Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $72,464

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step into the world of vintage allure with the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster, a pivotal piece in the evolution of electric guitars. First introduced in 1950, this iconic instrument marked a new era with its revolutionary design, blending innovation and simplicity. The Broadcaster, with its dual single-coil pickups, set the stage for a sound that would define genres and inspire countless musicians.

Crafted with an ash body and a one-piece maple neck, this guitar delivers a resonant tone that balances clarity and warmth. The sleek single cutaway solid-body design not only enhances playability but also contributes to its timeless aesthetic. Its 25 1/2-inch scale length and string-through-body construction ensure sustain and precision, making it a favorite among both vintage enthusiasts and modern players. Featuring a black bakelite pickguard and classic volume and tone controls, the Broadcaster's design remains as functional as it is stylish.

Whether you're channeling the soulful twang of country legends or the raw edge of rock pioneers, the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster stands as a testament to the enduring power of simplicity and innovation. This isn't just a guitar; it's a piece of history that continues to shape the soundscape of music today.

Key Features:

  • Introduced in 1950 as a pivotal upgrade from the original Esquire
  • Dual single-coil pickups for versatile tone
  • Ash body with one-piece maple neck
  • Single cutaway solid-body design
  • Black bakelite pickguard
  • 25 1/2-inch scale length
  • String-through-body construction
  • Volume and tone controls

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Broadcaster
Finish Blonde
Year 1950
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Ash
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Yellow
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Fretboard Radius 7.25"
Model Family Fender Broadcaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Vintage Pre-CBS Era
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster like?

The Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster features a classic 'U' neck profile, which offers a substantial grip, ideal for players who prefer a thicker neck feel in their playing style.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster pickups?

The Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster is equipped with single-coil pickups that deliver a bright, twangy tone with excellent clarity, making it well-suited for genres like country, rock, and blues.

Is the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster suitable for beginners?

While the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster is a historic and collectible model, its straightforward design and versatile sound make it suitable for players of all levels, though beginners might prefer a less expensive option for starting out.

How does the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster differ from a standard Telecaster?

The Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster is an early model featuring a unique 'U' neck profile and vintage-style pickups, offering a distinct tonal character and historical significance compared to modern Telecasters.

What is the body material of the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster?

The body of the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster is made from ash, which contributes to its bright, resonant sound and iconic tonal qualities.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1950 Fender Broadcaster formerly owned by Billy Gibbons | Norman's Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1950 Fender Broadcaster formerly owned by Billy Gibbons | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1950 Fender Broadcaster formerly owned by Billy Gibbons | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Should You Buy the New Broadcaster? | 2020 Fender 70th Anniversary Broadcaster Tele | Review Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

Should You Buy the New Broadcaster? | 2020 Fender 70th Anniversary Broadcaster Tele | Review Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Fender Custom Shop 70th Anniversary Broadcaster | Fender by Fender

Fender Custom Shop 70th Anniversary Broadcaster | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for Joe Bonamassa 1950 Fender Broadcaster by Normans Rare Guitars

Joe Bonamassa 1950 Fender Broadcaster

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: Original 1950 Fender Broadcaster #0084 | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: Original 1950 Fender Broadcaster #0084 | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender 1950 Broadcaster | Guitar of the Day - RARE GUITAR!!! by Normans Rare Guitars

Fender 1950 Broadcaster | Guitar of the Day - RARE GUITAR!!!

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender Broadcaster from 1950 (no reissue) presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Fender Broadcaster from 1950 (no reissue) presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Video thumbnail for 1950 Fender Broadcaster, '52 Telecaster & Nocaster Reissue Demo by Guitarist

1950 Fender Broadcaster, '52 Telecaster & Nocaster Reissue Demo

Guitarist

Guitarist

Video thumbnail for 1950 Fender Broadcaster played by Ariel Posen by Carter Vintage Guitars

1950 Fender Broadcaster played by Ariel Posen

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1950 Fender Broadcaster ft. Aaron Hiebert by Emerald City Guitars

1950 Fender Broadcaster ft. Aaron Hiebert

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster.

Features and functionality

  • The Broadcaster has a 7.25" neck radius, offering a vintage feel that may require an adjustment period for some players.

    Source
  • The Broadcaster includes custom shop pickups, which are noted for their unique snarl and vintage sound, ideal for achieving classic tones.

    Source
  • The Broadcaster is built with an Ash body, which is becoming less common, adding a unique aspect to its construction.

    Source
  • Custom wiring configurations, such as combining neck humbucker and bridge single coil with a 5-way switch, offer versatile tonal options.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Broadcaster is compared favorably to the American Vintage Reissue (AVRI) series, offering a superior vintage experience for some players.

    Source
  • The 70th Anniversary Broadcaster's build quality and feel are likened to that of a custom shop model, impressing seasoned users.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • With only 2020 units made, the Broadcaster's limited availability may affect its future resale value.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Broadcaster excels in producing vintage 50s Telecaster tones, making it suitable for players seeking that specific sound profile.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners frequently mention the Broadcaster's fat neck and narrow nut width, which could influence playability preferences.

