Pau Ferro done right is beautiful. Had some before CITIES and it was like ebony in feel. Fender just didn't spend the time on them and they were dry and rough on the Mexico stuff. So everyone remembers Pau Ferro as rough, but orange streaks and dry. Which isn't true. Plus the benefit was that it wasn't an endangered/overharvested species of tree.
@ericsanders5357 well I hope the price doesn't rise up to 400$! Right now Player 1 necks are sold for 300$. For me the deal is to have a Jazzmaster neck with 22 frets and rosewood, which you can't easily find unless you go custom or warmoth (Which is not viable in EU where I live)
Congrats bro, many more to come. There’s is a pretty big void of gear demos of this play style, I look forward to pedal, amp and guitar reviews to come
There’s something about how you isolated your pedals’ colors when indicating what you’ll be using that really hits me in a good spot. The slow fade of other colors felt so slow/smooth that I didn’t even notice it at first but my eyes had no effort in focusing on the pedal you were indicating. A weird observation, maybe, but I just really really liked it and it just wouldn’t leave my mind, lol. It just feels different from others that do it too, and honestly yours is the answer to Plato’s Form in my eyes. The rest of the video’s great, too!
I sold my CIJ / JM66 a few months back , and this one is making me miss it much less. The neck and fingerboard on that guitar was sooo good, but these new Player II JMs have a really similarly comfy neck and board. And I personally don't miss the rhythm circuit, so having the toggle is kind of a perk ha. Great vid Jason!!
@@AmbientEndeavors dude!!! I still regret not buying your JM! And these guitars are amazing! I was super impressed by the quality. And dude! Your video was the first one I watched! Thanks for always being a solid friend!
That's a really nice refresh! Improvements in just the right places, and I like the simplified controls! My favorite so far was the MIJ Hybrid II, but if you say the pickups are better on the Player II and the quality is on the same level, if that's true, that's awesome news! Especially considering it's cheaper as well! The only things I prefer on the MIJ Hybrid II is the pickup toggle position and maybe the fact that it's MIJ - I just trust them more because the Mexico factory produced lots of lemons recently.
Yea, the pickups are on these retain that jazzmaster jangle and they sound a lot better than I expected. Which is the case with the Vintera II as well. I loved my hybrid II but for the same money this is kind of a no brainer unless you want the exclusive MIJ finishes. But it’s also worth considering that the MIJ will retain its value more than MIM.
Love your videos and your playing! Probably time to get me another Jazzmaster to compliment my CME classic player in lake placid blue, thank goodness they brought rosewood back!
Thank you!!! 🙏🏾 I appreciate the kind words. I think this would be a perfect compliment to the classic player. And yes!!! The return of the king aka rosewood!!!! 👑
I’m currently saving for the Vintera II 50’s JM. Loved this video and it sounds great, I’m just not sure that I’d take this version over the VII JM. Comparison video would be good 😉 Kudos to Fender for not only bringing back RW but the rolled frets are a nice addition.
Honestly, go for the Vintera II if you want a vintage accurate representation of the Jazzmaster! The Vintera II is an awesome guitar and I think I'll definitely do a comparison video sooner than later.
@@JasonTMays I think you’re right as I’m leaning more towards vintage accuracy. I’m predominantly a Strat guy. I’ll likely buy another one in my lifetime 😂 Outside of maybe buying the Cobain signature, as im a Nirvana fan, I’m not buying another Jag because i have my Fender Vintera 60s Jaguar Modified HH. I love my surf green Vintera 🏄♂️ The Vintera JM would, barring something unforeseen, be my only JM. I’m not sure I want a contemporary take on it based on that. Doesn’t take away from the Player II being a great guitar.
Love the look of this, that red looks great! Definitely like this more than the Player 1 Jazzmaster with the humbuckers. Currently have no plans on upgrading from my Classic Vibe Jazzmaster, but this would be a solid option!
It's basically the Tele formula (two pickups, one volume, one tone, and a 3 way switch) in a Jazzmaster. I have a Xaviere JT 100 (pretty upgraded) and this would be the closet version to that guitar. The only knock I can put on this is the off white plastics with the white pickguard looks off. Black covers and two black witch hat knobs would look way better on this. Cool guitar amigo!😎👍✨
You know, I need to get my hands on one of those Xaviere JT’s. I’ve been curious about them and some of the Harley Benton stuff. But, I agree in terms of looks. I don’t mind it as much, but I am thinking of putting a tort guard on here cause I have one from decoboom. But thanks bud. 😬
@@JasonTMays The JT is worth trying out. It's made pretty well but since it is made in an overseas factory it still has some of the cheapo problems. I don't know why they used off white knobs but I put on the pearloid and chrome UFO knobs instead. The pots that come on it are 500k pots, definitely worth upgrading to 1 Meg CTS pots (they also dropped right in on the pickguard, no need to reem it). At this point the pickups really open up and you get a guitar that sounds much more like a Jazzmaster. The pickups are the same as GFS sells and many people replace Squier and MIM Fender Jazzmaster pickups with these, no complaints, the bridge has a Twangy bite and the neck is warm and full. For my mods I put in locking tuners, Graph Tech string trees, a Decoboom surf neck plate, CTS 1 Meg pots, an Orange Drop 47 capacitor, a Switchcraft jack, and a JD Moon metal three way switch. I also shielded the cavity with copper tape. What is left is that I want to buy a Halon bridge (Tele style three barrel brass bridge) and Tremolo. I am mainly a Tele guy but I have been very happy with the JT 100 that I modded (I am learning luthier skills and I am upgrading Import guitars with US specced electrics and better than stock pickups which I call my "Primo Cheapos"). Stock the JT 100 is somewhere in-between a Squier and a MIM Fender. The body and neck are pretty good (I did have to "fill and redrill" one of the neck screws (the one on the far corner, whoever made it fudged up twice and and both needed to be filled and then properly aligned to redrill)) and the pickups sound great once you upgrade to 1 Meg pots. As my guitar stands right now I think it would give this Jazzmaster a run for its money. Once I have the Halon parts I think it will surpass this model. That said it still has an Import feel to it (I've owned many Import guitars and they feel pretty familiar to me). I hope this helps. I don't have any Harley Benton, but I do own two IYV Thinline Tele style guitars that come out of the same Vietnam factory as some of the HBs do. They are part of my "Primo Cheapos" and they are "Ok" as stock but much better just keeping the neck and body and replacing everything else.
@gringogreen4719 Jazzmasters usually have 2 pickups, 1 volume knob, 1 tone knob, and a 3 way switch. Rather than the stretch of it being like a Tele, just say it’s a normal JM minus the rhythm circuit.
Yeah. That is a killer guitar. Especially with the Rosewood neck. Oh, and sadly when we were talking Casino or Starcaster... I went Casino. It just fit me better. The Starcaster is amazing, but I just felt it was an awkward fit to my my smaller frame. That being said, still happy with the decision and an absolute thank you for the conversation. I just wish it would have fit better
@@christophervincent8420 dude!!! The rosewood FEELS so much better on the fingers. I’m so glad fender got rid of Paul Faro. And no worries, I’m happy you went with what suits YOU! I love the starcaster, but the Casino is an amazing guitar! If it inspires you to play then thats a win in my book! 👌🏾
that mustang bridge is a massive upgrade in my opinion. as much as i love my player jazzmaster, that adjustable bridge has literally shredded the side of my hand a few times when playing live. the show must go on and all that, but it’s definitely not ideal to pick bits of torn skin out of your saddles, not to mention the triple antibiotic and bandages on your picking hand. i’m definitely considering getting one of these, particularly that green one. maybe even pairing it with that yellow jaguar… decisions, decisions
I was hoping it would have the rhythm circuit. I love the blue finish option, and the rolled fretboard. I have the Player Plus Strat and the rolled fretboard makes an enormous difference in comfort and helps me bar chords.
