If you’re a guitar enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of Fender guitars. Fender is a well-known brand that has been around for decades, producing high-quality electric guitars that have been used by some of the most famous musicians in the world.
But have you ever wondered where Fender guitars are made? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the manufacturing facilities where Fender guitars are produced, the different types of Fender guitars available, and the history of this iconic brand.
Fender was founded in 1946 by Clarence Leonidas “Leo” Fender in Fullerton, California. Since then, the company has established itself as one of the leading manufacturers of electric guitars in the world. Fender guitars are known for their high-quality construction, excellent tone, and iconic designs.
They have been used by some of the most famous musicians in the world, including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Buddy Holly. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Fender guitars, the manufacturing facilities where they are produced, and the different types of guitars available.
Key Takeaways
- Fender guitars are produced in several manufacturing facilities around the world, including the United States, Mexico, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, and China.
- Fender offers a wide range of guitar series, including the Performer, Professional, Original, and Ultra series, as well as the Vintera, Player, and Artist series.
- Fender guitars are known for their high-quality construction, excellent tone, and iconic designs, and have been used by some of the most famous musicians in the world.
History of Fender Guitars
Fender is one of the most iconic guitar brands in the world. The company was founded by Leo Fender in Fullerton, California in 1946. Leo Fender was a self-taught electronics engineer who was passionate about music and guitars.
He started repairing radios and amplifiers in his small shop, but soon he became interested in building his own guitars.
In 1950, Fender introduced its first solid-body electric guitar, the Telecaster. The Telecaster was an instant hit, and it quickly became one of the most popular guitars in the world.
The Telecaster was followed by the Stratocaster, which was introduced in 1954. The Stratocaster became even more popular than the Telecaster, and it has been used by countless musicians over the years.
In 1965, CBS acquired Fender, and Leo Fender left the company. Under CBS ownership, Fender continued to produce guitars, but the quality of the instruments declined. In 1985, a group of investors led by Bill Schultz bought Fender from CBS.
Schultz and his team worked hard to improve the quality of Fender guitars, and they introduced new models like the American Standard Stratocaster and the American Standard Telecaster.
In 2002, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation was founded. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation is the current owner of the Fender brand, and it is one of the largest guitar manufacturers in the world.
The company produces a wide range of guitars, including the Stratocaster, the Telecaster, the Jazzmaster, and the Jaguar.
Today, Fender guitars are made in several countries, including the United States, Mexico, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, and China. Fender’s American-made guitars are considered to be some of the best guitars in the world, but the company also produces high-quality guitars in its factories in Mexico and Japan.
Fender’s entry-level guitars are made in Indonesia and China, but they are still built to high standards and offer excellent value for money.
Fender Guitars Manufacturing Facilities
Fender is a renowned guitar manufacturer that produces high-quality guitars worldwide. The company has several manufacturing facilities located in different parts of the world. In this section, we will discuss the different Fender Guitar manufacturing facilities.
Corona, California
Fender’s flagship US factory is located in Corona, California. This is where the Fender Custom Shop is located. The factory produces high-end guitars for professional musicians and collectors. Fender has been manufacturing guitars in Corona, California since 1985.
Ensenada, Mexico
Fender also has a manufacturing facility in Ensenada, Mexico. This facility produces guitars for the mid-range market. The Ensenada factory produces Fender Standard, Deluxe, and Classic Series guitars. These guitars are known for their quality and affordability.
Japan
Fender has a manufacturing facility in Japan that produces high-end guitars for the Japanese market. The Japanese-made Fender guitars are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The Fender Japan factory produces guitars for the Fender Japan, Squier, and Gretsch brands.
China
Fender has two manufacturing facilities in China. The first facility is located in Zhangzhou, China, and is operated by the Yako Musical Instruments Company. This facility produces Fender Squier guitars under an original equipment manufacturing contract.
The second facility is operated by the Cort Guitars Company and is located in Guangzhou, China. The Cort factory produces Fender acoustic guitars.
Indonesia
Fender has a manufacturing facility in Indonesia that produces guitars for the mid-range market. The Indonesian factory produces Fender Standard and Deluxe Series guitars. These guitars are known for their quality and affordability.
