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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Mon Jun 04, 2012 4:47 am
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Graon wrote:
Toppscore wrote:
cnsky54 wrote:
Congrats! I think probably not a 'first' year - Xhefri thought 90 was the first year, but mine is an '89, so who knows when they actually appeared on the market. You have the same bridge as mine, the standard 2-point Fender, not a FR. Wilkinson nut, locking tuners, beautiful body. Should give you a lot of joy for years!
You have a 1989 Ultra! Cool! Thanks for verifying a few things.
I am looking forward to all of the wiring, toggle & 5-way switch possibiliites for making noise - tone - sounds :lol: How do you like your Fender Ultra's toggle switch and the different 5-way wiring? Toppscore :)
No, actually your guitar is from either 1990 or 1991 (=> http://www.guitardaterproject.org/fender.aspx). The only way to be sure is to unscrew the neck et check the date stamped ont the neck and/or the one on the body.
My Stratocaster Plus has a number like E8#### but was made between april and may 1989 :

Graon. Who's guitar are you discussing?
If you are discussing Cnsky54's Ultra claim for 1989, then all below is not related.
I did not notice Cnsky54 gave a serial number for Guitar Dater to check out . . . . PLMK

I posted my 1990 serial number as a 1990. So, your comment leaves me confused
as to who's guitar you focused upon. PLMK. Thank you. Toppscore 8)

My "new-to-be-yet-unarrived" 1990 Fender Ultra's serial number is = N001485
Which indicates: "N" = 1990s and "0" = 1990
and Guitar Dater states =
"Your guitar was made at the Corona Plant (Fender), USA in the Year(s): 1990-1991"

According the Xhefri's site: "The Ultra models were the highest-end production guitars built by Fender, next to their Custom Shop models. They were manufactured between 1990 to 1999. All Ultras will say "Ultra" on the neck plate except for some on the 1st two years of production (1990-91)."

Example from Xhefri's site: "a 1993 Fender Stratocaster Ultra. (Serial #N3132907)".
Which indicates: "N" = 1990s and "3" = 1993

Therefore, Graon, when discussing my guitar, 1990 makes sense (PLMK if I am incorrect).

If you are discussing Cnsky54's claim of 1989 . . . when Xhefri's site states
Ultras started during 1990, PLMK.

Maybe Cnsky54 can share the serial number, neck/body stamped date codes and pictures.
He may have the first known Ultra from December 1989? Could be worth Ultra Millions :lol: :lol: :lol:


Thank you. Toppscore 8)

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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Mon Jun 04, 2012 9:06 am
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I believed you were saying that your Ultra is from 1989 but you were speaking about Cnsky54's Ultra. Sorry!

Your guitar is from 1990 or 1991 and I suggested you what to do to be definitely sure about the year of manufacturing even though the blackplate has the inscription "Ultra" or not. The observation of the change of the inscription, serial number location, the nut, the hipshot tremsetter and so on is not an exact science. However they are very good clues!

I'd like to know how starts the serial number of Cnsky54's Ultra because I wonder if he didn't automatically correlate a serial number like E9##### to 1989. E9##### can also be 1990....


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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Mon Jun 04, 2012 4:36 pm
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Graon wrote:
I believed you were saying that your Ultra is from 1989 but you were speaking about Cnsky54's Ultra. Sorry!

Your guitar is from 1990 or 1991 and I suggested you what to do to be definitely sure about the year of manufacturing even though the blackplate has the inscription "Ultra" or not. The observation of the change of the inscription, serial number location, the nut, the hipshot tremsetter and so on is not an exact science. However they are very good clues!

I'd like to know how starts the serial number of Cnsky54's Ultra because I wonder if he didn't automatically correlate a serial number like E9##### to 1989. E9##### can also be 1990....


Good stuff. When it arrives, I will know more.
But I was sold a 1990 and discussed a 1990 and the serial number is 1990.

So, I was interested in Cnsky's statement about his being 1989, that Xhefri claims 1990 is the first year, and that Cnsky states earlier within this thread that Xhefri is wrong or may not agree with Cnsky's assertion that he has a 1989. Mine is 1990, first year.
But, Xhefri's site, if I am not mistaken, states the Ultra shipped in January 1990.
So, a 1989 Ultra just may be possible. Good news to know.

