Strats

What is the best strat for under $900?

Not a big strat man myself but I have used some really great ones in the past - have a look out for the Yngwie Malmsteen signature Fender strat with the YJM Dimarzio pups and the fully scalloped neck. The vintage white is particularly cool - you could probably get one on E-Bay for around that price.

Depends on what you're looking for. I've had my eye on the American Special mahogany strat for a while. It's a little over your price range (runs about $1,000), with mahogany body, rosewood fretboard and an HSS pickup setup. It's a really nice guitar for the money. If you're looking for a more traditional strat, I'd recommend checking out the Highway 1 strats. Almost bought one of those with a 'bucker a few years back, but the newer ones have the traditional SSS pickup setup. They run about $750-$800.

I'd suggest going to a big music store if possible and test drive a few. You can get a new made in Mexico for about $400, a Standard American for about $600. The quality of the MiMs are quite good imo, and I bought 2 over the last 2 months from Ebay. I have a vintage American from 1984 that still screams.

There are subtle differences 'tween the American and MiMs, but you'd have to play them to feel/hear the difference. I did a review on a MiM and drew some comparisons 'tween a MiM and an American that might be helpful. But I think the key thing is for you to try one out for yourself.