Gear article

Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster Neck (22 Frets, Maple)

The Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster Neck is a premium replacement component designed for upgrading, restoring, or customising USA-specification Telecaster electric guitars. Manufactured in the same facility as Fender's American-series instruments, it features a 9.5" radius, 22 medium jumbo frets, and hand-rolled fingerboard edges for enhanced playability.

Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster Neck 22 Medium Jumbo Frets 9.5" Radius Maple
Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster Neck 22 Medium Jumbo Frets 9.5" Radius Maple
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Overview and Design

The Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster Neck is an authentic replacement part produced in Fender’s American manufacturing facility. It is designed to adhere to the brand's long-standing bolt-on neck tradition, allowing for straightforward installation on compatible USA-spec bodies. The neck is constructed from maple and features a satin urethane finish on the back, which is intended to prevent the player's hand from sticking during rapid position shifts.

Key Playability Features

This neck utilizes a 'Modern C' profile, a versatile shape designed to accommodate both chordal work and lead playing. The fingerboard carries a 9.5" radius, which is flatter than vintage Fender specifications, facilitating cleaner string bends without the risk of 'fretting out'. Additionally, the neck is equipped with 22 medium jumbo frets and hand-rolled fingerboard edges, providing a worn-in feel that mimics a well-played instrument straight from the factory.

Daniil Leshchynskyi
Daniil Leshchynskyi

Technical Specifications

The neck includes several features to assist in professional setup and maintenance:

  • Nut Material: Pre-slotted synthetic bone for accurate string spacing.
  • Finish: Satin urethane on the back with a gloss headstock face.
  • Fret Wire: 22 Medium Jumbo frets.
  • Radius: 9.5 inches.
  • Nut Width: Standard USA specification.

Target Audience and Application

This component is primarily aimed at guitarists performing high-end upgrades or restorations of existing Fender Telecaster models. Its modern specifications make it suitable for contemporary players like Daniil Leshchynskyi and Emily Green who require reliable performance and ergonomic comfort. While it is a direct fit for most American-series Telecaster bodies, it also serves as a premium choice for custom 'partscaster' builds using USA-spec hardware.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to vintage-style necks, such as those found on Custom Shop '61 Relic models, the American Professional neck offers a more modern radius and additional frets (22 versus the traditional 21). While Squier models like the Mini Stratocaster or Jim Root Telecaster offer different scale lengths or aesthetic choices, the American Professional Classic neck focuses on balancing traditional Telecaster aesthetics with modern performance reliability and a premium tactile finish.

Artists who play it

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Frequently asked questions

Where is this neck manufactured?
The neck is manufactured in Fender’s American production facility, the same factory where their flagship USA-made instruments are built.
What is the neck profile of this model?
It features a 'Modern C' profile, which is designed to be comfortable for a wide variety of playing styles, including both rhythm and lead.
How many frets does this neck have?
This specific neck is equipped with 22 frets, providing a slightly extended range compared to traditional 21-fret vintage necks.
What type of fret wire is used?
The neck features medium jumbo frets, which are popular for providing a balance between easy string bending and comfortable fretting.
What is the fingerboard radius?
The fingerboard has a 9.5-inch radius. This is a standard modern Fender specification that allows for lower action and easier bending than a 7.25-inch vintage radius.
What finish is applied to the back of the neck?
The back of the neck is finished in satin urethane. This choice is intended to provide a smooth, non-stick feel for the player's thumb and palm.
Does the neck include a nut?
Yes, it comes with a pre-slotted synthetic bone nut. This ensures that string spacing is accurately set, though final filing may be required for specific string gauges.
Are the fingerboard edges treated in any special way?
The neck features hand-rolled fingerboard edges. This manufacturing step creates a smoother transition between the side and face of the neck for a 'broken-in' feel.
Is this neck compatible with all Telecaster bodies?
It is designed for USA-spec Telecaster bodies. While it follows the standard bolt-on design, users should verify compatibility with non-USA or non-Fender bodies before installation.
What is the primary material of the neck?
The neck is constructed from maple, which is the traditional wood choice for Fender Telecaster necks, known for its bright tonal characteristics.
Which artists are known to use Fender Telecaster equipment?
Artists such as Daniil Leshchynskyi and Emily Green are associated with using Fender gear for their performances and recordings.
What is the typical retail price for this replacement neck?
The typical price for this Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster Neck is approximately £549.