Wow. I don't say that much but in this case, I am super impressed. First of all by far one of the best set ups right out of the box I have ever received. Perfect intonation, string height, and neck relief. What a pleasure in being able to receive a guitar and not have to do a set up immediately. Received mine in sonic blue, the finish was flawless and believe me, I checked and checked for some sort of a flaw in the finish but couldn't find one. What an awesome pick up configuration. Fender should have done this a long time ago. This sucker really growls. I am impressed with the tones this puppy is able to produce. In pick up positions 1, 3 and 5 I kind of sounds a bit Les Paulish with lots of crunch and volume. In positions 2 and 4, you actually get some of that old Strat, bell type, quacky tone, very versatile tone. Got mine with the maple fret board. Only other Strat I own is a 80's Jap build and the necks are quite different. This Strat seems to be a bit on the thinner side, with lots more lacquer on the fretboard. I really like it, it's very, very playable. As for a weight comparison, this Strat seem to be a bit lighter than the my 80's strat but not drastically different. This thing really stays in tune. While I don't usually use the whammy bar, I put it on just to test it out and I gave it a really good beating......stays in tune quite well I am impressed. I feel like a kid all over again with this guitar. I don't want to put it down. Very nice job… read more by Fender on this one. Very playable, a tone monster, well built and great looking at a great price.

Musical Background:
25 + years, have played professionally, now jamming just for fun

Musical Style:
Rock, Metal, Classical, Blues read less