Fender Jimi Hendrix: Best Stratocaster for Rock Reviewed

by Joost Nusselder | Updated on:  January 20, 2023

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Rock musicians like to use Stratocaster guitars because they sound good. The Fender Jimi Hendrix is a great choice for rock music.

Hendrix is well-known for playing an Olympic White Stratocaster at the Woodstock Festival in 1969.

Rock musicians like to use Stratocaster guitars because they sound good. The Fender Jimi Hendrix is a great choice for rock music.

Hendrix is well-known for playing an Olympic White Stratocaster at the Woodstock Festival in 1969.

Best stratocaster for rock- Fender Jimi Hendrix Olympic White full

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Olympic White is an electric guitar model designed after legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix’s customized guitar. It features a unique design with a reverse headstock, reverse custom pickups, and a unique neck shape. It has a classic, timeless look that many popular rock guitarists have used on stage and in the studio.

Why go for the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is a top choice for rock and stands out from other Strats because it’s able to replicate Jimi’s iconic tone due to its reverse-mounted headstock.

Therefore, I have to argue that it’s the best Stratocaster for rockers of all ages.

In this detailed review, you can read all about the specifications, why this guitar is the best for rock, and how it compares to similar models.

Best stratocaster for rock

Fender Jimi Hendrix Olympic White

Product image
8.8
Tone score
Sound
4.5
Playability
4.5
Build
4.8
Best for
  • reverse headstock
  • unique playing experience
  • vintage rock tones
Falls short
  • harder to play than other Strats

Buying guide

Here are the main features to consider when buying a Stratocaster for rock.

Stratocasters are electric guitars that were first manufactured by Fender in 1954.

They are known for their iconic design, which includes a double-cutaway body shape, three single-coil pickups, and a tremolo bridge.

Stratocasters are one of the most popular electric guitars in the world, and they are used by a variety of genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and country.

Tonewood & sound

When it comes to tonewood, Fender Stratocasters are usually made with alder wood which is known for its bright and full sound.

The Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster features a two-piece Alder body with a three-ply white pickguard and Jimi’s famous reverse headstock.

This combination of tonewoods helps to achieve a vintage rock sound.

Tonewood can have a major impact on the overall sound of the guitar.

Alder is considered one of the best materials for a Stratocaster and its ability to produce bright tones makes it an excellent choice.

Compared to other tone woods like Mahogany and Basswood, Alder is known for providing a better sustain.

Additionally, it offers excellent resonance that helps accentuate the guitar’s natural sound.

Pickups

Usually, the Stratocaster has three single-coil pickups that are wired in the traditional SSS configuration.

This provides a bright and lively sound that’s perfect for playing blues and rock.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster features three tradition reverse-mount custom single-coil pickups.

They are more powerful than traditional Stratocaster pickups and provide a unique sound that is perfect for rock music.

The pickups are designed to provide vintage-style tones and will bring out the best in your playing style.

Bridge

The bridge is the anchor point of the strings and helps to define how the guitar will sound.

Fender Stratocasters usually feature a two-point synchronized tremolo bridge.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster features an American Vintage Synchronized Tremolo Bridge which offers an improved tuning stability and string sustains.

Best strings for electric guitar
Best strings for electric guitar

The tremolo bridge is often used in rock music as it allows you to perform expressive bends and vibrato techniques.

Neck

Most Stratocasters have a modern “C-shaped” neck profile that gives you a comfortable feel while playing.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster features a unique reverse headstock and reverse neck profile.

This allows players to play parts that are not possible on other Stratocasters.

The unique reverse neck profile offers a comfortable feel and makes it easier for players to reach the higher frets.

Fretboard

Most Fender fretboards are made of maple wood or rosewood. These two woods provide a bright and articulate sound.

Players prefer the rosewod fretboard as it offers a warmer and darker sound compared to the maple fretboard.

However, the maple is more durable and its bright sound makes it perfect for rock music.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster features a maple fretboard that is perfect for rock music.

Hardware & tuners

Cheaper Stratocasters usually have cheaper hardware and tuners.

However, the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is fitted with American Vintage Stratocaster tuning machines that provide excellent tuning stability and accuracy.

