The limited-edition offering is quite something, boasting a Strat body, flipped Tele headstock, an HSS configuration and a gorgeous Ocean Turquoise Metallic colorway
But for its latest release – a new version of its Hybrid II Stratocaster – the brand has totally flipped the script. Literally.
Meet the limited-run Fender Hybrid II Strat HSS, which, for all intents and purposes, could be Fender Japan’s best release yet. Why? Well, just look at it.
Eagle-eyed Fender fans will no doubt be immediately drawn to the reversed Telecaster headstock, which has been paired with a Stratocaster body. Now, reverse Strat headstocks are nothing new, but a flipped Tele ’stock on a Strat model? It might just be the first time such a pairing has been offered on a factory instrument.
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But this beast’s beauty goes beyond its hybrid Strat-Tele DNA. Elsewhere, the Hybrid II comes equipped with a luxurious Ocean Turquoise Metallic finish and three-ply tortoise shell pickguard, which in turn accommodates an HSS pickup configuration. It's a combination of colors and components that makes it an especially aesthetically pleasing instrument.
The pickup configuration comprises a Modern Modified humbucker Type I and a duo of Hybrid II Custom Voiced single-coils. These are controlled by way of a five-way switch, master volume control and two tone parameters.
At its core the six-string is a standard Strat, featuring an alder body, modern C-shape maple neck, a 22-fret, 9.5”-radius maple fingerboard, as well as a 25.5” scale length and bone nut.
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As for hardware, there’s a two-point synchronized tremolo with vintage-style saddles, vintage locking tuners and a four-bolt neck plate. To be honest, we were sold by the headstock alone.
It’s a tough call, but that headstock/body pairing just about gives it the edge for us.
Unfortunately, the Hybrid II HSS is only available from Fender Japan’s online store or its Miki Gakki Americamura megastore for ¥148,500 (approx $1,158). Come on, bring it to the US, Fender…
Matt is a Senior Staff Writer, writing for Guitar World, Guitarist and Total Guitar. He has a Masters in the guitar, a degree in history, and has spent the last 16 years playing everything from blues and jazz to indie and pop. When he’s not combining his passion for writing and music during his day job, Matt records for a number of UK-based bands and songwriters as a session musician.