Fender Stratocaster American Professional II - maple fingerboard - Olympic White
The ultimate icon, redefined to push the boundaries of your performance.
The Fender American Professional II Stratocaster® merges over sixty years of innovation to meet the demands of today's musicians. With its ultra-comfortable "Deep C" neck profile and new V-Mod II pickups, it delivers legendary clarity and sustain. Whether for the studio or the stage, this instrument is the ultimate authority in playability and versatility, available now at Garage à Musique.
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The Sound Authority: Why is the American Professional II Stratocaster indispensable?
The Stratocaster is the most influential guitar in history, but the American Professional II series is its most technically accomplished version. It addresses the practical challenges faced by musicians: the new cold-rolled steel vibrato block significantly improves sustain and harmonic response, while the intelligent "Push-Push" electronics allow the neck pickup to be permanently activated for tonal combinations previously reserved for modified models. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, this Stratocaster offers surgical reliability and versatility that adapts to all musical genres, positioning Garage à Musique as your trusted partner.
Full Technical Specifications
Body & Construction
| Characteristic | Details |
| Series | American Professional II |
| Body material | Alder or Roasted Pine depending on the finish |
| Body finish | Glossy polyurethane (Gloss Urethane) |
| Body shape | Stratocaster® |
| Configuration | SSS (Triple Single-Coil) |
Neck & Fingerboard
| Characteristic | Details |
| Handle material | Maple |
| Construction | 4 screws with sculpted heel (4-Bolt) |
| Handle finish | Satin "Super-Natural" (back), Glossy (head) |
| Handle profile | Deep "C" |
| Tuning fork | 25.5" (648 mm) |
| Touch | Maple or Rosewood |
| Touchdown radius | 9.5" (241 mm) |
| Number of frets | 22 |
| Type of frets | Narrow Tall |
| Nut | Bone |
| Nut width | 1.685" (42.8 mm) |
| Inlays | Black or white spots |
| Adjustment rod | Standard (Head fit) |
Electronics & Marine Hardware
| Characteristic | Details |
| Bridge Microphone | V-Mod II Single-Coil Strat® |
| Micro Central | V-Mod II Single-Coil Strat® |
| Micro Neck | V-Mod II Single-Coil Strat® |
| Controls | Master Volume (Treble Bleed), Tone 1 (Neck/Middle), Tone 2 (Bridge) |
| Selector | 5 positions (Blade) |
| Special Electronics | Push-Push on Tone 2 (Adds the neck pickup to positions 1 and 2) |
| Easel | Synchronized 2-point vibrato with steel saddles and cold-rolled steel block |
| Mechanics | Fender® Standard Cast/Sealed Staggered |
| Pickguard | 3-Ply (Mint Green, Black or Tortoiseshell depending on the model) |
| Buttons | "Aged White" Plastic |
| Hardware Finish | Nickel/Chrome |
Dimensions & Accessories
| Characteristic | Details |
| Ropes | Fender® USA 250L NPS (.009-.042 Gauges) |
| Case included | Deluxe Molded Hard Case |
| Origin | USA (Corona, California) |
Comparative Analysis
Based on consensus from Sound on Sound, MusicRadar and Gearspace.
| Alternative Product | Market Segment | Comparative Analysis | Available at Garage à Musique |
| Fender American Ultra Strat | Modern High Performance | Noiseless pickups and compensated radius, but less organic character. | Available here |
| Suhr Classic S | Boutique / S-Style | Passive SSCII noise reduction system, but significantly more expensive. | Product not listed |
| PRS Silver Sky | Classic Hybrid | Rounder touch radius (7.25"), modern approach but different aesthetic. | Available here |
| Fender Player II Strat | Mid-range | Very effective for the price, but does not have the steel block or the rigid case. | Available here |
| Ibanez AZ2204 (Prestige) | Studio Super-Strat | Extremely versatile (10 sounds), but doesn't have the pure Fender "quack". | Available here |
| Yamaha Pacifica 612VII | Value for money | Seymour Duncan pickups, but less iconic aesthetics. | Available here |
| Fender American Vintage II '61 | Historical Reissue | Authentic 1961, but less comfortable (radius 7.25"). | Available here |
| G&L Legacy (USA) | Leo Fender's Evolution | PTB (Dual Tone) system, but less stable resale value. | Product not listed |
| Music Man Cutlass RS | Modern Ergonomic | Oiled roasted maple neck, but with a more neutral sound character. | Available here |
| Fender American Performer | Entry-level USA | Greasebucket circuit, but lower-end bridges and pickups. | Available here |
History & Evolution
Introduced in 1954, the Stratocaster revolutionized music with its ergonomic "Contour Body" and three pickups. The American Professional II is the direct successor to the American Standard. It introduces major improvements requested by users: a cold-rolled steel vibrato block that enhances the harmonic response and "Push-Push" electronics that allow for a neck and bridge pickup combination (Telecaster-style), making this iteration the most versatile in the model's history.