I agree!!! I didn’t realize how comfy a rolled fretboard could be until this guitar! I kind of wish I would’ve given the Player Plus series another chance but they didn’t have a Jazzmaster so I kind of just skipped over it.
Ha, i was thinking finally someone with music taste and not a bloody blues player on a Jazzmaster, then the dad rock thing, hilarious. Nice review thanks, no rhythm circuit switch, weird, but i wouldn't miss it either.
I just ordered one in aquatone blue. I love the red but it wasn't available and I feel the next best color is the blue one. I'm looking forward to getting it this week. I'll tell ya how it goes!
Overall it's a nice looking guitar. I prefer a RC but it's not a deal breaker. I am not sure why Fender thinks moving the vibrato closer to the bridge is an improvement. I know the purpose is to increase break angle for the strings but the same can be achieved with a proper guitar setup. If you angle the neck and raise the bridge it works great. It seems like a solution to a problem that really isn't a problem.
Thanks. I do prefer the vintage style trem placement. But, I can see their logic behind this because I think it's aimed to be user friendly for people who aren't typically into offsets and just want to get their feet wet.
It sounds really nice and congrats on the milestone!! No Rhy tho 😩 I get some folks don’t want Rhy switches tho and contemporary can exist without it. The colors are great too.
Thank you!!! And yea, I know the no rhythm is a dealbreaker for some, but there’s the Vintera II for that crowd. The colors are super nice! I was super impressed with the finishes.
Hey man awesome review, enjoyed your comparison of the player vs player 2 as well. I might get downvoted for this question... But the player 2 has almost everything I'm looking for in a JM (it would be my first JM guitar) but the thing is, I'm super not into any of the color options. Do you think it would be a big hassle to do a custom paint job if I get my hands on the player 2? The buttercream color of the player 1 is exactly what I'd want... Thanks so much!
Not at all!!!! It might be a bit costly, but it wouldn’t be difficult. Or, ones the parts start showing up on stratosphere, you could get a Player 2 neck with a buttercream player one body. Hope this helps and gives you some thoughts.
Man, I love this guitar. Love my teles and strat, but it's either this one or a mustang for me. Just want something a bit different. Thanks for the great demo. Keep going.
@@JasonTMays I will for sure brother. Wanted to tell you I really dug your choice of voicings during the demo. I can hear your voice clearly. And...that guitar sounds so mint. Might have to grab that first and then the Stang. Hit me up too and maybe we could do some cool collabs for our channels .Always great to meet other rad musicians. Keep going
@@mrelmoresmusiclab DUDE! thank you for the kind words! That means the world to me because I am very self conscious about my playing. And I would LOVE to collaborate on a few ideas. LETS GO!!! I love meeting new friends and I hope you get both! Please keep me updated! if anything whats your insta handle? Im far more active on there.
Hey! And thank you! 🙏🏾 I do release music with my band Young Mountain. Outside of that I have an electronic lofi solo thingy called DREAMHAUS the EP is called “Lovers: (a lofi film score)” But I’ve thought about releasing music on my own stuff that I play on that channel.
Thank you!!! Gotta love Radiohead!! All I ask is that Whenever you decide to buy just use one of my links cause that helps me out a ton!!! Please and thank you! 🙏🏾
I've not been a fan of the player series but these look pretty good. Rosewood, yes plz!! Only thing I'm not loving are the washer looking things around the pegs.. But all in all, this will be a huge win for fender I think..
@@nastybandit322 Firstly, thank you! actually filmed a review for the player 2 mustang! Idk when it’s coming out. I will say the player 2 mustang is a solid choice, I have my grievances with it lacking the mustang bridge, but otherwise it’s great! I hope you enjoy yours!
Woah, as a Jazzmaster curious player I was ALL set to pull the trigger on a J Mascis JM when my next paycheck arrives but now I’m seriously considering holding off another month and throwing the extra couple of hundred down on one of these.
I like the pickups in the J Mascis better, they are punchy and mean and roadhouse and rock. This one is good if you want more of the classic Jazzmaster sound.
@@JasonTMays The truth is both are stellar for the money. And you are one of the best, most likable dudes in the RUclips guitar space brother. Keep cranking out the killer content!
@@GeoffByrdMusic thank you my friend!!! That means a lot cause I know RUclips has a bunch of cool guitar personalities, so it makes me happy to know I’m doing a good job! 👏🏾
I have a classic vibes jazzmaster with a maple neck I found used, and the neck pickup sounds REALLY icepicky like you described, with a little treble boost it sounds way louder than playing the bridge pickup and I use the neck for lead playing instead, ironically. I think it must be an older classic vibes model because it doesnt sound like my new classic vibe jazz. Do you know what makes it get that really sharp sound? I prefer it, it really makes the attack for my playing really stand out.
Honestly, I’m not entirely sure. But I do believe it’s probably the maple, I had a similar experience with the V-Mod pickups, they sound incredibly ice picky with a maple neck, but in a rosewood neck guitar it’s a lot less ice picky/sharp. That would be my guess, but again I’m not entirely sure.
The pros: ~ Rosewood is back! ~ Dot inlays ~ Mustang bridge is a no-brainer instead of the terrible vintage threaded saddles ~ Pickups seem good ~ Getting rid of the lock button on the vibrato plate simplifies things, since players are far less likely to break a string when using a Mustang bridge The cons: ~ They moved the tremolo plate forward to increase the string break angle over the bridge, which has historically been a problem when setting up Jazzmasters. Technically, it's a sound move. But I doubt it will please the traditionalists and vintage diehards. ~ Poly finish instead of nitrocellulose. ~ "Classic Gear" tuners? I wish they'd just used vintage Klusons, which are simpler and have stood the test of time ~ I wish the neck had the beefier "60's C" shape instead of the flatter "Modern C" ~ No rhythm circuit makes it arguable whether this is a "real" Jazzmaster since that feature is so crucial to the "DNA" of the JM. Overall, it's a good choice for guitarists new to the Jazzmaster, with the caveat that they understand that it's not a classic Jazzmaster but rather a contemporary and lower budget spin on the model.
Yea, I concur for the most part. However, I had to take a step back and realize this isn’t a traditional Jazzmaster so I cant really judge it as such. But yea, It’s definitely a solid choice for anyone new to the offset/Jazzmaster experience.
I don't see how poly instead of nitro can be considered a con on a sub $1000 MIM Fender, most non-custom shop MIA Fenders don't even have nitro. I do wish it had a RM, but most famous JM players just taped over it anyway so it's not really a big deal.
'No rhythm circuit makes it arguable whether this is a "real" Jazzmaster since that feature is so crucial to the "DNA" of the JM.' So crucial that most players ignore it or tape it over or mod it to be a killswitch?
Love your videos. Had no idea what “dad rock,” was until today. I guess anything vintage sounding has a bias term for it now. They are just chords and notes. Anyway, this model is great, but I have too many Jazzmasters already.
Great review! I had to watch it twice because I got distracted trying to figure out where I recognized that Radiohead riff from. As a Jazzmaster aficionado, have you played a G&L Doheny? That's what I think of when I hear 'contemporary update to the Jazzmaster'. At $830, that puts the Player II just above the Tribute series Doheny ($700ish) with similar specs. Sounds like there's a lot to like about the Player II, and if I had my way the Doheny would have a Mastery or Descendant style upgraded JM vibrato to make it 'modern' rather than the Strat style trem, but the JM/MFD pickups and passive treble/bass controls kind of make it a toss up for me. It would be cool to hear them head to head as different takes on what Modern Jazzmaster could mean.
