Yup. Got an '82 Japanese sunburst. I've tried the Americans, and I take yer word for it that they're a slightly better guitar; ( maybe way better??), but I honestly can't tell the diff. The Mexican Strats I've played were crappy in my estimation, but maybe there's some gooduns out there. Thing is I like to play the blues, and I couldn't imagine not having the Strat around. However, I found the real question isn't just the guitar, but of course the amp. Ya gotta play it through the right gear. Mine's a DeVille 212. Kind of "classic" sound; not too rocky. That's what effects pedals're for.

And by the way, is it me or are folks just a wee bit paranoid around here? Jeez! Nice thread. SB