Need Cnsky55's serial number and photos of the neck butt date code stamps
and the body cavity's date code stamps. Then we will need to rewrite histroy
that Ultras began shipping in late 1989 or early 1990. Toppscore :)

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Last edited by Toppscore on Tue Jun 05, 2012 9:33 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2012 5:45 am
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Just another question: I know you haven't your Ultra yet but do you plan playing with 9-42 strings. I think that guitar is mounted with 9-42 strings because of the Wilkinson nut (unless it is modified to accept bigger gauges). In the case of a native Wilkinson nut (without any modification) and your wish of playing with a bigger gauge you'll have to modify your Wilkinson nut or change your nut for a LSR one.

Tell us once your guitar received...


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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2012 7:38 am
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cnsky54 wrote:
Congrats!

I think probably not a 'first' year - Xhefri thought 90 was the first year, but mine is an '89, so who knows when they actually appeared on the market. You have the same bridge as mine, the standard 2-point Fender, not a FR. Wilkinson nut, locking tuners, beautiful body. Should give you a lot of joy for years!

Hey Mr cnsky54, how is the motorbike riding these days! Anyhow the Ultra was introduced in 1990...ummmm, well, that was the release date by Fender. Some were made with bodies and necks from late 1989 and sported a 89 serial number. It is like the DX Plus was introduced in 1989, with a production around mid-89. But some will have an E4 serial number and a split nut, even after more of the Standard Plus' were using a full Wilkinson Nut and a E8 or E9 serial number. I never could figure out what was going on with that!

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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2012 10:06 pm
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Graon wrote:
Just another question: I know you haven't your Ultra yet but do you plan playing with 9-42 strings. I think that guitar is mounted with 9-42 strings because of the Wilkinson nut (unless it is modified to accept bigger gauges). In the case of a native Wilkinson nut (without any modification) and your wish of playing with a bigger gauge you'll have to modify your Wilkinson nut or change your nut for a LSR one.
Tell us once your guitar received...
Thanks. This is a very interesting question. Not sure if I stated playing with bigger guage strings.
But, string guages are on my mind. I have just received several sets of each:
8's 9's 10's 11's all Ernie Ball and D'Addario. I am trying to experiment with nine
different guitars. So, your comment fits. I can easily leave the 9's in and keep 9's.

But, question for you is: can I use 8's without problems?
will 10's really be a problem over 9's??? PLMK. Thanks.

On another front regarding changes . . . .
I'm a Right-Handed player. I just purchased my first Left-Handed Fender Guitar
http://www.ebay.com/itm/261033949038?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

Instead of buying the more expensive Fender Jimi Hendrix models (I will procure an actual
Hendrix Reissue if I like playing the flipped Strat upside-down and reversing the strings.)
I decided to buy an American Made Left Handed Fender Stratocaster, add a strap button
on the shorter horn, FLIP IT, and see about what Jimi is/was all about.
Real cool. It'll ship today. Here next week.

So, today I went to my guitar repair guy to check the wiring within a recently purchased Strat.
Discussing the Hendrix Strat yet to arrive, he commented (as did John C.) that I'll need to
reverse the nut, and reconsider the string gauges. Also, John C. suggested I try to get
some 1969 Fender Reissue pickups.

If you check the guitar's EBay link to see the extra pickups and pick-guard configurations,
and the extra set of Graphtec saddles, I think there will be some extra fun playing with
more configurations. The string gauges will be an area I'll seek advice.

Thanks again. Toppscore 8)

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Last edited by Toppscore on Wed Jun 06, 2012 11:31 am, edited 2 times in total.

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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Wed Jun 06, 2012 3:15 am
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Toppscore wrote:
Graon wrote:
Just another question: I know you haven't your Ultra yet but do you plan playing with 9-42 strings. I think that guitar is mounted with 9-42 strings because of the Wilkinson nut (unless it is modified to accept bigger gauges). In the case of a native Wilkinson nut (without any modification) and your wish of playing with a bigger gauge you'll have to modify your Wilkinson nut or change your nut for a LSR one.
Tell us once your guitar received...
[b]Thanks. This is a very interesting question. Not sure if I stated playing with bigger guage strings.
But, string guages are on my mind. I have just received serveral sets of each:
8's 9's 10's 11's all Ernie Ball and D'Addario. I am trying to experiment with nine
different guitars. So, your comment fits. I can easily leave the 9's in and keep 9's.

