Pricing and availability

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Description

The Squier Stratocaster Sq series presents a perfect entry point for aspiring guitarists and seasoned players looking for a reliable, classic sound without breaking the bank. Crafted under the renowned Fender umbrella, this electric guitar offers the iconic Stratocaster body shape that has defined rock and roll for decades. With its solid body construction, the Sq series delivers the rich, full tones that are characteristic of the Stratocaster lineage, making it a versatile choice for various music genres.

Featuring a comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile, the Squier Stratocaster Sq series provides an accessible playing experience for hands of all sizes. The guitar is equipped with three single-coil pickups that offer a wide range of tonal possibilities, from bright and twangy to warm and mellow sounds. The five-way pickup selector switch enables seamless transitions between these tonal options, giving players the freedom to tailor their sound to their liking.

Whether you're jamming at home, recording in the studio, or performing live, the Squier Stratocaster Sq series is designed to meet the demands of modern musicians. Its vintage-style tremolo bridge allows for expressive pitch bending and vibrato effects, enhancing the instrument's dynamic capabilities. The guitar's sleek design and quality craftsmanship ensure that it not only sounds great but also stands up to the rigors of regular use.

Key Features:

  • Iconic Stratocaster body shape
  • Solid body electric guitar
  • Comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile
  • Three single-coil pickups for versatile tones
  • Five-way pickup selector switch
  • Vintage-style tremolo bridge for expressive play
  • Quality craftsmanship and durable design
Steve from Boston

Steve from Boston

1983 Fender Squier 70s "SQ" Stratocaster

Video thumbnail for 1983 Fender Squier 70s "SQ" Stratocaster by Steve from Boston

1983 Fender Squier 70s "SQ" Stratocaster

Steve from Boston

Steve from Boston

Video thumbnail for Squier SQ Stratocaster, 1983 by timsrednavnaj

Squier SQ Stratocaster, 1983

timsrednavnaj

timsrednavnaj

Video thumbnail for Vintage SQ Squier Stratocaster Made in Japan. 1984 by Stephen Devine

Vintage SQ Squier Stratocaster Made in Japan. 1984

Stephen Devine

Stephen Devine

Video thumbnail for Squier Fender SQ Stratocaster 1983 by melwood1

Squier Fender SQ Stratocaster 1983

melwood1

melwood1

Video thumbnail for New to me Squier SQ by Late Boomer Gear Review

New to me Squier SQ

Late Boomer Gear Review

Late Boomer Gear Review

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Value and pricing

  • Prices for these models have reportedly climbed, but many suggest $500-$750 as more appropriate, citing the build quality and rarity.

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Other

  • Custom relic finishes, though controversial, are appreciated by some owners for their unique, well-executed appearance that enhances visual appeal.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Frets described as slightly smaller than standard, which some players with smaller hands find advantageous for fast and smooth playability.

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User experience

  • Guitar with customized relic finish praised for its aesthetics, noted as not being natural but executed with impressive detail that adds unique character.

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  • Some owners have noted that despite the aged components, these guitars maintain a comparable tone to their more expensive counterparts.

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  • The 1983 SQ Strat with a 4-bolt neck and small headstock is a rare, sought-after model among enthusiasts.

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  • The SQ series is praised for its playability, often preferred over American models by some users.

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Build quality

  • It's recommended to check the routing precision under the pickguard when verifying modifications, as factory routes differ in quality and are done pre-paint.

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  • The thick poly finish is distinct and aged uniquely over 40 years, offering a vintage aesthetic separate from newer nitro finishes.

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  • The necks are noted for their comfortable, slim profile with nicely rolled edges, often compared to a Fender Custom Shop in terms of playability.

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  • Some owners mention a preference for the neck, describing it as superior to some USA deluxe models.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners often retrofit a humbucker in the bridge position, noting that original MIJ SQ models were not factory-equipped with this configuration.

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  • Owners often replace original pickups with Fender Tex/Mex or Fat 50s for improved tone.

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  • Owners recommend replacing the original ceramic pickups with Seymour Duncan Hot Stack pickups for enhanced tone and versatility.

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Comparisons

  • The 1983 Squier is often preferred for its vintage specs and craftsmanship, rivaling contemporary American and Mexican Fender models.

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  • Owners compare the SQ series favorably to USA deluxe and MIJ lawsuit Strats, particularly enjoying the neck feel.

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Features and functionality

  • The US pickups in some models are highlighted for contributing to a superior sound quality, distinguishing them from typical Squier electronics.

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Critic Reviews

Rex and the Bass: 1984 Squier Stratocaster SQ CST-50 Guitar Review

rexbass.com

The 1984 Squier Stratocaster SQ CST-50 impresses with its excellent build quality and classic Strat sound, maintaining its original components despite its age. The Japanese craftsmanship shines through, though the tuners don't quite match the vintage aesthetic. This lightweight, well-preserved model stands out in any collection, offering great playability.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

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leon_asen

Meine aktuelle Go-To

Ich spiele derzeit in Berlin fast ausschließlich eine Squier Strat von Simons Gitarrenlehrer mit einem Tone King Humbucker in der Bridge Position. Keine Ahnung ob die Produktionsserie stimmt, aber die Gitarre ist ohnehin zu sehr modifiziert um sich wo einordnen zu lassen. Jedenfalls ist die klasse und ich bin froh sie ausborgen zu dürfen!

Artist usage

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See how Gary Holt uses Squier Stratocaster Sq series

Gary Holt

Guitarist

Slayer

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Verified via Photo

He is holding a Squier SQ series in this image from around 1985

See how Steve Rothery uses Squier Stratocaster Sq series

Steve Rothery

Guitarist

Marillion

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Verified via The Guitar Magazine

Steve's original Squier has been modified with a Kahler tremolo and EMG SA pickups.

See how Matthew Caws uses Squier Stratocaster Sq series

Matthew Caws

Guitarist

Nada Surf

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post by Matthew Caws, he shows a Squier Stratocaster SQ Series that he purchased on Reverb.

See how Peredur Ap Gwynedd uses Squier Stratocaster Sq series

Peredur Ap Gwynedd

Guitarist

Pendulum

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Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Peredur Ap Gwynedd showcases his black and white 1983 Squier SQ Stratocaster, 1972 reissue. He states, "Every time I pick up this guitar, I'm reminded that I don't play it half as often as I should." The post further details the guitar's 70s Fender Strat features and modifications made by Gwynedd himself. The proof is provided by Instagram user perryguitar666, with the caption "Show And Tell: Lockdown guitars."

Album Usage

The Squier Stratocaster Sq series has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

Community setups

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robert_lutz

robert_lutz

Gear IQ 126

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