I played a Classic Series 60s Strat at my local GC and really liked it. I'll probably buy it but I realized their is also a Classic Player 60s Strat as well. I realize both are MIM Strats but what is the main difference. I would guess based on appearance that both are based on pre-CBS Strats. Any thoughts on these guitars?

The Classic Player's model uses the modern 2-point trem and 9.5" fretboard radius. The Classic '60s model has specs and bridge similar to a pre-CBS rosewood model (just as its name implies).

Arjay

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"Here's why reliability is job one: A great sounding amp that breaks down goes from being a favorite piece of gear to a useless piece of crap in less time than it takes to read this sentence." -- BRUCE ZINKY

Classic player 60 is Custom Shop designed and has 62/57 pick ups.

The classic player series is also designed by the Fender Custom Shop I own 2 classic series 60's strats, and they are SWEEEEEEEEET!!!! I modded one with Texas Specials and it is a smoking axe now! I for one, love the vintage 7.5'' radius on the classic series necks. But I also don't mind the modern 9.5". If you liked the classic series neck, go for it. The classic player will feel like a modern MIM standard or AM standard strat. The classic series sticks closer to the vintage specs if that's what you're after. The classic players cost more too.

Howdy!

The Classic Players 60's Strat comes with Custom 69 pickups which are about as "Spanky" as strat pups get! Its also comes with a 12" Radius Rosewood board.

Here's a link to the Fender Classic Players 60's Stratocaster Spec.

Here's a pic of mine...





I rate the CP60's Strat's very highly. Great Spec for the money. I did however make the following modifications...

I slightly rolled the fretboard edges...



The above pic shows the difference between the 9th and 10th frets. I also added the lower tone control to the Bridge pup. (Before & After pic's below)



I haven't had a go on a Classic Series Strat so can't comment on that.

Hope this helps

Andy

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Pending Greatness

Thanks for all your answers and the photos. For me I think the Classic series will be the one.

Don't count out the Classic Player 60's strat just yet! I have several strats, and recently acquired a 2010 Classic Player 60's, and I LOVE IT! The first thing....the neck shape is heavenly. Second, the flat 12" radius (NOT 9.5 like mentioned earlier) is super fun to play. More room to bend the crap outta those really deep down bluesy notes. Also...the CS 69 pickups are awesome. When I play them, I get a really responsive, punchy SRV-type response out of them. Very clear and they really make each note sing. Also, the bigger frets make bends easier. Not to mention the Sonic Blue color has to be seen to be appreciated (the sunburst is nice too, but Sonic Blue has really grown on me). I'd really try a Classic Player 60's. It may really surprise you. This guitar is one of Fender's finer strats that is worth well more than its sticker price.

Here's mine:

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'10 Fender Classic Player 60's Strat
'04 Fender Std Strat w/ vintage Noiseless pickups
'98 Fender US Strat
'95 Fender Std Strat w/ dual HB's
'09 Gibson Les Paul Std
'10 Fender Blues Jr. NOS
'98 Peavey 5150
'04 Fender Hot Rod Deville
'10 Fender Mustang I

Andy...how did you roll your fretboard edges?

Very nice strats
Custom all the way.

Aliens told me how to do it!

Its very nicely detailed in the link below (great thread that one! Well worth a read)

Rolling Fretboard Edges - The Martian Method

My one piece of advice would be to practice on a spare neck before starting on your No.1 guitar. I rolled two of my spare practice necks (for fret work etc) before my CP60's.

Andy

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Pending Greatness

The Classic Player 60s in Sonic Blue is my favorite strat in production MIM or USA