Reaching New Heights
With the basics of mass production nailed down, companies could start moving forward in design. Because the solid body gets its sound from the strings alone and not from the body, manufacturers could get more creative with body design. Inventors made use of this soon after the first mass-produced electrics.
The Stratocaster was a huge advancement for the electric guitar. It was the first to utilize three pickups, put the cable-jack in the front, and feature a curvy, modern body designed for comfort. The design centered around comfort, playability, and a modern look.
The Fender Stratocaster, released 1954, credit to the Smithsonian
The patent for the Stratocaster tremolo system, filed by Leo Fender in August of 1945. Credit to Google Patents.
Another first was the Stratocaster's tremolo system. It allowed the player to bend the pitch out of tune and back with ease. Guitarists flocked to the instrument because of this, using it for extra effect in their music.
Other guitar manufacturers, most significantly Gibson, desired a share in the growing market. They followed suit with Fender and designed guitars that looked modern and new in order to attract more followers.
The Gibson Flying V (left), Gibson Explorer (middle), and Fender Jazzmaster (right), all released in 1958. Credit to the Smithsonian.
