Hss vs Sss Stratocaster: Know The Differences

The Stratocaster is one of the most iconic and popular electric guitars in the world, and for good reason. Its sleek and stylish design, versatile sound, and ease of playability make it a go-to instrument for guitarists of all genres and skill levels. When it comes to Stratocasters, there are two main pickup configurations to choose from: HSS vs SSS Stratocaster. HSS stands for humbucker-single-single, while SSS stands for three single-coil pickups. Each configuration has its own unique tonal characteristics and benefits, and choosing between them can be a difficult decision for guitarists. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between HSS and SSS Stratocasters and help you decide which pickup configuration is right for you.

Hss vs Sss Stratocaster

What is HSS Stratocaster?

HSS Stratocaster refers to a type of Fender Stratocaster electric guitar that has a pickup configuration consisting of a humbucker pickup in the bridge position and two single-coil pickups in the middle and neck positions. The acronym HSS stands for Humbucker-Single-Single, which represents the type and placement of the pickups on the guitar.

The humbucker pickup in the bridge position provides a warm and full-bodied tone, which is ideal for lead guitar work and heavier distortion. The two single-coil pickups in the middle and neck positions provide a brighter, twangy sound, which is ideal for clean rhythm playing and arpeggios. The combination of these pickups offers a wider range of tonal options compared to the traditional SSS (Single-Single-Single) configuration, making the HSS Stratocaster more versatile and suitable for playing different genres of music such as rock, blues, jazz, and metal.

The HSS Stratocaster is a popular choice for guitarists who want the classic Stratocaster design and feel but also need a more versatile guitar that can handle a variety of styles and sounds. The HSS Stratocaster is available in various models and price points, from entry-level to high-end professional models, making it accessible to guitarists of all levels and budgets.

What is SSS stratocaster?

Hss vs Sss Stratocaster

SSS Stratocaster refers to a type of Fender Stratocaster electric guitar that has a pickup configuration consisting of three single-coil pickups. The acronym SSS stands for Single-Single-Single, which represents the type and placement of the pickups on the guitar.

Each of the single-coil pickups on an SSS Stratocaster provides a bright, clear, and articulate sound, which is the classic Stratocaster sound that has been heard on countless recordings across many genres. The neck and middle pickups are known for their signature “quack” sound, which is characterized by a mid-range frequency scoop that provides a distinct and articulate tone. The bridge pickup is brighter and offers more output, making it ideal for lead guitar work and heavier distortion.

The SSS Stratocaster is a popular choice for guitarists who want the classic Stratocaster sound and feel. It is ideal for playing genres such as blues, country, funk, and indie rock, as well as for clean or slightly overdriven tones. The SSS Stratocaster is available in various models and price points, from entry-level to high-end professional models, making it accessible to guitarists of all levels and budgets.

Overall, the SSS Stratocaster is an iconic and versatile guitar that has stood the test of time and remains a go-to instrument for guitarists of all genres and skill levels.

HSS Stratocaster vs SSS Stratocaster

History

The SSS (Single-Single-Single) and HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) pickup configurations on Fender Stratocaster electric guitars have a long history that dates back to the early 1950s when Leo Fender first introduced the Stratocaster.

The original Stratocaster had a pickup configuration of three single-coil pickups, which became known as the SSS configuration. This pickup configuration quickly became popular among guitarists for its signature bright and articulate sound, which was perfect for playing clean or slightly overdriven tones in genres such as blues, country, and rock and roll.

However, as music genres evolved and became more diverse, guitarists began to demand more versatility from their instruments. In response, Fender introduced the HSS pickup configuration in the late 1970s, which added a humbucker pickup in the bridge position to the SSS configuration. The humbucker pickup provided a more significant and warmer sound than the single-coil pickups, making it ideal for lead guitar work and heavier distortion. This configuration quickly became popular among guitarists who needed a wider range of tonal options, including playing genres such as hard rock, metal, and jazz.

Today, both HSS vs SSS Stratocaster remain popular choices for Fender Stratocaster guitars. The SSS configuration is often associated with classic rock and blues sounds, while the HSS configuration is favored by guitarists who want a more versatile instrument that can handle a wider range of musical styles. Fender continues to offer both SSS and HSS pickup configurations on its Stratocaster models, along with various other customizations, ensuring that there is a Stratocaster for every type of guitarist.

