TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar vs TOSTAR 39" HSS Electric Guitar (2026): Key Differences
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This comparison examines the tostar sss DIY electric guitar vs 39 hss electric guitar. Both are full-size, ST-shaped instruments made for beginners. They share the same overall length and width. The main difference lies in their pickup layouts and construction. One is a complete DIY kit requiring assembly, while the other is a pre-built guitar. You need to decide if you want to build your own instrument or play one immediately.
Key differences
| Aspect | TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit | TOSTAR 39" HSS Electric Guitar Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup Configuration | SSS | HSS |
| Body Material | Mahogany | Not listed |
| Fretboard Material | Purpleheart | Not listed |
| Neck Material | Maple | European and Canadian Maple |
| Assembly Type | DIY Kit | Pre-built |
Which one should you choose?
Choose TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit if
- You want to assemble the guitar yourself using included tools and hardware.
- You prefer a mahogany body with a purpleheart fingerboard for specific tonal characteristics.
- You are interested in a classic SSS pickup layout for versatile tone shaping.
Choose TOSTAR 39" HSS Electric Guitar Kit if
- You want a ready-to-play instrument without assembly work.
- You need an HSS pickup configuration for noise reduction and heavier tones.
- You prefer a neck made from European and Canadian maple for added durability.
Verdict: Choose the DIY kit if you enjoy building instruments and want to customize the finish. Choose the pre-built 39" model if you want immediate playability with a noise-canceling HSS setup. Both offer full-size dimensions suitable for beginners.
TOSTAR SSS vs 39 HSS Specs
Pickup Configuration
The TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit uses a single-coil single-coil single-coil (SSS) layout. This setup offers bright, clear tones with distinct character. You get one volume knob and two tone knobs for shaping sound. The TOSTAR 39 HSS Electric Guitar Kit features a humbucker single-coil single-coil (HSS) configuration. The humbucker in the bridge position cancels noise and delivers higher output. This allows for cleaner rock and metal tones without excessive hum. The HSS layout provides more versatility for heavier styles, while the SSS remains classic for blues and pop.
Fretboard Material
Wood choice affects feel and tone. The TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit specifies a purpleheart fingerboard. Purpleheart is known for its density and unique reddish-purple color. It provides a smooth playing surface and contributes to a balanced tone. The TOSTAR 39 HSS Electric Guitar Kit data does not explicitly list the fretboard material. It highlights a European and Canadian maple neck, which often implies a maple fingerboard, but this is not confirmed in the provided specs. Without explicit data, the SSS kit offers a specific material advantage for those who prefer purpleheart.
Body Material
The body wood influences resonance and weight. The TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit features a resonant mahogany body. Mahogany is prized for its warm, rich low-end response and sustain. It creates a solid body structure that is reliable for practice. The TOSTAR 39 HSS Electric Guitar Kit does not specify its body material in the provided data. It describes an ST-shaped body with a glossy finish. While the shape is clear, the wood type remains unknown. The SSS kit provides a known tonewood profile, offering a predictable warm tone baseline.
Neck Material
Neck construction impacts playability and durability. The TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit includes a strong maple neck. Maple is hard and stable, offering a bright attack and quick response. The TOSTAR 39 HSS Electric Guitar Kit specifies European and Canadian maple necks. This blend aims to enhance durability and strength while bringing out natural wood grain. Both kits use maple, but the 39 model highlights specific regional sources. The SSS kit uses standard maple. Both provide a solid foundation for beginners, with the 39 model offering slightly more specific material details.
Target Audience
Both guitars are designed for beginners, but their approaches differ. The TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit is a build-your-own kit. It targets hobby builders and students who want to learn assembly. It includes all parts for construction, appealing to those interested in the build process. The TOSTAR 39 HSS Electric Guitar Kit is a pre-assembled instrument. It targets beginners who want to play immediately. It includes an amplifier and accessories. The 39 model is better for players seeking a ready-to-play experience, while the SSS kit suits those wanting a DIY project.
Which tostar guitar kit fits you
Beginners wanting a complete ready-to-play setup
The TOSTAR 39 HSS model arrives as a full package including an amplifier, strap, capo, and cable. Its HSS pickup configuration offers versatile tones for rock and metal. The contoured body reduces waist pressure during long practice sessions, making it ideal for players who want to start playing immediately without assembly.
Builders interested in customizing their own instrument
This DIY kit lets you assemble the guitar yourself using pre-drilled holes and basic tools. It features a mahogany body, maple neck, and purpleheart fingerboard for balanced tone. The SSS layout provides classic bright single-coil sounds. You get full control over the build process and final appearance of your instrument.
Players seeking warm vintage tones with durability
The TOSTAR SSS DIY kit uses mahogany for its body, which adds warmth to the sound. The maple neck and purpleheart fretboard create a durable structure. The SSS configuration delivers clear, distinct tones. This setup suits beginners who prefer traditional tonewood combinations and want to learn how electric guitars are constructed.
