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Description

Experience the perfect blend of classic design and modern flair with the Fender FSR American Special Stratocaster HSS. This electric guitar is crafted to satisfy both purists and innovators alike. The combination of a special ash body and a maple fingerboard with jumbo frets ensures a smooth playing experience and resonates with a distinctly American tone.

What sets this Stratocaster apart is its dynamic and versatile pickup configuration. The duo of Texas Special single-coil pickups offers that iconic Texas Blues sound, with tight bass, articulate mids, and shimmering highs. Complementing these is the high-output Atomic humbucker, delivering a powerful punch at the bridge position and expanding your sonic palette with a rich, warm tone. Whether you're playing blues, rock, or anything in between, this Stratocaster delivers sounds that demand attention.

Moreover, the Greasebucket tone circuit feature allows you to roll off highs without sacrificing low-end clarity, ensuring your notes remain crisp and defined. With vintage-style appointments like aged white plastic knobs and a '70s-style headstock, this guitar exudes a timeless charm that enhances its undeniable character.

For those seeking a guitar that combines tradition with innovation, the Fender FSR American Special Stratocaster HSS is your perfect match.

Key Features:

  • Ash body for resonant, all-American tone
  • Maple fingerboard with jumbo frets for smooth playability
  • Texas Special single-coil pickups paired with an Atomic humbucker for versatile sound
  • Greasebucket tone circuit for clarity when rolling off highs
  • Vintage-style aesthetics with aged white plastic and a '70s headstock
  • Includes Deluxe Gig Bag for protection and portability

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model FSR American Special Stratocaster Ash HSS with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Natural
Year 2012
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Ash
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Tan
Finish Style Gloss
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 HSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender American Special, Fender FSR Limited Edition
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What makes the Fender FSR American Special Stratocaster HSS unique compared to standard models?

The Fender FSR American Special Stratocaster HSS features a unique HSS pickup configuration, providing versatile tones with a humbucker for powerful sounds and single-coils for classic Strat tones. The ash body and rosewood fretboard enhance its aesthetic and tonal qualities, making it a special edition run.

Is the Fender FSR American Special Stratocaster HSS suitable for heavy rock music?

Yes, the HSS configuration, featuring a humbucker in the bridge position, makes it well-suited for heavier rock music, offering a thicker and more powerful sound compared to traditional single-coil setups.

How does the neck of the Fender FSR American Special Stratocaster HSS feel?

The neck of this Stratocaster is crafted from maple and features a bolt-on construction, providing a smooth playing experience. It offers 22 frets and a comfortable scale length of 25.5 inches, ideal for both rhythm and lead playing.

Does the Fender FSR American Special Stratocaster HSS come with a tremolo bridge?

Yes, this model is equipped with a tremolo bridge, allowing for expressive pitch modulation and vibrato effects during performances.

What type of wood is used for the body of the Fender FSR American Special Stratocaster HSS?

The body of this guitar is made from ash, which contributes to its bright and resonant sound, as well as its visually appealing natural finish.

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Fender FSR American Special Ash Stratocaster and HSS Stratocaster

Video thumbnail for Fender FSR American Special Ash Stratocaster and HSS Stratocaster by N Stuff Music

Fender FSR American Special Ash Stratocaster and HSS Stratocaster

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Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The guitar features a nitro satin finish which will show wear attractively over time, enhancing its vintage appeal.

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  • The FSR American Special models from 2014 may come with modified pickguards and knobs, often changed by previous owners.

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Features and functionality

  • The guitar includes Texas Special pickups, which some owners find provide excellent sound quality in combination with the guitar's wood and stain.

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  • The roasted maple neck on some FSR models is praised for its aesthetic beauty and smooth playability.

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  • Some 2014 models include Lace Sensor pickups, which provide a unique tonal option compared to standard pickups.

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Comparisons

  • Owners report this model outperforms top-shelf custom shops and Elites in tonal quality, making it a standout among Stratocasters.

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  • Fender Japan models, such as the Aerodyne Special, are recommended as alternatives for their superior craftsmanship at similar price points.

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Setup and maintenance

  • New owners often replace the factory strings with heavier ones, like 11s, for improved playability and tone.

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  • Proper care and maintenance can make any guitar, even budget models, last a lifetime.

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  • Owners caution that jumbo frets can cause tuning issues if chords are played with too much force.

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Value and pricing

  • The FSR models are considered underrated, offering significant value for their price, especially when purchased second-hand.

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  • The Mexican-made Strats are noted for high build standards, often using parts from the U.S. factory, offering good value at a mid-range price point.

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  • These guitars can be found under $800, offering great value for a U.S.-made Stratocaster.

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  • Some FSR models from early 2010s have appreciated in value, particularly when featuring unique specifications like P90 pickups.

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Use cases and applications

  • For a "better dirty tone," models with a humbucker in the bridge position are preferred.

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