AudioFu
Warwick Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 LH… ↓ 33.4% $671Allen & Heath SQ5 ↓ 28.8% $2,912Warwick Alien Deluxe 5 NT LH ↓ 27.8% $727Allen & Heath SQ5 Case Bundle I ↓ 26.7% $3,170Casio AP-S200 BN ↓ 23.9% $963Allen & Heath SQ5, Case, DX168/X… ↓ 21.7% $5,187Dangerous Music 2 Bus+ ↓ 21.0% $4,033Orange PPC212-COB ↓ 20.6% $586Seymour Duncan SHR-1B Hot Rails… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SHR1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Bridge… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Parchment ↓ 19.3% $122Korg Nautilus 61 AT ↓ 19.0% $2,016

AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Fender ST Style Guitars 2026

The top pick is Fender Player II Stratocaster ($895). Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 123 models, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 10, 2026

123models in this chart
1brands
$3,798median price
74price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All ST Style Guitars Showing: Fender · clear

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Fender Player II Stratocaster

    Player II Strat MN RLO · Fender

    613 for sale on Reverb26 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42 mm (1.65")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
    • BodyAlder body

    This guitar feels solid with its maple neck and alder body, giving it a balanced voice for most playing styles. The Alnico 5 pickups sound bright and clear, while the synthetic bone nut keeps tuning steady. It suits players who want a reliable, mid-range Strat without extra bells and whistles.

    Pros

    • Modern C neck profile fits many hands comfortably.
    • Alnico 5 pickups deliver bright, crisp single-coil tone.
    • Synthetic bone nut ensures stable intonation across strings.

    Cons

    • No weight spec listed makes total mass unknown.
    • Simplified controls lack dedicated volume knob for clarity.
    91AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup88
    • Price80
    • Specs75
    • Maker99
    ↓ 10.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $996 · Aug 17$895 now
    $895€799 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. Fender American Professional Classic Stratocaster

    Am Pro Clsc Strat HSS MN FLPB · Fender

    290 for sale on Reverb11 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
    • BodyAlder body

    This guitar feels like a workhorse ready for any gig. The maple neck is easy to slide behind your fingers, and the pickups give you both clean cut and thick crunch. It is a solid choice for players who want a reliable vintage shape without the extra cost.

    Pros

    • Modern C neck profile plays comfortably for large hands
    • Coastline pickups blend vintage single coil with modern humbucker power
    • Synthetic bone nut stays stable in humidity changes

    Cons

    • No specific weight listed makes balance feel uncertain
    • Single master volume limits tone shaping compared to dual volume
    82AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand88
    • Lineup66
    • Price82
    • Specs75
    • Maker99
    ↓ 10.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $1,792 · Aug 17$1,599 now
    $1,599€1,427 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster

    Player II Mod Strat HSS MN 3TS · Fender

    175 for sale on Reverb14 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42 mm (1.65")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
    • BodyAlder body

    The Player II Mod Strat HSS is a seriously solid upgrade from the standard Player series. The modified humbucker gives it a modern edge, while the noiseless pickups retain that classic Strat chime. It's a fantastic, versatile instrument for gigging musicians and players wanting a well-rounded, modern platform to build on.

    Pros

    • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
    • Modified humbucker delivers thick, powerful rhythm tones and searing leads.
    • Modern 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.

    Cons

    • Maple fretboard can feel a little slick for some players; might require seasoning.
    • Tremolo system, while functional, isn't quite as smooth as a premium vintage unit.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand81
    • Lineup72
    • Price62
    • Specs75
    • Maker99
    ↓ 4.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $1,167 · Aug 14$1,119 now
    $1,119€999 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster

    Am Ultra II Strat HSS EB NBL · Fender

    197 for sale on Reverb11 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Frets22 frets
    • BodyAlder body
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This Am Ultra II is a serious player's Strat, blending modern features with premium components. The ebony board and hot pickups offer a snappy response and extended range, making it ideal for players who want versatility—from clean chime to searing lead tones. It’s a high-end instrument built for the discerning musician.

    Pros

    • Ebony fretboard offers exceptional clarity and sustain.
    • Haymaker humbucker delivers powerful, articulate high-gain tones.
    • Compound radius improves playability across the entire fretboard.