Cultural References & Artists
Jimi Hendrix - Woodstock (1969) : L'utilisation révolutionnaire du vibrato sur Strat.
Eric Clapton - Slowhand (1977) : Le son "Blackie" qui a défini le blues-rock.
David Gilmour (Pink Floyd) - The Dark Side of the Moon (1973) : Des solos éthérés.
Stevie Ray Vaughan - Texas Flood (1983) : Le renouveau du Texas Blues sur Strat.
John Mayer - Where the Light Is (2008) : Maître moderne du son clair Stratocaster.
Nile Rodgers (Chic) - "Le Freak" (1978) : La Stratocaster au cœur du funk.
Jeff Beck - Wired (1976) : Utilisation virtuose et expressive du vibrato.
Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits) - "Sultans of Swing" (1978) : La clarté du jeu aux doigts.
The Edge (U2) - The Joshua Tree (1987) : Utilisation iconique du delay sur Strat.
Yngwie Malmsteen - Rising Force (1984) : Le néoclassique sur touche scallopée.
Cory Wong (Vulfpeck) - Le nouveau standard du funk rythmique moderne.
Bonnie Raitt - Nick of Time (1989) : Maîtresse du slide sur Stratocaster.
Hank Marvin (The Shadows) - "Apache" (1960) : Le son pur avec écho.
Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple) - "Smoke on the Water" (1972) : Un riff légendaire.
Buddy Holly - Pionnier de la Stratocaster dans le rock 'n' roll des années 50.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the purpose of the "Push-Push" button on this Stratocaster?
This switch adds the neck pickup to positions 1 and 2 of the selector switch. This allows you to combine the bridge and neck pickups (Telecaster style) or activate all three pickups simultaneously for a unique, full-bodied sound without a ground loop – an exclusive feature at Garage à Musique.
What does the cold-rolled steel vibrato block bring to the table?
Unlike standard alloy blocks, cold-rolled steel increases density and mass. This directly improves sustain , note clarity, and harmonic richness, giving each note superior sonic authority.
Is the "Deep C" handle comfortable for small hands?
Absolutely. It's designed to be thinner at the nut and gradually widen towards the body. Combined with the rounded fingerboard edges and the "Super-Natural" finish, it offers a smooth playing feel with no physical latency for the guitarist.
Do V-Mod II microphones eliminate background noise?
These are traditional single-coil pickups to preserve the authentic tone. While not noiseless, the high-quality shielding reduces RF interference. Positions 2 and 4 are wired to cancel hum.
What is the "Treble Bleed" circuit on the volume control?
This circuit preserves your high frequencies when you lower the guitar's volume. Your sound never becomes muddy or muddy, which is essential for precise gain control—an expertise valued at Garage à Musique.
Why are the frets "Narrow Tall"?
These frets are higher and narrower than "Medium Jumbo" frets. They allow for more precise intonation and greatly facilitate bends and vibratos with the left hand, offering surgical control.
Is the 2-point vibrato stable for tuning?
Yes, it offers much less friction than the vintage 6-screw system. Combined with the staggered tuners and bone nut, it ensures a return to perfect tuning even after expressive playing.
Is the sculpted sleeve heel a gimmick?
Not at all. By thinning the neck joint, Fender allows your hand to reach the 22nd fret without the usual obstruction of square neck plates. This is a tangible ergonomic benefit for lead guitarists.
Is the Deluxe case included with the guitar?
Yes, each American Professional II comes with its own Deluxe molded hard case. It offers complete thermal and physical protection, essential for musicians who travel to Quebec.
