However, with prices on the increase, most sixties guitars are too expensive, leaving only Fender Duo Sonics, Mustangs or Gibson Melody Makers within their budget. Introduced in 1954 and now recognized as the best electric guitar ever designed, Leo Fender's Stratocaster is one of the 20th century's most influential inventions. 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. The acoustic bass guitar is similar to an acoustic guitar with a large, hollow body that is clearly audible without amplification. 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. He so improved the clarity of the amplified vibrating string that he gave almost every style of music played on the guitar a means to sound better. For five decades, finicky musicians made pilgrimages to Leo's R&D labs to discuss their musical frustrations and seek better ways for guitars to function. The problem is getting a good, steady supply, and I think it is inevitable that high-end pieces will continue to increase. Custom Colors are also very popular, with Fiesta Red, Sonic Blue and Olympic White being among the favourites. Classical Guitar History.