Gear article

Fender 351 Guitar Seat & Stand

The Fender 351 Guitar Seat & Stand is a dual-purpose performance furniture piece designed for guitarists and bassists. It combines a padded stool featuring a pick-shaped backrest with an integrated instrument stand and crossbar footrest.

Fender 351 Guitar Seat & Stand
Fender 351 Guitar Seat & Stand
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Overview

The Fender 351 Guitar Seat & Stand is a specialized piece of stage and studio equipment designed to facilitate long playing sessions. It serves as both a primary seat for the performer and a secure storage solution for their instrument. The design is intended to provide better ergonomic support than standard bar stools, specifically catering to the posture required for stringed instrument performance.

Design and Ergonomics

A primary feature of the 351 model is the padded seat and the distinctive pick-shaped backrest, which references Fender's iconic 351 plectrum shape. The unit includes an integrated crossbar footrest, allowing the player to elevate their leg for better instrument positioning. This configuration is intended to support an upright posture, which is often difficult to maintain on flat stools during extended rehearsals or live sets.

Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Mic with Stand and Cable
Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Mic with Stand and Cable

Integrated Instrument Stand

The base of the seat features a built-in guitar stand capable of holding most standard guitars and basses. This allows performers to safely store their instrument within arm's reach during breaks or between sets without needing a separate floor stand. The stand is positioned beneath the seat to maintain a compact footprint on stage.

Portability and Utility

Despite its dual-function design, the Fender 351 is built for transport. The backrest is removable, and the legs are designed to fold down, reducing the unit's size for transit to gigs or rehearsals. This makes it a space-saving option for touring musicians who require both a dedicated seat and an instrument stand.

Comparative Context

While standard equipment like the Trojan Pro Mic Stand or K&M 214/6 Speaker Stand focus on supporting peripheral gear, the Fender 351 is focused on the musician's physical comfort and the immediate accessibility of their instrument. It provides a more integrated solution than using a separate chair and a standard stand, such as the Hercules DS504B, particularly in environments with limited floor space.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Fender 351 Guitar Seat & Stand?
It is a dual-purpose piece of equipment that provides a padded seat for the performer and a built-in stand to hold a guitar or bass during breaks.
Does the seat include a backrest?
Yes, it features a padded backrest shaped like a classic 351 Fender pick for added comfort and style.
Can the backrest be removed?
Yes, the backrest is removable, which helps make the unit more compact for transportation.
How does the unit fold for travel?
The legs of the seat are foldable, allowing the unit to be collapsed into a flatter profile once the backrest is removed.
What kind of instruments can the integrated stand hold?
The stand is designed to securely hold most standard-shaped electric guitars, acoustic guitars, and bass guitars.
Is there a place to rest your feet while playing?
Yes, the seat includes an integrated crossbar footrest designed to accommodate various leg positions for better playing posture.
What makes this better than a standard bar stool for guitarists?
Unlike flat bar stools, this seat features specific padding, an ergonomic backrest, and a footrest tailored to the needs of a seated guitarist.
What is the typical price for the Fender 351 Guitar Seat & Stand?
The product typically retails around the £100 mark in the UK market.
Is the seat height adjustable?
The seat is designed at a fixed height optimal for use with the integrated footrest, though specific mechanical adjustment details are not listed as a primary feature.
How does the 351 Seat compare to using a separate stand like a Hercules DS504B?
The Fender 351 combines the stand and seat into one footprint, whereas a stand like the Hercules DS504B is a dedicated instrument holder without seating.
Is the padding suitable for long sessions?
Yes, the manufacturer describes the seat and backrest as 'luxurious' and 'padded,' specifically intended for long rehearsals or performance sets.
Can the stand be used while the musician is sitting on the stool?
The stand is primarily designed to hold the guitar securely during breaks in rehearsals or sets when the musician is not actively playing the instrument.