Yep, Tig, it looks like they are getting closer and closer to the quality of the Japanese made Squiers of the early 80s, and at great prices. I just hope they continue down this path, because Squier is certainly becoming an addictive gateway drug into Fenderland...
At this stage, I'm just not able to shell out the moolah that even an MIM Strat commands these days... SX guitars are a good alternative, and dirt cheap, but I've never really been a modder, and don't have the patience to switch out tuners, nut, and pups on a guitar to make it sound the way I want it to. I've wanted to build a partscaster to my specs, but am glad that with this guitar I won't have to... it looks like it's got what I want without having to mod. I've tried those Duncan Designed pickups on the Deluxe Squier Strats, and they sound fantastic through a good amph.
Guitars:
Fender 2006 MIM Fender Stratocaster HSS in 3TS
Ibanez RG 570 with a bridge Invader
ESP M II Deluxe with a Tune-o-Matic bridge
Eleanor, the magical, mystical Road Worn wonder Tele
Blackstar HT Club 40