A masterpiece
Are you looking for a real Strat? Yes? Well. Today we will see an instrument of great value, certainly not cheap, obviously, but a real masterpiece that cannot disappoint who wants a great quality guitar with all the necessary to play everything. The distinctive element of this model is, in fact, the versatility.
The main features
Let's see the main elements of the Eric Clapton Strat in the following table.
| Specs |
|---|
| Body | Alder |
| Finish | Urethane |
| Neck | Maple |
| Neck shape | Soft "V" |
| Scale length | 25.5" (648 mm) |
| Fingerboard | Maple |
| Fingerboard radius | 9.5" (241 mm) |
| Number of frets | 22 |
| Fret size | Vintage-Style |
| Nut width | 1.650" (42 mm) |
| Electronics | Active |
| Special features | Mid-boost (25 db) and TBX circuit |
| Pickups | 3 Vintage Noiseless Single-Coils |
| Bridge | 6-Saddle American Vintage Synchronized Tremolo |
| Tremolo type | Blocked |
| Hardware finish | Chrome |
| Pickguard | 1-Ply |
| Strings | Fender USA 250R, NPS, (.010 - .046 Gauges) |
| Available colors | Olympic White, Black, Pewter, Torino Red |
| Included accessories | Vintage Tweed Case, Strap, Cable |
The TBX circuit and the Mid-boost
This system was introduced in 1988 and isn't, in itself, a booster, like someone thinks, but a cutter of lows and treble, so mids are brought out. The tone control, in this system, acts in a double modality. From 0 to 5 it works like a standard tone control, while after position 5 it activates the TBX circuit. We can consider it an example of subtractive equalization.
The Mid-boost is an active circuit, it uses a battery, that boosts mids of 25db. The two systems together make this guitar really versatile and flexible.
How it works
The neck, with a slight V-shape, is really comfortable and fast. The action can be set very low without any frets buzz. Obviously the Eric Clapton Strat is perfectly built and without imperfections.
The three Vintage Noiseless pickups sound great, the Mid-boost system is really efficient and creates a tone pleasantly fatter, the TBX circuit makes this guitar much versatile. Undoubtedly, a value instrument.
Final opinion
If you are looking for a real Strat and, at the same time, a flexible instrument, this is the guitar for you. It is really extraordinary, and cannot disappoint. Yes, it is very expensive, the price is rather important, but certainly the Eric Clapton Strat is worth how much it costs. A great electric guitar.