series · electric/bass

American Performer

American Performer is Fender's entry point to instruments built in the USA, covering Strats, Teles, offsets and basses from roughly a thousand dollars upward.

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Why it matters

American Performer is the least expensive way into a new US-made Fender, and it has largely taken the place the old American Standard held in the range. Yosemite pickups and a Greasebucket tone circuit are the features that run across the series, along with a Modern C neck profile. Stepping up to American Professional changes pickups, hardware and finish options rather than the country of origin.

Note

Mid-tier US line with Yosemite pickups and Greasebucket tone circuit.

Specifications

• Scale length: unknown
• Neck shape: Modern C (0.810″–0.910″)

Before you buy

• The series covers both guitars and basses, so check the model before comparing
• A Greasebucket circuit behaves differently from a standard tone control
• Play an American Professional too before assuming the saving is worthwhile

Other opinions

One video is one opinion. These are the other videos for this entry, most-viewed first. The order is the view count, not a ranking of ours.

• YouTube video Jon is just TOO LouD!! · 2025-06 · 12,673 views

  “Fender American Performer Stratocaster Electric Guitar RW FB, Arctic White Born in Corona, California, the American Performer Stratocaster delivers the exceptional tone and feel you expect from an authentic Fender -…”

  In-depth playing demo of the Fender American Performer Stratocaster.

• YouTube video Sam Ash Direct · 2023-02 · 3,387 views

  “The Stratocaster you know and love has been steadily refined over the years until Fender came to this beautiful iteration.”

  Overview of the American Performer Stratocaster's features and tones.

Sources

• fender.com