Product Description

Leo Fender launched the Stratocaster electric guitar in 1954, as an upgrade to his revolutionary Telecaster. The 'Strat' - streamlined, chrome-plated, efficient, fast and sexy - soon gained icon status. Today, while original models change hands for thousands of dollars, almost identical Stratocasters are mass-produced by Fender USA for sale worldwide. The 'Strat' remains a low-maintenance 'good little runner' and, with the help of this practical 'how to' manual, will last a lifetime.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #6534 in Books
• Published on: 2006-10-12
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• 175 pages

About the Author
Paul Balmer has owned and played 'Strats' for 40 years, and remains an enthusiast. He runs the award-winning London DVD and Broadcast company 'Music on Earth'. An established author, he has written the acclaimed official biography of Stephane Grappelli and is a contributor to the Penguin Encyclopaedia of Popular Music.

Customer Reviews

A real joy - if you buy a copy, you won't be disappointed
I just received a copy of this book today, and I can't put it down. It's an easy to read, informative, well produced, well organised and very clearly presented book - a real joy.

This book is for you if you're interested in buying a Strat, if you own a Strat, if you're interested in the history and features of the Strat over the years, if you want to set-up, maintain or repair your own Strat, if you are interested in the instruments of many of the most distinguished Strat players (for example; Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, Mark Knopfler, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Hank Marvin).

If you like Strats, you will love this book. If you buy a copy, you won't be disappointed.

Does exactly what it says on the tin
Paul Balmer not only has years of experience in playing, repairing and setting up this guitar but also has an obvious love for the Strat and its creator, Leo Fender.

He writes with genuine enthuisiasm, throwing in very good practical advice - including "don'ts" gained from youthful experimentation - as well as humour. He also aims the book at beginners and professionals alike, compares Stratocasters from different eras including priceless vintage models and the Squier models - ideal for cheapskates like me!

I've had the book (it's actually the American edition not the Haynes one) for just under a day and it's helped me set up my £65 Korean Squier to a stage where it is sounding and playing better already.

A personal message to Mr. Balmer - hope your red '62 turns up somewhere!

I agree, a must!
I bought this book in a shop (sorry Amazon) as an impulse buy. What a bargain! If you own a stratocaster you definitely need one of these. It's fascinating. If you don't own one, start saving up as you'll have to buy one after reading this.