But, question for you is: can I use 8's without problems?
will 10's really be a problem over 9's???


With Wilkinson unmodified:

8-38 OK
9-42 OK
9-46 OK but some issues with the 6th E string providing intonation issues
10-46 OK same thing with more strings (notches to strech)
11 and above => won't fit and/or strings won't move into the notches

With LSR roller nut:

Everything is ok till 13-56


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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Wed Jun 06, 2012 11:33 am
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Graon wrote:
Toppscore wrote:
Graon wrote:
Just another question: I know you haven't your Ultra yet but do you plan playing with 9-42 strings. I think that guitar is mounted with 9-42 strings because of the Wilkinson nut (unless it is modified to accept bigger gauges). In the case of a native Wilkinson nut (without any modification) and your wish of playing with a bigger gauge you'll have to modify your Wilkinson nut or change your nut for a LSR one.
Tell us once your guitar received...
[b]Thanks. This is a very interesting question. Not sure if I stated playing with bigger guage strings.
But, string guages are on my mind. I have just received serveral sets of each:
8's 9's 10's 11's all Ernie Ball and D'Addario. I am trying to experiment with nine
different guitars. So, your comment fits. I can easily leave the 9's in and keep 9's.

But, question for you is: can I use 8's without problems?
will 10's really be a problem over 9's???


With Wilkinson unmodified:

8-38 OK
9-42 OK
9-46 OK but some issues with the 6th E string providing intonation issues
10-46 OK same thing with more strings (notches to strech)
11 and above => won't fit and/or strings won't move into the notches
With LSR roller nut:
Everything is ok till 13-56


Thanks, Graon. This will be in my notes.
Where do you find information like this? Toppscore

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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2012 2:18 am
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For LSR : you just read the technical characteristics to find out the information

Same for the Wilkinson nut. Moreover, I tried myself all gauge from 9-42 to 11-49.

All that I never do is to modify the Wilkinson nut to allow strings from 10-46. I just replaced it with a LSR one.

My only complain with LSR nut kit replacement is the plastic part which compensate the lack of wood. I know plastic is not the best thing to link wood (fretboard) to metal (LSR nut) for a good sustain. I also dislike the piece of fragile rubber behind the ball bearings.

Does anyone try to customize the LSR kit used ton replace a Wilkinson one ? Does anyone try some graphtec or an Earvana nut like this one: http://www.earvana.com/fender_LSR.htm?


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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Thu Jun 07, 2012 11:50 am
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Graon wrote:
For LSR : you just read the technical characteristics to find out the information
Same for the Wilkinson nut. Moreover, I tried myself all gauge from 9-42 to 11-49.
All that I never do is to modify the Wilkinson nut to allow strings from 10-46. I just replaced it with a LSR one. My only complain with LSR nut kit replacement is the plastic part which compensate the lack of wood. I know plastic is not the best thing to link wood (fretboard) to metal (LSR nut) for a good sustain. I also dislike the piece of fragile rubber behind the ball bearings.
Does anyone try to customize the LSR kit used ton replace a Wilkinson one ? Does anyone try some graphtec or an Earvana nut like this one: http://www.earvana.com/fender_LSR.htm?


Thanks again. Graon. I will stick to nines.
My 1990 Fender Ultra arrived today.
I will take some photos, later :)

Toppscore 8)

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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Fri Jun 08, 2012 5:59 pm
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Finally, got the two Fender "Plus Series" guitars I was seeking: Ultra & Plus Deluxe.