I might as well add a third comment because I forgot something: I strongly suggest installing a Free Way Model 3X3-05 six-position toggle switch and wiring it according to Scheme No. 0039 (in the "2PU 2Pot PP B" PDF, no idea why they only included that scheme for the switch with an unrelated push/pull example).
i am lefthanded and next week i am going to a luthier to build my first jazzmaster. would you recommend the Fender CuNiFe Wide Range Jazzmaster Pickup Set? i almost exclusively recording Alternative Rock music and hate 60 cycle hum and noise. i already have a tele with noiseless pickups and i totally love them. Thanks!!!!!!!! by the way i watched your demo with the wide range pickups and they sound superb!
@@MitsosChaveles ABSOLUTELY!!!! I love those pickups! And for the style you mentioned they should easily excel at that. Just remember the pot value, 1meg is what I recommend but I do like a the 500k with the CuNife. Thank you!! I really appreciate that my video was helpful! Thank you! 🙏🏾
@@FilmFlam Nah, it still has the vibrato assembly and JM pickups. And most importantly, it still sounds like a Jazzmaster. But I can understand for some, a lack of a rhythm circuit is a deal breaker and for those they would feel it’s lesser. But for most, I think it’ll be fine.
Glad you enjoy it! I’m sure there’s a few of the old school Player Series floating around if you really want one. But, whenever you do decide to get one please keep my links in mind, it helps me out and I’d definitely appreciate that and give you a digital high five! 🙌🏾
I love the rhythm circuit, though know I'm in the minority. That said, it doesn't have to be on every JM, just as you don't need a wiggle stick on every Strat, nor an air of superiority with every Tele. I'm not the biggest Fiesta Red fan, and while this is noticeably different, it's not different enough for me. Thanks for the video guys! Look forward to the WCM comparison.
@@oldmanzen6682 I agree!!! I like that we have different flavors of the Jazzmaster. I like that almost every price point fender has both modern and vintage options. There’s always the classic black option which looks amazing! And thanks! Nelson and I had a blast making the WCM episode and that should drop on Friday.
Thanks for the useful sound samples. Sounds like a JM I might like to own. That said, I wonder how it might differ sound-wise from a MiJ Traditional Late 60s. Not sure what pickups the MiJ has, but I figure the ones in the new Player II might be a bit closer to original ones? Would love to get your take on this, as a guy who values jangle and clarity (also because I tune all my guitars down to C# standard and slap 13s D‘Addario Medium Jazz strings on the, so don‘t want to sacrifice any clarity).
@@scottbecker3485 Thank you! 😊 and funny enough i have a FSR MIJ traditional 60s and I can say they’re quite different. I love both, but I think the Player II is definitely the more comfortable guitar feel wise. In terms of pickups, the Player II also wins there. But, the MIJ is also one of my all time favorites.
@@JasonTMays Wow - thanks a million for your prompt and illuminating response! (Subbed.) Great to hear, although this is going to now „force“ me (ahem) to spend some money on yet another guitar…. ;-) But then again, it gives me a good excuse to finally get a JM in Sunburst, since my MiJ is in blue. And I wasn‘t using the rhythm circuit, anyhow. Plus, the new Player 2 has the Mustang-style bridge, which will helpfully not rattle like the one on my MiJ (which I will soon replace with a new JAM Bridge by Kiss My Strings).
@@scottbecker3485 Dude, do you have the sonic blue MIJ with matching headstock? cause that's the same one I have. But, no problem! I love talking Jazzmasters. But so far the new mustang bridge has been solid, no rattle. I almost kind of regret not getting the sunburst finish because I dont own a guitar in that finish. but thank you for the sub and just being awesome. Much appreciated.
@@JasonTMays Happy your bridge is rattle-free so far! And yes, fine sir, we’ve got the same Sonic Blue MiJ‘s. 😎 May your life one day be gifted with a Sunburst JM, too. 🌅🙏🏼
JM without rhythm circuit is not a JM. I know many people do not use it, but even using it as a kill switch is a feature. It's a part part of what the JM is. Without it you might as well play a strat for the extra pickup
What makes a JM is the style, the pickups and the trem system, the RM is nice to have but it's an entirely unnecessary gimmick and not at all essential to a JM.
@@epitaph3988 there's a billion different single coil pickups in the world and at this point you'd be hard pressed to draw a box around what a "jazzmaster pickup" even sounds like. I love the JM, it's my favorite guitar, but there are other trem systems, trem pedals, plenty of JM-like pickups. The RM is literally the most unique thing about that guitar, besides the style. Style is important but that aside I don't see the value of an RMless Jazzmaster over a strat
@@KeithJCarberry1 "but that aside I don't see the value of an RMless Jazzmaster over a strat" uhhh it has different pickups and a different trem system? They're different guitars dude, I really don't get this point you're trying to make. By this logic you might as well say there's no point in getting a tele or a mustang instead of a strat.
@@epitaph3988 i play my tele because i like playing my tele. i play my JM because i like playing my JM. They have different ergonomics and different weights and different looks and color, but they come out of the factory sounding different because that's how fender, or anyone, sells guitars. pickups are a bunch of electrical/magnetic differences that come out as "output" and you can easily make a tele sound like a strat or a strat sound like a JM or whatever. fwiw i put the old "dark circuit" into my tele because i think that offers something unique, instead of the typical neck/both/bridge setup, and of course i love the trem system of the jazzmaster and the rhythm circuit. these are features. the actual thing that makes one guitar interesting over another guitar, besides style. if i couldnt have the rhythm circuit, maybe it's worth it for the trem. to me, i like the 5 switch feature on a strat and i think that's more important than a slightly better trem. if i wanted a strat with a trem that sounded pretty much like a jazzmaster, that's a very solvable thing and to me much more interesting. that's all im saying
@@TimothyDohner admittedly im biased in terms of the vintera II cause late 50s jazzmasters are my favorite guitars. But i do prefer the neck and radius of the player 2.
@@Melskeybored These pickups sound far more like a Jazzmaster and the Pickups in the Squier JMJM are P90s. If you play more rock/distorted tones the JMJM might be the better option, but I found both to be very good options. I prefer the Player II pickups by far!
Love those new player II But i have a question… The neck its in the thin side or Chunky side? Cuz i had the player I jaguar And The neck was very chunky And honestly didn’t like it so i sold it (honestly was an awful Guitar And i prefer so much my Squier CV jaguar than the player I 😔) Sorry for my english, its not my mother laguange Love your videos Jason 🖤
@@massenoire6667 No worries, I just appreciate it. The Player II sits right in the middle. It’s thicker than the Squier but not as chunky as a vintera II. I like the necks so far, they feel really comfortable.
I would probably go with the AmPro2 only because it's a better balance of both modern and vintage features. And I can changes the pots and pickups rather easily. I do think the pickups on the Player II and Vintera II are more Jazzmaster sounding than the AmPro2.
@@JasonTMays thanks for the answer, i have an AM pro ii but I was really tempted for buying a vintera for something more traditional or a proper american jag (if fender released one), I think I can continue saving my money
@@amq1996 Not a problem, definitely save your pennies cause you can easily mod the AmPro2 to be a more traditional JM. low-key the AV2 is definitely missing a Jaguar.
