Some Strats feel good.
Some Strats just feel right the second you pick them up.
This 2001 Fender Standard Stratocaster in Midnight Wine is one of those guitars.
Midnight Wine is one of those early-2000s finishes that doesn’t get talked about enough. In normal light it looks deep and classy — almost a rich burgundy. Under stronger light it opens up into this glossy, candy-like crimson with serious depth. The finish on this one absolutely shines. It presents far better than most 20+ year old Standards.
Condition is exceptional for its age. These early 2000s Standards usually show honest wear — buckle rash, heavy fretboard grime, dulled finish. This one has been clearly cared for. There are some minor surface scratches here and there, but nothing major, no structural issues, no ugly surprises. It looks clean, vibrant, and well preserved.
Now let’s talk about what really sets this one apart.
It’s loaded with Seymour Duncan rail-style pickups in the bridge and neck positions (with the original-style single coil in the middle). Based on the rail design and appearance, these appear to be Seymour Duncan Hot Rails–style pickups (likely SHR-1 models), which are full humbuckers in a single-coil footprint. That means:
- Higher output
- Thicker mids
- Stronger sustain
- Much less hum
- Way more punch than a stock ceramic single
The result? This Strat absolutely rips.
You still get that Strat clarity and snap in positions 2 and 4, but the bridge and neck have real authority. The bridge has bite and muscle. The neck is full and smooth without getting muddy. It’s a seriously versatile setup — from glassy cleans to driven rock tones without feeling thin.
The setup on this guitar is phenomenal. Action is dialed in, intonation is on point, and it just feels effortless. I’ve played a lot of Strats — this one genuinely plays better than most. It resonates well, responds quickly, and feels balanced across the neck.
Speaking of the neck…
The maple neck on this one is gorgeous. It has noticeable figuring that resembles subtle birdseye — not over-the-top, but enough character to make it visually interesting and unique. The fretboard is clean, frets are in great shape, and the neck profile is that comfortable early-2000s Standard carve that works for just about anything.
Specs:
- Alder body
- Maple neck with maple fretboard
- 25.5” scale
- 21 frets
- 2-point tremolo bridge
- Seymour Duncan rail humbuckers (bridge & neck)
- Traditional Strat 5-way switching
It comes with a very nice Fender soft case, so it’s ready to travel.
This is not just another stock MIM Standard. It’s a super clean early-2000s Strat with upgraded tone, killer playability, and a finish that still looks stunning over 20 years later.
Like all my guitars, this one’s been cared for and dialed in—no guesswork, no surprises, just a great instrument that’s ready to play. I personally inspect and test every guitar before it ships, making sure it’s in the exact condition I’d want to receive myself. These guitars come from me, not a shop—each one gets the kind of attention and care only a real guitar lover gives. Ships fast and insured.
⏳ Quick note
These guitars don’t usually sit. Most are purchased within 1–6 days, and I regularly hear from watchers after the listing has already sold. If this one’s on your radar, now’s the window!
