On Tuesday, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) and the Fender Custom Shop (FCS) announced that they have introduced the Limited Edition Ariel Posen Stratocaster®, "an instrument with enough versatility and raw playing power to properly honor the virtuosic guitarist, songwriter, producer and vocalist. Posen’s playing is unique not just in its sheer technical proficiency and musicality, but in the way it spans a number of genres ranging from old delta blues to neo soul to good old fashion rock and roll. With this in mind, the Fender Custom Shop understood that Posen’s signature instrument had to come ready to tackle just about any sonic assignment under the sun. Thanks to a set of custom AP-90 pickups, designed in tandem with Tim Shaw, and simple but powerful controls, the Limited Edition Ariel Posen Stratocaster® can handle scorching hot solos and sultry chord work in equal measure."
“This is the most genuine and authentic representation of what I’m looking for in a guitar,” said Ariel Posen. “I was always a Strat ® guy and always felt most comfortable playing them, so it was important to capture those qualities. But the AP90 pickups really highlight my love for Jazzmasters—there’s something so open and airy about those guitars. More than anything, this Strat® embodies everything I love about Fender and condenses it into one instrument.”
"Ariel Posen first arrived at the guitar after spending years on the road with his two parents, both touring musicians, and developing the musical itch for himself," they said in a statement. "While he began his journey on the piano, an adolescent love for ‘90s grunge and The Beatles found him swapping out the keys for a Strat®. Today, whether he is captivating packed venues across the world, on his upcoming U.S. Tour this fall, or regaling his social audience, Posen has carved out a place for himself among the heroes of modern day guitar playing."
"From the Journeyman Relic® Faded Lake Placid Blue finish to the quarter sawn AA flame maple neck, the Limited Edition Ariel Posen Stratocaster® oozes with road worn charm," they continued. "But don’t let this guitar’s vintage appeal fool you, it is outfitted with new, custom electronics that are versatile and powerful. A pair of pickups were custom made with Fender’s legendary pickup designer, Tim Shaw, to capture the full spectrum of Posen’s sonic vocabulary—from swampy, growling leads to glassy clean tones and everything in between, these pickups deliver perfect harmonic clarity across all playing styles. In tandem with the vintage-style hardtail Stratocaster® bridge and roasted alder body, it’s nearly impossible for this guitar to deliver anything short of full-bodied, resonant perfection."
"In addition, this Stratocaster® includes a 1969 “U” neck shape, 9.5” radius, 21 vintage frets, mother of pearl inlays, custom Caballo Férreo (master volume, master tone) wiring, 3-way switch, 3-ply parchment pickguard, vintage-style tuning machines, bone nut, American Vintage ‘59-’64 string tree, deluxe hardshell case, Moody Leather Ariel Posen signature strap, The Rock Slide Ariel Posen signature brass slide, Dunlop Ariel Posen picks and certificate of authenticity. Watch the demo video introducing the Limited Edition Ariel Posen Stratocaster."
“Ariel Posen’s playing style is outright jaw-dropping. He has a remarkable ability to weave together beautiful melodies, intricate technique and captivating dynamics in a way that’s approachable to a wide group of guitar players. When the Custom Shop had the opportunity to work with him on his signature Stratocaster®, we knew it needed to exceed his expectations. Our hope is that this particular combination of custom pickups, tonewoods and hardware come together to inspire players as powerfully as Ariel’s music does,” said Chase Paul, Director of the Fender Custom Shop.
"In tandem to the announcement, Fender is debuting From the Factory Floor: a new series that takes viewers where the magic happens – inside the Fender factory in Corona, CA, where Fender’s favorite artists perform live and talk shop with the builders and experts who bring the guitars and amplifiers to life," they said. "Watch as the first episode kicks off with Ariel Posen – taking a closer look at his new Signature Custom Shop Stratocaster."
For technical specs, additional information on new Fender® products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fendercustomshop.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender and @FenderCustomShop.
