This limited-edition natural ash American Performer Stratocaster is one of a 2019 limited run of 100 units. The solid ash body gives this Stratocaster a little extra push in the mids, making for even more sparkle and punch.

The Yosemite pickups have flat-staggered pole pieces. The pickups are shellac potted, a nod to classic Fender design in the 50s and 60s. Shellac cuts down on microphonic feedback without muffling the tone in the way wax potting does. The Yosemite pickups sound sweet and full and are very touch responsive.

The electronics feature a Greasebucket circuit, which allows for volume drops without a loss of treble. A push-pull pot on the bridge tone control adds the neck pickup in series into positions 1 and 2.

The modern C maple neck has a 9.5” fretboard radius, 22 jumbo frets, a synthetic 1 11/16” nut and vintage style tuners.

These Stratocasters left Fender with flimsy gig bags, but a previous owner sprang for a nice hard-shell case, in which I will ship the guitar. The case smells of vanilla musk. It’s not a bad smell, but it’s pretty strong. I only mention it because if you’re sensitive to odors, as I am, you’ll want to air out the case for a bit. I’m sure a previous owner wanted to capture that Gibson nitrocellulose smell, but he missed the mark.0

The guitar is in terrific condition. Check out that tasty wood grain! I tried to get a couple shots of the ash grain on the sides, where it shows to best effect. The clear coat is fresh and glossy, and I do no find any significant marks. The neck pocket is looking great, without the usual Fender cracks. The frets show only the slightest bit of ghosting, and a fret eraser would probably eliminate and signs of use.

In fact, I see no substantial wear anywhere but the pickguard, which is looking pretty distressed. It’s hard to photograph, but the guard looks like a satin finish everywhere but under the strings, which maintains the original gloss. I like a guitar that looks well loved, so if I were keeping this for myself, the pickguard would stay. If you like a newer looking guard, it’s a pretty affordable swap.