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Description

The Teisco MJ-2L is a dynamic addition to any guitarist's collection, blending vintage flair with modern functionality. Known for its unique offset body design, the MJ-2L is crafted for those who love to stand out both visually and sonically. This solid body electric guitar holds a distinct charm with its retro aesthetics while delivering contemporary sound capabilities.

Equipped with a pair of single-coil pickups, the MJ-2L offers a versatile tonal range that suits a variety of genres from surf rock to indie. The guitar's bolt-on maple neck and rosewood fingerboard provide a smooth playing experience, perfect for both beginners and seasoned players. The vibrato bridge adds expressive potential, enhancing your performance with fluid pitch bends.

The control layout is straightforward yet effective, featuring a master volume, master tone, and a 3-way pickup selector switch. This simplicity allows for quick tonal adjustments on the fly, making it a reliable choice for live performances and studio sessions alike. With its meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, the Teisco MJ-2L is not just an instrument but a statement of style and substance.

Key Features:

  • Solid body with a unique offset design
  • Dual single-coil pickups for versatile tonal options
  • Bolt-on maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Vibrato bridge for dynamic pitch control
  • Simple control layout with master volume, master tone, and 3-way pickup selector
littledan0408

littledan0408

TEISCO MJ-2L Japan Vintage 1965

Video thumbnail for TEISCO MJ-2L Japan Vintage 1965 by littledan0408

TEISCO MJ-2L Japan Vintage 1965

littledan0408

littledan0408

Video thumbnail for TEISCO MJ-2L 1963年製【EARLY MODEL】w/HARD CASE 2.97kg by Guitar Creation

TEISCO MJ-2L 1963年製【EARLY MODEL】w/HARD CASE 2.97kg

Guitar Creation

Guitar Creation

Video thumbnail for TEISCO MJ-2L SUNBURST 1964年製【GOOD CONDITION!】2.83kg by Guitar Creation

TEISCO MJ-2L SUNBURST 1964年製【GOOD CONDITION!】2.83kg

Guitar Creation

Guitar Creation

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Teisco MJ-2L.

Build quality

  • The 1966 Teisco MJ-2L features a striped metal pickguard and Gretsch-style fret markers, indicative of its era's design.

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  • Some early Teisco models lack a "string tree" rod and zero fret, indicating an older production year.

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Features and functionality

  • The guitar utilizes Japanese-threaded components, such as the tremolo bar, which are neither metric nor Imperial, making replacements unique.

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  • The MJ-2L shares wiring similarities with other Japanese two-pickup, four rotary control guitars, though wire color coding can vary greatly.

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  • It's noted that the guitar includes a pickup selector with a different type than commonly seen, potentially confusing for those familiar with standard selectors.

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  • Teisco guitars were commonly sold under various brand names like Top 20, Silvertone, and Harmony, making identification challenging.

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User experience

  • Owners highlight the guitar's small body with a disproportionately large headstock, contributing to its distinctive aesthetic.

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Use cases and applications

  • The pickups are praised for their suitability in producing sounds ideal for fuzzy punk and garage rock music styles.

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  • The Teisco MJ-2L's distinctive wiring setup can make it challenging to modify, but it's ideal for those seeking unique vintage tones.

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  • Despite its condition, the guitar is considered a good project for learning restoration, given its history of modifications.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The Teisco MJ-2L's pickups have three lead wires each, complicating wiring repairs and requiring a multimeter for accurate troubleshooting.

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Other

  • While not always labeled as a Teisco, some believe the MJ-2L was manufactured in a Teisco factory, adding to its collectible appeal.

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Mods and upgrades

  • The gold foil pickup can be repurposed for enhancing a lap steel guitar, offering a potential upgrade for other projects.

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Critic Reviews

Mid 60's Teisco MJ2L – Tym Guitars Online

tymguitars.com.au

The Teisco MJ-2L is a curious blend of charm and quirk, delivering surprising tonal clarity from its gold foil pickups and solid build. With its unique vintage aesthetics and impressive features for an entry-level guitar, it stands out in the crowded market of classic models. However, its inconsistent neck sizes and limited vibrato functionality may deter some players looking for versatility. While it boasts a rich history and collectible appeal, it ultimately caters to a niche audience. Perfect for those who appreciate vintage Japanese craftsmanship, but not without its flaws.

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
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1 star
tel_nobody

A strange Beast from yesteryear.

So mine is Not a ST. George, it is a Coltone, and is the three pickup model. Amazing sound from these old girls, and a HUGE chunky V shaped neck profile. You've never felt anything like it.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Brian Eno uses Teisco MJ-2L

Brian Eno

Singer, Keyboardist

Roxy Music

...
Verified via Photo

In a late 1970s studio image from Fugitivesounds, Brian Eno is pictured with a Teisco MJ-2L guitar, highlighting his use of this instrument during that period.

See how Mk.gee uses Teisco MJ-2L

Mk.gee

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Absolutely" by Dijon, Mk.gee is seen playing a red Teisco MJ-2L electric guitar(Clearly seen from 19:12), which has been modified from its original design with Gibson P-90 pickups and white knobs.

See how Pete Shelley uses Teisco MJ-2L

Pete Shelley

Singer, Guitarist

Buzzcocks

...
Verified via Photo

In this image, Pete Shelley is seen with his Teisco MJ-2L guitar, highlighting its role in his setup.

See how bill wurtz uses Teisco MJ-2L

bill wurtz

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see Bill using this guitar at about 0:46 and 1:36.

See how Travis Bretzer uses Teisco MJ-2L

Travis Bretzer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the music video for "Find Another Guy", at 0:36 Travis can be seen holding a Teisco MJ-2L.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Teisco MJ-2L, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Yamaha MM6 Digital Pianos
1
Shure SM58
Shure SM58 Dynamic Microphones
1

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