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Average Price: $800

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special offers a fresh take on a beloved classic, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern enhancements. This guitar is engineered for the discerning player who desires both vintage flair and contemporary versatility. At the heart of this Stratocaster are the hotter Texas Special pickups, which deliver that sought-after punch and clarity, making it a go-to choice for blues, country, and indie rock enthusiasts.

Adding to its uniqueness is the innovative Greasebucket tone circuit. This feature ensures you maintain consistent volume while rolling off the highs, for a balanced and smooth tonal experience. The flatter neck radius offers improved playability, perfect for those who love fast solos and comfortable chording. With its vintage-spec tremolo, this guitar not only looks the part but performs exceptionally, providing the classic ‘whammy’ effects without compromising stability.

Whether you're a seasoned player or just stepping into the world of American-made Fenders, the American Special Stratocaster is your trusted companion on stage and in the studio. Its design and features make it a standout choice for musicians looking to fuse tradition with innovation.

Key Features:

  • Texas Special pickups for enhanced sound clarity
  • Greasebucket tone circuit for consistent volume and bass levels
  • Flatter neck radius for improved playability
  • Vintage-spec tremolo for classic effects
  • Ideal for blues, country, and indie rock genres

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model American Special Stratocaster
Finish 2-Color Sunburst, Black, Candy Apple Red, Mystic Seafoam Green Metallic, Olympic White, Sonic Blue, Surf Green, Walnut
Year 2010 - 2018
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Green, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 9.5"
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.6875"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender American Special, Fender FSR Limited Edition
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What are the standout features of the 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special?

The 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special features an alder body, Texas Special™ pickups, a 9.5” radius maple neck, and jumbo frets. It also includes a Vintage-Style Synchronized Tremolo, offering a classic Stratocaster sound and feel.

Is the 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special suitable for beginners?

The 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special is suitable for both beginners and experienced players, offering versatile tones and comfortable playability. Its jumbo frets and smooth neck make it easy to play, while the Texas Special™ pickups provide a range of sounds.

How does the 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special compare to the American Standard?

The American Special features jumbo frets compared to the medium jumbo frets on the American Standard, providing a slightly different playing feel. Both models offer high-quality construction and sound, but the Special is often considered more accessible in terms of price.

What kind of music genres is the 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special best suited for?

The 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special is versatile and well-suited for genres such as rock, blues, and pop. Its Texas Special™ pickups deliver a range of tones from bright and clean to warm and overdriven.

Does the 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special have a tremolo bridge?

Yes, the 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special features a Vintage-Style Synchronized Tremolo bridge, allowing for expressive pitch modulation and classic Stratocaster vibrato effects.

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2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special

Video thumbnail for 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special by GregsGuitars

2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special

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Video thumbnail for 2010 Fender Stratocaster "American Special" by GregsGuitars

2010 Fender Stratocaster "American Special"

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Reviews

PROS

  • Texas Special pickups deliver powerful tones with extra midrange punch

  • Greasebucket tone circuit provides versatile sound options without sacrificing clarity

  • Comfortable "modern C" solid maple neck enhances playability

  • Jumbo frets make bending notes effortless

  • Lightweight design offers comfort for long playing sessions

  • Vintage 70's peghead and surf green color for a retro aesthetic

  • Excellent build quality for a reasonable price

  • Wide tonal range with the 5-position switch

  • U.S. made, providing a sense of authenticity and quality

CONS

  • Fret ends can be rough and may require adjustment

  • Discontinued model, making it harder to find and more expensive

  • Noticeable seams in the sunburst finish may affect aesthetics

  • Modern tuners may not appeal to vintage purists

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 2010 Fender Stratocaster American Special.

Features and functionality

  • The 2010 American Special Stratocaster is equipped with Texas Special pickups, known for their distinct, powerful tone which some find unusual.

    Source
  • The HSS configuration offers a dynamic neck pickup sound with a more compressed bridge pickup, providing versatility for rock music.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners highlight the guitar's ability to stay in tune remarkably well, contributing to a reliable playing experience.

    Source
  • One owner reported playing their American Special daily and expressed high satisfaction after nearly a year of use.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some prefer the aesthetics of the Player series over the sunburst finish of the American Special, which can appear less distinctive due to its commonality among beginner models.

    Source
  • The American Performer series succeeded the American Special, offering a similar entry-level USA option with slight updates.

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  • The neck profile of the American Special is more common and preferred over deep V-shaped necks found in some signature models, like the Ed O'Brien Stratocaster.

    Source
  • The American Special's feel and neck profile may appeal more to players familiar with Fender's 25.5" scale length compared to Gibson's 24.75".

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners consider swapping the Texas Special pickups for humbuckers to achieve a different sound profile.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A mint American Special is considered a good deal at $800, though some debate its price against past new prices.

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  • A used American Special Stratocaster HSS without a hard case is considered overpriced at £850 ($1,152.64 USD), as a new hard case can cost around $200.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The American Special is not ideal for metal or heavier music styles; players should consider their specific genre needs before purchasing.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender American Special Stratocaster Review - Solid Axe!

cigilovic.com

The Fender American Special Stratocaster shines as a solid choice for both enthusiasts and professionals, thanks to its classic features and American craftsmanship. The reviewer appreciates the thin lacquer on the maple neck and the vintage aesthetics, which provide a smooth playability and a nostalgic vibe. However, it’s noted that this model has been phased out in favor of the American Performer series, which includes some upgrades but lacks a groundbreaking redesign. While it remains an excellent value under €1000, potential buyers should consider if the Performer’s enhancements justify an upgrade. Overall, the American Special stands strong, but it's essential to weigh it against its newer counterpart.

positive

Fender American Special Stratocaster review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Fender's 2010 American Special Stratocaster strikes a perfect balance between affordability and quality, boasting a delightful neck and impressive tonal versatility. While the guitar’s build quality and aesthetics impress, the included gig bag feels subpar, and a glossy headstock would elevate its look. Nonetheless, it delivers exceptional playability and sound—making it a worthy choice for both casual and professional players alike.

positive

Fender American Special Strat & Tele: Expert Reviews - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

Fender's American Special Stratocaster American Special series delivers impressive value, combining American craftsmanship with affordability. The Texas Special pickups and unique Greasebucket circuit add character, making it a solid choice for players seeking a reliable workhorse. However, the limited finish options and the requirement for setup tweaks might deter some purists. While it rivals its Mexican counterparts in quality, the American label carries a premium that may not resonate with every player. Ultimately, it's a compelling option for those who prioritize American-made guitars without breaking the bank.

positive

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