My strat hasent let me down, goining out of tune or sound.

I think people are sometimes put off strats because they are still very much the same in looks and shape as when they first came out, and other guitars often have a very differnent look. They are smoothe, comfy, a dream to play and very reliable in build, sound and looks.

Then again, gibson players prefer gibsons, ibanez players prefer ibanez.

The answer, go out and try as many guitars you can before you buy.