This is a 1979 Fender International Series Hardtail Stratocaster in Moroccan Red it is a distinctive guitar, combining the classic Stratocaster design with a unique set of features that set it apart from other models of its time.
The body of the International Series Stratocaster is made of alder—a wood known for its balanced tone, with a slightly bright and punchy midrange. The guitar is finished in a vibrant, glossy Moroccan Red, which was a rare and striking color in Fender's lineup at the time. Moroccan Red has a deep, rich tone with a slight burgundy or wine-like hue, giving the guitar a sophisticated, yet bold appearance. Under certain lighting, the finish can have a subtle depth that enhances the vintage vibe of the instrument.
The neck is typically made from maple, with a rosewood fretboard. The profile of the neck is generally a C-shape, providing a comfortable feel for most players, with a vintage-style 21 frets. The fretboard is typically smooth, and the overall construction feels solid, with a medium-to-slim profile that appeals to players who prefer a faster, more modern feel.
As a hardtail model, the Stratocaster is equipped with a fixed bridge, which offers improved tuning stability and sustain compared to the traditional tremolo-equipped Stratocasters. This makes it particularly attractive to players who prefer a stable, low-maintenance setup. The hardtail bridge also gives the guitar a slightly different tonal character, with more pronounced midrange and overall sustain.
The chrome hardware on the International Series Hardtail includes the standard Stratocaster tuners, saddles, and bridge plate, contributing to the overall vintage aesthetic of the instrument.
The pickups in this 1981 Stratocaster are the classic single-coil configuration. The guitar comes with a 5-way switch and the standard master tone and master volume controls, allowing players to dial in a wide variety of sounds—from the bright, cutting tones of the bridge pickup to the warmer, more rounded sounds of the neck pickup.
The sound of this Stratocaster is as dynamic as its appearance. The single-coil pickups produce clear, crisp tones with excellent note articulation. Expect the signature Strat bell-like highs, a solid midrange, and a scooped bass response, which allows for both sharp rhythm playing and cutting lead tones. The hardtail bridge adds a bit more sustain and a punchier attack compared to its tremolo-equipped siblings, making it especially appealing to players who favour tight, focused tones.
It is in excellent and 100% original condition with its original 1979 moulded case and is quite the package!