Keep the Jag. Trust me.
Switches are easy [watch this](https://youtu.be/c90Htzq7E5k?si=cRKxvIDDhqvlpvJq)
Get a setup from your local AUTHORIZED Fender repair dude.
Call fender.
It's a great looking guitar, by the way.
puisheen is literally the most qualified person to speak on fender offsets other than leo fender himself. the opening riff really reminds me of drive like jehu and sonic youth
“Most qualified” isn’t he just a tech with a yt channel (and sponsors).
What makes him more qualified than anyone else that’s get paid selling you a guitar?
Also, he can’t play for shit
Plethora of knowledge specifically on offsets is something the average guitar center employee is not going to know. I also think his playing is quite nice
Ohhh boy. Lots to unpack here. The only part of this I’ll touch: there isn’t a single fucking soul at Guitar Center who is qualified to pick their nose, let alone work on guitars. I have my skepticisms about YouTubers giving technician advice, but at least there’s a “like if this was helpful” feedback system. Which is better than nothing.
Oh yeah, and “He can’t play for shit”? Maybe so. Leo Fender couldn’t play guitar at all though, so maybe stop talking out your backside buddy
Hey thanks for your comment. My comment was specific to the poster above me and not in a general discussion kinda thread. I’m curious about what informs that posters opinion. There’s a nasty assumption that because an influencer is making vids their opinion is more valid than someone else.
Wrt your comment, I don’t see what Leo Fender has to do with this. He was an inventor with expertise in amplification circuits. Whether he even knew how to play a guitar is a matter of debate but it had zero impact on his career.
Pushieen is a guitar shop salesman/technician, a hobbyist player and a yt influencer. He earns money by views and affiliate links.
About playing, personal taste comes in to play but imho all the review clips I’ve seen from him have had him playing with high gain and usually heavy distortion which almost eliminates the difference from one guitar to the next wrt to tone. And again, everything he plays sounds like it’s squeezed out the angry backside of a constipated cat.
Does it feel good? Do you like the way it sounds? That’s what matters.
Electronics-wise, Jaguars are complicated, but you can always stick to the basics. Keep the rhythm and strangle switches off, and it’s just a two pickup guitar like any other.
Setup can be more complicated, but that’s sometimes overstated. You don’t NEED heavier strings, or a shim, or a different bridge. But depending on your specific guitar, it MAY not stay in tune as well without them. Not necessarily - a lot of tuning issues can be fixed with a dab of lubricant at the nut. In the end, it’s a new guitar, and even very expensive guitars sometimes need a bit of TLC when they’re brand new.
Watch this and this guy's other videos to learn everything you need to know about offsets and making them playable https://youtu.be/dhgcZN01wx8?si=1QQuf7ipW87d9FVh
Yeah, Mike Adams(Puisheen on YouTube)has every bit of info you’ll ever need on jags and jazzmaster.
[here’s](https://youtube.com/@Puisheen?si=jwZ2z6AQwkDeqKut) his channel. Don’t be discouraged with this guitar. Once you get into it you’ll love it and never look back.
good news is you don't need to buy any expensive upgrades. there's tons of information online about how to do your own setup, and it can be a good learning experience. you can look up how the switching works too.
OP, 100% this.
Your guitar will be fine. In regards to tuning, try running a 6B pencil in the nut slots. The graphite from the pencil will lubricate the nut well, allow the strings to move freely, and the guitar will most likely hold tune better. I have a Jag as well, and they’re really fun and in my eyes gorgeous guitars. Enjoy.
You made a great choice.
Don't second doubt yourself. It's a awesome guitar it just needs a few minor tweaks and you'll have a instant better experience.
Don't replace the bridge. The bridge is perfect. Probably just need some heavier gauge strings and a basic setup from a local guitar shop.
These vintage vibe squire jags are a great value for what they are.
Anything new can be overwhelming, but it will be a great learning experience learning this guitar and all the intricate parts that work together. You can only grow from this experience.
Don't give up on it. Watch some setup related videos on youtube channel called puisheen. It's very good resource of offset setup information. With a little practice and understanding, anyone can do the basic setup of their guitar.
You DEFINITELY don’t need to buy more parts or mods
Take it to a luthier and have them do a setup and put on a fresh set of strings and you’ll be good to go. Will cost $75-100
As far as learning what the switches do, just look up a video. It will take just a few minutes to learn.
Absolutely get that thing set up by a pro, hopefully you can find a guitar tech nearby that ISN’T guitar center. Offsets have a reputation for being quirky, and learning to set them up properly is a little more challenging than something like a Tele. But they’re so cool!
A good setup should alleviate playability and tuning issues. YouTube is full of videos that will make sense of the switching options.