    Cons

    • The alder body, while resonant, might lack the weight of a heavier tonewood.
    • Ebony fingerboards can be sensitive to humidity changes and require care.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand82
    • Lineup66
    • Price76
    • Specs63
    • Maker99
    ↓ 8.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $2,800 · Aug 14$2,554 now
    $2,554€2,279 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster

    LTD Am Ultra Strat NAT HSS · Fender

    197 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
    • BodyAsh body

    This guitar feels solid thanks to its roasted ash body and roasted maple neck combo. The Seymour Duncan and Custom Shop pickups give you a full range of sounds from bluesy to clear. It suits anyone who wants a comfortable Modern D neck and a reliable tremolo system.

    Pros

    • Roasted ash body for a brighter, more open tone
    • Graph Tech TUSQ nut reduces string breakage and noise
    • Seymour Duncan and Custom Shop pickups for rich tone

    Cons

    • No weight spec listed means you cannot verify the feel
    • Roasted maple neck is a unique build not seen often
    67AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand82
    • Lineup29
    • Price50
    • Specs75
    • Maker99
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$3,361 now
    $3,361€2,999 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Fender Custom Shop '59 Reissue Stratocaster Relic

    59 Strat 2TSB JM Relic · Fender

    104 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width41.9 mm (1.65")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Frets21 frets
    • Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
    • BodyAlder body

    This is a seriously dialed-in Strat. The '59 D neck and those hand-wound pickups nail that classic, glassy tone. If you're chasing that vintage vibe and appreciate a well-worn feel, this Custom Shop relic is a premium-priced dream come true.

    Pros

    • Hand-wound '50s pickups deliver authentic, bell-like Strat tone.
    • Relic'd finish replicates the feel of a well-loved vintage instrument.
    • Comfortable '59 D neck profile enhances playability and speed.

    Cons

    • Relic'd finish may not appeal to players preferring a pristine look.
    • Alder body, while resonant, can make it a bit heavier than some alternatives.
    65AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup37
    • Price50
    • Specs75
    • Maker99
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$5,658 now
    $5,658€5,049 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Fender Custom Shop '69 Reissue Stratocaster Relic

    69 Strat Relic MN GYW HSS FR · Fender

    69 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Frets21 frets
    • Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
    • BodyAlder body

    This guitar mixes vintage styling with modern power. The bolt-on maple neck feels solid, and the EVH pickup drives the tone hard. It suits players who want heavy distortion but still love classic Strat styling.

    Pros

    • True vintage 69 Strat look with authentic black dot inlays
    • EVH Wolfgang pickup adds aggressive modern rock tone
    • Bolt-on maple neck offers rock-solid stability and sustain

    Cons

    • Graffiti Yellow finish requires extreme care to keep clean
    • Heavy hand-wound pickups will significantly increase guitar weight
    64AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand66
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs75
    • Maker99
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$7,171 now
    $7,171€6,399 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Fender Custom Shop '63 Reissue Stratocaster Relic

    63 Strat Black Relic · Fender

    63 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
    • BodyAlder body

    This Black Relic Strat is a serious contender for vintage tone purists. The combination of the alder body, '60s neck, and Custom Shop pickups delivers that classic Strat snap and chime, while the relic'd finish nails the aged aesthetic. It’s ideal for players seeking an authentic, comfortable, and inspiring instrument – particularly those into blues, classic rock, and vintage-inspired tones.

    Pros

    • Alder body delivers a resonant, balanced tone with excellent sustain.
    • ’60s oval ‘C’ neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability.
    • Custom Shop pickups provide authentic vintage Strat tones with surprising clarity.

    Cons

    • Relic finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be fragile and require careful handling.
    • The 7.25” radius may not suit players accustomed to modern, flatter fingerboards.
    62AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand65
    • Lineup37
    • Price89
    • Specs38
    • Maker99
    ↓ 13.0%since Aug 14
    $6,050 · Aug 14$5,265 now
    $5,265€4,698 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. Fender STR RK Richie Kotzen Signature Stratocaster Made In Japan

    Richie Kotzen Stratocaster TRB · Fender

    63 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width42 mm (1.65")
    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
    • BodyAsh body
    • FingerboardMaple fingerboard

    This Richie Kotzen Strat is a seriously good player, built in Japan to a high standard. The DiMarzio pickups give it a modern edge, perfect for rock, blues, and even some heavier styles. It’s a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of performance for the discerning player.

