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Average Price: $1,099

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step into the world of legendary sound with the 1994 Fender Eric Clapton Custom Shop Stratocaster, a masterpiece that pays homage to one of rock's most iconic guitarists. This exceptional instrument, crafted in Fender's prestigious Custom Shop, captures the essence of Clapton's signature style, blending vintage charm with modern enhancements. The Lace Sensor "Gold" pickups deliver a clear, noise-free tone that shimmers with every strum, while the active mid boost knob provides up to 25dB of gain, perfect for those solos that need an extra lift. The special blocked tremolo reflects Clapton’s own preference, offering increased tuning stability and sustain.

Whether you're recreating the soulful blues of "Layla" or forging your own path, this Stratocaster is a versatile companion. Its comfortable neck profile is a tribute to the classic '50s Strat, ensuring hours of effortless play. The guitar's meticulous construction and premium materials make it not just an instrument, but a piece of music history worth cherishing.

Key Features:

  • Lace Sensor "Gold" pickups for clear, noise-free performance
  • Active mid boost knob with up to 25dB of gain
  • Special blocked tremolo for enhanced tuning stability
  • Crafted in Fender's Custom Shop
  • Comfortable '50s neck profile for ease of play
Tom Butwin

Tom Butwin

Clapton's Strat Is NOT a Normal Stratocaster!

Video thumbnail for Clapton's Strat Is NOT a Normal Stratocaster! by Tom Butwin

Clapton's Strat Is NOT a Normal Stratocaster!

Tom Butwin

Tom Butwin

Video thumbnail for Eric Clapton’s (not so) Secret Guitar Mod by Vertex Effects

Eric Clapton’s (not so) Secret Guitar Mod

Vertex Effects

Vertex Effects

Video thumbnail for Eric Clapton Stratocaster: Worth the Hype? | Friday Fretworks by Chris Buck

Eric Clapton Stratocaster: Worth the Hype? | Friday Fretworks

Chris Buck

Chris Buck

Video thumbnail for Fender Custom Shop / MBS Eric Clapton Stratocaster NOS Blackie built by Todd Krause 【御茶ノ水本店】 by 1484tv イシバシ楽器公式

Fender Custom Shop / MBS Eric Clapton Stratocaster NOS Blackie built by Todd Krause 【御茶ノ水本店】

1484tv イシバシ楽器公式

1484tv イシバシ楽器公式

Video thumbnail for Fender Custom Shop Eric Clapton Stratocaster - Talk and Play Through by Musos Corner

Fender Custom Shop Eric Clapton Stratocaster - Talk and Play Through

Musos Corner

Musos Corner

Video thumbnail for Fender Custom Shop Eric Clapton Stratocaster by John English (Mercedes Blue) - Player 門馬 由哉 by Dolphin Guitars

Fender Custom Shop Eric Clapton Stratocaster by John English (Mercedes Blue) - Player 門馬 由哉

Dolphin Guitars

Dolphin Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1994 Fender Eric Clapton Custom Shop Stratocaster.

Features and functionality

  • The 1994 Clapton Stratocaster features three Fender Lace Sensor Gold pickups, known for their distinctive tone and active boost on the tone control, requiring a battery.

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  • The built-in mid boost can emulate humbucker-like tones, offering versatility beyond typical Strat sounds.

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  • The vintage frets are notably smaller, which can affect playability for those unaccustomed to this style.

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Build quality

  • The single-ply pickguard design is reminiscent of 1950s Strats, inspired by Clapton's "Blackie" strat, and the finish is likely poly rather than nitrocellulose.

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  • Owners praise the fit and finish, aligning with expectations for American-made guitars.

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  • Owners report a gloss finish on the necks of 90s models, contrasting with satin finishes in newer models, impacting the tactile experience during play.

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  • The single-ply pickguard is prone to warping, which could be an aesthetic and functional issue over time.

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Use cases and applications

  • Known for its rich, versatile tone, the Lace Sensor Gold pickups are particularly suited for blues and rock styles, capturing Clapton's signature sound.

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Value and pricing

  • Clean and functional Clapton Strats from this era are valued between $1,200 and $1,500, reflecting their demand among collectors and players.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The guitar may require routine battery replacements for the active boost circuit, a unique feature compared to standard Strats.

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  • Some guitars may show chipping on fret ends and edges due to lacquer, particularly if not properly cleaned before use.

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User experience

  • The satin urethane finish on the maple fretboard is appreciated for a smoother playing experience.

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  • The "Blackie" color scheme's black and white aesthetic is polarizing, with some associating it with beginner models.

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  • The V-shaped neck, while consistent across models, may be uncomfortable for prolonged use for some players.

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Comparisons

  • The Clapton Strat can achieve tones reminiscent of Knopfler and Garcia with the mid boost off and TBX control up.

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Artist usage

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See how Eric Clapton uses 1994 Fender Eric Clapton Custom Shop Stratocaster

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

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Verified via Christies

Eric Clapton received the 1994 Fender Eric Clapton Custom Shop Stratocaster as a gift, as documented by Christie's.

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