Last update 5/2/2024
Ask anybody on the street to draw a picture of an electric guitar, and we’ll bet they’ll draw something that resembles the Fender American Professional Stratocaster. Yep – it’s that iconic – and it has been a benchmark for the entire industry since its introduction back in 1954.
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For a guitar model to be embraced by so many for so long. It had to have been pretty great right from the start! But that doesn’t mean that Fender hasn’t made improvements and upgrades over the years. A case in point is the Fender American Professional Stratocaster.
Fender American Professional Stratocaster Review
The American Professional embodies all that has made the Strat the guitar of choice for countless guitarists. Note: photos featured here are of the gorgeous sienna sunburst finish.
Body and neck
Right from the first glance, you know you’re dealing with a force to be reckoned with. There’s no doubting the classic Strat shape.
The body is constructed from a solid piece of alder to help achieve that sacred Strat sound. A carefully applied gloss polyurethane finish adds to the visual appeal as well.
The maple neck is home to either a maple or a rosewood fingerboard. Furthermore, it comes loaded with 22 ‘narrow-tall style frets. A Bi-Flex truss rod also gives you the strength and stability needed to stabilize your setup.
What about the pickups
The electronics package is a top-shelf on the American Professional Strat. Single coil pickups can be had for a dime a dozen these days.
However, Fender has installed a high-end set of Tim Shaw-designed V-Mod pickups. They are all controlled by the standard 5-position pickup selector switch, a single volume, and two-tone knobs for good measure.
One great feature is the treble bleed circuit, which helps fight the muddiness that can come out in a guitar tone when the volume knob is turned down.
How’s the hardware?
Compared to older Strat models, the hardware is among the best you will also come across. One sticking point for many Strat players over the years is the actual functionality of the tremolo bridge. However, you’ll find a two-point fulcrum system on the American Professional. Coupled with the Fender-branded staggered (and sealed) tuning machines, they can enhance tuning stability.
The tremolo
A nice touch is the tremolo arm itself. Instead of having to thread it in, it simply pops into place. In addition, it also has a tension adjustment, so it can either fall out of the way or stay right in place.
It all depends on your preference).
Bone nut
You’ll also find a genuine bone nut instead of any synthetic material. Bone nuts are touted to transfer the maximum energy to the guitar’s saddle. The bone nut is a worthy addition to this instrument.
Hard case
Topping all this off is an Elite molded hardshell case—just the right accessory to protect your investment.
What about its sound and playability
These features add to a guitar that delivers where it matters the most: how well it sounds and plays. The premium pickup selection and circuit design give that great vintage Fender tone all night long with the five-position switch. You can replicate just about any classic Strat tone that you can think of.
It also feels silky smooth, combining the Modern “Deep C” neck profile and the fret wire design. It results in a guitar that could be considered the very definition of ‘playability.’
The American Professional Stratocaster certainly isn’t among Fender’s cheapest Strat models. However, arguing that it isn’t worth every penny is hard. I am considering the exceptional build quality and versatile electronics setup.
Summary
The Fender Stratocaster stands as an enduring icon in the world of guitars, embodying a legacy of innovation and versatility. Its timeless design, versatile tonal palette, and remarkable playability have made it a favorite among guitar players over the decades and, indeed the generations.
The guitars shimmering highs to the gutsy lows, the Stratocaster’s pickups deliver a signature sound that has defined countless legendary recordings. Its comfortable contours and effortless neck make it a joy to play.
The Fender Stratocaster’s iconic reputation continues to evolve. Its timeless appeal makes it a cornerstone in the world of electric guitars, deserving of its place in musical history.
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Check out Amazon’s Fender Stratocaster reviews and prices.
Resources
American Professional II Stratocaster®. Electric Guitars. (n.d.). Retrieved February 15, 2022, from https://www.fender.com/en-AU/electric-guitars/stratocaster/american-professional-ii-stratocaster/0113902719.html
