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Average Price: $1,200

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The American Series is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Stratocaster guitar as well, with the 50th Anniversary American Series Stratocaster guitar. This 50th anniversary model features three new Custom Shop Vintage 1954 single-coil pickups, a special commemorative 50th anniversary neck plate, and "Parchment" knobs and pickup covers. This model also utilizes the "Delta Tone" system, which includes a high output bridge pickup and special no-load tone control for the middle and bridge pickups.

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model 50th Anniversary American Series Stratocaster with Maple Fretboard
Finish 2-Color Sunburst
Year 2004
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Brown
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender American Series, Fender American Standard

FAQs

What makes the 50th Anniversary Fender American Standard Stratocaster unique?

This 2004 model celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Stratocaster, featuring a special 2-Color Sunburst finish and a commemorative neck plate. It maintains the classic Stratocaster design with modern enhancements, making it a collector's item and a versatile instrument for various music styles.

What kind of pickups does the 2004 50th Anniversary Stratocaster have?

The guitar features a single-coil SSS pickup configuration, offering the classic bright and clear Fender tone. This setup is ideal for genres like rock, blues, and pop, providing the signature Stratocaster sound.

Is the 50th Anniversary Stratocaster suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Fender 50th Anniversary Stratocaster is well-suited for live performances, offering a reliable tremolo bridge and bolt-on neck construction for stability and ease of playability. Its versatile tone makes it a great choice for a wide range of musical styles on stage.

What is the neck profile of the 2004 50th Anniversary Stratocaster?

This Stratocaster features a modern C-shaped neck profile, which provides a comfortable grip for most players. The maple neck and fretboard contribute to its bright tone and smooth playability, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

How does the 50th Anniversary Stratocaster compare to other Fender models?

The 50th Anniversary Stratocaster offers a blend of vintage aesthetics and modern playability, distinguishing it from other models. While it retains the classic Strat sound, its unique finish and commemorative details make it a standout choice for collectors and players alike.

Matt Raines

Matt Raines

50th Anniversary Fender Strat USA Electric Guitar Review 2004

Video thumbnail for 50th Anniversary Fender Strat USA Electric Guitar Review 2004 by Matt Raines

50th Anniversary Fender Strat USA Electric Guitar Review 2004

Matt Raines

Matt Raines

Video thumbnail for 2004 Fender Stratocaster  "50th Anniversary" USA by GregsGuitars

2004 Fender Stratocaster "50th Anniversary" USA

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Fender 2004 50th Anniversary Stratocaster Guitar Clean Sound by chatreeo

Fender 2004 50th Anniversary Stratocaster Guitar Clean Sound

chatreeo

chatreeo

Video thumbnail for Fender American Standard Stratocaster 2004 50th Anniversary Soundcheck by Tamás Pógyor

Fender American Standard Stratocaster 2004 50th Anniversary Soundcheck

Tamás Pógyor

Tamás Pógyor

Reviews

PROS

  • Stunning tobacco burst finish with gold hardware and abalone inlays

  • Unique S-1 switching system enhances soloing capabilities

  • Flamed tops provide an eye-catching appearance

  • High-quality pickups praised for great sound

  • Considered a special edition due to 50th anniversary branding

CONS

  • Confusion around the anniversary year, some think it commemorates the Fender Company's anniversary

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender 2004 50th Anniversary Fender American Standard Stratocaster.

Features and functionality

  • The guitar should have a 1-ply parchment pickguard and a 50th anniversary neck plate, indicating its authenticity.

    Source
  • This model is supposed to have a Fender Custom Shop '54 pickups and an ash body, which are key indicators of the genuine 50th anniversary edition.

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  • The Deluxe version is equipped with noiseless "SCN" pickups, differing from the Custom Shop '54 pickups in the standard anniversary model.

    Source
  • Ash body in 2-tone burst and special case are unique to this model, although some buyers may not receive the case.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners note the distinctive wood grain pattern, which adds to the unique aesthetic of the guitar, confirming its authenticity.

    Source
  • The lacquer on the frets tends to wear off quickly, with one owner noting it was gone within a week.

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User experience

  • Owners frequently mention that this model matches the American Series with particular upgrades, providing a unique combination of standard and custom features.

    Source
  • Buyers from 2008 report acquiring the 50th Anniversary Stratocaster for as low as $500, highlighting potential value deals in the used market.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the Deluxe model, this version lacks gold hardware, highlighting a significant difference between the two anniversary editions.

    Source
  • The Montego Black finish, noted to be more valuable, indicates a distinct version compared to other 50th anniversary models.

    Source
  • The guitar is often confused with "diamond anniversary" models, which are regular Strats with an anniversary badge, lacking the 50th anniversary's unique features.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend swapping original pickups for Seymour Duncan SSL-1 in neck/middle and SSL-5 in bridge for enhanced tonal versatility.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Miguel Talavera uses Fender 2004 50th Anniversary Fender American Standard Stratocaster

Miguel Talavera

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Miguel Talavera uses a Fender 2004 50th Anniversary American Standard Stratocaster, customized with vintage white paint and Lollar pickups, along with modified electronics for expanded tonal options. This is confirmed by a user-uploaded photo.

Genre Usage

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

Community setups

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marcohart

marcohart

Gear IQ 56

oleg_kolesnikov

oleg_kolesnikov

Gear IQ 150

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