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Average Price: $2,900

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$1001+

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Description

The Telecaster Deluxe 73 is a harmonious blend of vintage charm and modern innovation, designed to satisfy the discerning tastes of today's musicians. Born from Fender's CBS era, this reimagined icon boasts a pair of Wide Range humbuckers, meticulously crafted by the legendary Seth Lover. These pickups offer a rich, dynamic tonal range that can effortlessly shift from smooth jazz to gritty rock, making it a versatile choice for any musical genre.

The guitar's Strat-style headstock not only adds a bold visual statement but also contributes to its balanced feel and playability. A solid body construction ensures durability, while the maple neck provides a smooth, comfortable grip for both intricate solos and powerful chords. The Telecaster Deluxe 73's unique design mirrors the era's embrace of heavier rock sounds, making it a perfect companion for those looking to push their sonic boundaries.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring artist, the Telecaster Deluxe 73 offers a robust platform to express your musical voice. Its distinctive blend of classic and contemporary features ensures it will remain a staple in your collection for years to come.

Key Features:

  • Wide Range humbuckers designed by Seth Lover
  • Strat-style headstock for enhanced playability
  • Solid body construction
  • Maple neck for smooth playing experience
  • Versatile tonal range suitable for various music genres

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Telecaster Deluxe
Finish Antigua, Black, Blonde, Natural, Sunburst, Walnut (Mocha), White, Wine
Year 1972 - 1981
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Black, Brown, Red, Tan, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Telecaster
Model Sub-Family Fender Telecaster Deluxe
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Vintage CBS Era

FAQs

What kind of pickups does the Telecaster Deluxe 73 have?

The Telecaster Deluxe 73 is equipped with two humbucker pickups, each with its own volume and tone controls, providing a versatile range of tones suitable for various music genres.

How does the neck profile of the Telecaster Deluxe 73 affect playability?

The Telecaster Deluxe 73 features a bolt-on maple neck with a 25.5" scale length, offering a comfortable and familiar feel for players accustomed to Fender necks, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead playing.

Is the Telecaster Deluxe 73 suitable for heavy rock music?

Yes, the Telecaster Deluxe 73 was designed to compete with heavier rock guitars like the Gibson Les Paul, thanks to its dual humbucker pickups that deliver a powerful and thick tone ideal for rock.

What finishes are available for the Telecaster Deluxe 73?

The Telecaster Deluxe 73 comes in a variety of finishes, including Antigua, Black, Blonde, Natural, Sunburst, Walnut (Mocha), White, and Wine, allowing players to choose a style that suits their aesthetic preference.

Does the Telecaster Deluxe 73 have a string-through body design?

Yes, the Telecaster Deluxe 73 features a string-through body design, which contributes to its sustain and resonance, making it a popular choice for players who value tonal clarity and projection.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe | Norman's Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Carter Vintage Guitars - J.D. Simo - 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe by Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars - J.D. Simo - 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe by GregsGuitars

1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe (mocca), Part1 by GregsGuitars

1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe (mocca), Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Telecaster Deluxe 73.

Build quality

  • The 1973 Telecaster Deluxe features a "notchless" design, meaning less pronounced notches where the upper bout meets the neck.

    Source
  • The finish might be a factory custom color, done with original methods, yet it's not listed as an official custom color from that era, making its authenticity debatable.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Owners appreciate the original electronics, which contribute to its unique vintage sound.

    Source
  • The 1973 Telecaster Deluxe uses unique Seth Lover designed Wide Range Humbuckers with CuNiFe magnets, larger than standard humbuckers, paired with 1 meg pots for distinct vintage tone.

    Source

User experience

  • The guitar's natural relic and wear are seen as adding charm and character, making it feel storied and authentic.

    Source
  • Owners note that Fender's CBS era guitars had QC issues, like the 3-bolt neck design, but the WRHB pickups were a standout feature from this period.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Described as having a "huge and heavy" sound, this guitar is ideal for players seeking a bold tonal presence.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The new frets on old models significantly enhance playability, offering a smooth playing experience despite the guitar's age.

    Source
  • The output jack is half original, often replaced with a Japanese plate to prevent the original style from pulling out.

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  • A user reported resolving setup and intonation issues with a refret and finish redo, significantly enhancing playability.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest replacing non-original tuners with vintage Schaller-style tuners for authenticity.

    Source
  • Several users suggest considering the G&L ASAT Deluxe as a budget-friendly alternative to the Telecaster Deluxe with a similar aesthetic and playability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Modern Fender reissues use 250k pots, unlike the original 1M pots, leading to a noticeably different and muddier sound.

    Source
  • The Squier Deluxe, purchased 10 years ago, features Fender badged Wide Range pickups, offering a viable alternative to the original Telecaster Deluxe.

    Source

Critic Reviews

1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe Electric Guitar

jakewildwood.blogspot.com

summary text The 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe impresses with its vintage charm and distinct wide range humbuckers that deliver a unique sound reminiscent of '50s sci-fi. Though the pole spacing could be better, the guitar plays remarkably well after a professional refret and setup. Its Strat-style neck enhances its rock appeal, making barred chords a joy. While the refinished body and minor control pot issues mark its history, its classic build and upgraded performance ensure it remains a timeless piece for enthusiasts.

positive

CRAVE Guitars Feature – 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe

craveguitars.co.uk

The 1973 Fender Telecaster Deluxe is a unique take on the classic Telecaster, offering a blend of vintage charm and versatile tones. Praised for its fantastic looks, rare finish, and iconic Seth Lover humbucking pickups, this guitar delivers a smooth, powerful sound that stands apart from standard Telecasters. However, it bears some divisive CBS-era design quirks, including a Stratocaster neck and a less desirable 3-bolt joint. Despite these drawbacks, the Deluxe is celebrated for its originality and collectability, making it a standout choice for those seeking a remarkable vintage experience.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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john_amarantidis

Tele Deluxe 73

I love this guitar. An all original Telecaster Deluxe from 1973. Gorgeous guitar

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