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Average Price: $900

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Description

Unleash a world of musical possibilities with the Fender VG Stratocaster, the electric guitar that redefines versatility. Seamlessly blending the classic charm of a Strat with cutting-edge digital modeling technology, this guitar is a game-changer for musicians who crave diversity without compromise. The VG Stratocaster offers an impressive array of tones, allowing you to switch from the crisp twang of a Telecaster to the rich growl of a humbucker or even the warm resonance of an acoustic guitar—all at the flick of a switch.

What truly sets the VG Stratocaster apart is its built-in digital modeling capabilities, which provide an unparalleled range of sounds without the need for multiple guitars. With a simple dial, transform your sound to match various musical styles and genres effortlessly. Additionally, the innovative tuning options allow you to experiment with drop D, open G, and baritone tunings on the fly, making it an invaluable tool for live performances and studio sessions alike.

Crafted with Fender's renowned quality, the VG Stratocaster retains the iconic Stratocaster feel and playability, ensuring that traditionalists and innovators alike will find something to love. Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring musician, this guitar offers the perfect blend of classic and contemporary, making it an essential addition to any guitarist's arsenal.

Key Features:

  • Digital modeling technology for diverse sound profiles
  • Switchable tones including Telecaster, humbucker, and acoustic
  • Multiple tuning options: drop D, open G, baritone
  • Classic Stratocaster design with Fender’s signature playability
  • Ideal for both live performances and studio recordings

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model American Series VG Stratocaster
Finish 3-Color Sunburst, Black, Blizzard Pearl
Year 2007 - 2009
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Brown, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Model Family Fender Stratocaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender American Series, Fender American Standard

FAQs

What makes the Fender VG Stratocaster unique compared to a standard Stratocaster?

The Fender VG Stratocaster features integrated digital modeling technology, allowing it to simulate various guitar types, including a virtual Telecaster and a two-humbucker Strat, as well as different acoustic guitar sounds and alternate tunings.

Can the Fender VG Stratocaster switch between different tunings easily?

Yes, the VG Stratocaster includes a tune function rotary control that lets you switch quickly between standard tuning, Drop D, Open G, DADGAD, Baritone/Low B, and 12-string modes without needing to manually retune the guitar.

Is the Fender VG Stratocaster suitable for live performances?

The VG Stratocaster is well-suited for live performances due to its versatile digital modeling capabilities, allowing musicians to switch between different guitar sounds and tunings on the fly, making it ideal for diverse setlists.

What type of pickups does the Fender VG Stratocaster have?

The Fender VG Stratocaster is equipped with three single-coil pickups, providing the classic Stratocaster sound, while its digital modeling expands its tonal range significantly.

Does the Fender VG Stratocaster require any special power supply for its digital features?

Yes, the VG Stratocaster requires four AA batteries to power its digital modeling features, which include alternate tunings and guitar sound simulations.

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Roland/Fender VG Stratocaster, demo by Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for Roland/Fender VG Stratocaster, demo by Pete Thorn by Pete Thorn

Roland/Fender VG Stratocaster, demo by Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for Fender VG Stratocaster by aero722

Fender VG Stratocaster

aero722

aero722

Video thumbnail for The Only Guitar You Need? Fender VG Stratocaster USA by Dylan Smith Guitarist

The Only Guitar You Need? Fender VG Stratocaster USA

Dylan Smith Guitarist

Dylan Smith Guitarist

Video thumbnail for 2006 Fender Stratocaster VG Part1 by GregsGuitars

2006 Fender Stratocaster VG Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Retro Gear Review - Fender VG Stratocaster by Aaron Short Music

Retro Gear Review - Fender VG Stratocaster

Aaron Short Music

Aaron Short Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers a wide range of guitar emulations: Strat, Tele, Humbucker, Acoustic, and 12-string.

  • Features built-in Roland modeling technology for versatile sound options.

  • Allows quick tuning changes with a simple knob twist.

  • Functions as a standard Stratocaster when not using modeling features.

  • Eliminates need to carry multiple guitars for varied performances.

  • Self-contained system with no need for special amps or cables.

  • Considered a collector's item as it is discontinued.

  • Well-suited for live performances with diverse sound requirements.

  • High-quality construction with U.S. parts and assembly in Mexico.

CONS

  • Acoustic emulations can sound brittle or harsh.

  • Consumes AA batteries quickly; requires frequent replacements.

  • Older technology can be difficult to repair due to lack of replacement parts.

  • Heavier than typical Stratocasters due to added electronics.

  • Some tuning issues reported, such as half-step discrepancies.

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The Fender VG Stratocaster includes a Roland digital pickup for modeling, enhancing versatility for musicians playing in cover bands.

    Source
  • Owners highlight that even with the older Roland Midi Pickup (2007), the VG Stratocaster integrates well with modern gear like the Helix for dynamic sound options.

    Source
  • The divided pickup comprises 6 mini humbucking pickups, one for each string, enhancing individual string sound processing.

    Source
  • The acoustic setting changes the tone knob to a reverb control, offering enhanced live performance adaptability.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners mention it plays like a regular American Strat but offers additional tunings and sound options, making it a versatile choice for varied musical styles.

    Source
  • Battery life is a concern for some users, though others report they last a reasonable time.

    Source
  • Some users express satisfaction with the VG Stratocaster's traditional Stratocaster feel, suggesting that the additional sounds are a substantial bonus rather than a necessity.

    Source
  • Owners note that removing the battery holder when not in use may help prevent battery drain, suggesting a proactive approach to battery management.

    Source
  • Lithium batteries are recommended for consistent performance, especially for higher-gain music, where single-coil noise is more prominent.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A potential buyer considered a price of 800€ reasonable for its features, particularly for use in cover bands.

    Source
  • A user reported acquiring the VG Stratocaster for 700€, noting its excellent playability and sound quality as a strong value for the price.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users find that the electronic pickup hinders ultra-low action setups, unable to drop the strings as close to the fretboard as desired.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The VG Strat can be a lifesaver in performance situations requiring quick tuning changes, proving useful in unexpected gig scenarios.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The VG Stratocaster is compared to the Line 6 Variax, with the latter's Strat modeling being less convincing to some users.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender VG Stratocaster review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Fender VG Stratocaster is a groundbreaking digital modeling guitar that capitalizes on the classic Strat design, delivering a range of versatile tones. With its simple digital interface, it offers various tuning modes and modelled sounds, such as Stratocaster, Telecaster, and acoustic, making it a flexible tool for musicians. However, it suffers from short battery life and lacks phantom power and custom settings. Despite these drawbacks, its seamless integration of digital and analog features makes it a compelling choice for forward-thinking guitarists.

positive

Review: Fender VG Stratocaster — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

The Fender VG Stratocaster impresses with its versatility and ease of use, offering a plethora of authentic tones from Strat to Tele, humbucker, and acoustic, all at the twist of a knob. Its simplicity is a standout feature, requiring only standard guitar cables and powered by AA batteries. However, the lack of an alternative power option and the absence of a 13-pin VG/GK connection are missed opportunities. Despite these drawbacks, the VG Strat is a formidable tool for gigging musicians, providing a wide range of sounds without sacrificing playability or classic Fender aesthetics.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Sonny Landreth uses Fender VG Stratocaster

Sonny Landreth

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via pCloud

Sonny Landreth using the Fender VG Strat at Knuckleheads in Kansas City, July 25 2019.

See how Danny Baranowsky uses Fender VG Stratocaster

Danny Baranowsky

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Dbsoundworks

Under the gear list on his website, he lists the Fender VG Stratocaster 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 VG Stratocaster, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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