Fender kicks off landmark 80th anniversary year with new Squier Sonic range and Hot Rod Deluxe amp
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16.01.2026

Fender kicks off landmark 80th anniversary year with new Squier Sonic range and Hot Rod Deluxe amp

new fender
Words by Mixdown

The iconic guitar maker unveils an expanded 2026 product line featuring affordable Squier instruments, a 30th anniversary Hot Rod Deluxe amplifier, and a slew of new accessories.

Fender is marking its 80th anniversary in style, launching a comprehensive new product line that spans entry-level instruments through to anniversary editions of some of its most beloved gear. The timing couldn’t be more fitting—2026 also celebrates 75 years since the Telecaster and Precision Bass first hit the scene.

Catch up on all the latest news here.

The headline of this release is a significantly expanded Squier Sonic range, offering players more affordable entry points into the Fender family. The lineup includes fresh takes on the Stratocaster, Telecaster, Mustang, and Esquire, with various pickup configurations to suit different playing styles. There’s also a new Bronco Bass and Precision Bass joining the fold, plus updated Mini Stratocaster and Mini Precision Bass models for players who prefer a more compact instrument.

“Our 2026 product line showcases how Fender continues to evolve with today’s players while staying true to Fender’s legacy of craftsmanship,” said Max Gutnik, Chief Product Officer at Fender. The Squier Sonic instruments feature slim C-shaped neck profiles, lightweight bodies, and hardtail bridges on most models for solid tuning stability—practical features that matter when you’re learning or gigging on a budget.

For those after classic Fender tone with a bit more grunt, the Hot Rod Deluxe 30th Anniversary amplifier might be worth a look. This limited-edition 40-watt combo celebrates three decades of the Hot Rod Deluxe’s reign as a backline staple. Fender has equipped it with a Celestion G12M-65 Creamback speaker, modified preamp circuitry for better note definition when overdriven, and improved spring reverb. The black Western covering with vintage brown and gold grille cloth gives it a distinctive aesthetic that sets it apart from standard models.

Bass players using the Mustang Micro Plus will want to download the new firmware update, which transforms the headphone amp into a full bass rig. Ten iconic bass amp models are now available, from the Super Bassman and Rumble V2/V3 through to the SWR Redhead and more. There’s also a switchable input pad for active electronics, a thoughtful addition that shows Fender is listening to player feedback.

Pedal enthusiasts will appreciate the new Strobo-Sonic Pro tuner, which boasts ±0.01 cent tuning accuracy in a pedalboard-friendly enclosure. It features both strobe and needle display modes, auto-brightness dimming, and three bypass options including true bypass and buffered modes. For players who demand precision, this could be a solid addition to the board.

Fender has also introduced a new “Gear Furniture” line featuring wooden multi-tier stands and wall-mounted pedal shelves, plus a Galaxy series of accessories with iridescent finishes across straps, cases, and cables. The company is clearly expanding beyond just instruments and amps into lifestyle products for players who want their gear on display.

American Professional Classic replacement necks are now available for Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, and Jaguar models, offering players more customisation options. Rounding out the accessories range are new Tex-Mex Hot pickup sets for Strat and Tele, delivering overwound variants of the classic Tex-Mex sound with extra output and midrange punch.

The Squier instruments and some accessories are available now, with the Hot Rod Deluxe 30th Anniversary and Strobo-Sonic Pro tuner arriving in March.

For full specifications and retailer information, visit fender.com.