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Average Price: $1,600

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

The Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII is a nostalgic nod to the classic 1965 design, reimagined for today's musicians who crave both vintage style and modern functionality. This electric guitar stands out with its iconic shape and distinctive headstock, a tribute to its legendary predecessor. The newly designed split-coil pickups offer a versatile sonic palette, allowing you to explore a wide range of tones with a 3-position switch that effortlessly toggles between pickup configurations—each with its own unique character.

At the heart of the Electric XII is a modern C-shaped neck, ensuring a comfortable and familiar playing experience for guitarists of all skill levels. The 9.5-inch fretboard radius and 22 medium-jumbo frets provide smooth playability, making intricate solos and chord transitions a breeze. Whether you're strumming lush, chiming chords or diving into intricate lead work, this guitar delivers the rich, full-bodied sound that made Fender a household name.

Perfect for both studio sessions and live performances, the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII bridges the gap between vintage allure and contemporary craftsmanship, making it a must-have for any guitarist looking to expand their musical horizons.

Key Features:

  • Newly designed split-coil pickups with 3-position switch
  • Modern C-shaped neck profile
  • 9.5-inch fretboard radius
  • 22 medium-jumbo frets
  • Classic Fender body and headstock design

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Alternate Reality Series Electric XII
Finish 3-Tone Sunburst, Lake Placid Blue, Olympic White
Year 2019
Made In Mexico
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Blue, Brown, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Pau Ferro
Model Family Fender Electric XII
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 12-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Alternate Reality

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII like?

The Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII features a comfortable and familiar "C" shaped neck profile, making it suitable for players who enjoy a classic feel with easy playability across the fretboard.

What kind of music genres is the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII best suited for?

The Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII, with its 12-string configuration and unique tonal qualities, excels in genres like rock, pop, and folk, providing a rich, jangly sound that complements rhythm and lead playing.

Are the pickups on the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII suitable for clean tones?

Yes, the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII's SS pickup configuration is designed to deliver clear and articulate clean tones, ideal for jangly chords and melodic lines.

Is the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII suitable for beginners?

While the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII offers a unique sound and design, its 12-string setup may be more challenging for beginners. It is better suited for players with some experience looking to expand their tonal palette.

How does the string-through bridge affect the sound of the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII?

The string-through bridge on the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII enhances sustain and resonance, providing a fuller, more vibrant sound that complements the 12-string configuration.

Fender

Fender

The Electric XII: In-Depth Look | Alternate Reality Series | Fender

Video thumbnail for The Electric XII: In-Depth Look  | Alternate Reality Series | Fender by Fender

The Electric XII: In-Depth Look | Alternate Reality Series | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for Alternate Reality Electric XII From Fender - In-Depth Demo! by N Stuff Music

Alternate Reality Electric XII From Fender - In-Depth Demo!

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Video thumbnail for HONEST REVIEW: 2019 Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII 12-string Jazzmaster: Byrds tones & more! by Aaron Heisler

HONEST REVIEW: 2019 Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII 12-string Jazzmaster: Byrds tones & more!

Aaron Heisler

Aaron Heisler

Video thumbnail for Jeffrey Demos the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII @ Elderly.com by Elderly Instruments

Jeffrey Demos the Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII @ Elderly.com

Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Video thumbnail for Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII 12-String Guitar Review and Demonstration by Darren Lock Music

Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII 12-String Guitar Review and Demonstration

Darren Lock Music

Darren Lock Music

Video thumbnail for Fender Alternate Reality: The Electric XII by astringsuk

Fender Alternate Reality: The Electric XII

astringsuk

astringsuk

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional resonance unplugged; surprisingly vibrant for an electric guitar.

  • Comfortable neck with a 1.75” width; ideal for various hand sizes.

  • Split single coil pickups provide versatile tonal options.

  • Retro Fender split peg head tuners maintain tuning stability.

  • Lightweight design enhances playability and reduces fatigue.

  • Great balance when strapped on; not neck heavy.

  • Strong pickup output eliminates need to adjust amp volume frequently.

  • Affordable alternative to vintage models with similar features.

  • Chords ring clearly; easy to play barre and open chords.

  • Comes stock with high-quality D’Addario strings.

CONS

  • Intonation issues require significant setup time for accuracy.

  • Volume and tone knobs lose quality when rolled back.

  • Low E string saddle has limited range for intonation adjustments.

  • String-spacing inconsistency on high-E strings.

  • Gig bag lacks proper protection for unique headstock.

  • Some models have factory defects affecting playability.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII.

Features and functionality

  • The Alternate Reality Electric XII features split pickups which owners find satisfactory, though some consider upgrading with boutique vintage-style pickups for a more authentic sound.

    Source
  • Some users remove half the strings to mimic a Fender Maverick, highlighting the guitar's versatility for those seeking a different playing experience without additional cost.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The truss rod adjustment on the Fender is at the neck base, complicating maintenance for a 12-string; the Squier offers easier adjustments at the headstock.

    Source
  • String changes are notably dreaded by owners due to the 12-string configuration, which can be cumbersome.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners are modifying the switch from a 3-way to a vintage rotary to access series/parallel modes, enhancing tonal flexibility.

    Source

User experience

  • The Pau Ferro fingerboard is noted for its good feel despite some dissatisfaction with its appearance.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate how the Electric XII was designed specifically as a 12-string, avoiding the awkwardness found in retrofitted 6-string models like Rics and Gretschs.

    Source
  • Owners mention the guitar feels unexpectedly comfortable for a 12-string, suggesting a proper setup can improve the initial feel significantly.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Squier Jazzmaster XII offers a cost-effective alternative with an easier truss rod adjustment, while the Fender is praised for its sound quality and build.

    Source
  • Compared to hollow body 12-strings like Gibson, Ric, or Gretsch, the Electric XII offers a tighter low end and shimmery high end, attributed to its longer scale.

    Source

Build quality

  • The neck of the Electric XII features a rare bit of flame, adding a unique aesthetic not often seen in MIM guitars.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII

guitar.com

Fender's Electric XII revives a classic with style, delivering inspiring tones and a stunning finish at a reasonable price. The modern tweaks—like the user-friendly three-way toggle and adjustable bridge—enhance playability, making it accessible for both seasoned players and newcomers. However, purists might miss the original's series setting. While the guitar excels in sound versatility, players should be deliberate with strumming to ensure clarity on the octave strings. With its comfortable neck and great balance, the Electric XII strikes a chord in today's music scene, proving it’s not just a nostalgic relic but a relevant tool for modern creativity.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mikefiction

Beautiful Instrument!

This guitar looks and plays beautifully. This is the first time Fender has made this 12 string since the 60's (with the exception of some custom shop stuff).

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