    Source
  • One owner sold a Performer Series Telecaster and a Vintera Strat for this model, indicating high satisfaction and no regrets.

    Source
  • One owner successfully reduced fret removal damage using an X-acto knife, highlighting a practical, real-world technique for partscaster builders.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners report weight variations among different units, with some models being heavier than anticipated.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The neck initially feels glossy and sticky, but can be improved with gentle scouring pad use for a smoother play experience.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users recommend the Wilkinson Broadcaster spec pickup for improved bridge tone, paired with Allparts stacked humbuckers for a fuller neck output.

    Source
  • The strat blender mod with no tone control on a 3-bridge pickup guitar is favored for combining Tele and Strat tones for versatile playing.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jack White uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Jack White

Guitarist, Drummer

The White Stripes

...
Verified via Photo

Jack White confirmed his use of the Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster in an Instagram post where he expressed gratitude to Brad Paisley for allowing him to play his original Broadcaster.

See how Eric Clapton uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

Bought by Eric Clapton as a collectors item in 1986.

See how Joe Bonamassa uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Joe Bonamassa

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Joe Bonamassa

"Before the Telecaster and Nocaster, there was the Broadcaster. These guitars had a few interesting characteristics like no channel rout and a blend knob instead of a tone knob. The blend disappeared around 1952. Plus, you get flathead screws all the way around, including the truss rod!

This example is one of the lightest Broadcaster guitars I have ever played. I am lucky to own it, and is one of my cherished Fender guitars in my collection." On his website.

See how Neil Young uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Neil Young

Singer, Guitarist

Crazy Horse

...
Verified via Fender News

Neil Young bought the Broadcaster in the early 70's which was used for the 'Tonight's the Night' live tour and has recently been seen used on the 'Tonight show with Jimmy Fallon'.

See how Joe Walsh uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Joe Walsh

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Guitarworld

Joe Walsh's wife got him this guitar. He talked about his wife and how his wife is generous in this interiew for Guitar World.

“She bought me a ’58 Goldtop, and she found me a ’53 Broadcaster, from before Fender named it Telecaster. And a ’57 Gretsch 6120 like the one I gave Pete! So I’m getting some vintage guitars on the wall.”

See how Brad Paisley uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Brad Paisley

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Jack White states that he played an original Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster owned by Brad Paisley.

See how Keith Urban uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Keith Urban

Guitarist, Bassist

Artists of Then, Now & Forever

...
Verified via Country Countdown USA

"It’s a long story, but the short version is my wife bought it at an auction, the same auction I was trying to register to bid on this guitar. Unbeknownst to me, she had already registered to bid on it for me as a gift. I was watching the bidding, and said, ‘Well it’s gone, it’s gone under some collector’s bed for the rest of time.’ And my wife comes in and goes, ‘I just bought you Waylon’s guitar.’ It was a Christmas gift. I literally fell on my knees and cried like a little baby. It was the most unbelievable thing that every happened to me. I’ve had it for quite a few years. We got it from Reggie Young, who was touring with The Highwaymen, and by all accounts, Waylon came in one day and gave it to him. It’s a very heavy guitar. It’s a 1950 Fender Broadcaster. He said, ‘Hoss I want you to have this guitar. It’s too heavy.’ So Reggie had it for 25 years and decided it was time to sell it. He didn’t know I bought it. He was the first guy I called and introduced myself to him. I said ‘I own this guitar. Anytime you want it, come over and get it.’ He’s borrowed it for Waylon Jennings days, festivals he plays, that sort of things."

See how Mike Campbell uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Mike Campbell

Guitarist

Fleetwood Mac

...
Verified via Elite Guitars

Mentioned in this page from the Elite Guitars website.

(...) below: This is a very good Guitar Player magazine issue from July 2006. In this issue, Tom is asked and talks about his gear and his guitars. From the interview, in the quote on the right, he reveals his thoughts and feelings about his recording studio secret weapon, his Epiphone Casino. Also included in the issue is an informative and detailed interview with Mike Campbell about his tone and gear too. That's Mike's Fender Broadcaster up at the top of the magazine cover!

Campbell himself mentions the guitar in this September 1999 "Spotlight on a Heartbreaker" interview from the official Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers website.

20) Tere in TX, Roxanne in NY, Ron in MA, Tim in FL, Jeremy, Cecilyn in CA, Daria and Christine asked: How many guitars do you have and what are your favorites in your collection? I'm ashamed that I don't know exactly how many guitars I have. I just got three this month ---- near 200 I guess. I'm starting to give some of them away --- no room. My favorite is my Fender Broadcaster......I'm designing one right now with a guy from Detroit. It will be a cross between Garcia's tiger and a Fender Jaguar. 31) Mike asked: Is the Telecaster you've been playing on this tour the Broadcaster that you used to play in the '70s and '80s? If it is, what made you decide to take a guitar of that value back out on the road? I brought the Broadcaster out for two reasons: It sounds amazing and I figured why not share the tone?

