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Average Price: $750

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Description

In the vibrant world of electric guitars, the G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster Powered By Roland stands as a beacon of versatility and innovation. Blending Fender’s iconic craftsmanship with Roland’s cutting-edge technology, this guitar is a playground for musicians who crave diverse soundscapes without being tethered to external gear. The built-in sound engine is the heart of this instrument, offering players the ability to seamlessly switch between a variety of classic guitar tones—from the unmistakable twang of a single coil Telecaster to the rich warmth of an L4 jazzbox or the crisp resonance of a Martin-style acoustic.

The G-5 VG Stratocaster doesn’t stop at just tonal variety. With its intuitive controls, players can explore a multitude of alternate tunings such as drop D, open G, and baritone, all at the flip of a switch, enabling rapid transitions between different musical styles and genres. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar provides an unparalleled level of adaptability, making it a favorite among adventurous musicians who love to push boundaries.

Key Features:

  • Built-in Roland sound engine for a wide variety of guitar tones
  • Seamless switching between classic guitar sounds: Telecaster, L4 jazzbox, Martin acoustic, and more
  • Alternate tunings available, including drop D, open G, and baritone
  • Intuitive controls for easy sound and tuning adjustments
  • Iconic Fender Stratocaster design with modern technological enhancements

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model G-5 VG Stratocaster
Finish 3-Color Sunburst, Black
Year 2012 - 2015
Made In Mexico
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Brown
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"

FAQs

What unique features does the G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster offer compared to a standard Stratocaster?

The G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster is equipped with Roland's COSM technology, allowing it to model different guitar tones and tunings, including Stratocaster, Telecaster, humbucking pickups, acoustic guitar sounds, and alternate tunings like Drop D and Baritone.

Can the G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster switch between different tunings quickly?

Yes, the G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster features a tuning knob that allows you to switch between six tunings, including Normal, Drop D, Open G, D Modal, Baritone, and 12-String, instantly.

What type of pickups does the G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster use?

The G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster uses three Fender single-coil pickups for classic Strat tones, along with an embedded Roland GK divided pickup for modeling various guitar sounds.

Is the G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster suitable for live performances?

Yes, the G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster is ideal for live performances, offering a wide range of tones and tunings that can be changed on the fly, making it versatile for various musical styles.

What is the neck profile of the G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster?

The G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster features a 25.5" scale maple neck with a choice of rosewood or maple fretboard, providing a comfortable playing experience typical of Fender guitars.

rolandmedia

rolandmedia

Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster® — Steve Stevens Demo

Video thumbnail for Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster® — Steve Stevens Demo by rolandmedia

Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster® — Steve Stevens Demo

rolandmedia

rolandmedia

Video thumbnail for G-5 VG Stratocaster®: V-Guitar Demo Performed by Alex Hutchings by RolandChannel

G-5 VG Stratocaster®: V-Guitar Demo Performed by Alex Hutchings

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for Sweetwater at NAMM 2012 - Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster Demo by Sweetwater

Sweetwater at NAMM 2012 - Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster Demo

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for ROLAND G-5 :: VG-Stratocaster by ROLAND Germany

ROLAND G-5 :: VG-Stratocaster

ROLAND Germany

Video thumbnail for Fender Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster Guitar Review and Demo | Better Music by Better Music

Fender Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster Guitar Review and Demo | Better Music

Better Music

Better Music

Video thumbnail for Fender® G5 Powered by Roland COSM® VG Strat® Electric Guitar by Allans Billy Hyde

Fender® G5 Powered by Roland COSM® VG Strat® Electric Guitar

Allans Billy Hyde

Allans Billy Hyde

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional build quality for a Mexican-made Stratocaster

  • Seamless integration of Roland electronics through a single 1/4" jack

  • Convincing modeled sounds, especially the acoustic tone

  • Efficient and user-friendly alternate tuning options

  • No 60 cycle hum, even in noisy environments

  • Humbucker and 12-string modes offer versatile tonal options

  • Drop D and baritone settings enhance musical flexibility

  • Instantly switch between Strat, Tele, and Humbucker tones

  • Functions as a versatile "Swiss Army Knife" for musicians

CONS

  • Requires batteries for advanced Roland features

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster Powered By Roland.

Use cases and applications

  • While some question its studio utility, the VG Strat's ability to switch sounds mid-song is highlighted as beneficial for live performances.

    Source
  • The guitar integrates well with vintage Roland synths like the GR-50, VG8, VG88, and VG99, which can be acquired at lower prices.

