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Average Price: $2,600

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The Fender Telecaster from 1970 to 1975 stands as a testament to the era's craftsmanship, offering a distinct sound and style that has been cherished by musicians for decades. Known for its single-cutaway body design, this solid body electric guitar delivers a bright, cutting tone that remains a staple in both recording studios and live performances. Its vintage appeal is not just in its aesthetics but also in its construction, featuring a bolt-on neck that provides a snappy response and ease of playability. The Telecaster's dual single-coil pickups produce a versatile range of sounds, from crisp, clean tones to gritty, overdriven textures.

During this period, Fender experimented with their designs, and these models often showcase unique variations that collectors and players alike appreciate. The guitar's robust hardware includes a three-saddle bridge and Fender's classic tuning machines, ensuring stability and reliability during performances. The Telecaster's uncomplicated controls—volume, tone, and a three-way pickup selector—allow for seamless tonal adjustments, making it a favorite among rock, blues, and country musicians.

Whether you're a seasoned player or an avid collector, the Fender Telecaster from this era is a piece of musical history that offers both timeless sound quality and a classic look. This guitar is not just an instrument; it's an enduring icon that continues to inspire and excite musicians around the world.

Key Features:

  • Solid body with single-cutaway design
  • Bolt-on maple neck
  • Dual single-coil pickups
  • Classic three-saddle bridge
  • Simple volume, tone, and three-way pickup selector controls
  • Vintage-style tuning machines

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Telecaster with Maple Fretboard, Telecaster with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Black, Blonde, Candy Apple Red, Firemist Gold, Firemist Silver, Lake Placid Blue, Natural, Ocean Turquoise, Olympic White, Sonic Blue, Sunburst, Walnut (Mocha)
Year 1970 - 1975
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, Red, Silver, Tan, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Model Family Fender Telecaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Vintage CBS Era

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from a 1970-1975 Fender Telecaster?

The Fender Telecaster from 1970-1975 delivers classic bright and twangy tones, ideal for rock, country, and blues. Its single-coil pickups provide a clear, cutting sound with a pronounced midrange.

How does the neck profile of a 1970-1975 Fender Telecaster feel?

The neck profile of a 1970-1975 Fender Telecaster is typically a "C" shape, offering a comfortable feel suitable for most playing styles, from rhythm to lead.

What are the differences between the maple and rosewood fretboards on a 1970-1975 Fender Telecaster?

Maple fretboards offer a brighter, snappier tone, while rosewood fretboards provide a warmer, more rounded sound. The choice affects both the tonal characteristics and the aesthetic appeal of the guitar.

Is the 1970-1975 Fender Telecaster suitable for beginners?

While the 1970-1975 Fender Telecaster is a classic and versatile instrument, its vintage status and potential high value might make it more suitable for experienced players or collectors.

What body materials are used in the 1970-1975 Fender Telecaster?

The body of the 1970-1975 Fender Telecaster is typically made from alder or ash, contributing to its resonant and balanced tonal qualities.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

1975 Fender Telecaster | Guitar of the Day - Tom Petty Week!

Video thumbnail for 1975 Fender Telecaster | Guitar of the Day - Tom Petty Week! by Normans Rare Guitars

1975 Fender Telecaster | Guitar of the Day - Tom Petty Week!

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Vintage vs Modern Telecaster: Are 70’s Fenders Really That Bad? by Peach Guitars

Vintage vs Modern Telecaster: Are 70’s Fenders Really That Bad?

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1975 Fender Telecaster Blonde | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1975 Fender Telecaster Blonde | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 1973 Fender Telecaster and 1968 Pro Reverb by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1973 Fender Telecaster and 1968 Pro Reverb

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1975 Fender Telecaster - Blond / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1975 Fender Telecaster - Blond / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for 1975 Fender Telecaster - Blond / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars by GuitarPoint

1975 Fender Telecaster - Blond / GuitarPoint Maintal / Vintage Guitars

GuitarPoint

GuitarPoint

Video thumbnail for 1975 Fender Telecaster (Tele Tuesday) by Dave Simpson

1975 Fender Telecaster (Tele Tuesday)

Dave Simpson

Dave Simpson

Video thumbnail for 1970s Fender Telecaster Comparision - "The World of Vintage Guitars" by No.1 Guitar Center

1970s Fender Telecaster Comparision - "The World of Vintage Guitars"

No.1 Guitar Center

No.1 Guitar Center

Reviews

PROS

  • Authentic vintage feel with unique patina and wear spots

  • Powerful pickups offering distinct sound, similar to Keith Richards

  • Superior playability and action compared to other years

  • 1970 model is often highlighted for its exceptional quality

  • Nitro headstock adds to the historical appeal

  • Lollar Vintage Tele pickups provide incredible tone and intonation

  • Original hang tags and case enhance collectible value

  • Known for its distinct bridge pickup bite and tone

CONS

  • Neck pickup lacks output compared to bridge pickup

  • Some models may require a refret for optimal playability

  • Requires adjustment to achieve the bright treble of earlier models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Telecaster (1970 - 1975).

Features and functionality

  • The CuNiFe wide-range humbucker offers a distinct tone that balances single-coil clarity with a robust bottom end, avoiding the noise typical of standard humbuckers.

    Source
  • The large CBS-era headstock is noted for its distinct appearance, reportedly designed to enhance visibility for television advertising.

    Source
  • The unique tonal combination of pickups is considered a "game changer," especially when both pickups are used together for a distinct sound.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The glossy nitro finish on the neck initially feels sticky but improves as it wears in over time.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners appreciate the authenticity of this model compared to older made-in-Mexico Telecaster Customs, especially considering the price point.

    Source
  • The Squier 70's Classic Vibe with a neck humbucker is noted to sound great, but owners believe the original Custom Telecaster significantly surpasses it.

    Source

User experience

  • Enthusiasts find the modern neck radius a dream to play, enhancing the overall playing experience.

    Source
  • Despite its large headstock, owners report the guitar is lightweight, with one verified at 7 lbs 14 oz.

    Source
  • Some players find the pickup switch placement intrusive during play, impacting their playing comfort.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Stock saddles are commonly replaced, suggesting potential for customization in this area.

    Source
  • An owner with a similar model mentions having machined saddles, suggesting potential for hardware upgrades in this area.

    Source

Build quality

  • The 1973 Telecaster Deluxe's "Walnut" finish, often misnamed "Mocha," reflects a unique vintage aesthetic, rooted in its original naming on a 1973 price list.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Original 1973 models reach high resale prices, around $3800, leading some buyers to consider more affordable reissues.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The middle pickup position is highlighted for its thick, cutting tone with thump, ideal for clean tones through a blackface amp or with overdrive.

    Source
  • Keith Richards frequently used his Custom Telecaster for standard tuning songs during the Rolling Stones' 1981-82 tour, showcasing its versatility.

    Source
  • The Telecaster Custom is associated with iconic performances, such as Danny Dias and Jeff Skunk Baxter's appearances in Steely Dan's Midnight Special videos.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Ricky Byrd uses Fender Telecaster (1970 - 1975)

Ricky Byrd

Singer, Guitarist

Joan Jett and the Blackhearts

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: Natural Year: 1973

Ricky Byrd's use of a Fender Telecaster (1970 - 1975) is confirmed through his Instagram and a 1973 model is specifically verified in an interview with Vintage Guitar Magazine.

Genre Usage

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

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