Fender 70th Anniversary USA Broadcaster MN Blonde inc Original Tweed Hard Case (2020)

This high quality immaculate Fender 70th Anniversary USA Broadcaster, released in 2020, is a meticulously crafted tribute to one of the most historically significant electric guitars ever created. This limited-edition instrument celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Broadcaster, the guitar that would eventually become the iconic Telecaster. A key element in its vintage appeal and sonic character is its one-piece maple neck, finished in a smooth, glossy nitrocellulose lacquer. This neck is not just a structural component; it’s a vital part of the guitar’s identity, contributing significantly to its playability, tone, and overall aesthetic.

The 70th Anniversary Broadcaster features a ” ’50 Broadcaster ‘U’ ” neck profile. This is a substantial, full-bodied shape that harks back to the early days of the instrument. Unlike slimmer, more modern neck profiles, the ’50s “U” provides a significant amount of wood to grip, offering a comfortable and supportive feel for players who prefer a more traditional playing experience. This chunkier profile can contribute to a fuller, more resonant tone, as there is more mass for the vibrations of the strings to transfer through. While some players with smaller hands might find it takes some getting used to, many appreciate the solid feel and the leverage it provides for bending notes.

Complementing the neck profile is the one-piece maple construction of the neck and fretboard. Maple is a dense hardwood known for its bright, snappy tonal characteristics. As a neck wood, it provides excellent stability and sustain. The glossy nitrocellulose lacquer finish not only gives the neck a classic, vintage look but also allows the wood to breathe and resonate more freely compared to thicker polyurethane finishes. This contributes to the guitar’s overall lively and articulate sound. The finish also ages gracefully over time, developing a desirable patina that adds to the instrument’s vintage character.

The fretboard of the 70th Anniversary Broadcaster has a vintage-correct 7.25″ radius. This is a more rounded radius compared to the flatter radii found on many modern guitars. The tighter curve of a 7.25″ radius can feel particularly comfortable for playing chords, as it more closely matches the natural curvature of the fretting hand. However, some players accustomed to flatter radii might find that it requires a slightly different technique for bending notes cleanly without the notes “choking out.” The fretboard is adorned with 21 vintage-tall frets, which are narrower and taller than modern medium-jumbo frets. These frets contribute to the vintage feel and can make bending notes easier for some players, as there is less friction due to their narrow width.

The nut of the 70th Anniversary Broadcaster is made of bone, a traditional material prized for its tonal qualities and durability. Bone nuts contribute to the clear and resonant transfer of string vibrations to the neck, enhancing sustain and clarity, particularly on open strings. The nut width is 1.630″ (41.4 mm), a standard vintage Fender specification that feels comfortable for a wide range of players.

The headstock of the 70th Anniversary Broadcaster proudly displays the classic Fender Broadcaster decal, a detail that underscores the guitar’s historical significance. The vintage-style tuners with the Fender logo further enhance the period-correct aesthetic and provide reliable tuning stability. The truss rod, essential for adjusting the neck’s relief, is accessible at the heel, a feature typical of vintage Fender instruments. While this requires removing the neck for adjustments, it is part of the guitar’s authentic design.

In terms of playability, the combination of the ’50s “U” neck profile, the 7.25″ radius fretboard, and the vintage-tall frets offers a distinctly vintage feel. Players who appreciate the substantial grip of an older neck style and the comfortable chord-playing of a rounder fretboard will find this neck very appealing. While modern players accustomed to flatter radii and thinner necks might need some adjustment, the overall feel is one of solid, traditional craftsmanship.

Sonically, the maple neck contributes to the Broadcaster’s bright and articulate tone. Maple is known for its ability to transmit high frequencies effectively, resulting in a clear and punchy sound. This complements the ash body and the Custom Shop-designed Original Blackguard pickups, which deliver the quintessential Telecaster twang and bite. The neck’s resonance and sustain are enhanced by the one-piece construction and the thin nitrocellulose lacquer finish, allowing the guitar to sing with a vibrant and lively character.

The aesthetic of the blonde maple neck against the Blackguard Blonde finish of the ash body is a classic Fender look. The translucent blonde finish allows the natural grain of the ash to show through, while the maple neck provides a contrasting brightness. The black phenolic pickguard further accentuates the vintage vibe, creating an instrument that is as visually appealing as it is sonically rich.

In conclusion, the blonde maple neck on the Fender 70th Anniversary USA Broadcaster is a crucial element in recreating the magic of the original Broadcaster. Its ’50s “U” profile offers a substantial vintage feel, while the one-piece maple construction and glossy nitrocellulose lacquer finish contribute to a bright, articulate tone and a classic aesthetic. The 7.25″ radius fretboard and vintage-tall frets further enhance the vintage playing experience. For players seeking an authentic recreation of a pivotal moment in guitar history, the 70th Anniversary Broadcaster’s neck is a testament to Fender’s commitment to capturing the essence of the original.

• Brand : Fender
• Model : 70th Anniversary USA Broadcaster
• Colour : Blackguard Blonde
• Finish : Nitrocellulose
• Body Shape : Telecaster
• Body : Ash
• Neck : Maple
• Neck Profile : 50 Broadcaster U
• Fingerboard : Maple
• Fingerboard Inlays : Black Dots
• Fingerboard Radius : 7.25″
• Nut Width : 1.630″
• Nut Material : Bone
• Scale Length : 25.5″
• Frets : 21, Vintage Tall
• Bridge Pickup : Fender Custom Shop Hand-Wound ’50-’51 Blackguard
• Neck Pickup : Fender Custom Shop Hand-Wound ’50-’51 Blackguard
• Controls : 3-Way Selector Switch, Tone, Volume
• No. of Strings : 6 (Nickel)
• Case : Original Fender 70th Anniversary Tweed Case