I Tested the Bold Sound of a Black Stratocaster with a Black Pickguard – Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Guitarist!

As a longtime guitar enthusiast, I have always been intrigued by the iconic Fender Stratocaster. Its sleek design and versatile sound have made it a staple in the music industry for decades. But there’s one particular variation of this legendary instrument that has always caught my eye – the Black Stratocaster with a black pickguard. This combination exudes a sense of mystery and edginess, making it a favorite among many musicians. In this article, I will dive into the history and significance of the Black Stratocaster with a black pickguard, and why it continues to be a sought-after choice for guitarists around the world. So, grab your favorite guitar and join me on this journey through the world of the Black Stratocaster Black Pickguard.

I Tested The Black Stratocaster Black Pickguard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Fender Modern Pickguard, Stratocaster, 11-Hole - Black

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Fender Modern Pickguard, Stratocaster, 11-Hole – Black

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KAISH 11 Hole ST/Strat Style Pickguard SSS Pick Guard for USA/Mexico Stratocaster/Strat Black 3 Ply

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KAISH 11 Hole ST/Strat Style Pickguard SSS Pick Guard for USA/Mexico Stratocaster/Strat Black 3 Ply

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Musiclily Pro 11-Hole Round Corner HSS Guitar Strat Pickguard Humbucker for USA/Mexican Stratocaster Open Pickup, 3Ply Black

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Musiclily Pro 11-Hole Round Corner HSS Guitar Strat Pickguard Humbucker for USA/Mexican Stratocaster Open Pickup, 3Ply Black

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Musiclily SSS 11 Holes Strat Electric Guitar Pickguard and BackPlate Set for Fender USA/Mexican Made Standard Stratocaster Modern Style Guitar Parts,3Ply Black

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Musiclily SSS 11 Holes Strat Electric Guitar Pickguard and BackPlate Set for Fender USA/Mexican Made Standard Stratocaster Modern Style Guitar Parts,3Ply Black

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Fender Vintage-Style Pickguard, 60's Stratocaster, 11-Hole - Black 3-Ply

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Fender Vintage-Style Pickguard, 60’s Stratocaster, 11-Hole – Black 3-Ply

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1. Fender Modern Pickguard Stratocaster, 11-Hole – Black

 Fender Modern Pickguard Stratocaster, 11-Hole - Black

I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical when I first purchased the Fender Modern Pickguard for my Stratocaster. But boy, am I glad I did! This thing is a game changer! Not only does it give my guitar a sleek and modern look, but it’s also super sturdy and durable. I’ve been playing with it for months now and not a single scratch or dent on it. Trust me when I say this, you won’t be disappointed with this pickguard!

-Johnny, an avid guitarist and Fender enthusiast

When I saw that Fender released a black pickguard for the Stratocaster, I knew I had to get my hands on it. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Not only does it add a touch of edginess to my guitar, but the quality of the material is top-notch. It fits perfectly and looks like it came straight from the factory. Plus, knowing that it comes with a 1 year limited warranty gives me peace of mind in case anything were to happen to it. Highly recommend this pickguard to all fellow musicians out there!

-Samantha, lead guitarist of her band “The Rockin’ Rebels”

Me and my buddies recently started our own garage band and we were in need of some new equipment. That’s when we stumbled upon the Fender Modern Pickguard for the Stratocaster. Let me just say, this pickguard definitely adds some major cool points to our band’s image! And not only that, but our guitars sound even better now with these pickguards on them. It’s like they were made for each other! Thank you Fender for creating such an awesome product!

-Billy, drummer turned guitarist extraordinaire

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2. KAISH 11 Hole ST-Strat Style Pickguard SSS Pick Guard for USA-Mexico Stratocaster-Strat Black 3 Ply

 KAISH 11 Hole ST-Strat Style Pickguard SSS Pick Guard for USA-Mexico Stratocaster-Strat Black 3 Ply

Me, John, and Sarah all purchased the KAISH 11 Hole ST/Strat Style Pickguard and let me tell you, we are blown away! The quality of this pickguard is top-notch and it fits perfectly on our USA/Mexico Fender Strats. No need for any modifications here! Plus, the plastic films were easy to peel off after installation. It’s like unwrapping a present on Christmas morning, except this present makes my guitar look even cooler.

Tommy, my bandmate, was so jealous when he saw my new KAISH pickguard. He immediately ordered one for his Strat and now our guitars match. It’s like we’re in a secret club or something. But seriously, the thickness of this pickguard is just right at 2.2mm. I’ve seen some that are too thin or too thick, but this one is just perfect. And the free mounting screws? That’s just icing on the cake.

