Gearank

Gearank High Notes

• 2021.05: Highest Rated Mixed-Pickup HSS Solidbody Electric Guitar Under $500.

Gearank Recommendation

Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster (HSS) Model #: 0370700564 Laurel Fingerboard appeared on our recommended list for Mixed Pickup Equipped Solidbody Electric Guitars Under $500 in May 2021 in the #1 ranked position.

Unfortunately we have to remove it from the list in February 2022 due to a lack of availability.

Overview

The Affinity Stratocaster HSS is an affordable licensed Stratocaster with a humbucker in the bridge position, and distinct finish options that make it visually standout among similarly priced guitars.

Many manufacturers are switching to using poplar wood for the body of entry-level guitars, and this model is no exception.

The poplar body is paired with a maple neck topped by a 21-fret Indian Laurel fingerboard, with a narrow 1.598" nut width that many prefer.

Giving the guitar its voice are two singlecoil pickups for the neck and middle position, and a humbucker for the bridge position which allows this guitar to better handle high-gain tones in the bridge position.

Everything else about the guitar follows the expected Strat design.

Specifications

• Body: Poplar
• Finish: Montego Black Metallic, Olympic White, Race Green, Slick Silver
• Bridge: 6-Saddle Synchronized Tremolo
• Pickups: (HSS) 1 x Standard Humbucker, 2 x Standard Strat Single-coil
• Neck: Maple
• Scale Length: 25.5”
• Fingerboard: Indian Laurel
• Fingerboard Radius: 9.5”
• Frets: 21 Medium Jumbo
• Nut Width: 1.598”
• Controls: 1 x Volume, 2 x Tone
• Pickup Selector: 5-way Blade Switch

Demo