The best tuners to have on your Fender Stratocaster are the 6-in-line type.

The 6-in-line tuners provide the best tuning stability and accuracy which is especially important for rock music.

Playability

Finally, it’s important to consider how easy or hard a guitar is to play.

A guitar like this one with reverse headstocks and a C-shaped neck profile makes it easier to reach the higher frets.

Its comfortable feel and smooth playability make it an excellent instrument.

However, when you consider the overall playability of this guitar, it’s definitely harder to get used to playing than other Stratocasters.

Playability refers to how easy or hard it is to play the guitar.

It’s important to remember that even if a guitar looks and sounds great, if it’s too hard to play, it won’t be enjoyable.

What is the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster?

The Hendrix Stratocaster is not the first Stratocaster created in Jimi’s honor by Fender. Not even close to the instrument he used at Woodstock or Monterey, for example.

But it’s a more accessible Fender-quality guitar design for those looking for vintage sounds and playability.

This Mexican-made guitar uses a reverse headstock and a reverse-angle bridge pickup to provide the most accurate Jimi-like tones at a reasonable, sub-Custom Shop price.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is an electric guitar manufactured by Fender.

It’s modeled after the guitar Jimi Hendrix famously used in his performances and recordings.

Hendrix was a left-handed player who modified right-handed guitars to suit his needs, so the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is designed for both left and right-handed players.

Why the Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is the best guitar for rock

It has a unique look and sound, with a three-ply pickguard, reverse headstock, and custom pickups. Just one look at this guitar and you know it’s special.

Players prefer this Stratocaster for rock because it has a bright, aggressive sound that cuts through the mix.

This Stratocaster stands out from the other Fender Stratocasters like the American Professional, American Deluxe or Standard.

The reverse headstock and reverse neck profile make it easier to reach the higher frets, while the custom pickups provide a bright and articulate sound.

The maple fretboard also provides a brighter sound which is perfect for rock music.

It’s made of alder wood which I like because it has a balanced tone, with just the right amount of highs and lows.

This Strat has three single-coil pickups and a five-way switch, giving it a wide range of tones. It also has a tremolo bridge and a vintage-style synchronized tremolo.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is a good guitar for rock music because it is quite comfortable to play and the neck profile is perfect for bending and vibrato techniques.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is a great choice for any guitarist looking for a classic sound and style.

Its unique features make it stand out from other Stratocasters, and its sound is perfect for blues, rock, and funk.

It’s a great choice for any player who wants to capture the legendary sound of Jimi Hendrix, perhaps one of the most influential guitarists ever.

The neck is a comfortable ‘modern C’ shape, and the fretboard is made of rosewood, giving it a smooth feel.

The pickups are a set of three single-coil pickups, giving it a bright, snappy sound. The bridge is a vintage-style tremolo, allowing a wide range of sounds.

The guitar also has a five-way switch, allowing you to select different pickup combinations. The guitar is also lightweight, making it easy to carry around.

All in all, the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is a great guitar with some great features.

It’s got a unique look, a comfortable neck, great pickups, and a versatile tremolo bridge.

Specifications

  • type: solidbody
  • headstock: reverse with signature on rear
  • body wood: alder
  • neck: maple, bolt-on
  • fretboard: maple
  • pickups: American Vintage ’65 pickups with reverse-slant single-coil bridge pickup
  • neck profile: C-shape
  • 6-saddle vintage tremolo
  • scale length: 25.5″
  • number of frets: 21 medium jumbo
  • 9.5”-radius “C”-shaped maple neck with medium jumbo frets
  • String spread at nut: 42 mm/1.65”
  • String spacing at bridge: 10.5 mm/.41″

Best stratocaster for rock

FenderJimi Hendrix Olympic White

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster truly stands out from other Strats because it’s able to replicate Jimi’s iconic tone.

Product image

Unique tone & sound

If you’re looking for a Stratocaster guitar that will help you rock out, the Fender Jimi Hendrix model is a great choice.

Jimi’s famed distinctive tone is perfectly reproduced with the reverse-slanted headstock and ’65 American Vintage bridge pickup.

The guitar’s string-to-string volume is somewhat varied as a result of the flipped headstock, which produces the distinctive “Jimi sound.”

