Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster

$1,599.99 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (1)

1 wishlisted

3 saved

Page last updated May 02, 2026

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We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated May 2, 2026.

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5.0 (1)

$1,599.99 8 available Used

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Average Price: $1,600

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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The Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster is a classic reissue that captures the essence of the iconic 1971 Stratocaster, making it a must-have for guitar enthusiasts and collectors alike. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this solid body electric guitar features a three-bolt neck plate design, echoing the vintage aesthetic and playability of its era. The ST-71's body is constructed from high-quality basswood, providing a balanced tonal foundation that complements its versatile sound.

Equipped with three single-coil pickups, the ST-71 delivers a bright and articulate tone that Stratocasters are renowned for. The five-way pickup selector allows for a wide range of tonal options, from shimmering cleans to gritty blues and rock tones. Its smooth maple neck and fretboard ensure comfortable playability, while the vintage-style tremolo bridge offers dynamic expression and tuning stability.

Perfect for both stage and studio, this guitar is not just a tribute to the past but a workhorse for the modern musician. The Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster invites you to explore its rich sonic palette, making it a versatile addition to any guitarist's arsenal.

Key Features:

Solid basswood body for balanced tone
Maple neck with a comfortable profile
Three single-coil pickups for classic Strat sound
Five-way pickup selector switch
Vintage-style tremolo bridge for dynamic expression
Three-bolt neck plate for historical accuracy
Made in Japan with precise craftsmanship

Product specs

Brand	Fender
Model	ST-71 YM Yngwie Malmsteen Signature Stratocaster MIJ
Year	1997 - 2007
Made In	Japan
Categories	Solid Body Electric Guitars
Artist	Yngwie Malmsteen
Body Shape	S-Style
Body Type	Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Tremolo Bridge
Color Family	White
Fretboard Material	Maple
Model Family	Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction	Bolt-On
Neck Material	Maple
Number of Frets	21
Number of Strings	6-String
Pickup Configuration	SSS
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	25.5"
Series	Fender Artist Series, Fender Vintage MIJ / CIJ

FAQs

What makes the Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster suitable for Yngwie Malmsteen's playing style?: The Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster features a scalloped maple fretboard, which facilitates fast playing and precise bends, aligning with Yngwie Malmsteen's signature neoclassical metal style.
What type of pickups does the Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster have?: This Stratocaster has a single-coil pickup configuration (SSS), providing bright and clear tones ideal for rock, blues, and metal genres.
Is the Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster suitable for beginners?: While the ST-71 is a high-quality instrument, its scalloped fretboard may require some adaptation, making it more suitable for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate its unique features.
How does the tremolo bridge on the Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster affect playability?: The tremolo bridge allows for pitch modulation effects, offering expressive playing options, which is particularly beneficial for genres requiring dynamic lead techniques.
What are the tonal characteristics of the Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster?: The ST-71 delivers bright, articulate tones with a strong midrange presence, making it versatile for various music styles, especially those requiring clarity and precision.

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Japan ST-71 Stratocaster.

Build quality

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The ST-71 Stratocaster lacks an 'X' in the model number, indicating it was manufactured for sale in Japan rather than for export.
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The ST-71 model may have inconsistencies in neck markings; some feature a "Made in USA" label, which may indicate non-standard assembly or replacement parts.
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It's noted that the absence of a skunk stripe is rare on maple necks, suggesting a unique two-piece neck construction with a maple cap.
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Features and functionality

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This model features Fullerton pickups with flat magnets, available in red, grey, and black, with red and grey being highly sought after.
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Mods and upgrades

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Some owners replace stock pickups with CS69s for a warmer tone, as the original pickups can be shrill, especially in the bridge position.
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Some owners replace stock ceramic pickups, similar to old Squires, with higher-quality options due to their subpar sound quality.
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User experience

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Owners note a slightly unconventional U-shaped neck which many find comfortable for extended playing sessions.
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Owners with experience in both vintage and MIJ Strats often prefer the more consistent quality control found in MIJ models from the FujiGen factory.
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Value and pricing

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At $685 USD, this Japanese-made guitar is considered a fantastic deal, especially given the limited market in certain regions.
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Comparisons

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Owners have drawn parallels between the electronics and hardware of this model and those found in mid-90s Mexican Strats, suggesting some shared components.
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The 1983 MIJ Squier SQ series Strats are highlighted as superior to later ST-72s, with build quality comparable to the JV series and increasing in price.
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The CBS-era Strats are noted for their inconsistent quality, with some models requiring expert setup to correct machining flaws and intonation issues.
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Setup and maintenance

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Differences in bridge components, such as saddle height screws being hex head versus slotted, can indicate potential mismatches in replacement parts.
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