When it comes to electric guitars, few names are as iconic as Fender. And within Fender’s legendary lineup, the Telecaster holds a place of honor as the original mass-produced solid-body electric guitar. On the other hand, Larrivée—renowned for its premium acoustic guitars—has made waves with the Baker-T, an electric model that takes clear inspiration from the Telecaster while elevating it with boutique-level craftsmanship and high-end components. This makes a Fender Telecaster vs Larrivee Baker-T side-by-side review interesting.
If you’re intrigued by the comparison between the classic Fender Telecaster and the refined Larrivée Baker-T, this review will help you understand the differences and similarities and which guitar is best for your playing style and goals.
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My Studio
In my studio, I own the Larrivée Baker-T Pro model. It’s a beautiful instrument and features in current recordings I’ve made with Hammersmith Station. I’ve always had a particular soft spot for the sound of Fender guitars and have found a new companion with the Larrivée.
⚖️ Key Similarities
- Telecaster-style body: Both guitars use the classic single-cutaway shape first introduced by Fender. This shape is ergonomic, familiar, and offers great access to higher frets.
- Bolt-on neck construction: Both guitars use a bolt-on neck, contributing to snappy attack and brightness.
- Versatile tone palette: Both are capable of clean, twangy tones as well as biting overdrive sounds, making them suitable for genres ranging from country and blues to indie rock and jazz.
- Two single-coil pickups (in most configurations): While pickup brands may differ, both guitars typically feature two pickups that follow the traditional Tele layout—bridge and neck.
🔍 Key Differences
| Feature | Fender Telecaster | Larrivée Baker-T |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Legacy | Iconic and historically significant | Boutique, lesser-known in the electric world |
| Build Quality | Varies widely (Player Series to Custom Shop) | Consistently high, boutique-level craftsmanship |
| Materials | Alder/Ash body, Maple neck | Premium tonewoods, often with figured tops and custom appointments |
| Pickups | Fender-branded or aftermarket (e.g., in Custom Shop) | Often uses top-tier aftermarket pickups like Seymour Duncan |
| Neck Profile | Varies by model (modern C, soft V, U, etc.) | Often slim to medium C, designed for comfort and speed |
| Tone | Bright, twangy, spanky | Warmer, smoother, more refined |
| Price Range | $700 – $4,000+ | $2,000 – $4,000+ (limited production) |
🎸 Pros & Cons
Fender Telecaster – Pros
- Legendary status and resale value
- Broad range of models at many price points
- Easily customizable
- Great for bright, twangy tones and cutting through a mix
- Timeless aesthetics
Fender Telecaster – Cons
- Lower-end models may lack refinement
- Can sound a bit thin or harsh in some contexts
- Limited tonal versatility without mods
Larrivée Baker-T – Pros
- Boutique craftsmanship and attention to detail
- Rich, warm tone with added clarity and complexity
- Premium hardware and pickups out of the box
- Great feel and balance
- Excellent sustain and dynamic response
Larrivée Baker-T – Cons
- Higher cost with limited availability
- Fewer configuration options compared to Fender
- Lesser-known brand for electrics may affect resale
🎶 Best For…
Fender Telecaster
- Classic rockers, country players, and indie musicians seeking that bright, snappy tone
- Modders and tinkerers who want a customizable platform
- Gigging musicians who want a reliable, battle-tested workhorse
Larrivée Baker-T
- Players who want a high-end Tele-style guitar with more refinement and warmth
- Session musicians and tone purists who need studio-grade sound and build
- Collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate boutique guitars with artisanal attention to detail
🧠 Final Thoughts – Fender Telecaster vs Larrivee Baker-T
The Fender Telecaster is a legend for a reason. It offers killer tones, classic aesthetics, and a legacy that spans decades. It’s a no-brainer for anyone chasing the roots of electric guitar tone or looking for a durable, expressive instrument.
The Larrivée Baker-T, however, is a hidden gem. It brings a touch of luxury and sonic maturity to the Tele template. If you’re looking for something that feels like a Tele but sounds and plays like a boutique dream, the Baker-T may be worth the splurge.
At the end of the day, it’s not about which guitar is “better” overall—it’s about which is better for you.
Thanks for reading this article. Happy playing!
Arthur Dobrucki