Best Strat for about $700,-?

Bartdef

Bartdef

New member
So, I'm kind of looking for a new guitar again, my previously bought guitars just don't fit me. They're all fine instruments, but I just don't think HH is suited for me, I really like having a humbucker in the bridge position for the typically 'rock' kind of sound, however lots of my icons such as Hendrix, Clapton and Knopfler use single coils. This is why I think something like an HSS strat would be perfect for me.
I've had some suggestions already, though very diverse: from a London City Spitfire, to a Fender MIJ to even having a guitar custom built.
But let's be honest first, I'm a 16y/o, only playing guitar for 2 years now and this is my first post :newbie:, so I have no doubt that some of you guys could give me some advice. :)
I'm looking for a guitar (preferably strat, though others are fine too, I really like the shape of a Jazzmaster too for example), for around $700(€500), though it may be more expensive, I can save up ;)

Edit: Also it doesn't already have to be a HSS routed guitar, SSS is fine, I might as well route it later. I have an open mind for all kinds of guitars, just thought this might suit me well, but feel free to suggest complete others ;)
 
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Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

Yamaha Pacifica

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/yamaha-pac112v-electric-guitar

$300



/Thread
 
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Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

Welcome to the forum.

Realistically, €500 is only enough to fetch a non-US Stratocaster style guitar - either brand new or pre-owned. Fender (Japan) and (Mexico) instruments are in your price bracket. Brand new, there are the more expensive Squier ranges and the criminally under-rated G&L Tribute series.

The famous names that you have dropped suggest that your mind is fairly set on something in the exact shape of a Fender Stratocaster rather than, say, an Ibanez or RG.
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

$700 used or new?

Does it have to really look like a Strat?

Does it have to say Fendah?
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

9unslin9er said:
Yamaha Pacifica

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/yamaha-pac112v-electric-guitar

$300



/Thread
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Thank you! Though I do know some people playing it, I never really had the urge to check it out for myself, I defenitely will now!
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

Thanks man!
Yeah sorry. should have added that too, it doesn't necessarily have to be brand new, in fact, I often prefer used guitars, since most of the time it doesn't affect quality, though it does affect the costs :)
You're right about that, I really don't like the pointyness of for example an Ibanez.
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

uOpt said:
$700 used or new?

Does it have to really look like a Strat?

Does it have to say Fendah?
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Thanks for replying!
Used, in my case, since that doesn't affect quality most of the time though it affects the price ;)
Strat shape isn't required, neither does it have to say Fender, as long as the quality is good and the looks are okay ;)
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

Well the best sleepers for cheap and great quality are second-generation Blazers (81-84) and some Roadstar II models. You'll need regular Strat pickups, but wood and craftmanship are first class.

You can try to locate one with their 6-point trem or, my preference, get a hardtail and route it for a Fender 6-point AVRI trem (which also means Callaham and MIJ trems).
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

uOpt said:
Well the best sleepers for cheap and great quality are second-generation Blazers (81-84) and some Roadstar II models. You'll need regular Strat pickups, but wood and craftmanship are first class.

You can try to locate one with their 6-point trem or, my preference, get a hardtail and route it for a Fender 6-point AVRI trem (which also means Callaham and MIJ trems).
Click to expand...

I checked them out and read some good reviews! Also these ones don't look as metal-ish as I usually think Ibanez's look like (I'm wrong and generalising, I know). I will defenitely keep these in mind, thanks!
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

Bartdef said:
Thank you! Though I do know some people playing it, I never really had the urge to check it out for myself, I defenitely will now!
Click to expand...

I do think the Yamaha Pacifica is the best Strat style guitar across ANY price range.

But if you want something similar, and don't mind paying a little more for MUCH better materials, look at the Godin Session as well.

They can be found used for as little as $350 and they're made in Canada, assembled in USA!

http://www.godinguitars.com/godinsessionp.htm

 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

Guitar center is having a sale now for a prs se custom 24 in blue for 450, those are great guitars for a great price brand new
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

I'm a big fan of USA-made G&L Legacys and S-500s, but their Tribute Series guitars are nice too. I have no idea about availability or prices in Europe, but they are worth checking out.

Good luck.

Bill
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

PushedCrayon said:
Guitar center is having a sale now for a prs se custom 24 in blue for 450, those are great guitars for a great price brand new
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Edgecrusher said:
Doesnt help a dude in the Netherlands so much though...
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I believe I can still order at Guitar Center although I'm in the Netherlands, but I searched their site and couldn't find the PRS, I don't know whether I just can't buy it from here or if it's sold out? But thanks for the tip anyway!

However I'm more into vintage strat kinda looks, I heard lots of good stories about Fender MIJ's ('80's), I wouldn't call myself a Fender junk, but would no one recommend me getting on of those?
 
Re: Best Strat for about $700,-?

Boogie Bill said:
I'm a big fan of USA-made G&L Legacys and S-500s, but their Tribute Series guitars are nice too. I have no idea about availability or prices in Europe, but they are worth checking out.

Good luck.

Bill
Click to expand...

Thanks man!
I've already heard some others who swear by those,
pricing and availability is in Europe pretty much the same as in the US.
I definitely like the S-500's! http://www.gear4music.com/Guitar-and-Bass/GandampL-Tribute-S-500-Guitar-RW-Tobacco-Sunburst/W13
 
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