Another reason Antonio loves the Strat is the ease and speed with which pickguards can be swapped out for a fresh tonal perspective. The top two photos show ’guards with Lace hot humbuckers (Nitro Hemis), while the bottom two are loaded with Fender HSS and single-coils (a Fender Pure Vintage ’59 Strat set). During rehearsals or studio time, Aguilar will carry pre-loaded pickguards in a messenger bag for quick swapping.