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Average Price: $1,100

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Unleash your inner rockstar with the Fender American Special Jazzmaster w/ Bigsby, a guitar that marries vintage flair with modern simplicity. This limited edition gem is part of Fender's exclusive lineup, offering a unique twist with the Bigsby-licensed B50 vibrato tailpiece. Whether you're strumming mellow chords or unleashing powerful riffs, this guitar is designed to elevate your performance.

The streamlined control set is all about ease and efficiency, allowing you to navigate through tones effortlessly. Equipped with dual Pure Vintage ’65 Jazzmaster pickups, this instrument delivers the signature Jazzmaster sound—bright, clear tones with just the right amount of edge. Its modern 9.5” fingerboard radius and ultra-comfortable "C" neck profile ensure that playing feels as good as it sounds.

The aesthetic appeal is undeniable, featuring white witch hat knobs and a black/white/black pickguard for that classic Fender look. This guitar doesn’t just sound great; it makes a statement on stage. To top it off, it comes with a "Limited Edition" neck plate and a hardshell case, making it a collector's dream.

Key Features:

  • Limited edition model with only 200 to 250 units made
  • Bigsby-licensed B50 vibrato tailpiece for expressive play
  • Dual Pure Vintage ’65 Jazzmaster pickups for classic tone
  • 9.5” fingerboard radius and "C" neck profile for comfortable playability
  • Streamlined control set with three-way switching
  • Includes “Limited Edition” neck plate and hardshell case

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Limited Edition American Special Jazzmaster with Bigsby Vibrato
Finish Candy Apple Red, Ocean Turquoise, Olympic White, Walnut
Year 2016
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family Blue, Brown, Red, White
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Jazzmaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender American Special
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Fender American Special Jazzmaster w/ Bigsby?

The neck profile of the Fender American Special Jazzmaster w/ Bigsby is a C standard, providing a comfortable and familiar feel for most players.

How does the Bigsby vibrato affect the playability of this Jazzmaster?

The Bigsby B50 vibrato allows for smooth pitch modulation, adding expressive vibrato effects without significantly altering the guitar's tuning stability.

Are the pickups on this Jazzmaster suitable for surf rock?

Yes, the American Vintage ‘65 Single-Coil Jazzmaster pickups are ideal for surf rock, offering bright, clear tones with plenty of twang.

Is the Fender American Special Jazzmaster w/ Bigsby suitable for beginners?

While it offers professional features, its comfortable neck profile and versatile tone make it accessible for beginners looking to invest in a quality instrument.

What kind of body material is used in the Fender American Special Jazzmaster w/ Bigsby?

The body of the Fender American Special Jazzmaster w/ Bigsby is made from alder, known for its balanced tone and lightweight feel.

Does the Fender American Special Jazzmaster w/ Bigsby come with a case?

Yes, this Jazzmaster model comes with a hardshell case for protection and easy transport.

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Fender Limited Edition American Special Jazzmaster with Bigsby Overview • Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender Limited Edition American Special Jazzmaster with Bigsby Overview  •  Wildwood Guitars by Wildwood Guitars

Fender Limited Edition American Special Jazzmaster with Bigsby Overview • Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar Close Up - Fender American Special Jazzmaster with Bigsby $1399 by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar Close Up - Fender American Special Jazzmaster with Bigsby $1399

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Demo & Review: Fender Jazzmaster with a Bigsby (Magnificent 7 American Special Series) from 2016 by Get Offset

Demo & Review: Fender Jazzmaster with a Bigsby (Magnificent 7 American Special Series) from 2016

Get Offset

Get Offset

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique Jazzmaster tone with simplified Telecaster-style controls

  • Bigsby vibrato adds style and smooth functionality

  • Excellent neck feel and comfortable playability

  • Dark fingerboard with impressive fret work

  • Clarity and brightness in vintage tone suitable for various genres

  • Single coil pickups deliver huge, clear sound

  • Made in the USA with quality craftsmanship

  • Guitar stays in tune well, even with Bigsby use

  • Ideal for rockabilly, surf, country, and rock

CONS

  • Single coil pickups can be noisy

  • Tuning stability issues, especially with low E string

  • Some neck adjustment limitations without modifications

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender American Special Jazzmaster w/ Bigsby.

Setup and maintenance

  • Using a capo around the 7th fret can ease restringing with a Bigsby to maintain tension and prevent string slippage.

    Source
  • Removing the plastic bushing in the Bigsby's socket can lower the arm height back to original after installing a longer spring.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the Bigsby spring with a Reverend soft touch spring can enhance playability.

    Source
  • The Reverend soft touch spring is longer and softer, improving bend control and preventing pop-out from its socket.

    Source
  • Owners recommend Fender CuNiFe pickups, citing improved treble response and clarity over non-CuNiFe alternatives.

    Source
  • Adjusting pickup heights and pole pieces is recommended for optimal performance with wide-range CuNiFe pickups.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The American Pro Jazzmaster pickguard doesn't fit due to the Bigsby's angled bridge; custom pickguards from WDmusic.com are recommended.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Bigsby folds back securely, unlike the standard Jag/Jazzmaster tremolo arm attachment.

    Source
  • It is noted that the body is not routed for a traditional Jazzmaster setup with roller pots and classic switch placement.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners appreciate the simpler control options on this model compared to traditional offset Jazzmasters.

    Source
  • Some users initially faced spring stiffness and pop-out issues, which were resolved with the Reverend spring upgrade, enhancing their overall playing experience.

    Source
  • Users report satisfaction with CuNiFe pickups, describing them as exceptional in sound quality, especially in Jazzmaster setups.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • CuNiFe pickups were available on Amazon for 30% off, highlighting potential savings for buyers.

    Source

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