Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Reverb
5.0 (5)
$307.06 New
$200.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$349.99
Thomann
4.7 (7)
$385.00
Gear4Music
£349.00

Average Price: $324

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass, a guitar that elegantly blends vintage inspiration with modern innovation. This solid-body electric guitar is perfect for musicians seeking a versatile instrument that delivers both classic and contemporary tones. The HSS pickup configuration is a standout feature, offering a bridge humbucker that packs a punch and two single-coil pickups that provide a range of tonal possibilities. Whether you're crafting soulful blues or shredding through rock anthems, the 5-way blade switch gives you the flexibility to tailor your sound to perfection.

Built with a poplar body and a hard maple neck, the CT30-HSS is as durable as it is sonically rich. The maple fingerboard enhances playability, ensuring smooth transitions and fast action across its 22 frets. A Fulcrum tremolo allows for expressive dives and bends, while the die-cast tuners ensure your tuning remains rock-solid. The slim, asymmetrical neck profile is designed to provide comfort and accessibility for players of all styles, making this guitar a reliable companion whether you're in the studio or on stage.

Key Features:

  • Poplar body with hard maple neck
  • Maple fingerboard with a 12" radius
  • 22 frets and a 25.5" scale length
  • HSS pickup configuration: 1 humbucker, 2 single-coils
  • 5-way blade switch for versatile tonal options
  • Fulcrum tremolo for expressive play
  • Chrome hardware with die-cast tuners
  • Asymmetrical neck profile for enhanced playability

Product specs

Available since May 2019
Colour White
Body Poplar
Top None
Neck Maple
Fretboard Maple
Frets 22
Scale 648 mm
Pickups HSS
Tremolo Vintage
incl. Bag No
Including Case No

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass have?

The Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass features an HSS pickup configuration, which includes a humbucker in the bridge position and single-coil pickups in the middle and neck positions, offering a versatile range of tones suitable for various music genres.

Is the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass is a great option for beginners due to its comfortable playability, versatile tone options, and quality construction, making it easy for new players to explore different styles.

What is the neck material of the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass?

The neck of the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass is made from hard maple, providing a sturdy and smooth playing experience that complements the guitar's overall tonal characteristics.

Does the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass come with a case or gig bag?

No, the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass does not include a case or gig bag. You may need to purchase one separately to protect your guitar during transport.

What kind of tremolo system is used in the Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass?

The Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass is equipped with a vintage-style tremolo system, allowing for expressive pitch modulation while maintaining tuning stability.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Sterling by Music Man: Cutlass Demo (ft. Nicholas Veinoglou) - CT30HSS

Video thumbnail for Sterling by Music Man: Cutlass Demo (ft. Nicholas Veinoglou) - CT30HSS by Ernie Ball

Sterling by Music Man: Cutlass Demo (ft. Nicholas Veinoglou) - CT30HSS

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent neck design with a soft V shape, comfortable for extended playing

  • Solid construction, tight fit with no gaps between neck and body

  • Versatile pickups, delivering both punchy humbucker and clear single-coil sounds

  • Responsive two-point tremolo system enhances playability

  • Straight neck with low action, set up perfectly out of the box

  • Truss rod adjustment wheel at neck base for easy setup tweaks

  • Intonates almost perfectly, rare in this price range

  • Quality materials and craftsmanship, especially for the price

  • Resonance and sound quality comparable to higher-end models

CONS

  • Inconsistent quality control, potential issues with volume knob and switch crackling

  • Heavy body may cause balance issues for some players

  • Bulky vintage bridge may feel uncomfortable compared to other models

  • Initial strings are low quality, requiring immediate replacement

  • Fret edges may need additional smoothing or sanding

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling CT30-HSS Cutlass.

Build quality

  • The neck pocket has a slightly uneven gap, but alignment with the strings and body is precise, ensuring functionality.

    Source
  • The guitar is praised for its robust construction, described as being "built like a brick house," suggesting durability suitable for touring.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The nut slots are reported to be too wide and deep, causing fret buzz on the A string from frets 1-5.

    Source
  • The high e string slot is cut too close to the neck edge, affecting playability.

    Source
  • Tuning pegs may arrive loose; tightening is recommended for better stability.

    Source
  • Although the bridge is a 2-point system, some owners express concerns about its suitability for floating, specifically for performing flutters.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The neck is raw unfinished maple, initially feeling rough but becomes smoother after playing and bending strings.

    Source
  • The tone knob is noted for its effectiveness, providing a significant tonal range compared to typical Stratocaster models.

    Source
  • The neck has a 12-inch radius, contributing to a flatter fretboard feel compared to standard Fender setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The neck profile is likened to an EVH Wolfgang, being slightly wider but still comfortable.

    Source
  • Compared to a Fender Strat, the Cutlass CT30-HSS offers a more sleek and comfortable body design.

    Source
  • The neck is compared to the Silver Sky model, with owners indicating a preference based on hand size, suggesting the Cutlass might suit players who find the Silver Sky's neck too small.

    Source

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