Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

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.

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Fender Highway One Stratocaster HSS

Video thumbnail for Fender Highway One Stratocaster HSS by N Stuff Music

Fender Highway One Stratocaster HSS

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Video thumbnail for 2006 Fender USA "Highway One HSS" Stratocaster  60th Anniversary Edition by GregsGuitars

2006 Fender USA "Highway One HSS" Stratocaster 60th Anniversary Edition

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

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

  • Owners recommend replacing stock tuners with bean-style tuners for a vintage look that complements the CBS headstock.

    Source
  • One owner swapped the pickguard for a black three-ply, enhancing the guitar's aesthetic appeal and vintage flair.

    Source

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

Use cases and applications

  • Some owners believe that the Highway One series is among Fender's best, indicating high playability and satisfaction, making them reluctant to sell.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
david_vint

Been my primary guitar for a looong time

Great guitar, great fender tone, nice beef with humbucker.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how PJ DeCicco uses Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS

PJ DeCicco

Guitarist

Armor for Sleep

...
Verified via YouTube

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.

See how Domenico Finizio uses Fender Stratocaster Highway One HSS

Domenico Finizio

Guitarist, Composer

Tropea

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video taken from a studio live session Domenico Finizio is playing his Fender Stratocaster Hihghway One HSS Nitro Red

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.

PRS SE Mark Holcomb
PRS SE Mark Holcomb Solid Body Electric Guitars
2
Harley Benton PowerPlant ISO-1 Pro
Harley Benton PowerPlant ISO-1 Pro Effects Pedal Accessories
1
MXR M169 Carbon Copy
MXR M169 Carbon Copy Delay Effects Pedals
1
Walrus Audio Monument V2
Walrus Audio Monument V2 Tremolo Effects Pedals
1
Electro-Harmonix Oceans 11
Electro-Harmonix Oceans 11 Reverb Effects Pedals
1
Ibanez Chorus Mini
Ibanez Chorus Mini Chorus Effects Pedals
1
Altoids
Altoids Picks & Pick Holders
1

Community setups

Show yours
marek_s

marek_s

Gear IQ 451

marek_s

marek_s

Gear IQ 451

marek_s

marek_s

Gear IQ 451

marek_s

marek_s

Gear IQ 451

andy_bejnariu

andy_bejnariu

Gear IQ 187

andy_bejnariu

andy_bejnariu

Gear IQ 187

daniel_mueller

daniel_mueller

Gear IQ 566

boogienorman

boogienorman

Gear IQ 116

More Fender Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    joluis
    joluis

    Gear IQ 93