1976 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst Vintage Electric Guitar, (Used)

The 1976 Fender Stratocaster in Sunburst is a genuine vintage American-made electric guitar from the influential CBS era of Fender production. Combining the unmistakable styling of a 1970s Stratocaster with the versatile single-coil sound that helped define modern electric guitar music, this instrument is an appealing choice for players and collectors alike.

Manufactured during an important period in Fender's history, the 1976 Stratocaster is associated with several distinctive design features, including the large CBS-era headstock, three-bolt neck attachment, Bullet truss rod adjustment and traditional Stratocaster body shape.

These appointments distinguish the 1970s instruments from their earlier 1950s and 1960s counterparts, giving them a recognisable appearance and their own place within Fender's vintage history.

The classic Stratocaster three-single-coil configuration provides an exceptionally versatile range of sounds, from bright, articulate bridge-pickup tones and expressive blues leads to warm, rounded neck-pickup sounds and crisp rhythm guitar.

A traditional synchronized tremolo design adds further expressive possibilities, making the Stratocaster an outstanding instrument for blues, classic rock, funk, soul and vintage-inspired guitar playing.

Finished in beautiful Sunburst, this guitar captures the appearance of Fender's classic American instruments and offers the visual appeal associated with genuine 1970s electric guitars.

This particular example is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 9.06 lbs (approximately 4.11kg) and comes complete with a hardcase.

Its serial number, 7682682, follows Fender's 1976 seven-digit numbering format, introduced during the transition from neck-plate serial numbers to headstock decals.

For musicians seeking the character of an authentic 1970s Fender, rather than a modern reissue, this 1976 Stratocaster offers vintage heritage, classic styling and considerable musical appeal.

At A Glance

Detail	Information
Brand	Fender
Model	Stratocaster
Year	1976
Finish	Sunburst
Country of Manufacture	USA
Serial Number	7682682
Weight	9.06 lbs / 4.11kg
Condition	Very Good – Pre-Owned
Case	Hardcase Included

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Very Good Condition

This 1976 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, displaying some cosmetic wear consistent with previous ownership and use.

As a genuine vintage guitar approaching five decades of age, it offers the character and historical interest associated with older American-made Fender instruments.

The Sunburst finish complements the familiar Stratocaster body shape and distinctive CBS-era styling, creating a traditional appearance that remains immediately recognisable.

Please study the accompanying product photographs carefully for a closer assessment of the individual instrument's condition, including its finish, neck, fingerboard, hardware and signs of previous use.

Serial Number & Dating

Serial Number: 7682682

This guitar carries a seven-digit Fender serial number beginning with 76, consistent with the numbering format introduced during 1976.

During this period, Fender moved away from stamping serial numbers onto neck plates and began incorporating them into headstock decals.

The original 76-prefix format was subsequently followed by the familiar S-prefix numbering system used on later CBS-era instruments.

The serial number is consistent with the guitar's identification as a 1976 Fender Stratocaster.

Weight – 9.06 lbs

This Fender Stratocaster weighs 9.06 lbs (approximately 4.11kg).

Its substantial weight is characteristic of the heavier playing feel associated with many Fender instruments from the 1970s.

For guitarists who appreciate a solid, reassuring instrument, this can be an attractive feature, although the weight is worth considering for extended standing performances.

Hardcase Included

This 1976 Fender Stratocaster is supplied with a hardcase, providing valuable protection during storage and transportation.

A suitable hardcase is particularly important for an older instrument, helping protect the body, neck and finish from accidental damage.

What's Included

• 1976 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst Electric Guitar

• Hardcase

Service & Setup

Vintage Fender Stratocasters benefit from careful maintenance and appropriate adjustment of neck relief, string action, intonation and tuning stability. On an instrument from 1976, attention to fret condition, nut wear, bridge hardware, electronic controls and the neck joint is especially valuable. Any maintenance or adjustments should take the instrument's age and vintage construction into consideration, particularly when working around original finishes and components. As with all guitars, setup can naturally change due to variations in humidity, temperature and other environmental conditions, potentially affecting neck relief, string action and overall playability.

