Unusual HM Strat

[heem6]

Ok, here's a very unusual HM Strat. Still made in the FujiGen Gakki factory alongside the Ibanez guitars, these were like a 3rd or 4th generation version of the HM. 22 frets, pickguard, one of the ugliest headstocks ever released, they're probably actually really good guitars.

Most of these were released under the the Heartfield, or Heartfield by Fender brand name.



cgi.ebay.com/USED-FENDER-HM-STRAT-RED-MAPLE-NECK-HARDSHELL-CASE_W0QQitemZ290312662348QQcmdZViewItemQQptZGuitar?hash=item290312662348&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1318|301%3A1|293%3A1|294%3A50

[halo71]

I kinda like that head stock. I never really thought of these as HM's though, didn't know that they were really. Heartfield Talon I thought was a completely different model. Either way I really like it. And you can sure see some Ibanez in that pickguard ehh?

[heem6]

You sure can!

Well, I just discovered something new! The All Access Neck Joint was invented by Fender and FujiGen, not Ibanez. The Heartfield Talons had the AANJ as early as 1990 and Ibanez didn't include them on the RG's until 1994.

Also, these were apparently 25.1" scale lengths, so I guess they do qualify for HM status. Sort of.

[heem6]

Slight correction. I now see the AANJ was used on the Heartfield EX-1 back in 1989.

[nhspike]

I have one in rosewood.
They are listed in the Fender catalog as an HM, so that's what I figure it is.
Wait until I get my HM Tele!
That will really blow your mind!
LOL

[heem6]

I wouldn't mind picking up one of the Heartfield's. I like 24 fretters so I'd prolly go with the Talon II.

Since these were made in the same factory, it seems like they would be similar in quality to a Prestige series Ibanez. Maybe better.

[nhspike]

This one is an amazing guitar.
I'm going to do the TBX tone mod, which is supposed to really improve the tone control.

[nickwellings]

May 8, 2009 6:03:12 GMT -5 nhspike said:

This one is an amazing guitar.
I'm going to do the TBX tone mod, which is supposed to really improve the tone control.

I did the TBX on a Mexi Strat with master tone.

It is definitely different from the stock, but imo, perhaps not as useful?

Very hard for me to describe what it sounds like. Seems to maintain the treble throughout, nearly. But your experience may differ of course! I'd love to know how you find it. I haven't experimented too much with mine through a loud amp at all.