Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (29)
$1,299.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (26)
$1,299.99
Fender
$1,299.99
Amazon
4.5 (6)
$1,299.99 New
$1,169.99 Used (Like New)
Musician's Friend
4.0 (131)
$1,299.99

Average Price: $1,300

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* 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

When you pick up the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special, you're not just holding a guitar; you're experiencing a slice of musical history with a modern twist. This solid body electric guitar is a harmonious blend of vintage vibe and contemporary playability. Whether you're channeling the spirit of classic rock 'n' roll or exploring new sonic territories, this guitar is your versatile partner in sound.

Crafted with precision, the Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special features three Tex-Mex single-coil pickups that deliver a punchy, clear tone with just the right amount of grit. The alder body resonates with warmth, while the maple neck ensures a smooth playing experience, making it perfect for everything from blistering solos to mellow chords. The medium jumbo frets and a 9.5" radius fingerboard cater to both vintage enthusiasts and modern players alike, providing comfort and ease in every note you play.

Dive into your creativity with the 6-saddle vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge, allowing you to bend notes with precision and flair. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special offers a unique blend of character and craftsmanship that resonates with every strum.

Key Features:

  • Alder body and maple neck for balanced tone and playability
  • 21 medium jumbo frets with a 9.5" radius fingerboard
  • Three Tex-Mex single-coil pickups for rich, dynamic sound
  • 6-saddle vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge
  • Classic Stratocaster styling with modern performance enhancements

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special HSS with Maple Fretboard, Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special HSS with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Black, Brown Sunburst, Candy Apple Red, Sonic Blue, Vintage White
Year 1997
Made In Mexico
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Poplar
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Tex-Mex

FAQs

What kind of pickups does the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special have?

The Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special features an HSS pickup configuration with Tex-Mex single-coil pickups and a humbucker at the bridge, offering a versatile range of tones suitable for blues, rock, and more.

Is the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and versatile sound, making it a great choice for players starting out or looking to explore different music styles.

What is the neck profile of the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special?

The Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special has a modern "C" shape neck profile, which provides a comfortable grip for most playing styles and is ideal for both beginner and intermediate guitarists.

How does the poplar body affect the sound of the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special?

The poplar body of the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special contributes to a balanced tone with a pronounced midrange, making it versatile for various music genres.

What is the difference between the maple and rosewood fretboards on the Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special?

The maple fretboard offers a brighter tone with more attack, while the rosewood fretboard provides a warmer sound with smoother highs, allowing players to choose based on their tonal preference.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special.

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend custom pickguards from Carmedon for unique designs, noting quick service and high satisfaction with the product.

    Source
  • Users often replace stock pickups with Seymour Duncan '59 bridge pickups, highlighting improved tonal quality and versatility for various playing styles.

    Source
  • Owners frequently install Seymour Duncan '59 pickups in the bridge for a balanced sound across various music styles, including rock and country.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Tex-Mex Stratocaster Special often features Red/Silver/Blue Lace Sensor pickups, providing a different tonal character compared to Clapton's Gold Sensors.

    Source
  • The Tex Mex Stratocaster Special's neck has been noted to differ from the Standard neck, offering a unique feel.

    Source
  • Some models came with SSH configurations, but users have swapped to SSS or upgraded the pickups for personalized tonal adjustments.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Tex-Mex Special's humbuckers, called "Tex Mex Humbuckers," differ from other models, offering a more American-made, vintage-inspired tone.

    Source
  • The Tex Mex series evolved into the Jimmie Vaughan Strats, indicating a shared lineage in design and tone.

    Source
  • 69 Custom Shop pickups are recommended for higher output with chime without being shrill, providing a balanced high and low end.

    Source
  • Fat 50s pickups offer a thicker, more vintage sound but are noted for their lower output compared to other options.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners discovered the presence of a humbucker route under the pickguard, suggesting potential versatility for pickup configurations.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report satisfaction with the Tex-Mex's vintage hardware, including USA-sized bridges and slotted tuners, contributing to its classic playability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Players use this guitar for diverse genres, from Hank Williams Jr. to Rage Against the Machine, highlighting its versatility.

    Source
  • Texas Specials are favored in Telecasters for their sound but can be perceived as shrill in Stratocasters.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mrdarkmartini

Outstanding

I've owned quite a few strats, there's some mojo in these Tex-Mex Specials. The neck profile is rounder than the Jimmie Vaughan that came after it and it's just a super comfortable neck and the pickups are killer!

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Fender Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides