For many guitar players, Fender is one of the best guitar manufacturers in the world. There’s no denying that Fender has produced some of the most iconic instruments, such as the Mustang, which are loved and used by countless experienced musicians. Renowned guitarists in popular bands often choose Fender as their go-to brand, including legends like Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, John Frusciante, Jeff Beck, and many others. Here are the 3 most popular Fender Guitars to consider on your musical journey.
Mustang
If you’re looking for a guitar with exceptional features that delivers outstanding performance every time, the Mustang is a top choice. It’s a timeless instrument and one of the most popular Fender models ever made. For decades, it has been a favourite among musicians, who appreciate its smooth playability and reliable performance.
In terms of size, the Mustang is a few centimetres shorter than other models, making it perfect for guitarists with smaller hands. The body is crafted from solid wood, typically poplar or alder, while the neck is made of maple with a fingerboard of either pau ferro or rosewood. One of the most recognisable features of the Fender guitar Mustang model is its C-shaped neck profile, which provides a comfortable grip and an effortless playing experience.
The true allure of this guitar lies in its features and attributes. The pickups are a crucial element, offering a range of options to suit different playing styles. The classic single-coil pickups produce a vibrant, crisp sound, while the humbucking pickups deliver a powerful, punchy tone. With a choice between two- or three-pickup setups, players have plenty of options to match their personal preferences. The Mustang is also equipped with an incredible tremolo system, allowing players to add vibrato to their sound for a more expressive performance. The tremolo arm is versatile and easy to use, making it a popular feature among musicians.
Another standout feature of the Mustang is its adjustable bridge, which is essential for maintaining precise tuning. Of course, Fender’s reputation as a distinctive guitar manufacturer is also reflected in the Mustang’s stylish design. Available in several colours and finishes, including black, blue, red, yellow, and white, as well as more modern shades like olive and Olympic white, the Mustang boasts a sleek look that makes an impression both on and off stage. Its professional aesthetic and craftsmanship are qualities that many musicians simply can’t resist.
Road Worn
The Road Worn series was released in 2009 and has remained popular ever since. This series is inspired by the instruments Fender produced in the 1950s and 1960s, offering a vintage look and feel. Fender designed the Road Worn series for those who want a high-quality guitar that’s easily accessible and suitable for playing on the go.
The ’50s Stratocaster in the Road Worn series features a beautifully distressed body and neck, with old-school hardware such as aged knobs, synthetic bone nuts, and vintage styling that enhances its aged appearance. It has an alder body and a maple neck with a soft V shape, complemented by a maple fingerboard. The chrome hardware adds a nice finishing touch to the overall look.
The ’60s Stratocaster is quite similar to the ’50s version, with a C-shaped neck and an alder body available in finishes like three-color Sunburst and Olympic white. The series also includes the ’50s Telecaster, featuring a three-position blade switch, an ash body, and a sleek lacquer finish. Rounding out the collection are the ’60s Jazz Bass and the ’50s Precision Bass, both showcasing vintage designs and aesthetics.
Jazzmaster
The Jazzmaster collection is one of Fender’s most popular and sought-after lines. Known for its unique sound and distinctive appearance, the Jazzmaster was developed in the 1960s. It quickly gained acceptance and popularity, not only among jazz musicians but also among guitarists of all genres. Like the Mustang series, the Jazzmaster offers an elegant and balanced option for every player.
What sets the Jazzmaster apart is its incredibly comfortable offset body, jangly pickups, unique vibrato mechanism, and sophisticated electronics, which provide a wide range of tones. These features combine to give the Jazzmaster remarkable versatility. Originally embraced as an indie rock and alternative guitar, it soon gained popularity across all genres.
The Jazzmaster’s body shape is particularly distinctive, designed for comfort both when sitting and standing. The body features an arm contour, a belly cut, and a nearly non-existent lower horn, allowing players easy access to the upper frets.
In terms of electronics, the Jazzmaster includes some unique components that offer a wide range of tonal possibilities. Its large, rectangular pickups have wide and flat bobbins with bar magnets, resulting in more midrange frequencies and higher output. The Jazzmaster also features two sets of controls: the rhythm circuit and the lead circuit, allowing for a diverse array of sound options.
Another unique feature is the Jazzmaster’s bridge, often referred to as a “rocking bridge.” This design prevents the strings from rubbing against the saddles by rocking back and forth when the vibrato is used. The vibrato system itself is distinct because it includes a locking mechanism, preventing it from floating or moving in both directions. These innovative features make the Jazzmaster truly one of a kind.
