The Fender Stratocaster is probably the most recognisable and iconic electric guitars of all time and it’s definitely the most duplicated with most other guitar brands producing their own take on the instrument. First manufactured in 1957 in California by Leo Fender, the guitar’s six a side tuners, the three single coil pick ups, five way pick up selector, 25.5 inch scale length and tremolo system have all become patented and celebrated designs.

Today, the choices are endless with many boutique manufacturers vying with Fender at the top end of the market. The good news is you really don’t need to invest major dollars to buy a “S” style guitar that plays, sounds and looks great. Modern manufacturing methods produce instruments that are very reliable, durable and amazingly well finished. If you are looking for your first electric guitar, a back up or a project guitar that you want to customise look no further than these fantastic value for money traditional “S’ styled instruments.

Here are our top 5 selections for great value “S” styled guitars under $300.



Squier Bullet Fat Stratocaster

Squier guitars are produced by the Fender company so if you want to get as close to the original as possible this may be for you. Squier also produces other famous models such as the telecaster and Jazzmaster as well as the groundbreaking precision and jazz basses. Squier guitars are a favourite for guitar teachers across the globe and many guitarists count a Squier as their very first instrument.

Top 3 Features

  • Fender synchronous tremolo system
  • Humbucker and two single coil pickup configuration for a beefy tone with plenty of sound sculpting possibilities
  • Part of the famous and well respected Fender brand

Discover our range of Fender Stratocaster Guitars.





Cort G100

Like all Cort instruments the G100 represents excellent value for money. Made with the beginner in mind, The G100 is available in a range of classic colours including an open pore Walnut option (pictured) which improves resonance whilst providing a super classy look and feel for this price point. This guitar is also available in great value starter pack with one of our best sounding budget amplifiers and all the accessories you need to get playing straight away.

Top 3 Features:

  • Fixed bridge for tuning stability
  • Bevelled neck-body join for fluid upper fret access
  • Thinner lighter body perfect for younger players

Discover our range of Cort Electric Guitars.


Ashton AG232

Ashton is another company that produces a range of reliable, workhorse instruments at a fabulously low price point. Ashton beginner classical guitars are one our biggest sellers and this recently released electric promises to be popular as well. The AG232 comes in a range of eye-catching colours including metallic gold (pictured), metallic pink and seafoam green.

Top 3 Features:

  • Smartwood fingerboard provides a great feel and looks as well as being environmentally sustainable
  • Poplar body is lightweight and sonically well balanced
  • Comes with a gig bag, lead and strap

Discover our range of Ashton Electric Guitars.




Yamaha Pacifica PAC012

Yamaha are renowned for their quality and reliability throughout their extensive range of instruments from acoustic and digital pianos, brass and wood and drums, their guitars are no exception. The Pacifica PAC012 models are a go to for schools and educational facilities worldwide. These are build tough and no-nonsense instruments designed to last and deliver time after time.

Top 3 Features:

  • Mahogany body produces a warm sound overall with sparkling highs and a all defined mid range.  
  • Walnut fingerboard for hard wearing playability
  • Humbucker and two single coil pickup configuration for a beefy tone with plenty of sound sculpting possibilities

Discover our range of Yamaha Pacifica Guitars.

SX VES 62 

SX maybe a brand everyone is not too familiar with, however, they have quickly developed a cult following with many of our customers including experienced players looking for a quality instrument as a back up or a project guitar. Out of all of the guitars on this list this one has the most vintage looks and style. Sporting a faded mint green scratch plate and a vintage gloss headstock this guitar certainly looks and plays the part.

Top 3 Features

  • Traditional solid basswood body for a fat and well balance tonality
  • Rockwood fingerboard is comfortable and environmentally sustainable
  • Humbucker and two single coil pickup configuration for a beefy tone with plenty of sound sculpting possibilities

Discover our range of SX VES Guitars.

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