Key Features

• Genuine 1976 Fender Stratocaster: An original CBS-era American-made electric guitar.

• Classic Sunburst Finish: Timeless Fender styling.

• Vintage USA Manufacture: From Fender's influential 1970s production period.

• CBS-Era Large Headstock Design: A defining feature of 1970s Stratocasters.

• Traditional Three-Single-Coil Design: Celebrated for its clarity, dynamics and tonal versatility.

• Three-Bolt Neck Construction of the Period: Distinctive CBS-era Fender design.

• Bullet Truss Rod Design of the Period: Recognisable 1970s neck adjustment system.

• Traditional Stratocaster Body Shape: One of the world's most influential electric guitar designs.

• Vintage-Style Synchronized Tremolo Design: Allows expressive pitch modulation.

• Classic Fender 25.5-Inch Scale Specification: Familiar Stratocaster string tension and articulation.

• Versatile Electric Guitar Character: Well suited to blues, classic rock, funk, soul and pop.

• 1976-Style Serial Number: 7682682.

• Substantial Playing Weight: 9.06 lbs.

• Very Good Pre-Owned Condition: A desirable vintage instrument.

• Hardcase Included: Protection for storage and transportation.

Why You'll Love It

A genuine 1970s Fender Stratocaster offers something that a modern vintage-style reissue cannot: a direct connection to the instruments, manufacturing practices and musical culture of the original era.

The 1976 Stratocaster occupies a distinctive position in Fender history, carrying the features that made CBS-era instruments immediately recognisable.

Its large headstock and period-inspired hardware styling give it an unmistakable visual identity, while the familiar Stratocaster design provides a playing experience that remains relevant to countless musical genres.

The traditional three-single-coil sound offers exceptional versatility. Clean amplifier settings allow the guitar to produce articulate rhythm tones, while overdrive brings out expressive blues and rock sounds.

For vintage Fender enthusiasts, the Sunburst finish and 1976 serial-number format add to the historical appeal.

At 9.06 lbs, this particular instrument has the substantial feel associated with many 1970s Stratocasters, making it especially appealing to musicians who appreciate guitars with a reassuring physical presence.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Genuine 1976 Fender USA Production

This Stratocaster dates from the influential CBS era of Fender history, when the company was producing instruments with several distinctive design features that differed from those of the pre-CBS period. The 1976 production year is particularly interesting because Fender was transitioning between neck-plate and headstock serial-number systems. Instruments from this era have developed a following among players and collectors who appreciate their individual character and historical significance.

Classic Sunburst Finish

The Sunburst finish is one of Fender's most recognisable colour schemes, closely associated with the Stratocaster since its earliest production years. Its combination of warm central colouring and darker outer shading highlights the familiar body contours, creating an appearance that has remained popular for generations. On a genuine 1976 instrument, this traditional finish complements the distinctive styling of Fender's CBS era.

The Iconic Stratocaster Body Design

First introduced in 1954, the Stratocaster body became celebrated for its comfortable contours, double-cutaway construction and versatile playing experience. By 1976, the design was already firmly established as one of the most important electric guitar shapes in music history. Its familiar proportions provide comfortable access to a broad range of playing techniques, while the instantly recognisable silhouette remains equally appealing to blues, rock and contemporary musicians.

Distinctive CBS-Era Large Headstock

One of the defining visual characteristics of 1970s Fender Stratocasters is the larger headstock introduced during the CBS period. This feature gives the instrument an immediately recognisable appearance, particularly when compared with earlier small-headstock models. The large headstock has become closely associated with classic rock guitars of the era and remains popular among players who appreciate 1970s Fender styling.

Three-Bolt Neck Construction

Fender's standard Stratocaster design of 1976 incorporated a three-bolt neck attachment rather than the traditional four-bolt arrangement used on earlier instruments. This was part of the company's CBS-era design evolution and remains a distinctive feature of vintage Stratocasters from this period. The three-bolt arrangement is especially recognisable to collectors and enthusiasts interested in identifying instruments from the 1970s.

