Strats Rule!

Indeed they do. Here's my collection to date (L-R: 1966, 1974, 1978, and 2008 Eric Clapton CS)

Despite being the same models, all of them vary individually in feel, tone, and playability. I guess that's the great thing about these guitars; they feel very personal and sometimes conjure up soul (think blues music and how you treat 'em). The various features of Stratocasters are also interesting to tell. The evolution of these fine instruments from day one till today showcase many fine engineering feats and most of these features have outlived many other brands and makes of guitars today (and I reckon, many many years ahead as well). The Stratocaster's design indeed, is one of the most future proof designs ever substantiated. Goes to show that good practical ideas are hard to beat and are here to stay. It further cements my view on "doing it right the first time" much alike automotive engineering principles. A big thank you goes to the legendary and late Leo Fender, creator of the Fender Stratocaster.

I'd like to share the many different traits of my Strats as I favour them:

(a) 1966 - Light, resonant alder body with a remaining 2-tone sunburst finish. Apparently, the red layer (3rd tone) was to have faded away to due to UV exposure over the last 42 years of existence in this planet. Got a medium U-shaped neck stamped "13 JUN 66B" which is fast yet comfortable. Mine has been refretted with jumbo frets. The bridge pickup reminds me a lot of the Albert King bending tone. This characteristic has to be the hallmark of this guitar. I mostly pickup this guitar if I want that particular tone exclusively. Great CBS era axe.

(b) 1974 - The rawest Strat tone of them all, possibly the lightest body among the other Strats here as well. Finish is fair, as you can see from the photo. Definitely a player's guitar with good tone and playability. The original owner(s) were probably profesionnal musicians in their own rights. This guitar looks and feels like it's been played and loved all these years in a pub or something. Twang factor is mild, but present. Great for all the Hendrix era tunes. All pickups from this axe have the "70s"vibes; well obviously eh :-) . My current favourite vintage Strat.

(c) 1978 - Huge baseball maple neck on this swamp ash body guitar. Classic maple Strat sounds and a great utlitarian more than anything else in the collection. 5 way switch brings out the best in this medium weight Stratocaster. The finish on this guitar is quite good, considering her age. Clear finish appears to have been stripped off from the neck by previous owner., leaving only a faint of original clear on the headstock covering the decals. Other than that and a refret, she's all original from 1978. Nice twang factor especially on the in-between pickup selections.

(d) 2008 EC CS - My current jam / gig guitar. Very versatile; active electronics ,25db mid boost, and a TBX control. Very nice soft "V" neck with mild satin finish. Goes from a traditional single coil twangy tone to a searing P90 and humbucker spectrum with just a turn of the tone knob (which activates the mid boost) Oh, an instant EC tone for sure :-). It says "Eric Clapton - Blackie" at the back of the headstock. Comes complete with a tweed case and case candies, oh, and the custom shop certification too. Very pleased with this purchase.

Next up, amplifiers and acoustic boxes... stay tuned.