Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$879.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (8)
$879.99
Amazon
4.1 (7)
$879.99
Reverb
4.0 (8)
$829.99 New
$575.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$879.99
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$879.99
Thomann
4.9 (8)
$798.00 $789.00 $9.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£707.05

Average Price: $830

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar is where classic Fender craftsmanship meets modern versatility, offering a rich palette of tones to suit any musical genre. This guitar is a testament to Fender's legacy, featuring an HSS pickup configuration that combines the traditional Stratocaster single-coil clarity with the powerful punch of a humbucker at the bridge. Whether you're crafting shimmering clean tones or pushing the limits with overdriven leads, the Player II Strat is ready to adapt.

Built with an alder body and a maple neck, this instrument ensures a balanced resonance across lows, mids, and highs, making it ideal for both recording and live performances. Its modern "C" neck profile and 9.5" radius rosewood fingerboard with rolled edges offer unparalleled playability, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across 22 medium-jumbo frets.

With a 5-way pickup switch, you can easily navigate through a versatile array of tones, while the upgraded 2-point synchronized tremolo bridge provides stability for expressive bends and vibrato. The addition of Fender's ClassicGear tuning machines ensures that your tuning remains rock-solid even during the most dynamic performances.

Key Features:

  • Contoured alder body with a modern "C" maple neck
  • Rosewood fingerboard with 9.5" radius and rolled edges for enhanced playability
  • Player Series Alnico II humbucker at the bridge and Alnico V single-coil pickups at the neck and middle
  • 5-way pickup selector for a wide range of tonal possibilities
  • 22 medium-jumbo frets and a 25.5" scale length
  • 2-point synchronized tremolo with bent steel saddles
  • Fender ClassicGear tuning machines and a synthetic bone nut for stable tuning
  • Master volume and dual tone controls for sound customization
  • 3-ply parchment pickguard and nickel/chrome hardware

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape Player II Stratocaster HSS
Body Material Alder
Body Finish Gloss Polyester
Neck Material Maple
Neck Shape Modern C
Neck Joint Bolt-on
Radius 9.5"
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 22
Scale Length 25.5"
Nut Width 1.650"
Nut Material Synthetic Bone
Bridge/Tailpiece 2-Point Synchronized Tremolo with Bent Steel Saddles
Tuners Fender ClassicGear
Neck Pickup Fender Player Series Alnico V Strat Single-coil
Middle Pickup Fender Player Series Alnico V Strat Single-coil
Bridge Pickup Fender Player Series Alnico II Humbucker
Controls 1 x volume, 2 x tone
Switching 5-way blade pickup switch
Strings Fender 250L, .009-.042
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS?

The Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS features a Modern C neck profile, which provides a comfortable grip suitable for a wide range of playing styles and is especially accommodating for fast playing and smooth chord transitions.

What kind of tones can I achieve with the HSS pickup configuration on this guitar?

The HSS configuration on the Fender Player II Stratocaster combines a humbucker in the bridge position with single-coil pickups in the middle and neck, offering versatile tonal options from powerful rock and blues to crisp, clean tones.

Is the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile, versatile tonal options, and reliable build quality, making it an excellent choice for learning and developing various playing techniques.

What materials are used in the body and neck of the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS?

The body of the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS is made of alder with a gloss polyester finish, while the neck is crafted from maple, providing a balanced tone with a smooth playing experience.

Does the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS come with a case or gig bag?

No, the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS does not come with a case or gig bag; these must be purchased separately to protect the guitar during transport and storage.

What is the scale length of the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS?

The Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS features a scale length of 25.5 inches, which is standard for Stratocaster models and contributes to its bright tone and playability.