Does this guitar require phantom power?
No, the American Pro II Stratocaster is a 100% passive instrument. It requires no batteries, guaranteeing absolute reliability and a pure signal, true to Garage à Musique standards.
The Sound Authority: Why is the American Professional II Stratocaster indispensable?
The Stratocaster is the most influential guitar in history, but the American Professional II series is its most technically accomplished version. It addresses the practical challenges faced by musicians: the new cold-rolled steel vibrato block significantly improves sustain and harmonic response, while the intelligent "Push-Push" electronics allow the neck pickup to be permanently activated for tonal combinations previously reserved for modified models. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, this Stratocaster offers surgical reliability and versatility that adapts to all musical genres, positioning Garage à Musique as your trusted partner.
Full Technical Specifications
Body & Construction
| Characteristic | Details |
| Series | American Professional II |
| Body material | Alder or Roasted Pine depending on the finish |
| Body finish | Glossy polyurethane (Gloss Urethane) |
| Body shape | Stratocaster® |
| Configuration | SSS (Triple Single-Coil) |
Neck & Fingerboard
| Characteristic | Details |
| Handle material | Maple |
| Construction | 4 screws with sculpted heel (4-Bolt) |
| Handle finish | Satin "Super-Natural" (back), Glossy (head) |
| Handle profile | Deep "C" |
| Tuning fork | 25.5" (648 mm) |
| Touch | Maple or Rosewood |
| Touchdown radius | 9.5" (241 mm) |
| Number of frets | 22 |
| Type of frets | Narrow Tall |
| Nut | Bone |
| Nut width | 1.685" (42.8 mm) |
| Inlays | Black or white spots |
| Adjustment rod | Standard (Head fit) |
Electronics & Marine Hardware
| Characteristic | Details |
| Bridge Microphone | V-Mod II Single-Coil Strat® |
| Micro Central | V-Mod II Single-Coil Strat® |
| Micro Neck | V-Mod II Single-Coil Strat® |
| Controls | Master Volume (Treble Bleed), Tone 1 (Neck/Middle), Tone 2 (Bridge) |
| Selector | 5 positions (Blade) |
| Special Electronics | Push-Push on Tone 2 (Adds the neck pickup to positions 1 and 2) |
| Easel | Synchronized 2-point vibrato with steel saddles and cold-rolled steel block |
| Mechanics | Fender® Standard Cast/Sealed Staggered |
| Pickguard | 3-Ply (Mint Green, Black or Tortoiseshell depending on the model) |
| Buttons | "Aged White" Plastic |
| Hardware Finish | Nickel/Chrome |
Dimensions & Accessories
| Characteristic | Details |
| Ropes | Fender® USA 250L NPS (.009-.042 Gauges) |
| Case included | Deluxe Molded Hard Case |
| Origin | USA (Corona, California) |
Comparative Analysis
Based on consensus from Sound on Sound, MusicRadar and Gearspace.
| Alternative Product | Market Segment | Comparative Analysis | Available at Garage à Musique |
| Fender American Ultra Strat | Modern High Performance | Noiseless pickups and compensated radius, but less organic character. | Available here |
| Suhr Classic S | Boutique / S-Style | Passive SSCII noise reduction system, but significantly more expensive. | Product not listed |
| PRS Silver Sky | Classic Hybrid | Rounder touch radius (7.25"), modern approach but different aesthetic. | Available here |
| Fender Player II Strat | Mid-range | Very effective for the price, but does not have the steel block or the rigid case. | Available here |
| Ibanez AZ2204 (Prestige) | Studio Super-Strat | Extremely versatile (10 sounds), but doesn't have the pure Fender "quack". | Available here |
| Yamaha Pacifica 612VII | Value for money | Seymour Duncan pickups, but less iconic aesthetics. | Available here |
| Fender American Vintage II '61 | Historical Reissue | Authentic 1961, but less comfortable (radius 7.25"). | Available here |
| G&L Legacy (USA) | Leo Fender's Evolution | PTB (Dual Tone) system, but less stable resale value. | Product not listed |
| Music Man Cutlass RS | Modern Ergonomic | Oiled roasted maple neck, but with a more neutral sound character. | Available here |
| Fender American Performer | Entry-level USA | Greasebucket circuit, but lower-end bridges and pickups. | Available here |
History & Evolution
Introduced in 1954, the Stratocaster revolutionized music with its ergonomic "Contour Body" and three pickups. The American Professional II is the direct successor to the American Standard. It introduces major improvements requested by users: a cold-rolled steel vibrato block that enhances the harmonic response and "Push-Push" electronics that allow for a neck and bridge pickup combination (Telecaster-style), making this iteration the most versatile in the model's history.
