Fender today announced the release of two highly anticipated signature instruments, meticulously crafted to replicate the unique sound and feel of Khruangbin’s trailblazing guitarist Mark Speer and bassist Laura Lee. For the first time ever, Fender is simultaneously launching signature models for two artists, offering fans and musicians the chance to experience the very instruments that define Khruangbin’s trademark psych-rock sound.
Khruangbin Collection
The new Mark Speer Stratocaster and Laura Lee Jazz Bass, both produced at Fender’s renowned Ensenada, Mexico factory, are more than just new models – they are “exact replicas” of the modified instruments Speer and Lee have exclusively played and refined over the past decade.
These limited-edition signature guitars and basses are designed to capture the essence of Khruangbin’s sonic identity, from their unique specifications to their distinctive features.
“Mark and Laura had built their trademark sound with some unique specs and features on their primary instruments… we wanted to be able to share that,” a Fender spokesperson stated, highlighting the dedication to authenticity in this historic release.
DiMarzio Power Under the Hood
A key element defining the sonic character of both instruments is the inclusion of DiMarzio pickups, a testament to the artists’ long-standing sonic preferences. Speer’s signature Stratocaster is armed with DiMarzio Pro Track electric guitar pickups in the neck and bridge positions, seamlessly complementing a traditional ’70s Strat pickup in the middle. This unique configuration delivers the versatile tones synonymous with Speer’s intricate guitar work.
Meanwhile, Lee’s signature Jazz Bass features a pair of DiMarzio Ultra Jazz pickups. DiMarzio’s own description of these pickups perfectly encapsulates the sound Lee achieves: “Lows are deeper, highs are more percussive, and the midrange is round but not muddy.” This partnership with DiMarzio ensures that both instruments deliver the authentic, rich, and dynamic tones Khruangbin fans have come to love.
Mark Speer Stratocaster: A ’70s Icon Reborn
The Mark Speer Stratocaster is a loving homage to ’70s Fender style. It boasts an Aged Natural lacquer finish on a custom-contoured ash body, showcasing the beautiful wood grain. True to its vintage inspiration, it features a three-bolt neck plate stamped with an “F,” a larger headstock, a bullet-style truss rod nut, and dual string trees.
The neck itself is a Custom C profile with a maple fingerboard and an old-school 7.25” radius. With 21 jumbo frets, a vintage-style tremolo augmented with Graph Tech saddles, and classic white pickguard and knobs, this Stratocaster is designed to be a comfortable and expressive extension of the player.
Speer eloquently articulated the profound connection he shares with his instrument: “This guitar is the easiest way for me to get the musical idea from my head, out into the world. I know this thing inside and out, the sounds it can make, and the textures I can achieve. It’s like becoming really familiar with your paintbrush.”
Laura Lee Jazz Bass: Vintage Vibe with a Modern Twist
The Laura Lee Jazz Bass exudes a classic vintage aesthetic with a modern, player-friendly twist.
It features a Custom U profile neck and a rosewood fingerboard with a 9.5” radius. A standout feature is the unique control layout: a pair of concentric knobs, nesting each pickup’s volume and tone on a single dial.
This innovative approach retains the vintage vibe while offering efficient control over the powerful DiMarzio Ultra Jazz pickups.
Availability and Pricing
These highly anticipated Khruangbin signature models are available now. The Mark Speer Stratocaster is priced at £1,349/$1,499, and the Laura Lee Jazz Bass is available for £1,399/$1,499.
For more details and to purchase, visit the official Fender website.
More Information
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