Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (24)
$1,219.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (10)
$1,219.99
Amazon
4.3 (25)
$1,519.99
Reverb
5.0 (19)
$1,332.72 New
$899.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (6)
$1,219.99
Thomann
5.0 (6)
$1,525.00
Gear4Music
£1,299.00

Average Price: $1,277

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS is a modern take on an iconic instrument that delivers a sound and feel that's authentically Fender. This US-made guitar features a duo of Yosemite single-coil pickups and a DoubleTap humbucking bridge pickup, offering a vast array of tones. Whether you're after the classic Strat sparkle or a sizzling solo, this guitar delivers.

The DoubleTap humbucker gives you the option to split the pickup with a push-pull tone knob, offering an extended range of single-coil tones. The guitar also features the Greasebucket master tone circuit, which rolls off highs without reducing gain, keeping your tone clear and balanced.

The Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS is not just about innovative electronics. Its classic contoured alder body and comfortable maple neck make it a joy to play. Available in a classic black finish or a subdued satin surf green, this guitar looks as good as it sounds.

Key Features:

  • Yosemite single-coil pickups with flat-staggered pole pieces to increase output
  • DoubleTap humbucking bridge pickup with push-pull tone knob for extended range of single-coil tones
  • Greasebucket master tone circuit rolls off highs without reducing gain
  • Classic contoured alder body and comfortable maple neck
  • Available in classic black finish or subdued satin surf green
  • Modern "C" profile maple neck with 22 jumbo frets
  • 6-screw vintage-style Synchronized Tremolo bridge
  • Quality crafted in America

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape Stratocaster
Body Material Alder
Body Finish Gloss Polyurethane
Neck Material Maple
Neck Shape Modern C
Neck Joint Bolt-on
Radius 9.5"
Fingerboard Inlay Black Dots
Number of Frets 22, Jumbo
Scale Length 25.5"
Nut Width 1.685"
Nut Material Synthetic
Bridge/Tailpiece 6-saddle Vintage-style Synchronized Tremolo
Tuners Fender Classic Gear
Neck Pickup Yosemite Strat Single-coil
Middle Pickup Yosemite Strat Single-coil
Bridge Pickup Performer DoubleTap Humbucker
Controls 1 x master volume, 1 x tone (neck/middle push/pull coil-split), 1 x tone (bridge)
Switching 5-way blade pickup switch
Strings Fender USA, .009-.042
Case/Gig Bag Gig Bag

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS?

The Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS features a Modern C neck profile, which offers a comfortable and familiar feel, suitable for a variety of playing styles.

What type of pickups does the Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS have?

This guitar is equipped with Yosemite single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions, and a Performer DoubleTap humbucker in the bridge, providing versatile tonal options.

Is the Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS is suitable for beginners, offering easy playability and a versatile range of tones that can accommodate various musical styles.

How does the coil-split feature work on the Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS?

The coil-split feature on the Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS is activated by a push/pull tone control, allowing the bridge humbucker to switch to a single-coil mode for additional tonal versatility.

What kind of music genres is the Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS best suited for?

The Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS is versatile and well-suited for genres like rock, blues, and pop, thanks to its combination of single-coil and humbucking pickups.

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Fender American Performer Series Stratocaster HSS | Demo and Overview with Nicholas Veinoglou

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer Series Stratocaster HSS | Demo and Overview with Nicholas Veinoglou by Guitar Center

Fender American Performer Series Stratocaster HSS | Demo and Overview with Nicholas Veinoglou

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for TONE CHECK: Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS Demo NO TALKING by Cream City Music

TONE CHECK: Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS Demo NO TALKING

Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS MN, Black | Gear4music by Gear4music Guitars

Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS MN, Black | Gear4music

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS by N Stuff Music

Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS | Demo, Tones & Overview by GUITARGUITAR

Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS | Demo, Tones & Overview

GUITARGUITAR

GUITARGUITAR

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer | Comparing the Stratocaster HSS & SSS by MooreMusicGuitars

Fender American Performer | Comparing the Stratocaster HSS & SSS

MooreMusicGuitars

MooreMusicGuitars

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer Series Stratocaster HSS MN Satin - Sound Demo (no talking) by Guitar Bonedo

Fender American Performer Series Stratocaster HSS MN Satin - Sound Demo (no talking)

Guitar Bonedo

Guitar Bonedo

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer Stratocaster 2019 by accordoTV

Fender American Performer Stratocaster 2019

accordoTV

accordoTV

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer | Stratocaster HSS | Review & Demo by Jack P

Fender American Performer | Stratocaster HSS | Review & Demo

Jack P

Jack P

Video thumbnail for DG | Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS by Detroit Guitar

DG | Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS

Detroit Guitar

Detroit Guitar

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS Review by Empire Music

Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS Review

Empire Music

Empire Music

Video thumbnail for Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS MN SFG | Guitar Center PL by TVGuitarCenter

Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS MN SFG | Guitar Center PL

TVGuitarCenter

TVGuitarCenter

Video thumbnail for Demo of Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS in Black by O.J. Van Malmsteen

Demo of Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS in Black

O.J. Van Malmsteen

O.J. Van Malmsteen

Video thumbnail for TEST Fender Stratocaster American Performer HSS ITALIE MUSIQUE by Paul Iron

TEST Fender Stratocaster American Performer HSS ITALIE MUSIQUE

Paul Iron

Paul Iron

Video thumbnail for American Performer - Fender Stratocaster HSS - Demo/Soundcheck by Jack P

American Performer - Fender Stratocaster HSS - Demo/Soundcheck

Jack P

Jack P

Reviews

PROS

  • The Doubletap humbucker offers powerful output with clear, distortion-free notes

