(SOLD) Used Fender Telecaster Medium Scale MIJ 1986 Black
Fender Telecaster, black, made in Japan 1986, Boxer Series medium scale. This is a bit of a rare one! 'Medium scale' means 24.75 inches (or 314mm to 12th fret if you prefer, the same as a Les Paul), a little shorter than the standard 25.5" for a Telecaster but not as short as a 24" Jag or Mustang. The shorter scale gives the guitar a 'slinkier' feel; you can easily bend 1.5-2 full tones even with 11 gauge strings. It also takes a little bit of the edge off the traditional brightness you hear in a Tele, and while it still has that signature 'twang' and attack, the rounder tone is very pleasing to the ear and won't cut you head off. The slightly more 'compact' feel is very comfortable indeed, it really doesn't take much effort to play at all and is therefore quite hard to put down. The factory six saddle bridge is handy too, much easier to get the action and intonation right! The black finish and white guard 'tuxedo' combo is a classic, and with a few dings and a bit of play-wear, the guitar has a great 'legit relic' look. These E-serial Telecasters are exceptionally nicely put together, so grab a great player while you can.
Manufacturer: Fender
Model: Telecaster, Boxer Series Medium Scale (TL314-55)
Year: 1986 (serial E690307)
Made in: Japan
Finish: Black, 3-ply white guard
Body: Ash (unverified)
Neck: Maple, rosewood board
Mods: None
Neck pickup: Original Fender Japan T Neck
Bridge pickup: Original Fender Japan T Bridge
Case: Very basic Fender gig bag
Cosmetic condition notes: Moderate cosmetic wear. It'd be fair to call this a 'light legit relic', she certainly shows a few marks from 30+ years of play. The back is quite scratched, although there's nothing deep enough to show the wood. There's a few dents, chips, scratches on the front too, nothing too dramatic. The guard is scratched and a little discoloured but still sitting flush. The chrome has aged nicely and looks great. The dark rosewood board looks awesome, no dramas there at all. A few dings etc on the headstock, which has aged to a great colour, again, nothing nasty. Overall: fair condition.
Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good. The frets are in good condition, there's plenty of life left. The electrics have all been tested and work properly. The 24.75" scale and skinny round neck are a great combo, this is an effortless player that's especially good for fingerstyle stuff. Setup low with fresh 11/48 strings. Very good!