The Fender Player Plus Nashville Telecaster is a remarkable instrument that builds upon the foundation of the standard Player Telecaster, incorporating several features that cater to players looking for extra versatility and enhanced playability.
Design and Aesthetics: The Player Plus Nashville Telecaster retains the classic Telecaster shape, beloved for its simplicity and elegance. However, it often comes in unique finishes that set it apart from the more traditional looks of the Player series. These finishes, coupled with a more modern look, appeal to players who want a blend of classic design with a contemporary twist.
Pickups and Sound: One of the key differences between the Player Plus Nashville Telecaster and the standard Player Telecaster is in the pickup configuration. While the standard Player Telecaster typically features two single-coil pickups, the Nashville version adds a middle pickup, similar to what you’d find on a Stratocaster. This middle pickup, usually a Stratocaster single-coil, allows for a wider range of tonal possibilities, including the quintessential Stratocaster “quack” when used in combination with the bridge or neck pickups. This makes the Nashville version more versatile, catering to a broader range of musical styles.
Playability: The Player Plus Nashville Telecaster often features refined playability enhancements. This could include a more modern neck profile, a flatter fingerboard radius (which facilitates easier string bending and lower action), and medium-jumbo frets. These features make the guitar more comfortable to play, especially for those who are used to modern guitar necks and for styles that demand fast playing and bending.
Hardware: The hardware on the Player Plus Nashville Telecaster is typically a step above the Player series. This might include upgraded tuning machines, a more advanced bridge, and possibly locking tuners. Such upgrades contribute to better tuning stability and overall reliability.
Value and Market Position: The Player Plus Nashville Telecaster is positioned as a higher-end version of the Player series. It’s designed for players who appreciate the basic qualities of a Telecaster but are looking for something more versatile and with higher-grade features. The price point reflects these upgrades, being higher than the standard Player Telecaster but still offering good value for players who want these additional features without stepping up to the much higher-priced American models.
Conclusion: The Fender Player Plus Nashville Telecaster is an excellent choice for players who love the classic Telecaster but are looking for more versatility and a few modern touches. Its additional pickup and upgraded features make it a more adaptable instrument, suitable for a wider range of musical styles and playing techniques. While it carries a higher price tag than the standard Player Telecaster, its enhancements justify the cost for those who will make the most of its expanded capabilities.