{"product_id":"squier-sq-series-stratocaster-black-electric-guitar-used","title":"Squier SQ Series Stratocaster Black Electric Guitar, (Used)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Squier SQ Series Stratocaster Black is a highly desirable vintage Japanese-made Stratocaster from the early days of Fender Japan production. Built during the highly respected SQ era, these guitars have become increasingly sought after by players and collectors thanks to their excellent build quality, vintage-inspired specifications and historical significance within Fender's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinished in Black, this Stratocaster delivers everything players love about the classic Fender formula, including comfortable body contours, versatile single-coil tones and exceptional playability. The SQ Series represents an important chapter in Fender's revival during the early 1980s, with many players considering these Japanese instruments amongst the best value vintage Stratocasters available today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis pre-owned example is presented in good condition and remains a fantastic player's instrument. It previously featured a four-bolt neck plate conversion but has since been returned to its original three-bolt neck plate configuration. The rear tremolo cavity backplate is missing, and no hard case or gig bag is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eCondition Overview\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGood Condition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guitar shows noticeable cosmetic wear consistent with its age and previous use but remains fully functional and structurally sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProfessionally checked and ready for its next owner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eWhat's Included?\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Original 3-Bolt Neck Plate Configuration\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Fully Checked \u0026amp; Tested by Fair Deal Music\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✘ No Hard Case Included\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✘ No Gig Bag Included\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✘ Tremolo Backplate Missing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✘ Original Box Not Included\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eCondition Notes\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGood overall condition\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCosmetic wear consistent with age and use\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePreviously modified with a four-bolt neck plate conversion\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReturned to original three-bolt neck plate specification\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTremolo cavity backplate missing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardware functioning correctly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElectronics functioning correctly\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo hard case or gig bag included\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eFair Deal Quality Control Assessment\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur team has thoroughly inspected and tested this Squier SQ Stratocaster to ensure it is fully functional and ready for its next owner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChecks completed include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Pickups tested\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Controls verified\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Selector switch checked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Output jack inspected\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Neck assessed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Fingerboard inspected\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Frets checked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Tuners tested\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Hardware verified\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Tremolo system inspected\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Playability assessed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Overall condition verified\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eService \/ Setup Work\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrior to sale, this guitar has been checked and prepared by our team.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWork completed includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Neck relief checked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Action checked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Electronics tested\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Hardware inspected\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Tremolo system assessed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Frets evaluated\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ General playability checked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Restrung where required\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll pre-owned guitars are set up and checked before leaving the shop. Please note that guitar setup can occasionally shift during delivery due to changes in humidity and temperature, as wood naturally responds to environmental changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eWhy Choose The Squier SQ Series Stratocaster Black?\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDesirable Fender Japan Heritage\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSQ Series guitars were produced during the formative years of Fender Japan and have developed a strong reputation amongst players looking for vintage Japanese quality and craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eClassic Stratocaster Tone\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe traditional Stratocaster pickup layout delivers sparkling cleans, expressive lead tones and excellent versatility across a wide range of musical genres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eVintage Japanese Craftsmanship\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany musicians consider early Japanese Fender and Squier instruments amongst the best-built production guitars of their era, offering outstanding quality and consistency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eReturned To Original Neck Plate Configuration\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the guitar was previously modified with a four-bolt neck plate conversion, it has since been returned to its original three-bolt layout, maintaining the appearance and character associated with the SQ series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eComfortable Stratocaster Playability\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ergonomic body contours, familiar controls and versatile pickup switching make the Stratocaster one of the easiest guitars to play and live with.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIncreasing Vintage Appeal\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVintage Japanese Squiers continue to attract growing interest from collectors and players seeking historically significant instruments at sensible prices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eWhy Buy Pre-Owned?\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuying vintage and pre-owned instruments often provides access to unique guitars that are no longer available through modern production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBenefits include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccess to vintage models\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrong value for money\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHistorical significance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnique character\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProfessionally checked before sale\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustainable alternative to buying new\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eWhy Choose A Vintage Japanese Stratocaster?\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJapanese-made Stratocasters from the early Fender Japan period have earned enormous respect amongst guitarists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlayers choose them because they offer:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent craftsmanship\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVintage-inspired specifications\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrong reliability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollector appeal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat playability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOutstanding value compared to many vintage American alternatives\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SQ Series remains one of the most desirable examples from this period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eWho Is It For?