If you’re thinking about getting the Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster and you’re not sure if it’s a good idea or not, don’t worry – you’ve come to the right place! In today’s in-depth review, I’m going to take a very close look on that high-end Strat. This is a truly iconic model, but is it actually worth it?
The truth is that Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster is an absolutely amazing guitar. This is a perfect axe for any lover of that legendary guitarist. Although it’s expensive, it sounds, looks and feels exceptional.
Let’s dive deeper with research to find out what exactly makes this signature Strat so good and so popular. Firstly, we’ll have a look at the specifications and pricing of that guitar. Additionally, we’ll investigate the main pros and cons of that model. Of course, there will be a few sound demos included as well!
Specs & Pricing
Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster is a signature guitar of one of the most legendary guitarists of all time. This is the famous Blackie – the model recognizable all around the world. In fact, it’s one of the most popular guitars from Fender’s Artist Series!
What makes it so special? Well, the guitar features a solid alder body, a comfortable V-shaped maple neck and easy-playing maple neck which guarantees an enjoyable playing experience. The guitar also has a blocked vintage-style synchronized tremolo. What’s more, it comes with an additional vintage tweed case.
Fender decided to equip this guitar with a set of high quality pickups – 3 Vintage Noiseless Strat single-coils. These pickups give you access to a very wide range of different tones. The versatility of that axe is absolutely amazing!
It is also worth mentioning that this signature Strat is available in a few different color versions: Black, Olympic White, Pewter and Torino Red. As a result, anyone will be able to find the model that suits their personal preferences!
When it comes to pricing, just like any other guitar from the Artist Series – it’s not that cheap. However, if you’re a huge fan of Eric Clapton, it doesn’t really matter. Playing on the same guitar as your favorite artist is worth it!
Here’s the sound demo – feel free to check it out below.
Unique Midrange Boost
What’s interesting, the Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster has a very useful and interesting feature. It has an active 25dB midrange boost and TBX circuitry on one tone control.
What does that mean? Well, it allows you to boost your midrange tones with a quick spin of a tone knob. This is a very functional thing, especially during live performances. You can significantly add some spice to your sound in a matter of seconds!
Additionally, the second tone knob in that Strat works as the standard Fender TBX master tone control. As a result, you can quickly swap between bright and dark tones.
Who Is It For?
Fender Eric Clapton Signature Stratocaster is suitable for guitarists of all levels. It doesn’t really matter whether you’re a beginner or a bit more advanced player – you will definitely appreciate the uniqueness of that model.
However, since it’s a high-end guitar, it’s mainly used by intermediate and professional guitar players. They are the ones who can use the full potential of that unique Strat.
All Stratocasters are really versatile, but this particular model is even more versatile thanks to the additional features such as midrange boost or TBX circuity. You can play any kind of music on that axe – from blues and jazz to rock and grunge.
Overall, I’m positive that the vast majority of guitar players will be totally in love with that guitar. There’s just not much to complain about! It’s a beautiful and great sounding instrument. Isn’t it all that really matters in the end?
Here’s an another sound demo.
Pros & Cons
I created a short list of the biggest pros and cons of Eric Clapton Stratocaster. As you can see, there’s nothing to be worried about – the high price will most likely be your biggest concern. Apart from that, there’s nothing to be worried about – no factory flaws whatsoever.
Pros
- Amazing Tone
- Comfortable Neck
- Beautiful Finish
- Vintage Tweed Case Included
- Extermely Versatile
Cons
- High Price
Cheaper Alternatives
If you can’t afford getting this signature Eric Clapton Strat or you have a feeling that this guitar won’t be the right fit for you, that’s not a problem! There’s still quite a lot of other fantastic Stratocasters out there. Of course, it all depends on your own personal preferences and the size of your budget.
Here’s a few other Strats that are also worth checking out.
Firstly, you should definitely check out the Fender Road Worn Stratocaster. There are two different versions of that Strat – ’50s and ’60s. And the truth is that both of them are equally amazing! They are perfect for all lovers of vintage gear and they’re way more affordable than the Eric Clapton Strat.
Alternatively, you can also consider getting the Fender Player Stratocaster HSS. This is an affordable and great sounding Mexican-made Strat suitable for the most demanding musicians. Unlike the Strat from today’s article, it has a humbucker on the bridge position. That opens a lot of tonal possibilities and gives you a bit of extra punch.
Additionally, you can also check out the Squier 40th Anniversary Stratocaster. I had the pleasure to use that axe on several occasions and it made a really good impression on me. It may not be as good as high-end Fenders, but it sounds pretty good and it looks even better! Surely, it’s a great option for guitarists with a tight budget.
Want to learn more about Fender?
If you want to find out more about the guitars made by this legendary manufacturer, make sure to visit the official website of Fender.
Summary
As you can see, Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster is an absolutely amazing electric guitar. Of course, some players may complain about the high price of that model, but the truth is that it’s definitely worth it. I think that if you’re a huge fan of Clapton’s music, the price doesn’t even matter that much.
What do you think of that Strat? Would you get it for yourself or do you think that it’s overrated and overpriced? Leave a comment down below and let me know what you think, I’m really interested to hear your thoughts!
Thanks for checking out today’s review, hopefully it was helpful. If you enjoyed this post and you’re looking for more gear recommendations, you may also like:
