Using this Fender Custom Shop Stratocaster is a breeze. First, make sure your guitar is properly tuned using the vintage - style tuning machines with the Fender logo. Plug it into an amplifier and start strumming. You can experiment with the different pickups - the handwound Strat® Dual Mag II pickups offer a wide range of tones. When not in use, keep it in the FCS Strat/Tele black case to protect it from dust and damage. For maintenance, clean the fretboard regularly with a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime. Check the strings periodically and replace them when they start to sound dull. Also, make sure to keep the guitar in a stable environment, away from extreme heat or cold, as this can affect the body and neck of the guitar.