Which Strat?

McMalley

I've been getting into the blues a lot lately and I've become a big fan of that classic Strat sound (particularly SRV), so I'm looking to get my hands on one. I've been looking around online and it seems there's dozens of different types (I may be wrong). I'm normally a Gibson man so my Fender knowledge ain't what it should be. Can anyone suggest which model to go for and maybe even where to get it for the best price? My limit would probably be around €1000 but if I can get what I'm looking for for less than I will, I'm not just gonna spend money for the sake of it.

darrenw5094

Gibson people sometimes try the Fender Strat thing and vice versa, but usually it doesn't work out. Gibson and Fender are probably 2 completely guitars.

Second hand USA Strats for under €700 these days. Avoid those Highway Strats, as they don't have that famous Strat tone. I think the Strat Plus from '88 and '89 are the best second hand Fenders for that price.
Plenty of them on Ebay.

Don't fall for the 'vintage' craze just yet. Crazy prices for average, not so vintage guitars. You don't want to pay an extra €500 for a mojo that has been invented by some seller.

nomorebadtown

lob some texas specials in there why dont ye

A7X

and if ya want SRV's tone make sure ya play very heavey guage strings! It's not neccesary but if ur picky lol go for it! But be careful it will rip ur fingers =/ but u will get used to it

Johnny Storm

I would say -try as many strats as you can and see what you like. The main differences are in neck profile, fret size, pickups and appearance. It'd be an odd strat indeed that wouldn't be good for the blues

Quattroste

A highway 1 strat will get you those famous strat tones but they are not the best strats. For a grand you will pick up a sweet Strat and don't be surprised if you do manage to enjoy it even though you had a Gibson before.

johnboy8

i have the deluxe hss strat,very versatile,especially with the s1 switch which give you 8 different pick up tones,including out off phase settings which i find very usable.

Alanstrainor

Johnny Storm wrote: »

I would say -try as many strats as you can and see what you like. The main differences are in neck profile, fret size, pickups and appearance. It'd be an odd strat indeed that wouldn't be good for the blues

+1, any strat you find comfortable will cover you. You can always upgrade pickups to something more "stratty" should you want to. The classic players strats are actually very nice guitars for the money, although you'll probably be looking for something a bit "nicer".

les-paul

Not totally on topic but this is something that has always driven me mad: the huge number of models Fender has put together around the Strat: Standard, then American Standard, American Deluxe, Custom shop, custom shop master built, Classic player, Closset classic, Highway 1, then there are all the signatures (some Mexican, some American), the 25th, 50th and 60th anniversary editions... no wonder the OP is confused about this!

Johnny Storm

You're right. The last I heard there's over 60 different flavours of Strat not counting the Custom Shop. Obviously Fender marketing dept think they can sell more Strats that way. I just think it's confusing. They seem to be reluctant to make clear what the difference between the models is, too.
Trying out as many as possible is your best bet.

Ancient1

Johnny Storm wrote: »

You're right. The last I heard there's over 60 different flavours of Strat not counting the Custom Shop.

But we'd still like to have one of each. :P

punchdrunk

i've i got mij '62 strat,and the neck of this yoke is incredible! i stuck a set of bareknuckle into it and i love it vintage feel and stunning sounds :pac: