While the Fender Custom Shop is primarily known for creating vintage-styled reissues, it also excels at modernized takes on classic guitars.  Over the years, the Custom Deluxe line is where this is showcased best.  Each year, the model specs changed slightly, but always with the goal of creating a clean, non-vintage showcase of where Fender could go.  Here we have a 2012-spec Fender Custom Shop Custom Deluxe Stratocaster in Candy Red that is simply outstanding.

Right off the bat, you'll notice the beautiful Cand Red finish - it's over a swamp ash body topped with a AA quilt maple top.  You don't see this often on Strats, but it's spectacular.  The grain isn't overstated - this has just the right touch of organic class.  Also, this combination of woods results in a brighter, snappy tone than normally found on a Strat.  It has a great jingle, and will cut through the mix when overdriven, without getting muddy.  The neck is also a standout feature - you're looking a beautiful AA flame maple.  The profile is a Large C - so while it's not huge, this definitely isn't a super skinny neck.  Fans of mid-60's Strat that prefer a vintage grip will dig it.  It's a "full" feel, without seeming bloated or hard to manage.  It's easy to play, with nicely rolled fingerboard edges.  And, with 22 medium jumbo frets and a 9.5" radius, you can bend to your heart's content without the fear of fretting out.

As gorgeous as this guitar is, and as great as it feels, perhaps the real star of the show is how it sounds.  Any Custom Shop Strat will have great tone - but this one takes it a bit further, with a set of Abby Handwound Fat 50's.  Yes, they are wound by the legendary Abigail Ybarra - the longtime veteran that started winding pickups in the Leo Fender days and carried on until retiring just last decade.   She did a great great job on these - they are touch sensitive and crystal clear.  Fat 50's take the classic original design from the earlier Strats and add a modern touch with more output and a solid bass response.  Abby pickups are in high demand - to have a Strat with her work in it is something special.

Other features include abalone dots, a modern 2-point tremolo with block saddles, and Sperzel tuners.  This Custom Deluxe Strat really has it all, and the Custom Shop nailed the build.

Included with the guitar are the original hardshell case and certificate of authenticity.  This one is in excellent condition - the previous owner barely played it, and took great care of the guitar.  It's super clean.  Setup to play perfectly by the techs in our shop, it's ready to go.

Serial # 9008 (XN9008)