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Average Price: $3,224

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$1001+

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Description

Step into the world of vintage charm and iconic sound with the 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie". This legendary instrument is a testament to Fender's pioneering craftsmanship, ushering in a new era of electric guitar design. Crafted with an Ash body, it delivers a resonant and full-bodied tone that has captivated musicians for generations. The thicker V-shaped Maple neck offers a comfortable grip, perfect for both intricate solos and power chords.

In 1956, Fender made the pivotal switch from Ash to Alder for their primary body wood, but this model retains the sought-after Ash body that so many legends have favored. The neck and fingerboard, both made of Maple, feature dot inlays that guide your fingers effortlessly as you strum. With three single-coil pickups and a 3-way pickup selector, the tonal possibilities are as vast as your creativity. The Bakelite pickup covers add a touch of vintage flair, while simultaneously protecting your gear.

Whether you're channeling the spirit of legendary players like Bob Dylan, Stevie Ray Vaughan, or Jimi Hendrix, the 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie" offers a timeless experience that bridges the gap between the past and present. Its distinct features and historical significance make it more than just an instrument—it's a piece of musical heritage.

Key Features:

  • Solid Ash body for a resonant tone
  • Maple neck with a thicker V-shaped profile
  • Maple fingerboard with dot inlays
  • 3 single-coil pickups with a 3-way pickup selector
  • Bakelite pickup covers
  • Bolt-on neck design

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Stratocaster
Finish Blonde, Sunburst
Year 1956
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Ash
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Brown, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Fretboard Radius 7.25"
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
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 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie"?

The 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie" typically features a soft "V" shaped neck, which offers a comfortable grip for players who prefer a slightly thicker neck profile.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie"?

The 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie" is equipped with three single-coil pickups, delivering the classic bright, bell-like tones characteristic of vintage Stratocasters, suitable for blues, rock, and surf music.

Is the 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie" suitable for modern playing styles?

While the 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie" is a vintage instrument with a 7.25" fretboard radius and vintage-style frets, it can be adapted for modern playing styles, though players might find it less suited for fast, technical playing compared to modern guitars.

What is the body material of the 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie"?

The 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie" features an ash body, which contributes to its resonant and bright tonal characteristics, typical of vintage Fender guitars.

How does the 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie" differ from later Stratocaster models?

The 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie" differs from later models with its vintage-style single-coil pickups, soft "V" neck profile, and 7.25" fretboard radius, offering a distinct playing feel and classic tone that set it apart from modern Stratocasters.

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

1956 Fender Stratocaster played by JD Simo

Video thumbnail for 1956 Fender Stratocaster played by JD Simo by Carter Vintage Guitars

1956 Fender Stratocaster played by JD Simo

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1956 Fender Stratocaster at Norman's Rare Guitars - IS IT ORIGINAL??? by Normans Rare Guitars

1956 Fender Stratocaster at Norman's Rare Guitars - IS IT ORIGINAL???

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1956 Fender Stratocaster played by JD Simo by Carter Vintage Guitars

1956 Fender Stratocaster played by JD Simo

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Reviews

Critic Reviews

1956 Fender Stratocaster & 1957 Twin Vintage Review - Premier Guitar

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Artist usage

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See how Eric Clapton uses 1956 Fender Stratocaster "Brownie"

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

'Brownie' is one of Eric Clapton's favourite guitars. Clapton said that he used 'Brownie' on the whole of the Layla album including the title track - the song which is generally regarded as being his most famous love song of all. According to the receipt from Sound City pictured here, Clapton bought this guitar on May 7th, 1967 while he was still with Cream. Clapton used 'Brownie' extensively for recordings and concerts over a number of years. Notably, on his first solo album Eric Clapton, 1970, where it shares the front cover photograph with him; and more significantly in the same year, on the whole of the Layla album where 'Brownie' is again pictured on the album cover, this time on the back, photographed on the floor of Criteria Studios. Brownie was auctioned by Christies for $497,500

Genre Usage

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

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