Fender’s new American Ultra series guitars bring a state-of-the-art combination of new and old features expertly fine-tuned into time-tested classic Fender designs. American Ultra replaces the outgoing American Elite series. New models include a Stratocaster, Stratocaster HSS, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Precision Bass, Jazz Bass and Jazz Bass V—each delivered in a premium molded hardshell case. Sporting new sculpted bodies with enhanced contours and tapered neck heels that allow easy access to the upper frets, these instruments are designed for comfort and long-term playability. All the guitars in the American Ultra series feature Fender's new Ultra Noiseless Vintage or Ultra Noiseless Hot pickups. Players can select from new automotive-inspired custom colors including Aged Natural, Cobra Blue, Arctic Pearl, Mocha Burst, Plasma Red Burst, Ultraburst and Texas Tea.
The American Ultra Telecaster, shown here in Mocha Burst, features a unique, modern “D”-shaped neck profile that slopes gently up the fretboard top and a 10”-14” compound radius fingerboard with 22 medium Jumbo Frets for effortless and accurate soloing. The body is available in Alder or Ash depending on the guitar’s selected finish. Other high-end appointments include sealed locking tuners and a bone nut. Players will immediately notice that the neck has an ultra-smooth satin finish with a soft vintage tint that feels like the guitar has been played for years—right out of the case. This Tele is equipped with six individual saddles that look like stainless steel but are really chrome-plated brass. The B and E string-tree is positioned a little farther up the neck than on a vintage telecaster. The body is fully bound. A redesigned classic Fender Logo in gold gives a touch of class. The overall impression of the guitar is visually stunning and truly a beautiful musical instrument to hold and play.
The American Ultra Telecaster comes equipped with Fender’s new Ultra Noiseless Vintage pickups. The pickups feature staggered pole pieces, so they look vintage but are completely redesigned state-of-the-art noiseless pickups. Fender has done a great job in maintaining what most discerning players would consider a vintage-correct tone—but without hum. Players comparing previous Fender noiseless pickups will notice that the new Ultra Noiseless pickups have more pronounced midrange and are slightly brighter than the previous generation of Fender noiseless pickups.
The three-way switch is classic Fender Tele, but Fender’s proprietary S-1 switch enables a series/parallel circuit for extra-fat tones when both pickups are on.
Fender’s new American Ultra series guitars and basses are a great fit for professional working musicians or anyone looking for a modern American-made instrument with remarkably comfortable necks, gorgeous finishes, toneful noiseless pickups and advanced electronics.
The American Ultra Telecaster is MAP-priced at $1899.99. Find out more at fender.com.
