WTB - Budget Strat

bobacco

So, this is an interesting one. I’ve put a few partscasters together in my time, and my buddy who plays a little (but purely as a very occasional hobby) fancies me putting something together for him. Frankly; I’m keen to!

However, before I embark on a parts rush, has anyone got anything Stratty for £300? He’s basically just wanting to wang about to some Gilmour / Clapton-esque backing tracks once in a while, so doesn’t have to be anything particularly special.

The convo started around the Jet / Harley Benton sorts that are available - I said that with the right upgrades, they can be giggable, legit instruments. So he pretty much set me the challenge!

If anyone has anything remotely fitting the bill, give me a shout. Whether it’s a basis for upgrading, an already put together partscaster, or a decent Squier or Mexi Fender (appreciate that’s ambitious, but could potentially move on price a bit if it ticks all the boxes), let me know!

Brands are unimportant really, but ideally:

• Blue / Green (anything but red or sunburst considered though!)
• Maple fretboard
• SSS (but HSS not fully ruled out - just the Clapton / Gilmour style favours SSS)

Even if you don’t have anything yourself, the wealth of knowledge is hugely appreciated if you’ve got recommendations. 

Thanks!

YellowLedBetterMan

I have a Squier Classic Vibe 60s Strat on the classifieds here. It's sunburst though, but it's a great guitar.

bobacco

Ah yeah, I’ve seen that. I like it, but sadly a couple of things my mate doesn’t!

swiller

https://www.thefretboard.co.uk/discussion/228241/ngd-korean-squire-1989-s90-serial#latest
Half way down/up, august 2022 post. 
Spent about 300 in all on this one using a tech to do the work.
Great cheap modding platforms. 1989 korean squier strats. Look for e9/s9 serial numbers, or even better e7. necks are superb and heavy (laminate body). V resonant, thick tone whatever you put in them.
Or yours for 250. Wynne jenkins did the work, highly regarded tech in south wales.   Pics of the work in the link^^.
In wales so prob not doable, but this series well worth a look if you want a very good cheap modding platform. > classic vibes all day. Bargains.

bobacco

Definitely one to ponder, looks great! And thank you for the advice.