Fender Stratocaster: Same as it ever was.

With the Stratocaster, Leo Fender and his crew created a loyal following of musicians who insist on playing Fender instruments. Interestingly, the Fender Stratocaster
was the first Fender guitar model to use plastic knobs and pickup covers.

With 21 frets, the Strat features a double cutaway design that makes access to upper registers easier.

Check out this Strat: Stevie Ray Vaughan Lenny Stratocaster. Is that awesome, or what?

Among the innovations the Fender crew incorporated into the Stratocaster were the “tremolo” bridge, which when pushing or pulling on the “whammy bar” changes the pitch of the strings by tightening or loosening them. This was originally intended to achieve a pedal steel-like sound.

Another innovation was its third single-coil pickup. With this the Fender Stratocaster offered more tonal possibilities.

The Stratocaster debuted in 1954. Many of its design inventiveness came about due to feedback from professional musicians, as well as Leo Fender and the Fender staff.

A 1954 Fender Stratocaster in great condition with all original parts and paint job can command prices upwards of $40,000.

Fender Stratocaster Tremolo Bridge and Whammy Bar

Fender Stratocaster Knobs and Pickup Switch