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Average Price: $1,750

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Fender Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster is a dream come true for any guitarist looking to blend nostalgic charm with cutting-edge performance. This solid body electric guitar pays homage to the classic '60s Stratocaster design while injecting a dose of modern flair that will resonate with contemporary players. The S-1 switching system unlocks a surprising range of tonal possibilities, allowing you to seamlessly switch from smooth, fluid rhythms to bright, biting leads with ease.

Designed with versatility in mind, this Stratocaster features three meticulously chosen single-coil pickups: an American Vintage '59 at the neck, a '65 in the middle, and a '56 at the bridge. Together, they offer a dynamic and expressive sound palette that caters to a wide array of musical styles. The compound-radius fretboard enhances playability, transitioning from a rounder profile at the nut for comfortable rhythm work to a flatter radius higher up, ideal for effortless solos and string bends.

Whether you're rocking out on stage or jamming in the studio, the Fender Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster is engineered to perform with precision and flair. With locking tuners and strap buttons, this guitar is built to withstand the rigors of live performances, ensuring you stay in tune and in style.

Key Features:

  • Three single-coil pickups: American Vintage '59 (neck), '65 (middle), and '56 (bridge)
  • S-1 switching system for expanded tonal options
  • Compound-radius fretboard (7.25"-12") for enhanced playability
  • Mid-'60s "C"-shape neck profile
  • Locking tuners and strap buttons for secure performance
  • Hard case included for protection and transport

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster
Finish 3-Color Sunburst, Olympic White
Year 2014
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Brown, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 9.5"
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.65"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster?

The Fender Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster features a "C" shaped neck profile, offering a comfortable grip suitable for a wide range of playing styles and techniques.

What type of pickups does the Fender Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster have?

This Stratocaster is equipped with three single-coil pickups in an SSS configuration, providing a classic, bright, and versatile tone ideal for genres like rock, blues, and jazz.

Is the Fender Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster suitable for beginners?

While this guitar is designed with advanced features appealing to experienced players, its comfortable neck and versatile sound also make it a good choice for dedicated beginners.

What kind of tremolo bridge does the Fender Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster use?

The guitar features a vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge, allowing for smooth vibrato effects while maintaining tuning stability.

How does the rosewood fretboard affect the sound of the Fender Vintage Hot Rod '60s Stratocaster?

The rosewood fretboard contributes to a warm, rich tone with smooth sustain, complementing the bright sound of the single-coil pickups.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Vintage Hot Rod 60's Stratocaster.

Features and functionality

  • The neck of the Vintage Hot Rod 62 Strat is a thick C shape, appreciated for its comfort, especially for those who prefer beefier necks.

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  • The pickups are identified as vintage 57s, not the often-believed 57/62 set, with low output that performs well with clean tones and light overdrive.

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  • The compound radius neck is described as larger than those on SRV, JM, and EJ Strats, offering a unique feel for players who prefer substantial necks.

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  • The Olympic White finish tends to yellow significantly over time, transitioning to a yellowish cream color, unlike some newer models.

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User experience

  • Despite concerns about the "baseball bat" feel, owners find the neck's thickness comfortable, comparable to beefy necks like the 58 Les Paul reissue.

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  • Owners report the nitro finish eventually checking, especially if the guitar is subjected to varying temperatures and humidity.

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Comparisons

  • The neck feel of the AVHR 62 is likened to the PRS McCarty 594, offering a comfortable experience for players accustomed to thicker necks.

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  • The Hot Rod Strat is a blend of vintage and modern features, unlike other models that only incorporate modern specs, such as a flatter fretboard and larger frets.

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  • The poly undercoat prevents the guitar from wearing to bare wood like pre-CBS Fenders, affecting the tactile feel of the wood grain.

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Use cases and applications

  • The guitar's pickups are noted for producing a strong "quack" sound when the middle and bridge pickups are combined, enhancing its versatility for different musical styles.

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Build quality

  • The Olympic White nitro finish ages over time, transitioning to an off-white vanilla shade with characteristic hairline cracks similar to Closet Classic custom shop finishes.

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  • The "thin skin" finish, despite marketing, includes a poly base coat, which impacts how it ages compared to true pre-CBS models.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Upon acquisition, some guitars may require a full service due to inactivity, such as addressing fret corrosion and general grime.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Consider swapping to a neck Texas Special pickup for those seeking a different tonal character compared to the stock low-output pickups.

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