The other key detail: It would be made in the U.S.A. To make sure no one missed the point, the new guitar would be called “American Standard.” Conspicuous designation of the U.S. origin of certain models or whole series would be a regular fixture of Fender strategies from now on. (American Standards built in 1994 bear a red, white, and blue medallion on the headstock, commemorating the instrument’s 40th anniversary. Also, the likes of Rickenbacker, Gretsch, National and Epiphone, which have increased less quickly until recently, now seem to be making up for lost time. You don’t mess with an icon. For the Gibson lovers, I'd consider a '54 to '56 Les Paul Gold Top (I think you might be lucky to pick up a '57) or a Custom. If you have $5,000 or $6,000 left, then a good Fender Tweed Bassman or Twin would fit the bill nicely. A catholic choice, I know, but these guitars have consistently been in demand, and I see no change to this in the near or far-off future. Like the electric guitar, the vibrations of the string cause an electrical signal to be created in sensors called pickups, which are amplified and played through a speaker. The change to the guitar form factor and the addition of frets made the instrument much easier to play. Fender's Precision Bass was first sold in 1951, with the single split pickup design that is still widely available (both Fender Precision basses and innumerable copies) being introduced in 1957. I’m sure the new Stevie Ray Vaughn Tribute Strat will be a great success, and we have already had several people asking for more information. Invented by a California radio repairman, the "Strat" became an instant staple for rock 'n' roll musicians, starting with Holly, and won iconic status when Hendrix vaunted his on stage as he famously performed The Star Spangled Banner at the 1969 Woodstock concert. On the other hand, you can’t afford to stagnate. Case Flying Guitar V.