Overall, especially on the low end, you’re getting better sustain.

The guitar’s bright, rich sound is produced by the maple tone wood and neck.

Fun to play

This guitar, with its 21 large frets, is made for shredding. Those quick licks and solos come naturally to you.

There is a vintage-inspired tremolo system on the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster as well.

As a result, you can play with vibrato without having the guitar’s tuning be affected.

You can bend those strings as much as you want because the C-shaped neck makes the guitar comfortable to handle and play.

But the pickups really stand out since they have a lot of power while also being delicate enough to generate those subtle tones.

You may anticipate the pickups to sound vintage-accurate from a genuine Fender Stratocaster.

Additionally, the overall tonality is balanced, which makes this guitar ideal for rock guitarists.

It features the ideal clean tone that doesn’t go muddy when distorted. Jazz and the blues are just a couple of the genres this instrument can handle.

However, as was already noted, it is sufficiently adaptable for all musical genres and also works well with funky rhythms.

Excellent build

This guitar is noted for how well it’s made.

The craftsmanship from Fender is always something to be admired, and the Hendrix Stratocaster continues this trend.

The bridge has been designed for great intonation and improved tuning stability.

The control plate also features a special design to add some extra flair to your sound.

Unlike the cheaper Squier models, this one has real vintage-style tuners that keep the strings in tune.

The Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is also well-protected with a thick polyurethane finish that prevents it from nicks, scratches and other damage.

Overall, the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster is a great option if you want a guitar with the traditional Strat tone.

Disadvantages of the Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster

I have to tell you this guitar isn’t ideal for complete beginners – it’s kind of hard to play. The tuners are hard to reach for those with smaller hands.

Also, the neck is a bit thicker than usual, making it difficult to get used to if you are accustomed to the thinner necks.

Finally, since this guitar is made to re-create Jimi Hendrix’s sound, it may not be suitable for those looking for a more modern sound.

What others say about the Fender Stratocaster Jimi Hendrix guitar

The Fender Stratocaster Jimi Hendrix guitar has been praised for its vintage-style design, reverse headstock and custom neck plate.

It has also been said to be great for player of all genres, with its bright tone being perfect for rock and blues.

Premierguitar.com has this to say about the value of this guitar:

This is a very good Stratocaster for chasing the Hendrix sound. The American pickups sound authentically vintage, and if you factor their value alone into the $899 price, the Hendrix Stratocaster starts to look like a real bargain. 

If you were to create your own custom guitar with the reverse headstock it would set you back financially but you probably can’t get the same Fender quality.

Therefore, this guitar is a great option for those on a budget who want an authentic Fender sound and style.

The guys at musicradar.com are saying:

Fortunately, this guitar is a dream to play. The action is set low – with a set of 0.010 to 0.046 strings – yet there’s no danger of any buzzing or choking for those with a light touch. That said, the heavy-handed might want to crank the string height up a notch.

Thus you can get those rock and blues tones you’ve been searching for while also getting a comfortable playing experience.

Overall, the Fender Stratocaster Jimi Hendrix gets mostly positive reviews because it has more spank and twang than the other Strats.

Learn all about the man behind the brand: Leo Fender & What Guitar Models And Companies Was He Responsible For?

Who is the Fender Stratocaster Jimi Hendrix guitar not for?

This guitar is not for those looking for a modern sound.

It does not have the capability to produce metal or more modern musical genres, and its reverse headstock makes it difficult for some to adjust to.

Additionally, the price tag may be too expensive for those on a tight budget. This guitar is for those who are serious about capturing the authentic sound of Jimi Hendrix.

Also, this guitar is probably not ideal for beginners because it features the reverse headstock, which can make it difficult to play.

Experienced guitarists should have no problem adjusting to this unique feature.

Overall, the Fender Stratocaster Jimi Hendrix guitar is a great choice for those who are looking for an authentic sound and feel that captures the essence of Jimi Hendrix.

What is the history of Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster?

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster was first released in 1996, designed by Fender in collaboration with the Hendrix estate.

It was created to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Jimi Hendrix’s death and to celebrate his musical legacy.

Jimi Hendrix was left-handed but he would play right-handed guitars that he modified. He restrung the Strat and played it upside down.

