The Ultimate Guitar
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The Ultimate Guitar by James Closs 3
Designed by Leo Fender in California
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The Designer 1950:
Leo Fender set out to revolutionize the electric guitar. A newcomer to the industry, Fender had found success with his previous models, the Telecaster and the Precision Bass. Driven by practicality, he abandoned previous conventions and methods of guitar design, building something wholly unique. Fender created a new model that was both highly functional and uniquely stylish-the now-ubiquitous Stratocaster. With many other models stemming from the Stratocaster design, it has become an archetype, immediately recognizable as the quintessential guitar.
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The Design
The double-horned shape and contoured body of the Stratocaster combine balance, comfort, and easy access to the entire fretboard. The aesthetic is timeless. Described as “futuristic� in the 1950’s, the Stratocaster remains contemporary with some retro touches. With a variety of finishes and tonal versatility, it serves all genres and styles of music--from hard rock to jazz to bedroom pop.
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The Parts
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plastic pickguard
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alder wood, used for body and neck of guitar
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rosewood, used for fretboard of guitar
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vibrato bridge
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triple pickup system
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headstock/tuning pegs
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The Users The Stratocaster has been the guitar of choice for some of the most well-known guitarists and musicians in history, with Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and Kurt Cobain among the model’s biggest proponents.
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James Closs Design I Prof. Verdoux Credits: Leo Fender Fender Musical Instruments Corp. 14