If you’re wondering if Squier Paranormal Cyclone is a good electric guitar or not, don’t worry! In today’s in-depth review, I’m going to take a very close look on that unique axe. It’s a really interesting offset axe, but is it actually good?
The truth is that Squier Paranormal Cyclone offers a really good value for the money. It’s a very interesting guitar – it’s basically a hybrid of a Jaguar, a Strat and a Mustang. As you can imagine, that’s a pretty cool combination!
Let’s dive deeper with research to find out what exactly makes the Cyclone model so good and so popular all around the world. Firstly, we’ll have a look at the detailed specifications of that model. Additionally, we’ll investigate the biggest pros and cons of that axe. Of course, there will be a few sound demos included as well!
Specs & Pricing
Squier Paranormal Cyclone is an affordable offset guitar designed for the most demanding guitarists out there. It combines the best features of three legendary guitar models: Jaguar, Mustang and Stratocaster. And in fact, it’s really popular!
What makes it so cool? Well, the guitar features a lightweight poplar body, a comfortable C-shaped maple neck and an easy playing Indian Laurel fretboard. This is a huge advantage of that model, because it allows you to practice for many hours without feeling tired.
The manufacturer equipped that model with a set of three really good Fender Alnico Single-coil pickups. This pickup setting offers a lot of versatility and it gives you access to a lot of cool tones. Whether you’re looking for glassy cleans or punchy and chunky leads – this guitar can do it all.
What’s interesting, this offset guitar also features the Jaguar’s switching arrangement, which means that you can choose which pickups you want to use at any given time. It’s easy to use and it’s makes this axe extremely versatile.
The Cyclone isn’t too expensive either, so it’s a perfect choice for all guitarists with a tight budget. It’s also available in two different color versions: Pearl White (with tortoiseshell pickguard) and Candy Apple Red (with pearloid pickguard).
Undoubtedly, this is one of the most interesting offset guitars that are currently made by Squier. And that’s why I love it!
Here’s the sound demo – feel free to check it out below.
Who Is It For?
Squier Paranormal Cyclone is suitable for guitar players of all levels. It doesn’t really matter whether you prefer Mustangs, Jaguars or Strats – you will be pleasantly surprised by this interesting model.
In my opinion, the Cyclone model can be efficiently used by both amateurs and more intermediate guitarists.
Thanks to the three single-coil pickups, this is a really versatile axe. It can be used in a lot of different styles of music, so whether you’re into indie, grunge, rock, blues or country – this guitar won’t disappoint you.
It is also worth mentioning that it’s actually a pretty cheap guitar. Although it’s not the cheapest offset guitar by Squier, it’s still a bit more affordable than the guitars from the Classic Vibe Series. That being said, it’s perfect for everyone who doesn’t want to spend too much on new gear!
Overall, I’m positive that the vast majority of guitar players will really benefit from adding this guitar to their collections. Squier did a fantastic job, that’s for sure!
Here’s an another sound demo.
Pros & Cons
Just like any other electric guitar manufactured by Squier, the Paranormal Cyclone model has its own advantages and disadvantages. You don’t have to worry too much about the cons though – it seems pretty clear that there’s not much to complain about.
Pros
- Interesting Look
- Jaguar Pickup Controls
- Comfortable Neck
- High Versatility
Cons
- No Gig Bag Included
- Made In China
As you can see, there are a lot of things that can be considered as the major advantages of that offset model. It sounds, looks and feels really good. On top of that, it’s extremely versatile. Bear in mind that there’s no other guitar like that, so that’s an another good unique selling point!
On the other hand, the Paranormal Cyclone usually comes without a gig bag. It’s not a big problem, but you’ll have to get it separately. If it would be included, it would save you a lot of time.
Also, just like all the other guitars from the Paranormal Series by Squier, this guitar is manufactured in China. This is not necessarily a disadvantage, although the factories in that region usually have a worse quality control than Fender’s factories in Mexico or United States.
Still, I’m positive that the advantages of that model outweigh its disadvantages. I mean, who doesn’t want a hybrid of a Jaguar, Mustang and a Strat? This guitar is truly one-of-a-kind and even though it’s not perfect, it’s definitely worth every cent.
Alternative Options
If you don’t like the sound of Squier Paranormal Cyclone or you simply have a feeling that it won’t be a good fit for you, that’s not a big problem! There’s still quite a lot of other electric guitars that also deserve a lot of attention.
Of course, choosing a new guitar will depend on your own personal preferences and most importantly, on the size of your budget. Still, here’s a few other guitars that you can also consider!
Alternative Option #1 – Squier Contemporary Jaguar
Firstly, I highly encourage you to check out the Squier Contemporary Jaguar HH. This is a really interesting offset guitar which is way more powerful than any other Jag made by this brand.
It is equipped with a pair of powerful humbuckers which are perfect for rock, grunge and metal music. If that’s your kind of vibe, there’s a high chance that you’ll immediately fall in love with it! The only disadvantage is the price – it’s a bit more expensive than Squier Paranormal Cyclone.
Alternative Option #2 – Squier Paranormal Toronado
Alternatively, you can also check out the Squier Paranormal Toronado. Just like the Cyclone model, this is a really unique guitar. It’s hard to compare it with anything else!
The guitar features an offset body which kind of reminds of a Jazzmaster. There’s also a pair of really powerful humbuckers which give you access to a lot of punchy tones. Surely, all lovers of rock music will appreciate the uniqueness of that axe.
When it comes to pricing, it’s pretty much on the same level as the Cyclone. If you think that it will be a better fit for you, you should definitely have a look at it below.
Alternative Option #3 – Squier Bullet Mustang
If you’re on a very tight budget, you should definitely check out the Squier Bullet Mustang. This is actually the cheapest offset guitar offered by Squier. Still, it doesn’t mean that it’s bad. In fact, it offers a pretty good quality!
I had the pleasure to test it out on my own and I was really impressed by the quality of that model. It’s a short scale guitar, so it’s perfect for guitar players with smaller hands and shorter fingers.
I’m sure that anyone who’s searching for the most affordable option out there will really appreciate the high quality of that model. It’s not the best guitar in the world, but it definitely gets the job done!
FAQ
Where is Squier Paranormal Cyclone manufactured?
Squier Paranormal Cyclone is manufactured in China.
Is the Cyclone model good for beginners?
Yes, the Paranormal Cyclone is a fantastic choice for all the amateur and aspiring guitarists.
What is the scale length of that guitar?
The scale length of that guitar has 24.75″.
Where can I find out more about Squier guitars?
If you want to find out more about Squier guitars, you should definitely check out the official website of Fender – they’re the ones who own that brand.
Summary
As you can see, Squier Paranormal Cyclone is a really special electric guitar. If you’re tired of regular Strats, Jaguars and Mustangs and you want to add something very interesting to your guitar collection, this guitar will be an excellent fit for you. It exceeds all the expectations!
What do you think of that offset model? Would you get it for yourself or do you think that it’s overrated? Leave a comment down below and let me know what you think, I’m really interested to hear your thoughts!
Thanks for checking out today’s review, hopefully it was helpful and you found what you were looking for. If you’re searching for more gear recommendations, you may also like:
