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Average Price: $1,332
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$1001+
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Description
The Fender Musicmaster II is a classic gem from the transitional era of electric guitar history, marking the shift during the CBS acquisition. While it retains the charm of the original Musicmaster with its student-friendly design, this iteration steps up with a full 25.5" scale length, making it versatile for both beginners and seasoned players. What sets the Musicmaster II apart is its simplicity fused with potential for customization. Originally equipped with a single coil pickup at the neck, this model invites creativity, as many players have taken to adding a bridge pickup for a broader tonal palette.
This guitar's vintage allure isn't just about nostalgia; it embodies the spirit of an era when experimentation was key. With its minimalist design and straightforward functionality, it's a reliable companion for those who appreciate the subtleties of vintage tone and style. The Musicmaster II’s understated elegance is perfect for musicians who value the balance between history and personal customization.
Key Features:
- Full 25.5" scale length for versatile playability
- Single neck-positioned single coil pickup
- Popular model for modifications, often seen with additional bridge pickups
- Vintage design with a minimalist approach
- Produced during the CBS transition era (1964 - 1969)
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | Musicmaster II with Rosewood Fretboard |
| Finish | Dakota Red, Daphne Blue, Olympic White |
| Year | 1964 - 1969 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Material | Alder |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | String-Through |
| Color Family | Blue, Red, White |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Fretboard Radius | 7.25" |
| Model Family | Fender Musicmaster |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 21 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | S |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Fender Vintage CBS Era |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile like on the Fender Musicmaster II?
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The Fender Musicmaster II features a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, which is ideal for players who prefer a smooth and easy grip, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced guitarists.
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What kind of tones can I expect from the single pickup on the Fender Musicmaster II?
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The single pickup on the Fender Musicmaster II delivers a bright and clear tone with a vintage character, making it well-suited for genres like surf rock, garage rock, and blues.
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Is the Fender Musicmaster II suitable for small hands?
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Yes, the Fender Musicmaster II is suitable for players with small hands due to its shorter 24-inch scale length, which offers easier reach and playability.
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What are the finish options available for the Fender Musicmaster II?
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The Fender Musicmaster II is available in Dakota Red, Daphne Blue, and Olympic White, each featuring a glossy finish that highlights its vintage aesthetic.
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Does the Fender Musicmaster II have a bolt-on neck construction?
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Yes, the Fender Musicmaster II features a bolt-on neck construction, which is typical for Fender guitars and allows for easy neck adjustments and replacements.
Videos
Emerald City Guitars
"Pick of the Day" - 1964 Fender Musicmaster and 1968 Champ Amp
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Musicmaster II.
Setup and maintenance
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The narrow fretboard radius often requires a truss rod adjustment and fret dressing to prevent fretting out on the high E string above the 12th fret.
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Some owners note bad intonation, potentially due to poor setup or wear, suggesting a professional setup is necessary for optimal playability.
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Build quality
User experience
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Owners find that, despite its age, with proper setup, the guitar continues to perform well, highlighting the durability and longevity of the Musicmaster II.
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Features and functionality
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Post-CBS takeover models (1966 onward) can be identified by a six-digit "F" neck plate, indicating their era and potentially influencing collector interest.
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Comparisons
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Despite being a vintage piece, some compare its original market intent to a budget-friendly Squier, indicating its initial role as an entry-level instrument.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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David Byrne is confirmed to have used a Fender Musicmaster II during Talking Heads' performance at The Kitchen in New York on March 13, 1976. This is supported by video footage available on YouTube, provided by MisterBiscuits. The guitar was later stolen during the band's first tour, as recounted by Talking Heads bassist Tina Weymouth in "Chronology" (2011), who stated, "I don't think David has that little Musicmaster made by Fender anymore. I think that was stolen on our very first tour before we left for Europe. It was just an awful, awful, crippling situation three days before we went on our first tour because we were living on five dollars a day."
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fender Musicmaster II, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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