Gear article

Fender American Professional II Stratocaster MN Sienna Sunburst

The Fender American Professional II Stratocaster is a premium electric guitar that continues the legacy of one of the world's most iconic instruments. Featuring V-Mod II pickups and a deep 'C'-shaped neck profile, it is designed for precision performance across a wide range of musical genres.

Fender American Professional II Stratocaster MN Sienna Sunburst
Fender American Professional II Stratocaster MN Sienna Sunburst
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Overview

The Fender American Professional II Stratocaster in Sienna Sunburst with a Maple Neck (MN) represents the evolution of Fender's flagship American-made line. It is built to offer the classic charisma and recognizable flair that has made the Stratocaster a powerhouse in the industry for decades. Every detail of this model has been fine-tuned to balance timeless Fender charm with modern performance demands.

History and Background

The Stratocaster has thrived through decades of music history, becoming a staple for guitarists worldwide. The American Professional II series was introduced as the successor to the original American Professional range, aiming to refine the player experience. This specific model serves to continue the instrument's legacy by incorporating user-focused updates while maintaining the classic aesthetic that defined the solid-body electric guitar.

Daniil Leshchynskyi
Daniil Leshchynskyi

Key Features and Design

This model is meticulously designed for precision and playability. Key technical features include:

  • V-Mod II Pickups: Specially voiced single-coil pickups that deliver a balanced, articulated tone.
  • Deep 'C' Neck Profile: A popular neck shape that provides a comfortable grip for a variety of playing styles.
  • Two-Point Synchronised Tremolo: Offers smooth pitch manipulation and stable tuning.
  • Maple Fingerboard: Provides a bright, snappy response and a classic look when paired with the Sienna Sunburst finish.

Sound and Character

The American Professional II Stratocaster is known for its sleek, addictive playability and versatile sound. The V-Mod II pickups allow the player's personal expression to come to life, offering everything from crystalline cleans to gritty, overdriven textures. The combination of the maple neck and synchronized tremolo ensures the guitar maintains the 'snap' and resonance associated with high-end Fender instruments.

Target Audience and Comparisons

This guitar suits professional musicians and serious enthusiasts who require a reliable, versatile instrument for performance and recording. It is notably used by artists such as Daniil Leshchynskyi and Emily Green.

When compared to other models in the Fender catalogue, it offers a more modern feel than the Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster or the vintage-spec Custom Shop '61 Telecaster Relic. For those seeking a different tonal profile, the Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s P90 provides a thicker humbucking/P90 character, whereas the American Professional II Stratocaster focuses on the traditional single-coil 'quack' and clarity. It also serves as a significant professional upgrade over entry-level options like the Squier Mini Stratocaster or Stagg SES-30 models.

Artists who play it

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Frequently asked questions

What is the typical price for this model?
The Fender American Professional II Stratocaster MN Sienna Sunburst typically retails for approximately £1,860.
What type of pickups are installed in this guitar?
This guitar is equipped with V-Mod II Single-Coil Strat pickups, which are fine-tuned for clarity and balanced output across all positions.
What is the neck profile of the American Pro II Strat?
The guitar features a popular deep 'C'-shaped neck profile, designed to provide a comfortable feel for both rhythm and lead playing.
What bridge system does this Stratocaster use?
It features a two-point synchronised tremolo bridge, which allows for expressive vibrato while maintaining better tuning stability than traditional six-screw designs.
How does the 'MN' designation affect the guitar?
MN stands for Maple Neck. This typically results in a brighter, punchier tone with a faster feel compared to Rosewood alternatives.
Who are some notable artists using this gear?
Artists associated with this equipment include Daniil Leshchynskyi and Emily Green, who utilise its versatile tonal range.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?
While its high build quality makes it easy to play, it is a professional-grade instrument priced at £1,860, making it more common among serious students and professionals than absolute beginners.
What finish is available for this specific model?
This specific model features the Sienna Sunburst finish, a classic Fender colour that highlights the wood grain of the body.
How does this compare to the Jim Root Telecaster?
The Jim Root Telecaster is designed for high-gain metal with humbuckers and a flat finish, whereas the American Pro II Strat is a versatile single-coil instrument suited for a multitude of styles.
What is the body material for the Sienna Sunburst version?
While many Stratocasters use alder, the Sienna Sunburst and Roasted Pine models often utilise pine or ash to enhance the specific aesthetics of the translucent finish.
Does this model come with a case?
As part of the American Professional II series, this guitar typically includes a deluxe molded hardshell case to protect the instrument during transport.
What genres is the American Pro II Stratocaster suited for?
Thanks to its V-Mod II pickups and versatile switching, it is suited for almost any genre, including rock, blues, pop, funk, and jazz.