Korea
Fender has a manufacturing facility in Korea that produces guitars for the mid-range market. The Korean factory produces Fender Standard and Deluxe Series guitars. These guitars are known for their quality and affordabilit
Types of Fender Guitars
Fender has a wide range of guitars that cater to different styles of playing. In this section, we will discuss the different types of Fender guitars available in the market.
Electric Guitars
Fender is renowned for its electric guitars, which are used by musicians across various genres. The most popular electric guitars made by Fender are the Stratocaster, Jazzmaster, and Telecaster. These guitars have become iconic due to their unique sound and design.
The Stratocaster is a solid-body electric guitar that is known for its versatility. It has three single-coil pickups that produce a bright and clear sound. The Jazzmaster is another solid-body electric guitar that has a warmer tone. It is often used in jazz and alternative rock music.
The Telecaster, on the other hand, has a twangy sound that is popular in country music.
Acoustic Guitars
Fender also produces acoustic guitars that are popular among guitarists. The most popular acoustic guitar made by Fender is the dreadnought. This guitar has a large body that produces a loud and full sound. It is often used in folk and country music.
Bass Guitars
Fender is also known for its bass guitars, which are used by bassists across various genres. The most popular bass guitars made by Fender are the Precision Bass and Jazz Bass. The Precision Bass has a solid-body design and produces a punchy and defined sound. The Jazz Bass, on the other hand, has a brighter sound and is often used in jazz and funk music.
Fender also produces semi-hollow body and hollow body bass guitars that have a warmer and more delicate sound.
In addition to these guitars, Fender also produces Squier guitars, which are more affordable versions of their main guitars. Squier guitars are made in Asia and are available in various models, including Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Jazz Bass.
Fender Guitar Series
If you’re a guitar enthusiast, you’re probably familiar with Fender, one of the most popular guitar brands around. Fender offers a wide range of guitar series, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Here are some of the most popular Fender guitar series:
American Professional
The American Professional series is a premium line of guitars made in the USA. These guitars are designed for professional musicians and serious amateurs who demand the highest quality and performance. The American Professional series includes Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and Precision Bass models.
These guitars feature modern updates to classic designs, such as V-Mod pickups, deep C neck profiles, and narrow-tall frets.
Player
The Player series is a more affordable line of guitars made in Mexico. These guitars are designed for players of all levels who want a high-quality instrument at a reasonable price. The Player series includes Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and Precision Bass models.
These guitars feature classic designs with modern updates, such as Alnico pickups, modern C neck profiles, and medium jumbo frets.
Custom Shop
The Fender Custom Shop is a division of Fender that produces custom-built guitars to order. These guitars are made by master craftsmen using the finest materials and techniques. The Custom Shop offers a wide range of models, including Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and Precision Bass models.
These guitars are highly sought after by collectors and musicians who demand the best of the best.
American Performer
The American Performer series is a line of guitars made in the USA. These guitars are designed for players who want a high-quality instrument at an affordable price. The American Performer series includes Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and Precision Bass models.
These guitars feature classic designs with modern updates, such as Yosemite pickups, jumbo frets, and Greasebucket tone circuits.
Ultra
The Ultra series is a premium line of guitars made in the USA. These guitars are designed for players who demand the ultimate in performance and versatility. The Ultra series includes Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, and Precision Bass models.
.These guitars feature modern designs with advanced features, such as Ultra Noiseless pickups, compound radius fingerboards, and tapered neck heels.
Vintera
The Vintera series is a line of guitars made in Mexico. These guitars are designed for players who want vintage-style instruments with modern features. The Vintera series includes Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and Precision Bass models.
These guitars feature vintage-style designs with modern updates, such as vintage-style pickups, mid-60s C neck profiles, and vintage-style hardware.
Deluxe
The Deluxe series is a line of guitars made in Japan. These guitars are designed for players who want high-quality instruments with unique features. The Deluxe series includes Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, and Precision Bass models.
These guitars feature unique designs with advanced features, such as Noiseless pickups, S-1 switching, and compound radius fingerboards.
American Original
The American Original series is a line of guitars made in the USA. These guitars are designed for players who want vintage-style instruments with modern updates. The American Original series includes Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and Precision Bass models.
These guitars feature vintage-style designs with modern updates, such as Pure Vintage pickups, thick C neck profiles, and modern hardware.
