.
Blues-rock and modern rock players often prefer humbucker versatility. The Classic Vibe 70s Deluxe with Wide Range humbuckers or the Custom Telecaster FMT HH handle high-gain situations more gracefully than single-coil models.
Indie and alternative players appreciate the tonal flexibility of the Custom Telecaster FMT HH with its coil-tap feature. You get clean twang and dirty humbucker tones from one instrument.
Vintage vs modern specs
Vintage-style Teles feature 7.25-inch radius fingerboards, vintage-tinted gloss necks, and traditional single-coil pickups. These guitars offer authentic 1950s and 1960s Fender character.
Modern Teles feature 9.5-inch or compound radius fingerboards, satin neck finishes, and higher-output pickups. These specifications suit contemporary playing styles and offer improved comfort for many players.
Build quality and setup considerations
Every Telecaster benefits from a professional setup. Budget guitars often arrive with high action, rough fret ends, or poorly cut nut slots. A $50 to $100 setup transforms playability.
Look for string-through-body bridges if you prioritize sustain and resonance. Hardtail bridges (non-tremolo) provide better tuning stability than vintage-style ashtray bridges with bridge plates.
Fretboard material affects both feel and tone. Maple fingerboards offer snappy attack and bright character. Rosewood and Pau Ferro fingerboards provide warmer tones with smoother feel under the fingers.
Budget allocation strategy
If your total budget is under $300, the Squier Debut and Squier Sonic are your best options. These guitars cover the essentials without major compromises.
Between $300 and $600, the Squier Affinity and Classic Vibe series offer noticeable quality improvements. The Classic Vibe 60s Custom in particular punches well above its price point.
The $600 to $1000 range opens up the Fender Player Series, which delivers genuine Fender quality with Mexican-made construction.
Above $1000, you’re shopping premium instruments like the Custom Telecaster FMT HH or the American Professional II. These guitars justify their prices with superior materials, construction, and tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Telecaster guitar for beginners?
The Squier Debut Telecaster and Squier Sonic Telecaster are the best options for beginners in 2026. The Debut offers unbeatable value under $150 with a slim C-shaped neck that is comfortable for smaller hands. The Sonic steps up to slightly better build quality and includes a free Fender Play subscription. Both are designed by Fender and provide genuine Telecaster character that helps beginners develop proper technique.
How much does a good Telecaster cost?
A good Telecaster ranges from around $150 for entry-level Squier models to $2000+ for American-made Fender instruments. The sweet spot for most players is between $400 and $900, where the Classic Vibe series and Player Series deliver excellent quality. Budget options under $300 are great for beginners, while professional players typically invest $1500 to $2500 in American-made guitars.
What is the difference between Telecaster and Stratocaster?
The Telecaster has two single-coil pickups (or humbuckers), a hardtail bridge, and a single cutaway body design. The Stratocaster features three single-coil pickups, a tremolo bridge, and a double cutaway body with contoured edges. Teles are known for twangy, biting tones ideal for country and rock. Strats offer brighter, glassier tones with more tonal options from the five-way pickup selector. Teles generally feel more substantial due to their solid body design.
Which Telecaster is best for blues?
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Custom and Fender American Professional II both excel at blues. The Classic Vibe offers exceptional value with Fender-designed alnico pickups that deliver warm, expressive tones. The American Professional II provides premium clarity and dynamic response for serious players. Both handle clean tones, light overdrive, and classic blues-rock styles with authority.
Are Mexican Fender Teles as good as American ones?
Mexican-made Fender Player Series Teles are excellent guitars that capture about 80% of the American-made experience at roughly 50% of the price. The pickups, hardware, and construction quality are noticeably better than Squier models. American-made Professional and Ultra series Teles offer superior fit, finish, and tonal refinement, but the gap has narrowed significantly over the past decade. For most players, the Player Series represents the best balance of quality and value.
What should I look for when buying a Telecaster?
Focus on three key factors: neck profile comfort, pickup configuration, and build quality. The neck profile should match your hand size and playing style. Pickup configuration (single-coil vs humbucker) determines tonal character. Build quality is reflected in fret finishing, hardware smoothness, and finish quality. Always factor in a professional setup budget of $50 to $100, which dramatically improves playability on any Telecaster.
Is the Player Series Telecaster worth it?
Yes, the Fender Player Series Telecaster offers genuine Fender quality at an accessible price point. The Mexican-made construction delivers clean fit and finish, the Player Series single-coil pickups provide classic Tele character with modern clarity, and the modern C-shaped neck suits contemporary playing styles. For players stepping up from Squier models, the Player Series represents a meaningful upgrade that justifies the investment.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Best Telecaster Guitar
After testing dozens of Telecasters over the past year, our team has reached a clear conclusion. The best telecaster guitars deliver something special that few other guitars can match, that perfect balance of twang, bite, and simplicity that defined rock and country music for generations.
For most players in 2026, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Custom remains our top recommendation. It captures authentic vintage character at a price that won’t break your budget. Beginners should start with the Squier Sonic, and serious players ready to invest should consider the American Professional II.
Whichever Telecaster you choose, take the time to get a proper setup. A $75 investment in professional setup transforms any of these guitars into an instrument you’ll cherish for years.