None of the player IIs come in left-handed, Fender used to represent the lefties more in the MiM range outside of Strats and Teles. The only MiM Offset you can get now from Fender is a Jag-Stang which I like mine :) But I dont want to drop $$$ for a new US Jazzmaster. I wish this JM and the new player Jaguar had at least 1 color in lefty!
Ohhh, I’ve got some thoughts about the Jagstang. lol. 🙃 But, who knows…perhaps we aren’t seeing the entirety of the rollout…I hope they do at least one lefty offset in the player line up.
Thanks! I love Radiohead and I figured they’d be perfect for this demo! Glad you enjoyed it! I’ll definitely incorporate more Radiohead riffs in future demos!
I understand, but If they did put the rhythm circuit in there it would've definitely increased the price. I wish as a good compromise they would've kept the routing for the rhythm circuit.
Pickups are definitely a bit more overwound and spicer on the Player II. The Vintera II are definitely more late 50s era and dark sounding. I like both a lot! I think the P2 pickups are far better than the Pure Vintage and J Mascis pickups.
@@JasonTMays thanks Jason! Looking forward to the WCM shoot out. Btw - are u guy having trouble with the YT algorithm? WCM doesn’t appear in my feed the way it used to.
@@Kulturmatt Thanks! the WCM episode was a fun time. Nelson and I were shocked by the results. I've heard that from a few folks and I dont know. I think that might be happening.
![Jack Harlow - Hello Miss Johnson [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q86_nlRoIGw/mqdefault.jpg)
God bless Fender for bringing the rosewood back!
BIG FACTS!!!!
Pau Ferro done right is beautiful. Had some before CITIES and it was like ebony in feel. Fender just didn't spend the time on them and they were dry and rough on the Mexico stuff. So everyone remembers Pau Ferro as rough, but orange streaks and dry. Which isn't true. Plus the benefit was that it wasn't an endangered/overharvested species of tree.
Hopefully they have used up their entire stock of pau ferro.
If Pau ferro was good enough for srv then it’s good enough for me 🤷🏼♀️
@@ghost_java35I just haven’t played a Fender with a good example of pao ferro, so rosewood is a welcomed return.
I use weird fishes to test every piece of gear so this was wild for me
Dude!!!! Great minds! lol. But, yea every guitar I play has to pass the Radiohead test!
Can't wait for the release of this necks sold individually!
I know the parts community is gonna go nuts once these start popping up on Stratosphere
I just want them to release a left handed neck.
@ericsanders5357 well I hope the price doesn't rise up to 400$! Right now Player 1 necks are sold for 300$. For me the deal is to have a Jazzmaster neck with 22 frets and rosewood, which you can't easily find unless you go custom or warmoth (Which is not viable in EU where I live)
Congrats bro, many more to come. There’s is a pretty big void of gear demos of this play style, I look forward to pedal, amp and guitar reviews to come
Thank you!!!! I seriously appreciate that! I’m trying to do more demos in this style so that means a lot to me. Thank you! 🙏🏾
Weird Fishes dude. Sounds like a freaking Jazzmaster. I dig it.
Radiohead for life!!!! Thanks bud! 🙏🏾
There’s something about how you isolated your pedals’ colors when indicating what you’ll be using that really hits me in a good spot. The slow fade of other colors felt so slow/smooth that I didn’t even notice it at first but my eyes had no effort in focusing on the pedal you were indicating. A weird observation, maybe, but I just really really liked it and it just wouldn’t leave my mind, lol. It just feels different from others that do it too, and honestly yours is the answer to Plato’s Form in my eyes. The rest of the video’s great, too!
Thanks! I know my editor Nelson would appreciate that. It's all him.
I’ve never seen your channel before this video, and I have to say that your Playstation 1 opening REELED ME IN LOL
lol!!! Dude! That’s how I get ya to stay.
I sold my CIJ / JM66 a few months back , and this one is making me miss it much less. The neck and fingerboard on that guitar was sooo good, but these new Player II JMs have a really similarly comfy neck and board. And I personally don't miss the rhythm circuit, so having the toggle is kind of a perk ha. Great vid Jason!!
@@AmbientEndeavors dude!!! I still regret not buying your JM! And these guitars are amazing! I was super impressed by the quality. And dude! Your video was the first one I watched! Thanks for always being a solid friend!
i wish more guitar reviewers do it like this, really makes the guitar shine.
@@neilfordan thank you!!! I definitely appreciate the kind words. 😬
Love your style and channel. Really nice video, truly enjoyed it!
Thank you so much! 😊 seriously appreciate the kind words!
I’m not a guitar player but I’ve been learning quite a bit thanks to your videos and reviews. Great job ❤
Thank you!!!! That makes me happy because I definitely wanted this channel to be a bit more educational.
That's a really nice refresh! Improvements in just the right places, and I like the simplified controls! My favorite so far was the MIJ Hybrid II, but if you say the pickups are better on the Player II and the quality is on the same level, if that's true, that's awesome news! Especially considering it's cheaper as well! The only things I prefer on the MIJ Hybrid II is the pickup toggle position and maybe the fact that it's MIJ - I just trust them more because the Mexico factory produced lots of lemons recently.
Yea, the pickups are on these retain that jazzmaster jangle and they sound a lot better than I expected. Which is the case with the Vintera II as well. I loved my hybrid II but for the same money this is kind of a no brainer unless you want the exclusive MIJ finishes. But it’s also worth considering that the MIJ will retain its value more than MIM.
Love your videos and your playing! Probably time to get me another Jazzmaster to compliment my CME classic player in lake placid blue, thank goodness they brought rosewood back!
Thank you!!! 🙏🏾 I appreciate the kind words. I think this would be a perfect compliment to the classic player. And yes!!! The return of the king aka rosewood!!!! 👑
Very nice review and well choice for the examples. WOuld you say is quiet or does it hum a lot?
Thank you!!!! And it's fairly quiet, not a crap ton of hum clean.
Nice to see the return of rosewood. Can’t argue with that price. Fantastic demo!
Thank you!!! And agree, same price point and rosewood! gotta love it!
I’m currently saving for the Vintera II 50’s JM. Loved this video and it sounds great, I’m just not sure that I’d take this version over the VII JM. Comparison video would be good 😉
Kudos to Fender for not only bringing back RW but the rolled frets are a nice addition.
Honestly, go for the Vintera II if you want a vintage accurate representation of the Jazzmaster! The Vintera II is an awesome guitar and I think I'll definitely do a comparison video sooner than later.
@@JasonTMays I came here looking for your thoughts on Vintera II vs Player II. I'll definitely be looking out for that video!
@@JasonTMays I think you’re right as I’m leaning more towards vintage accuracy.
I’m predominantly a Strat guy. I’ll likely buy another one in my lifetime 😂
Outside of maybe buying the Cobain signature, as im a Nirvana fan, I’m not buying another Jag because i have my Fender Vintera 60s Jaguar Modified HH. I love my surf green Vintera 🏄♂️
The Vintera JM would, barring something unforeseen, be my only JM. I’m not sure I want a contemporary take on it based on that. Doesn’t take away from the Player II being a great guitar.
JASON never disappoints with the riffs
@@renula thank you!!! 🙏🏾 🥹🥹🥹
Radiohead really is the perfect band for clean tone demos.
And for dirty too...
Great video!
Thank you! And I agree! Radiohead is usually my go to when testing out a guitar. :)
Makes me wanna play my jazzmaster. Been playing an HH tele lately
Dude! Play that Jazzmaster! :D
Love the look of this, that red looks great! Definitely like this more than the Player 1 Jazzmaster with the humbuckers. Currently have no plans on upgrading from my Classic Vibe Jazzmaster, but this would be a solid option!
