Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $227

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Step into the world of electric guitar with the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red, a versatile instrument that bridges the gap between affordability and quality. This guitar is designed for musicians who want to express their unique sound without breaking the bank. The sleek, solid body is crafted from lightweight alder, offering not only a stylish look but also exceptional resonance and tone. The bolt-on maple neck ensures a smooth playing experience, while the rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of warmth to your sound.

What sets the Squier HSS apart is its flexible pickup configuration. It features two single-coil pickups and a humbucking pickup, offering a wide palette of tones suitable for various musical genres. The 5-way blade switch allows for seamless transitions between pickups, while the master volume and two tone controls provide further sonic sculpting. Chrome hardware, including die-cast tuners and a synchronous tremolo bridge, ensure durability and tuning stability during your performances. The large '60s style headstock not only adds a nod to classic design but also enhances string tension for a richer sound.

Whether you're a budding guitarist or a seasoned player looking for a reliable backup, the Squier HSS delivers an impressive blend of style, sound, and playability.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight alder body
  • Bolt-on maple neck
  • Rosewood fingerboard
  • Two single-coil pickups and one humbucking pickup
  • 5-way blade switch
  • Master volume and two tone controls
  • Chrome hardware including die-cast tuners
  • Synchronous tremolo bridge
  • Large '60s style headstock

FAQs

What kind of music is the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red best suited for?

The Squier HSS Candy Apple Red, with its HSS pickup configuration, is versatile and can handle a range of styles from rock and blues to pop and jazz, offering both bright single-coil tones and a powerful humbucker sound.

Is the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable C-shaped neck and medium jumbo frets, making it easy to play and learn on.

What is the neck profile of the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red?

The neck of the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red features a modern C shape, which provides a comfortable grip and is ideal for a wide range of playing styles.

How does the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red handle different pickup configurations?

The Squier HSS Candy Apple Red features a 5-way pickup switch, allowing you to easily switch between the bright tones of the single-coils and the fuller sound of the humbucker, offering great tonal flexibility.

Does the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red come with a case?

No, the Squier HSS Candy Apple Red does not come with a case; it is sold separately.

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Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Mods and upgrades

  • Custom pick guards with Tom DeLonge volume knob placement improve comfort by lowering knob position for better access without accidental hits.

    Source
  • A switch to P90s or PAF-style pickups is often recommended for improved tone in rock and indie genres.

    Source
  • Replacing the plastic nut with a bone or Graph Tech nut is suggested for better tuning stability and sound quality.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the tuning stability during challenging techniques like bends, even for beginners exploring complex music styles.

    Source
  • Owners often use the neck pickup for tones similar to Red Hot Chili Peppers.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Candy Apple Red finish is well-loved, but some plan future repaints to colors like Daphne Blue for personal customization.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar serves as a reliable starter setup for beginners transitioning from other instruments, like drums, to guitar.

    Source
  • For stage performances, consulting with a director about amp and sound settings is crucial for achieving the desired sound during Tech Week.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Post-setup tuning instability is noted, with guitars needing about a week to stabilize after changes.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
shok
shok

1509

WORKS!

I got this guitar years ago for $25. I rarely used it until I worked on an album and it had the perfect sound for the material. I have since grown to love this!

I have loved the way this plays so much that I even got a black one with a chrome pickguard for shows.

Artist usage

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See how SEMATARY uses Squier HSS

SEMATARY

Rapper, Music Producer

...
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In this studio photo posted to instagram, you can see a red squier stratocaster.

Genre Usage

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

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