Best years for american stratocasters. It's not a vintage spec reissue like the AVRI series.

Best years for american stratocasters. New information is constantly coming to light, as are new and better example photos. The mia strats good. Stratocaster value by year of manufacture: The serial number is one quick way to find the year of a Stratocaster, but it's only the first step identifying the year of manufacture. Discover your ideal Stratocaster with insights on playability, tone, and value. A 1987 Fender American Standard Stratocaster in Torino Red. If you aren't buying a Pre-CBS strat but don't want to buy brand new what are some good years and models? Jan 29, 2024 · Find the year your Fender Stratocaster was made using serial numbers, neck dates, and features. substantiated…? Subscribed 15K 681K views 2 years ago Enter to win the Fender American Vintage II Strat HERE: https://kingsumo. You cannot go wrong with a mij strat. Nearly forty years Jun 19, 2022 · A comprehensive buyer’s guide to all Fender and Squier Stratocaster series electric guitars to help you choose the best Strat model for you. It uses a thinner Brazilian rosewood for the fretboard to create brighter tones, an Alder body, and a Maple neck. com/g/axzv5u/fender-more Apr 1, 2023 · The American Vintage series (2012-2017), also known as Pure Vintage, was essentially the production model of the Fender Custom Shop Time Machine series. Mar 12, 2010 · What are the best Stratocaster years other than vintage? by jm707 » Sat Feb 11, 2012 12:29 am Looking at buying a Strat, I have a pretty good idea of what I want to get but I'd like to take a poll. Undoublty, these periods were later identified as specific years, with the most evocative being ’54, ’57, ’59, ’62, ’65 & ‘69. Upon first glance, these American Standard guitars might just look like any old Strat, but contemporary features like a flatter fingerboard radius, thinner Mar 15, 2025 · A roundup of Fender Stratocasters under $1500, with current pricing from the most trusted retailers. " Years after the quote, the Strat is as popular as ever and evolved with the times. Oct 14, 2025 · A price guide for the Fender Stratocaster, updated in real time, covering the most popular models (Player, American, and Deluxe series). Also, […] In 2000, Fender retired the American Standard Stratocaster and launched the American Series—a modern update featuring improved craftsmanship and refined electronics. They used really good wood, and their paint/finish teams were top notch. The Fender Stratocaster, colloquially known as the Strat, is a model of double- cutaway electric guitar designed between 1952 and 1954 by Leo Fender, Bill Carson, George Fullerton, and Freddie Tavares. Feb 14, 2025 · So which is the best Strat for you? Well, my top pick right now goes to the Fender American Ultra II HSS Stratocaster which marries old school charm with a contemporary twist. ) The Plus Series consisted of the Plus, the Plus Deluxe, and then later, in 1990, the Ultra. This Strat is the real deal. The American Professional is by far my favorite, mainly because of the neck. Feb 24, 2022 · Fender has continued to produce the Stratocaster in a variety of forms through eight decades, and today you can buy brand new or classic used Strats in many different forms. [1] The guitar's distinctive body shape was revolutionary when introduced in the mid-1950s 4 days ago · Here’s an amazing player. Buy a Fender American Stratocaster today! Jun 20, 2018 · The Strat Plus Series was introduced by Fender in 1987 and was the highest-end production model next to Fender’s Custom Shop guitars. Sep 19, 2024 · How much did a Stratocaster cost in 1957? Fender's price list from 1957 is the best place to find out how much a Stratocaster cost in 1957: $249. The article discusses the specs and features of this special guitar. I'm more interested to find out what strats from the 80s, 90s and 00s are like. The Pure Vintage '65 pickups are the best thing about it imo. Wax poetically on the punchy ambitious hum of We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. The Plus Series was a very good attempt to reclaim Fender USA’s floundering reputation, as quality had drasically Jul 1, 2025 · Fender Strats changed drastically over the first 30 years of life. Expert dating guide for Stratocasters. In my experience the Japanese ones feel nicer while the American ones are nicer instruments. Jan 29, 2010 · I picked up an EJ Strat, which is the first Strat I've owned in close to 20 years. Begin your exploration now! A re issue 57 or 58. Also, […] Jan 26, 2022 · What is my Fender Stratocaster worth? Stratocaster electric guitars cost between $180 and $2500. May 6, 2009 · My 2002 American Series Strat (the ‘American Series’, from 2000 - 2007, came in between the first and second iterations of the American Standard line) is one of the best sounding later Strats I’ve ever played, but that might be due in part to