Squier Affinity Stratocaster Review – Introduction
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster HSS is a popular choice for guitarists seeking an affordable yet reliable electric guitar. Having played this model extensively, I can provide a detailed account of its pros and cons, focusing on build quality, sound, playability, and overall value. This review is based on my personal experience with a 2019 HSS model, purchased in excellent condition.
Build Quality
Pros:
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster boasts a solid build quality for its price range. The poplar body is lightweight yet durable, and the maple neck with a “C” shape profile feels comfortable in hand. The Indian laurel fretboard adds a nice touch, offering smooth playability. The sealed die-cast tuners and synthetic bone nut contribute to the guitar’s overall reliability, ensuring stable tuning and intonation.
Cons:
Quality control on construction and build quality is a notable issue with Squier guitars. New models can sometimes suffer from fret sprout or sharp frets, making them uncomfortable to play. These issues are usually fixable, but they can be a hassle, especially for beginners. Additionally, the thinner body of the Affinity Stratocaster compared to a standard Fender Stratocaster can make finding compatible replacement parts challenging, particularly for the tremolo system.
If you are looking for the best guitar for beginners, check out our top 10 list.
Sound
Pros:
The HSS configuration (Humbucker-Single-Single) provides a versatile range of tones. The bridge humbucker delivers a punchy, powerful sound suitable for rock and heavier genres, while the single-coil pickups in the middle and neck positions offer classic Stratocaster tones—bright, clear, and articulate. This versatility makes the Affinity Stratocaster suitable for various music styles, from blues and jazz to rock and pop.
Cons:
The stock ceramic pickups, while decent, may lack the depth and warmth found in higher-end models. They perform well for the price but might not satisfy players seeking a richer, more nuanced sound. Upgrading the pickups is a common modification for those looking to enhance the guitar’s tonal quality.
Playability
Pros:
The Affinity Stratocaster excels in playability. The neck’s satin finish allows for smooth hand movement, making it easy to execute fast runs and complex chord changes. The 9.5-inch fretboard radius strikes a balance between comfort and versatility, catering to both rhythm and lead playing. The overall setup out of the box is generally good, requiring minimal adjustments for most players. Just to add… you can also get a Telecaster shape in the Squire series.
Cons:
As mentioned earlier, the quality control issues can affect playability. High frets and the need for a truss rod adjustment are not uncommon in new models. While these issues are fixable, they can be frustrating for beginners who may not have the skills or tools to perform these adjustments. Learning basic guitar setup skills can be beneficial for addressing these common issues.
Overall Value
Pros:
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster offers excellent value for money. It provides the iconic Stratocaster look and feel at a fraction of the cost of a Fender model. With its solid build, versatile sound, and comfortable playability, it is an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate players. The wide range of color options, including some unique to specific retailers, adds to its appeal.
Cons:
While the Affinity Stratocaster is a great budget guitar, it may not meet the needs of more advanced players or those seeking a more premium instrument. The stock components, such as the pickups and tuners, are adequate but may benefit from upgrades. Additionally, the prevalence of these guitars means they are not particularly unique, which may be a drawback for players looking for a more distinctive instrument.
Conclusion
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster HSS is a solid choice for anyone seeking an affordable, versatile electric guitar. Its build quality, sound, and playability make it suitable for a wide range of players, from beginners to more experienced guitarists looking for a reliable backup instrument. While there are some quality control issues to be aware of, these are typically minor and easily fixable. Overall, the Affinity Stratocaster represents excellent value and a worthy investment for those looking to experience the classic Stratocaster vibe without breaking the bank.
