Fender’s player II Series Gets a Metal Revamp: Introducing the Limited-Edition FSR Advanced Models
Fender has elevated its Player II electric guitar lineup wiht a striking metal-inspired redesign, unveiling two exclusive limited-edition FSR models dubbed the “Player II Advanced.”
A New Era for the Player Series
Launched last year, the Player II series succeeded the immensely popular Player line, serving as the most affordable entry point for musicians eager to own a Fender guitar until the Standard series debuted at NAMM 2025.
This new iteration introduces a host of enhancements, including rosewood fretboards, rolled fingerboard edges, and fresh finishes. However, the Player II Advanced models take it a step further, transforming the classic Stratocaster and Telecaster into versatile machines tailored for metal and rock enthusiasts.
Upgraded Electronics and Hardware
The most meaningful upgrades in the FSR Player II Advanced models lie in their electronics and hardware. Both guitars are equipped with Seymour duncan humbuckers, with the Stratocaster featuring a hardtail bridge—a rare but highly coveted option among contemporary players.
Additionally, both models boast ebony fingerboards. The Stratocaster showcases an oversized headstock reminiscent of the 1970s, diverging from the traditional Player II design. The Strat offers a hot-rodded HSS pickup configuration, while the Telecaster features a powerful dual-humbucker setup.
Specifications That Impress
For the Stratocaster, a Seymour Duncan JB TB-4 bridge humbucker is paired with two Seymour Duncan Custom Flat Strat SSL-6 single-coils. Notable features include a 12” fingerboard radius,a modern C neck profile,a sleek black hardtail string-through-body bridge,and locking tuners.
On the other hand, the telecaster is equipped with a JB TB-4 and a l’59 SH-1N humbucker, along with a six-saddle hardtail bridge. Both guitars share the same playability enhancements, including a 12” fingerboard radius, locking tuners, and 22 jumbo frets.
Exclusive Finishes and Availability
Currently, the Player II Advanced Strat and Tele are exclusively available through UK retailers Andertons and GuitarGuitar. Andertons offers the Strat in Satin daphne Blue and the Tele in Satin Ferrari Yellow and Black, while GuitarGuitar features an Arctic White Strat and a Black tele.
It remains uncertain weather these models will be available in the United States, but given their impressive specifications, demand for the Player II Advanced is expected to be high.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
Both models are priced at £949 each (approximately $1,230). Lee Anderton, in a demo video, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I really like them. I like the bigger headstock and great pickup selection. Excellent choice, Fender.”
For more details, check out andertons and GuitarGuitar.