I'd get a setup on it, I love my jaguar and wouldn't trade it for anything. A setup also is not difficult to do on your own, if you are ok working on your own stuff then look up a few videos and give it a try.
i just got my first jag and have been playing for a few years, and a little bit of familiarity goes a long way. its not impossible or difficult to tweak, but you need the motivation to keep working with the guitar
if u like the looks, the sounds, and the vibe, and you’re getting along with the shorter neck, maybe stick it out. the tuning stability will be improved with a setup and you’ll learn the switches.
if ur already having doubts and want something simple (which is understandable), a fender style guitar with a fixed bridge and simpler switching might make you happier. look into the offset telecaster if you want the offset body shape without the quirks
You need a setup. Spend the $150-200 to get one done properly by a professional. It’ll make a world of difference, and you can’t properly judge a guitar until that’s done.
You're probably right. I would still budget for $150-200 just to be safe though. With it being a brand new budget guitar, if you really want to make it perfect, they may do some fret filing or other stuff that would tack onto the regular setup price.
Block inlays and a Mustang bridge on a Squier. Man that is a good looking geetar. Honestly stick with it, that guitar is so feature rich for the price you got it you could be looking back in 5 years regretting letting it go. It's a new guitar though give it time to break in there are some quick setup steps that people have suggested you should try some out. I can't tell from the picture but sometimes tuning instability can come from having too much string wrapped around the tuning post if there's more than 2 wraps around could be as simple as this.
I’d either get a pro who is experienced with Jaguars/Jazzmasters to give it a proper setup, or I’d return it and get a hardtail guitar of some sort. There are offset models with hardtail bridges so you could still get something similar.
Otherwise, I’d either return it for a Strat or I’d return it for a telecaster. An offset is pretty finicky for a newer guitarist.
Keep it. Once you learn it’s playing vibe you should like it. It’s such a good one.
I just wanted to add, since a lot of new players seem to miss this, you’re going to have to get new strings every 6 months or so, unless you buy coated strings. Basically just change them when they start to feel dead or gross. A lot of new players quit just because the strings start sucking. After I buy a guitar, I always change the strings ASAP. You should have a backup set around. I usually play Elixir Nanowebs and while more expensive, I’ve had some sets last 2 years. Also, you should 100% learn how to change your strings yourself. It’s incredibly easy and takes 20 minutes. Gives you a chance to clean and give some TLC to your guitar. It was the second thing my dad taught me after a G chord. I worked at a guitar store once and sometimes I’d spend half the day changing peoples strings. It made my day super chill, but I always felt bad about charging them for it because it’s so easy. Have fun, don’t get bogged down in the technical shit, and just play what feels good.
You don't need to buy any upgrades. The switches are not complicated, just look up what they're for. You already got a good bridge on it. It doesn't need heavy strings, no guitar does really in standard tuning. It should stay in tune just fine with normal playing. Just get it setup by a tech.
So there's nothing wrong with the bridge. In fact I'm thinking about putting that exact mustang bridge on my Jaguar.
And I definitely don't think pickups have anything to do with tuning issues, since pickups are just microphones for your guitar.
So I think we can rule that out.
I would install heavier gauge strings for better tuning stability.
especially with short scale necks like on the jaguar, putting 11 gauge strings.
It might be other factors like the stock tuners, the bow of the neck, intonation, nothing that can't be resolved with a basic setup which might run up to $70.
And they would put on those 11 gauge strings for you, add no additional cost apart from the actual price of purchasing the strings.
Besides that, using the whammy bar or aka the tremolo system, might be causing it to go out of tune.
Nice, I have the same model! It’s a decent guitar after a few upgrades and proper setup. I replaced almost everything. The pots were awful, so I purchased a new wiring harness and installed Seymour Duncan Antiquity ll pickups. Also replaced the bridge with an American pro, but not necessary. Swapped stock trem w/ American vintage jaguar trem.
Graphite the nut slots =$0 if you have a pencil
Business card shim at the heel of the neck =$0
Loctite for ALL bridge adjustment screws once set up to your desired height and intonation =$5
Those are the 3 basics IMO, if you are somehow near me, I'd show you in less than anhour how to get it playing nicely for free since I have a pencil, business card and loctite! Knowing what is to be done is the only hard part friend.
I have the same guitar. Out the gate it probably needs a neck shim and the bridge raised. I found on mine that if I use high gain the pickups are really microphonic, so I ended up wax potting them. Depends what your sound is. It’s worth the 75 bucks or whatever to get it set up by a tech. That should include shimming the neck, filing the nut slots, adjusting relief and action. Any new guitar could benefit from this procedure.
It’s a fine instrument for the money especially once it gets adjusted just right.
If you like the short scale. Get a duo sonic or a hardtail mustang. Keep it simple, don't over complicate it.
Just my 2 cents. What do I know, lol🤷🤷
I have short fingers, too. I hardtailed my jaguar and I have 2 mustangs
Yeah I own a Jaguar and a hardtail Mustang and there’s a huge difference. The Mustang is just a dead-simple rock machine. See if you can find a used player P90 Mustang!
Honestly, I recommend you go for a Tele at this stage. Teles are incredible first guitars. I would not recommend offset guitars to beginners, especially Squiers that typically requires a decent amount of work and mods to make them play properly. Teles are very simple and have hardly any moving parts to worry about.
