NAMM 2008: Fender launches new American Standard instruments

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Details have emerged regarding Fender's eagerly-anticipated new American Standard Series instruments set for launch at Winter NAMM.

Significant changes to the previous, superceded American Series line include redesigned HMV high-mass bridges for the Stratocasters and Telecasters with new bent-steel saddles, and elongated string slots, while a five-string passive Precision bass is available for the first time.

All of the instruments will have new neck and body finishes, with satin finishes on the rear of the necks combined with gloss-finished headstock fascias, and even gloss-finished fingerboards on the maple 'board guitars and basses. In addition, the Stratocasters have a new Delta Tone circuit governing the bridge and middle pickups.

The bodies, meanwhile, will have a new thinner undercoat for improved resonance. A new moulded hard case is also significantly upgraded, while popular features from the American Series such as hand-rolled fingerboard edges and alnico pickup magnets are retained.

The American Standard Series consists of the Standard Stratocaster, Stratocaster HSS, Telecaster, Precision Bass, Precision Bass 5-String, Jazz Bass, Jazz Bass Fretless and Jazz Bass 5-String. Left-handed Stratocaster, Telecaster, Precision Bass and Jazz Bass models will also be available.

Available finishes across the range are as follows: 3-Colour Sunburst, Olympic White, Black, Candy Cola, Sienna Sunburst, Blizzard Pearl, Charcoal Frost, while the Telecaster is additionally available in Crimson Red Transparent and Natural, both of which have a 3-ply black guard rather than the regular parchment.

Prices start at £879.99 UK RRP for the solid colour Strats and Teles.

Check back here on January 17th, the opening day of Winter NAMM 2008, when we'll have complete spec information and extensive pictures.

In the meantime, check out Fender's official website.