Hybrid Series
The Made in Japan Hybrid Series, announced in November 2017, included two electric guitar models—the Stratocaster and Telecaster—and two electric bass models—the Jazz Bass and Precision Bass.
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Like the Made in Japan Traditional Series, this series is produced under the overall direction of Chris Fleming.
These guitars had relatively modern specifications that set them apart from the Made in Japan Traditional series. While retaining their vintage looks, they featured modern specifications such as U.S.-made pickups, a flat fingerboard radius, a satin-finished neck, and medium-jumbo frets, which made them versatile for any player and musical style--truly living up to the name “Hybrid.” |
“For many years, Fender’s Japanese instruments have attracted attention both in Japan and overseas. Since we launched the Made in Japan Series in 2017, demand for Japanese-made models has grown even further, and they’ve become favorites among many players,” said Edward ‘Bud’ Cole, President of Fender Music Asia Pacific.
“This new series reflects feedback from previous Japanese-made models and delivers a high-quality instrument that blends the original U.S. Fender DNA with the unique evolution of Made in Japan. We hope this will give long-time fans—and players who have never experienced a Japanese-made Fender before—the chance to discover Made in Japan quality for themselves.”
Edward Cole
Hybrid II Series
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In March 2021, Fender released the Made in Japan Hybrid II Series as the successor to the Made in Japan Hybrid Series. It represented the perfect blend of precision craftsmanship and thoughtful modernization. Every detail was designed to enhance comfort, tone, and versatility while keeping the familiar Fender feel that players love.
The body shape of the Hybrid II instruments was crafted using U.S. design data, resulting in a refined contour that provided a smoother, more ergonomic fit around the player’s elbow. |
The familiar “Modern C” neck profile returned, this time paired with narrow-tall frets that felt comfortable in the hand and reduced fatigue—especially appreciated by Japanese players. The fingerboard edges were rounded for a better grip on the neck. Combined with the smooth satin finish, the Hybrid II Stratocasters provided a comfortable playing experience.
At the heart of the series were the newly developed Hybrid II Custom Voiced Pickups, engineered to deliver a well-balanced tone and optimal gain across every musical style. A pure-tone jack with four contacts improved connection stability and ensured a cleaner signal path.
In line with Fender Japan’s focus on tone, all models were equipped with orange-drop capacitors, delivering a rich, expressive sound that even the most demanding players could enjoy. The lineup also stood out visually, offering a wide range of finishes—including unique original colors like Modena Red and Forest Blue—that gave the Hybrid II Series its own unmistakable identity.
At the heart of the series were the newly developed Hybrid II Custom Voiced Pickups, engineered to deliver a well-balanced tone and optimal gain across every musical style. A pure-tone jack with four contacts improved connection stability and ensured a cleaner signal path.
In line with Fender Japan’s focus on tone, all models were equipped with orange-drop capacitors, delivering a rich, expressive sound that even the most demanding players could enjoy. The lineup also stood out visually, offering a wide range of finishes—including unique original colors like Modena Red and Forest Blue—that gave the Hybrid II Series its own unmistakable identity.
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“The Made in Japan Hybrid II offers exceptional playability, tonal balance, and value that will appeal to players of all levels,” said Masato Fujikawa, Director of Product Management at FMI Japan. “With its broad range of hybrid guitars suited to every genre, this series stands at the heart of our Japanese-made lineup. It’s a model that will resonate with many players—from beginners to those looking for their second or third instrument. We hope everyone will experience the outstanding craftsmanship and superior playability of these Japanese-made guitars, and enjoy playing them to their heart’s content.”
To celebrate the launch of the Made in Japan Hybrid II, popular artists appeared on Fender’s online news site, FenderNews, starting April 6th, sharing special content about the appeal of the Hybrid II. |
Masato Fujikawa
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The lineup included Five New Old, Faith, Saucy Dog, Tricot, Necry Talkie, Hitsuji Kamigaku, The Peggies, and Yourness. In addition, a giveaway campaign was held on social media.
To further appeal to discerning musicians and collectors, Fender has periodically released limited edition and FSR Hybrid II models, often in collaboration with select Japanese retailers. These instruments not only showcase Fender’s commitment to craftsmanship but also reflect the brand’s responsiveness to market trends and consumer preferences.
To further appeal to discerning musicians and collectors, Fender has periodically released limited edition and FSR Hybrid II models, often in collaboration with select Japanese retailers. These instruments not only showcase Fender’s commitment to craftsmanship but also reflect the brand’s responsiveness to market trends and consumer preferences.
2024 MIJ Hybrid II Collection
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2024 MIJ Hybrid II Stratocaster in Larimar finish
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Antonio Calvosa
