Fender Custom Shop GT11 Stratocaster Electric Guitar User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Fender Custom Shop GT11 Stratocaster Electric Guitar. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper use and care of your instrument.

The Fender Custom Shop GT11 Stratocaster is a premium electric guitar designed for exceptional playability and tone. It features a solid alder body, a maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard, and three hand-wound single-coil pickups. The instrument incorporates modern hardware, including an RSD Custom Shop tremolo and vintage-style staggered tuners, while retaining the feel of a classic, well-loved Stratocaster.

Product Overview

Figure 1: Front view of the Fender Custom Shop GT11 Stratocaster Electric Guitar in Sonic Blue. The guitar features a light blue body, a mint green pickguard, three white single-coil pickups, chrome hardware including a tremolo bridge, and white control knobs for volume and tone.

Key Features:

• Solid Alder Body for resonant tone.
• Maple Neck with Rosewood Fingerboard (11-inch radius) for comfortable playability.
• Three Hand-Wound Sweet '64 Single-Coil Pickups for classic Stratocaster sound.
• RSD Custom Shop Tremolo Bridge for stable tuning and expressive vibrato.
• Vintage-Style Staggered Tuners for improved tuning stability.
• Journeyman Relic finish for a vintage, broken-in feel.

Setup

1. Unpacking and Inspection:

Carefully remove the guitar from its packaging. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage.

2. Initial Tuning:

Tune the guitar to standard EADGBe tuning using a reliable electronic tuner. Due to temperature and humidity changes during transit, the guitar may require several tuning adjustments as it acclimates to its new environment.

3. String Action and Intonation:

The guitar is set up at the factory for optimal playability. However, personal preference and environmental factors may necessitate adjustments. If you experience buzzing, high action, or intonation issues, consult a qualified guitar technician for professional setup. Instructions for minor adjustments are typically found in a separate technical guide.

4. Connecting to an Amplifier:

Use a high-quality instrument cable to connect the guitar's output jack to your amplifier's input. Ensure the amplifier is turned off or on standby before connecting or disconnecting the cable to prevent sudden loud noises or potential damage to equipment.

Operating the Guitar

1. Controls Overview:

• Volume Knob: Controls the overall output level of the guitar. Turn clockwise to increase volume, counter-clockwise to decrease.
• Tone Knobs: The GT11 Stratocaster typically features two tone knobs. One controls the tone for the neck pickup, and the other controls the tone for the middle pickup. Turning these knobs clockwise brightens the tone, while turning them counter-clockwise rolls off high frequencies for a warmer sound.
• 5-Way Pickup Selector Switch: This switch allows you to select different pickup configurations:
  1. Position 1 (Bridge): Activates the bridge pickup for a bright, cutting tone.
  2. Position 2 (Bridge & Middle): Combines the bridge and middle pickups for a quacky, articulate sound.
  3. Position 3 (Middle): Activates the middle pickup for a balanced, clear tone.
  4. Position 4 (Middle & Neck): Combines the middle and neck pickups for a warm, bell-like tone.
  5. Position 5 (Neck): Activates the neck pickup for a full, warm, and smooth tone.

2. Using the Tremolo System:

The RSD Custom Shop Tremolo allows for pitch modulation. Gently depress the tremolo arm to lower the pitch of the notes. Release the arm to return to original pitch. Excessive or aggressive use may affect tuning stability. Ensure the tremolo springs are properly tensioned for desired feel and stability.

3. Playing Techniques:

Explore various playing techniques such as strumming, fingerpicking, bending notes, and using vibrato to discover the full sonic capabilities of your GT11 Stratocaster. Experiment with amplifier settings and effects pedals to further shape your sound.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning:

After each use, wipe down the strings and body with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth to remove sweat, oils, and dust. For the body, a guitar-specific polish can be used periodically. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.

2. String Replacement:

Strings should be replaced regularly, depending on playing frequency and personal preference. Old strings can sound dull and affect intonation. When replacing strings, change them one at a time to maintain neck tension. Use high-quality electric guitar strings of your preferred gauge.

3. Fretboard Care:

The rosewood fretboard should be conditioned periodically (e.g., every 6-12 months) with a fretboard conditioner to prevent drying and cracking. Clean the fretboard before conditioning.

4. Humidity and Temperature:

Store your guitar in its case when not in use to protect it from extreme changes in temperature and humidity. Ideal conditions are typically around 45-55% relative humidity and 70-75°F (21-24°C). Extreme fluctuations can cause wood to expand or contract, leading to structural issues.

5. Hardware Inspection:

Periodically check all screws, nuts, and bolts for tightness, especially on the tuners, bridge, and strap buttons. Do not overtighten.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Fender Custom Shop instruments are covered by a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. For specific warranty terms, registration, and support, please refer to the official Fender website or contact Fender Customer Service. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical assistance or service, it is recommended to contact an authorized Fender service center or a qualified guitar technician.

Note: Unauthorized modifications or repairs may void your warranty.