Hello Kitty is a fictional cat (yes, really!) created back in 1974 by Japanese company Sanrio. Originally aimed at prepubescent girls, Hello Kitty is now popular among teens and adults. Her image has adorned cosmetics, jewellery - even cars - and now she’s taking on the guitar world.

Most guitar manufacturers have had a go at designing guitars aimed at female players. To be honest, most of them are nothing more than regular guitars sprayed pink or covered in glitter. There is an element of that with this Squier, but by aligning itself with a hugely successful character like the cute little Kitty, Fender has produced probably the least patronising guitar for young girls - and boys in touch with their feminine side, of course.

OK, all you metalheads and hairy-arsed Dimebag fans, you can stop laughing now. Underneath the cutie pie paint and feline scratchplate on the Hello Kitty Stratocaster lurks a really good little guitar. Fender doesn’t mess about with its Squier range. The finish quality of both the body and neck is great. Yep, this guitar feels like a proper Strat.

Verdict

On a strap it feels light and well balanced and tuning stability is spot on too thanks to the fixed bridge. Plugged in you might expect this guitar to whimper like a kitten, but whack on some distortion and Hello Kitty roars like a lion. Hey, it might look cute and cuddly, but this cool little guitar is no pussy.

4 Stars

Pros: Fun to play, sounds great.
Cons: No good for kitty haters.

Buy: Squier Hello Kitty Stratocaster is currently available from Hartnoll Guitars and Thomann

Next: Vintage VR100CR