The Fender Player Stratocaster HSS Plus Top checks a lot of boxes, especially if you want that classic Fender name on the headstock without blowing the budget. This one’s made in Mexico, and honestly, that’s not a bad thing at all. Fender’s been doing MIM guitars really well for a long time now.
I personally stay away from playing the bridge on a Stratocaster but the HSS pickup changes that for me. You get the familiar Strat sparkle from the single coils, but the humbucker in the bridge gives you a little more muscle when you need it. It’s a great setup if you want one guitar that can cover a lot of ground without overthinking it.
Playability is solid right out of the case. The modern C-shaped neck feels familiar, the maple fingerboard keeps things snappy, and the 9.5-inch radius makes it comfortable whether you’re playing chords or stretching out for lead lines. The two-point trem stays smooth and usable, and the guitar feels balanced sitting or standing.
The Plus Top is the real stand out in my opinion. The flame maple veneer paired with the Sienna Sunburst is just gorgeous paired with the maple neck. Made me give this a double take just on looks alone.
Is it a Custom Shop Strat? No… not even close. This is a great entry-level Fender if budget is a priority and you want something playable and undeniably Strat. It’s the kind of guitar you can grow with, mod if you want, or just leave stock and play the hell out of.
If you’re chasing that classic Fender feel and sound, and you want the name on the headstock without the premium price tag, the Player Strat is a solid place to start.