Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $1,200

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

Discover the refined craftsmanship and unparalleled performance of the Fender American Elite Telecaster, now available in multiple finishes to match your unique style. This exceptional guitar elevates the classic Telecaster design with modern enhancements, delivering versatility, precision, and a noise-free playing experience that both studio musicians and live performers will appreciate. Its sleek aesthetic and ergonomic features ensure that it stands out, both visually and sonically, making it a prized addition to any musician's collection.

Key Features:

  • Equipped with fourth generation noiseless single coil Telecaster pickups, offering a crisp, clear tone without the hum.
  • The innovative S-1 switching system provides versatile tone options, allowing for a broader range of sonic possibilities.
  • A compound profile neck designed for comfort and playability, accommodating a variety of playing styles.
  • Lockable short-post tuning machines ensure stable tuning, enhancing the instrument's reliability during performances.
  • Available in multiple finishes, each guitar has a distinct personality and aesthetic appeal.

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model American Elite Telecaster
Finish 3-Color Sunburst, Aged Cherry Burst, Autumn Blaze Metallic, Butterscotch Blonde, Champagne, Mystic Black, Ocean Turquoise, Satin Ice Blue Metallic, Satin Jade Pearl Metallic, Tobacco Sunburst
Year 2016 - 2019
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, Green, Orange, Red, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Ebony, Maple, Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 14", 9.5"
Frets Medium Jumbo
Model Family Fender Telecaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.6875"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender American Elite

FAQs

What kind of neck profile does the Fender American Elite Telecaster have?

The Fender American Elite Telecaster features a compound neck profile that transitions from a modern "C" shape at the nut to a modern "D" shape at the body, offering enhanced comfort and playability across the fretboard.

Are the pickups on the Fender American Elite Telecaster suitable for rock music?

Yes, the Fender American Elite Telecaster is equipped with 4th Generation Noiseless pickups, which provide a clear and powerful tone suitable for rock, as well as other genres like blues and country.

What is the fretboard radius of the Fender American Elite Telecaster?

The fretboard radius of the Fender American Elite Telecaster is compound, ranging from 9.5" to 14", allowing for easy chording near the nut and smooth bends higher up the neck.

Does the Fender American Elite Telecaster come with a case?

Yes, the Fender American Elite Telecaster typically comes with a high-quality hardshell case to protect the guitar during transport and storage.

Is the Fender American Elite Telecaster suitable for beginners?

While the Fender American Elite Telecaster is a professional-grade instrument designed for advanced players, its comfortable neck and versatile tone make it accessible for dedicated beginners willing to invest in a quality guitar.

What finishes are available for the Fender American Elite Telecaster?

The Fender American Elite Telecaster is available in a variety of finishes, including 3-Color Sunburst, Aged Cherry Burst, Butterscotch Blonde, and Mystic Black, among others.

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Fender American Elite Telecaster

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - Fender American Elite Telecaster by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Fender American Elite Telecaster

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Fender American Elite Telecaster  •  Wildwood Guitars Overview by Wildwood Guitars

Fender American Elite Telecaster • Wildwood Guitars Overview

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender American Elite Telecaster in Butterscotch Blonde, Maple Fretboard by PMTVUK

Fender American Elite Telecaster in Butterscotch Blonde, Maple Fretboard

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Reviews

PROS

  • Stunning aesthetics make it visually appealing

  • Comfortable compound neck for effortless playability

  • Versatile tonal options with S1 switch and pickup configurations

  • Noiseless pickups maintain classic Tele sound

  • Lightweight with a body-conforming shape

  • Curved heel allows easy access up to 22nd fret

  • Locking tuners enhance tuning stability

  • Excellent sustain, better than other electrics

  • Versatile for various music genres from rock to jazz

CONS

  • Occasional electronic issues, such as faulty neck pickups

  • Neck feels chunky below the 4th fret, uncomfortable for some

  • Not fully shielded, prone to static noise

  • Fret ends may feel sharp and uncomfortable

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender American Elite Telecaster - Multiple Finishes.