Differences

CriteriaSSS StratocasterHSS Stratocaster
Pickup ConfigurationSingle-Single-Single (3 single-coil pickups)Humbucker-Single-Single (1 humbucker pickup in bridge, 2 single-coil pickups in middle and neck)
ToneBright, articulate, with signature “quack” soundBright and articulate in the neck and middle positions, warmer and fuller in the bridge position
VersatilityBest for clean and slightly overdriven tones, ideal for blues, country, and classic rockMore versatile, suitable for a wider range of styles, including hard rock, metal, and jazz
OutputLower outputHigher output
Overdrive/DistortionNot as suitable for heavy overdrive/distortionSuitable for heavier overdrive/distortion
Playing StylesBest for rhythm guitar, clean arpeggios, and bluesy solosSuitable for lead guitar, heavier distortion, and a wider range of playing styles
Price RangeAvailable in various models and price points, from entry-level to high-end professional modelsAvailable in various models and price points, from entry-level to high-end professional models

Similarities

Here are some similarities between HSS vs SSS Stratocaster guitars:

  • Both have a similar body shape, neck design, and general aesthetic, as they are both Fender Stratocaster guitars.
  • Both offer excellent playability and comfortable neck profiles, making them popular among guitarists of all skill levels.
  • Both have the classic Stratocaster sound, with bright and articulate tones that are ideal for playing clean or slightly overdriven tones.
  • Both are highly customizable, with various options for neck materials, fretboard materials, and finishes, among other things.
  • Both are versatile guitars that can handle a wide range of musical styles, from blues and country to rock and metal.
  • Both have a long history and legacy, with the Stratocaster being one of the most iconic and influential guitars in the history of music.

Cost and Availability

The cost and availability of both SSS and HSS Stratocaster guitars can vary depending on the specific model and where you are located.

Availability

Generally speaking, SSS Stratocaster models tend to be more widely available and can be found at a range of price points. From affordable entry-level models to high-end professional instruments.

In contrast, HSS Stratocaster models are often more specialized and may be less common in music stores, especially in smaller towns or cities. However, many major guitar manufacturers, including Fender and Squier, offer a range of HSS Stratocaster models, including affordable options for beginners.

Cost

In terms of cost, SSS Stratocaster models can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars. It is for an entry-level Squier Affinity Stratocaster to several thousand dollars for a custom shop or signature model. Similarly, HSS Stratocaster models can range from affordable Squier Bullet Stratocasters to high-end American Professional Stratocasters. It can cost several thousand dollars.

Overall, the cost and availability of both SSS and HSS Stratocaster guitars can vary widely depending on the specific model and your location. But there are options available for guitarists of all skill levels and budgets.

Notable performers and composers.

Here are some notable performers and composers who have used HSS and SSS Stratocaster guitars:

HSS Stratocaster

Yngwie Malmsteen

Yngwie Malmsteen is a Swedish guitarist known for his virtuosic playing style and neo-classical approach to rock music. He is well known for his use of HSS Stratocaster guitars . He often modified with scalloped fretboards, custom pickups, and other features to suit his unique playing style.

Eric Johnson

Eric Johnson is an American guitarist known for his melodic, expressive playing style and use of a variety of guitar techniques. He is a longtime user of HSS Stratocaster guitars. He favors for their versatility and ability to handle a wide range of playing styles.

Richie Sambora

Richie Sambora is an American guitarist best known for his work with the rock band Bon Jovi. He is a noted user of HSS Stratocaster guitars, which he has used extensively in both live performances and studio recordings.

SSS Stratocaster

Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix is perhaps the most famous user of the SSS Stratocaster, and his innovative playing style helped to popularize the guitar in the 1960s. Hendrix used a variety of SSS Stratocaster models throughout his career, often modifying them with custom pickups and other features to suit his playing style.

David Gilmour

David Gilmour is an English guitarist best known for his work with the rock band Pink Floyd. He is a longtime user of SSS Stratocaster guitars. He has used it extensively in both live performances and studio recordings.

Stevie Ray Vaughan

Stevie Ray Vaughan was an American blues guitarist known for his soulful playing style and virtuosic technical abilities. He was a noted user of SSS Stratocaster guitars. He favored their bright, articulate tone and ability to handle a wide range of playing styles.

