The "Rosewood Experiment" Squier 40th Anniversary Gold Edition (Ruby Red Metallic)

Not every guitar in my curated collection carries a four-figure price tag from the factory. This instrument is a prime example of an idea.

When I first saw this 40th Anniversary Squier Gold Edition, I was genuinely astonished. Its Ruby Red Metallic finish, paired with the anodized gold pickguard and hardware, was a stunning combination. I’ll admit, I had disconnected from the Squier brand years ago—we all know the "it's for beginners" reputation. But this specific model absolutely fascinated me.

So, I decided to buy a second unit and conduct an experiment. This is that experiment.

I became obsessed with the idea that a 100% solid rosewood neck would look incredible on this guitar. I felt it would flow perfectly with the ruby red and gold color palette, elevating the aesthetic to be even more unique, more premium, and more exclusive.

But I also had a scientific curiosity. I wanted to know how it would really change the sound.

A Sonic Experiment: The Anti-Confirmation Bias

We all know the classic Strat consensus: maple fretboards sound "clanky," and rosewood fretboards sound "warmer." It stands to reason that a full solid rosewood neck would be the warmest, darkest of all, right? I was fully preconditioned to hear a darker, smoother tone.

To my complete surprise, the exact opposite happened. The guitar became noticeably brighter and more articulate.

This is the best proof that the change is real. When you perceive the opposite of what your psychological bias expects you to hear, you know it's not in your head. The wood does change the sound. I know there are YouTube videos from Warmoth and others where it's hard to perceive substantial differences. I can only tell you what I experienced: the fact that I perceived the contrary of my own confirmation bias is proof that the difference is real.

The Upgrades

This is no longer a "simple" Squier. The sourcing of the neck alone was a mission. I started a crazy search for a genuine, 100% solid rosewood Fender neck (which are not easy to find loose). I finally located an original one in France, pulled from a Limited Edition American Professional II model. The neck alone cost €1000.

In addition to this substantial upgrade, the guitar has been professionally outfitted with:

• Tonerider City Limits pickup set (changed after the sound experiment)
• Fender Gold Locking Tuners.
• Full Conductive Shielding (to reduce noise).
• A "7-Way" Switch (a push-pull pot on the volume knob that adds the neck pickup to any position).

This is a spectacular, very light guitar, one-of-a-kind instrument born from a "what if?" experiment.

My Philosophy: My collection is not guided by conventional measures. I appreciate each guitar as a work of art—its beauty, craftsmanship, its exclusivity (being limited, scarce, or hard to obtain), the character revealed in the wood, and the individuality of its form.

Regarding the Sale: This guitar is listed here more as a "gallery" to showcase my collection than a desperate sale. The listed price should be considered a reference price, intended to discourage casual or "light" purchases. I am open to offers only from a true enthusiast who understands and is specifically seeking this particular instrument. If you are passionate about this specific concept and know why you want it, please make an offer, and I will then consider whether or not to sell.