2004 Fender American Stratocaster HSS 3-Color Sunburst

The Altitude Summary

For a 20 year old guitar, this guitar is in excellent shape and has minimal wear.  Some minor dings on the backside bottom (pictured) in addition to minor surface scratching, but otherwise this guitar is quite preserved.  The HSS configuration coupled with the S-1 switching system gives the player 10 different pickup combinations which gives this guitar serious gig-ability.  Comes with an original Fender tweed case; we are not sure what this originally came with, but the period-correct tweed case is in great condition aside from some small tears at the leather corners (pictured).

A Stratocaster's Journey Through Time

Preservation and Performance: Showcasing a remarkable example of craftsmanship and resilience, this Stratocaster has gracefully aged over two decades, bearing only minor signs of its journey. With barely noticeable wear on the lower frets and a few discreet dings on its underside, the guitar's vintage allure is intact, complemented by modern tweaks. The inclusion of contemporary bridge saddles/2-point tremolo system and a comfortable C-shaped neck profile marries the best of both eras, ensuring a seamless playing experience through the HSS pickup configuration.

Authenticity and Milestone Celebration: Retaining all its original components, this instrument not only stands as a testament to its era but also tips the scales at a comfortable 7.8 pounds, offering a balanced feel. The year of manufacture holds historical significance, marking the 50th anniversary of the Stratocaster's debut in 1954, a nod to its enduring legacy.

Innovative Tonal Exploration: At the heart of this Stratocaster lies the S-1 switching system, a revolutionary feature that expands its tonal range with 10 unique pickup combinations. This versatility is a tribute to Fender's vision of sonic excellence. The Diamondback humbucker at the bridge injects a dose of intensity and edge, while the custom-staggered Tex-Mex single coils in the neck and middle positions deliver the quintessential Stratocaster tone that resonates with enthusiasts worldwide.

Pickup Switching: 5-Position Blade and 2-Position Push/Push S-1TM:

S-1 Switch Up:

Position 1. Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series (Lead Tone Control)
Position 2. Middle Pickup and Inside Coil of Bridge Humbucking Pickup in Parallel (Lead Tone Control)
Position 3. Middle Pickup (Lead Tone Control)
Position 4. Neck and Middle Pickup in Parallel (Lead and Rhythm Tone Controls)
Position 5. Neck Pickup (Rhythm Tone Control

S-1 Switch Down:

Position 1. Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series (Lead Tone Control)
Position 2. Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series, in Parallel with Middle Pickup (Lead Tone Control)
Position 3. Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series, in Parallel with Neck and Middle Pickups that are Paired in Series (Lead and Rhythm Tone Controls)
Position 4. Inside Coil of Bridge Pickup Paired in Series with Neck Pickup, in Parallel with Middle Pickup (Lead and Rhythm Tone Controls)
Position 5. Middle Pickup in Series with Neck Pickup (Rhythm Tone Control)
Controls: Master Volume (with S-1TM Switch), 

Tone 1. (Neck and Middle Pickups), 
Tone 2. Tone Control (Bridge Pickup and Bridge/Middle Pickup Combination)