MIA vs MIM vs etc.. (Telecaster questions)

[FallingSunrise]

Sort of a broad question, but what is the quality difference between MIA and MIM these days. I know late 90s through early 2000s the ranking tended to be MIA to MIJ to MIM to “you probably shouldn’t buy this,” but a lot of imports really seem to have stepped up quality wise (MIK ESP 1000 series, PRS SE series). Is there really a noticeable difference in build quality and wood quality (not as concerned about electronics)? Specifically looking at these two telecasters

https://www.sweetwater.com/store/de...telecaster-cosmic-jade-with-maple-fingerboard
Vs

https://www.sweetwater.com/store/de...lecaster-dark-night-with-rosewood-fingerboard
Based on the research I’ve done, they both look to be routed for humbucker in the bridge position under the pick guard (a change I’d likely want to make - speaking of which - any recommendations on HB sized p90s?).

Thoughts? Thank you in advance for all the advice/opinions.

 

[cobrahead1030]

I've found modern USA fenders to be a few steps above their MIM counterparts, as they've always been.

...but at their current price point, I'm looking at the USA G&L equivalent, which I think are consistently better builds than USA standard fenders.

It's been a while since I've looked into specifics, but if you're willing to go through a dealer and order one, you can get some pretty cool options that you won't see on your typical in stock Sweetwater guitars, and it doesn't cost that much more.

 

[napalmdeath]

I'd say it depends.. For me, I think their pickups suck across the board, (humbuckers anyway), and alot of the MIM and MIA share the same hardware/electronics.

I would say MIM is more than adequate if you're looking to do some upgrades. I would also say there's other "T" and "S" style imports out there from other manufacturers I'd take over MIA Fender.

Boils down to what you're after/needs.