2002 Fender Stratocaster American Standard "Metallic Blue" + OHSC

2002 Fender Stratocaster American Standard 
Unique "Metallic Blue" Finish + Maple Fretboard/Neck
Made in USA (Corona Factory, California)
All Original, No Modifications 

Adult owned only. Children-free, pet-free, smoke-free household.
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Up for sale is a very nice looking 2002 Fender Stratocaster American Standard in a unique "Metallic Blue" colorway.

From personal experience, the Fender American Standard series made during the 1990's - early 2000's have been one of the best quality Fender guitars I've played. This Stratocaster is no exception. The build quality is excellent, the pickup quality is superb and the wood quality and finish is very well done.

This guitar is all factory original with no modifications or alterations. 

This Metallic Blue is a very unique type of blue color that I've never seen on any Fender guitar. I've seen Lake Placid Blue... Solid Blue... Sapphire Blue.. and many other hues of blues. But not this specific metallic blue. It's almost like a Goldtop type of finish.. as in you can see the metallic flakes when looking closely at the guitar. It looks very nice from far away and also when looking it up close.

This Stratocaster is in overall very good condition. Has been played but only indoors and never gigged or played outside. Some minor surface dings, scratches, marks from normal home play. Some surface scratches on body/back/pickguard area from playing with a pick. Some very minor zipper rash on back of the body - difficult to see in pictures unless looking very closely. Some minor small mark on side of headstock from being on a stand. Nothing that affects playability - simply visual. NO HEADSTOCK CRACK.

Very nice maple neck and fretboard. Super smooth feeling all across the board starting from top to bottom. The maple neck blends in very nicely with metallic blue finish. I honestly prefer this look combination over a rosewood fretboard. Standard Stratocaster 3 knobs (Volume/Tone/Tone). Standard American Fender tuning pegs (high quality). Standard 5 way selector switch and vintage style "spagetti" Fender logo on headstock. 

SUPER COMFORTABLE Modern C-shaped neck profile. Honestly the Fender Modern C shape neck is one of the most diverse and well rounded necks of all time. You can literally play any type of music genre with this neck... not too big and not too thin. Just right in the middle - perfect for all hand sizes. You can play rock, blues, jazz, punk, country with this neck - no problem. Great for standard chord grips and also single note play for lead guitarists.

However, the highlight of the guitar is most definitely these American Standard Pickups. No need to change them for anything else unless you really want to. Bridge + Neck pickups are my favorite. Pair it with any quality tube amp and that's all you really need. I play it through a Fender Princeton Reverb with no additional pedals. Sounds great raw and natural... just this Stratocaster + an amp.

Overall, this is just a very high quality and well made USA Fender Stratocaster. The American Standard series is one of the best guitar model that Fender has released in their lineup. It doesn't make a huge dent in your wallet like the Fender Custom Artist series but still doesn't compromise on tone or build quality.

Plus this "Metallic Blue" finish makes the Strat a little bit more unique than the rest. Just not a color you see everyday... especially with a maple neck.

Comes with:
- 2002 Fender Stratocaster American Standard "Metallic Blue"
- Original Fender Hardshell Molded Case
- Original Fender whammy bar (2 types will be included - short/long)

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Payment must be completed 24 hours upon purchase.

Mandatory signature confirmation delivery.

❤️ Will be shipped with love and care :) ❤️

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The Fender Stratocaster with a maple neck is a classic choice for guitarists, offering a combination of iconic design, bright tone, and smooth playability. The maple neck has been a staple of Fender guitars since the Stratocaster's introduction in 1954 and remains a popular option for players seeking a crisp, articulate sound and a timeless look.

