Fender’s Vintera series offers players a chance to experience the classic tones and aesthetics of the ’50s, ’60s, and ‘70s, all while benefiting from modern manufacturing techniques. Let’s explore the Vintera I and Vintera II series, highlighting their features, differences, and standout models.
🎶 Vintera I Series: The Original Vintage Revival
Introduced in 2019, the Vintera I series aimed to capture the essence of Fender’s golden eras. These guitars and basses were designed with period-correct specifications, offering players vintage-inspired instruments at accessible prices.
Key Features:
- Era-Specific Models: Stratocasters, Telecasters, Jazzmasters, Jaguars, Mustangs, Precision Basses, Jazz Basses, and Mustang Basses, each reflecting designs from the ’50s, ’60s, or ’70s.
- Neck Profiles: Varied by era, including ’50s soft “V”, ’60s “C”, and ’70s “U” shapes.
- Fingerboards: Pau ferro fretboards were standard, offering a smooth feel and warm tone.
- Pickups: Custom-voiced pickups designed to emulate vintage tones with slightly hotter outputs.
- Finishes: Classic colors like Seafoam Green, Fiesta Red, and Sonic Blue, true to the original eras.
🔄 Vintera II Series: Enhanced Vintage Authenticity
Launched in 2023, the Vintera II series builds upon its predecessor by incorporating even more accurate vintage specifications and introducing new models.
Notable Upgrades:
- Fingerboards: Return to rosewood fretboards, aligning closer with original vintage models.
- Pickups: Era-specific pickups designed for authentic vintage tones.
- Neck Profiles: Refined shapes for improved playability while maintaining vintage accuracy.
- New Models: Introduction of the ’60s Bass VI and ’70s Telecaster Bass, expanding the vintage lineup.
Vintera I vs. Vintera II: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Vintera I | Vintera II |
|---|---|---|
| Fingerboard | Pau ferro | Rosewood |
| Pickups | Custom-voiced, slightly hotter output | Era-specific, vintage-accurate tones |
| Neck Profiles | Varied by model and era | Refined for improved vintage accuracy |
| New Models | Standard vintage models | Includes ’60s Bass VI and ’70s Telecaster Bass |
| Finishes | Classic era-specific colors | Expanded vintage color palette |
🎸 Highlighted Models
Vintera II ’50s Stratocaster
- Neck: Mid-’50s soft “V” shape
- Fingerboard: 7.25” radius rosewood
- Pickups: Vintage-style ’50s single-coils
- Tone: Bright, articulate, and classic ’50s Strat sound
Vintera II ’60s Telecaster
- Neck: Early ’60s “C” shape
- Fingerboard: 7.25” radius rosewood
- Pickups: Vintage-style ’60s Tele single-coils
- Tone: Warm, twangy, and versatile
Vintera II ’70s Telecaster Deluxe
- Neck: ’70s “C” shape
- Fingerboard: 7.25” radius rosewood
- Pickups: Dual Wide Range humbuckers
- Tone: Thicker, more aggressive, suitable for rock genres
🎯 Choosing Between Vintera I and II
- Budget-Conscious Players: Vintera I models offer vintage vibes at a slightly lower price point.
- Authenticity Seekers: Vintera II models provide closer adherence to original vintage specifications.
- New Model Enthusiasts: Vintera II introduces models like the ’60s Bass VI and ’70s Telecaster Bass, not available in Vintera I.
Whether you’re a vintage purist or a modern player seeking classic tones, Fender’s Vintera series offers a range of instruments to suit your style and preferences. Explore the series to find the perfect match for your musical journey.
