Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,253
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
The Fender '82-'83 Dan Smith Era Standard American Stratocaster is a true gem in the history of electric guitars. This iconic instrument emerged during a pivotal time when Fender was looking to revitalize its legacy. Spearheaded by marketing director Dan Smith, this Stratocaster embodies a blend of vintage charm and modern innovation. With its smaller headstock and pre-CBS inspired neck plate, the Dan Smith Stratocaster delivers a touch of nostalgia while offering the performance and reliability demanded by today's musicians.
Though its production was short-lived, lasting only three years, this guitar has carved out a niche for itself among collectors and players alike. It's renowned for its classic Strat tone, impressive playability, and the unique distinction of being associated with Dan Smith's influential tenure at Fender. The design choices made during this era highlight a return to Fender's roots, offering guitarists a vintage experience with the benefits of modern craftsmanship.
Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or a collector, the Dan Smith Stratocaster offers a piece of musical history with its distinctive features and unparalleled sound quality. Its enduring legacy and rarity make it not just a guitar, but a conversation piece that stands the test of time.
Key Features:
- Smaller headstock design for a vintage aesthetic
- Pre-CBS inspired neck plate
- Classic Stratocaster tone and playability
- Limited production run from 1982-1983, highly collectible
- Renowned for its historical significance during Fender's revitalization period
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | "Dan Smith" Stratocaster |
| Finish | Arctic White, Aztec Gold, Black, Black Stratoburst, Blonde, Blue Stratoburst, Bronze Stratoburst, Brown Sunburst, Candy Apple Green, Cherry Sunburst, Emerald Green, Mocha Brown, Natural, Pewter, Ruby Red, Sapphire Blue, Sienna Sunburst |
| Year | 1980 - 1983 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Material | Alder, Ash |
| Body Shape | S-Style |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Tremolo Bridge |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Green, Red, Silver, Tan, White, Yellow |
| Finish Pattern | Fade, Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss, Metallic |
| Fretboard Material | Maple, Rosewood |
| 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 CBS Era |
FAQs
-
What makes the Fender '82-'83 Dan Smith Era Stratocaster unique compared to other Stratocasters?
-
The '82-'83 Dan Smith Era Stratocaster is known for its high-quality craftsmanship during a transitional period at Fender, featuring a return to vintage specs such as a smaller headstock, four-bolt neck, and improved pickups, enhancing its playability and tone.
-
What type of pickups does the Fender '82-'83 Dan Smith Era Stratocaster have?
-
This Stratocaster features a single-coil pickup configuration (SSS), known for delivering the classic bright and clear Fender tone, ideal for genres like rock, blues, and pop.
-
Is the Fender '82-'83 Dan Smith Era Stratocaster suitable for beginners?
-
While it's a high-quality instrument appreciated by collectors and experienced players, beginners can also benefit from its excellent playability and classic sound, though it is typically more sought after by those with some playing experience.
-
What neck profile does the Fender '82-'83 Dan Smith Era Stratocaster have?
-
The neck profile of this Stratocaster is a comfortable "C" shape, which provides a smooth playing experience suitable for various playing styles and hand sizes.
-
What are the finish options available for the Fender '82-'83 Dan Smith Era Stratocaster?
-
This model comes in various finishes, including Arctic White, Aztec Gold, Black, and several sunburst and metallic options, offering a wide range of aesthetic choices to suit personal preferences.
Videos
Normans Rare Guitars
Guitar of the Day: 1983 Fender Dan Smith Stratocaster | Norman's Rare Guitars
Reviews
PROS
-
Built in Fullerton factory, known for superior craftsmanship
-
Original X-1 pickup provides extra bite and clarity
-
Lightweight at approximately 7.2 pounds, enhances playability
-
Slim neck profile allows for easy thumb bass notes
-
Improved design and materials post-CBS era
-
Limited production makes it a collectible instrument
-
Superior action and sweet Stratocaster tone
-
Easier access to jack outlet compared to traditional angled jack
-
Resonates better due to reduced wiring, enhancing tone
-
Great value for a vintage Stratocaster, often priced around a grand
CONS
-
Heavier than some other Stratocasters from the same era
-
Neck may feel too slim for those accustomed to chunkier profiles
-
Tremolo may not suit those seeking extensive use
-
Lack of back plate might not appeal to all users
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender '82-'83 Dan Smith Era Standard American Stratocaster.
Features and functionality
-
Some users find the tremolo system poorly designed, with springs inside the pickup cavity, leading to frequent criticism.
Source -
The 1983 Strat features a unique 2-knob configuration, which some owners associate with Dan Smith's design improvements during his tenure at Fender.
Source -
The bridge pickup is an X1 model, recognized for its increased attack, resembling a Telecaster bridge pickup, while the other two are standard Strat pickups from the 80s.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
An owner replaced the original pickups with Fender Custom Shop '54s and a CIJ '56 neck, significantly changing the guitar's tonal character.
Source
User experience
Comparisons
-
An owner noted that the guitar's output level is much lower than a Gibson ES-335, requiring a preamp for comparable performance.
Source -
The two-knob '83 Strat was Fender's response to competition from Japanese Stratocasters, making it a unique and sometimes polarizing piece among vintage Fender enthusiasts.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Fender Solid Body Electric Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Solid Body Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
ralph_eisimingerGear IQ 73
-