Overall, both HSS and SSS Stratocaster guitars have been used by a wide range of notable performers and composers, each of whom has found their own unique sound and approach to playing with these iconic guitars.

Both HSS and SSS Stratocaster guitars are versatile instruments that can be used for a wide range of musical styles, from blues and rock to country and jazz. Here are some of their common uses and functions

hss Stratocaster vs sss stratocaster

Uses and Functions

SSS Stratocaster

The SSS Stratocaster is often used for:

  • SSS Stratocaster has 3 single-coil pickups for bright and articulate tones ideal for clean and slightly overdriven playing styles.
  • It has been used by legendary guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan for classic rock and blues music.
  • The instrument’s range of pickup configurations and tonal options make it versatile for various musical styles and playing techniques.

HSS Stratocaster

The HSS Stratocaster is often used for:

  • HSS Stratocaster’s humbucker in the bridge position provides a thicker, more aggressive tone for hard rock and heavy metal.
  • Many HSS Stratocaster players use virtuosic playing styles with sweep picking and tapping to create fast, complex solos.
  • The instrument is highly versatile and can handle various musical styles like blues, jazz, hard rock, and metal.

Tips and Tricks

Assuming you are referring to the Hot Single-Coil Stratocaster pickups (HSS) and the Standard Single-Coil Stratocaster pickups (SSS), here are some tips to help you choose between the two:

Consider the type of music you play:

HSS pickups are typically better suited for heavier genres such as hard rock or metal. while SSS pickups are more suitable for blues, funk, and classic rock.

Think about your playing style:

If you play with a lot of distortion, HSS pickups may be a better choice. As they have a higher output and can handle high gain better. However, if you prefer a clean or slightly overdriven sound, SSS pickups may be more suitable as they produce a clearer and brighter tone.

Look at the guitar you have:

HSS pickups are often found on more modern Stratocaster models, while SSS pickups are more commonly found on vintage or traditional-style Stratocasters. If you have a modern-style Stratocaster, HSS pickups may complement the guitar’s features better.

Try both out:

Ultimately, the best way to determine which pickup configuration is right for you is to try both out and see which one you prefer. Play different genres of music, experiment with different amp settings, and see which pickups sound the best to your ears.

Remember that the type of pickup you choose is just one factor in determining your guitar’s sound. Your choice of strings, amplifier, and playing style will also have a significant impact on your overall tone.

FAQ

What is the difference between an HSS and an SSS Stratocaster?

A: An HSS Stratocaster has a humbucker pickup in the bridge position, while an SSS Stratocaster has three single-coil pickups in the neck, middle, and bridge positions.

Which one is better, an HSS or an SSS Stratocaster?

A: It depends on personal preference and the type of music you play. An HSS Stratocaster is better suited for heavier styles of music, as the humbucker pickup provides a more powerful and distorted sound. An SSS Stratocaster is better suited for cleaner, more traditional styles of music, as the single-coil pickups provide a brighter and more articulate tone.

Can I switch out the pickups on my Stratocaster from SSS to HSS or vice versa?

A: Yes, you can switch out the pickups on your Stratocaster from SSS to HSS or vice versa. However, you may need to make additional modifications to the guitar, such as changing the pickguard and wiring.

Can I switch out the pickups on my Stratocaster from SSS to HSS or vice versa?

A: Yes, you can switch out the pickups on your Stratocaster from SSS to HSS or vice versa. However, you may need to make additional modifications to the guitar, such as changing the pickguard and wiring.

Which famous guitarists use HSS and SSS Stratocasters?

A: Many famous guitarists have used both HSS and SSS Stratocasters. Some notable examples of HSS Stratocaster players include Jimi Hendrix, Ritchie Blackmore, and Eric Clapton. Some notable examples of SSS Stratocaster players include Buddy Holly, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and John Mayer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the HSS and SSS Stratocaster models offer players distinct tonal options and playability. While the HSS Stratocaster provides a versatile combination of single-coil and humbucking pickups, the SSS Stratocaster delivers the classic, bright and jangly tone associated with the Stratocaster sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two models depends on the player’s personal preferences and musical style. Whether you prefer the versatility of the HSS or the iconic sound of the SSS, both models are fantastic choices for any guitar player looking to add a Stratocaster to their collection.

also read: mandolin vs ukulele

Leave a Comment