  • Versatile tonal range from clean to blues, rock, and some metal

  • Smooth, fast neck with jumbo frets enhances playability

  • High-quality build with no fret buzz or dead notes

  • Offers classic Strat tones with additional tonal options from humbucker

  • Tremolo system performs well, maintaining tuning with moderate use

  • Distinctive satin finish available in unique Surf Green color

  • Comfortable rolled neck with a luxurious feel

  • Made in the USA, ensuring superior craftsmanship

  • Ready to play out of the box with excellent setup

CONS

  • Issues with tuning stability, especially when using tremolo

  • Some reports of metal shavings or debris within the finish

  • Frets may develop divots over time

  • Stock tuners may need upgrading for better tuning stability

  • Push/pull tone control knob can have fitment issues

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The Player Series offers a two-point tremolo, whereas the Performer uses a classic 6-screw tremolo, impacting stability and feel.

    Source
  • The Player Series is often compared to the American Standards, sharing similar parts like fret wires, tuners, and pickguards, with primary differences being country of manufacture.

    Source
  • The Player Plus HSS features rolled fretboard edges and a flatter radius, which some players find more comfortable compared to the Performer's traditional design.

    Source
  • The Performer model is seen as a sweet spot in the Fender range due to features like Yosemite pickups and Greasebucket pots, combining quality with affordability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Performer has a Greasebucket tone circuit, which maintains tone when the volume is lowered, suitable for distortion and overdrive but less so for classic Strat tones.

    Source
  • The Performer HSS allows humbucker splitting, providing versatility, but some find the sound shrill when split, especially compared to the full humbucker tone.

    Source
  • The Player Plus requires pulling the knob to split the humbucker, which some find cumbersome compared to simpler mechanisms.

    Source
  • Jumbo frets are a defining characteristic of the Performer model, offering a distinct feel that may not suit all players.

    Source

User experience

  • The transition from an Epiphone to a Fender Stratocaster reveals a noticeably lighter and more comfortable playing experience, especially for long sessions.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the Performer's ability to hold value better due to its USA-made status, making it a solid investment choice.

    Source
  • Some users find the split humbucker feature on the Performer handy for on-the-fly tone changes during performances, praising its ease of use.

    Source
  • Owners describe the neck as smooth and comfortable, which enhances playability, though jumbo frets may take getting used to for some players.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • For those wanting a USA-made guitar without a high budget, the Performer is a preferred choice, offering quality at a more accessible price point than higher-tier American models.

    Source
  • A near-mint condition American Performer at €850 is considered a good deal by multiple owners, especially compared to higher-tier models.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Fender American Performer Stratocaster features a giant 70s headstock, which some players find adds a unique aesthetic appeal.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Fender's American Performer Stratocaster HSS and Telecaster deliver iconic sounds and incredible attention to detail | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Fender’s American Performer Stratocaster HSS delivers a blend of classic tones and modern playability, showcasing upgraded Yosemite pickups that offer a fuller sound than many competitors. The attention to detail, from the smooth neck to the solid construction, sets a high standard for guitars in this price range. However, purists may miss some vintage styling, and the price, while competitive, still raises questions about value compared to higher-end models. Overall, this Stratocaster is a strong contender for gigging musicians seeking both style and substance.

positive

Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS stands out for its price and substantial upgrades from previous models, making it a compelling choice for guitarists. With features like ClassicGear tuners and unique Yosemite pickups, it offers a fresh take on a classic design. However, the limited color options and an average gig bag detract slightly from its appeal. The balance between the humbucker and single-coil sounds requires careful adjustment to avoid tonal inconsistencies. Overall, while it may not be the revolutionary Strat some hoped for, it proves to be a worthy addition to any player's arsenal.

positive
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings

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boogienorman

Great Tones!

This thing is a SLEDGEHAMMER! It's great for a Hendrix, SRV, Trower kind of sound.

I

Versitile and Timeless

I can play all styles on this axe. Really suprised how versitile it is.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Keep the bridge pickup in Humbucker mode if you want a heavier tone but then split it for that classic Strat Sound.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andrew Bailey uses Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS

Andrew Bailey

Guitarist

DIIV

...
Verified via YouTube

Andrew is using this guitar throughout the entire video.

See how bearface uses Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS

bearface

Singer, Guitarist

Brockhampton

...
Verified via YouTube

Ciaran McDonald aka 'bearface' often uses this guitar on stage while performing 'SUMMER' but also other songs.

See how Bobby Tench uses Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS

Bobby Tench

Guitarist

Humble Pie

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: Satin Surf Green

Bobby Tench is known to have used a Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS, as evidenced by a photograph showing the guitar with a humbucker in the bridge position.

See how Christoph Hochheim uses Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS

Christoph Hochheim

Guitarist

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart

...
Verified via Photo

Christoph Hochheim can be seen playing a Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS MN BLK in a photo posted on The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart's official Instagram account. The image, credited to Em Grey, was shared with the caption "#brooklynvegan #thepainsofbeingpureatheart #octfest."

See how Chris Brooks uses Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS

Chris Brooks

Guitarist

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post, Chris Brooks is shown using a Fender American Performer Stratocaster, as he mentions, "Enjoy this jam on a loaner @fender USA Performer HSS Strat."

See how Leonardo de Lozanne uses Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS

Leonardo de Lozanne

Singer, Guitarist

Fobia

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: Black

Leonardo de Lozanne uses a Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS with his band Los Concorde, as evidenced by a photo credited to "Al Diálogo".

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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kiripunk

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