Unless you’ve lived in a box for the past 15 years, you know that Fender has had no shortage of Artist-inspired instruments. One of their oldest offerings is still one of their best, the Eric Clapton model Stratocaster. Though it’s had a few refinements over the years, its versatility and quality remain extremely high.

Chances are, you in all likelihood already know the features of a regular “non-Artist” Stratocaster, so you’re likely wondering what makes the Clapton Stratocaster distinct. Let’s look at the particulars, briefly.

To start, there’s the electronics. Throughout his broad career, Eric Clapton has used a variety of instruments, including a Gibson Les Paul, a Gibson SG, a Gibson ES-335, and, of course, a Fender Stratocaster. So it goes without saying that Slowhand needs an instrument that can cover a lot of sonic territory.

The Clapton Strat obliges. To begin, it has an active 25db mid-boost (battery powered by 9V), which can take the Strat into pseudo Les Paul territory.

The mid-boost adds enough versatility, but that’s not all the Clapton Strat offers. You’ve also got quality Fender Noiseless pickups and a master TBX tone control. The Clapton Stratocaster might just be the most versatile instrument you ever play. Seriously.

The sounds are only part of the picture, though. The playability is top rate as well, owing in no little part to the V-shaped neck with 9.5″ radius. The neck is unbelievably smooth and notes fret and bend with ease. It truly is one of the most comfortable necks we’ve ever seen.

We have to be forthright and say that this guitar is also one of the best playing guitars we’ve ever encountered. It’s really that good.

That’s not to say we wouldn’t have some suggestions should Mr. Clapton ask our thoughts. While the vintage-style tuners add an air of old-school charm to the model, we think that locking tuners would be a more proper choice for such a advanced instrument.

We also wish that the vibrato unit wasn’t blocked. However, that’s Clapton’s preference, so we don’t think it’ll change any time soon.

Aside from these minor suggestions, we think the Eric Clapton model Stratocaster represents the best of Fender’s current offerings. We recommend it without reservation.

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