Stratocaster

Fender's American Special Series guitars are a testimony to the genius of Leo Fender’s original concept for a mass-produced solidbody guitar. Every single detail, like the exceptionally tight neck pocket, the immaculate finish, and the smooth-as-silk fretwork, is as close to perfection as Fender has ever come in its history. The fact that Fender is still able to build these guitars in the U.S. and sell them for considerably less than previous American models certainly would have made Leo very proud. The American Special Telecaster is a classic Tele in every sense. The Texas Special pickups offer plenty of aggressive character, with percussive, explosive attack and brilliant, singing treble. The harder you dig in, the more it gives back. The neck has the smooth, satiny feel of real wood instead of the artificial, plastic feel that many modern urethane neck finishes impart. The Strat models are both fine examples of Leo’s crowning achievement that will also please longtime fans. With its humbucker bridge pickup, the HSS model is a rocking beast with fierce midrange and delightful crunch when played through an overdriven amp. It covers EVH territory quite nicely, but it also delivers timeless Strat tones with the middle and neck pickups engaged. Its slim neck is exceptionally comfortable and makes playing honestly effortless. If you prefer 100 percent authentic Strat tones, the American Special Stratocaster does the trick quite nicely. THE BOTTOM LINE Fender's American Speical series Telecasters and Stratocasters are truly special instruments that will please even the most hardcore Strat and Tele enthusiasts. These outstanding gigging and studio workhorses put U.S. craftsmanship within the reach of everyday players once again, without forcing them to make any significant compromises. For the first time in history, the “real thing” has never been more affordable for Fender fans.