Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $150
Budget/Beginner
$400
$1001+
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Description
The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret 1997 - 2000 is a classic embodiment of the Stratocaster's enduring legacy, offering an accessible entry point for budding guitarists and a reliable option for seasoned players alike. Crafted during the late 90s to the dawn of the new millennium, this model is known for its robust build and versatile sound, capturing the essence of the iconic Fender Stratocaster at a more accessible price point. Its solid body construction ensures durability and resonance, while the 21-fret maple neck provides a smooth playing experience, ideal for both rhythm and lead guitar parts.
Equipped with three single-coil pickups, the Affinity Stratocaster delivers a dynamic range of tones, from crisp, clear highs to warm, rounded lows. The five-way pickup selector switch allows for a wide array of tonal possibilities, making it suitable for various music genres—from blues to rock to pop. The vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge adds to the guitar's classic appeal and provides smooth whammy bar action for expressive playing styles.
Players will appreciate the comfortable C-shaped neck profile, which facilitates easy chord changes and fast soloing. Whether you're jamming at home, in the studio, or on stage, the Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster combines style and substance, staying true to its Strat heritage while offering modern playability and affordability.
Key Features:
- Solid body construction for durability and resonance
- 21-fret maple neck with a smooth playing surface
- Three single-coil pickups for a versatile range of tones
- Five-way pickup selector for diverse tonal options
- Vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge
- Comfortable C-shaped neck profile for easy playability
Product specs
| Brand | Squier |
| Model | Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret with Maple Fretboard, Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret with Rosewood Fretboard |
| Finish | Arctic White, Baltic Blue, Black, Torino Red |
| Year | 1997 - 2000 |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Shape | S-Style |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Tremolo Bridge |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Red, White |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Maple, Rosewood |
| Fretboard Radius | 9.5" |
| Frets | Medium Jumbo |
| Model Family | Squier Stratocaster |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 21 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | SSS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Squier Affinity |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile like on the Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret?
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The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret features a comfortable "C"-shaped neck profile, which is ideal for both beginners and experienced players, offering smooth playability and ease of handling.
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What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret?
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This model features a classic SSS (single-coil) pickup configuration, providing bright, clear tones with a bell-like quality, suitable for a wide range of genres including rock, blues, and pop.
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Is the Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster is an excellent choice for beginners due to its affordable price point, solid construction, and versatile sound, making it a great entry into electric guitar playing.
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What is the difference between the maple and rosewood fretboards on the Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret?
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The maple fretboard typically offers a brighter tone with more snap, while the rosewood fretboard provides a warmer, softer sound. Both options are comfortable to play and it largely depends on personal preference.
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Does the Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret have a tremolo bridge?
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Yes, this model is equipped with a tremolo bridge, allowing players to add vibrato effects to their playing, enhancing the guitar's expressive capabilities.
Videos
Brook Hoover
2000 Squier Strat Test
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret 1997 - 2000.
Mods and upgrades
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Fender Texas Special pickups are recommended for those seeking a classic Strat sound.
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A heavier bridge and Tusq nut are simple upgrades that owners have found to enhance playability and tone.
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A loaded pickguard with hot Texas blues Alnico 5 SSS pickups is suggested for improved tone; it's a $45 upgrade.
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Refinishing in Pelham blue nitro and vintage tinting the neck can upgrade the guitar's look while maintaining its original color for sentimental reasons.
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Custom pickguards and a black pickguard with white pickups and knobs can provide a sharp aesthetic contrast.
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DiMarzio Virtual Vintage in the bridge and Lace Sensors (silver neck, gold middle) are recommended for reducing 60-cycle hum and offering a variety of tones.
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Owners suggest using a set of roller string trees to enhance tuning stability, especially during tremolo use.
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Graphtec nut and Wilkinson locking tuners are recommended for improving tuning stability and ease of use.
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Recommended to replace the stock electronics and pickups for enhanced sound quality; Seymour Duncan pickups are a popular choice among owners.
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Use cases and applications
User experience
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Some owners find the guitar surprisingly good even when intending to use it for parts, indicating decent stock quality.
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Users mention that with a proper setup, this Squier Strat can feel comparable to more expensive models like Fender Strats.
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Owners have noted the challenge in finding a suitable trem block due to sizing issues, with American-made options being costly due to shipping.
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Comparisons
Features and functionality
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The factory setup is considered adequate for beginners, allowing initial focus on playing rather than adjustments.
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Setup and maintenance
Value and pricing
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Typically available for £75-£90, considered a bargain for a mod-friendly guitar.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
209
Great guitar
Just because it’s says ‘squier’ on the headstock, it doesn’t have to be low quality!
I’ve had mine for a few years now, it was handed down to me by my dad who bought it in 2000. The stock pickups sound great and wiring & hardware is solid, the maple neck and rosewood fretboard feel better than fenders I’ve tried. The agathis body and maple neck being slimmer makes this guitar great for barre chords and heavy downstrokes.
This guitar is of great quality, and you can tell. It feels like a much more expensive instrument in the hand and if you blindfolded me, I probably wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between it and a more expensive guitar.
Great instrument. Would recommend.
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 Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster 21-Fret 1997 - 2000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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