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Average Price: $2,199

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

Introducing the Fender Tele-Sonic, a true evolution of the classic Telecaster, designed for musicians who crave both tradition and innovation. This unique electric guitar sets itself apart with a chambered mahogany body, offering not only a lighter feel but also a richer, more resonant tone. The 24.75" scale length is a nod to the familiar feel of vintage guitars, making it perfect for players who appreciate a slightly softer string tension and warmer sound.

At the heart of the Tele-Sonic's distinctive voice are the DeArmond USA 2K single-coil pickups, known for their clarity and punch. These pickups deliver a versatile range of tones, from shimmering cleans to gritty overdrive, making this guitar a versatile choice for a wide array of genres. Whether you're jamming in a community setting or recording your next big hit, the Tele-Sonic is your reliable partner.

The guitar also features a Wilkinson stud tailpiece, ensuring stable tuning and intonation, while providing the classic aesthetics that Fender is renowned for. Its design is a delightful blend of the past and present, making it a standout piece in any musician's collection.

Key Features:

  • Chambered mahogany body for enhanced resonance
  • 24.75" scale length for vintage feel and playability
  • DeArmond USA 2K single-coil pickups for versatile tones
  • Wilkinson stud tailpiece for stable tuning
  • Unique combination of classic style and modern innovation

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Tele-Sonic
Finish Brown Sunburst, Butterscotch Blonde, Crimson Red Transparent
Year 1998 - 2003
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Wrap-Around
Color Family Brown, Red, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Telecaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fender Telecaster-Sonic?

The Fender Telecaster-Sonic features a comfortable bolt-on maple neck with a 24.75" scale length, providing a smooth playing experience suitable for various playing styles.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Fender Telecaster-Sonic pickups?

The Fender Telecaster-Sonic is equipped with SS pickups, offering a classic Telecaster twang with rich, warm tones, making it versatile for genres like rock, blues, and country.

Is the Fender Telecaster-Sonic suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Telecaster-Sonic is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile and versatile sound, which can accommodate a wide range of musical styles.

What materials are used in the construction of the Fender Telecaster-Sonic?

The Fender Telecaster-Sonic features a mahogany body, maple neck, and rosewood fretboard, providing a balanced tonal quality with sustain and warmth.

How does the wrap-around bridge on the Fender Telecaster-Sonic affect playability?

The wrap-around bridge on the Fender Telecaster-Sonic enhances sustain and provides stable tuning, making it ideal for players who appreciate straightforward, reliable hardware.

James Oliver Guitar

James Oliver Guitar

Fender Telesonic rare electric guitar review and demo by James Oliver

Video thumbnail for Fender Telesonic rare electric guitar review and demo by James Oliver by James Oliver Guitar

Fender Telesonic rare electric guitar review and demo by James Oliver

James Oliver Guitar

James Oliver Guitar

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique blend of Telecaster and Gretsch tonal qualities

  • Shorter scale length offers a different feel from standard Fenders

  • 2k pickups provide a P90-like construction and feel

  • Versatile sound, from fat and jazzy to bluesy and twangy

  • High-quality craftsmanship and solid build

  • Organic sound suitable for blues and rock styles

  • Stunning aesthetic appeal, especially in crimson red

CONS

  • Original Wilkinson bridge might not suit everyone's preference

  • Tuning can feel slippery, with slack in some tuners

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The Tele-Sonic features a unique bridge with an adjustable section for intonation, which some users find visually unbalanced and challenging during string changes.

    Source
  • The Tele-Sonic has a shorter 24.75” scale length, contributing to its smooth and glassy sound, and facilitates playing styles that benefit from a shorter neck.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Described as a hybrid between Fender and Gibson, the Tele-Sonic offers a distinct sound due to its chambered mahogany body and DeArmond 2K pickups.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The bridge relies on string tension to stay in place, complicating the process of changing all strings simultaneously.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A unique instance of weight relief modification was observed on a celebrity-owned Tele-Sonic, where the back was routed and filled with lightweight material.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mike Kinsella uses Fender Telecaster-Sonic

Mike Kinsella

Singer, Guitarist

American Football

...
Verified via YouTube

Mike could be seen playing this guitar at the Webster Hall until somebody stole it a few months ago

See how Steve Cradock uses Fender Telecaster-Sonic

Steve Cradock

Singer, Guitarist

Ocean Colour Scene

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, you can see Cradock playing this Cream Fender Telecaster

See how Lindsay Lohan uses Fender Telecaster-Sonic

Lindsay Lohan

Singer

...
Verified via Photo

Although Tele-Sonic wasn't really popular, but in this photo, Lohan is pictured with the Tele-Sonic guitar.

See how Micah P. Hinson uses Fender Telecaster-Sonic

Micah P. Hinson

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo you can see Micah P. Hinson playing a red Fender Tele-Sonic.

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fender Telecaster-Sonic, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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