1980 Fender Lead II, (Used)

The 1980 Fender Lead II in black is a distinctive vintage model from Fender’s late CBS-era lineup, produced at the Fullerton, California factory between 1979 and 1982. Designed as a more affordable alternative to the Stratocaster, the Lead II features a solid alder body with a gloss black finish and a three-ply black pickguard. Its bolt-on maple neck, paired with a maple fingerboard, offers a 25.5" scale length and a comfortable "C" profile. The fingerboard radius varies between 7.25" and 9.5", depending on the specific model. The guitar is equipped with 21 medium frets and vintage-style "F" tuners.

Electronics include two specially designed X-1 single-coil pickups, known for their higher output compared to standard Strat pickups. A three-way selector switch allows for neck, bridge, or combined pickup settings, while a two-way phase switch offers in-phase and out-of-phase tones when both pickups are engaged. Master volume and tone controls provide straightforward sound shaping.

The Lead II's hardtail bridge features a string-through-body design with locknut saddle screws, enhancing sustain and tuning stability. Notably, Bono of U2 used a black Lead II during early performances, including the "War" tour and the "Under a Blood Red Sky" concert film. Today, the 1980 Lead II is sought after by collectors and players alike for its unique tone, comfortable playability, and place in Fender's history.