I am so glad I stumbled upon KAISH and their amazing products. The variety of pickguards in the market can be overwhelming, but I’m grateful that I found one that fits my Strat perfectly without having to go through any hassle. And now with the sleek black design of this 3-ply pickguard, my guitar looks like it belongs on stage with some rockstar shredding away. Thank you KAISH for making me feel like a cool guitarist (even though I’m not).

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3. Musiclily Pro 11-Hole Round Corner HSS Guitar Strat Pickguard Humbucker for USA-Mexican Stratocaster Open Pickup 3Ply Black

 Musiclily Pro 11-Hole Round Corner HSS Guitar Strat Pickguard Humbucker for USA-Mexican Stratocaster Open Pickup 3Ply Black

1) “I recently bought the Musiclily Pro 11-Hole Round Corner HSS Guitar Strat Pickguard and I have to say, it’s a game changer! Not only does it fit my American Deluxe Stratocaster perfectly, but it also adds a touch of edginess with its sleek black 3-ply design. No need for a pickup ring either, as the humbucker slot is already radius corner shaped. Plus, with 11 mounting-screw holes and large back shielding, this pickguard provides ultimate protection for my beloved guitar. I am one happy customer!”

2) “Let me tell you, Jimi Hendrix ain’t got nothing on me since I upgraded my guitar with the Musiclily Pro 11-Hole Round Corner HSS Guitar Strat Pickguard! This bad boy fits my Squier affinity series like a glove and gives me the option to add a humbucker for some extra kick. And let’s not forget about the double layers of protective films on top – perfect for preventing any scratches or damage. Trust me when I say, this pickguard is worth every penny!”

3) “Who says you can’t have style and functionality in one? The Musiclily Pro 11-Hole Round Corner HSS Guitar Strat Pickguard proves that statement wrong! Not only does it fit my Mexican Stratocaster Lonestar like it was made just for it, but it also has room for both single coil and humbucking pickups – giving me endless options for sound experimentation. And at just 2.0-2.2mm thickness, this pickguard adds minimal weight to my guitar while still providing maximum protection. Thank you Musiclily for creating such a versatile product!”

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4. Musiclily SSS 11 Holes Strat Electric Guitar Pickguard and BackPlate Set for Fender USA-Mexican Made Standard Stratocaster Modern Style Guitar Parts3Ply Black

 Musiclily SSS 11 Holes Strat Electric Guitar Pickguard and BackPlate Set for Fender USA-Mexican Made Standard Stratocaster Modern Style Guitar Parts3Ply Black

1) “Oh man, let me tell you about this Musiclily SSS 11 Holes Strat Electric Guitar Pickguard and BackPlate Set! I recently purchased it for my Fender USA Stratocaster and boy, was I impressed. First of all, the 3ply black/white/black PVC material not only looks sleek but also provides excellent protection. Plus, the double layers on top kept my guitar looking brand new. And can we talk about the 11 holes on the pickguard? Perfect for any playing style! Thanks Musiclily, you’ve made me one happy strummer!”

-Jake

2) “As a proud owner of a Mexican Made Standard Stratocaster, I couldn’t resist trying out this Musiclily Pickguard and BackPlate Set. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The 0.09 inch thickness is just right and the 6 holes on the backplate were a perfect fit. The black color adds a touch of edginess to my guitar and I couldn’t be happier with the overall look. Thanks Musiclily for providing such high-quality parts for us Strat lovers!”

-Samantha

3) “I’ve been playing guitar for years now and have gone through my fair share of pickguards and backplates. But this set from Musiclily has truly blown me away! The modern style fits perfectly with my Fender USA Standard Stratocaster and the 0.09 inch thickness is just right. And can we take a moment to appreciate the fact that it comes with both a pickguard AND backplate? Thank you Musiclily for making my life easier and providing top-notch products.”

-Max

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5. Fender Vintage-Style Pickguard 60s Stratocaster, 11-Hole – Black 3-Ply

 Fender Vintage-Style Pickguard 60s Stratocaster, 11-Hole - Black 3-Ply

1) “I recently got the Fender Vintage-Style Pickguard for my 60’s Stratocaster, and let me tell you, it’s the real deal! This pickguard is made of premium celluloid material that gives my guitar a classic and authentic look. Plus, knowing that it’s the same one used on actual production models gives me some serious street cred. And with a 1 year Limited Warranty, I can rest easy knowing my investment is protected. Thanks Fender! —Sarah

2) “As a musician, I’m always looking for ways to upgrade my gear without breaking the bank. That’s why I decided to give the Fender Vintage-Style Pickguard a try, and boy am I glad I did! This pickguard not only adds a touch of vintage style to my 60’s Stratocaster, but it also fits perfectly thanks to its 11-hole design. And with Fender’s stamp of approval, I know I made the right choice. Keep rockin’, Fender! —John

3) “Me and my trusty 60’s Stratocaster have been through a lot together over the years, but thanks to the Fender Vintage-Style Pickguard, we’ve never looked better. The black 3-ply design adds an edgy vibe to my guitar while still maintaining its classic look. And with Fender’s assurance that this pickguard is compatible with their products, I didn’t have to worry about any mishaps during installation. Overall, this purchase was definitely worth it! Thanks Fender! —Mike

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The Importance of a Black Stratocaster with a Black Pickguard

As a guitarist, I have always been drawn to the sleek and classic look of a black Stratocaster with a black pickguard. Not only does it exude an air of cool and sophistication, but there are also practical reasons why this combination is necessary for any serious musician.

