The Fender Telecaster Thinline is more than just a guitar— it was a riff on the classic Tele design with a twist of something special. And during the era when it launched, this was kind of a big deal. Why? Read on and we’ll explain.
But one of the biggest reasons we love this model is that it completely changes the sound you’d normally get from a Tele, adding in a more robust, warm tone with added depth.
For me, this is a big deal. I love Teles. The way they look, the neck, that distinctive twanginess. But the Thinline is a different beast entirely. It does all the usual Tele stuff we know and love, just with an added dimension of sonic brilliance that you simply do not get on standard Tele models.
Interested? Read on because there’s loads more to this oft-over-looked Tele variant. Especially if you’re into writing post-rock, shoegaze, or any kind of music that demands a richer tone palette.
Let’s dig in…
What is The Thinline Telecaster?
Born in the late 60s, it was Fender’s response to the hefty weight of its solid-body predecessor. With its semi-hollow build and iconic f-hole, the Thinline stands as a lighter, resonant variant of the Telecaster lineage.
Design and Features
- Semi-Hollow Body: The core attraction of the Telecaster Thinline is its semi-hollow body. Unlike the solid body of a standard Telecaster, the Thinline has hollow chambers which contribute to a warmer, rounder tone.
- F-Hole: The visual and sonic appeal of the Telecaster Thinline is further enhanced by its iconic F-hole on the top of the body. This design not only looks great but aids in the resonance and tone of the guitar.
- Traditional Tele Hardware: Despite its unique body structure, the Telecaster Thinline often retains traditional Telecaster hardware. This includes the classic Tele headstock, single or double cutaway design, and typical Telecaster pickups.
History and Evolution
1968-1972: The Early Years
Designed by the skilled luthier Roger Rossmeisl in 1968, the Thinline made its grand entrance in 1969. The goal? Cut down the Telecaster’s weight that had crept up due to scarce light ash wood. The initial design featured body cavities, marking a departure from the solid-body Telecaster.
In 1972, a significant update landed. The standard Telecaster pickups were swapped for a pair of Fender Wide Range humbucking pickups. Moreover, a bullet truss-rod and 3-bolt neck were introduced. All of which were pretty big changes.
Variants Over The Decades
Many versions of the Telecaster Thinline emerged over the years, with the 1969 and 1972 models being the most recognized. The 1969 variant houses two standard single-coil pickups within a mahogany body.
On the other hand, the 1972 model, inspired by the Fender Telecaster Deluxe, sports two Fender Wide Range humbucking pickups encased in a natural swamp ash body.
Notably, Thinline models have been crafted in Mexico and Japan under the Classic Series banner, later followed by the upscale American-made Factory Special Run (FSR) versions from the Fender Custom Shop in 2005 and 2013.
Notable Tele Thinline Models
- Fender Telecaster Thinline Deluxe: Features upgraded elements compared to the standard Thinline such as higher quality pickups and refined aesthetics.
- Fender Telecaster Thinline ’72: A reissue of the classic 1972 model known for its vintage aesthetic and dual humbucking pickups.
- Fender Telecaster Thinline Mexico: High-quality yet more affordable versions of the Thinline produced in Fender’s Mexican facilities.
- Fender Telecaster Thinline Vintera: Part of the Vintera series offering vintage-style models with period-correct specs, providing a retro look and classic Thinline tone.
- Squier Telecaster Thinline: A more budget-friendly option offered by Squier, Fender’s subsidiary, providing a similar aesthetic and sound at a lower price point.
- 1974 Fender Telecaster Thinline: A collectible classic from one of the Thinline series’ peak periods of popularity, exemplifying the vintage features of the Thinline series.
Spec Breakdown
Construction
- Body Type: Semi-hollow, with various woods like ash, alder, mahogany, and poplar.
- Neck Joint: Bolt-on neck, adhering to Fender’s tradition.
- Scale: 25.5″, although some Squier models feature a 24.75″ scale, akin to Gibson specs.
Hardware
- Bridge: Fixed through-body hardtail bridge.
- Pickups: Varies from 2 single-coil, 2 Fender Wide Range humbuckers, to a mix of 1 Fender Wide Range humbucker (neck) and 1 single-coil (bridge).