Materials and Build Quality
When it comes to Fender guitars, the materials used and the build quality are two of the most important factors that determine their sound and durability. Fender uses a variety of materials to make their guitars, including ash, alder, maple, rosewood, ebony, and mahogany. Each of these materials has its own unique properties that affect the sound and feel of the guitar.
One of the most important materials used in Fender guitars is ash. Ash is a popular choice for guitar bodies because it is lightweight and has a bright, resonant tone. Fender also uses alder for some of their guitars, which has a similar tone to ash but is slightly heavier.
Maple is another popular choice for guitar bodies, especially for necks, because it is hard and dense, which helps to improve sustain and clarity.
Mahogany is another popular wood used in guitar bodies, especially for heavier styles of music like metal and hard rock. Mahogany has a warm, rich tone and is known for its sustain and resonance.
Ebony and rosewood are often used for fretboards because they are hard and dense, which makes them durable and resistant to wear and tear.
In terms of build quality, Fender is known for producing high-quality guitars that are built to last. Fender guitars are built with precision and attention to detail, which ensures that they play and sound great. Frets are carefully installed and leveled to ensure that they are even and smooth across the entire fretboard, which makes it easier to play and reduces string buzz.
Artists and Fender Guitars
Fender guitars have been played by some of the most iconic artists in music history. From Stevie Ray Vaughan to Eric Clapton, Fender has been the go-to choice for many legendary musicians.
Stevie Ray Vaughan, known for his soulful blues guitar playing, was a devoted Fender player. He favored the Fender Stratocaster and could often be seen playing his beloved “Number One” guitar, a 1963 Stratocaster. Vaughan’s signature sound was heavily influenced by his use of Fender amps and guitars.
Eric Clapton, another guitar legend, has also been a longtime Fender player. Clapton’s famous “Blackie” guitar, a hybrid of three different Fender Stratocasters, was his go-to instrument for many years. He has also played Fender Telecasters and Jaguars throughout his career.
Fender has also collaborated with many contemporary artists to create signature guitars and gear. The Fender Artist Series includes instruments designed in partnership with musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Johnson, and John Mayer, among others.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, Fender guitars offer a wide range of options for players of all levels. From classic models like the Stratocaster and Telecaster to more modern designs like the Acoustasonic and American Ultra, Fender has something for everyone.
Fender Guitar Culture and Influence
Fender guitars have been a staple in the music industry since the 1950s. They have been used in various genres of music, from rock to western swing to blues. The unique sound and contoured body of Fender guitars have made them a favorite among musicians worldwide.
Fender guitars have played a significant role in shaping the culture of music. The mass-produced nature of these guitars made them accessible to aspiring musicians, and they quickly became a household name. Fender’s influence on the music industry is undeniable, and their guitars have been used in countless iconic songs.
The sound of Fender guitars has been imitated and replicated by other musical instrument manufacturers, but none have been able to match the original sound and quality of Fender guitars. The iconic Stratocaster and Telecaster models have become synonymous with rock music, and many famous musicians have used them on stage and in the studio.
Fender’s influence on the music industry has gone beyond just guitars. They have also been involved in the production of amplifiers and other musical equipment. Fender’s commitment to quality and innovation has made them a leader in the musical instrument industry.
Fender Additional Products
In addition to guitars, Fender also offers a range of other products that you may be interested in. Here are some of the additional products that Fender offers:
Amplifiers
Fender is well-known for its amplifiers, which are used by many famous musicians. The company offers a range of different amplifiers, including tube amps, solid-state amps, and modeling amps. Whether you’re looking for a classic sound or something more modern, Fender has an amp that will suit your needs.
Pickups
If you’re looking to upgrade your guitar’s sound, Fender offers a range of different pickups that can help you achieve the tone you’re looking for. From single-coil pickups to humbuckers, Fender has a pickup that will work for your guitar.
Ukulele
If you’re interested in playing a ukulele, Fender offers a range of different options. The company offers both acoustic and electric ukuleles, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Fender Play
If you’re a beginner looking to learn how to play guitar, Fender Play is a great option. This online learning platform offers step-by-step lessons that will help you learn how to play guitar in no time.
Beginners
Fender offers a range of products that are perfect for beginners, including starter packs that include everything you need to get started playing guitar. These packs include a guitar, amplifier, and accessories, so you can start playing right away.
