Description

Tuxedo Tele! 1994 MIJ Fender TL-43 with Gotoh tuners, $999!

The Fender TL-43 is a Japanese-made Telecaster model from Fender’s renowned MIJ (Made in Japan) series. Produced primarily during the 1980s and 1990s, the TL-43 is a Telecaster variant that incorporates the classic Telecaster body shape and design with some unique features and high-quality Japanese craftsmanship. Known for its playability, rich tone, and attention to detail, the TL-43 is a favorite among players who value Japanese Fender guitars for their quality and affordability.

Key Features

  • Alder body, providing a balanced tonal response with strong midrange and sustain
  • Maple neck with a “C” profile, offering comfortable playability and fast action
  • Maple or rosewood fingerboard, depending on the model, with 21 medium-jumbo frets
  • Single-coil pickups, delivering the classic Telecaster twang and bright tone
  • Three-way pickup selector, allowing for a range of tonal options from bridge, neck, and combined pickups
  • Classic Telecaster bridge, with or without string-through-body design for solid sustain
  • Chrome hardware, including vintage-style tuners for stable and accurate tuning
  • Traditional single-cutaway body, providing easy access to upper frets

Sound Profile
The Fender TL-43 delivers the signature Telecaster sound, characterized by its bright, twangy highs, clear midrange, and tight low-end response. The single-coil pickups provide a wide range of sounds, from cutting leads to warm rhythm tones, making it highly versatile across various genres. The bridge pickup offers a sharp, biting tone that is perfect for country, rock, and blues, while the neck pickup delivers warmer, more rounded tones ideal for jazz, rhythm guitar, or smoother lead lines.

Applications
The TL-43 is ideal for players who want a versatile, classic-sounding Telecaster that is well-suited for country, rock, blues, and alternative music. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians, as its reliable build quality and stable tuning make it perfect for live performances. The Japanese craftsmanship ensures that it performs well both in studio recordings and live settings, with a tone that can easily cut through the mix or blend in with a band.

Build Quality and Aesthetic
The Fender TL-43 showcases the excellent build quality associated with Fender Japan. Its solid wood body, smooth neck, and vintage-style hardware make it a reliable and durable instrument. The maple fingerboard provides comfort and ease of play, while the classic Telecaster design is both visually appealing and functional. The finish options reflect both traditional and modern aesthetics, catering to players who want the vintage vibe of a Telecaster with some modern tweaks.

Country of Manufacture
Japan

Collectibility and Market Value
The Fender TL-43 is highly regarded among MIJ Fender collectors and players due to its reliable craftsmanship and authentic Telecaster tone. While not as rare or collectible as vintage American-made models, it holds good market value due to its high-quality build, versatility, and Fender Japan’s reputation for producing excellent instruments. This model is popular in the second-hand market, particularly among players looking for a well-crafted, affordable Telecaster.