Gathering an impressive 20% of the public vote, Squier's Classic Vibe Strat is a firm favourite in the MusicRadar office and more than worthy of it's bronze medal in this list.

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“If you can't stretch to the Fender Classic Series '50s Stratocaster, this is definitely the guitar to buy.” (Read the full Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster review)

Why you love it:

“Squier Classic Vibe 50s Strat - yes!” (Thanks, Deluxe_65)

“Yamaha Pacifica is a good one no doubt. I hadn't thought about them till I noticed the posts above. However... I'd add another vote for one of the Squire Strat models. Reason is that they make a great platform to mod on. Cheap enough to throw a pickup upgrade etc.
Not sure which one I'd go with now. Jim.” (Thanks, toyhouse)

“The Yamaha Pacifica 112 may be well made but it lacks the mojo of the Squier Classic Vibe 50's Stratocaster with it's Fender vibe - the build quality of the one's I've tried is also top notch for the money.” (Thanks Fretwired)

“Squier classic vibe 60s, just pips my Pacifica 112 vcx to the winning post!” (Thanks, Chinster)

“I Got the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Strat a few months ago and it is amazing and it was only £225.” (Thanks, ACeDCe)

“Squier's 50s Classic Vibe Strat is hard to beat in this division...” (Thanks, ChrisVinnicombe)

BUY: Squier Classic Vibe 50s/60s Stratocaster currently available from Andertons Music Co. | Thomann | Soundslive | GuitarGuitar | Coda Music

Next page: and in second place...