Shergold telstar standard st14 £379

Upholding the craft of the luthier, Patrick James Eggle’s latest build is another reason to look closer to home if you want the best

During its long history, Fender has navigated several tricky turning points, but 1965 marks for some the start of a decline from the standards set by Leo’s original company. Is that view still justified?

This latest wave of Fender’s American Ultra models continues to cater for the modern player but with an old-looking vintage vibe. We just can’t escape the past!

Not only does this 1969 Tele illustrate Fender’s slowly changing post-Leo period, it also documents a lot of modding. Dave Burrluck should know – he was there!

After some considerable time, the Les Paul Custom returns to Gibson USA’s production line-up in classic 70s style, while the lesser Marauder is celebrated with a limited throwback design. Time to investigate!

THE ULTRA AND Ultra II succeeded Fender’s Elite range as the manufacturer’s highest-end California-made production six-strings, with its most contemporary specs, including neck heel and rear body cont