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Average Price: $1,193

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step into the world of vintage charm with the Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ, a guitar that bridges the gap between iconic American craftsmanship and meticulous Japanese attention to detail. Originally crafted between 1982 and 2015, this reissue captures the essence of Fender’s golden era, offering musicians a taste of its storied past with a twist of modern precision. Each guitar in this series stands as a testament to Fender Japan's commitment to quality, echoing the design and specifications of its American predecessors.

What sets the ST-65 apart is its exquisite sound clarity, achieved through a combination of high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship. The vintage-style pickups deliver that unmistakable Fender tone, perfect for genres ranging from blues to rock. The guitar's smooth maple neck and vintage-style tuners enhance playability, making it a dream for musicians who crave both nostalgia and performance.

Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ is your ticket to a timeless sound. Its classic design, paired with modern reliability, ensures that this guitar isn't just a piece of history—it's a versatile tool for today's musician.

Key Features:

  • Vintage-style pickups for authentic Fender tone
  • Smooth maple neck for enhanced playability
  • Original 1982-2015 Fender Japan serial number placement
  • Classic solid body construction for durability and sound quality
  • Vintage-style tuners for precise tuning stability

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Vintage MIJ / CIJ

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ?

The Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ features a comfortable vintage-style neck profile, typical of early Stratocasters, providing a smooth playing experience suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ?

This guitar is equipped with vintage-style single-coil pickups that deliver classic Stratocaster tones, characterized by bright, clear highs and a bell-like chime, making it versatile for genres like rock, blues, and funk.

Is the Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ suitable for beginners?

While the Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ is a high-quality instrument that can appeal to players of all levels, its vintage specifications might be better appreciated by intermediate to advanced players familiar with classic Stratocaster features.

How does the rosewood fretboard affect the sound of the Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ?

The rosewood fretboard contributes to a warmer, more rounded tone, complementing the bright sound of the single-coil pickups, and providing a smooth playing surface.

What is the significance of the "Made in Japan" label on the Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ?

The "Made in Japan" label indicates high craftsmanship, as Fender Japan guitars are renowned for their quality and attention to detail, often being sought after by collectors and players for their superior build and vintage appeal.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender ST-65 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ.

Value and pricing

  • The 1980s MIJ Strats like ST62-55 were once sold for $50-75, indicating significant inflation in their current market value.

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  • The rising prices of MIJ Fenders are noted, yet they are still considered a worthwhile investment, often compared favorably to more expensive American models.

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User experience

  • Some find the 7.25" radius fretboards on MIJ models preferable, offering more variety than American counterparts.

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  • A Fujigen '62 reissue is noted to be superior to late '80s USA '62 reissues, praised for its build and tonal quality.

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Comparisons

  • MIJ Strat necks, particularly those with tinted maple, are often favored over American models for their feel and aesthetic.

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  • The ST62-85 features an alder body, alnico pickups, and a nitro finish, aligning it closer to USA-made models in quality.

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  • MIJ Strats, particularly the CIJ '67 reissue, are often praised for their finish and tone, reportedly superior to MIM models.

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Mods and upgrades

  • For players desiring a custom shop feel, rewiring and installing high-end pickups in MIJ Fenders is recommended, with potential for near-custom-shop quality at a lower cost.

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  • Users recommend upgrading stock pickups with Seymour Duncan Invaders for improved sound quality on MIJ Strats.

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  • Texas Specials are praised for enhancing the sound quality of MIJ Stratocasters.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report that the vintage reissue models feature tiny vintage frets, requiring precise setup for optimal playability.

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  • Owners advise checking for wear and potential need for refret due to heavy use, given their popularity among players.

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  • It’s noted that MIJ Strats may require setup adjustments upon arrival, such as pickup swapping and bridge alignment for optimal performance.

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Build quality

  • Owners highlight the exceptional neck craftsmanship, noting the use of traditional fret tang cutting for a bound feel, which many American models lack.

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  • The ST62-55 model uses a basswood body, ceramic pickups, and pot metal hardware, indicative of its entry-level status.

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  • Some MIJ Strats, particularly older models, have softer lacquer finishes that may ding more easily, adding to their vintage appearance.

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Features and functionality

  • MIJ Strats from the 1980s often feature oversized headstocks, reflecting the CBS era design choices.

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