1. The farthest wall of guitars
features examples from Fender’s
many American series—along with
explanations of the difference
between American Vintage, American
Standard, American Deluxe,
and American Special lines—and
photos and posters representing
associated musicians. The top third
of every wall lists songs written or
recorded with Fender instruments,
from the early days of rock onward.
2. There are a few displays of
Fender signature artist models,
which, like every guitar not encased
in glass, can be picked up
and played by visitors. This wall
features John Mayer, Robert Cray,
Eric Johnson, and Jimmie Vaughan
Strats, a GE Smith Tele, a Sting
Precision Bass, and a Roger Waters
Jazz Bass. Jeff Beck, Stevie Ray
Vaughan, and Mark Knopfler instruments
are in the glass display case.
3. In addition to the signature
models hanging on the walls, the
main floor has standing displays for
artists in all genres, like this tribute
to The Boss. Fender amps are also
on display throughout the main
floor, with playable versions in the
sound room.
4. Previewed first at the Fender
Visitor Center events, this 5-watt
Eric Clapton Vibro-Champ is one of
three new amps bearing Slowhand’s
stamp of approval. The line features
the 12-watt Tremolux and the 40-
watt Twinolux. All three are handwired
and feature tube-bias tremolo
circuits and a switchable power
attenuator, per Clapton’s request.
5. The EVH brand has Wolfgang
guitars on display, in addition to this
painstaking replica of Eddie’s most
famous axe. The 2007 Custom Shop
replica has every detail, down to the
year of the quarter and the loosely
hanging trem bar.
6. The Visitors Center does not limit
the displays to Fender instruments.
Also included are displays of the other
brands under the Fender Musical
Instrument Corporation banner, like
this wall of Jacksons. The models on
display include production and artist
signature models, as well as Custom
Shop renditions like the replica of
Randy Rhoads’ Concorde V.
7. Of course, if visitors want to
leave the center with something
to remember the trip by (and can’t
afford that dream guitar just yet),
Fender has plenty of swag to
choose from. Shirts, books, art,
strings, cables, and other accessories
are among the items visitors
can take home with them.