This is a the perfect tool for cover bands. The various textures will get you through most anything. The operative words are "get you through". It's a basic Strat, good in every way, but a little tougher to play than my Jap Strat. However, the variety of sounds will win every time. I bought a Factory 2nd and new G5 simultaneously intending to return the lesser candidate. Surprisingly, the Factory 2nd had no flaws, made a nicer presentation, played better, and was $400 less. Perhaps, it was a demo used at vendor shows. The G5 is labeled "Made in Mexico" but I was told the components are re-badged American. I have no reason to suspect otherwise. The neck feels like a Standard Strat C-shape, maybe a little chunkier profile. Finnish looks great. The alder (I think) body had one glue seam that was barely visible, therefore not one-piece body. The magnetic pickups are nothing special, but I hardly use them anyway. The Roland pick-up has far more advantages with tuning features and a Strat model that is as good or better than the magnetics. I am fond of the Tele model for a pure Leo sound. Add 12-string tuning and get something reminiscent of Rickenbacker chime. A humbucker model rounds out the palette for mid-range dirt. Mind you, the sounds are close, but not perfect. Since it's a working tool, it's for the listener who usually can't discern the difference. Also, I bought a second battery pack from the Roland Factory. Found out the hard way a battery change… read more is time consuming (middle of set). Yes, I should have started the gig with good batteries .. . The battery configuration is four AA's snapped into an assembly (battery pack) that then slides into the back of the body. A second battery pack with fresh batteries is always nearby for a quick change. To share my perspective, when G5 arrived 6 months ago I immediately started thinking in terms of swapping out pickups and neck for an ultimate guitar. Then changed my mind thinking it is great for what it is - a Swiss Army Knife. Maybe not a principle instrument, but a valued addition for band work. And in that spirit, it is a noble beast. The Roland electronics may be dated in 10 years, but longevity is for vintage instruments. In the meantime, G5 will get well used.

Musical Background:
Amateur old school, started 4 decades ago.

Musical Style:
Christian, R&B, Classic Rock, and Jazz read less