I would just like to say, first of all, that I really hate the "Post Quick Reply" button that doesn't disappear when I hit "Reply" within a post. I can't count the number of times I have accidentally erased everything I just wrote, such as what I just did now.
Anyway, I think the N3s are great. The new Deluxe Strat (I have it in Ash with tobacco sunburst, which is absolutely stunning) is the nicest guitar I own and certainly one of the best I have ever played. I haven't ever owned a Standard Strat, but I did have a G&L Legacy for a little while. The only real point of comparison I have is between what my guitar sounds like and what famous Strat players sound like in recordings. From that, I can say that my neck pickup doesn't seem as bright as SRV's, but then again, I'm running through an Orange amp, which he probably isn't. Based on Strats I have played and heard, however, I would say that the N3s sound just like any other Strat, but without the noise. I'm sure there is SOME difference, since it's a different design and all, but not one that matters or that causes the guitar to lose its essential Stratiness. So it sounds like a Strat, but looks better, plays better, and stays in tune better, plus you get some weird tonal options you'll probably never use. Personally, I don't think I would ever bother with a Standard after owning this guy.