My season for the original question is that I've always had problems with string balance on Strats with my preferred gauge of strings, i.e. 10's
The high E is usually the worst by far but using a thicker string is not an option especially if i'm playing modern country type stuff.
I don't like fingerboards with a tight 7.5 radius so have mine altered to suit me. One strat has a 14" to 20" compound radius and my other has a flat board.
These don't go well with the traditional strat pickup polepiece stagger.
Steve T, if you're coming to the next North Notts meeting on Easter Sunday, I'd appreciate a look at thore Entwistles.
Cheers guys,
Pete