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Average Price: $1,750

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Revive the spirit of a 1965 classic with the Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String electric guitar, a masterful reimagining of the original Electric XII. Designed for those who appreciate both the retro charm and modern enhancements, this instrument features a resonant alder body crafted into an ergonomic offset shape, making it as comfortable as it is stylish. The standout feature? Its unique split-coil pickups, delivering the iconic Fender sound—crisp, clear, and beautifully jangly. Whether you're crafting folk rock anthems or exploring new sonic landscapes, the streamlined 3-way pickup selector switch provides endless tonal possibilities.

The playability of the Alternate Reality XII is unmatched, boasting a sleek Modern C-shaped neck that's perfect for extended sessions. Its 9.5-inch radius fingerboard and 22 medium-jumbo frets ensure a smooth playing experience, while the vintage-style hockey stick headstock pays homage to its heritage. Tuning stability and precise intonation are guaranteed, thanks to the adjustable hardtail bridge equipped with 12 individual saddles. Whether you're channeling classic Byrds riffs or forging your own path, the Alternate Reality XII offers a compelling blend of nostalgia and innovation that speaks to both seasoned pros and adventurous newcomers.

Key Features:

  • 12-string electric guitar with offset Jaguar/Jazzmaster-style body
  • Resonant alder body for balanced tone
  • Unique split-coil pickups for crisp, clear, jangling sounds
  • Streamlined 3-way pickup selector switch
  • Comfortable maple Modern C-shaped neck
  • 9.5"-radius pau ferro fingerboard with 22 medium-jumbo frets
  • Vintage-style hockey stick headstock
  • Adjustable hardtail bridge with 12 individual saddles for precise intonation

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 kind of music genres is the Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String best suited for?

The Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String is ideal for genres that benefit from rich harmonic textures, such as rock, folk, and psychedelic music. Its 12-string configuration provides a shimmering, chorus-like effect that enhances chordal playing and adds depth to solos.

What is the neck profile of the Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String like?

The Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String features a comfortable "C" shaped neck profile, which is designed to be easy to play for both rhythm and lead guitarists, offering a familiar feel for those accustomed to Fender's traditional neck shapes.

How does the pickup configuration affect the sound of the Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String?

The Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String has a single-coil pickup configuration (SS) that delivers bright and articulate tones, perfect for cutting through mixes and highlighting the unique sound of a 12-string guitar.

Is the Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build, reliable tuning stability, and the distinctive sound that stands out on stage, making it a great choice for adding texture to live band settings.

What are the finish options available for the Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String?

The Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String is available in three finish options: 3-Tone Sunburst, Lake Placid Blue, and Olympic White, each offering a classic yet stylish look that complements its unique sound.

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

Video thumbnail for 12-String Demo! Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII Rocks! by Still Kickin Music

12-String Demo! Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII Rocks!

Still Kickin Music

Still Kickin Music

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Alternate Reality XII 12-String.

Build quality

  • The Pau Ferro fingerboard is noted for its feel, though some find its appearance less appealing.

    Source
  • The neck has a bit of flame, a feature becoming rare in Made in Mexico (MIM) models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The truss rod adjustment on the Fender is at the neck base, complicating adjustments compared to the Squier's headstock location.

    Source
  • Fretboards have been successfully stained with Monty’s Montypresso, a wax-based product that doesn’t require covering inlays.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners are modding the switch from 3-way to vintage rotary with series/parallel mode for enhanced versatility.

    Source
  • Users have refinished the guitar using Gracy’s Shoreline Gold nitro and added Lollar pickups for improved sound quality.

    Source
  • Gunstreet Wiring's harness includes a 4-way rotary switch, similar to the original Electric XII model, offering additional tonal options.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Squier Jazzmaster XII is compared for affordability, with a pre-order price at Sweetwater significantly lower than the Fender.

    Source
  • The Fender Electric XII offers a tighter low end and shimmery high end compared to hollow body 12-strings like Gibson, Ric, or Gretsch.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Vintage Fender Electric XII models range from $6,000 to $14,000, making the Alternate Reality model a more affordable alternative.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report satisfaction with the Fender's split pickups, highlighting their sound quality and playability.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the ease of playing, as the Electric XII was clearly designed as a 12-string, unlike some models that adapt 6-string designs.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The unique sound of the split coil pickups is likened to classic Fender tones, making it suitable for players seeking a distinct sonic character.

    Source
  • The guitar is appreciated in studio settings for background chords, delivering a notably jangly sound.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Fender Alternate Reality Electric XII

guitar.com

Fender's Alternate Reality Electric XII delivers inspiring sonics and a visually striking design, making it a worthy revival of a classic. With comfortable playability and a versatile sound palette, it caters to both traditionalists and modern experimentalists alike. However, purists may miss the original's series setting on the pickup selector, which has been replaced for simplicity's sake. Still, its unique tonal character and affordability ensure that this 12-string is not just a nostalgic throwback but a compelling option for today's musicians.

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