Bullet Truss Rod Adjustment

The Bullet truss rod adjustment system is another characteristic feature of the 1970s Fender Stratocaster. Its distinctive metal adjustment point at the headstock became one of the most familiar visual elements of CBS-era instruments. This arrangement allows neck relief to be adjusted from the headstock end and contributes to the period-specific appearance of the guitar.

Traditional Three-Single-Coil Stratocaster Sound

The Stratocaster's three-single-coil pickup arrangement has been one of its defining characteristics since 1954. The bridge position is known for its bright, cutting response, while the neck position provides warm, expressive tones particularly suited to blues and melodic lead guitar. The middle pickup offers an additional character, while combined pickup selections can provide the articulate, hollow-sounding tones associated with classic Fender rhythm guitar. This versatility has helped the Stratocaster remain popular across numerous musical genres.

Vintage Stratocaster Electronics Philosophy

The original 1976 Stratocaster design retained the traditional three-pickup control philosophy, with a master volume and two tone controls. During this era, Fender was also transitioning towards the five-position switching arrangement that would become standard on later Stratocasters. These original electronics are part of the historical interest of the model, particularly for players and collectors who appreciate period-specific guitar configurations.

Traditional Synchronized Tremolo Design

The Fender Stratocaster is closely associated with its traditional synchronized tremolo bridge, allowing guitarists to introduce expressive pitch variation through a vibrato arm. The system has contributed to countless influential recordings, particularly in blues, rock and instrumental guitar music. On vintage instruments, appropriate setup and maintenance of the bridge, springs and tuning components are important for reliable performance.

Classic 25.5-Inch Fender Scale

The standard Stratocaster design features a 25.5-inch scale length, providing the familiar string tension, articulation and note definition associated with Fender electric guitars. This longer scale complements the naturally bright character of traditional single-coil pickups, making the Stratocaster particularly effective for clean rhythm playing, expressive blues leads and articulate rock guitar.

Substantial Vintage Playing Feel

At 9.06 lbs, this particular 1976 Stratocaster has a substantial weight that gives it a reassuring physical presence. Many Stratocasters from the 1970s are associated with heavier construction than some earlier Fender instruments. While guitar weight is not a reliable predictor of tonal quality, it can be an important part of the instrument's playing experience and is worth considering when choosing a vintage electric guitar.

A Genuine Piece of Fender History

The appeal of a 1976 Stratocaster extends beyond its familiar sound and appearance. It represents a specific moment in Fender's development, when the Stratocaster design had already influenced generations of musicians and was continuing to evolve. For collectors and players alike, an original-period instrument provides a tangible connection to that history, making it particularly interesting within the wider Fender family.

Who Is It For?

Vintage Fender Collectors: A genuine 1976 Stratocaster with a period-style serial number.

Classic Rock Guitarists: Distinctive CBS-era appearance and traditional Fender single-coil sounds.

Blues Musicians: The Stratocaster design is renowned for expressive, articulate lead tones.

Funk & Soul Players: Traditional single-coil sounds suit clear, rhythmic chord work.

Recording Musicians: Offers the character and styling of an original 1970s Fender instrument.

Players Who Appreciate Heavier Guitars: Its 9.06 lb weight provides a substantial playing feel.

Playing Styles & Applications

The 1976 Fender Stratocaster is suitable for blues, blues-rock, classic rock, funk, soul, country, pop and vintage-inspired guitar music.

Traditional Stratocaster single-coil sounds are particularly effective through clean Fender-style amplifiers, where their clarity and articulation can be appreciated.

For blues and rock, adding overdrive provides expressive lead sounds and powerful rhythm tones.

The familiar Stratocaster design also remains a favourite for studio recording, where its distinctive single-coil character can complement other guitars within an arrangement.

