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Description

The Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster 2012 is a tribute to the innovative soundscapes crafted by Sonic Youth's legendary guitarist. This guitar embodies a minimalist, yet powerful design that speaks volumes to both seasoned players and new enthusiasts alike. Crafted with an offset solid body, its wide-range humbuckers mirror the iconic '70s Telecaster Deluxe, delivering a rich, resonant sound that is as versatile as it is bold.

The alder body and maple neck, paired with a smooth rosewood fingerboard, provide a comfortable playability that invites exploration across genres. Its satin nitro finish gives it a sleek, understated look while enhancing its natural resonance. The floating tremolo system lets you effortlessly bend notes and chords, adding layers of expression to your music. With a 25 1/2-inch scale length and a simple, stripped-down control scheme, this Jazzmaster is designed to reflect Lee Ranaldo's avant-garde approach, allowing the artist's creativity to shine through.

Whether you're channeling the haunting melodies of Sonic Youth or forging your own path, this guitar stands as a versatile companion in your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Offset solid body design
  • Alder body with a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
  • Wide-range humbuckers for versatile sound
  • Satin nitrocellulose lacquer finish
  • Floating tremolo system
  • 25 1/2-inch scale length
  • Simplified electronics with master volume control

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Lee Ranaldo Artist Series Signature Jazzmaster
Finish Sapphire Blue Transparent
Year 2010 - 2014
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Artist Lee Ranaldo
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family Blue
Finish Features Matching Headstock
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 HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Artist Series

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster's pickups?

The Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster features a dual humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, providing a fuller, thicker tone suitable for alternative and rock genres, while maintaining the Jazzmaster's characteristic warmth and clarity.

How does the Sapphire Blue Transparent finish affect the guitar's appearance?

The Sapphire Blue Transparent finish gives the guitar a striking, glossy look that highlights the wood grain, providing a unique and visually appealing aesthetic that stands out on stage.

Is the Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster suitable for beginners?

While this guitar is designed with professional features, such as the HH pickup configuration and tremolo tailpiece, its playability and tonal versatility can be appreciated by both beginners and advanced players.

What is the neck profile like on this Jazzmaster?

The Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster features a bolt-on maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, offering a comfortable and familiar feel that is ideal for fast playing and easy chord transitions.

Does the Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster take pedals well?

Yes, the Jazzmaster's versatile HH pickup configuration and clear tone work well with a wide range of effects pedals, making it a great choice for players who enjoy experimenting with different sounds.

Reviews

PROS

  • Articulated notes with killer sustain, ideal for jazz and post-rock

  • Unique Sapphire Blue Transparent finish with visible woodgrain

  • Custom features: WRHB pickups, Mustang bridge, and black aluminum pickguard

  • Simplified controls with a single 500k volume pot and a 3-way switch

  • Vintage frets and rosewood neck for a classic feel

  • Distinctive black headstock for visual appeal

  • Elegant and straightforward setup for ease of use

  • Limited availability enhances exclusivity and desirability

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster 2012.

Features and functionality

  • The Fender Lee Ranaldo Signature Jazzmaster includes variable coil tap roller pots in the rhythm circuit, offering versatile tonal options.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A Seymour Duncan JB bridge pickup can create a significant volume difference, which can be managed by adjusting pickup heights.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Modern Player Jazzmasters with humbuckers are praised for their sound quality, even by those typically not fond of humbuckers or Jazzmasters.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar is known as a "Jazzblaster" when equipped with humbuckers, a setup favored for those needing a humbucker in the bridge position for all guitars.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users recommend consulting a guitar tech for pickup swaps to avoid complications with soldering and to ensure optimal setup.

    Source

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