There are plenty of YouTube and Reddit reviews about this guitar. Some claim it’s the best Fender you can get before stepping into Custom Shop territory. Others mention issues—playability concerns, setup problems, or that the neck feels too chunky. Here’s my take:
I’m coming from years of playing fast, thin-neck Jackson guitars. Then I fell in love with blues. This Fender definitely has a thicker neck than most modern guitars, but since I also play acoustic a lot, I didn’t find it uncomfortable—quite the opposite, actually. The thicker neck gives me better control and helps me bend notes with more expression and feel. I even play chords using my thumb, and though I don’t have big hands, it works just fine on this guitar.
Now let’s talk tone. It’s incredible. There’s a certain mojo to it—something vintage, clean, and deeply musical that’s hard to put into words. I’ve recorded everything from Clapton and Hendrix to SRV and Mayer, and I’ve never felt closer to the original tones. It’s genuinely inspiring.
For Plugin Players:
Pair this guitar with Universal Audio’s Tweed or Deluxe amp plugins—emulations of '50s and '60s Fender amps—and you’ll experience something magical. I got completely lost in playing for nearly six hours the first time I tried that combo.
For Amp Players:
Grab a Fender Deluxe reverb or Tweed amp , and you’ll be golden.
This guitar shines with minimal processing. All you need is a solid amp. Keep it simple and let the tone speak.
If versatility is your top priority, you may be happier with the Fender Ultra series. But if you know you want that authentic Strat sound—if your heroes are from that classic era, and your playing is rooted in that music—this is likely the best you can get without going Custom Shop.
Minor Downside:
Mine arrived needing some adjustments—bridge and pickup heights were off. Not sure if this slipped past Thomann or if it's just part of shipping wear and tear. Either way, if you're buying online, I highly recommend taking the guitar to a luthier for a full setup and inspection right out of the box (the case is really pretty by the way, the only one made in the US before going customshop).