@@invisAG indeed, this is a super solid upgrade.
It's basically the Tele formula (two pickups, one volume, one tone, and a 3 way switch) in a Jazzmaster. I have a Xaviere JT 100 (pretty upgraded) and this would be the closet version to that guitar.
The only knock I can put on this is the off white plastics with the white pickguard looks off. Black covers and two black witch hat knobs would look way better on this.
Cool guitar amigo!😎👍✨
You know, I need to get my hands on one of those Xaviere JT’s. I’ve been curious about them and some of the Harley Benton stuff.
But, I agree in terms of looks. I don’t mind it as much, but I am thinking of putting a tort guard on here cause I have one from decoboom.
But thanks bud. 😬
@@JasonTMays
The JT is worth trying out. It's made pretty well but since it is made in an overseas factory it still has some of the cheapo problems. I don't know why they used off white knobs but I put on the pearloid and chrome UFO knobs instead. The pots that come on it are 500k pots, definitely worth upgrading to 1 Meg CTS pots (they also dropped right in on the pickguard, no need to reem it). At this point the pickups really open up and you get a guitar that sounds much more like a Jazzmaster. The pickups are the same as GFS sells and many people replace Squier and MIM Fender Jazzmaster pickups with these, no complaints, the bridge has a Twangy bite and the neck is warm and full.
For my mods I put in locking tuners, Graph Tech string trees, a Decoboom surf neck plate, CTS 1 Meg pots, an Orange Drop 47 capacitor, a Switchcraft jack, and a JD Moon metal three way switch. I also shielded the cavity with copper tape. What is left is that I want to buy a Halon bridge (Tele style three barrel brass bridge) and Tremolo. I am mainly a Tele guy but I have been very happy with the JT 100 that I modded (I am learning luthier skills and I am upgrading Import guitars with US specced electrics and better than stock pickups which I call my "Primo Cheapos").
Stock the JT 100 is somewhere in-between a Squier and a MIM Fender. The body and neck are pretty good (I did have to "fill and redrill" one of the neck screws (the one on the far corner, whoever made it fudged up twice and and both needed to be filled and then properly aligned to redrill)) and the pickups sound great once you upgrade to 1 Meg pots. As my guitar stands right now I think it would give this Jazzmaster a run for its money. Once I have the Halon parts I think it will surpass this model. That said it still has an Import feel to it (I've owned many Import guitars and they feel pretty familiar to me).
I hope this helps. I don't have any Harley Benton, but I do own two IYV Thinline Tele style guitars that come out of the same Vietnam factory as some of the HBs do. They are part of my "Primo Cheapos" and they are "Ok" as stock but much better just keeping the neck and body and replacing everything else.
@gringogreen4719 Jazzmasters usually have 2 pickups, 1 volume knob, 1 tone knob, and a 3 way switch. Rather than the stretch of it being like a Tele, just say it’s a normal JM minus the rhythm circuit.
@@hoover728
You forgot about the Rhythm Circuit, Teles don't have those. 😉
@@gringogreen4719 Reread my comment.
What a great review! I totally dig it the riffs and the smooth editing. Seems i have to take a closer look to the new player 2 series
Thank you!!! And it’s definitely worth checking out.
That coral red looks sweet! I dig the sound demos, Jason! 🤘
Thank you!!! That coral red is so gorgeous! and thank you for the kind words.
Sounds great from the outset. That was a great tone and riff.
Thank you! And I concur, I wasn’t expecting to the like the pickups as much as I did.
I love the fat growl of that neck position. And the dramatic tension I hear in the bridge pickup.
Yea! I really really love the neck pickup on this!
I'm doing everything and I'm here! :)
Sounds optimistic!
Instant sub when i hear the weird fishes riff. Great video, this looks like a fantastic update on the player
Thank you!!! Dude, Radiohead is life! If it pasts the Radiohead test then it's a good guitar!
Yeah. That is a killer guitar. Especially with the Rosewood neck. Oh, and sadly when we were talking Casino or Starcaster... I went Casino. It just fit me better. The Starcaster is amazing, but I just felt it was an awkward fit to my my smaller frame. That being said, still happy with the decision and an absolute thank you for the conversation. I just wish it would have fit better
@@christophervincent8420 dude!!! The rosewood FEELS so much better on the fingers. I’m so glad fender got rid of Paul Faro.
And no worries, I’m happy you went with what suits YOU! I love the starcaster, but the Casino is an amazing guitar! If it inspires you to play then thats a win in my book! 👌🏾
Your channel is amazing dude
Thank you so much 😀
that mustang bridge is a massive upgrade in my opinion. as much as i love my player jazzmaster, that adjustable bridge has literally shredded the side of my hand a few times when playing live. the show must go on and all that, but it’s definitely not ideal to pick bits of torn skin out of your saddles, not to mention the triple antibiotic and bandages on your picking hand. i’m definitely considering getting one of these, particularly that green one. maybe even pairing it with that yellow jaguar… decisions, decisions
Dude!!! Pairing it with the yellow jag would be a sick combo!
I may have also commented this on a different video, but I love your PSX-inspired intro: that sound takes me BACK!
You did!!! I remember that convo, PS1 era is the best! 🙏🏾
holy crap nailed the tones… im sold!!
Thank you!!!! 😊 🥹🙏🏾
Oh...
That Beautiful Sound of Radiohead.
Beautiful playing, also.
❤❤❤❤
Thank you very much! 😬🥹🙏🏾
I was hoping it would have the rhythm circuit. I love the blue finish option, and the rolled fretboard. I have the Player Plus Strat and the rolled fretboard makes an enormous difference in comfort and helps me bar chords.
I agree!!! I didn’t realize how comfy a rolled fretboard could be until this guitar! I kind of wish I would’ve given the Player Plus series another chance but they didn’t have a Jazzmaster so I kind of just skipped over it.
Great review Jason!
Thank you 🙏🏾
I bought one of these from Chicago Music Exchange. The selector on mine is a 4 way switch
Nice!!! That's probably the FSR version of the Player 1. I hope you enjoy it!
Ha, i was thinking finally someone with music taste and not a bloody blues player on a Jazzmaster, then the dad rock thing, hilarious. Nice review thanks, no rhythm circuit switch, weird, but i wouldn't miss it either.
Hahaha! Thank you! I know that blues lick on an offset is kind of blasphemy. Yea, I don’t mind the rhythm being gone. But I understand folks who do.
It sounds great! i would like to see this new pickups compared to the vintera ii :)
Noted! I’ll definitely make that happen at some point.
🤘👍🏿 It’s so refreshing to hear a Radiohead riff instead of, well, almost anything else.
Thanks dude! I love Radiohead and I’ll gladly keep playing them.
looking and sounding real good 😎 great vid dude!
Appreciate it! My friend! I always appreciate you and I’m loving seeing your channel blow up! 👏🏾
I just ordered one in aquatone blue. I love the red but it wasn't available and I feel the next best color is the blue one. I'm looking forward to getting it this week. I'll tell ya how it goes!
@@GeoffByrdMusic awesome sauce!!! Definitely let me know how it goes, I’m excited for you!
@@JasonTMays Thanks brother. It comes tomorrow and I'll hit you up after playing it. Cheers!
@@GeoffByrdMusic Anytime, Appreciate you and I hope you enjoy it!