    Source
  • On-the-fly alternate tunings are a standout feature for live performance versatility, especially in jam sessions and open mics.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Fishman TriplePlay is mentioned as a modern alternative for MIDI functionality, suggesting improved tracking and Bluetooth connections over older Roland systems.

    Source
  • The VG Strat is compared to the Variax, with some users considering it a simplified version that does not compromise on quality.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners report that the nut may appear unusual without grooves for the E and A strings, potentially requiring adjustment.

    Source
  • Concerns about battery life due to high processing power are raised, suggesting a potential need for frequent battery replacements.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • For $380, it offers a unique blend of standard Strat features with added MIDI capabilities, seen as a good deal compared to new prices or similar models.

    Source
  • The VG-5 version (MIM) is priced at $699, while the VG-5A (MIA) is $1698, offering different tiers for affordability.

    Source

User experience

  • Users note the MIDI hardware increases the guitar's weight by at least a pound, making it heavier than typical Mexican Strats, potentially affecting playability.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the guitar's ability to combine synth settings with stock pickups, offering 37 sound combinations.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The guitar's 13-pin output is not a standard MIDI cable and requires additional equipment like Roland guitar synths or a MIDI converter for full functionality.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Roland GK-2 pickup enables blending MIDI output with traditional magnetic pickup sound, providing flexible sound options directly from the guitar.

    Source
  • The VG Strat features modeled Strat, Tele, humbucker, and acoustic modes, plus tuning options like drop D, open G, open D, baritone, and 12 string.

    Source
  • The guitar integrates both simulated and actual Strat sounds, achieved by converting each string's signal to a MIDI-like format for precise tuning changes.

    Source
  • The VG Strat includes a digital pickup system enabling real-time tuning and sound emulation, akin to a pitch-shifting pedal but with greater accuracy.

    Source

Other

  • Despite its advanced electronics, some users still resort to traditional clip-on tuners for accuracy, suggesting potential skepticism about onboard tuning fidelity.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gear Review: Roland Fender G-5 VG Stratocaster - Roland Resource Centre

rolandcorp.com.au

The Fender Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster impresses with its high build quality and the seamless integration of advanced modeling technology, allowing it to mimic various guitar styles, from Telecaster to baritone, with no latency issues. While purists might scoff at its technological flair, the guitar shines as a versatile tool for cover bands and studio work. Its ability to switch tunings effortlessly adds creative flexibility, making it a potential inspiration for songwriting. Despite the hefty price tag and lack of a hard case, the G-5 stands out as a practical, fun, and innovative instrument, especially for musicians seeking versatility in a single guitar.

positive

Roland G-5 VG Stratocaster Review: Top Features - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster Powered by Roland stands out for its impressive versatility and ease of use, providing a range of modeled electric and acoustic tones. While the electric models, especially the Telecaster, are praised for their tonal quirks and clarity, the acoustic models falter with a digital edge and lack warmth. The guitar’s ability to switch between modes with simplicity makes it appealing, though some volume discrepancies between modeled and standard modes were noted. At $1,299, it's an innovative tool for gigging guitarists seeking diverse sound options without overwhelming complexity.

positive

Roland G-5 VG Fender Stratocaster review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster powered by Roland is a mixed bag, offering solid alternate tuning features and a reliable Fender chassis, but falling short in some sound modeling aspects. Its alternate tuning modes shine, surpassing competitors like the Line 6 Variax, and the familiar Stratocaster body is a plus. However, the nylon-string and jazz sounds disappoint, and there's a lack of software support and rechargeable battery. Overall, it's a decent choice for those seeking tuning versatility without multiple guitars, but don't expect it to fully replace traditional models in sound quality.

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Artist usage

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See how Positive Mental Trip uses G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster Powered By Roland

Positive Mental Trip

Singer, Guitarist

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Verified via YouTube

Luke Weiler of Positive Mental Trip has had a Fender VG American Stratocaster in his live show as his main electric guitar from 2008-2016. In 2017-2019 PMT era Luke has been seen using a Gibson Sg standard as well as a Godin Multiac nylon string synth guitar as well. The VG Fender Stratocaster is heard on almost all electric guitar tracks on Positive Mental trip’s “change your mind” (2012) and “The Black and White Album” (2017) The Fender american VG Stratocaster will always be a part of Positive Mental Trip’s live show and recordings even if it starts to be less and less as the years go on. Luke has said he will be using the Roland pickup on the guitar to utilize alternate tunings on the new album without having to change to a guitar with a different tuning. It’s always cool to try different tunings as it forces your to write differently and step outside of your comfort zone into another realm of guitar sounds.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use G-5 Fender VG Stratocaster Powered By Roland, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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