Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar. Please read these instructions carefully to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your instrument.

Setup

1. Unboxing and Inspection

Carefully remove the guitar from its Deluxe Molded Hardshell Case. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Ensure all accessories, such as the tremolo arm and adjustment wrenches, are present.

2. Initial Tuning

Your guitar comes strung with Fender USA 250L Nickel Plated Steel (.009-.042) strings. Use an electronic tuner to tune the guitar to standard EADGBe tuning. Due to temperature and humidity changes during transit, minor tuning adjustments will be necessary.

3. Connecting to an Amplifier

Connect a standard 1/4" (6.35mm) instrument cable from the guitar's output jack to your amplifier's input. Ensure the amplifier is turned off or at a low volume before connecting or disconnecting the cable to prevent sudden loud noises.

Figure 1: Front view of the Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar. This image highlights the Solar Flare finish, the HSS pickup configuration (Humbucker-Single-Single), the volume and tone controls, and the synchronized tremolo bridge. The maple fretboard is also visible.

Operating Controls

The American Ultra II Stratocaster HSS features intuitive controls for shaping your sound.

• Volume Knob: Controls the overall output level of the guitar. Turn clockwise to increase volume, counter-clockwise to decrease.
• Tone Knobs: Two tone knobs are provided. Typically, one controls the tone for the neck and middle pickups, and the other for the bridge pickup. These allow you to adjust the treble response. Turn clockwise for brighter tones, counter-clockwise for warmer, darker tones.
• 5-Way Pickup Selector Switch: This switch allows you to select different pickup combinations:
  1. Position 1 (Bridge): Activates the bridge humbucking pickup for a powerful, bright sound.
  2. Position 2 (Bridge & Middle): Combines the bridge humbucker and middle single-coil pickup for a balanced, articulate tone.
  3. Position 3 (Middle): Activates the middle single-coil pickup for a classic Stratocaster sound.
  4. Position 4 (Middle & Neck): Combines the middle and neck single-coil pickups for a quacky, expressive tone.
  5. Position 5 (Neck): Activates the neck single-coil pickup for warm, round tones.
• Synchronized Tremolo System: The tremolo arm can be inserted into the bridge to allow for pitch bending effects. Adjust spring tension in the back cavity for desired feel.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

After each use, wipe down the strings and body with a clean, soft cloth to remove sweat and oils. For the body, use a guitar-specific polish sparingly. For the maple fretboard, a dry cloth is usually sufficient. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

2. String Replacement

Strings should be replaced regularly, depending on usage. Replace one string at a time to maintain neck tension. Use high-quality strings of the same gauge (e.g., .009-.042). Stretch new strings gently to help them settle and hold tune.

3. Fretboard Care

The maple fretboard is durable. Periodically, you may clean it with a slightly damp cloth, ensuring to dry it immediately. Avoid excessive moisture.

4. Bridge and Intonation

The synchronized tremolo bridge may require occasional adjustment for intonation or action. If you are unfamiliar with these adjustments, it is recommended to consult a qualified guitar technician.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound:
  • Check if the guitar cable is securely plugged into both the guitar and amplifier.
  • Ensure the amplifier is turned on and its volume is not at zero.
  • Verify the guitar's volume knob is turned up.
  • Test with a different cable or amplifier if possible.
• Buzzing or Fret Noise:
  • Ensure proper finger placement directly behind the fret.
  • Check for worn strings; replace if necessary.
  • Humidity changes can affect neck relief. If buzzing persists, professional setup may be required.
• Poor Tuning Stability:
  • Ensure strings are properly stretched after replacement.
  • Check tuning machine screws for tightness.
  • Excessive use of the tremolo system can affect tuning.
  • Verify strings are not binding at the nut or bridge saddles.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Fender musical instruments are covered by a limited warranty. For detailed information regarding your warranty coverage, please refer to the official Fender website or contact Fender customer support. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical assistance, parts, or service, please visit the official Fender support page or contact their customer service department.

Fender Official Website: www.fender.com