ST-20HSS CA Standard Series : Unexpected value

For that kind of money I will take that guitar any day.

Everything nicely packed with no chance to get damaged with normal shipping. Guitar comes with 2 wrenches, cable and trem arm. Finish looks better than on photos with zero imperfections.

Neck feels a little sticky(semi satin) so I will propably sand it down just because I like the feel of barre wood but for many people it will not be an issue. Neck is skinny so playing is very fast and comfortable with no frets sticking out. Tunning keys are much better than on my TE-52, they have no sluck and they tune pretty good, but changing to some brand stuff will not hurt. Frets ale leveled, even with pretty low action i get fret buzz only on low strings just because the strings are 9 gauge and they vibrate to much, 10 gauge eliminate that issue.

Potentiometers and swith works pretty good. No need to change. Same with pickups, for that kind of money they are more than good. Neck body connection is pretty good but my recomedation is to remove this plastic plate underneath metal plate just because guitar wil have more sustain. Jack is pretty tight but it is still better than too loose.

Strings are ok but my suggest is changing to at least 10 gauge cause 9 feels loose and they cut fingers pretty badly. And tone sounds just too thin.

Setup is mediocre at best, action is really high(you can propably play with slide) and intonation requires adjustment. Neck relief is fine.These things shouldn't take more than 10-20 minutes so it shouldn't be an issue since action is much more about personal preference. I suggest to other people to check if tunning machines screws are not too loose cause it is an issue with alot of guitars and it is like 2 minutes work.

Overall I am very satisfied. Components look cheap but they work great and craftsmanship is like on guitars 2-3 times the price. Strings sound weird and it's 9 gauge so they require replacement but that should be the first thing when you get new guitar.