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Description

Well-known as the Grammy-winning founder of influential U.S. punk band Rancid, Tim Armstrong has also carved paths as a well-respected producer and indie label owner. A longtime fixture on the punk scene, he has always turned to his old Fender concert-style acoustic for songwriting inspiration. The Tim Armstrong Anniversary Hellcat celebrates 10 years in partnership with Fender, and is based on Armstrong's own instrument from the 1960s, which makes for a great guitar for pop, rock, folk and more. It features upgraded modern appointments such as a solid spruce top, high-quality onboard electronics, gold hardware, and Tim’s signature Hellcat inlay.

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Tim Armstrong Hellcat 10th Anniversary
Finish Black
Year 2020
Categories Concert Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Artist Tim Armstrong
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Concert
Color Family Black
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Walnut
Model Family Fender Hellcat
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 19
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.69"
Pickup Undersaddle Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Artist Series
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What type of music is the Fender Tim Armstrong 10th Anniversary Hellcat suitable for?

The Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat is versatile and well-suited for a range of genres, including punk, folk, and rock, thanks to its concert body shape and active preamp, which provide a balanced and powerful sound.

Does the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat come with a built-in pickup?

Yes, the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat features an undersaddle piezo pickup with an active preamp, allowing you to plug in and amplify your sound for live performances or recording.

What materials are used in the construction of the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat?

The Hellcat features a spruce top, mahogany back and sides, a maple neck, and a walnut fretboard, providing a warm and resonant tone with a comfortable playing experience.

Is the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat easy to play for beginners?

Yes, the Hellcat's concert body shape and 1.69" nut width make it comfortable and easy to play, making it a good choice for beginners who want an acoustic-electric guitar.

Does the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat have any special design features?

The Hellcat features a unique black gloss finish with a matching headstock and signature Tim Armstrong appointments, giving it a distinctive look that stands out on stage.

Fender

Fender

Tim Armstrong Anniversary Hellcat | Artist Signature Series | Fender

Video thumbnail for Tim Armstrong Anniversary Hellcat | Artist Signature Series | Fender by Fender

Tim Armstrong Anniversary Hellcat | Artist Signature Series | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for NEW GUITAR FENDER HELLCAT TIM AMSTRONG(RANCID) SPECIAL EDITION 10 YEARS ANNIVERSARY by Mink Jer

NEW GUITAR FENDER HELLCAT TIM AMSTRONG(RANCID) SPECIAL EDITION 10 YEARS ANNIVERSARY

Mink Jer

Mink Jer

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Tim Armstrong 10th Anniversary Hellcat.

Build quality

  • Owners describe the Hellcat as durable, withstanding extreme weather and travel abuse without significant wear.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The smaller body size suits players who find dreadnoughts too large, providing comfort without sacrificing playability.

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User experience

  • Described as having a warm, raspy tone, the Hellcat is favored for its vibe and character, even among those with higher-end guitars.

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  • Some users note the guitar's lower volume as advantageous, especially when primarily playing plugged-in.

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  • The Hellcat's glossy finish and solid spruce top in the 10th anniversary edition result in a punchier sound compared to the regular version.

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  • One user noted the delightful smell of the guitar, adding to the sensory enjoyment of ownership.

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Features and functionality

  • Built-in tuner is appreciated by users, adding convenience for on-the-go play without extra gear.

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  • The fretboard is described as one of the best acoustic fretboards, almost akin to an electric neck with jumbo frets, part of Fender's "playable necks" series.

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  • The zero fret feature, where a fret is used instead of a nut, is praised for its ease of transition and playability.

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Comparisons

  • A user compared it to a Martin X series 00, finding the latter more suited to their voice but acknowledging the Hellcat's unique appeal.

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  • Suggested alternatives for similar sounds include Yamaha FS850, Alvarez AP66, and Guild OM 120 for those seeking different tonal qualities.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Initial setup may require adjustments such as sanding frets and lubricating tuners for optimal playability.

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Critic Reviews

Rancid's Tim Armstrong Unveils 10th Anniversary Fender Hellcat Guitar

consequence.net

Tim Armstrong's 10th Anniversary Fender Hellcat offers a solid blend of punk aesthetics and practical features, perfect for both seasoned players and newcomers. The guitar retains the original's striking design, complete with signature double-skull inlays and a functional Fishman pickup/preamp system. Its comfortable neck and versatile playability make it a joy for live performances or casual jamming. However, some may find that the guitar lacks a bit of depth in tone compared to higher-end models. Overall, it stands as a commendable tribute to Armstrong’s legacy while appealing to a broad audience.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tim Armstrong uses Fender Tim Armstrong 10th Anniversary Hellcat

Tim Armstrong

Singer, Guitarist

Rancid

...
Verified via Photo

Tim Armstrong recorded two live tracks with this guitar when launching the Fender Tim Armstrong 10th Anniversary Hellcat.

See how Kevin Bivona uses Fender Tim Armstrong 10th Anniversary Hellcat

Kevin Bivona

Guitarist

Rancid

...
Verified via YouTube

At the beginning of this livestream with Fender Kevin plays 'Ruby Soho' by Rancid on a 10th Anniversary Hellcat

(Speculation) He says "i was lucky enough to get one of these" which could mean it was gifted by Tim Armstrong himself since they collaborate very often.

S

Stacey Dee

Singer, Guitarist

Bad Cop/Bad Cop

...
Verified via Photo

At 0:37 Stacey is shown playing this guitar.

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 Tim Armstrong 10th Anniversary Hellcat, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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