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Average Price: $789

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Experience the blend of vintage style and modern innovation with the Fender Contemporary Stratocaster, crafted in Japan. This solid body electric guitar is a nod to the classic Strat design but with a contemporary twist that appeals to both traditionalists and modern players. Known for its versatile sound, the Contemporary Stratocaster features a sleek profile and a comfortable neck that makes it a joy to play whether you're on stage or in the studio.

A standout feature of this instrument is its dual humbucking pickups that deliver a rich, full-bodied tone perfect for a variety of musical genres. Whether you're diving into rock, blues, or jazz, these pickups provide the power and clarity you need. The Stratocaster's traditional synchronized tremolo bridge allows for smooth pitch variations, giving you the freedom to explore your musical creativity. With a five-way pickup selector, players can easily switch between tones, ensuring versatility and adaptability in any musical setting.

This instrument is built with a high-quality alder body, complemented by a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard, providing a balanced tonal range and excellent sustain. The Fender Contemporary Stratocaster is a reliable companion for musicians who seek both classic appeal and modern functionality.

Key Features:

  • Solid alder body for robust sound and sustain
  • Maple neck with rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Dual humbucking pickups for versatile and powerful tones
  • Traditional synchronized tremolo bridge for pitch control
  • Five-way pickup selector for tonal versatility
  • Made in Japan for exceptional craftsmanship and quality

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Fender Contemporary Series Stratocaster SSS
Finish Black, Burgundy Mist, Frost White, Pewter
Year 1985 - 1987
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Red, Silver, White
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Contemporary
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan)?

The Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan) features a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, which is ideal for a wide range of playing styles and offers a smooth playing experience for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What kind of tones can I expect from the SSS pickup configuration on this Stratocaster?

The SSS pickup configuration provides a classic Stratocaster tone with bright, clear highs and a well-defined midrange, making it suitable for genres like rock, blues, and pop.

Is the Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan) suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan) is well-suited for advanced players, offering high-quality craftsmanship, a locking tremolo bridge for stable tuning, and versatile tonal options.

Does the locking tremolo bridge on this guitar affect tuning stability?

The locking tremolo bridge enhances tuning stability, allowing for expressive pitch modulation without the common tuning issues associated with standard tremolo systems.

How does the build quality of the Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan) compare to other models?

Fender Japan guitars are renowned for their exceptional build quality, featuring precise craftsmanship and attention to detail, often rivaling or exceeding that of other models in the same price range.

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Lawman Guitars

1985 Fender Contemporary Japan Strat System III Trem

Video thumbnail for 1985 Fender Contemporary Japan Strat System III Trem by Lawman Guitars

1985 Fender Contemporary Japan Strat System III Trem

Lawman Guitars

Lawman Guitars

Video thumbnail for My 1985 Fender Contemporary Stratocaster Japan by Jon is just TOO LouD!!

My 1985 Fender Contemporary Stratocaster Japan

Jon is just TOO LouD!!

Jon is just TOO LouD!!

Video thumbnail for 80s Fender Contemporary Stratocaster Review by Dex Deimos

80s Fender Contemporary Stratocaster Review

Dex Deimos

Dex Deimos

Video thumbnail for Fender Contemporary Stratocaster 1985 MIJ Japan by Conny Conrad

Fender Contemporary Stratocaster 1985 MIJ Japan

Conny Conrad

Conny Conrad

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan).

Features and functionality

  • The Contemporary Stratocaster is known for its thin neck, reportedly thinner than a '92 USA Jackson, with a 12" radius favored by many players.

    Source
  • The TBX tone control is highly appreciated, with owners questioning why it isn't standard on more models due to its versatility in shaping tone.

    Source
  • The System 1 bridge, designed by Schaller, offers stability with roller saddles and a friction-held tremolo arm, allowing for smooth tremolo use without tuning issues.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The System 1 tremolo on some models is noted for its difficulty in replacement, while others feature a Kahler tremolo.

    Source
  • A brass nut replaced the original locking nut, which users have found to enhance tuning stability when the tremolo is converted to a hardtail.

    Source
  • Owners suggest using Wilkinson tremolos as a replacement option for the System 1 bridge, which can be hard to find parts for.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the Strat neck as their favorite, indicating a preference for its feel compared to other models.

    Source
  • One owner experienced broken micro tuners in the 90s, highlighting the importance of maintaining and potentially upgrading with more readily available options today.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Restringing is noted as challenging due to the unconventional setup of the System 2/3 tremolo bridges.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some models from this era feature a unique black headstock, which adds to their visual appeal.

    Source
  • The neck of the MIJ Strat is highly praised for its exceptional feel, reportedly surpassing many American models in comfort and playability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The stock pickups excel in 80s rock tones and adapt well to modern rock and metal styles with increased amp gain.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The neck profile is described as a comfortable D shape, providing a shreddy feel without being excessively thin.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • These guitars, especially in good condition, are valued between $800 and $2,500, making a $500 purchase a significant bargain.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
aaron_m_black

Great Strat

Mine is the final run of "Contemporary" Strats out of Japan in the mid-80s. It's just a 57 reissue that they put the Contemporary bridge on. I replaced the PUPs with the EMG DG20 set and it's a beast of an 80s Strat for playing thick, Floydian lines.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Justin Broadrick uses Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan)

Justin Broadrick

Singer, Guitarist

Isis

...
Verified via Photo

"I use a custom made Japanese Fender Stratocaster with a rare locked tuning set up, which is great for downtuning."

See how João Cabeleira uses Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan)

João Cabeleira

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

This was one of his most used guitars from 1987 to 1989. There's a lot of footage from that time where he can be seen with this rare model. With a HSS pickup combination and a coil split switch.

It is unclear which production model it is due to it's unique specs like having a kahler tremolo which was uncommon. Most of them sported a fender Schaller system.

In the video provided we can see one of the last times this guitar was on stage during the performance of "O que foi não volta a ser".

See how Friðrik Karlsson uses Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan)

Friðrik Karlsson

Guitarist, Music Producer

Mezzoforte

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video (minute 13:28) Fridrik use a Fender Contemporary Strat.

R

Richard Holgarth

Guitarist

Eddie & The Hot Rods

...
Verified via Photo

Heavily modified 80’s Contemporary Stratocaster Seymour Duncan quarter pound bridge. SD Hot Single in middle. SD HotRail neck.

See how Yakov Tsvirkunov uses Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan)

Yakov Tsvirkunov

Guitarist, Composer

Король и Шут

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video of the 1999 Король и Шут concert, Yakov plays a 1986 Fender MIJ Japan Contemporary Stratocaster Black

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fender Contemporary Stratocaster (Japan), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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