Cultural References & Artists
Jimi Hendrix - Woodstock (1969) : L'utilisation révolutionnaire du vibrato sur Strat.
Eric Clapton - Slowhand (1977) : Le son "Blackie" qui a défini le blues-rock.
David Gilmour (Pink Floyd) - The Dark Side of the Moon (1973) : Des solos éthérés.
Stevie Ray Vaughan - Texas Flood (1983) : Le renouveau du Texas Blues sur Strat.
John Mayer - Where the Light Is (2008) : Maître moderne du son clair Stratocaster.
Nile Rodgers (Chic) - "Le Freak" (1978) : La Stratocaster au cœur du funk.
Jeff Beck - Wired (1976) : Utilisation virtuose et expressive du vibrato.
Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits) - "Sultans of Swing" (1978) : La clarté du jeu aux doigts.
The Edge (U2) - The Joshua Tree (1987) : Utilisation iconique du delay sur Strat.
Yngwie Malmsteen - Rising Force (1984) : Le néoclassique sur touche scallopée.
Cory Wong (Vulfpeck) - Le nouveau standard du funk rythmique moderne.
Bonnie Raitt - Nick of Time (1989) : Maîtresse du slide sur Stratocaster.
Hank Marvin (The Shadows) - "Apache" (1960) : Le son pur avec écho.
Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple) - "Smoke on the Water" (1972) : Un riff légendaire.
Buddy Holly - Pionnier de la Stratocaster dans le rock 'n' roll des années 50.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the purpose of the "Push-Push" button on this Stratocaster?
This switch adds the neck pickup to positions 1 and 2 of the selector switch. This allows you to combine the bridge and neck pickups (Telecaster style) or activate all three pickups simultaneously for a unique, full-bodied sound without a ground loop – an exclusive feature at Garage à Musique.
What does the cold-rolled steel vibrato block bring to the table?
Unlike standard alloy blocks, cold-rolled steel increases density and mass. This directly improves sustain , note clarity, and harmonic richness, giving each note superior sonic authority.
Is the "Deep C" handle comfortable for small hands?
Absolutely. It's designed to be thinner at the nut and gradually widen towards the body. Combined with the rounded fingerboard edges and the "Super-Natural" finish, it offers a smooth playing feel with no physical latency for the guitarist.
Do V-Mod II microphones eliminate background noise?
These are traditional single-coil pickups to preserve the authentic tone. While not noiseless, the high-quality shielding reduces RF interference. Positions 2 and 4 are wired to cancel hum.
What is the "Treble Bleed" circuit on the volume control?
This circuit preserves your high frequencies when you lower the guitar's volume. Your sound never becomes muddy or muddy, which is essential for precise gain control—an expertise valued at Garage à Musique.
Why are the frets "Narrow Tall"?
These frets are higher and narrower than "Medium Jumbo" frets. They allow for more precise intonation and greatly facilitate bends and vibratos with the left hand, offering surgical control.
Is the 2-point vibrato stable for tuning?
Yes, it offers much less friction than the vintage 6-screw system. Combined with the staggered tuners and bone nut, it ensures a return to perfect tuning even after expressive playing.
Is the sculpted sleeve heel a gimmick?
Not at all. By thinning the neck joint, Fender allows your hand to reach the 22nd fret without the usual obstruction of square neck plates. This is a tangible ergonomic benefit for lead guitarists.
Is the Deluxe case included with the guitar?
Yes, each American Professional II comes with its own Deluxe molded hard case. It offers complete thermal and physical protection, essential for musicians who travel to Quebec.
Does this guitar require phantom power?
No, the American Pro II Stratocaster is a 100% passive instrument. It requires no batteries, guaranteeing absolute reliability and a pure signal, true to Garage à Musique standards.