I am a rookie looking to purchasing a Strat & have narrowed down to either the Standard HSS or the Deluxe HSS. Saw one (Montego Black) that has a metal guide "bridge" at the top of the fret board at the head that I haven't seen on any other models or described as an option on any of the Fender descriptions.
Does anyone know what this is? It does not appear to be on all Deluxe models. Is it a good feature for keeping the strings in tune?
This model seemed to have the best feel of anything I looked at but it cost about twice.
Would appreciate anty feedback.
Thanks
HalS430

I think you're looking at the LSR roller nut. It's supposed to help the strings return to a in-tune state when using the tremolo.

Thanks. I subsequently found the description as the LSR roller nut on the tech specs.
Any advice on a deluxe Fat Strat HSS ($699/ without the LSR & locking tuning machines) compared to an American Deluxe ($1080 with LSR & locking tuners)

Also what are the primary differences between the Standard & the Deluxe models?

The tuning pegs on the DLX are Fender licensed Schaller Locking Tuners, both employ a two point fulcrum tremolo but the DLX has chrome plated cast saddles where the STD used stamped saddles. Tremolo arm on the DLX is solid steel with no plastic tip like the STD. DLX has Hot Samarium Cobalt Noiseless Pickups on the neck and middle and a DH-1 Humbucking pup on the bridge, the STD has Tex Mex SCs (not noiseless) and a Diamond Back HB on the bridge. The DLX features S-1 switching which allows you to dial in 10 different pickup combinations. The DLX has a a fancier pickguard and abalone dot inlays.

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"If I don't see you no more in this world I'll meet you on the next one and don't be late... don't be late." -Jimi Hendrix

If it won't put you in the hole, go for the American Deluxe. It's the closest you can get to a custom shop guitar for a good bit less cash. The fingerboard also has rolled edges that help it feel a little more broken in than a brand new guitar and the extra money isn't much for all the added features you get.

PS: I love mine.

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60th Anniversary AD Strat, Deluxe Nashville Tele, Player's P Bass. Mesa/Boogie Mk IV combo, Marshall JCM800, 1960A cab, Genz Benz El Diablo 60, Genz 2x12" cab, too many neat little practice amps and kit projects!

I have to agree with Joelski. Even though the DLX costs more, I believe that the additional features outweighs the difference. The American DLX series is about the best you can get without going into a Signature, Reissue or Custom Shop which are all awesome but not all people make enough to justify such an expense. I love my DLX! She's the cream colored (Vintage White) Strat in my flashing banner below.

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"If I don't see you no more in this world I'll meet you on the next one and don't be late... don't be late." -Jimi Hendrix