The Ultimate Fender Electric Guitar Buying Guide

Fender electric guitars have been defining the sound of modern music for decades. From rock legends to jazz bass virtuosos, Fender guitars are synonymous with quality, innovation, and versatility. This guide will help you navigate Fender‘s incredible lineup to find the perfect guitar for your musical needs—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.

About Fender Guitars

Founded in the USA in 1946 by Leo Fender, Fender has become one of the most iconic names in the world of musical instruments. Known for pioneering designs like the Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Jazzmaster, Fender guitars are used by countless legendary musicians, including Jeff Beck. Fender’s innovation extends beyond electric guitars to bass guitars, amps, and even acoustic guitars, offering something for every type of player. With a commitment to accessibility, Fender also offers left-handed models and beginner-friendly options.

Best Fender Models

Fender’s lineup includes some of the most recognizable electric guitars in history alongside exciting modern offerings:

• Fender Stratocaster: Known simply as the Strat, this model features a double-cutaway body, making it one of the most versatile guitars ever made. Models like the Player II Stratocaster and Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster come in stunning finishes like a 2-Color Sunburst, Olympic White, and Texas Tea.
• Fender Telecaster: The Tele is Fender’s original solid-body electric guitar. Its simplicity and single-coil pickups make it perfect for country, blues, and rock genres. Check out the Fender Player II Telecaster or 70th Anniversary Telecaster for modern innovations in classic designs.
• Fender Jazzmaster: Featuring an offset body, the Jazzmaster is a go-to for surf, indie, and experimental genres. Look for the Fender Vintera II Jazzmaster for a vintage-inspired vibe.
• Fender Jaguar: Compact and unique, the Jaguar stands out with its shorter scale and versatile tone controls. Limited editions of the Jaguar offer finishes like surf green and white blonde.
• Fender Mustang: This lightweight, short-scale guitar is perfect for players seeking a compact design without compromising tone.
• Starcaster: A semi-hollow guitar with a distinctive body shape, the Starcaster delivers rich, warm tones for jazz and alternative music.
• Fender Deluxe Series: Combining affordability and premium features, models like the Deluxe Telecaster and Deluxe Stratocaster are perfect for intermediate players.
• Fender Custom Shop: For those seeking the pinnacle of craftsmanship, the Fender Custom Shop creates bespoke instruments tailored to your exact specifications.

Choosing the Right Fender Electric Guitar for You

Budget

Fender has guitars for every budget. For beginners, the Squier line offers affordable yet reliable options. Intermediate players might gravitate toward the Player II Stratocaster or Fender Deluxe Series, while professionals can indulge in the premium craftsmanship of the Fender Custom Shop or American Vintage II Series.

How it Sounds

• The single-coil pickups on the Strat and Tele deliver bright, crisp tones.
• For a fuller sound, opt for models like the Stratocaster HSS, which includes a humbucker.
• Semi-hollow models like the Starcaster offer a warmer tone that is ideal for jazz.

Choosing the Right Bridge

Fender guitars offer a variety of bridge options. Models like the Fender American Professional II Stratocaster feature Floyd Rose tremolo systems for expressive pitch control, while fixed bridges provide tuning stability, perfect for rhythm guitarists.

Which Guitars Are Best for Which Musical Genre

• Rock and Blues: The Stratocaster and Telecaster are classics for these genres.
• Jazz: Opt for the Starcaster or Jazzmaster.
• Country: The Telecaster is a staple, especially in finishes like butterscotch blonde.
• Indie and Alternative: The Jaguar and Mustang shine in these genres.

The Neck

Fender necks come in a variety of shapes and materials. The maple fingerboard is bright and responsive, while the rosewood fingerboard provides a warmer tone. Players looking for a vintage feel might prefer thicker necks in the American Vintage II Series, while the Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster offers a modern, sleek neck design.

Amps and Pedals

Pair your Fender guitar with amps or amplifiers for an authentic Fender tone. Models like the Mustang amp are versatile for practice or performance. For tone-shaping, explore effects pedals like overdrive, reverb, and delay.

The Frets

Fender guitars feature 21 or 22 frets, with medium jumbo frets on models like the Player Stratocaster for comfortable playability. Modern designs often include 24 frets, ideal for shredding solos.

Pick Your Fender Electric Guitar at Eddie’s Guitars

At Eddie’s Guitars, we carry a wide range of Fender electric guitars, from beginner options like the Player II Stratocaster to premium models like the Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster. Choose from classic finishes like 3-Color Sunburst or bold options like Texas Tea. We also stock accessories like gig bags, pedals, cases, guitar straps, and amplifiers to complete your setup.

Whether you’re drawn to the iconic Strat, the classic Tele, or the adventurous Jazzmaster, Eddie’s Guitars is your destination for new arrivals and Fender classics.

Visit our showroom today and discover the guitars that are perfect for you.

Schedule an appointment with us today to get started.