The idea behind Fender’s new Extremely Luxe Classic sequence is straightforward however efficient – planks for guitarists who need trendy options and playability in a Strat (or Tele) that appears pre-CBS.

The ’60s Stratocaster HSS is one thing of an electrical wolf in sheep’s clothes. Feeling and looking like a Nineteen Sixties Strat hot-rodded with Twenty first-century firepower, our tester was dressed within the fabled Fiesta Purple topped with Fender’s Heirloom nitrocellulose lacquer sporting a semi-matte look – a welcome aid from hyper-glossy poly finishes. The Strat has an alder physique, maple neck, and 22-fret rosewood board (10″-14″ radius) with stainless-steel frets. Its aged-white pickup covers and knobs give a nod to classic specs.

Whereas the visuals say 1965, the Extremely Luxe is unquestionably a 2025 machine. Its pickups are Classic ’61 single-coils within the neck and center for traditional Strat midrange quack, however with a zebra-stripe Haymaker humbucker within the bridge. A button for the favored S1 circuit sits atop the Quantity knob, permitting you to separate the Haymaker into separate coils for immediate quack. One other up to date nod is the D-shaped neck, which is completely shred-able on your greatest legato, tapping, and blues licks; a tapered heel, locking tuners, and dependable vibrato bridge proceed the tech parade. Luminlay facet dots glow-in-the-dark after being uncovered to mild. Fender says 20 minutes ought to maintain them glowing the entire gig, and it completely works.

On the job, the Extremely Luxe HSS brings loads of cool tones. In band rehearsal, it sparkled; the pickups and alder physique mixed with the blazing neck lined every part from Stevie Ray quack to Iron Maiden HSS scream. Conversely, the guitar logs in at 8.2 kilos – one thing to remember should you want the Strat’s customary mild weight.

All informed, the Extremely Luxe Classic ’60s Stratocaster HSS is a powerful solidbody, providing gamers that “trendy inside classic” sound and performance many want. It’s a significantly spectacular instrument. – Pete Prown

This text initially appeared in VG’s November 2025 challenge. All copyrights are by the creator and Classic Guitar journal. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.