What pickup configuration does this model use?

This model uses an HSS configuration, consisting of one Alnico II humbucker in the bridge and two Alnico V single-coils in the neck and middle positions.

What are the benefits of the Player II fingerboard?

The Player II features a maple fingerboard with rolled edges, which provides a smoother feel and improved comfort when moving across the neck.

What neck profile does the Player II Stratocaster have?

It features a modern "C" shaped neck, designed to be comfortable for both lead and rhythm playing styles.

What type of tuners are installed on this guitar?

The guitar is equipped with Fender ClassicGear tuning machines, which combine vintage looks with modern gear ratios for stability.

How many pickup positions are available?

The guitar includes a 5-way blade switch, allowing for a variety of combinations between the humbucker and the two single-coil pickups.

What bridge system is used on the Player II Stratocaster?

It uses a 2-point synchronised tremolo bridge with bent steel saddles, designed for smooth vibrato action and reliable return to pitch.

What is the fingerboard radius?

The maple fingerboard has a 9.5-inch (241 mm) radius, which is a standard modern Fender specification for balanced playability.

What is the typical price for this model?

In the UK market, the typical price range for the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS is approximately GBP 739.

How does the bridge pickup differ from the others?

The bridge pickup is an Alnico II humbucker, which offers more output and a thicker, warmer sound compared to the Alnico V single-coils.

Is the neck finished in gloss or satin?

Fender typically uses a satin finish on the back of Player Series necks for a faster feel, though the maple fingerboard face may have a different treatment.

What makes the Aquatone Blue finish unique?

Aquatone Blue is a specific colour option for the Player II series, providing a modern aesthetic that complements the traditional Stratocaster shape.

How does this compare to the Squier Mini Stratocaster?

The Player II is a full-scale professional instrument with superior hardware and electronics, whereas the Squier Mini is a reduced-scale beginner guitar.

Gear article

Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS MN Aquatone Blue

The Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS is a versatile electric guitar that blends traditional design with modern playability enhancements. Featuring an HSS pickup configuration and a maple fingerboard with rolled edges, it is designed to offer a wide tonal palette suitable for various musical genres.

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Overview

The Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS in Aquatone Blue represents the evolution of Fender's core Mexican-made line, replacing the original Player Series. It maintains the classic Stratocaster silhouette while introducing refinements aimed at contemporary players. The guitar features a maple fingerboard (MN) and a specific pickup arrangement that includes both single-coils and a humbucker, offering a compromise between vintage clarity and modern power.

Design and Construction

Constructed with a focus on ergonomics, the Player II Stratocaster utilises a modern "C" shaped neck profile. A notable upgrade in this generation is the inclusion of rolled fingerboard edges on the 9.5-inch radius maple board, which enhances comfort during long playing sessions. The guitar is equipped with a 2-point synchronised tremolo system for smooth vibrato and Fender ClassicGear tuning machines to provide traditional aesthetics with reliable tuning stability.

Electronics and Tonal Character

The HSS configuration is the defining electronic feature of this model. It employs two Player Series Alnico V single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions for crisp, articulate highs. The bridge position is occupied by a Player Series Alnico II humbucker, designed to deliver robust lows and a higher output for aggressive lead playing. A 5-way blade switch allows players to toggle through these varied textures, from smooth rhythm tones to high-gain bridge settings.

Suitability and Comparisons

This model is positioned as a versatile workhorse for guitarists who require more bridge-position power than a traditional SSS (Triple Single-Coil) Stratocaster provides. Compared to the American Professional II Stratocaster, the Player II offers a more accessible price point while retaining professional-grade hardware. For players seeking a heavier sound, it provides a middle ground between a standard Fender and humbucker-heavy models like the Jim Root Telecaster or Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s.

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Frequently asked questions

What pickup configuration does this model use?: This model uses an HSS configuration, consisting of one Alnico II humbucker in the bridge and two Alnico V single-coils in the neck and middle positions.
What are the benefits of the Player II fingerboard?: The Player II features a maple fingerboard with rolled edges, which provides a smoother feel and improved comfort when moving across the neck.
What neck profile does the Player II Stratocaster have?: It features a modern "C" shaped neck, designed to be comfortable for both lead and rhythm playing styles.
What type of tuners are installed on this guitar?: The guitar is equipped with Fender ClassicGear tuning machines, which combine vintage looks with modern gear ratios for stability.
How many pickup positions are available?: The guitar includes a 5-way blade switch, allowing for a variety of combinations between the humbucker and the two single-coil pickups.
What bridge system is used on the Player II Stratocaster?: It uses a 2-point synchronised tremolo bridge with bent steel saddles, designed for smooth vibrato action and reliable return to pitch.
What is the fingerboard radius?: The maple fingerboard has a 9.5-inch (241 mm) radius, which is a standard modern Fender specification for balanced playability.
What is the typical price for this model?: In the UK market, the typical price range for the Fender Player II Stratocaster HSS is approximately GBP 739.
How does the bridge pickup differ from the others?: The bridge pickup is an Alnico II humbucker, which offers more output and a thicker, warmer sound compared to the Alnico V single-coils.
Is the neck finished in gloss or satin?: Fender typically uses a satin finish on the back of Player Series necks for a faster feel, though the maple fingerboard face may have a different treatment.
What makes the Aquatone Blue finish unique?: Aquatone Blue is a specific colour option for the Player II series, providing a modern aesthetic that complements the traditional Stratocaster shape.
How does this compare to the Squier Mini Stratocaster?: The Player II is a full-scale professional instrument with superior hardware and electronics, whereas the Squier Mini is a reduced-scale beginner guitar.