The Fender American Elite Stratocaster Ash MN (Aged Cherry Burst) is a 6-string Electric Guitar and a pure workhorse for musicians, with both sound and feel adapted to modern demands. Based on the original design, this instrument has received some useful upgrades in the form of a modern compound neck profile, which changes from a slim “C” profile in the first layers to a modern “D” profile, and the fourth generation of Fender Noiseless single coils. The S-1 switch in the volume control now offers even more sound variations, while locking tuners with short axes promise improved tuning stability.
Modern “C” to “D” Neck
The classic Maple neck of the American Elite Stratocaster Ash presents the most elaborate design of the Fender line up. The neck profile follows the modern “C” curve in the low positions to the modern “D” profile towards the neck join, and the 9.5" radius on the saddle offers easy chord play. The wide 14" radius on the neck foot makes Bends and similar techniques butter-soft to play.
Fender 4th Generation Noiseless Pick-Ups
3x 4th Generation Noiseless Single Coils in neck, middle and bridge position provide the classic Stratocaster set-up. The innovative single spoolers, however, suppress disturbing background noises such as the infamous '50 Cycle Hum' without denying the unmistakable Strat character. Thanks to the S-1 switch in the master Volume, even exotic sound combinations such as out-of-phase sounds or all 3x pick-ups are serially connected - no problem for the Fender American Elite Stratocaster Ash.
The main features of the Fender American Elite Stratocaster Ash MN (Aged Cherry Burst) include:
The guitar has the looks and sound of a more expensive instrument. It arrived fast in "ready to play" setup. I enjoy mostly the modern hybrid C/D neck which allows for a good balance between feel and speed. Switching between my older very thin Ibanez Wizard neck to this Strat has been quick and comfortable. The locking tuners keep it surprisingly in tune even when abusing the non-locking tremolo. The electronics of this Elite series offer many possibilities and when combined with a nice tube amp of a similar price range, this guitar can cover many musical styles. Overall an excellent, highly recommended choice!