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Description

Dive into a world of sonic exploration with the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS, where classic design meets modern innovation. This guitar is crafted for the musician who seeks versatility without compromising on style. The HSS pickup configuration offers a dynamic range of tones, from the rich warmth of the humbucker to the crisp clarity of single coils, making it perfect for any genre. Its sleek, streamlined body is complemented by a finish-matched headstock, adding a touch of sophistication to your performance.

The Indian Laurel fretboard provides a smooth playing experience, and with 22 frets, you have no shortage of expression. The slim, comfortable neck profile allows for effortless playability, ideal for both beginners and seasoned guitarists. Dive-bomb through solos or achieve subtle vibrato with the help of the synchronized tremolo bridge, ensuring your tuning stays rock-solid.

Whether you're jamming at home or taking the stage, the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS is your ticket to a world of limitless musical possibilities. Its versatility, combined with a modern aesthetic, makes it a standout choice for any guitarist looking to push the boundaries of their sound.

Key Features:

  • HSS pickup configuration for versatile tonal options
  • Indian Laurel fretboard with 22 frets
  • Finish-matched headstock for a cohesive look
  • Synchronized tremolo bridge for expressive playing
  • Slim neck profile for comfortable playability

Product specs

Brand Squier
Model Contemporary Stratocaster HSS with Laurel Fretboard, Contemporary Stratocaster HSS with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Black Metallic, Ocean Blue Metallic, Pearl White
Year 2018
Made In China
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, White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Laurel, Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 12"
Model Family Squier Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.65"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Squier Contemporary
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What type of music is the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS best suited for?

The Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS is versatile and well-suited for genres like rock, pop, and blues, thanks to its humbucker and single-coil pickup configuration, which offers a range of tones from warm and full to bright and clear.

How does the HSS pickup configuration affect the sound of this guitar?

The HSS configuration provides a humbucker at the bridge for powerful, high-output tones, ideal for rock and heavier styles, while the single-coil pickups offer bright, crisp sounds, perfect for clean and bluesy tones.

Is the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS is a great choice for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile, versatile sound options, and affordable price point, making it an accessible entry into electric guitar playing.

What is the neck profile like on the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS?

The neck of the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS features a modern "C" shape, which is comfortable for most players and facilitates smooth playability across the fretboard.

Does the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS have a tremolo bridge?

Yes, the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS is equipped with a tremolo bridge, allowing for pitch modulation effects and adding expressive capabilities to your playing.

The Guitar Manifesto

The Guitar Manifesto

UNBOXING Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS Review

Video thumbnail for UNBOXING Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS Review by The Guitar Manifesto

UNBOXING Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS Review

The Guitar Manifesto

The Guitar Manifesto

Reviews

PROS

  • Smooth and fun to play neck with light satin finish

  • Versatile sound with both humbucker and single-coil pickups

  • Great fit and finish, especially for the price

  • Excellent craftsmanship, notably the fretwork

  • Matching headstock enhances the guitar's aesthetic appeal

  • Ready to play out of the box with minimal setup

  • Lightweight design, around 7 1/2 lbs

  • Suitable for a wide range of music genres

  • Great value for beginners and pros on a budget

CONS

  • Factory strings may not be to everyone's taste

  • Neck material feels cheaper than higher-end models

  • Tone knob lacks dynamic range

  • Quality control varies, requiring potential upgrades

  • Potential grounding issues in some units

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS.

Setup and maintenance

  • It's recommended to get a professional setup initially to address intonation and action issues, common in budget guitars like the Squier.

    Source

User experience

  • New owners often find the guitar to be highly enjoyable, especially when transitioning from acoustic models, enhancing the overall playing experience.

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  • Owners with smaller hands or arthritis might find the Strat's 25.5" scale challenging; a shorter scale guitar like the Mustang could be more comfortable.

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Value and pricing

  • A specific model with a minor paint chip was priced at $250, indicating potential for deals on slightly flawed units.

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Comparisons

  • Some beginners wish they had chosen the HSS model over the Affinity Strat for its versatility and features.

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  • For those considering alternatives, a Mexican Strat is suggested as comparable in quality, with additional funds recommended for a high-quality amp.

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Features and functionality

  • The Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HSS's humbucker in the bridge offers versatility for rock and metal, while retaining classic Strat clean tones with the middle and neck single coils.

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Mods and upgrades

  • The HSS configuration is highly praised for its versatility, making it a favored choice over standard SSS setups for diverse musical genres.

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Critic Reviews

Reviewed: Squier Contemporary Telecaster HH and Stratocaster HSS - Mixdown Magazine

mixdownmag.com.au

Squier's Contemporary Stratocaster HSS in Ocean Blue Metallic delivers a striking aesthetic alongside impressive playability, appealing to both novice and seasoned players alike. Its modern features and HSS pickup configuration provide versatile tones that resonate well in various styles. However, while the design and sound are commendable, some may find it lacks the depth and nuance of higher-end models. Overall, this guitar stands out as a fantastic entry point, though serious musicians might seek something with more complexity.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

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un_tal_david

Really good guitar!

This guitar is a fucking beast. It’s really good, and very versatile too! You can play from the cleanest jazz to the hardest metal, and with a change in the bridge pickup and some higher gauge on strings, you get a really killer guitar for metal.

Genre Usage

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

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