How It Compares

1976 Fender Stratocaster vs Pre-CBS Fender Stratocaster

Pre-CBS Stratocasters are particularly celebrated for their early design specifications, including the smaller headstock and four-bolt neck attachment. The 1976 Stratocaster belongs to a later period, with the larger CBS-era headstock and three-bolt neck design associated with Fender production in the 1970s. Both have considerable historical interest, but their construction details and playing characteristics reflect different periods of Fender history.

1976 Fender Stratocaster vs Fender American Vintage II 1973 Stratocaster

The Fender American Vintage II 1973 Stratocaster is a modern recreation of an early-1970s design, incorporating historically inspired appointments with contemporary manufacturing. A genuine 1976 Stratocaster instead offers the character and historical appeal of an original-period instrument. Players seeking a new guitar with vintage styling may prefer the American Vintage II, while enthusiasts of authentic older Fender guitars may favour the 1976 original.

1976 Fender Stratocaster vs Modern Fender American Professional Stratocaster

Modern American Professional Stratocasters incorporate updated pickups, neck profiles, fretwork and hardware intended for contemporary musicians. The 1976 Stratocaster reflects the construction and design philosophy of the CBS era, giving it a different appearance and playing character. Players seeking modern refinements may prefer an American Professional, while vintage enthusiasts may appreciate the individuality of the older guitar.

Fender Stratocaster Heritage

The Fender Stratocaster was introduced in 1954, transforming electric guitar design through its comfortable contoured body, three-pickup layout and innovative synchronized tremolo.

During the 1960s, the model became closely associated with influential musicians including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Ritchie Blackmore.

Following Fender's acquisition by CBS in 1965, the Stratocaster underwent several changes, including the introduction of the larger headstock and, later, the three-bolt neck attachment.

By 1976, these appointments had become defining features of the Stratocaster's appearance.

The 1970s represented an important chapter in the instrument's development, with the Stratocaster continuing to influence classic rock, blues and popular music.

Today, original CBS-era Stratocasters are appreciated by players and collectors for their distinctive styling, historical importance and individual character.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Type	Vintage Electric Guitar
Brand	Fender
Model	Stratocaster
Year	1976
Serial Number	7682682
Country of Manufacture	USA
Finish	Sunburst
Body Style	Double-Cutaway Stratocaster
Body Construction	Solid Body
Original Period Pickup Layout	Three Single-Coils
Original Period Neck Joint	Three-Bolt
Original Period Truss Rod	Bullet Adjustment
Original Period Scale Length	25.5" / 648mm
Original Period Headstock Style	Large CBS-Era
Original Period Bridge Design	Synchronized Tremolo
Number of Strings	6
Weight	9.06 lbs / Approx. 4.11kg
Condition	Very Good – Pre-Owned
Case	Hardcase Included

Power Requirements

The traditional 1976 Fender Stratocaster uses passive electric guitar electronics and does not require a battery or external power supply.

The guitar connects to a suitable amplifier, effects processor or audio interface using a standard ¼-inch instrument cable.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

The 1976 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst is an attractive genuine vintage Fender that represents an important period in the development of one of the world's most influential electric guitars.

Its large CBS-era headstock styling, traditional Stratocaster design and 1976 serial-number format give it an unmistakable connection to Fender's 1970s history.

The classic Stratocaster configuration provides the familiar versatility required for blues, classic rock, funk, soul and recording.

At 9.06 lbs, this guitar has a substantial playing weight, while the Sunburst finish provides the timeless visual appeal associated with vintage Fender instruments.

Presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition and supplied with a hardcase, this guitar is particularly appealing to musicians seeking an original-period Stratocaster rather than a modern reproduction.

Best Suited For: Vintage Fender collectors, blues and classic rock guitarists, recording musicians and enthusiasts of 1970s instruments.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Modern Fender Stratocasters, American Vintage reissues and Japanese vintage-style Fender instruments.

Most Commonly Paired With: Fender valve amplifiers, Marshall-style amplifiers, vintage overdrive, fuzz, wah and analogue modulation effects.