The products compared
TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit
Best for: Beginners building their first guitar
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Canadian Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Purpleheart
- Pickup Configuration
- SSS
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Body Type
- Solid body
View on Amazon: TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit Affiliate link
This TOSTAR DIY kit lets you assemble a full-size solid body electric guitar. It uses a mahogany body, maple neck, and purpleheart fretboard. The SSS pickup layout includes one volume and two tone knobs with a 5-way switch. You get all hardware, strings, and tools. It suits beginners who want to learn guitar construction and customize their own instrument.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body for resonant tone
- Maple neck with purpleheart fretboard
- SSS pickup configuration with 5-way switch
- Complete hardware and tool kit included
- Pre-drilled holes for easy assembly
Cons
- Requires manual assembly of all components
- No amplifier included in the package
- Solderless design limits circuit customization
Good fit if
- You want to learn how electric guitars are built
- You prefer a classic ST body shape
- You need a complete kit with all necessary hardware
Skip if
- You want a ready-to-play instrument without assembly
- You prefer an HSS pickup configuration
- You need an amplifier included in the box
Verdict: TOSTAR DIY Electric Guitar Kit ST is a practical choice for beginners who want to build their own instrument. It provides all the parts needed for a full assembly project.
TOSTAR 39" HSS Electric Guitar Kit
Best for: beginners seeking a versatile HSS starter kit
- Neck Material
- European and Canadian maple
- Pickup Configuration
- HSS
- Body Type
- ST-shaped
- Target Audience
- Beginners
- Dimensions
- 39.4 × 13 × 2.36 inches
View on Amazon: TOSTAR 39" HSS Electric Guitar Kit Affiliate link
This TOSTAR kit includes a full-size ST-shaped electric guitar with an HSS pickup configuration and a matching amplifier. The body features a contoured design for comfort, while the neck is made from European and Canadian maple. It comes with accessories like a strap, capo, and tremolo arm. The HSS setup helps cancel noise, making it suitable for clean tones in rock, pop, and blues. It is designed for beginners and students.
Pros
- HSS pickup configuration for noise reduction
- European and Canadian maple neck
- Contoured ST-shaped body for comfort
- Includes amplifier and accessories
Cons
- HSS pickups may lack the raw power of pure humbuckers for high-gain metal
- Full-size body may be large for smaller players
- Kit assembly required
Good fit if
- You want a complete beginner setup with an amp
- You prefer the versatility of HSS pickups
- You need a comfortable contoured body for long practice sessions
Skip if
- You require a pre-assembled instrument
- You only play heavy metal and need high-output humbuckers
- You prefer a smaller than full-size guitar
Verdict: TOSTAR 39" HSS Electric Guitar Kit provides a versatile HSS setup and comfortable body shape for beginners. It fits players who want a complete, noise-reduced starter package.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | TOSTAR SSS DIY Electric Guitar Kit | TOSTAR 39" HSS Electric Guitar Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Body Material | Mahogany | not stated |
| Neck Material | Canadian Maple | European and Canadian maple |
| Fretboard Material | Purpleheart | not stated |
| Pickup Configuration | SSS | HSS |
| Number of Strings | 6 | not stated |
| Body Type | Solid body | ST-shaped |
| Target Audience | not stated | Beginners |
| Dimensions | 39.4 × 13 × 2.36 inches | 39.4 × 13 × 2.36 inches |
| Size | Full | Full Size |
| Color | ST | Metallic Sky Burst |
| Model | DIY-ST | TST-320-SBM |
Frequently asked questions
Is the TOSTAR SSS DIY kit a complete guitar?
No. It is a kit that requires assembly. You receive all parts needed for construction. This includes the body, neck, and hardware. You must build the instrument yourself. The TOSTAR 39 HSS model is a complete package. It includes an amplifier, strap, capo, and cable.
What is the difference between SSS and HSS pickups?
SSS uses three single-coil pickups. HSS combines a humbucker with two single-coils. The TOSTAR SSS kit features the SSS layout. This offers bright, clear tones. The TOSTAR 39 HSS kit uses an HSS setup. This provides versatile tones for rock and metal styles.
Do both guitars have the same body dimensions?
Yes. Both instruments are full-size. They share identical dimensions. Each measures 39.4 inches in length. The width is 13 inches. The height is 2.36 inches. The physical footprint of both kits is the same.
Which kit is better for beginners who want a ready-to-play setup?
The TOSTAR 39 HSS kit is the better choice. It arrives as a full package. You get an amplifier, strap, capo, and cable. The SSS kit requires you to build the guitar first. The HSS model is designed for players seeking a complete starter package.
Can I customize the color of the TOSTAR SSS DIY kit?
The data lists the model as ST. It does not specify color options for the DIY kit. The TOSTAR 39 HSS kit comes in Metallic Sky Burst. You cannot choose colors for the SSS kit based on the provided specifications.
Which guitar has noise-reduction features?
The TOSTAR 39 HSS kit offers noise reduction. Its HSS pickup configuration helps reduce hum. The SSS kit uses three single-coils. These are prone to interference. The HSS setup is better for noise reduction.