Fender is one of the most iconic names in the world of electric guitars and amplifiers. Founded in Fullerton, California, in 1946 by Leo Fender, the company has played a major role in shaping modern music. Leo Fender’s groundbreaking designs changed the landscape of guitar building, and today, Fender remains a leader in the industry. The current headquarters of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) is in Scottsdale, Arizona. Some key people associated with Fender include Leo Fender, who founded the company, and George Fullerton, an important figure in the development of Fender’s early models.
Tremolos at Fender
Fender is known for popularizing the use of the tremolo bar (often colloquially referred to as the “whammy bar”) with several of its iconic models, including the Fender Stratocaster. The Stratocaster was introduced in 1954, and its synchronized tremolo system became one of the defining features of the guitar. The tremolo system allows players to alter the pitch of the strings by moving the tremolo bar, giving the sound a signature vibrato effect. Over the years, Fender has refined its tremolo systems, including floating and synchronized tremolo designs, making their guitars versatile for a variety of musical styles.
The term “whammy bar” is often used interchangeably with “tremolo bar,” but technically, tremolo refers to a modulation of volume, while the whammy bar creates a modulation of pitch. Nevertheless, the name stuck and became an essential part of guitar vocabulary when discussing Fender guitars.
Popular Products
Fender Stratocaster: Known for its sleek design, three single-coil pickups, and signature synchronized tremolo system, the Stratocaster is one of Fender’s most famous models. The tremolo bar allows players to add a smooth or aggressive vibrato effect, making it favored by legends such as Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton.
Fender American Professional II Stratocaster: This model features an upgraded two-point synchronized tremolo system, which enhances tuning stability while still offering smooth tremolo bar action.
Fender Player Stratocaster: Designed for entry-level to mid-range guitarists, this model includes a six-point synchronized tremolo system, making it an affordable yet reliable option for players who want to experiment with tremolo bar effects.
Consumer Reviews
Fender tremolo systems, especially those on their Stratocasters, are praised for their smooth action and durability. Most users appreciate the balance between the ease of use and the tonal control the tremolo bar provides. However, some reviews mention the difficulty in keeping the guitar in tune after excessive use of the tremolo bar, especially on older models without modern locking tuners. Overall, Fender tremolo-equipped guitars are regarded as versatile, allowing players to achieve anything from subtle pitch changes to dramatic whammy bar dives.
Where to Buy Fender Tremolos and Guitars
You can purchase Fender tremolo-equipped guitars from various retailers, including:
- Fender Official Website: Fender Home Page
- Guitar Center: They offer a range of Fender guitars with tremolo systems. Fender at Guitar Center
- Sweetwater: Known for their customer service and range of products, Sweetwater carries a wide selection of Fender guitars. Fender at Sweetwater
- Thomann: A European-based retailer with a vast array of Fender products. Fender at Thomann
Fender’s tremolo systems remain some of the most sought after in the guitar world, particularly for those who enjoy the expressiveness that a tremolo bar, or whammy bar, can offer.
