I bought this guitar because i love strats although as a beginner i dont know much about setting one up. The guitar came in perfect condition, but was not very playable out of the box, very high action, pick-ups too low. I took to a music store locally where i got it set up, and now it holds tune much better and sound amazing for the money and for my first ever guitar. I would recommend that if you buy this you upgrade some parts like the nut ( go for a graphtech), the tuners ( for better ones or locking ones) and if you want to go all out get better pick-ups. I totally recommend this guitar even for beginners ( maybe you'll get a better setup out of the box). Will buy a HB again.