its unusually thick neck. But with prices soaring for American-made models, many players wonder: Can you still get a great Strat under $1,000? The answer is yes – if you know where to look. If you can find one for $1500, you’re in the same ballpark as a new American strat, but you have a better guitar. The thing is, even in the best years they made some lemons, and in the worst years some gems. Covers pricing and basic features for the popular electric guitar. The Fender American Stratocaster is perhaps the foundation of the Fender line and represent the best ideas learned over 50 plus years of making their iconic instruments. May 10, 2021 · The full guide to the best Fender Stratocasters written by an expert. Apr 30, 2021 · This left the players with referential configurations of the guitar as for what was available during certain production periods. Dive deep into the unique sounds and find your match. Tried several others but have stayed with this one. TSA cases are a nice touch as well. Jul 16, 2024 · If you’re in a hurry, here’s a short summary: 1954 – 1965 are recognized as Fender’s first ‘golden age,’ starting with the release of the first edition Stratocaster in 1954 and ending with Fender’s acquisition by CBS in 1965. Aug 11, 2024 · If you're looking for the best Fender Stratocaster guitars, look no further! Over the years I have tested tons of them, and in this article, I share my favorites at different price points. Here, I'll review my Fender Mexican Standard guitar in detail and guide you into modding the guitar to match any expectation or stage. This Squier Affinity Series HSS Stratocaster, for example, has one of the best-looking finishes ever applied to a Strat, with a stunning flamed-maple veneer painted in Sienna Sunburst. ) were particularly noteworthy and appealing. Just buying a guitar from 19XX doesn't mean it's going to be great. Be advised that Stratocaster serial numbers are located on easily replaceable parts from 1954 until 1976, so it's not Jun 9, 2023 · From Slowhand’s Strat to “tongue-in-cheek” relics, this is the hidden history of the Fender Custom Shop Fender American Ultra Luxe Vintage ’50s Telecaster and ’60s Strat HSS review What should you prioritise if you’re looking for a ’70s Strat? “Weight is the main thing. Find out the differences between three decades of the world's best selling guitar. If you can play each, see which feels more comfortable in your hands. Jul 19, 2024 · Navigating the Stratocaster's evolution reveals a complex tapestry of tone, aesthetic, and playability, but which year reigns supreme? Apr 12, 2022 · While certain years for the Stratocaster stand out, 1962 stands above all of them. Jul 18, 2024 · Current Fender collections such as the Vintera II “Best of the Decades” models and American Vintage II (which focuses on specific years) can get you extremely close to the feel and sound of vintage Stratocasters—and at “non-vintage” prices. Sep 5, 2023 · From Slowhand’s Strat to “tongue-in-cheek” relics, this is the hidden history of the Fender Custom Shop Behind the scenes at the Fender Custom Shop – where anything goes, and heritage and innovation go hand in hand Best Squier guitars 2025: Stratocasters, Telecasters, Jaguars and more for the budget-conscious player We’re going to exclude reissues from the reckoning, since they are The best year for the Fender Stratocaster was 1962. The Gear Page Fender is one of the top electric guitar brands around, and when it comes to workhorse guitars, my Fender American Performer Stratocaster is at the top of my list. Mar 21, 2025 · Discover the 5 most valuable vintage Fender Stratocaster guitars we've handled at True Vintage Guitar. But with so many options available, finding the best Stratocaster for your I have a 1990 or 91 MIM Standard Strat and it made my 2001 American Standard feel and sound like utter crap. Pick up one of these and begin to understand Feb 12, 2022 · I’ve seen one from 1986 priced quite high due to it being claimed they were built buy custom shop guys from the Fullerton plant…. Compared to other years, there were more changes made to the Stratocaster that year than usual. Any opinions? Aug 17, 2005 · The American Professional series has taken over and 2016 was the last year for the beloved American Standard series. Jan 28, 2024 · Squier is Fender’s budget import brand, and in years gone by their reputation wasn’t exactly stellar. The newer Player Stratocasters made in Mexico are even more similar to the American strats inheriting the 2 point bridge and 22 fret neck among other things. The absolute best value strat will be a late 80’s or early 90’s strat plus. (Production stopped in late 1998 or early 1999. Share your tech tips, dream setups and musings. The time now is . Discuss the craftsmanship, history, and innovations that have defined Fender's legacy. But things have recently taken a huge turn for the better. Jan 9, 2025 · Compare Fender