Pro Tone Series

The Squier Pro Tone Series, launched in 1996, was Fender’s bold effort to revive Squier’s reputation after declining Korean-made models and fierce competition in the early ’90s. Designed in Scottsdale and built by Cort in Korea, the Pro Tone guitars featured solid ash bodies, alnico pickups, quality hardware, and eye-catching transparent finishes. They also introduced a refined gold Squier logo, symbolizing pride and independence. Despite their success and strong appeal among players, Pro Tone models overlapped in price with Mexican-made Fenders. To protect its main line, Fender discontinued the series in 1999—ironically ending Squier’s most acclaimed revival.