Features and functionality

  • The Elite Telecaster features a compound neck shape transitioning from C to D, offering a more consistent feel compared to the Deluxe's C-shape throughout.

    Source
  • The Elite's N4 pickups provide enhanced sparkle, twang, and crispness, significantly surpassing the N3 pickups in sound quality, especially in the bridge position.

    Source
  • The S-1 switch changes the middle pickup position from parallel to series, adding versatility to the tonal palette.

    Source
  • The Ocean Turquoise finish appears greener in person, offering a unique aesthetic that differs from online images.

    Source
  • Some owners appreciate the satin finish on the neck, preferring it over poly clear coats for a smoother feel.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Elite model includes a contoured heel allowing easier access to higher frets, enhancing playability for those frequently using the upper register.

    Source
  • The Elite has a gloss headstock finish, while the Deluxe is satin, though this difference wasn't immediately noticeable in-store.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users interested in the N4 sound might consider swapping out the N3 pickups in their Deluxe model, as it's a noted improvement.

    Source
  • Some users replaced the stock pickups with DiMarzio Chopper T and Area T for higher output, favoring a full sound over traditional Tele twang.

    Source

User experience

  • The neck on the Elite feels "beefier" at the shoulders, which some players might find more comfortable compared to the Ibanez-like thinness of the Deluxe at the body.

    Source
  • Owners report the 4th generation Noiseless pickups as significantly quieter and clearer, closely resembling classic Tele tones without the typical noise issues.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the effortless playability of the Elite Telecaster, describing it as the most comfortable guitar they've played.

    Source
  • The N4 Noiseless pickups are praised for clarity and reduced feedback, especially beneficial when using overdrive.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Blackstar HT-1R is noted for its surprising loudness and limited clean headroom, making it a good match for practicing with the Telecaster.

    Source

Other

  • The Aged Cherry finish is highlighted as particularly attractive, with multiple users expressing strong aesthetic appreciation for this color option.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender American Elite Telecaster Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Fender American Elite Telecaster is a modern powerhouse with sleek updates that may irk purists but delight modern players. It retains the classic Tele look with a stunning finish, while offering noise-free pickups, a fast, comfortable neck, and insane sustain. The modernized bridge and locking tuners enhance intonation and tuning stability. While it veers from vintage tones, the Elite compensates with robust, versatile sounds suitable for rock and country. The $1,799 price tag is justified by its quality build and innovative features. A bold choice for those seeking a contemporary Tele experience.

positive

Fender American Elite Telecaster review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Fender American Elite Telecaster impresses with its modern playability and noiseless pickups, offering slightly expanded sounds that will appeal to contemporary players. The new neck shape and updated features make it a classy, well-made piece that's lighter and more comfortable to play. However, it may not satisfy vintage purists due to limited additional sonic options. Overall, it's a charming guitar with great playability and modern upgrades, making it a solid choice for those seeking a contemporary Telecaster experience.

positive
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
droneswarm

Beautiful.

Fantastic guitar in every way. The only fault I can find is that I can't 'Chicken Pick'! I have the rosewood neck version.

tomlecomte

sound clear

. .

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Declan McKenna uses Fender American Elite Telecaster - Multiple Finishes

Declan McKenna

Singer, Guitarist

Declan McKenna

...
Verified via YouTube

I got it just before I came out to America. I needed a new guitar that was going to last me the whole trip, rather than my other one which was kind of falling to pieces. I got it just before I came, just a couple of days before I went to Florida.

See how Volkan Caner uses Fender American Elite Telecaster - Multiple Finishes

Volkan Caner

Singer, Guitarist

She Past Away

...
Verified via YouTube

Volkan plays an all black Fender Telecaster with a mapel fingerboard in this video of the band's live performance.

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

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    raziel
    raziel

    Gear IQ 268