The guitar was designed to replicate the style of the original Stratocaster that Hendrix used in the late 1960s.

It featured a reverse headstock, a rosewood fretboard, and a unique reverse-angle bridge pickup.

Since its initial release, the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster has become a popular choice among guitarists.

It’s been used by a variety of artists, from rock to jazz to blues.

Over the years, Fender has released several different versions of the guitar, including a left-handed model and a signature model.

The guitar has also been used in various genres, from rock to funk to metal.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster has also evolved over the years.

In recent years, Fender has released a variety of different models, including a seven-string version and a signature model. 

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster has become an iconic instrument, and its influence can be heard in the music of many different artists.

It’s a guitar that’s been used by some of the greatest musicians of all time, and it’s a testament to the legacy of Jimi Hendrix.

Alternatives

Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster vs Fender Standard Stratocaster

Ok, now let’s compare Fender’s Standard Stratocaster to the Jimi Hendrix model.

The Fender Standard Stratocaster is the classic version of the legendary guitar.

It features a maple neck with a maple or rosewood fretboard, three single-coil pickups, and a six-saddle bridge.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster also has a maple neck with a maple fretboard, three single-coil pickups, and a six-saddle bridge.

However, the main difference is in the headstock. The Jimi Hendrix model features a reverse headstock and an angled bridge pickup.

The difference between these two guitars is mostly in sound.

The Standard Stratocaster has a classic, twangy tone that many guitarists love. It’s a great choice for beginner and intermediate players.

In contrast, the Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster has a more unique, powerful sound.

It’s brighter and heavier than the Standard Stratocaster, and is best for more experienced players or those really looking to replicate Jimi’s iconic Woodstock sound.

In terms of the cost, they’re nearly the same price but the Standard has the classic Stratocaster design whereas the Jimi Hendrix model is funky with the reversed headstock look.

So, depending on your playing style and skill level, you can decide which guitar is the best for you.

Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster vs Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster

Here’s a comparison between a pricey Fender and a budget-friendly Squier. Now you might wonder why these two guitars are compared in the first place.

Well, some players claim the Squier Classic Vibe (reviewed here) has great tone and sound for rock music.

It has a vintage style and all the features of a standard Stratocaster, like three single-coil pickups and a six-saddle bridge.

Best overall beginner guitar

SquierClassic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster

I like the look of the vintage tuners and the tinted slim neck while the sound range of the Fender designed single coil pickups is really great.

Product image

You can probably use the Classic Vibe to play classic rock hits from the ’60s, ’70s and maybe even the early ’80s.

But in my opinion, these guitars are quite different – the playability is different and the whole look is different.

The Fender Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster has a reverse headstock, angled bridge pickup and an iconic style that’s one of a kind.

The Squier Classic Vibe is a budget-friendly guitar, and it’s not exactly the same as the Fender Jimi Hendrix model.

But if you’re looking for a more affordable guitar, the Squier Classic Vibe is definitely worth considering.

Comparing the Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster vs Squier Classic Vibe, the differences are even more pronounced.

The Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster has a reverse headstock, a unique neck shape, and a unique pickup configuration.

The Squier Classic Vibe, on the other hand, has a more traditional headstock, a C-shaped neck, and two single-coil pickups.

The Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster also has a unique tremolo bridge, while the Squier Classic Vibe has a vintage-style tremolo bridge.

Conclusion

If you’re all about that classic rock Jimi Hendrix sound, the Fender Stratocaster Jimi Hendrix guitar is the perfect choice for you.

It comes with all of the features that made Jimi’s Strat famous, including the reverse headstock and the unique reverse-angle bridge pickup.

It also comes with a price tag that won’t break the bank.

Although this isn’t a good beginner guitar, experienced guitarists should have no problem adjusting to this unique instrument and you’ll love how fun it is to play!

Looking for a Stratocaster that works well for metal? Or the best Stratocaster of all time? I’ve reviewed the ultimate top 10 Stratocasters here

I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Neaera and a content marketer, dad, and love trying out new equipment with guitar at the heart of my passion, and together with my team, I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2020 to help loyal readers with recording and guitar tips.

Check me out on Youtube where I try out all of this gear:

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