Your First Real Stratocaster
There's something about plugging into a guitar that says "Fender" on the headstock. It's the sound you've heard on countless records, the shape that defined what an electric guitar looks like. The Standard Stratocaster puts that experience within reach, with the contoured double-cutaway body, three single-coil pickups, and tremolo bridge that made the Strat an icon back in 1954—now built to an accessible price point without cutting the corners that matter.
This Candy Cola model pairs a poplar body with a gloss polyurethane finish in a rich, eye-catching red. The maple neck has a Modern C profile with a satin urethane finish that feels smooth and fast under your hand, while the 9.5-inch radius maple fingerboard with 21 medium jumbo frets strikes a comfortable balance for both chord work and string bending. You get Fender Standard ceramic single-coil pickups—three of them—wired to a five-position blade switch that gives you everything from the snap of the bridge pickup to the warmth of the neck position, plus those classic in-between quack tones that Strats are famous for.
Whether you're just starting out or looking for a reliable Strat that won't break the bank, the Standard Stratocaster delivers. It's made in Indonesia, part of the same manufacturing network that produces quality instruments for many respected brands, and it's designed for players who want authentic Fender features at a fraction of the price of higher-tier models.
Modern Playability, Classic Design
The Modern C-shaped neck on this Standard Stratocaster is designed to fit comfortably in most hands. It's not too chunky, not too thin—just right for moving quickly across the fretboard whether you're playing open chords or working your way up to the higher frets. The satin urethane finish on the back of the neck keeps things smooth and fast, while the gloss-finished headstock face adds a touch of traditional Fender style. At 25.5 inches, the scale length is classic Stratocaster—long enough to give you that signature Fender snap and clarity.
The 9.5-inch radius fingerboard represents a modern evolution of the vintage 7.25-inch radius found on earlier Strats. It's flat enough to make bending easier and reduce fret-out during aggressive playing, but still curved enough to feel natural for chord shapes. The 21 medium jumbo frets give you enough real estate for comfortable fretting and smooth bends. The nut is made from Micarta, a durable synthetic material, and measures 1.6875 inches wide—standard Strat width that accommodates most playing styles.
The bolt-on neck construction is pure Stratocaster tradition, with a four-bolt neck plate providing solid attachment to the body. This design has been a Fender hallmark since day one, and it contributes to the bright, articulate tone that Strats are known for.
Three Pickups, Endless Tone
The three Fender Standard ceramic single-coil pickups deliver high-output Stratocaster tone with clarity and bite. Ceramic magnets offer a more aggressive character compared to Alnico pickups, with enhanced output that holds up well when you dig in. The bridge pickup gives you cutting treble and presence for leads and driving rhythms. The middle pickup adds body and warmth, and the neck pickup delivers smooth, rounded tones perfect for jazzy phrases or bluesy licks.
The real magic happens with the five-position blade switch. Position one gives you the bridge pickup alone—bright and biting. Position two combines the bridge and middle for that iconic Strat quack. Position three is the middle pickup solo—balanced and clear. Position four blends the middle and neck for a warm, hum-canceling tone. Position five is the neck pickup by itself—thick and smooth. You also get master volume, tone control for the neck and middle pickups, and a separate tone control for the bridge pickup, giving you plenty of tonal shaping options.
The electronics are housed under a three-ply white pickguard—classic Strat aesthetics that never go out of style. White pickup covers, knobs, and switch tip complete the traditional look.
Tremolo and Hardware
The standard two-point synchronized tremolo bridge with satin chrome steel block saddles provides smooth pitch modulation while maintaining tuning stability. This modern design uses two pivot points instead of the vintage six-screw setup, reducing friction and making the arm easier to use. You can add subtle shimmer to chords or more dramatic pitch dives, and the bridge returns to pitch reliably.
Fender Standard cast and sealed tuning machines with hex buttons handle the tuning duties. They're not boutique tuners, but they're functional and stable for everyday playing. Chrome hardware throughout keeps the look clean and classic. The guitar ships strung with nickel-plated steel strings in .009-.042 gauges—a light set that's easy to bend and great for beginners while still offering enough tension for experienced players.
Product Features:
- Poplar body with gloss polyurethane finish in Candy Cola
- Maple neck with Modern C profile and satin urethane finish
- Maple fingerboard with 9.5-inch radius and 21 medium jumbo frets
- Three Fender Standard ceramic single-coil Stratocaster pickups
- Five-position blade pickup selector switch
- Two-point synchronized tremolo bridge with satin chrome saddles
- 25.5-inch scale length
- 1.6875-inch nut width with Micarta nut material
- Fender Standard cast/sealed tuning machines with chrome hardware
- Three-ply white pickguard with white pickup covers and knobs
Brand: Fender
Model: Standard Stratocaster
SKU: 0266220571
Condition: New
Since 1872, C.A. House Music has been helping musicians across the Ohio Valley find the right gear -- with real advice from a team that actually plays. We're your authorized dealer of all the big names in guitars, keyboards, band instruments, drums, pro audio, and more. With four family-owned and operated locations in Ohio and West Virginia (plus a full online store), you don't have to go far for instruments, lessons, rentals, and repairs. No matter your musical needs, our team of musicians wants to help you Play Music for Life.