Today, I purchased this Mint 1996 Fender Plus Deluxe Stratocaster with Original HSC
http://www.ebay.com/itm/170852879552?ss ... 1439.l2649

I studied the Fender Plus Deluxe market, and noticed that this was the best in original
condition and was the lowest priced. IMHO, several of the Plus Deluxes priced below $1000
are missing original parts, have been upgraded or are not Plus Deluxes at all!!!
The $962 paid for the Fender Plus Deluxe includes an Original HSC, is the best deal for me.
Most Fender Plus Deluxes are listed or have been sold from $1100-$2400



Last week, I purchased this 1990 Fender Ultra Stratocaster with Original HSC
http://www.ebay.com/itm/280890192783?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

The Ultra purchased last week is in fantastic condition with some light wear.
I got it for $1135 and have seen models advertised or sold for $1500-$2500.
"Price wise" with the original case, excellent original components & physical condition;
I feel it's a great deal.

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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2012 1:24 pm
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Yep, I have three of them - a 1991 Strat Plus in pewter, rosewood board with three lace golds, a 1989 Deluxe American Standard, also in pewter with maple board and three lace golds and a 1989 Strat Plus in (allegedly) Sherwood Green Metallic (I actually think it is gun metal blue) with rosewood board and the early Blue Silver Silver sensor layout. Both of the Plusses have the second style Wilkinson roller nut, TBX, Schaller locking heads, Hip Shot tremsetter etc.

Can't say much for the last one as I have just got it and it is in the process of being stripped and cleaned and set up. Really looking forward to getting it set up as I have heard great things about the Blue Silver Silver layout. The others though are just excellent strats. The Deluxe Standard in particular is the second one of these I have had - the first I bought new in 1990 - which, given the fact that there were only 400 made in total, is unusual! They easily compare with CS strats, of which I have owned a couple and still have a an 04 Blackie Clapton model. I do prefer the Lace Sensors to the Vintage Noiseless pickups though. Come to that, I prefer the lace golds to both the SCNs and the N3s as well!


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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Sun Jun 10, 2012 1:30 pm
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Oh, and on the dating issue - the Plus deluxe has an E8 serial but the neck is stamped April 21 1989 and the body May 2 1989. Both predate the official introduction date (from Xhefri's site) of July 1989.


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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2012 1:01 am
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tokaitelejohn wrote:
Yep, I have three of them - a 1991 Strat Plus in pewter, rosewood board with three lace golds, a 1989 Deluxe American Standard, also in pewter with maple board and three lace golds and a 1989 Strat Plus in (allegedly) Sherwood Green Metallic (I actually think it is gun metal blue) with rosewood board and the early Blue Silver Silver sensor layout. Both of the Plusses have the second style Wilkinson roller nut, TBX, Schaller locking heads, Hip Shot tremsetter etc.

Can't say much for the last one as I have just got it and it is in the process of being stripped and cleaned and set up. Really looking forward to getting it set up as I have heard great things about the Blue Silver Silver layout. The others though are just excellent strats. The Deluxe Standard in particular is the second one of these I have had - the first I bought new in 1990 - which, given the fact that there were only 400 made in total, is unusual! They easily compare with CS strats, of which I have owned a couple and still have a an 04 Blackie Clapton model. I do prefer the Lace Sensors to the Vintage Noiseless pickups though. Come to that, I prefer the lace golds to both the SCNs and the N3s as well!


Hi! Question about your "1989 Deluxe American Standard".
Is this a Fender "Plus" series guitar or one of thee Standard Strats that added
Lace Sensor pickups and other similar Plus Deluxe components/hardware?

Thanks for helping my understanding towards the "1989 Deluxe American Standard".
I heard the non-Plus Fender guitars with factory Lace pickups
only shipped during 1989/1990.

Take care. Toppscore

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Post subject: Re: Stratocaster Plus & Plus Deluxe ~ Stratocaster Ultra Gu
Posted: Sun Jun 17, 2012 4:54 am
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Yes Toppscore, that is correct. The 89-90 Deluxe American Standard was similar to the Plus in that it had 3 Lace Golds, and a TBX tone. No tremsetter, wilkinson nut or locking heads though. I've also now got the Plus Deluxe rebuilt - it basically needed new bridge saddles as the old ones had seized. There is a pronounced difference between it and the Plus - a bit fuller and fatter soundng all round vs the Golds - I quite like the Blue Silver Silver tonality.


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