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$1001+

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Description

Experience the perfect blend of classic Fender craftsmanship and modern versatility with the Fender American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS from 1999 to 2003. Known for its distinctive HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) pickup configuration, this Stratocaster is designed to offer an expansive tonal palette that caters to various musical styles, from blues and rock to jazz and pop. Its Fender Noiseless pickups ensure a pristine sound with minimal interference, making it an excellent choice for both stage performances and studio recordings.

The American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster features a contoured alder body for comfortable playability, paired with a modern "C" shape neck that provides smooth navigation across the fretboard. The inclusion of a synchronized tremolo bridge gives players expressive control over their sound, allowing for subtle vibrato effects or dramatic dive bombs. Its 22 medium jumbo frets offer enhanced playability, making it easier to hit those intricate solos and power chords.

This guitar is not just about performance; it also embodies the enduring aesthetic of Fender's iconic design. The sleek finish and classic headstock logo reflect its heritage, while the advanced electronics and hardware cater to the demands of today's musicians. Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring guitarist, the American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS is a reliable companion in your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • HSS pickup configuration with Fender Noiseless pickups
  • Contoured alder body and modern "C" shape neck
  • Synchronized tremolo bridge
  • 22 medium jumbo frets
  • Advanced electronics catering to versatile musical styles

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS
Finish 3-Color Sunburst, Aged Cherry Burst, Black, Candy Tangerine, Chrome Red, Crimson Transparent, Natural, Purple Transparent, Teal Green Transparent, White Blonde
Year 1999 - 2003
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder, Ash
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Brown, Green, Orange, Purple, Red, Tan, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
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 HSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender American Deluxe
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS 1999 - 2003?

The Fender American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS from 1999 - 2003 features a modern C-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience suitable for a wide range of playing styles.

What type of pickups does the Fender American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS 1999 - 2003 have?

This model is equipped with Fender Noiseless single-coil pickups and a humbucker in the bridge position, offering a versatile range of tones from classic Strat sounds to heavier, more powerful tones.

Is the Fender American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS 1999 - 2003 suitable for beginners?

While it offers advanced features that professionals appreciate, its comfortable neck and versatile tone options also make it an excellent choice for beginners who are serious about learning.

Does the Fender American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS 1999 - 2003 have a tremolo system?

Yes, this guitar features a tremolo bridge, allowing for pitch modulation and expressive playing techniques.

What materials are used in the construction of the Fender American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS 1999 - 2003?

The body is made from alder or ash, with a maple neck and either a maple or rosewood fretboard, contributing to its rich tone and durability.

BLKJAKK

BLKJAKK

I bartered for a 19 year old American Deluxe Stratocaster! #FatStrat

Video thumbnail for I bartered for a 19 year old American Deluxe Stratocaster! #FatStrat by BLKJAKK

I bartered for a 19 year old American Deluxe Stratocaster! #FatStrat

BLKJAKK

BLKJAKK

Reviews

PROS

  • High-quality build with impeccable fretwork and finishing

  • Unique tangerine orange color option with a rosewood fretboard

  • Versatile sound with humbucker in the bridge position

  • S1 tone switching and blower switch for enhanced versatility

  • Compound radius neck improves playability

  • Offers a different sound choice compared to traditional Strats

  • Compatible with pickup modifications for personalized sound

CONS

  • Stock 'Noiseless' single coils considered weak by some users

  • Issues with fret buzz noted by several reviewers

  • Limited adjustability with the micro tilt feature

  • Requires setup adjustments for optimal performance

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender American Deluxe Fat Stratocaster HSS 1999 - 2003.

Features and functionality

  • The 2003 model features push-pull tone knobs, likely enabling unique pickup combinations such as neck + bridge, or all pickups at once, and a phase switch.

    Source
  • The 2005 model's noiseless pickups are often described as lifeless; replacing them with proper single coils can restore the classic Stratocaster brightness.

    Source
  • Locking tuners, a Tusq XL nut set for 10's with a wound 3rd, and an American Standard string tree can enhance tuning stability and tremolo smoothness.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest that original pickups are often replaced due to their poor quality, potentially with noiseless or alnico rod magnet pickups for improved sound.

    Source
  • The use of an Obsidian Wire harness can simplify pickup swaps and enhance sound quality by ensuring proper pot matching for single coils.

    Source
  • Fat 60s pickups, combined with 250k ohm pots, are praised for delivering authentic Stratocaster "quack" and a broad sonic range, from surf to punk.

    Source

Build quality

  • The 2003 model may have an alder body, contributing to a classic vintage tone, as opposed to the earlier poplar bodies used pre-2001.

    Source

User experience

  • A buyer reported a strong emotional connection with the guitar, emphasizing the feel and playability surpassing other models they've tried.

    Source
  • An owner noted that the Obsidian Wire harness made the guitar less noisy and improved its tonal versatility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar's tonal versatility, especially with upgraded electronics, makes it suitable for 70's funk tones and unique out-of-phase sounds.

    Source
  • Owners seeking an '80s rock/pop sound may benefit from a Fat 50s neck/middle and DiMarzio FS-1 bridge pickup combination.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
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1 star
M

Wonderful strat

Bought it used in 23 to replace my Jeff Beck Artist strat. Simply it is better. The next has a compound radius, fret work is impeccable and the S1 tone switching and blower switch makes fir a very versatile guitar. I like this better than my JB strat

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shea_patterson

shea_patterson

Gear IQ 162

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