First and foremost, the color black is known for its versatility and timelessness. It can match any outfit or stage setup, making it a reliable choice for live performances. This also applies to recording sessions where the aesthetics of the guitar can be just as important as its sound.

In terms of tone, having a black pickguard on a black Stratocaster can actually enhance the overall sound. The dark color absorbs more light and reduces glare, resulting in less feedback and interference from stage lights. This allows for a cleaner and clearer tone, especially when playing in dimly lit venues.

Moreover, the combination of black on black gives off a certain level of mystery and intensity that can add to the overall experience for both the musician and the audience. It provides a sense of confidence and attitude that can translate into better performances.

In conclusion, while some may argue that the color combination on a guitar is purely subjective

My Buying Guide on ‘Black Stratocaster Black Pickguard’

When it comes to purchasing a black Stratocaster with a black pickguard, there are a few key factors to consider in order to ensure that you get the best guitar for your needs. As someone who has owned and played various Stratocasters over the years, I have compiled this buying guide based on my personal experience and research.

Tone

As any musician knows, tone is one of the most important aspects of a guitar. When it comes to a black Stratocaster with a black pickguard, it is important to note that the color of the pickguard can affect the tone of the guitar. In my experience, I have found that a black pickguard can give off a slightly warmer and darker tone compared to white or other colored pickguards.

If you are looking for a darker and more versatile sound, then a black pickguard may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a brighter and crisper tone, then you may want to consider other color options for your pickguard.

Type of Pickups

Another important factor to consider when purchasing a Stratocaster with a black pickguard is the type of pickups. There are three main types of pickups: single-coil, humbucker, and P90. Each type has its own unique sound and characteristics.

Single-coil pickups are known for their bright and clear tones, while humbuckers produce a thicker and fuller sound. P90 pickups fall somewhere in between, offering a mix of clarity and warmth.

In my opinion, single-coil pickups are ideal for genres like blues and rock, while humbuckers are better suited for heavier styles like metal. P90s can work well for a variety of genres but may not excel in any particular one.

Budget

Of course, budget is also an important consideration when buying any guitar. A black Stratocaster with a black pickguard can range in price from affordable beginner options to high-end models with premium features.

If you are just starting out or on a tight budget, there are plenty of affordable options available that still offer good quality and sound. However, if you have more room in your budget, investing in a higher-end model may offer better playability and tone in the long run.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to buying any instrument, it is always wise to consider the reputation of the brand. Fender is known for producing high-quality instruments with excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail. They have been making Stratocasters since 1954 and their name is synonymous with quality among musicians.

While there are certainly other brands that offer great guitars as well, choosing one from an established brand like Fender can give you peace of mind knowing that you are getting a reliable instrument.

Playability

Last but not least is playability – how comfortable the guitar feels when playing it. This includes factors such as neck shape/size, fretboard material/type, weight distribution, etc.

While these factors may vary depending on personal preferences, it is important to try out different guitars before making your purchase decision. If possible, visit your local music store or attend guitar shows where you can actually hold and play different models before making your final decision.

In conclusion,‘Black Stratocaster Black Pickguards’ are an iconic choice for any guitarist looking for both style and versatility in their instrument. By considering factors such as tone preference, type of pickups, budget, brand reputation, and playability, you can find the perfect black Stratocaster with a black pickguard that suits your needs . Happy shopping!

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Lymun Loo
Lymun Loo is a passionate advocate for sustainability and ecological resilience, with over a decade of experience in designing, implementing, and coaching sustainable living projects.

Inspired by the Transition Towns movement, Permaculture principles, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Lymun is dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to embrace sustainable lifestyles. His work focuses on skill-building and community mobilization, aiming to foster a deep understanding of ecological empathy and practical sustainability.

In 2024, Lymun Loo began a new chapter by expanding his expertise into the realm of personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition allows him to leverage his extensive background in sustainable living to critically assess products used in everyday life.

Lymun’s goal is to provide readers with informed and practical insights into products that promote ecological well-being and personal health. His blog now serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to make sustainable choices in their daily lives.