Gear article

Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS RW Sunshine Yellow

The Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS is an upgraded iteration of Fender's popular Player series, designed for contemporary playability and tonal versatility. It features a distinctive Sunshine Yellow finish, a rosewood fingerboard with rolled edges, and a flexible HSS pickup configuration including Noiseless single-coils.

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Overview

The Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS represents an evolution of Fender’s entry-level professional line, incorporating several premium hardware upgrades as standard. This specific model is distinguished by its 'Sunshine Yellow' aesthetic and 'Modified' electronics package. Built around a traditional alder body, the instrument is designed to provide the classic 'Fender punch' while offering modern ergonomic improvements for the player.

Construction and Playability

Central to the guitar's design is a maple neck with a Modern "C" profile, finished in satin for a smooth, non-sticky feel during performance. The rosewood fingerboard features rolled edges, a feature typically found on higher-priced American models to enhance hand comfort. The hardware includes short-post locking tuners for improved tuning stability and rapid string changes, alongside a 2-point tremolo system equipped with block steel saddles.

Electronics and Sound

The 'Modified' designation refers largely to the upgraded electronics suite. The bridge position is occupied by a Player II Modified humbucker designed for powerful, articulate high-gain tones. This is paired with two Noiseless Stratocaster pickups in the neck and middle positions, which provide the traditional chime and clarity associated with the Stratocaster without the inherent 60-cycle hum found in vintage designs. A push/pull tone control allows for coil-splitting the bridge humbucker, enabling the user to access thinner, vintage-style single-coil sounds.

Market Position and Alternatives

With a typical price point of approximately £919, the Player II Modified sits between the standard Player II series and the American Professional II series. It offers a middle ground for players who require professional-grade hardware and noise-free electronics without the cost of US-made instruments. Alternatives within the Fender family include the Eric Clapton Stratocaster for those seeking active mid-boost circuits, or the American Professional II for players who prefer the Roasted Pine body option. For high-output requirements, the Jim Root Telecaster offers a different body style, while the Squier Mini Stratocaster remains a compact alternative for smaller players.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body material of this Stratocaster?
The body is constructed from alder, a classic tonewood known for delivering the signature Fender punch and balanced frequency response.
What pickups are installed in the neck and middle positions?
These positions feature Fender Noiseless Strat pickups, which are designed to deliver crisp, clear Stratocaster tones without the unwanted background hum.
Can the bridge humbucker be used as a single-coil?
Yes, the guitar includes a push/pull tone control that splits the Player II Modified humbucker to provide vintage single-coil sounds.
What type of tuners are used on this model?
It is equipped with short-post locking tuners, which facilitate quicker string changes and significantly improve tuning stability.
What is unique about the fingerboard edges?
The rosewood fingerboard features rolled edges, which provides a broken-in feel and enhanced comfort for the player's fretting hand.
What neck profile does the Player II Modified Stratocaster have?
The guitar features a Modern "C" maple neck with a satin finish, designed for effortless playability and comfort across various styles.
What bridge system is utilized?
The guitar uses a 2-point synchronised tremolo system featuring block steel saddles for enhanced resonance and stability.
In what color is this specific model finished?
This specific model features a striking Sunshine Yellow finish.
What is the price range for this guitar?
The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 919.
Does this model differ from the standard Player II Stratocaster?
Yes, the 'Modified' version includes premium upgrades such as Noiseless pickups, locking tuners, and a humbucker with coil-splitting capabilities.
Who is this guitar best suited for?
It is designed for versatile players who need to cover a wide range of genres, from high-gain rock via the humbucker to clean, noise-free single-coil tones.
Is the fingerboard wood rosewood or maple?
This specific model features a rosewood (RW) fingerboard.