There are few more iconic artifacts in the world of rock and blues music than the Fender Stratocaster Electric Guitar. It’s as immediately identifiable within music history as an Elvis Presley bejeweled jumpsuit, Keith Moon’s RAF logo drum kit or David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust outfit. Heading into 2020, Fender is updating the genre-defining instrument with the new Stratocaster American Ultra Series.

Fender created the American Ultra for modern players, employing new technology and fresh understanding of materials and anatomical ergonomics. The result is a guitar that feels like a natural extension of the player’s body — an instrument a musician can embrace and explore by feel.

Fender insists it’s been decades since the company significantly redesigned the iconic Fender Stratocaster or Telecaster models. The major upgrade is the new “Modern D" neck with a compound-radius fingerboard, a smooth satin back finish and finely rolled edges to create a neck that’s more ergonomic and comfortable.

For the beginner or veteran player, the guitar feels lighter and very well-balanced. The idea is an instrument that feels more comfortable immediately and lets the guitarist focus on creating music.

Other new features include new body contours, freshly redesigned noiseless pickups, a “HiMass” bridge with improved serious sustain and intonation, a redesigned preamp and more advanced electronics to create preserve and broadcast sound.

The Stratocaster American Ultra Series is now available with instrument dealers and on line, starting around $1,899.