Japan-Exclusive Masterpieces: Inside Fender Japan’s Innovative Active Modern Lineup

Fender Japan is continuing to set the pace for the Big F when it comes to innovation by rolling out its fresh Active Modern collection.

Covering two Stratocasters, a Telecaster, and a Modern Jazz Bass, the new quartet introduces a choice selection of aesthetic, functional, and electronic features that would certainly be welcome additions to the US lineup.

Key among the updates is a brand-new Turbo Tone Boost. Activated by a convenient push/push volume knob, it cleverly simulates the effect of increasing the number of coil windings on a single-coil pickup. There is also an upgraded five-bolt neck plate and sculpted neck heel design, which looks like a refined evolution of the American Ultra II style and a neat way to grant effortless access to the highest frets.

Further still, the Stratocasters and Telecasters feature elegant body binding—a notable novelty especially for Strats, and a true rarity among Fender's regular production runs. Here's hoping some similarly styled six-strings eventually make their way to the US catalog.

Then we have the all-new SILENCOIL technology. On paper, it appears to be identical, or incredibly similar, to the patent-pending Silent System featured in the Pro Classic Silent series announced last month.

In practice, the SILENCOIL promises to retain the authentic organic tone of traditional single-coils while guaranteeing completely noiseless operation. Players can expect the "delicate nuances and clear attack inherent in single-coil pickups," paired with clever wiring wizardry that routes a connection from the pickup's ground side to cancel out hum noise picked up by the coils.

This results, Fender Japan notes, in "a clear and three-dimensional sound." The independence of the SILENCOIL architecture means that its noiseless benefits will remain intact should a player decide to swap out the stock pickups down the line.

The DNA of these guitars remains defiantly Fender, featuring a classic alder body and maple neck tonewood combination at their core. The three electric models showcase rich rosewood fingerboards with 22 frets and abalone dot inlays, while the bass guitar stands out with a striking Bluewood fretboard, 22 frets, and a full 34-inch scale length.

— Combining the precise craftsmanship unique to Made in Japan production with modern functionality, this series inherits the traditional Fender sound while acting as a contemporary guitar for players seeking greater freedom and expressive playing, — states Fender Japan.

The Fender Japan Limited Active Modern Series is available now, though as is often the case, it remains strictly limited to a Japan-only release.