Gear article

Fender Player II Stratocaster Left Handed (Rosewood, Polar White)

The Fender Player II Stratocaster Left Handed is a modern iteration of the iconic electric guitar, specifically designed for southpaw musicians. It combines traditional Fender aesthetics with contemporary updates like a 22-fret rosewood fingerboard and Alnico V single-coil pickups.

Fender Player II Stratocaster Left Handed RW Polar White
Fender Player II Stratocaster Left Handed RW Polar White
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Overview and History

The Fender Player II Series serves as the primary gateway into the Fender brand's Mexican-made instrument line, succeeding the original Player Series. This left-handed model in Polar White is built to provide the quintessential Stratocaster experience for left-handed players, balancing cost-efficiency with professional-grade hardware.

Historically, the Player Series has been the industry standard for intermediate to professional workhorse guitars. The 'II' designation signifies a refinement of the formula, introducing specific upgrades to the neck feel and component selection to meet the demands of modern performance environments.

Construction and Playability

The guitar features a modern 'C' shaped neck profile, which is a versatile shape designed to accommodate various hand sizes and playing styles. The rosewood fingerboard has a 9.5-inch radius, a contemporary standard that facilitates both comfortable chording and easier note bending.

A significant feature of the Player II is the inclusion of 22 medium jumbo frets, offering a slightly extended range and more surface area for vibrato compared to vintage-spec 21-fret models. The neck is finished with satin urethane on the back for a smooth feel, while the headstock face retains a gloss urethane finish for a premium look.

Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster Black
Fender Eric Clapton Stratocaster Black

Electronics and Hardware

Equipped with three Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Strat pickups, the guitar is engineered for high-output clarity. These pickups use Alnico V magnets to produce a crisp, articulate tone that retains the classic 'quack' and 'sparkle' associated with the Stratocaster design.

Performance stability is managed by a 2-point synchronized tremolo bridge featuring bent steel saddles, which offers smoother action than traditional 6-screw designs. Tuning integrity is further bolstered by the inclusion of Fender ClassicGear tuning machines, providing a vintage aesthetic with modern precision.

Comparative Analysis

Within the Fender ecosystem, this model sits above the Squier Limited Edition Mini Stratocaster in terms of build quality and scale. It serves as a more accessible alternative to the American Professional II Stratocaster, which often features different tonewoods like Roasted Pine.

Compared to fixed-bridge instruments like the Jim Root Telecaster or Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s P90, the Player II Stratocaster offers a vastly different tactile experience due to its tremolo system and triple single-coil configuration. While the Kurt Cobain Jaguar offers a short-scale offset alternative for left-handed players, the Player II Stratocaster remains the more traditional choice for those seeking a standard long-scale Fender instrument.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the fingerboard material on this model?
This specific model features a rosewood fingerboard, providing a classic look and smooth feel under the fingers.
How many frets does the Player II Stratocaster have?
The guitar is equipped with 22 medium jumbo frets, providing one extra fret compared to vintage-style Stratocasters.
What type of pickups are installed in this guitar?
It uses Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Strat pickups, designed for articulate and crisp tones.
What is the neck profile of the Player II Stratocaster?
The guitar features a Modern 'C' shaped neck, which is a versatile profile intended for comfortable playability.
What bridge system does this guitar use?
It features a 2-point synchronized tremolo system with bent steel saddles for improved performance and tuning stability.
Is this guitar suitable for left-handed players?
Yes, this specific model is a dedicated left-handed version of the Fender Player II Stratocaster.
What tuning machines are included on this model?
The guitar is fitted with Fender ClassicGear tuning machines, which combine vintage looks with modern gearing ratios.
What finish is applied to the neck?
The back of the neck has a satin urethane finish for a non-stick feel, while the headstock face has a gloss urethane finish.
What is the fingerboard radius?
The rosewood fingerboard has a 9.5-inch (241 mm) radius, balancing comfort for chords and lead playing.
What is the typical price for this model in the UK?
The typical price range for this model is approximately £724.
In what colour is this specific model finished?
This model is finished in Polar White, a bright and clean solid white aesthetic.
How does this compare to the American Professional II series?
The Player II is the Mexican-made equivalent, offering high performance at a lower price point than the American Professional II, though it uses different hardware and pickup specifications.