(ARCHIVE) Fender Japan Short Scale Stratocaster STS55 Candy Apple Red 1988
- Description
- Guitarchives
Fender Japan Pro Feel Short Scale Strat, candy apple red, made in Japan 1988-9. Here's one you don't see everyday! In the late 80s catalog, there was a series called 'Pro Feel', containing some 'modern' options suitable to the era like active basses, Strats with Floyd Rose bridges and... short and medium scale Strats. This one is a non-catalog short scale version of the STM55 medium scale Strat, in an equally non-catalog candy apple finish. Chances are this was a custom order, made in a very small batch for a big dealer; it's certainly the only example we've ever come across around here. The short scale lends this a different feel: like a Strat, but compact and super slinky; quick to move around on and cooperative for big Jimi-style stretches etc. The flatter radius and easy-access neck joint add to the shreddable feel. The 24" scale also adds some low end thump to the tone and shortens the sustain; so combined with the overwound single coils, this has a massive, thumping attack with heaps of low-end kick to complement the Strat-spank. The finish is a bright and lively take on classic CAR; it's held up well over the decades and has a slightly pink twinge to it under light. If you're a smaller human looking for a super comfy Strat, or a regular size human after an oddity that's basically a 24/7 party riff machine, this little cutie is sure to please.
Model: Fender Pro Feel Short Scale Stratocaster (STS55)
Made: Japan, Fujigen plant, 1988-9 (serial H002518)
Finish: candy apple red (CAR), 3-ply white guard
Body: alder, 7/8 size
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 10" radius, 24" scale
Weight: 3.385kg
Mods: strap pins changed
Pickups: Fender Japan Hotrod 5S single coil x3
Case: basic non original gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: mild finish wear. Headstock has some minor marks on the end. Neck is clean and smooth in the hands, no major marks. The back is pretty clean, just some light scuffs around the body. The sides are pretty clean, just some minor dings on the shoulder and around from the jack. The front is also pretty good, just some light play wear on horns and guard. Overall: very good condition (8/10).
Playing condition notes: Neck is straight, action is low, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Frets have minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. Setup with fresh 11/49 Mooonshiners strings.
This listing is an archived entry. We love to look back and remember fondly what characters we've had through the store, so we keep them around for reference.