On pg. 4 of this interview in Tone Quest Report Vol. 9 #5, published March 2008, Mike Campbell states the following about acquiring the Broadcaster:

The first time I saw you live in the ‘70s, you were playing a goldtop Les Paul with the P90 covers removed and the pink coils exposed… It sounded great.

I love that guitar, and it was my first Gibson. When we were in the studio for the first album and we just had the Fenders, I thought, “I’ve gotta have a Gibson,” so I went into a store, and I actually got the Gibson and the Broadcaster the same day. I got the goldtop because I wanted something that I could play solos on – something with more sustain. As far as the Broadcaster, I didn’t know what I was getting – I thought it was just a Telecaster. These are amazing guitars that we’ve used on just about every record. So really, my original ’64 Strat, the goldtop and the Broadcaster are our recording gold. Anytime that we needed a sound we could go to those guitars. Even to this day, you just pull them out and get the job done.

See how Larry Carlton uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Larry Carlton

Guitarist

Steely Dan

...
Verified

Among Carlton's first guitars, as stated in the February 1977 Guitar Player interview "Larry Carlton" by Steven Rosen.

Larry's first acoustic instrument was "a nameless box with strings a half-inch off the fretboard;" his first electric axe was a Fender Broadcaster purchased in 1955. This was traded for a Telecaster, then a Stratocaster, and finally a Gibson ES-175. Later he bought another Tele and used it as a backup.

See how Waylon Jennings uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Waylon Jennings

Guitarist, Singer

The Highwaymen

...
Verified via Country Countdown USA

"It’s a long story, but the short version is my wife bought it at an auction, the same auction I was trying to register to bid on this guitar. Unbeknownst to me, she had already registered to bid on it for me as a gift. I was watching the bidding, and said, ‘Well it’s gone, it’s gone under some collector’s bed for the rest of time.’ And my wife comes in and goes, ‘I just bought you Waylon’s guitar.’ It was a Christmas gift. I literally fell on my knees and cried like a little baby. It was the most unbelievable thing that every happened to me. I’ve had it for quite a few years. We got it from Reggie Young, who was touring with The Highwaymen, and by all accounts, Waylon came in one day and gave it to him. It’s a very heavy guitar. It’s a 1950 Fender Broadcaster. He said, ‘Hoss I want you to have this guitar. It’s too heavy.’ So Reggie had it for 25 years and decided it was time to sell it. He didn’t know I bought it. He was the first guy I called and introduced myself to him. I said ‘I own this guitar. Anytime you want it, come over and get it.’ He’s borrowed it for Waylon Jennings days, festivals he plays, that sort of things."

– Keith Urban

See how Roy Clark uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Roy Clark

Guitarist

The Hee Haw Gospel Quartet

...
Verified via Vintageguitar

From an interview with Roy Clark conducted by Vintage Guitar magazine and published in their August (as well the October) 1999 issue.

‘“ Interviewer: The reason I brought up your impulse buyer past is the photos in your book indicate it also may also have been applicable to your guitar purchases. For example, there’s a picture of you in 1951 with what appears to be a new Fender electric guitar.

Roy Clark: That was a Broadcaster. When the Fender guitar came out around ’51, it was like nothing you’d ever had your hands on. Back then, I could not afford those high-dollar Gibsons, and most of the guitars I played had action a quarter of an inch high, which is good for building up chops, but not for continuous playing. I was playing at a little club in Washington, D.C., and a Marine from California who’d just been discharged walked in with a Fender guitar and wanted to sit in with us.

Interviewer: Had you ever seen a solidbody electric before?

Roy Clark: No, I’d seen pictures of Merle Travis’ Bigsby, but I’d never looked at one closely. That Marine let me play his Fender, and my Lord, when I put my hands on it, it practically played itself! They may have been all the rage in California, but I don’t think there were any in music stores in D.C. at the time. I won a five-string banjo contest later on, and part of the prize was $500, so I bought a Broadcaster.”

See how Jimmy Buffett uses Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster

Jimmy Buffett

Singer, Guitarist

The Pelicanaires

...
Verified via Margaritaville TV | Concerts and videos from Margaritaville and Jimmy Buffett

At 2:05 in the above video, Dan shows the Fender Broadcaster

Album Usage

The Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Epiphone Casino
Epiphone Casino Hollowbody Electric Guitars
2
Gibson Les Paul
Gibson Les Paul Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Gibson Firebird Non-Reversed
Gibson Firebird Non-Reversed Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Epiphone Riviera 12-String Guitar
1
Gibson Jimmy Page "Number Two" Les Paul
Gibson Jimmy Page "Number Two" Les Paul Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
1956 Fender Stratocaster
1956 Fender Stratocaster Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Ampeg VT-22
Ampeg VT-22 Combo Guitar Amplifiers
1

1 alternative for Fender "Broadcaster" Telecaster, curated by the Equipboard community.

More Fender Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    austinmw
    austinmw

    Gear IQ 5227