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Average Price: $4,600

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Crafted in collaboration with legendary session player and former SNL band leader, G.E Smith, the Fender G.E Smith Signature Telecaster is a true embodiment of timeless craftsmanship and modern playability. This guitar pays homage to the classic Telecaster design while integrating unique features tailored to Smith's distinct playing style. The body-mounted bridge pickup delivers an unparalleled resonance and punch, ensuring that every note you play cuts through with precision and clarity.

The deep U-shaped neck profile is a nod to the vintage feel, providing a comfortable grip that seasoned players will appreciate. This is complemented by the guitar's distinctive oblong neck inlays, offering a visual flair that sets it apart from the crowd. Whether you're jamming on stage or recording in the studio, the G.E Smith Signature Telecaster is built to perform, offering a balanced blend of tonal warmth and sharp articulation.

This guitar is more than just an instrument; it's a statement piece for musicians who demand both style and substance. Dive into a world of rich tones and expressive dynamics with a guitar that's designed to stand the test of time.

Key Features:

  • Body-mounted bridge pickup for enhanced resonance
  • Deep U-shaped neck profile for a vintage feel
  • Unique oblong neck inlays for distinct aesthetics
  • Designed in collaboration with G.E Smith
  • High-quality craftsmanship for superior playability and sound

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model GE Smith Artist Series Signature Telecaster
Finish Black, Dakota Red, Honey Blonde
Year 2007 - 2014
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Artist G.E. Smith
Body Material Ash
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Black, Red, Yellow
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Telecaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Artist Series

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster?

The Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster features a one-piece maple U-shaped neck, which provides a comfortable and solid grip, ideal for players who prefer a thicker neck profile.

What type of pickups are used in the Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster?

This Telecaster is equipped with two American Vintage Tele pickups, offering a classic, bright Telecaster tone with a vintage vibe.

Is the Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster suitable for beginners?

While it can be played by beginners, the Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster is designed for more experienced players, offering premium features and craftsmanship that cater to advanced musicians.

How does the Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster differ from other Telecasters?

This model combines elements from a '40s-era Fender lap steel with a '50s-era Telecaster, featuring a unique body-mounted bridge pickup for a distinctive sound and aesthetic.

What is the fretboard radius of the Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster?

The fretboard of the Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster has a 7-1/4" radius, providing a vintage feel that is well-suited for chord playing and vintage-style bends.

Fender

Fender

The G.E. Smith Telecaster® | Fender

Video thumbnail for The G.E. Smith Telecaster® | Fender by Fender

The G.E. Smith Telecaster® | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for G.E. Smith Telecaster in to a Tone King Continental by NachoEscamilla

G.E. Smith Telecaster in to a Tone King Continental

NachoEscamilla

NachoEscamilla

Video thumbnail for Dan Miles demos Fender GE Smith Telecaster by Emerald City Guitars

Dan Miles demos Fender GE Smith Telecaster

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for Garagem Rock'n'Blues - Fender Artist & Series G.E. Smith Telecaster by Lucas Sgreccia

Garagem Rock'n'Blues - Fender Artist & Series G.E. Smith Telecaster

Lucas Sgreccia

Lucas Sgreccia

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique "U" shaped neck offers comfort and playability

  • Direct mounted bridge pickup for a fatter sound

  • Vintage V neck profile is rare and sought after

  • High-quality build reminiscent of a custom shop model

  • Quiet pickups with vintage Fender clarity

  • Lightweight, resonant body enhances playability

  • Lap steel inspired inlays add a distinctive touch

  • Custom modifications enhance versatility and tone

  • Excellent sustain and tonal richness

  • High-quality components like CTS pots and Switchcraft switches

CONS

  • Tiny vintage frets may require eventual replacement

  • Glossy neck finish may cause drag for some players

  • Discontinued model, difficult to find new

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender G.E Smith Signature Telecaster.

Features and functionality

  • The G.E. Smith Telecaster uses a half bridge with the bridge pickup mounted directly to the body, aiming for a "fatter" sound similar to early Fender lap steels.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • With a half bridge, an independent ground is necessary since the traditional string-to-bridge grounding method is altered.

    Source
  • Some users switch the G.E. Smith Telecaster to a 5-way switch setup for more versatile tonal options, including series and tone cap settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners note that the difference in sound between short and full bridges is subtle, with some preferring the perceived "warmer" tone of the shorter bridge.

    Source
  • Players often compare the G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster to Ron Kirn's Barnbuster, noting the latter's reclaimed barn wood for its distinct tonal qualities.

    Source
  • The G.E. Smith model is suggested alongside the '52 Reissue for those seeking a vintage Fender feel, with the Reissue offering a chunkier neck profile.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It's possible to use custom short-style bridges from brands like Fender, Allparts, and Wilkinson, with some preferring Glendale for their partscasters.

    Source
  • Owners recommend Lindy Fralin pickups for enhanced tonal warmth, with many opting for Blues Specials to achieve a classic Telecaster sound.

    Source

User experience

  • Some players like the traditional bridge for resting their pinky, but those without this habit often find the short bridge cool and functional.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's noted that the G.E. Smith Telecaster is favored by players looking for a versatile instrument suitable for both blues and country music styles.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender G.E. Smith Telecaster | Vintage Guitar® magazine

vintageguitar.com

The Fender G.E. Smith Signature Telecaster is a finely crafted nod to vintage enthusiasts, boasting impeccable build quality and unique features like the '40s lap steel-style fretboard inlays. Its standout trait is the bridge pickup mounted directly to the body, enhancing performance with high-gain amps without feedback issues. The guitar delivers a rich, thick tone across genres, though it sacrifices some traditional Telecaster brightness. Ideal for those seeking a versatile, less twangy guitar, it excels in R&B, rock, and even chicken picking. While not for purists, it offers a fresh take on classic Fender elements.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how G. E. Smith uses Fender G.E Smith Signature Telecaster

G. E. Smith

Guitarist

Hall & Oates

...
Verified via YouTube

At 5:07 of this video G.E shows off his prototype Telecaster. He also shows a red production model at 5:52

Genre Usage

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

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