Fender Player II Advanced HSS HT Stratocaster | Why Nicholas Veinoglou Digs This Hardtail Workhorse

Designed for players who demand tuning stability and versatile tones, the Guitar Center Exclusive Fender Player II Advanced HSS HT Stratocaster features a hardtail bridge, locking tuners and Seymour Duncan pickups in an HSS configuration: Custom Flat Strat SSL-6 single-coil (neck), Custom Flat Strat SSL-6 RWRP single-coil (middle), JB TB-4 humbucker (bridge).

In this exclusive Guitar Center demo, guitarist Nicholas Veinoglou explains why the hardtail Strat is one of his favorite guitar designs and shows how the Player II Advanced HSS HT excels at everything from Hendrix-inspired rhythms and funk grooves to soaring lead work.

Why Hardtail Stratocasters Are Nicholas Veinoglou's Favorite

"I have a lot of experience playing hardtail guitars," says Veinoglou. "They're honestly my favorite because they provide a lot more sustain and tuning stability."

Unlike many traditional floating bridges, hardtail bridges offer a secure platform that lets players move between standard tuning, drop tunings and open tunings without worrying about intonation volatility. For even more stability, the Player II Advanced HSS HT includes locking tuners.

Quiet Single-Coil Performance

Fender Player II Advanced HSS HT Stratocaster includes the Seymour Duncan Custom Flat Strat SSL-6 RWRP. The RWRP stands for Reverse Wound, Reverse Polarity, which helps reduce hum while simultaneously preserving that iconic Strat clarity, sparkle and sheen.

A Color That Inspires You to Play

“You can't help but notice how beautiful the surf green pearl finish is,” says Veinoglou. “In my opinion, the better the guitar looks, the better it's going to sound. I mean, if you don't love the way it looks, you're not going be inspired to play it, and this is one freaking awesome color.”

A “Swiss Army Knife” Strat

“The Fender Player II Advanced HSS HT Stratocaster is a real Swiss army knife of a guitar,” says Veinoglou. “We have that HSS pickup configuration, which is going to give you so many different tones. I love having that bridge humbucker. It has a little higher output, so if I'm going to take a screaming lead, I know that that thing has my back.

"Also, there’s the hardtail’s tuning stability and locking tuners. If I have to tune in between songs or do a crazy open or drop tuning mid-set, I know this is going to have me covered. It’s really an all-around solid guitar.”

Play(er) On…

Fender Player II models aren’t limited to HSS Stratocasters. Explore the complete Player II collection.

We’re always here to help you with your tone quests. Guitar Center offers a few ways to get information on the gear you want. For personalized guidance from our knowledgeable associates, just talk to one of our Gear Advisers or visit your local Guitar Center. You can also ask our AI-powered Rig Advisor to identify the gear of your favorite players or suggest options that nail the sounds you are seeking.

In addition, guitarists who want to learn more about the Stratocaster can turn to our excellent The History of the Fender Stratocaster article in our Riffs Blog.