Eric Johnson reflects on his groundbreaking Thinline Stratocaster design choices

Eric Johnson's 2018 signature model, the Thinline Stratocaster, was the first semi-hollow Fender Strat. Johnson admits he did not explore many design options and would approach it differently if he created another model, possibly inspired by Gibson. The Thinline Stratocaster features a custom-chambered design with traditional contours. Johnson aimed for specific specs, including a unique neck profile and tone control on the bridge pickup, to differentiate his guitar from others. While the Thinline design is rare in Fender's lineup, it has been reimagined in various forms, including the 2023 Suona line. Johnson's models include a powerful pickup design that enhances sound quality.