Key Features of a Fender Stratocaster with a Maple Neck

1. Neck Material and Construction

• Material: Maple is a dense, hard wood known for its bright tonal characteristics and smooth, fast-playing surface. It provides a snappy attack with clear highs and a balanced low end.
• Fretboard: Some Fender Stratocasters feature a one-piece maple neck, where the fretboard is integrated into the neck itself. Others have a separate maple fretboard glued to the neck, offering similar tonal qualities but with subtle differences in feel.
• Finish: Maple necks often come with a gloss or satin finish. A gloss finish gives a shiny, vintage look and feel, while a satin finish provides a smoother, less sticky feel for faster playing.

2. Tone

• Bright and Articulate: Maple necks are known for their bright, articulate tone. This makes them ideal for genres where clarity and note definition are important, such as funk, rock, and pop.
• Snappy Response: The stiffness of maple contributes to a snappy attack and quick response, making it a favorite for players who enjoy crisp, percussive playing styles.
• Sustain: Maple’s density also enhances the guitar’s sustain, adding to its overall tonal richness.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

• Classic Look: A maple neck gives the Stratocaster a classic, vintage aesthetic, particularly when paired with finishes like Sunburst, Olympic White, or Black. The light color of the maple contrasts beautifully with darker body finishes.
• Inlays: Maple necks typically feature black dot inlays, adding to the vintage-inspired design.

4. Playability

• Smooth Surface: The natural hardness of maple provides a smooth playing surface, which many players find comfortable for both rhythm and lead playing.
• Durability: Maple necks are highly durable and resistant to wear, making them a reliable choice for players who gig or practice frequently.
• Neck Profiles: Fender offers various neck profiles for Stratocasters with maple necks, including:
  • Modern "C" Shape: Comfortable and versatile, suitable for most playing styles.
  • Soft "V" Shape: Ideal for players who like a slightly thicker neck for a vintage feel.
  • Deep "C" Shape: A fuller profile for players who prefer a more substantial neck.

5. Models Featuring Maple Necks

Fender offers a wide range of Stratocaster models with maple necks, catering to players of all skill levels and budgets. Popular models include:

• Fender American Professional II Stratocaster: Combines modern features with vintage-inspired design, including a maple neck with a satin finish.
• Fender Player Stratocaster: A more affordable option with classic styling and a bright, snappy tone.
• Fender American Vintage II Series: Recreates the feel and sound of classic Stratocasters from the '50s, '60s, and '70s, often featuring maple necks.
• Fender Custom Shop Stratocasters: High-end, custom-built guitars that frequently include maple neck options.
• Fender Ultra Stratocaster: A modern take with advanced features, such as a compound-radius maple fretboard for enhanced playability.

6. Famous Players Who Use Maple-Neck Stratocasters

• Jimi Hendrix: While Hendrix famously flipped a left-handed Stratocaster to play right-handed, many of his guitars featured maple necks, contributing to his bright, cutting tone.
• Eric Clapton: Known for his smooth blues playing, Clapton often uses maple-neck Stratocasters for their clarity and sustain.
• Jeff Beck: Beck's innovative playing style benefits from the articulation and brightness of a maple neck.
• Mark Knopfler: His clean, fingerstyle technique pairs well with the sharp attack of a maple-neck Strat.

Why Choose a Fender Stratocaster with a Maple Neck?

1. Bright, Clear Tone: Ideal for players who want a crisp, articulate sound that cuts through the mix.
2. Classic Look: The maple neck gives the Stratocaster a vintage-inspired aesthetic that’s instantly recognizable.
3. Durability: Maple is a tough, reliable wood that holds up well to heavy use.
4. Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of genres, from rock and blues to funk and pop.
5. Comfortable Playability: Smooth and fast, with various neck profiles to suit different playing styles.

Conclusion

A Fender Stratocaster with a maple neck is a timeless choice for guitarists who value clarity, brightness, and classic styling. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first quality instrument or a seasoned player seeking a reliable workhorse, the maple-neck Stratocaster offers exceptional tone, durability, and playability. With a range of models and finishes to choose from, there’s a maple-neck Stratocaster to suit every player’s needs and preferences.