Fender's New American Professional Classic Guitars: A Blend of Vintage Style and Modern Performance
The Ultimate Guitar Evolution
Fender, a legendary name in the music industry, has unveiled its latest masterpiece - the American Professional Classic series. This new line of guitars and basses is a testament to Fender's commitment to blending the best of vintage aesthetics with modern playability.
A Classic Lineup
The American Professional Classic features some of Fender's most iconic silhouettes, including the Stratocaster, Jaguar, Telecaster, Precision Bass, and Mustang Bass. Each model is a modern interpretation of a classic design, offering a unique blend of old-school charm and contemporary performance enhancements.
Vintage Meets Modern
One of the standout features of this series is the use of overwound vintage-style pickups. These pickups, based on Fender's American Vintage II line, provide a warm and rich tone with increased output. Combined with modern aspects like a comfortable "C"-shaped neck, these guitars offer the best of both worlds.
An Accessible Pro-Grade Instrument
Priced between $1,500 and $1,600, these guitars provide an affordable entry point into the world of professional-grade, stage-ready instruments. They're a few hundred dollars less than the American Professional II Stratocaster, making them an attractive option for musicians seeking an American-made Fender instrument without breaking the bank.
A Contemporary Icon
Justin Norvell, Executive Vice President at Fender Products and Manufacturing, describes the American Pro as a "contemporary icon." The American Professional Classic series leans more towards the classic side, offering a great blend of vintage aesthetics and modern performance, making it an ideal choice for players seeking an authentic Fender experience.
Built for the Road
Fender has emphasized the durability of this line, designed for "night after night" usage. This is where the collaboration with hardcore band Turnstile comes into play. Turnstile, known for their energetic live performances, are the perfect ambassadors for these guitars. Their physically demanding stage presence requires an instrument that can keep up, and the American Professional Classic series fits the bill.
The Turnstile Connection
Pat McCrory, Turnstile's guitarist, highlights the importance of durability and versatility in their instruments. "When you're constantly on the move, having a familiar and reliable guitar is crucial. We need something that sounds consistent, versatile, and durable, and these guitars deliver on all fronts."
Spec Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the specs for each model in the American Professional Classic series:
- American Professional Classic Stratocaster ($1,499.99): Coastline '57 single-coil Strat pickups, "C"-shaped neck, 9.5"-radius maple fingerboard, and medium jumbo frets.
- American Professional Classic Jaguar ($1,599.99): Coastline '65 single-coil Jaguar pickups, alder body, "C"-shaped neck, 9.5"-radius rosewood fingerboard, and medium jumbo frets.
- American Professional Classic Telecaster ($1,499.99): Coastline '63 single-coil Tele pickups, alder body, "C"-shaped neck, 9.5"-radius maple fingerboard, and medium jumbo frets.
- Professional Classic Precision Bass ($1,599.99): Coastline '60 split-coil Precision Bass pickup, alder body, "C"-shaped neck, rosewood fingerboard, and Fender "lollipop" tuners.
- American Professional Classic Mustang Bass ($1,599.99): Coastline '70 Mustang Bass split-coil pickup, alder body, "C"-shaped neck, maple fingerboard, and Fender "lollipop" tuners.
The Final Word
The American Professional Classic series is a testament to Fender's ability to innovate while staying true to its roots. With its blend of vintage style and modern performance, it offers an accessible and reliable option for musicians seeking an authentic Fender experience. So, are you ready to rock with the new American Professional Classic? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