\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBeginners\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable for dedicated beginners seeking a guitar with genuine vintage character and long-term appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIntermediate Players\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn excellent choice for players looking to own a quality vintage Stratocaster with strong Fender Japan heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdvanced \/ Professional Players\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for collectors, recording musicians, session players and enthusiasts of vintage Japanese-made instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eParticularly Recommended For\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlues guitarists\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRock musicians\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndie players\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSession musicians\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVintage guitar enthusiasts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFender collectors\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecording artists\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStratocaster fans\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eProduct Story \/ Background \/ Heritage\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing Fender's partnership with Japanese manufacturers during the early 1980s, the SQ Series was introduced as part of the growing Fender Japan catalogue. These instruments quickly established a reputation for quality and played an important role in restoring confidence in Fender's vintage-style designs during a challenging period in the company's history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, SQ Series guitars remain highly regarded for their quality, playability and historical significance, with many players viewing them as hidden gems within the vintage guitar market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eAssociated Artists \/ Songs \/ Performances\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile this specific SQ Stratocaster is not associated with a signature artist, Fender Japan Stratocasters have been used by countless professional musicians around the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Stratocaster design itself remains one of the most recorded and performed guitar platforms in music history, appearing across blues, rock, funk, country, pop and countless other genres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eProduct Comparisons\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSquier SQ Series Stratocaster vs Squier JV Series Stratocaster\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe JV Series commands higher collector values, while the SQ Series offers much of the same Japanese craftsmanship and vintage appeal at a more accessible price point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSquier SQ Series Stratocaster vs Fender Japan ST Series\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth offer excellent Japanese build quality, though the SQ Series benefits from its early production heritage and growing collector interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSquier SQ Series Stratocaster vs Tokai Springy Sound\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth are highly respected vintage Japanese Strat-style instruments, though the SQ benefits from direct Fender-related branding and heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSquier SQ Series Stratocaster vs Greco SE Series\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Greco offers similar vintage Japanese quality, while the SQ Series continues to attract strong interest from Fender enthusiasts and collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eWhy Are Early Fender Japan Squier Guitars So Popular?\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEarly Fender Japan Squiers have become increasingly desirable because they combine:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent craftsmanship\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVintage-inspired specifications\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrong historical significance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReliable playability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollectable appeal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent value compared to many vintage American-made alternatives\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor many players, they represent one of the smartest ways to own a genuinely vintage Stratocaster-style instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eLooking For Advice?\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking for advice on choosing the right vintage Stratocaster, Japanese-made guitar or collector-grade instrument? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSpecification\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetails\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eProduct Name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSquier SQ Series Stratocaster\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBrand\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSquier\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSeries\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSQ Series\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFinish\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBlack\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eType\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eElectric Guitar\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eConstruction\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBolt-On Neck\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNeck Plate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOriginal 3-Bolt Configuration\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePickup Configuration\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSSS\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eElectronics\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePassive\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eControls\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaster Volume, 2 Tone Controls\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSwitching\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5-Way Selector\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTremolo Backplate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMissing\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOrientation\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRight-Handed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCondition\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGood\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHard Case Included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eGig Bag Included\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003ePower Requirements\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a passive electric guitar and does not require batteries or external power.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003ePairs Perfectly With\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStratocaster hard case\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePremium gig bag\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eValve amplifier\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverdrive pedal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChorus pedal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDelay pedal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInstrument cable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGuitar stand\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClip-on tuner\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpare strings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSelected pre-owned amplifiers and effects pedals\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eWhy Buy From Fair Deal Music?\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFair Deal Music is a family-run independent music retailer that has been helping musicians find the right gear since 1987. As Birmingham's largest independent music store, we've built our reputation on expert advice, competitive pricing and exceptional customer service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith over 6,000 Excellent 4.9-star Trustpilot reviews, musicians across the UK trust Fair Deal Music for quality instruments, honest descriptions and knowledgeable support before and after purchase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer fast UK delivery, secure online ordering and a Birmingham showroom where you can explore a huge range of new and pre-owned gear. We also buy, sell and trade musical equipment, helping musicians upgrade and discover their next instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur experienced guitar specialists can help you navigate the world of vintage Japanese guitars, collector-grade instruments and classic Stratocaster designs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat condition is the guitar in?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis guitar is in good condition with cosmetic wear consistent with its age and previous use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHas the guitar been modified?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe guitar was previously converted to a four-bolt neck plate configuration but has since been returned to its original three-bolt neck plate arrangement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy are SQ Series guitars desirable?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSQ Series guitars come from the early Fender Japan period and are respected for their build quality, vintage feel and growing collectability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it suitable for gigging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbsolutely. These guitars are renowned for their playability and reliability, making them excellent working instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I try it in-store?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. You're welcome to visit our Birmingham showroom to try available guitars and speak with our experienced team.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"USED","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56965260476796,"sku":"Squier SQ Series Stratocaster Black Electric Guitar, (Used)","price":649.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0441\/6457\/9484\/files\/DSC07575_10d6d042-e284-411c-aeb3-3455969e98ea.jpg?v=1781774550","url":"https:\/\/www.fairdealmusic.co.uk\/products\/squier-sq-series-stratocaster-black-electric-guitar-used","provider":"Fair Deal Music","version":"1.0","type":"link"}