Telecaster Thinline vs Standard Telecaster
the tonal differences between a Standard and Thinline Telecaster are quite intriguing and can significantly influence a guitarist’s choice. Let’s delve into the tonal landscapes of these two iconic models.
When I pick up a Standard Telecaster, the first thing I notice is its bright, cutting tone. The solid body construction of the Standard Telecaster is a significant factor contributing to this sharp, clear tone.
It’s a sound that cuts through the mix with precision, making it a favorite for many guitarists in country, blues, and rock genres.
The traditional single-coil pickups on the Standard Telecaster further accentuate this crisp and articulate sound, giving it a distinct character.
On the other hand, the Thinline Telecaster unfolds a different sonic story. The moment I strum the strings, the warmer, rounder tone emanating from its semi-hollow body is apparent.
This design allows for more acoustic resonance, contributing to a warmer and fuller sound compared to the standard model.
The iconic F-hole on the Thinline is not just aesthetically pleasing; it also adds to the resonance, providing a slightly more open, airy tone. It’s a tone that beckons a calling from genres requiring a warmer or more acoustic-tinged tone, like jazz or folk.
Now, why does this matter? Well, the genre of music you’re venturing into, and your playing style can significantly dictate your choice between these two models.
While both models are versatile, the Thinline might cater more to those seeking a warm resonance. Stuff like ambient music, indie rock. But it can and does sound immense with a noise gate and some fuzz.
If you’re venturing into territories that demand a bright, piercing tone that can cut through the mix, the Standard Telecaster is your comrade in arms.
The sharp, electric tonality of the Standard Telecaster is something that can define your sound in genres like country or rock.
PROS
- Weight: The Thinline’s semi-hollow design significantly reduces weight, making it a comfortable choice for long gigs.
- Resonance: Its semi-hollow body yields a warm, resonant tone, setting it apart from the bright twang of the standard Telecaster.
- Versatility: With different pickup configurations across models, the Thinline provides a broader sonic palette.
CONS
- Feedback: The semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at high volumes.
- Less Attack: The Thinline might lack the sharp attack that a solid-body Telecaster delivers.
Artists That Use Fender Telecaster Thinline
The Fender Telecaster Thinline has long been a choice for myriad iconic musicians across diverse genres. Its unique tonal qualities have made it a beloved instrument among players looking for that sweet spot between the sharpness of a solid body and the warmth of a hollow body.
Here’s a closer look at some of the guitarists who have embraced the Telecaster Thinline and the wide array of genres it has been used in over the years.
Radiohead
In the world of indie rock, few bands are as revered as Radiohead. Both Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood have been known to strum the strings of a Telecaster Thinline.
- Thom Yorke:
- His penchant for atmospheric sounds finds a companion in the Thinline’s resonant semi-hollow body, which provides a rich sonic palette for his haunting melodies.
- Jonny Greenwood:
- Known for his textural guitar work, the Thinline’s versatile tone has been a key tool in crafting Radiohead’s signature soundscapes.
Brad Paisley
Venture into the heartland of country music, and you’ll find Brad Paisley wielding a Telecaster Thinline with finesse.
- Versatile Country Twang: Paisley’s playing showcases the Thinline’s ability to deliver the classic Telecaster twang but with a touch of acoustic warmth, making it a perfect fit for his blend of traditional and modern country music.
Crossing Genre Boundaries
The allure of the Telecaster Thinline doesn’t stop with indie and country. Its versatility has found favor in jazz, blues, and rock circuits as well.
- Jazz and Blues: The warm resonance of the Thinline’s semi-hollow body is a match for the expressive needs of jazz and blues musicians.
- Rock: On the rock stage, the Thinline can cut through the mix with its bright, clear tones, proving its worth in a genre where being heard is paramount.
Key Takeaways
The Fender Telecaster Thinline is a remarkable blend of history, innovation, and sonic versatility. Its journey from a weight-reduction experiment to a cherished model among varied musicians is a testament to Fender’s enduring quest for musical excellence.
Whether it’s the vintage allure or the modern iterations, the Thinline holds a unique spot in the panethon of guitars and with inexpensive Squier models retailing for in and around $449, it has never been easier to try one out and see how it plays.
Or, if you want to try out a dirt cheap Tele that sounds utterly brilliant, be sure to check out Harley Benton’s excellent Tele lineup of guitars.
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