    Pros

    • Ash body provides focused, resonant tone with excellent sustain
    • DiMarzio pickups deliver high-output, articulate tones for modern rock
    • Thick C neck profile suits players preferring a substantial, comfortable feel

    Cons

    • The thick C neck profile isn’t for players preferring thinner, faster necks
    • Ash body can be somewhat prone to finish checking with age and temperature changes
    61AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand65
    • Lineup29
    • Price64
    • Specs63
    • Maker99
    ↓ 4.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $2,576 · Aug 14$2,460 now
    $2,460€2,195 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Fender Custom Shop '65 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic

    65 Strat CAR JM Relic · Fender

    36 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann

    • Scale648 mm (25.51")
    • Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
    • BodyAlder body

    This is a seriously dialed-in Strat, perfectly capturing that mid-’60s vibe. The relic'd finish and aged hardware look and feel fantastic, while the custom pickups offer a sweet, articulate tone. It’s a dream for players chasing classic Fender tones and a vintage aesthetic, but it’s an investment.

    Pros

    • Hand-wound '65 single coils deliver authentic, bell-like vintage Strat tones.
    • The 7.25” radius rosewood fingerboard offers exceptional playability and vintage feel.
    • Journeyman Relic finish replicates the wear of a well-loved, played-in instrument.

    Cons

    • The Relic finish, while aesthetically pleasing, may not appeal to all players.
    • The 9mm fingerboard profile is thinner than modern Strats; an adjustment may be needed.
    60AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand56
    • Lineup48
    • Price85
    • Specs38
    • Maker99
    ↓ 11.6%since Aug 14
    $5,826 · Aug 14$5,153 now
    $5,153€4,598 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 123 ST style guitars

