Originally introduced in 1956 as a student-model guitar, the Fender Duo-Sonic quickly earned a reputation for its short-scale comfort, stripped-down simplicity, and surprisingly versatile tone. By 1962, the Duo-Sonic featured refined appointments and classic Fender styling, making it more than just a beginner's instrument—especially by today's standards! With its dual single-coil pickups, 22.5" scale length, and slab body design, the Duo-Sonic offers a unique blend of clarity, punch, and playability that has made it a favorite among players and collectors alike.
This Fender Duo-Sonic dates to 1962. The original finish has been stripped, and the guitar has been refinished with simple natural lacquer that shows off the Alder grain. We call this a "Hippie Refin," and it looks just right on a real '60s relic. The Rosewood fingerboard is a veneer that matches the radius—instead of the earlier slab board—and it has clay dots. Normally you have to pay a big price for authentic pre-CBS details, but a vibey Duo-Sonic like this is so much more accessible than a Strat or Tele from the same era.
Along with the refinish, an after-market pearloid guard provides just the right flash against the flat natural lacquer. All of the parts and electronics appear to be original, and the pots date to the 31st week of 1962. Underneath the pickguard, the original metal underplate is in use and all of the parts function as they should. The original tuners have the proper white plastic buttons, the bridge is original, and the serial number stamped on the neck plate is 89178, which corresponds to 1962 according to the Gruhn/Carter book.
This 1962 Fender Duo-Sonic plays well with nice action. The frets are worn, but the neck is still very playable. The 22.5" scale makes it great around the living room, and the short-scale feel will inspire new licks and ideas, too. Plugged-in, the original single-coil pickups deliver a sound that is distinctly Fender, but just different enough from a Strat or a Tele. The neck pickup resistance measures 5.36 k ohms, and the bridge measures 6.30 k ohms. Through an amp, the pickups sound balanced in all three positions.
This 1962 Fender Duo-Sonic includes a period hardshell case, which smells a little bit like cigarette smoke. A pre-CBS Fender guitar for under $3k? That's a rare find these days! This Duo-Sonic is a lot of fun.