Fender Subsidiaries and Affiliations
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) owns several subsidiaries and has affiliations with various brands that produce guitars, amplifiers, and other music-related products. Here are some of the most notable ones:
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Squier by Fender is a brand that produces affordable guitars and basses. Squier guitars are built in Indonesia or China, and they are popular among beginners and intermediate players.
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Charvel is a brand that produces high-end electric guitars and basses. Charvel guitars are made in the USA and Japan, and they are known for their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
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Gretsch is a brand that produces guitars and drums. Gretsch guitars are made in the USA and Japan, and they are known for their distinctive sound and style.
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Jackson is a brand that produces electric guitars and basses. Jackson guitars are made in the USA and Mexico, and they are popular among metal and hard rock players.
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EVH is a brand that produces guitars, amplifiers, and accessories. EVH products are designed in collaboration with Eddie Van Halen, and they are known for their high-quality sound and performance.
Fender also has affiliations with other brands and companies in the music industry, such as FMIC Artist Relations, which works with musicians to promote Fender products and provide support for their careers. Additionally, Fender has partnerships with music festivals and events, such as the Fender Play Foundation, which provides music education and instruments to underserved communities.
Innovation and Future of Fender
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation has been a leader in the guitar manufacturing industry for over 70 years. Fender has been continuously innovating to provide the best guitars to musicians all over the world. The company has always been at the forefront of guitar design, and its innovations have helped shape the sound of modern music.
One of Fender’s most significant innovations was the Stratocaster, which was introduced in 1954. The Stratocaster was a revolutionary guitar that featured a contoured body, three single-coil pickups, and a tremolo system. The Stratocaster quickly became popular with musicians, and it has remained one of Fender’s most iconic guitars.
Fender continues to innovate and improve its guitar manufacturing process. The company has always been committed to producing high-quality instruments, and it has invested heavily in its manufacturing facilities. Fender has factories in the USA, Mexico, Japan, Korea, Indonesia, and China. Each factory is dedicated to producing specific lines of guitars, and Fender ensures that each factory adheres to the same high standards of quality.
Fender has also been working on improving its Made in Japan (MIJ) guitars. MIJ guitars have always been known for their high quality and unique features. Fender has been working to improve the quality of its MIJ guitars by incorporating new materials and manufacturing techniques. The company has also been introducing new finishes and colors to its MIJ guitars to make them more appealing to musicians.
In the future, Fender plans to continue innovating and improving its guitar manufacturing process. The company is committed to producing high-quality instruments that musicians can rely on. Fender will continue to invest in its manufacturing facilities and research new materials and manufacturing techniques to improve its guitars. Fender’s commitment to innovation and quality ensures that the company will remain a leader in the guitar manufacturing industry for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Fender guitars manufactured?
Fender guitars are manufactured in various countries, including the United States, Japan, and Mexico. The company has factories in Corona, California, and Ensenada, Mexico. Fender also has a factory in Japan, where they produce some of their high-end models.
What is the origin of Fender guitars?
Fender guitars were first introduced in the 1950s by Leo Fender. He founded the Fender Electric Instrument Company and was responsible for creating some of the most iconic guitars in history, including the Stratocaster and Telecaster.
Which countries produce Fender guitars?
Fender guitars are produced in the United States, Japan, and Mexico. The American-made Fender guitars are considered to be the highest quality, while the Japanese and Mexican-made guitars are more affordable.
What is the production process for Fender guitars?
The production process for Fender guitars involves selecting high-quality wood for the body and neck, cutting and shaping the wood, and assembling the guitar components. The process also includes painting and finishing the guitar, as well as testing and tuning it to ensure that it meets Fender’s quality standards.
Are all Fender guitars made in the USA?
No, not all Fender guitars are made in the USA. While the American-made Fender guitars are considered to be the highest quality, the company also produces guitars in Japan and Mexico. The Japanese and Mexican-made guitars are more affordable and are popular among musicians who are looking for a quality instrument at a lower price point.
What are some popular Fender guitar models?
Some popular Fender guitar models include the Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, and Precision Bass. These guitars are known for their high-quality construction, excellent sound, and iconic design. Fender also produces a wide range of other guitar models, including acoustic guitars and bass guitars.