Overall it's a nice looking guitar. I prefer a RC but it's not a deal breaker. I am not sure why Fender thinks moving the vibrato closer to the bridge is an improvement. I know the purpose is to increase break angle for the strings but the same can be achieved with a proper guitar setup. If you angle the neck and raise the bridge it works great. It seems like a solution to a problem that really isn't a problem.
Thanks. I do prefer the vintage style trem placement. But, I can see their logic behind this because I think it's aimed to be user friendly for people who aren't typically into offsets and just want to get their feet wet.
I love these new takes on the Jazzmaster and Jaguar. If you want a rhythm circuit then get a squier or American version.
Yea, I think fender kind of streamlined their line up, and if you want a vintage accurate model you have one in almost every series.
It sounds really nice and congrats on the milestone!! No Rhy tho 😩 I get some folks don’t want Rhy switches tho and contemporary can exist without it. The colors are great too.
Thank you!!! And yea, I know the no rhythm is a dealbreaker for some, but there’s the Vintera II for that crowd. The colors are super nice! I was super impressed with the finishes.
Great playing, great tones !
Thank you!!! 😊 🙏🏾
i really love the blue jazzmasters too
The blue looks really nice! 😊
Hey man awesome review, enjoyed your comparison of the player vs player 2 as well. I might get downvoted for this question... But the player 2 has almost everything I'm looking for in a JM (it would be my first JM guitar) but the thing is, I'm super not into any of the color options. Do you think it would be a big hassle to do a custom paint job if I get my hands on the player 2? The buttercream color of the player 1 is exactly what I'd want... Thanks so much!
Not at all!!!! It might be a bit costly, but it wouldn’t be difficult. Or, ones the parts start showing up on stratosphere, you could get a Player 2 neck with a buttercream player one body. Hope this helps and gives you some thoughts.
Fender finally brought back rosewood and put REAL Jazzmaster pickups in a PlayerJazzmaster. Why not keep the rhythm circuit? Cmon guys.
Because they have the Vintera II Jazzmaster which has a rhythm circuit.
@@JasonTMaysI agree but the price difference between the two is a good bit. Several hundreds. I know the Vintera II has better QC and parts though
Man, I love this guitar. Love my teles and strat, but it's either this one or a mustang for me. Just want something a bit different. Thanks for the great demo. Keep going.
@@mrelmoresmusiclab dude!!! I have a video on the mustang coming out! Id recommend the Jazzmaster! That’s definitely a good one to go with!
@@JasonTMays Right on. I will check that out for sure. I'm intrigued by the 24in. scale length. So fun.
@@mrelmoresmusiclab Definitely check it out!!! If you're intrigued by the the 24inch scale I can definitely recommend the mustang.
@@JasonTMays I will for sure brother. Wanted to tell you I really dug your choice of voicings during the demo. I can hear your voice clearly. And...that guitar sounds so mint. Might have to grab that first and then the Stang. Hit me up too and maybe we could do some cool collabs for our channels .Always great to meet other rad musicians. Keep going
@@mrelmoresmusiclab DUDE! thank you for the kind words! That means the world to me because I am very self conscious about my playing. And I would LOVE to collaborate on a few ideas. LETS GO!!! I love meeting new friends and I hope you get both! Please keep me updated! if anything whats your insta handle? Im far more active on there.
Hey Jason! I'm so excited to see that you have your own channel! I'm a big fan of WCM. Do you release original music btw? I love your playing on demos
Hey!
And thank you! 🙏🏾
I do release music with my band Young Mountain. Outside of that I have an electronic lofi solo thingy called DREAMHAUS the EP is called “Lovers: (a lofi film score)”
But I’ve thought about releasing music on my own stuff that I play on that channel.
Thumbs up for playing my favorite Radiohead song ! Cool review, Thank you. I will buy one soon
Thank you!!! Gotta love Radiohead!! All I ask is that Whenever you decide to buy just use one of my links cause that helps me out a ton!!! Please and thank you! 🙏🏾
I've not been a fan of the player series but these look pretty good. Rosewood, yes plz!!
Only thing I'm not loving are the washer looking things around the pegs.. But all in all, this will be a huge win for fender I think..
I agree, I think this was a much needed step in right direction!
Thank you nfor this.
You're welcome! Glad I could help. :)
“Wigglestick” is outrageous 😂
@@JamisonBethea you can thank 60 cycle hum for that term.
I am probably going to buy the mustang player 2 so this review helps alot as many feature upgrades are parallel.
@@nastybandit322 Firstly, thank you! actually filmed a review for the player 2 mustang! Idk when it’s coming out. I will say the player 2 mustang is a solid choice, I have my grievances with it lacking the mustang bridge, but otherwise it’s great! I hope you enjoy yours!
@@JasonTMays I'll check out the video, thanks so much for the reply. This is the video of yours I've seen and I'm already a fan.
I immediately subbed when i heard weird fishes and optimistic
@@bugattimdrrr8036 Thank you!!! :)
Woah, as a Jazzmaster curious player I was ALL set to pull the trigger on a J Mascis JM when my next paycheck arrives but now I’m seriously considering holding off another month and throwing the extra couple of hundred down on one of these.
It’s definitely worthy of your hard earned money! I prefer this far more than the SQJMJM.
I like the pickups in the J Mascis better, they are punchy and mean and roadhouse and rock. This one is good if you want more of the classic Jazzmaster sound.
@@GeoffByrdMusic I agree with that!
@@JasonTMays The truth is both are stellar for the money. And you are one of the best, most likable dudes in the RUclips guitar space brother. Keep cranking out the killer content!
@@GeoffByrdMusic thank you my friend!!! That means a lot cause I know RUclips has a bunch of cool guitar personalities, so it makes me happy to know I’m doing a good job! 👏🏾
Kudos for the when you sleep cover!
@@gloryxkid Thank you!!!! I love MBV and I hope I did Kevin Shields proud.
I will 100% be routing it.
Go for it!
@@JasonTMays Don’t tell me what to do. 🥸
Looks nice, the pickups from the original player jazzmaster put me off being one. This looks decent. Rosewood looks lovely too.
Agreed! The player one was always a hard sell for me.
ugh! greats sounds!
@@neilfordan thank you 🙏🏾
I have a classic vibes jazzmaster with a maple neck I found used, and the neck pickup sounds REALLY icepicky like you described, with a little treble boost it sounds way louder than playing the bridge pickup and I use the neck for lead playing instead, ironically. I think it must be an older classic vibes model because it doesnt sound like my new classic vibe jazz. Do you know what makes it get that really sharp sound? I prefer it, it really makes the attack for my playing really stand out.
Honestly, I’m not entirely sure. But I do believe it’s probably the maple, I had a similar experience with the V-Mod pickups, they sound incredibly ice picky with a maple neck, but in a rosewood neck guitar it’s a lot less ice picky/sharp. That would be my guess, but again I’m not entirely sure.
That sounds so good
Thank you! 🙏🏾
I'm glad they did a contemporary one. I couldn't get with the Vintera 2 one because of the radius.
I love that we have options that retains enough of the Jazzmaster DNA that doesn't alienate people who like vintage and people who like modern.
Would it be a worthy upgrade from the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster that has already been sorted out?
I think it's a worthy upgrade if you don't mind the modern appointments. I was pleasantly surprised with how much I loved this guitar.
The pros:
~ Rosewood is back!
~ Dot inlays
~ Mustang bridge is a no-brainer instead of the terrible vintage threaded saddles
~ Pickups seem good
~ Getting rid of the lock button on the vibrato plate simplifies things, since players are far less likely to break a string when using a Mustang bridge
The cons:
~ They moved the tremolo plate forward to increase the string break angle over the bridge, which has historically been a problem when setting up Jazzmasters. Technically, it's a sound move. But I doubt it will please the traditionalists and vintage diehards.
