The document provides an in-depth analysis of the 1966 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst, a classic guitar model that underwent significant design changes after CBS acquired Fender. Here’s a detailed summary of the key points:
- Construction and Design Evolution: The document highlights the evolution of the Stratocaster’s design, noting significant changes that started to appear at the end of 1965. These changes include the introduction of larger headstocks and adjustments in the body and neck constructions to reflect CBS’s influence on Fender’s manufacturing processes.
- Material and Component Modifications: There was a shift in the materials used for various components:
- The body material changed from ash to alder in 1956.
- The necks began to feature larger headstocks and moved from one-piece to separate fingerboards with different types of inlays transitioning from clay to pearloid dots.
- Pickguards evolved from single-layer to three-layer configurations.
- Pickup constructions were modified to include different magnets and enamel-coated copper wire, enhancing their performance and consistency.
- Technical Details and Specifications:
- The document details specific components such as the type of rosewood used for the fretboard, the introduction of gray-bottom pickups, and the consistent use of certain types of bridges and tremolos that remained unchanged through the end of 1966.
- Sound Characteristics: The Stratocaster is noted for its clear, focused sound with less overtone, attributed to the pickup designs and the plain enamel wire used. The document also mentions how the physical attributes of the guitar, such as the neck profile and fret dimensions, contribute to its playability and sound quality.
- Market Reception and Legacy: It discusses how these guitars, despite the changes, retained much of their beloved characteristics and how they are valued in the market today, especially for collectors and musicians who appreciate the blend of vintage appeal with modern enhancements.
The summary captures the essence of the 1966 Fender Stratocaster’s design evolution, technical specifics, and its standing in the guitar community, highlighting both the historical significance and the continued legacy of this iconic model.