Stratocaster models in a table, side-by-side. I’ve owned American Standards, American Deluxe and now have an American Professional II. 5" radius fretboard with vintage features, like nitro lacquer finish, a 6 point trem, and heel truss rod adjustment. The Japanese ones get beat up faster, don’t have quite as nice pickups, and are usually more like the best version of a vintage strat versus the best version of every strat. Find different types of Fender Stratocasters in a variety of styles and budgets. The jap Strat was far Amd above way better quality. Order Fender Stratocaster Guitars from American Musical Supply. guide, too. what are the best year models to look into? A USA Fender Strat Deluxe from the late 80’s/early 90’s with the Lace Sensors and rolling nut are awesome. when they moved to corona plant From 1982-1984 both the '57 and '62 AVRI strats were available built at Fullerton… Is the claim the 86 is better…. 7. It stands out from the other model years because the manufacturer made more changes to the guitar than usual. If you are searching for information about a model that does not appear in either section, please check back again from time to time. The Fender Stratocaster is the quintessential guitar of Rock and Roll. Don’t get me wrong. Nov 25, 2009 · If you're looking for best VFM, I'd have to agree that 2012-now is probably the best guitar you can get for the cash layout. But fret not, I've included some more affordable models from both Fender and Squier in this. There are so many new Strat models out today I've lost track of the evolution and model name changes of the American made Startocasters ( Standard and Mar 30, 2024 · Find out what makes the Fender American and Mexican Stratocasters different so you can choose the right guitar, by looking at how well they are made, how good the sound is, and how much they cost. Dec 15, 2023 · Uncover the finest Fender Stratocaster guitars in our expert guide. 4 days ago · Overview The first generation of Fender's famed American Standard Stratocaster was introduced in 1986, building upon the success of the company's vintage reissue guitars while offering some modern touches and a wealth of finish options. The American Standard would prove to be Fender’s flagship instrument for over a decade. Jan 26, 2019 · I'm thinking of picking up a used American Standard Stratocaster (SSS), and with so many of them on the market, I'm wondering if there are particular years or periods when the specs on this model (neck profile, pickups, frets, etc. The player series brings the MIM spec to 100% parts compatibility with the current US spec. Oct 8, 2021 · What are the best years of Fender Stratocasters to Buy? If you are considering buying a Stratocaster, the best period to buy is the years of the Pre-CBS Era, which is from 1954 to 1964. Nov 4, 2024 · 4 Best Fender Stratocasters for Intermediate Guitar Players You could list just about any Fender Stratocaster here, but I've highlighted four of my favorites that I've recommended most frequently over the years. A little at a time also other guitars belonging to the Standard Series were presented, including the Standard Fat Strat (or Standard Strat HSS) and the Floyd Rose Standard Stratocaster (modified several times over the years), the Standard Stratocaster Plus Top (and derived), the Roland Ready or the Stratocaster Junior. Squier Stratocasters are more affordable versions which range from roughly $180-$500. Jan 23, 2022 · The best years to buy a Fender Telecaster and the worst years to avoid, the golden and dark ages of the first mass-produced electric guitar. The first series was called the "American Standard Stratocaster" and produced between 1988 and 2000. Delve into the iconic models renowned for their exceptional sound and build quality, perfect for musicians of all levels. Apr 27, 2025 · Best Fender Stratocasters Under $1,000 (2024): Ultimate Buyer’s Guide For over 60 years, the Fender Stratocaster has defined electric guitar tone. Perfect examples of this can be seen in the Vintera and American Original ranges, as well as Sep 17, 2022 · Whether you’ve damaged the neck on your Strat, or you simply want to upgrade, we share the best replacement necks for stratocasters. Both this section, Strats by Year, and the section titled Strats by Model, are ongoing projects. Jan 23, 2025 · Since its debut in 1954, the Strat has inspired countless variations, making the search for the best Stratocaster a daunting task. In this guide, we’ll break down: The 5 best Fender Strats under $1,000 Key Jun 8, 2023 · Explore the factors influencing the price of used Fender Stratocasters and learn how to assess the value of your instrument. Other than a refret and blocked bridge, still all original and to me, dang good guitar. The Fat 50s in the 2012s are great pickups, and the QC is spot on. It's not a vintage spec reissue like the AVRI series. Mike Lewis was known for revitalizing Fender’s