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Average Price: $3,030

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Step back in time with the Fender 1971 Telecaster, a classic electric guitar that has captured the hearts of musicians for decades. Known for its simple yet elegant design, this solid body electric guitar offers a timeless sound that has been the backbone of countless hits. Crafted with a single-cutaway body, it provides easy access to higher frets, making it a favorite among rock, blues, and country guitarists.

The 1971 Telecaster is renowned for its signature sound, thanks to its combination of a maple neck and a robust set of single-coil pickups. These pickups deliver the bright, crisp tones and dynamic range that Fender enthusiasts have come to expect. The guitar's smooth playability is enhanced by its comfortable neck profile, which allows for fast action and effortless chord transitions.

Durability and reliability are at the heart of the 1971 Telecaster's design, ensuring it remains a faithful companion on stage or in the studio. Its classic three-saddle bridge contributes to the guitar's distinctive twang and sustains well, while the master volume and tone controls offer precise sound shaping.

Whether you're a collector, a performer, or simply an aficionado of vintage sound, the Fender 1971 Telecaster is a timeless instrument that promises to deliver.

Key Features:

  • Solid body electric guitar with classic single-cutaway design
  • Maple neck with a comfortable profile for smooth playability
  • Single-coil pickups for bright, crisp tones
  • Three-saddle bridge for distinctive twang and sustain
  • Master volume and tone controls for precise sound shaping

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Telecaster with Maple Fretboard, Telecaster with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Black, Blonde, Candy Apple Red, Firemist Gold, Firemist Silver, Lake Placid Blue, Natural, Ocean Turquoise, Olympic White, Sonic Blue, Sunburst, Walnut (Mocha)
Year 1970 - 1975
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder, Ash
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Red, Silver, Tan, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Model Family Fender Telecaster
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 CBS Era

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of a 1971 Fender Telecaster?

The 1971 Fender Telecaster is known for its bright, cutting tones with a strong midrange presence, making it ideal for genres like rock, blues, and country. The combination of single-coil pickups and solid body construction contributes to its signature twang and clarity.

How does the neck profile of the 1971 Fender Telecaster affect playability?

The 1971 Fender Telecaster typically features a "C" shaped neck profile, which provides a comfortable grip and is well-suited for a variety of playing styles, from intricate lead work to rhythm playing.

What wood materials are used in the construction of the 1971 Fender Telecaster?

The 1971 Fender Telecaster is constructed with either an alder or ash body, paired with a maple neck. These materials contribute to its resonant tone and sustain, with ash offering a slightly brighter sound compared to alder.

Is the 1971 Fender Telecaster suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the 1971 Fender Telecaster is a vintage instrument often sought by collectors and experienced players, its straightforward design and comfortable playability can also make it a suitable choice for dedicated beginners who appreciate its classic sound and feel.

What is the pickup configuration of the 1971 Fender Telecaster?

The 1971 Fender Telecaster features a single-coil pickup configuration (SS), which delivers the iconic Telecaster sound known for its clarity and twang, making it versatile for a range of musical styles.

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Guitar of the Day: 1971 Fender Telecaster in Lake Placid Blue | Norman's Rare Guitars

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Reviews

PROS

  • Incredible Lollar Vintage Tele pickups deliver exceptional tone and sound quality

  • Perfect action and feel makes it a joy to play

  • Features a beautiful, faded blonde patina that adds character

  • Powerful sound reminiscent of Keith Richards' tone

  • Solid build with a 10-pound ash body and original hang tags

  • Nitro headstock counters logo blistering, adding unique transitional characteristics

  • Dead-on intonation enhances playing experience

  • Bridge pickup offers a satisfying bite, great for classic rock tones

CONS

  • Neck pickup could use more treble to sound like 60's models

  • Requires a refret for optimal playability

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender 1971 Telecaster.

Setup and maintenance

  • The neck has a 7.25" radius with a depth of .87" at the first fret, contributing to a vintage feel.

    Source

Build quality

  • The guitar includes "F-Stamp" tuners and a maple neck stamped "3 FEB 71 B," which are original and well-preserved components.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guitar weighs 7 lbs 14 oz and maintains original single-coil pickups with CTS pots for authentic 1971 sound.

    Source

Other

  • A veneer on the back is noted, indicating potential original finish details under the current refinish.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • MJT is recommended for refinishing, with interest in period-correct colors like light blonde, black, and sunburst from 1971.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Eric Clapton uses Fender 1971 Telecaster

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

Eric Clapton used a Fender 1971 Telecaster in the studio for several recordings between 1995 and 1996. The guitar was later sold at the Crossroads Benefit in 2013. The source is a user-uploaded photo.

See how Dean Brown uses Fender 1971 Telecaster

Dean Brown

Billy Cobham’s Glass Menagerie

...
Verified via Deanbrown

Dean Brown recounts purchasing a Fender 1971 Telecaster during a trip to Hong Kong while living in Korea. Unfortunately, after moving to Boston in 1974, he had to sell the guitar due to financial constraints, only for it to be stolen shortly afterward. This story is detailed on his official website under the "Gear" section.

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 1971 Telecaster, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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