The new Fender Player II series features almost 80 (!) new models. The Player series is to Fender a bit like the Junior models are to Gibson. The first generation and successor to the Mexico Standard models was introduced six years ago. Now comes version 2, which has optional rosewood fretboards, new colors, and improved hardware.
Fender Player II: From 2018 to today
What’s included in Fender Player II? Pretty much all models. You’ve got Stratocaster models in several configurations, Telecasters, Mustang, Jaguar, Jazzmaster, P Bass, Jazz Bass, and Mustang Bass models. The original from 2018 seems to have been such a massive success, that they’ve only made a few minor tweaks to keep it fresh.
Depending on the model, we still have Alnico pickups, medium-jumbo frets, bolt-on maple necks with a modern C profile, a 9.5-inch radius, and an alder body. It makes sense in this price range, and it worked well. So why change anything?
Rosewood option and ClassicGear tuners
Fender Player II still offers maple fingerboards for all models. But if you’ve always wanted to play a Tele with a rosewood fingerboard or a Strat in the Player series, now’s your chance. Every model is now available with rosewood fingerboards in addition to maple. It’s good to have that option whether you’re looking for a different sound, look, or feel. The fretboard edges have also been slightly rounded.
The Fender Player II series comes with new tuners, namely ClassicGear tuners. Until now, these have only been available on the higher-end American Performer models. The bridge has also been reworked, with adjustments made depending on the model. And the whole range comes in a host of new colors.
Aquatone Blue, Coral Red, Birch Green, Black and Hialeah Yellow are the new colors available in almost every series. In addition, there are still finishes from the first Player series, such as 3-Color Sunburst or Polar White. Let’s not forget that the bass section includes new P-basses, J-basses and Mustang basses.
What do the new Fender Player II models cost?
In this respect, Fender’s pricing policy has remained stable. Most models at Thomann* are priced between 699 and 899 euros. This is just above Squier’s Paranormal but not far from some of the Signature models.
More on the new series
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