I've convinced myself that I'm going to stop buying $300 guitars and buy one really nice one. does anybody know of a site or database that lists the differences between all the strat models. From what I can see there is the 50's, 60's, highway one, Nashville, Amercian standard, American deluxe, and then the sig models. I know they all vary in price, but I'm trying to figure out the difference in quality, pickups, and how much they vary in tone. For example is the Highway One that much different from an american standard to justify the price?

Yes, it's called Fender.com.

Check it out sometime.

This is the most comprehensive site for current fender models. Aside from searching youtube for demo's of models that interest you i cant think of any way to find soundclips. That in itself though is very speculative and sound will be greatly influenced by different players and recording techniques. You may find your better off to search for them in your locality and try em out for yourself. I whole heartedly agree with your decision of shelling out for a great guitar, You could well find it works out cheaper in the longrun. Personaly for a all singing/dancing strat you wont beat a american deluxe. For a strat thats 'just a strat' the vintage reissue are the best things outside of the custom shop. Needless to say you need to try before buy on such purchases, particularly with the vintage reissue's. They vary quite a bit in tone and feel.

_________________
No no and no