Our Tip: Explore the guitar through a responsive clean or lightly overdriven amplifier to appreciate the traditional Stratocaster playing experience.

Showroom Advice: At 9.06 lbs, this is a relatively substantial Stratocaster. Its weight and vintage-era design are important considerations for anyone comparing it with lighter modern Fender instruments.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a vintage Fender Stratocaster from Fair Deal Music provides an opportunity to own a genuine older American-made instrument with significant musical heritage.

Our experienced team understands the importance of clear condition reports, accurate dating information and transparent descriptions of vintage equipment.

This particular guitar is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 9.06 lbs, carries serial number 7682682 and comes complete with a hardcase.

Warranty, Returns & Delivery

This is a pre-owned vintage electric guitar, with its condition and confirmed accessories detailed above.

Applicable warranty and returns arrangements are governed by Fair Deal Music's current terms, with available UK delivery and showroom collection options provided at checkout.

The included hardcase provides valuable protection during storage and transportation.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

Based in Birmingham, Fair Deal Music specialises in new, used, vintage and collectable guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects pedals, keyboards and professional audio equipment.

Our experienced team of musicians provides knowledgeable advice and personal service, helping customers find instruments suited to their playing styles and requirements.

Customers benefit from competitive pricing, UK delivery options, our Birmingham showroom and part-exchange services.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including vintage Fender Stratocasters, Telecasters, Gibson electric guitars, acoustic instruments, basses, amplifiers and effects pedals.

Your existing equipment could help towards the cost of this 1976 Fender Stratocaster.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition is this Fender Stratocaster in?

It is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

What year is this Stratocaster?

It is identified as a 1976 Fender Stratocaster.

What is the serial number?

7682682.  

Does the serial number match 1976 production?

Yes. Fender identifies serial numbers beginning with 76 followed by five digits as part of its 1976 numbering format.

Where was this Stratocaster manufactured?

The USA.

What finish does it have?

Sunburst.

How much does it weigh?

This example weighs 9.06 lbs, approximately 4.11kg.

Does it come with a case?

Yes. A hardcase is included.

Is this a genuine vintage Fender?

Yes. It is identified as a 1976 Fender Stratocaster, rather than a modern vintage-style reissue.

What is a CBS-era Stratocaster?

It refers to Fender instruments produced during the period when the company was owned by CBS, from 1965 to 1985.

Does a 1976 Stratocaster have a large headstock?

The standard 1976 Stratocaster design features the larger headstock associated with Fender's CBS era.

What type of neck attachment was used in 1976?

The standard Stratocaster specification of this period uses a three-bolt neck attachment.

What is a Bullet truss rod?

It is a distinctive headstock-end truss rod adjustment system associated with Fender's 1970s designs.

What pickups were originally fitted to a 1976 Stratocaster?

The original standard specification used three Fender single-coil pickups.

Did 1976 Stratocasters have a three-way or five-way pickup selector?

The standard factory specification of the era used three-way switching. Five-way switches became standard later, although many older instruments have subsequently been updated.

What scale length does the traditional Stratocaster use?

25.5 inches.

Does the traditional Stratocaster design include a tremolo?

Yes. It uses Fender's synchronized tremolo design.

Is the guitar suitable for blues?

Yes. Traditional Stratocaster single-coil sounds are particularly well suited to expressive blues guitar.

Can it be used for classic rock?

Yes. The Stratocaster has been used extensively throughout classic rock history.

Is it suitable for funk and soul?

Yes. Its clear, articulate response is particularly effective for rhythmic chord playing.

Is it suitable for recording?

Yes. The Stratocaster provides versatile electric guitar sounds that remain highly popular in recording studios.

Is 9.06 lbs heavy for a Stratocaster?

It is a relatively substantial weight compared with many modern Stratocasters, although heavier instruments are associated with the 1970s production era.

Are all the components original?

The listing does not make a claim regarding the originality of individual electronic or hardware components.

Can I part-exchange another guitar towards this 1976 Fender?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers guitars and other musical equipment for part exchange.