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4 articles

A Fender Stratocaster in sunburst finish — the most iconic guitar body shape in history, now at the centre of a major international legal dispute

Fender's Legal War on the Strat Copy: Inside the Campaign to Own an Icon

After winning a landmark copyright ruling in Germany, Fender has unleashed cease-and-desist letters on independent guitar builders worldwide. But can the world's largest guitar company truly own the shape that defined rock and roll — and what happens when it tries?

Tonebay EditorialMay 21, 20268 min read

Collection of Fender electric guitars including Stratocaster and Telecaster

Gear News

The Story Behind Fender's Most Iconic Models

Stratocaster. Telecaster. Jazzmaster. Precision Bass. Fender built the instruments that shaped popular music. Here's the story behind the designs.

James FletcherMay 11, 2026

Vintage tube amplifier with glowing valves in studio setting

Gear News

Tube Amp vs Solid State: What Actually Matters?

The tube vs solid state debate has been running for decades. Here's what the evidence actually says — and what matters most for your playing.

James FletcherMay 11, 2026

Gear News

Why Marshall Amps Still Define Rock Tone

From the JTM45 to the JCM800, Marshall's amplifiers have powered the greatest rock records ever made. Here's why their sound remains irreplaceable.

James FletcherMay 11, 2026

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