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Description

The Fender Stratocaster Black Japan '89 is a testament to the craftsmanship and tradition that Fender has nurtured over decades. Crafted in Japan, this guitar is a true embodiment of precision and quality, making it a favorite among collectors and players alike. It offers an authentic vintage vibe with its classic design while delivering the modern playability that musicians demand. The Stratocaster's iconic triple single-coil pickups provide a versatile tonal palette, from bright and crisp to warm and smooth, perfect for any genre from rock to jazz.

Its solid body ensures durability and a resonant tone, while the maple neck and fingerboard offer a smooth playing experience with a comfortable grip. The guitar's 21 frets are meticulously finished, allowing for effortless play across the entire neck. Coupled with a synchronized tremolo bridge, the Stratocaster enables expressive bends and pitch variations, perfect for both subtle vibrato and dramatic dive bombs.

This 1989 model is not just a musical instrument; it is a piece of history that continues to inspire with its timeless sound and exceptional build quality. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring guitarist, the Fender Stratocaster Black Japan '89 is an instrument that will stand the test of time.

Key Features:

  • Crafted in Japan with meticulous attention to detail
  • Solid body for enhanced resonance and durability
  • Iconic triple single-coil pickups for versatile tonal options
  • Maple neck and fingerboard for smooth playability
  • 21 frets with precise finishing
  • Synchronized tremolo bridge for expressive pitch control

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Stratocaster Japan 89'.

Build quality

  • Some MIJ Strats have "Fujigen gakki" origins, which are highly regarded for their craftsmanship.

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  • The '89 MIJ Strat necks are often praised for their tinted maple finish, considered superior to many MIA necks.

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Features and functionality

  • MIJ models might feature a 7.25" neck radius, which can affect playability, especially for players who frequently perform deep bends.

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  • Certain MIJ Strats are noted for having a thick poly finish that can feel brittle over time.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest upgrading MIJ electronics, such as installing USA pickups like Texas Specials for improved tone.

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  • Owners frequently rewire MIJ Strats and replace stock pickups, with some suggesting Seymour Duncan SH-1 '59 for tonal improvement.

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Comparisons

  • Fujigen-made MIJ Strats are often compared favorably to MIA models of the same era in terms of build quality.

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  • A 1986 MIJ Strat was compared favorably with high-end models like Suhr Classic S and PRS McCarty 594 for feel and playability.

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User experience

  • The neck pickup on standard MIJ Strats is praised as one of the best guitar pickups, even without aftermarket upgrades.

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  • Some players find the basswood bodies of MIJ Strats more prone to dents, offering a familiar, worn-in feel over time.

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Other

  • MIJ Strats from the late '80s and early '90s are known for having varied serial number placements, which can help identify authenticity.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Users report that vintage MIJ models often come with tiny vintage frets, which might require adjustment for modern playstyles.

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Value and pricing

  • Despite recent price increases, MIJ Strats remain a sought-after option for quality and are considered just under custom shop craftsmanship.

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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funkylibrarian82

Top tone but some issues

Overall this guitar is a brilliant guitar and has a a great tone and super action. I bought this guitar brand new from a guitar shop in Manchester in 2013 and has been a reliable axe for a long time. However, months after buying it, the pickups started to decay and the wiring was dodgy. After rewiring it it worked very well, but it was costy.

Artist usage

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See how Florian Dubos uses Fender Stratocaster Japan 89'

Florian Dubos

Singer, Guitarist

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Verified via Photo

Florian Dubos uses a 1989 Fender Stratocaster Black Japan, equipped with a Seymour Duncan pickup at the bridge. The ownership is evidenced by a user-uploaded photo.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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