Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $800
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS is a true testament to the enduring legacy of Fender's craftsmanship, seamlessly blending vintage charm with modern enhancements. Designed for guitarists who crave versatility and power, this Stratocaster features a specially-designed Atomic II humbucker in the bridge position, delivering a robust and fiery lead tone that perfectly complements its classic single-coil neck and middle pickups. The unique satin nitrocellulose lacquer finish not only enhances the guitar's vibrant resonance but also gives it a distinctive, understated elegance.
Crafted from solid alder, the body is both lightweight and resonant, offering a balanced tonal foundation. The one-piece maple neck, paired with a smooth rosewood fingerboard, boasts a modern "C" shape profile that ensures effortless playability, making it ideal for both intricate solos and powerful chords. The large '70s-style headstock adds a touch of retro flair while enhancing tuning stability.
With a five-way pickup selector switch, players have access to a wide array of tonal possibilities, from shimmering cleans to gritty overdrives. The vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge adds another layer of expressiveness to your playing, ensuring that this guitar isn't just another Strat—it's your ticket to a world of sonic exploration.
Key Features:
- Solid alder body with satin nitrocellulose lacquer finish
- One Atomic II humbucker (bridge) and two vintage-style single-coil pickups (neck and middle)
- One-piece maple neck with rosewood fingerboard and modern "C" shape
- 22 medium jumbo frets with dot inlays
- Five-position blade pickup selector switch
- Vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge
- Scale Length: 25.5 inches
- Chrome hardware with Fender / Ping standard cast/sealed tuners
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | Highway One Stratocaster HSS |
| Finish | 3-Color Sunburst, Daphne Blue, Flat Black, Midnight Wine Transparent |
| Year | 2006 - 2011 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | S-Style |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Tremolo Bridge |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Brown, Red |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Fender Stratocaster |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HSS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Fender Highway One |
FAQs
-
What is the pickup configuration of the Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS?
-
The Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS features an HSS pickup configuration, which includes a humbucking pickup at the bridge and two single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions. This setup provides a versatile range of tones suitable for various music styles.
-
What is the neck profile of the Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS?
-
The neck of the Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS is a modern "C" shape, offering a comfortable and familiar feel for most players. It features a satin polyurethane finish for smooth playability.
-
Does the Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS include a tremolo bridge?
-
Yes, the Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS is equipped with a vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge, allowing for expressive pitch modulation and smooth vibrato effects.
-
What is the Greasebucket™ tone circuit on the Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS?
-
The Greasebucket™ tone circuit on the Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS allows you to roll off highs without adding bass. This feature helps maintain clarity and prevents muddiness when adjusting the tone controls.
-
Is the Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS suitable for advanced players?
-
The Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS is well-suited for advanced players due to its versatile pickup configuration, quality construction, and comfortable neck profile. It provides a wide range of tones and dynamic playability, making it ideal for various musical genres.
Videos
N Stuff Music
Fender Highway One Stratocaster HSS
Reviews
PROS
-
Nitrocellulose finish gives a distinct, raw aesthetic that ages uniquely
-
Medium, slightly wider neck feels substantial yet maintains playability
-
Factory HSS configuration offers versatile sound range
-
Comfortable jumbo frets and flatter fretboard favored by fast players
-
Resonates impressively with a robust, bold sound
-
Under 8 lbs, lightweight compared to similar models
-
Alnico iii pickups provide excellent clean tones
-
Affordable USA-made Fender option
-
Ideal for SRV and Hendrix sounds
-
Durable and well-built, suitable for working musicians
CONS
-
Stock Atomic humbuckers can sound brittle and shrill
-
Some models require minor fret leveling and setup
-
Thin nitro finish shows wear easily
-
Heavier models can be uncomfortable for standing play
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS.
Mods and upgrades
User experience
-
A 2003 model with a hot rails pickup in the bridge is noted for producing excellent sound quality.
Source -
Owners report a preference for local sales through FB Marketplace or Craigslist to avoid fees and reduce risk, especially for guitars like the Highway One HSS.
Source -
A 2002 Highway One owner in Honey Blonde refused a $1,200 offer, suggesting these guitars hold significant sentimental and market value.
Source
Comparisons
-
One owner compared their customized Highway One HSS to a custom shop guitar after pickup changes, highlighting its potential for high-end performance.
Source -
The 2006-2011 models feature 70's oversized headstocks and flat line pole pickups, differentiating them from 2002-2005 models with spaghetti logos and staggered pickups.
Source
Value and pricing
-
Highway One models have seen price increases, with recent sales around $800, compared to initial prices in the $300 range in the early 2000s.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings
105
Been my primary guitar for a looong time
Great guitar, great fender tone, nice beef with humbucker.
Artist usage
Add artist
In the music video for "Hold The Door" by Armor For Sleep, PJ DeCicco is seen using a red Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS. This same guitar, appearing road-worn(?), is also featured in live performances. During the "Smile For Them" era, this instrument was one of two Stratocasters used by DeCicco, alongside an American Deluxe HSS in Montego Black.
Album Usage
The Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS has been featured on the following albums:
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 Stratocaster Highway One HSS, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Fender Solid Body Electric Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Solid Body Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
joluisGear IQ 93
-