evolving amp line and later Nov 20, 2009 · I see these "just pulled out from under the bed" 90's Strats on ebay all the time. Quality Amd fret work has game way way way down. Many believe that A full directory of Stratocasters made in USA, factory and Custom Shop, listed by years of production, accompanied by specifications and images. I’ve owned mine for around six years now and have both recorded numerous albums and played several shows with it. [1] The guitar's distinctive body shape was revolutionary when introduced in the mid-1950s Mar 9, 2024 · Looking to buy a used Fender Telecaster, and want to know which years to seek or avoid. Pups and hardware can be changed. Nov 29, 2021 · I reviewed ten of the best Fender Stratocaster guitars on the market to give you a glimpse of how they play, their features, and their potential downsides. In this guide Fender Insiders will review and compare the following 8 popular series of the iconic Stratocaster®: Identify your Fender Stratocaster's exact age with our detailed dating guide. Fender Stratocasters are the most expensive, ranging from $500-$2500, with the most popular Fender American Professional Stratocaster costing around $1500. I'm especially fond of the examples made in Leo Fender's final year as the president of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, 1965. Launched in 2019 the Fender American Ultra Stratocaster is collectible. Its iconic design, smooth playability, and versatile sound have made it a staple for countless legendary musicians. The neck and fretboard were both maple. The Stratocaster® is the quintessential electric guitar—a worldwide archetype; the basic form that leaps to mind at the very mention of the phrase "electric guitar. Fender has continuously produced a standard American Stratocaster since the mid-1980s, but there are three distinct models within the series. . But with so many options available, finding the best Stratocaster for your Nov 20, 2009 · I see these "just pulled out from under the bed" 90's Strats on ebay all the time. Leo Fender made minor updates to the sound, feel and style each year. We all know that the early 60s was a great period for fender. About 15 years later I got a 2001 mia strat. Jan 22, 2002 · Is a particular year/years of the MIJ Fednder Strat Reissue guitar that are great? I seem to recall mention a long time ago that there was a specific time when the MIJ Strats were of super high quality. Covers pre-CBS, CBS-era, and modern Strats with serial number decoder, features chart, and value insights. Now if you’re talking about 80s jap vrs American Aug 24, 2025 · 1. May 20, 2022 · MIM Strats…best years? Electric GuitarsAll times are GMT -6. Nearly forty years The Fender Stratocaster, colloquially known as the Strat, is a model of double- cutaway electric guitar designed between 1952 and 1954 by Leo Fender, Bill Carson, George Fullerton, and Freddie Tavares. This American Professional II version gives you all the airy bloom and high-fidelity tone of the best original models, as well as incorporating some modern refinements that add sonic versatility, playability, and functionality. The Fender Musical Instruments Corporation has continuously manufactured the Stratocaster since 1954. It boasts a wide range of tones and looks the business too. Aug 18, 2014 · Ah yes, the topic "Best year for American Standard Strat"! In my experience, the absolute best year for any maker and model is the year the player practices a lot. The definitive ‘best year’ for a Stratocaster is 1962. Learn what makes these rare pre-CBS Stratocasters so collectible—and how much they're worth today. Oct 14, 2025 · A roundup of the best Fender Stratocasters with reviews, ratings, and thoroughly explained recommendations. Here's an expert look at some of the standout series and models. The Gear Page Oct 30, 2015 · Just creating a fresh thread to see what peoples opinions are on what some of the best strat years are. Both this section, Strats by Model, and the section titled Strats by Year, are ongoing projects. A full archive of Stratocasters, listed by series and years of production, accompanied by specs and images. I've heard people say that their build quality is that of the American made, I've even heard people say that they're as good as some custom shop guitars (they have to be trolling). Any info/opinion on the subject is appreciated as I've read many conflicting things on online forums over the years specifically about MiM Strats. The highest-priced model included, the American Vintage ‘65 Stratocaster, at $2,350, carries a higher price tag as an original-era model year guitar built with meticulous attention to accurate detail, from the American Vintage ’65 Gray-Bottom Single-Coil Pickups to the flash-coat lacquer finish. With street prices under $1,200, the Fender American Standard Stratocaster is an excellent choice for those looking for the fusion of old and new. From