I went to GC today to look at Classic Vibe Squier strats, but I decided to look at the Fender MIM strats as well. They had 2009 as well as last years model. Comparing the 2009 and 2007/08, I could see and feel a difference in the fretboard. The tinting on the maple fingerboards looks much better in my opinion. Also, I don't know if it's because they're newer and haven't been exposed to humidity or lack thereof, but they feel a lot better too. Every 09 I tried felt REALLY nice.

I don't have the specs from last year, but is there much difference in the hardware? I'm considering a MIM instead now!

Generally speaking, I've noticed better sounding pickups and hardware on the MIM standards.

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Being able to play and enjoy music is a gift that's often taken for granted.

Don't leave home without it!

Hello Andyreich,

Well I did a bit of a comparison
a few weeks back and the new 09's
to me seem a bit more attractive &
in my opinion sounded ----thicker?

So if cash is not a variable I'd get the 09.
but for about $150 less expensive, I
gotta say the 08's appear to be a real
good value.

Play both if you can,
Buy one & post pics.

Cheers.

I think they are nice, Tinted necks feel very solid ... pickups are actually good... I dont know if better than older models because I never owned a standard strat before but the new 09 ones sound really good in clean and with distortion too....

I think the only difference was the neck tint and the parchment guard and knobs. Oh yea the Logo change. Other then that the same rigs.

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You're right CV. I like the 09 logo better. Get either one you like though as both are nice!

i agree with you dude

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Squire Strat
Jasmine Takamine
Cherry Red American Standard Strat

Thanks guys! I went with the 09. MF/GC had a price drop and I jumped on it today. I got Black/Maple/HSS and I love it!