Fender Stratocaster's are probably one of the most well known guitars around. When legends like Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimi Hendrix, and Eric Clapton are playing them it's gotta tell you something.

However, not all Fender Stratocaster's are the same. Like anything, you get what you pay for. If you are in the market to buy a Fender, I suggest you listen to a bit of my advice before you decide to make a impulse purchase.

Why should you listen to me?

Well, first of all I used to be a guitar salesman at a guitar shop in San Diego California. Also, I have owned a variety of Fender's and have direct experience with multiple strats.

There are basically 3 levels of Fender Strats. I'll break em down by starting with the best first.

1. The Good Old American Made Stratocaster

You can't beat the American made Stratocaster. The quality is superb, and can't be matched. However quality comes with a price. You can plan on paying about $450 and up for a "used" American Stratocaster. Newer one's are closer to a grand and on up. There is a huge difference between playing the US guitar and all the others. Simply put, the US made Fender's are King.

The weight on the US Strat is significantly heavier then the imports. The reason for this is becuase the body is typically made from Alder wood instead of some cheaper woods.

2. The Mexican Stratocaster

If you don't have the cash to kick down for a US Strat, then your next best option is to get a Mexican Stratocaster. Hey, these babies rock!!! I've had multiple Mexican Strats and they are great.

You can pick up a used Mexican Strat for about $250-$375. While it's not quite as good as the US version, it is a phenomenal guitar.

3. The Chinese Ax

Last and least is the Chinese Stratocaster. You can pick these up for about $125, give or take a few bucks. When buying a Chinese guitar, remember that you get what you pay for. Now I'm not saying the guitar won't work, or even that it sucks. However, I am saying that the Chinese model is nowhere close to the quality of the Mexican Strat or the USA model.

Unless you really want the bottom of the line Fender, or are strapped on cash, I strongly encourage you to search for at least the Mexican model when purchasing a Fender. Of course the US Stratocaster is the ultimate, but sometimes that is not a reality for everyone.

My advice, go with the Mexican Strat, it rocks!!!!!! ....and affordable too.

About the Author

August Anderson (AKA Augmented Auggie) has been helping kids to play guitar for many years. Auggie feels music is a passion that should be shared with the world.

Please visit Auggie's blog and show your support for this starving artists...Peace Auggie's Heavenly Guitars

Source: GoArticles.com