~ Poly finish instead of nitrocellulose.
~ "Classic Gear" tuners? I wish they'd just used vintage Klusons, which are simpler and have stood the test of time
~ I wish the neck had the beefier "60's C" shape instead of the flatter "Modern C"
~ No rhythm circuit makes it arguable whether this is a "real" Jazzmaster since that feature is so crucial to the "DNA" of the JM.
Overall, it's a good choice for guitarists new to the Jazzmaster, with the caveat that they understand that it's not a classic Jazzmaster but rather a contemporary and lower budget spin on the model.
Yea, I concur for the most part. However, I had to take a step back and realize this isn’t a traditional Jazzmaster so I cant really judge it as such. But yea, It’s definitely a solid choice for anyone new to the offset/Jazzmaster experience.
I don't see how poly instead of nitro can be considered a con on a sub $1000 MIM Fender, most non-custom shop MIA Fenders don't even have nitro. I do wish it had a RM, but most famous JM players just taped over it anyway so it's not really a big deal.
'No rhythm circuit makes it arguable whether this is a "real" Jazzmaster since that feature is so crucial to the "DNA" of the JM.' So crucial that most players ignore it or tape it over or mod it to be a killswitch?
Love your videos. Had no idea what “dad rock,” was until today. I guess anything vintage sounding has a bias term for it now. They are just chords and notes. Anyway, this model is great, but I have too many Jazzmasters already.
Thank you! And to be fair, I just like to give dad rock a good ribbing. But anything can be dad rock under the right circumstances.
Great review! I had to watch it twice because I got distracted trying to figure out where I recognized that Radiohead riff from. As a Jazzmaster aficionado, have you played a G&L Doheny? That's what I think of when I hear 'contemporary update to the Jazzmaster'. At $830, that puts the Player II just above the Tribute series Doheny ($700ish) with similar specs. Sounds like there's a lot to like about the Player II, and if I had my way the Doheny would have a Mastery or Descendant style upgraded JM vibrato to make it 'modern' rather than the Strat style trem, but the JM/MFD pickups and passive treble/bass controls kind of make it a toss up for me. It would be cool to hear them head to head as different takes on what Modern Jazzmaster could mean.
Thank you!!! And yea, I’ve tried a few Dohenys and I like them! I definitely want to do a video comparing the two and I probably will at some point.
Could you get your hands on the limited 2024 MIJ fender cyclone?
Possibly! I may be able to make that happen.
I might as well add a third comment because I forgot something: I strongly suggest installing a Free Way Model 3X3-05 six-position toggle switch and wiring it according to Scheme No. 0039 (in the "2PU 2Pot PP B" PDF, no idea why they only included that scheme for the switch with an unrelated push/pull example).
Thank you, I may give that a go because I was going to change the bridge with a new Tuffset bridge.
Love that ps1 intro.
Thank you!!! 🙏🏾
i am lefthanded and next week i am going to a luthier to build my first jazzmaster. would you recommend the Fender CuNiFe Wide Range Jazzmaster Pickup Set? i almost exclusively recording Alternative Rock music and hate 60 cycle hum and noise. i already have a tele with noiseless pickups and i totally love them. Thanks!!!!!!!! by the way i watched your demo with the wide range pickups and they sound superb!
@@MitsosChaveles ABSOLUTELY!!!! I love those pickups! And for the style you mentioned they should easily excel at that. Just remember the pot value, 1meg is what I recommend but I do like a the 500k with the CuNife. Thank you!! I really appreciate that my video was helpful! Thank you! 🙏🏾
@@JasonTMays yea 500k for the win :) thank you so much!
Loving the rosewood but do you feel the lack of the JM rhythm circuit make it a lesser JM?
@@FilmFlam Nah, it still has the vibrato assembly and JM pickups. And most importantly, it still sounds like a Jazzmaster. But I can understand for some, a lack of a rhythm circuit is a deal breaker and for those they would feel it’s lesser. But for most, I think it’ll be fine.
@@JasonTMays Thanks, Jason. I appreciate your input.
Jason,
Whats going to be the main sound and tonal differences between this,and the P2 Jaguar?
Jaguar is thinner more trebly sounding compared to the jazzmasters wider pickups which makes it sound a bit more beefy in comparison.
I like the HH player series I a lot!! A lot!!
@@Irkennalpha I think it’s awesome for anyone looking for a HH!
@@JasonTMays It has the option for also having single coils, and it sounds very Jazzmastery, TBH. Maybe the main deal are the looks.
I love it! I do wish they kept the humbuckers instead of the traditional pickups but that's personal bias. Otherwise ill probably end up getting one
Glad you enjoy it! I’m sure there’s a few of the old school Player Series floating around if you really want one. But, whenever you do decide to get one please keep my links in mind, it helps me out and I’d definitely appreciate that and give you a digital high five! 🙌🏾
Sick video!
Glad you liked it! 🙏🏾🙌🏾
I love the rhythm circuit, though know I'm in the minority. That said, it doesn't have to be on every JM, just as you don't need a wiggle stick on every Strat, nor an air of superiority with every Tele.
I'm not the biggest Fiesta Red fan, and while this is noticeably different, it's not different enough for me. Thanks for the video guys! Look forward to the WCM comparison.
@@oldmanzen6682 I agree!!! I like that we have different flavors of the Jazzmaster. I like that almost every price point fender has both modern and vintage options.
There’s always the classic black option which looks amazing!
And thanks! Nelson and I had a blast making the WCM episode and that should drop on Friday.
I want to try one of these, the only thing I’m not keen on is the moved vibrato.
Definitely worth trying!!!
Hi - is there routing for the rhythm circuit under the pickguard?
Negative, it is not. :/
Thanks for the useful sound samples. Sounds like a JM I might like to own. That said, I wonder how it might differ sound-wise from a MiJ Traditional Late 60s. Not sure what pickups the MiJ has, but I figure the ones in the new Player II might be a bit closer to original ones? Would love to get your take on this, as a guy who values jangle and clarity (also because I tune all my guitars down to C# standard and slap 13s D‘Addario Medium Jazz strings on the, so don‘t want to sacrifice any clarity).
@@scottbecker3485 Thank you! 😊 and funny enough i have a FSR MIJ traditional 60s and I can say they’re quite different. I love both, but I think the Player II is definitely the more comfortable guitar feel wise. In terms of pickups, the Player II also wins there. But, the MIJ is also one of my all time favorites.
@@JasonTMays Wow - thanks a million for your prompt and illuminating response! (Subbed.) Great to hear, although this is going to now „force“ me (ahem) to spend some money on yet another guitar…. ;-) But then again, it gives me a good excuse to finally get a JM in Sunburst, since my MiJ is in blue. And I wasn‘t using the rhythm circuit, anyhow. Plus, the new Player 2 has the Mustang-style bridge, which will helpfully not rattle like the one on my MiJ (which I will soon replace with a new JAM Bridge by Kiss My Strings).
@@scottbecker3485 Dude, do you have the sonic blue MIJ with matching headstock? cause that's the same one I have. But, no problem! I love talking Jazzmasters. But so far the new mustang bridge has been solid, no rattle. I almost kind of regret not getting the sunburst finish because I dont own a guitar in that finish. but thank you for the sub and just being awesome. Much appreciated.
