Hi there,

As a long-time strat player, I can tell you that strats in the SSS style (three single coils) will have some hum. The hum is cancelled in positions 2 and 4 like you said, with the neck and middle, or bridge and middle.

I would not say that you lose any type of distinctive Strat sound, that's all up to you. I do prefer the sound most when I'm only using the neck pickup, it's a very warm, iconic Strat sound there. But if you put it into the 4th position or 2nd position, the guitar still sounds good and it still has that Strat quack/glassy tone.

Some strats, as you may know, come with an HSS setup (humbucker, single, single) and that might be something you're interested in. I've seen some models with two humbuckers as well.

If you want a single coil sound you can always try the "noiseless" pickups that Fender makes, and other pickup companies make them too. I have heard of stacked single coils but have no experience with them. Also! If you try and clean up your wiring and improve the shielding, it may help with the humming a little as well.

I hope that helps!