The Eric Johnson Stratocaster, affectionately known as the "Black Beauty," has captivated guitarists worldwide with its stunning aesthetics and exceptional tone. However, there's another Eric Johnson Strat that's equally as captivating but often overshadowed - the Stratocaster in Tropical Turquoise.
Eric Johnson's Stratocaster: A Brief History
Eric Johnson, a Texas-based guitarist known for his exceptional technique and versatility, has been a Fender endorsee since the 1980s. His signature Stratocaster, introduced in 1996, was an instant hit among guitarists. The "Black Beauty," as it came to be known, featured a sleek, black finish, a scalloped neck, and a unique pickup configuration that set it apart from standard Strats.
The Tropical Turquoise Variant
While the Black Beauty grabbed most of the attention, Fender also released a less talked about variant - the Eric Johnson Stratocaster in Tropical Turquoise. This guitar, with its vibrant, eye-catching finish, offered a unique alternative to the more subdued Black Beauty.
What Makes the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise Special?
A Unique Finish
The most striking feature of the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise is its finish. The vibrant turquoise color, reminiscent of tropical seas, is a stark contrast to the traditional Stratocaster finishes. This bold color choice adds a touch of uniqueness and personality to the guitar.
Scalloped Neck
Like its black counterpart, the Tropical Turquoise Eric Johnson Strat features a scalloped neck. This unique neck profile, with its scooped-out areas, allows for easier access to the higher frets, making it ideal for players who frequently use the entire length of the fretboard.
Custom Pickup Configuration
The Eric Johnson Stratocaster, in both its black and turquoise variants, features a unique pickup configuration. The guitar sports a DiMarzio HS-3 humbucker in the bridge position, a DiMarzio HS-3 single-coil in the middle, and a DiMarzio HS-3 mini humbucker in the neck. This combination provides a wide range of tones, from warm and mellow to aggressive and cutting.
Other Features
Other features of the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise include a one-piece maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard, a vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge, and a set of locking tuners for improved tuning stability.
Sound and Playability
The Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise offers a unique blend of tone and playability. The scalloped neck provides excellent access to the higher frets, making it ideal for players who like to explore the entire fretboard. The custom pickup configuration offers a wide range of tones, from warm and mellow to aggressive and cutting. Whether you're playing clean jazz lines or distorted rock riffs, the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise can handle it all.
Why Choose the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise?
If you're looking for a Stratocaster that stands out from the crowd, the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise is an excellent choice. Its unique finish, scalloped neck, and custom pickup configuration set it apart from standard Strats. Whether you're a fan of Eric Johnson's playing or just looking for a Strat with a unique twist, the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turququoise is worth considering.
In the vast world of Stratocasters, the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise may not be the most well-known, but it's certainly one of the most unique and captivating. With its vibrant finish, scalloped neck, and custom pickup configuration, it offers a compelling alternative to the more traditional Stratocasters. If you're looking for a guitar that combines exceptional tone, playability, and a touch of personality, the Eric Johnson Strat Tropical Turquoise is definitely worth a closer look.