@@JasonTMays Happy your bridge is rattle-free so far! And yes, fine sir, we’ve got the same Sonic Blue MiJ‘s. 😎 May your life one day be gifted with a Sunburst JM, too. 🌅🙏🏼
@@scottbecker3485 Thank you!!! and likewise we need matching sunburst JMs.
JM without rhythm circuit is not a JM. I know many people do not use it, but even using it as a kill switch is a feature. It's a part part of what the JM is. Without it you might as well play a strat for the extra pickup
Agree to disagree.
What makes a JM is the style, the pickups and the trem system, the RM is nice to have but it's an entirely unnecessary gimmick and not at all essential to a JM.
@@epitaph3988 there's a billion different single coil pickups in the world and at this point you'd be hard pressed to draw a box around what a "jazzmaster pickup" even sounds like. I love the JM, it's my favorite guitar, but there are other trem systems, trem pedals, plenty of JM-like pickups. The RM is literally the most unique thing about that guitar, besides the style. Style is important but that aside I don't see the value of an RMless Jazzmaster over a strat
@@KeithJCarberry1 "but that aside I don't see the value of an RMless Jazzmaster over a strat" uhhh it has different pickups and a different trem system? They're different guitars dude, I really don't get this point you're trying to make. By this logic you might as well say there's no point in getting a tele or a mustang instead of a strat.
@@epitaph3988 i play my tele because i like playing my tele. i play my JM because i like playing my JM. They have different ergonomics and different weights and different looks and color, but they come out of the factory sounding different because that's how fender, or anyone, sells guitars. pickups are a bunch of electrical/magnetic differences that come out as "output" and you can easily make a tele sound like a strat or a strat sound like a JM or whatever. fwiw i put the old "dark circuit" into my tele because i think that offers something unique, instead of the typical neck/both/bridge setup, and of course i love the trem system of the jazzmaster and the rhythm circuit. these are features. the actual thing that makes one guitar interesting over another guitar, besides style. if i couldnt have the rhythm circuit, maybe it's worth it for the trem. to me, i like the 5 switch feature on a strat and i think that's more important than a slightly better trem. if i wanted a strat with a trem that sounded pretty much like a jazzmaster, that's a very solvable thing and to me much more interesting. that's all im saying
I think as we are getting older we have to realise that at one point, playing Radiohead will be indeed considered "dad rock" 😢
This is an unfortunate truth, one day we will all become dad rock.
Anyone who plays Weird Fishes as a demo song is A-OK in my book!
I had to try really hard not to make a Kid A pun! lol.
Super dark sounding for a Jazzmaster
Really? I thought it sounds super bright.
@@JasonTMays It absolutely IS bright. This person is wrong.
Would you prefer this or the Vintera II 50's jazzmaster?
@@TimothyDohner admittedly im biased in terms of the vintera II cause late 50s jazzmasters are my favorite guitars. But i do prefer the neck and radius of the player 2.
@@Melskeybored These pickups sound far more like a Jazzmaster and the Pickups in the Squier JMJM are P90s. If you play more rock/distorted tones the JMJM might be the better option, but I found both to be very good options. I prefer the Player II pickups by far!
Love those new player II
But i have a question…
The neck its in the thin side or Chunky side? Cuz i had the player I jaguar And The neck was very chunky And honestly didn’t like it so i sold it (honestly was an awful Guitar
And i prefer so much my Squier CV jaguar than the player I 😔)
Sorry for my english, its not my mother laguange
Love your videos Jason 🖤
@@massenoire6667 No worries, I just appreciate it. The Player II sits right in the middle. It’s thicker than the Squier but not as chunky as a vintera II. I like the necks so far, they feel really comfortable.
@@JasonTMays thank you Jason 🖤🖤🖤
@@massenoire6667 Not a problem, glad I could help! If there’s anything else I can do, just let me know!
if we dont think on the price, would you choose the vintera II, AM professional II or player II?
I would probably go with the AmPro2 only because it's a better balance of both modern and vintage features. And I can changes the pots and pickups rather easily.
I do think the pickups on the Player II and Vintera II are more Jazzmaster sounding than the AmPro2.
@@JasonTMays thanks for the answer, i have an AM pro ii but I was really tempted for buying a vintera for something more traditional or a proper american jag (if fender released one), I think I can continue saving my money
@@amq1996 Not a problem, definitely save your pennies cause you can easily mod the AmPro2 to be a more traditional JM. low-key the AV2 is definitely missing a Jaguar.
@@JasonTMays lets just keep dreaming on a AV2 jaguar block inlays burgundy mist :(
@@amq1996 I would sell my hypothetical first born for such a guitar!
None of the player IIs come in left-handed, Fender used to represent the lefties more in the MiM range outside of Strats and Teles. The only MiM Offset you can get now from Fender is a Jag-Stang which I like mine :)
But I dont want to drop $$$ for a new US Jazzmaster. I wish this JM and the new player Jaguar had at least 1 color in lefty!
Ohhh, I’ve got some thoughts about the Jagstang. lol. 🙃
But, who knows…perhaps we aren’t seeing the entirety of the rollout…I hope they do at least one lefty offset in the player line up.
@@JasonTMays I know you like those thicc necks
i want one of these or one of the mustangs or teles, all in that aqua shade
Dude!!! Get it! The aqua tone blue is awesome! 👏🏾
@@JasonTMays Dude!!!! I'm poor 😭😭😭🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 one day!
@@Brannington I feel you!!!! I understand the struggle! lol.
Jason Mays can dad rock
lol. Damn sure can!
Fender player 2 or squier J mascis? What you think?
Player 2!!! I prefer this over the SQJMJM any day!!! It may not have a Rhythm circuit but it sounds more akin to a proper JM.
What’s your favorite contemporary jazzy WITH a rhythm circuit?
ohhh that's a tough question, I'd probably say with a rhythm circuit...probably the Squier J Mascis. It's the most consistent.
Love that he played Weird Fishes by Radiohead
Also Optimistic by Radiohead. Thought that was played on an SG and a Tele but sounds sick with the kind of distortion you get off a Jazzmaster.
Thanks! I love Radiohead and I figured they’d be perfect for this demo! Glad you enjoyed it! I’ll definitely incorporate more Radiohead riffs in future demos!
I wish they wouldve kept the rhythm circuit, i dont wanna spend an extra 400 for the vintera II
I understand, but If they did put the rhythm circuit in there it would've definitely increased the price. I wish as a good compromise they would've kept the routing for the rhythm circuit.
A "modern" Jazzmaster has more reason to have a locking bridge, not less. Narrower nut aside, I would rather have a G&L Tribute Series Doheny.
The Doheny would make for an interesting comparison.
wondering if the neck pocket is angled??
@@SnaFOo75 hmm, I’m going to set up this guitar later so I’ll double check.
Fender's worst decision with Jazzmasters was to make the humbuckers standard on their Player I series.
Idk, according to some folks the American Performer Jazzmaster begs to differ. lol.
How does it compare to the vintera ii JM? Pickups especially.
Pickups are definitely a bit more overwound and spicer on the Player II. The Vintera II are definitely more late 50s era and dark sounding. I like both a lot! I think the P2 pickups are far better than the Pure Vintage and J Mascis pickups.
@@JasonTMays thanks Jason! Looking forward to the WCM shoot out. Btw - are u guy having trouble with the YT algorithm? WCM doesn’t appear in my feed the way it used to.
@@Kulturmatt Thanks! the WCM episode was a fun time. Nelson and I were shocked by the results. I've heard that from a few folks and I dont know. I think that might be happening.
@@JasonTMaysthat sucks.
Had to play Radiohead! Very nice!!!!!
Of course!!! Radiohead Is life! lol.