The Telecaster is one of the world's most iconic electric guitars and, as such, there's a huge choice within the range.
From Strats and Teles, to Precision basses, Jazzmasters and beyond,Guitar World explore the differences in sound between Squier and Fender, the build quality and feel you get for your money, as well as the history of the two brands. Let's dive straight in with some history.
The Fender Telecaster was the very first mass-produced solid body electric guitar and has a widespread appeal that is only rivaled by a few other guitars.(Guitarworld)
The Fender Tele has graced recordings from rock 'n' roll trailblazers including Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones, right the way through to Danny Gatton and James Burton. Few other guitars have become so deeply ingrained in music history. Even modern guitar masters like Slipknot and Radiohead are riding the Tele train. What this means is that you'll be in good company if you decide to invest in one of the best Telecasters in this guide.
Below: Fender Player Telecaster
A great value option for those who want the Fender name - Price: $749/£649 | Body: Alder | Neck: Maple | Scale: 25.5" | Fingerboard: Maple, Pau Ferro (only on 3CB & Polar White SS) | Frets: 22 | Pickups: 2x Player
Whether you're a beginner electric guitar player or die-hard Fender fan, below you'll find some very tempting options in the Telecaster stable.
Below: Fender Squier Classic Vibe '70s Telecaster Thinline - Price: $449/£329 | Body: Soft Maple | Neck: Maple (C-shape) | Scale: 25.5" | Fingerboard: Maple | Frets: 21 | Pickups: Two Fender Wide Range Humbucking
Best Telecaster guitar starts with the Fender American Professional II Telecaster, a seriously beautiful and versatile guitar that pays homage to the originals while bringing them right up to date.
If you’re currently shopping for a top-level American-made Telecaster, the American Professional II’s are certainly worth a look. Unlike some of the other options out there, these guitars pay tribute to the original models, with only a handful of modernisations and updates that aren’t detectable to the eye.
Below Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Price: $229/£219 | Body: Alder | Neck: Maple (C-shape) | Scale: 25.5" | Fingerboard: Indian Laurel | Frets: 22 | Pickups: Two Vintage-Style Single-Coils
To Watch the other 7 Fender Tele click HERE
Recently Chrissie Hynde launches her own Fender guitar. The Pretenders frontwoman’s team-up with the US instruments manufacturer, which was announced yesterday (February 2), pays homage to the Ice Blue Metallic Telecaster she purchased in New York City nearly 40 years ago.
Since the release of the band’s self-titled debut album (1980), Hynde has played the guitar on many subsequent studio records and live tours. (NME)
Fender’s new Chrissie Hynde Telecaster, released as part of the company’s Artist Signature Series, allows fans worldwide to embody the axe-playing prowess of The Pretenders’ leader for the very first time.
“My guitar tech, David Crubly, convinced me to launch a Fender Signature Telecaster by telling me it might encourage more people to get into bands and music,” explained Hynde. “I hope that’s true and know that those who do, won’t look back.”
According to an official description, the guitar “serves the unmistakable look and feel of Hynde’s treasured ’65 Telecaster model”. The new instrument features an alder body in Faded Ice Blue Metallic Road Worn lacquer finish, vintage-style ’50s single-coil Tele pickups voiced to match Hunde’s original set as well as a 6-stainless steel barrel saddle bridge.
FIVE DECADES OF HITS CAN’T BE WRONG
You have to be a storytelling savant to land innumerable singles on various charts around the world, with classics such as Brass in Pocket (1979), Don’t Get Me Wrong (‘86), I’ll Stand By You (‘94), Boots of Chinese Plastic (2008)and Holy Commotion! (‘16) representing Hynde’s songwriting success in each of five different decade
Justin Norvell, EVP Fender Products, said it was “a true honour” to bring the singer’s “legendary” guitar to life, adding: “Chrissie really wanted this model to be as faithful as possible to its original.”
You can watch an official demonstration video above and find further information at Fender’s official website.
