This strat ticks all of my boxes- Modern neck profile, modern electronics but vintage/old school tone. This has a bit more bite in the high mid range as compared to the Fender American Std Stratocasters, which is perfect for modern guitar players (more versatile). The roasted maple neck is smoother than most of the Fenders I have played. The fretboard is really comfortable for playing. Locking tuners are great. The bridge and middle pickup are a bit dark and has more bite as compared to most american fenders. Overall its a great buy for the price. Until and unless you are stuck on the traditional fender sound, you should consider this, the quality is no less than an american strat in terms of everything. The pickups are very clean and they are just different than Fender American Std Strats. I would say they are a little more like Fender Texas Specials but with a bit more high cut.