Fender Musical Instruments Corporation · Scottsdale, AZ United States

Jimi Hendrix's electrified version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" shows what Fender guitars can do. Fender Musical Instruments is the world's #1 maker of stringed instruments (and the nation's #1 maker of solid-body electric guitars, including the Stratocaster and Telecaster lines that have made it a favorite of strummers). Fender also makes instruments, such as acoustic guitars, electric basses, mandolins, banjos, and violins, as well as amplifiers, and PA equipment. Other notable brands include Guild (acoustic and electric guitars), Rodriguez (classical guitars), Benedetto (jazz guitars), and Squier (lower-priced guitars). A management group controls the firm, which acquired KMC Music in late 2007. To read the full description, subscribe now.