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Fender Custom Shop '56 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic56 Strat Journeyman Relic 2CS · 3 finishes
    Index 59Stable
    59
    Stable$5,826€5,199
    $5,826€5,199Check ↗
  2. 12
    Fender Custom Shop '55 Reissue Stratocaster Relic55 Strat MN Sunburst CC · 2 finishes
    Index 58Stable
    58
    Stable$4,980€4,444
    $4,980€4,444Check ↗
  3. 13
    Fender Limited Edition Vintera II Road Worn '60s Stratocaster60s DM II CR Strat Relic 3TSB · 2 finishes
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$6,386€5,699
    $6,386€5,699Check ↗
  4. 14
    Fender MIJ Hybrid II StratocasterMIJ Hybrid II Strat RW MAB · 2 finishes
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$1,713€1,529
    $1,713€1,529Check ↗
  5. 15
    Fender Artist Series Yngwie Malmsteen Signature Stratocaster 2007…Yngwie Malmsteen MN VW · 3 finishes
    Index 55↑ 1.8%
    55
    ↑ 1.8%$3,081€2,749
    $3,081€2,749Check ↗
  6. 16
    Fender Standard Strat HSS LRL WPG CNDFender · 7 finishes
    Index 54↓ 5.1%
    54
    ↓ 5.1%$669€597
    $669€597Check ↗
  7. 17
    Fender 50th Anniversary Dave Murray Signature StratocasterDave Murray Strat 2TSB
    Index 53↑ 5.7%
    53
    ↑ 5.7%$1,456€1,299
    $1,456€1,299Check ↗
  8. 18
    Fender Mark Speer Signature StratocasterMark Speer Strat MN NAT
    Index 52↓ 1.3%
    52
    ↓ 1.3%$1,680€1,499
    $1,680€1,499Check ↗
  9. 19
    Fender 56 Strat FRD RelicFender · 3 finishes
    Index 52↓ 8.0%
    52
    ↓ 8.0%$5,153€4,598
    $5,153€4,598Check ↗
  10. 20
    Fender Custom Shop Johnny A. Signature StratocasterJohnny A. Strat RW LGM · 2 finishes
    Index 52↓ 4.2%
    52
    ↓ 4.2%$5,154€4,599
    $5,154€4,599Check ↗
  11. 21
    Fender Vintera III L 60s Strat 3TSBFender · 3 finishes
    Index 49↓ 6.0%
    49
    ↓ 6.0%$1,209€1,079
    $1,209€1,079Check ↗
  12. 22
    Fender Vintera III E 60s Strat SNBFender · 3 finishes
    Index 49↓ 6.0%
    49
    ↓ 6.0%$1,209€1,079
    $1,209€1,079Check ↗
  13. 23
    Fender MIJ Act Modern Strat RW 2TSFender · 4 finishes
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$1,769€1,579
    $1,769€1,579Check ↗
  14. 24
    Fender LTD Pro Clsc Silent Strat CARFender · 4 finishes
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$2,050€1,829
    $2,050€1,829Check ↗
  15. 25
    Fender Stevie Ray Vaughan Stratocaster Electric GuitarStevie Ray Vaughan
    Index 49↑ 4.2%
    49
    ↑ 4.2%$3,025€2,699
    $3,025€2,699Check ↗
  16. 26
    Fender Ultra Luxe 60s Strat HSS FRDFender · 5 finishes
    Index 49↓ 6.3%
    49
    ↓ 6.3%$3,358€2,997
    $3,358€2,997Check ↗
  17. 27
    Fender Ritchie Blackmore Artist Series Signature StratocasterRitchie Blackmore Strat
    Index 48↑ 3.6%
    48
    ↑ 3.6%$1,624€1,449
    $1,624€1,449Check ↗
  18. 28
    Fender 50 Strat Black NOSFender
    Index 48↓ 12.4%
    48
    ↓ 12.4%$4,369€3,899
    $4,369€3,899Check ↗
  19. 29
    Fender 57 Strat WBL JM RelicFender · 3 finishes
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$5,658€5,049
    $5,658€5,049Check ↗
  20. 30
    Fender LTD Player II Strat RW SHPFender · 2 finishes
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$996€889
    $996€889Check ↗
  21. 31
    Fender Vintera II 50s Strat MN BKFender · 2 finishes
    Index 47↓ 10.5%
    47
    ↓ 10.5%$1,072€957
    $1,072€957Check ↗
  22. 32
    Fender LTD Player Fusion Strat HSS OPFender · 2 finishes
    Index 47↓ 1.2%
    47
    ↓ 1.2%$1,294€1,155
    $1,294€1,155Check ↗
  23. 33
    Fender Artist Series Jim Root Signature StratocasterJim Root Stratocaster EB BK
    Index 47↑ 2.7%
    47
    ↑ 2.7%$2,299€2,052
    $2,299€2,052Check ↗
  24. 34
    Fender Jeff Beck Artist Series StratocasterJeff Beck Strat OW
    Index 47↑ 16.0%
    47
    ↑ 16.0%$3,249€2,899
    $3,249€2,899Check ↗
  25. 35
    Fender 61 Strat TCP RW AOLWFender · 4 finishes
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$5,377€4,798
    $5,377€4,798Check ↗
  26. 36
    Fender Custom Shop Jeff Beck StratocasterJeff Beck Custom Shop SFG · 2 finishes
    Index 47↓ 7.8%
    47
    ↓ 7.8%$5,579€4,979
    $5,579€4,979Check ↗
  27. 37
    Fender Vintera III L 50s Strat 3CSBFender · 3 finishes
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$1,280€1,142
    $1,280€1,142Check ↗
  28. 38
    Fender AV II 61 Strat RW SFGFender · 3 finishes
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$2,957€2,639
    $2,957€2,639Check ↗
  29. 39
    Fender Ultra Luxe 50s Strat MN 3TSBFender · 2 finishes
    Index 46↓ 6.4%
    46
    ↓ 6.4%$3,356€2,995
    $3,356€2,995Check ↗
  30. 40
    Fender Player II HSS RW RLOFender
    Index 45↓ 2.4%
    45
    ↓ 2.4%$973€868
    $973€868Check ↗
  31. 41
    Fender Tom Morello Arm The HomelessFender
    Index 45↓ 0.7%
    45
    ↓ 0.7%$2,003€1,787
    $2,003€1,787Check ↗
  32. 42
    Fender 60 Strat CAR RelicFender · 4 finishes
    Index 45↓ 3.9%
    45
    ↓ 3.9%$5,601€4,998
    $5,601€4,998Check ↗
  33. 43
    Fender Custom Shop Rory Gallagher Tribute StratocasterRory Gallagher Relic Strat
    Index 45↓ 0.6%
    45
    ↓ 0.6%$6,349€5,666
    $6,349€5,666Check ↗
  34. 44
    Fender LTD 61 Strat SHR GSo3CSBFender · 2 finishes
    Index 45↓ 13.9%
    45
    ↓ 13.9%$6,947€6,199
    $6,947€6,199Check ↗
  35. 45
    Fender 62/63 Strat SHR Lake PlacidFender · 5 finishes
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$7,395€6,599
    $7,395€6,599Check ↗
  36. 46
    Fender Custom Deluxe Strat HB-S1 SFSPFender · 2 finishes
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$8,179€7,299
    $8,179€7,299Check ↗
  37. 47
    Fender Exclusive MIJ 60s Strat RW SFGFender
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$1,456€1,299
    $1,456€1,299Check ↗
  38. 48
    Fender Eric Johnson StratocasterEric Johnson Strat WBL
    Index 44↑ 8.0%
    44
    ↑ 8.0%$3,025€2,699
    $3,025€2,699Check ↗
  39. 49
    Fender 56 Strat FRD Journeyman RelicFender
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$5,714€5,099
    $5,714€5,099Check ↗
  40. 50
    Fender 56 Strat BLK Journeyman RelicFender
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$5,714€5,099
    $5,714€5,099Check ↗

ST Style Guitars by the numbers

Measured across all 1,428 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $3,798 — half of all ST style guitars here cost less.

