Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck Stratocasters UpdatedNew Models Offer Players Current Specifications
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Eric Clapton Signature Model
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Jeff Beck Signature Model
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July 22, 2001Two of Fender’s most popular and prominent artist model guitars, the Eric Clapton Signature Model Stratocaster and the Jeff Beck Signature Model Stratocaster, will receive updates to reflect changes that each artist has recently made to his own personal guitar. The updated versions will be introduced this summer at the Nashville NAMM show.
"Both Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck are true artists in the sense that throughout their respective careers, they’ve both experimented with gear and let their personal sounds evolve," says Richard McDonald, vice president of electric guitars at Fender. "The most recent modifications that they’ve each made to their guitars are accurately reflected in our updated Signature models."
Adds McDonald, "These guitars are two of the most versitile instruments that we make. Whether you’re a fan of Clapton or Beck - even if you’re simply a Strat lover - these guitars are amazing."
For the Eric Clapton Signature Model Stratocaster, three Vintage Noiseless pickups have replaced the Gold Lace Sensors found on the previous model. Combined with the powerful active mid boost (+25db) and TBX circuits preferred by Eric Clapton, the new pickup configuration makes this updated model one of the most tonefully versatile instruments Fender has to offer.
The body wood on the Eric Clapton Signature Model is alder, and it features a maple V-shaped neck with 22 frets and a 9.5" radius. The bridge is a blocked original vintage synchronized tremolo, also the choice of Clapton.
Available colors for the Eric Clapton Signature Model Stratocaster are Olympic White, Black, Pewter or Torino Red. US MSRP is $1,799.99.
The latest updates to the Jeff Beck Signature Model Stratocaster also include a change in pickups. In place of the previous configuration of Gold Lace Sensors, the new Signature model feature three Special Design Ceramic Vintage Noiseless pickups.
The neck shape has also been changed to reflect Beck’s preference, which is a softer C shape than its predecessor, and a maple neck in place of rosewood. The heel of the neck joint has also been contoured on this update to allow easier access to the higher frets.
The body wood on the Jeff Beck Signature Model is alder. The maple neck is 9.5" in radius and features an LSR roller nut and locking tuners, and the bridge is an American Series two-point tremolo.
Available colors include Olympic White and Surf Green. US MSRP is $1,799.99. For more information, visit their web site at www.fender.com. | 
