Fender Stratocaster

Fender Stratocaster

The Fender Stratocaster is an iconic electric guitar model that has played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music. Introduced by Fender in 1954, the Stratocaster revolutionized the guitar industry with its innovative design and versatile features. With its double-cutaway body, contoured shape, and three single-coil pickups, the Stratocaster offered enhanced playability and a wide range of tonal possibilities. Over the years, the Stratocaster has remained a favorite among guitarists across various genres, from blues and rock to country and beyond. Its timeless design and renowned craftsmanship have solidified its status as one of the most beloved and recognizable electric guitars in history.

The Fender Stratocaster has been associated with numerous legendary players throughout its history. Jimi Hendrix, known for his revolutionary approach to the electric guitar, played a right-handed Stratocaster flipped upside down, creating his signature sound. Eric Clapton, often referred to as "Slowhand," utilized a Stratocaster to achieve his soulful bluesy tone, particularly during his time with Cream. Stevie Ray Vaughan, another guitar virtuoso, showcased his fiery style and mastery of the blues on a heavily played Stratocaster. These guitarists, along with countless others such as Jeff Beck, David Gilmour, and John Mayer, have made the Fender Stratocaster an instrument of choice for its versatility, tonal range, and enduring appeal.

Features & Specs for the Fender Stratocaster

  • Body: Solid body construction typically made of alder, ash, or sometimes basswood.
  • Neck: Bolt-on maple neck with a comfortable C-shaped profile.
  • Fingerboard: Most commonly made of maple or rosewood.
  • Frets: 21 or 22 medium-jumbo frets (some models may have vintage-style smaller frets or larger modern frets).
  • Scale Length: 25.5 inches (648 mm).
  • Pickups: Three single-coil pickups, usually in the configuration of bridge, middle, and neck positions.
  • Controls: Master volume control, two tone controls (one for the neck and middle pickups, and one for the bridge pickup), and a five-way pickup selector switch.
  • Bridge: Synchronized tremolo bridge system, often referred to as a "tremolo" or "whammy" bar.
  • Tuners: Standard die-cast or locking tuners (depending on the model).
  • Nut: Synthetic bone or other materials, designed to guide the strings across the fretboard.
  • Hardware: Chrome or nickel-plated hardware, including knobs, switches, and bridge components.
  • Finish: Various finishes are available, including solid colors, sunbursts, and natural wood grain finishes.
Jimi Hendrix playing a Fender Stratocaster

Fender Stratocaster