bluesy bends to searing solos, the Stratocaster delivers a tone that is both powerful and nuanced. A Stratocaster for today's player The Stratocaster is Leo Fender's svelte, sophisticated, and famously versatile guitar. Show off your New Guitar Day (NGD) brags, your road worn relics, or anything else related to Fender. Fender sum up these changes with '50s, '60s and '70s Strat models, mixing and matching each decade's greatest features. Mar 10, 2022 · Why a mid-priced and “ugly” Mexican Strat is causing a stir at Norman’s Rare Guitars What is the best Stratocaster in 2025? I've been playing Strats for 20 years - here are my top picks Zakk Wylde on selling – and buying back – his first good guitar, and why others should avoid the same mistake The Stratocaster's core design was tweaked and tinkered extensively over the first 30 years of its existence. Are they any better or any worse than the current ones? Jan 15, 2025 · The Fender Stratocaster, a name synonymous with rock and roll, has captivated guitarists for decades. Welcome to r/Fender, a home for all things Fender Guitars from Strats and Teles to P-Basses and Jazzmasters. These years marked important eras in the development and the instrument. The Player Series starting in 2018 is exactly the same as the now-canceled American Standard from 2017 except the pickups and the 3-piece bodies on the Player. Learn about wood quality differences between past and present models. For instance, an American Vintage 56 Stratocaster and and Custom shop 56 Stratocaster Time Machine were identical spec wise. You can use our Fender Serial Lookup to quickly check the serial number of your Stratocaster. I'm not a Strat connoisseur, but the difficulty in selecting and setting one up well is maybe the main thing that kept me away for so long. Jun 20, 2018 · In 1986, the new Fender began manufacture of the American Standard, a revised edition of the 1982 Standard (“Dan Smith”) Stratocaster. For those of us that will be navigating the used gear market to grab a MIA standard down the line. Mar 16, 2025 · Stratocasters are the most versatile and best overall solid body electric guitars ever made, depending on who you ask of course! But if you ask me, I think the L Serial number Fender Stratocasters are peak. Nov 1, 2000 · Many marked refinements were incorporated in the year 2000 Fender American Standard Strat, and we cover all the bases in this comprehensive review. 50 for a Stratocaster with Synchronized Tremolo, and as much as $330 for the Stratocaster in Blond finish with 14 Carat Gold Plated hardware! Fender offered three different versions of the Stratocaster in 1957 with three Perhaps contrary to popular opinion, but still have my 1988 American Strat I bought new 36 years ago. Jan 29, 2024 · Find the year your Fender Stratocaster was made using serial numbers, neck dates, and features. Our Sep 2, 2025 · Guitars What is the best Stratocaster in 2025? I've been playing Strats for 20 years - here are my top picks A Short Guide to Finding the Best Stratocaster for You and Your Budget Photo by American Vintage Guitar. The Mar 9, 2024 · Looking to buy a used Fender Telecaster, and want to know which years to seek or avoid. 25 radius. Jan 19, 2024 · Fender’s Mike McCready Stratocaster is a ding-for-ding recreation and the most expensive Mexican guitar the brand currently produces, is it worth it? Aug 31, 2023 · American vs Mexican Fender guitars: Move beyond the price tag. Definitely better, it’s Fender’s best upgrade platform ever. It blends modern features like a 9. The same guy has a newer video explaining why the American Stratocasters don't say Made in USA on the neck anymore. The American Original series is kind of a weird hodgepodge strat. Produced during the first years of the American Standard line from Fender these Strats are known to be among the best Fender has offered in its post CBS era. 50 for a hardtail, $274. Oct 14, 2025 · The Stratocaster has maintained its place as Fender's top-selling electric guitar, and in this article we're going to take a look at some of the best models for your first (or your fifth) Strat. Sep 3, 2021 · Fender has built over 200 kinds of Telecasters. 4 days ago · Here’s an amazing player. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry – we’re here to help you find the perfect Strat for your needs. I wouldent buy any new Mia strays. If budget really isn't any issue you need to get to some vintage guitar dealers and try some out until you find what you're looking for. I didn't like the chunky vintage neck, especially when paired While the original reissues from the ’80s represented Fender’s best work at the time, the new machinery and in-depth research by master builder Michael Stevens—who meticulously studied vintage Fender models to develop the Custom Shop’s Time Machine Series—laid the foundation for the American Vintage Series. zk7ck bmbnx h6w lky5 pr0r5 ki1e tt79q9x 3cp jdfu oa6