Used 2019 Fender Rarities Flame Koa Top Stratocaster

Gold Foils and Koa: A Killer Combo

We all sorts of guitars at Wildwood, but even if I wrack my brain I can't remember ever seeing a koa-topped Stratocaster with gold-foil single-coils and a Filter'Tron in the bridge positions. The pickups are uber-cool (more on them in a second), but before we get into tone talk let's take a moment and marvel at how beautifully the dark koa top complements the lighter ash body. The gold accents on the pickups look stately and elegant against the backdrop created by the white pickguard and the maple fretboard, too.

Speaking of gold foils, these Tim Shaw-designed pickups give this Strat a voice unlike any other in Fender's USA line. The single-coils are hot '59s, and though they certainly have plenty of classic Strat qualities (smooth, warm, vocal, chime-y), they have a bit of Teisco edge to them. The high-end cuts more, and the midrange has more of a serrated edge--think Ry Cooder and you'll get a rough idea of how they sound. The bridge Filter'Tron is also a lot of fun because it delivers a bit more twang, sparkle, quack, and jangle than a typical humbucker.

To top it all off, the Flame Koa Top Strat from Fender's Rarities Collection has a European maple neck with a smooth satin finish and a modern 9.5" radius with narrow-tall frets. This configuration suits most playing styles exceedingly well, as it offers fast feel and makes bending and chording a little easier.

We're proud to showcase this beautiful guitar, and we know its aesthetic and sonic beauty will inspire you to reach new heights on your fretboard journey!

Condition Report

This Rarities Collection koa-topped Strat is in minty-fresh condition; in fact, it almost looks new. It has no cosmetic issues to report, and it comes with its original hardshell case.