7
61
46
118
27
1
<$750$750–1.5k$1.5k–3k$3k–7.5k$7.5k–15k$15k+
Frets22

median of 734 models · 21–24

Nut width42 mm (1.65")

median of 1,110 models · 41.9 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")

Scale648 mm (25.51")

median of 1,292 models · 635 mm (25")–648 mm (25.51")

Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")

median of 718 models · 184.1 mm (7.25")–430 mm (16.93")

How to choose the best ST style guitars

Heritage & Design

The ST's lineage is undeniable. It’s the blueprint for modern rock and blues tones, and that influence is baked into the design – the double cutaway, the bolt-on neck, the headstock shape. It’s not just aesthetics; it’s a specific feel and a specific way the guitar vibrates.

Pickup Voicing

This is HUGE. The early STs had that Alnico magnet magic – a warm, complex tone with plenty of chime but also a real growl when you crank the amp. Later models often sacrificed that character for more output, resulting in a thinner, harsher tone. Knowing what pickups are in a guitar is crucial.

Neck Profile

The feel of the neck is incredibly personal. From the chunky '60s C to the slim '70s U, the neck profile dramatically impacts playability and comfort. A neck that's too thick will slow you down, while one that’s too thin can feel lifeless.

Build Quality & Hardware

Let’s be real, budget models cut corners. The tuners might be flimsy, the frets might be poorly dressed, and the finish might chip easily. Higher-end models boast better wood selection, tighter tolerances, and hardware that’ll last through years of abuse – a worthwhile investment if you plan on gigging regularly.

Resonance & Sustain

The ST’s body design and wood choices contribute to its sustain and resonance. Alder is the classic choice for a balanced tone, while ash tends to be brighter and more resonant. A well-built ST will sing, especially when plugged into a good amp.

Buying guide

Alright, so you’re in the market for a Fender ST-style guitar? Smart move. They’re iconic for a reason, but ‘ST-style’ covers a lot of ground, from budget Mexican models to meticulously crafted American vintage reissues. Let's cut through the noise and figure out which one's right for your ears and your wallet – whether you’re gigging out, tracking in a studio, or just jamming at home.

Don't chase the vintage mojo unless your budget allows. Mexican-made guitars offer incredible value, but expect some compromises – often in the pickups and hardware. American-made models are a step up, but the price jumps significantly.

Ultimately, play before you buy; even within the same model line, guitars can vary wildly.

How the AudioFu Index works

Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.

This chart covers 260 ST style guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 1,428 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.

AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.

  • Demand40%

    How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.

  • Lineup20%

    How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.

  • Price15%

    Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.

  • Specs15%

    How completely the maker documents it.

  • Maker10%

    How deep the brand’s range is in this category.

Questions

Are Mexican Fenders ‘good enough’?

Absolutely. They’re a fantastic value, especially if you’re willing to swap out the pickups for something more to your taste. The body and neck are generally solid, and with a few upgrades, they can easily hold their own.

What’s the difference between an American Standard and an American Professional ST?

American Standard are generally considered the ‘classic’ workhorse, while the American Professional models incorporate modern refinements like rolled fingerboards and more sculpted neck heels for improved access to the higher frets. Tone-wise, they’re close, but the Pro models often have a slightly more polished feel.

Should I worry about the neck radius?

It matters. A flatter radius (like 9.5”) is often preferred for bending strings without fretting out, while a rounder radius (7.25”) can feel more vintage and comfortable for some players. Try both before you commit.

What about the finish? Does it affect the tone?

Minimal impact, honestly. A thicker finish *might* slightly dampen resonance, but it’s not a game-changer. More importantly, consider how durable the finish is – nitrocellulose finishes are beautiful but more prone to checking and cracking.

Are vintage reissues worth the money?

They’re a luxury. You’re paying for the aesthetics and a closer approximation of vintage specs, but modern manufacturing techniques often make them play better than their vintage counterparts. If the budget allows and the vibe is right, go for it, but don't expect a magical tone boost.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 91Fender Player II Stratocaster · $895€799
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