Aero Special... landed

Fender Japan's Aerodyne Special guitars & basses are now in stock at Swee Lee so it won't be subjected to the new GST rates next year. However, I find the prices disagreeable:

• Strat: $1,849
• HSS Strat: $18,99
• Tele: $1,849
• P-bass / J-bass: $1,949

Those figures are on the edges of the $2K bracket. Prices went crazy recently & things are not gonna get any better. When the initial Aerodyne models were available here, they were like $1.2K +/- ... those were the days. At the current listings, you are better off getting a used American Fender instead. The main draw of the Aerodyne Specials is that simple, no-frills look. It's downright attractive but I won't pay that much for one.

Pic: Chuya

Aero Special

Fender launched the Aerodyne Spacial a couple of days ago, they are still made in Japan. I've yet to experience the special element here as these look like the current Aerodyne sans pickguard. On that note, it looks like the Modern Series which were available not too long ago but these cost significantly lesser.

For Strats, the SSS version is available with a maple fingerboard. 

Tele fans, you're not forgotten. I love that clean look; no metal plate at the electronics section. OK so this version of the Aerodyne Tele has a Tele-type neck single coil. The previous one has a P-90. Also, the selector switch is back at the electronics area, unlike the LP style 3-way toggle of its predecessor. 

OK so this time round, there's a P-Bass - yes! It's a serious enticement for me. I've been wanting one. Of course, no funds for an immediate purchase. Bummer.

Pics: Fender Japan