Description: An excellent lightweight sunburst Strat® from just after the CBS takeover of Fender® in 1965. With its round, wide neck profile, this one is typical of the immediate post-CBS era, and as such, provides a unique feel among the shallower necks of many Strats. After the CBS takeover, many older, leftover parts were frequently being used for Strats. Here is a perfect example of such a guitar.
This one is all original, with matching '65 neck and body, '66 pots, and black bottom pickups. The playability is incredible, with low action and no buzzing or intonation issues. The frets are also original with life left in them. The true highlight of the guitar is the pre-CBS black bottom pickups, which each have their own amazing characteristics. The neck is smooth and warm, perfect for rhythm playing. The bridge pickup is bright and twangy, but not the harsh bright that you can sometimes find in Strats. The middle position brings the tone full circle as it highlights and blends what the other two pickups offer. Overall, the guitar is in very good condition with little wear.
Summary
Body: Alder with very red three-tone sunburst finish.
Neck: Maple with rosewood fretboard. Neck dates to september of 1965
Pickups/Hardware: Three fat black-bottom Strat® pickups. All original hardware. Pots date to '66.
Setup/Playability: Very smooth and responsive, warm tone.
Cosmetic Condition: Very clean, with minor checking and a number of dings. One pickguard crack.
Modifications: Original logo has been sanded off, 50s style logo reapplied on top of laquer.
Original logo has been sanded off, 50s style logo reapplied on top of laquer.
Weight: 7 lbs 6 oz