In a perfect evolution of form, the American Standard series of instruments have adapted over time to continually meet the needs of every type of musician by relying on their input to fuel improvements. Rooted deeply in tradition, Fender instruments have stood the test of time and become American icons by continually responding to the evolving needs and desires of musicians while exceeding their expectations.

These classic American Fender instruments - the Stratocaster, Telecaster, Precision Bass and Jazz Bass - have sonically and visually influenced every genre of popular music for decades, including rock, blues, country, western swing, rockabilly, roots rock, punk rock, surf rock, hard rock, metal, Motown, progressive, jazz, funk, and grunge. Rock music itself, with all its myriad sub- genres, has evolved along the lines of these instruments.

"Rock 'n' roll history does not follow a straight line," said Justin Norvell, senior marketing manager for Fender electric guitars. "Every generation has had its artists that made that line take a sharp turn in a new direction, whether it be the fuzz-drenched psychedelia of the '60s, the angular punk of the '70s or the sturm und drang of the "Seattle Sound" in the '90s. At the forefront of all of those evolutions was Fender. Fender is ready for the next batch of players who will be creating and discovering that next sound."

Following several years of research, experimentation, interviews with musicians, and isolated variable examination, Fender Musical Instruments Corp. has unveiled the new Fender American Standard series of guitars for 2008. With detailed improvements to the Stratocaster, Telecaster, Precision Bass and Jazz Bass guitars, this iteration of the American Standard series offers superior tone, performance, durability, and style, while retaining the quality and design that have made Fender instruments popular for more than half a century.

Relying on a reverse-engineering approach, Fender utilized precision tools and expert ears to isolate the elements that make their instruments so great: tone, comfort, playability and durability. Fender's goal - to create instruments that inspire today's players to "make history" with their music, from country to punk, blues to funk, and everything in between.

Significant improvements to the electric guitars include a redesigned bridge, new bent-steel saddles with elongated string slots, a new neck and body finish, and a Fender-exclusive high-tech molded case. Similarly, the bass guitars feature a new neck and body finish, a Fender-exclusive high-tech molded case, lightweight tuners, height- leveled pole pieces, and the new HMV high-mass vintage bridge. And for the first time, Fender will be offering the traditional Precision Bass in a five-string passive version, taking the classic platform to a new level.

Website: http://www.fender.com