Well this comes as close to perfect for the single coil sound as I can imagine. I wanted to avoid writing this review in the immediate afterglow of purchase, so I have waited almost three months. Most of my playing is direct recording through a Line 6 Pod, V 2.0, though at this point I'm also driving the Pod through a Blues Junior. I play almost all original music ranging from blues through classic Rock 'n Roll style, to a Mark Knopflerish kind of style. The articulation of this instrument is incredible.
Every subtle nuance is clear and distinct.
When playing clean, there are layers upon layers of delicate overtones that sustain forever. I believe that this is largely because of the amazing fit between the neck and the body. One very important point - trash the Fender bullet strings that come with it as fast as you can rip them off. I put on D'Addarrio 11's and the combo makes for a perfect marriage. I've read lots of reviews which complain about the workmanship on Fender products.