Fender

Fender

Exploring the Player II Stratocaster Models | Player II | Fender

Video thumbnail for Exploring the Player II Stratocaster Models | Player II | Fender by Fender

Exploring the Player II Stratocaster Models | Player II | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS FULL DEMO by Play and Trade Guitars

Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS FULL DEMO

Play and Trade Guitars

Play and Trade Guitars

Video thumbnail for รีวิว Fender Limited Edition Player Stratocaster HSS Plus Top - Blue Burst | iGuitar Review by iGuitar Music

รีวิว Fender Limited Edition Player Stratocaster HSS Plus Top - Blue Burst | iGuitar Review

iGuitar Music

iGuitar Music

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Week 13: The Return of ROSEWOOD!  The NEW Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS by Steve from Boston

Guitar of the Week 13: The Return of ROSEWOOD! The NEW Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS

Steve from Boston

Steve from Boston

Video thumbnail for FENDER: Player II Stratocaster® HSS - Aquatone Blue + Tone Master Pro by Brett Kingman

FENDER: Player II Stratocaster® HSS - Aquatone Blue + Tone Master Pro

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional playability and tone, surpasses other models in its price range

  • Beautiful clean tones with classic Strat chime and rich distorted sounds

  • Versatile HSS pickup configuration offers varied sound options

  • Slim neck and rosewood fretboard enhance playability, especially for small hands

  • Solid construction with well-finished details and stable tuning

  • Vivid color options, like coral red, add visual appeal

  • Balanced humbucker, not too bright or dark, complements single coils

  • Two-point tremolo system offers sensitive response for nuanced playing

  • Impressive for diverse music styles; easily shifts from blues to metal tones

CONS

  • Inconsistent attention to detail; some guitars may have minor flaws

  • May require investment in neck setup and fret work for optimal playability

  • Heavier and denser body compared to other models like Ibanez

  • Occasional quality control issues, such as glue stains near the nut

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar.

Mods and upgrades

  • Upgrading to locking tuners and replacing the nut has significantly improved tuning stability and playability for some users.

    Source
  • Owners considering pickup changes often mention replacing the bridge humbucker due to volume jumps when switching from single coils, especially at low gain.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Australian market's pricing differences are noted, with new models being more expensive than U.S. equivalents, affecting perceived value.

    Source
  • The price of $1000 AUD is considered reasonable, especially given the rarity of specific color and fretboard combinations like yellow with ebony.

    Source
  • The Fender Player Stratocaster HSS is often found on sale, offering good value compared to American models, but be cautious of pricing tactics labeled as "sales."

    Source

User experience

  • Owners emphasize the importance of rolled fret edges for comfort, suggesting these are noticeable improvements in Player II models.

    Source
  • The Player II Strat's floating tremolo is highly sensitive, impacting tuning with slight hand pressure, requiring careful setup for stable performance.

    Source
  • Pau Ferro fretboards can appear lighter initially but will darken over time with exposure to oils and regular use, which may affect aesthetic preferences.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The modular nature of Strats is highlighted as a benefit, making them easily customizable compared to more fixed designs like PRS or Gibson.

    Source
  • Some players compare Player II necks to American Professional II necks, noting a less impressive feel despite similar specs.

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Features and functionality

  • The thick poly finish on certain color models, like bright yellow, is noted for its rarity and potential appeal to specific aesthetic preferences.

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  • Position 3 on the pickup selector is highlighted as an undervalued position, providing unique tonal qualities not often utilized by players.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users mention the ebony fretboard as a unique feature, preferred over rosewood for its aesthetic and tactile benefits.

    Source
  • Some owners report issues with fret sprout and the nut quality, suggesting that attention to these areas might be needed for optimal playability.

    Source
  • Some owners report the rosewood fretboards on Player II models appear dry and unfinished, affecting playability and aesthetic.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Player II Strat's rosewood neck offers a smoother feel compared to the Pau Ferro on Player I models, enhancing playability for some musicians.

    Source
  • The HSS configuration is noted for its versatility across genres, but some users feel it compromises the classic Strat sound in bridge position.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A high nut height on some Player II Strats has been noted, requiring more effort than a typical setup to address effectively.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS review: the only Strat you’ll ever need?

guitar.com

Fender's Player II Stratocaster HSS refines an already strong contender in the affordable guitar market, boasting rolled fingerboard edges and a rosewood neck that enhance playability. It’s visually appealing with vintage vibes and solid craftsmanship, making it a joy to play. However, the omission of a gigbag feels like a missed opportunity, especially when competing brands offer better protection for similar prices. While the guitar's weight might deter those seeking a lighter option, its versatile sound and improved features make it a worthy investment. Overall, it’s an impressive iteration that solidifies its place in the hearts of budget-conscious guitarists.

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