Pricing and availability

Average Price: $1,100

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Experience a refreshing twist on a classic with the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster. This unique 4-string electric guitar brings the iconic Telecaster sound to a compact and versatile tenor format, offering a world of new musical possibilities. Perfect for both traditional and experimental players, the Tenor Telecaster delivers a twangy and powerful sound thanks to its custom-designed alnico pickups.

Its 22.75-inch scale length and U-shaped maple neck ensure comfortable playability, while the 9.5-inch radius fingerboard with 21 vintage-tall frets offers smooth and precise fretting. The classic single-cutaway body design, with its iconic pickguard, is paired with standard Telecaster controls, including a 3-way pickup switch and master volume and tone knobs, making it familiar yet excitingly different. Whether you're exploring alternate tunings or layering rich sonic textures in the studio, the Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster is a playful addition to any guitarist's collection.

Key Features:

  • Alder body with gloss polyester finish
  • Maple neck with U profile and satin urethane finish
  • 22.75" scale length with 21 vintage-tall frets
  • Custom-designed 4-string alnico pickups
  • 3-position pickup selector switch
  • 4-saddle strings-thru-body bridge with individually adjustable saddles
  • Classic Telecaster control layout with master volume and tone knobs
  • Factory tuned to the top four strings of a standard 6-string guitar
  • Nickel/chrome hardware with standard cast/sealed tuning machines

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Alternate Reality Series Tenor Tele
Year 2019
Made In Mexico
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Blue, Red, Yellow
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Telecaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Alternate Reality

FAQs

What is the scale length of the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster?

The Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster features a 22.75-inch scale length, which is shorter than standard electric guitars, making it ideal for players looking for a unique playing experience with easier reach across frets.

How many strings does the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster have?

The Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster is a 4-string electric guitar, designed to offer a different tonal range and playing style compared to traditional 6-string guitars.

What type of pickups are used in the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster?

This guitar is equipped with custom 4-string single-coil Telecaster pickups, providing a classic Telecaster sound with a unique twist suitable for various music styles.

What is the neck profile of the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster?

The neck of the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster has a "U"-shaped profile, offering a comfortable grip and support for various playing techniques.

Is the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster suitable for beginners?

With its shorter scale length and 4-string configuration, the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster can be a great choice for beginners looking to explore new sounds and playing styles.

Does the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster come with a case?

Yes, the Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster includes a deluxe gig bag, providing protection and easy transport for your guitar.

Fender

Fender

Alternate Reality Tenor Tele | Alternate Reality Series | Fender

Video thumbnail for Alternate Reality Tenor Tele | Alternate Reality Series | Fender by Fender

Alternate Reality Tenor Tele | Alternate Reality Series | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for My Guitar Only Has 4 Strings?!? | 2019 Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Tele | Review + Demo by The Trogly's Guitar Show

My Guitar Only Has 4 Strings?!? | 2019 Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Tele | Review + Demo

The Trogly's Guitar Show

The Trogly's Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Fender Tenor Tele - First Impressions by Baron Collins-Hill

Fender Tenor Tele - First Impressions

Baron Collins-Hill

Baron Collins-Hill

Video thumbnail for Got A Ukulele Reviews - Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Tele - 4K by GotAUkulele

Got A Ukulele Reviews - Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Tele - 4K

GotAUkulele

GotAUkulele

Video thumbnail for Look at my tenor guitars. Look at them! by Get Offset

Look at my tenor guitars. Look at them!

Get Offset

Get Offset

Video thumbnail for The Alternate Reality Tenor Tele by C. A. House Music

The Alternate Reality Tenor Tele

C. A. House Music

C. A. House Music

Video thumbnail for Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Tele Lake Placid Blue Demo by Darren Lock Music

Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Tele Lake Placid Blue Demo

Darren Lock Music

Darren Lock Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique tenor guitar offering, rare in the market

  • Inspires creative ideas and versatility in playing

  • Excellent value for money with quality construction

  • Great pickups deliver authentic Telecaster sound

  • Versatile tuning options for various styles

  • Solid build quality from Mexico factory

  • Unmatched versatility for diverse playing needs

CONS

  • Requires professional setup for optimal performance

  • Initial string setup may cause buzz issues

  • Stock strings may need upgrading

  • Fretwork could be slightly improved

  • Some players may prefer wider fretboard spacing

Owner Insights

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

Value and pricing

  • Prices have significantly increased from the original $500 to thousands as they became less available.

    Source
  • Although initially priced at $450, the Tenor Tele's limited availability has caused its market value to nearly double, making it a potential collector's item.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar can be tuned to GDAE, appealing to players familiar with tenor guitars.

    Source
  • Considered fun and versatile, it inspires exploration into different sonic styles and techniques.

    Source
  • It's noted that the Tele Tenor's sold string set (9-11-16-24) is intended for 'baritone uke' tuning, offering versatility in musical styles.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find it instinctive for playing melodies and triads, providing a unique playing experience compared to standard electric guitars.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners note the absence of string trees might affect the break angle, suggesting potential benefits from adding one on strings 1 and 2 for improved tuning stability.

    Source
  • The Tenor Tele's 22.75" scale length is compatible with standard CGDA gauges, providing flexibility in string choices for optimal tonal performance.

    Source

Build quality

  • The headstock's offset design slightly compensates for the lack of string trees, contributing to better string tension management compared to a flat headstock design.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Swapping out high two string tuners for lower ones can improve the break angle, complementing the headstock's design to enhance tuning stability.

    Source

Critic Reviews

https://www.gotaukulele.com/2021/01/fender-alternate-reality-tenor-tele.html

gotaukulele.com

The Fender Alternate Reality Tenor Telecaster delivers a unique blend of ukulele and guitar in a compact, four-string package. Its Telecaster-inspired design and solid build quality stand out, boasting a flawless finish and distinct tone. The versatile tuning and easy playability make it appealing to both baritone ukulele and tenor guitar enthusiasts. While the lack of a neck pickup cover and oversized headstock elements may irk some purists, the instrument's overall performance and fair pricing make it a worthwhile consideration. The limited availability is a downside, but this model remains a recommended choice for those seeking a high-quality, steel-strung electric experience.

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