Fender Strat Plus Deluxe, antique burst, made in Corona USA 1989. The Strat Plus launched in 1987 to wide acclaim: it was a Strat, but with clever hardware and some modern features that struck a chord with players and critics alike at the time. The Plus Deluxe launched in 1989, so this spicy thing is a first year example. This finish, with the burst over the highly figured ash veneer, only existed for a year or two. It looks amazing, the grain is gorgeous and the burst has a certain depth to it. The alder body and rosewood board combo lends this a rich, balanced fullness. There’s heaps of attack and spank when you dig in, balanced by a wide and complex midrange that lends chords and lead lines an airy, eloquent quality. The neck is in great shape after all these years, the frets are in good order and everything feels reassuring and sturdy in the hands. It’s an easy neck to get along with: the slim shape is comfy and intuitive and the flatter radius makes for easy bends. These aren’t getting any easier to find as the decades roll on, so Plus Deluxify your life and thank me later!

Model: Fender Strat Plus Deluxe
Made: USA, Corona plant, neck date May 16 1989 (serial E945100)
Finish: antique burst, 3-ply white guard
Body: alder body, ash veneer front/back
Neck: maple with rosewood board, 25.5” scale, 9.5” radius, slim C profile
Weight: 3.555kg
Mods: none
Pickups: Lace Sensor blue/silver/red single coil x3, passive treble boost circuit
Case: original Fender Plus ABS moulded hard case

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. The headstock has some minor dimples on the end and bottom edge. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, very minor dimples and some glossing from play on the back only. The back has a handful of minor scuffs around the whole body, mostly surrounding the cavity and up in the elbow area, no major marks. The sides have no major marks, just some minor dimples in the elbow area, near the jack and on the bottom horn. The front has a couple of dimples behind the bridge and in the elbow area, as well as some minor scuffs around the whole body. Overall: excellent condition (9/10).

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. The frets have some minor wear only, 8/10 for fret life left. Wearing fresh 10/46 Moonshiners.