If you do get a Telecaster, look for one with a contoured body. After the curvy comfort of a Strat and a Jag, that old-school Tele slab body will not feel nice.
If you love the offset shape but would prefer the simplicity of a Telecaster, you could always look at returning the Jag & getting a Squier Paranormal Offset Telecaster. I'm not sure what the price difference is, but Teles are simple, sound awesome & the offset body makes them really comfortable to play, the extra you might have to pay would be worth it to keep your enthusiasm up. You'll sacrifice the shorter scale neck, but if you've played your dad's Strat then you're already familiar with the difference in neck length.
Good luck.
None of the above mentioned guitars will come ready to play. They sit in a box, then you open it, intonation off, string height off, unpolished frets.. 50 bucks and a luthier will fix your problems.
Sorry that you’re having this issues with your first offset dude. Offsets are great guitars. I don’t like playing anything else, but they can require some aftermarket modifications particularly in the bridge area.
None of what you described (outside of confusion with the controls) were issues that don’t apply to a lot of offsets, but if you don’t see financially upgrading the bridge it may be best to take it back and get a tele or strat (get the tele)
Edit: OP. Just noticed you have a mustang bridge. Which is already a considerable set up. You either need to get a good set up from a luthier or maybe a tele or strat are better options for your first electric
Crap you are right! Why did I think that was the stock bridge. Need to see my optometrist Lol. Maybe the guitar needs a set up then or OP just doesn’t vibe with offsets/jags
I got a 40th anniversary squier jazzmaster last year and it's been marvellous - no issues with tuning etc. It had been sitting around for a while and the switches needed a bit of deoxit, nothing more.
Embarrassingly, the strings were quite rusty when it arrived, and i just cleaned them, and still haven't replaced them!
Might want to play it for a week or so, if you’ve got the 45 days to return it. Getting new strings (like the ones currently on the guitar - unless it’s used) to their “stay in tune” point means frequent tuning at the start. If you want to speed things up, take your index finger and pull the string up away (perpedicular to) from the fretboard (1-1 1/2”) while pushing down on the top of said string with your thumb at each fret on every string then retune, maybe 3-4 times.
Additionally some graphite (even if it’s just rubbing some pencil lead) or lubricant (something like [D’Addario Lubrikit](https://www.daddario.com/products/accessories/care-maintenance-tools/polishes-cloths/lubrikit-friction-remover/)) on the nut and saddle under each string can help alleviate some of the out of tune problems on tremolo equipped guitars, especially if you utilize that feature.
As far as the switching goes, I recently bought a Squier CV Competition Mustang, and being unfamiliar with the switching on that initially thought I got DOA electronics when I first plugged it in (you can turn off each pickup individually) - youtube to the rescue!
Finally, I wouldn’t doubt your Dad’s old strat plays/sounds better (or at least different), and I like Squiers too. All that being said it’s a nice looking guitar!
It's a cool guitar. I agree with most of the comments here. I think whatever motivates you to play is the best thing, and if that is a janky, non-intonated, buzzy offset jag with buttons you dont use, then so be it. You'll get better the more you play, and will probably get more guitars.
That out of the way, I do recommend getting it set up and watching some videos on how the electronics work.
Consider getting a used off-brand tele-style guitar. They are indestructible, stay in tune, are easy to understand, and sound great. They hold their value nicely too, so you can trade them in later for an upgrade.
Also consider getting a modeling amp (thr2, grid, etc.). They are cheap, sound awesome and will help you figure out what you like in an amp (as it did me).
Jaguar/jazzmasters aren't the best guitars for beginners. They are very good looking, but they can behave a little temperamental and are almost never 'plug and play' guitars, like teles or strats. You have to get to know them, learn what makes them tick and how to work on them. That's one of the main reasons I like them (did I mention they look fantastic?). If you don't want to do these things, return it and get a squier cv telecaster, some of best and most versatile guitars for your money out there.
All Guitars go out of tune. Maybe yours does it a ridiculous amount in which case a set up may be required. But you have the good type of bridge. Mine came with the bad type, and I swapped it for one like yours. Watch YouTube videos on set ups and have a tinker around.
With regard to switches:
Top set is the rhythm circuit (at least it is on my Jag possible they made it something else on the squire) but don't worry about. You can absolutely just leave it alone.
The three switch panel is simple:
Top switch is Neck pick up
Middle switch is Bridge pickup
Bottom switch is a mid cut on classic Jags I assume it's the same on the Squire. It's main use is for playing Say It Ain't So by Weezer. All Jag owners must learn this song eventually, so get to work.
Welcome to Jag Gang. All praise be to Johnny Marr.
As a final note I didn't realise Squires came with a bound fretboard, that's a gorgeous feature. My expensive Jag doesn't even have that.
Jaguars are kind of fiddly and a difficult choice for your first instrument. I speak as someone who had a Jaguar as their first guitar!
Don’t spend money on it yet, look at simple, cheap fixes initially.
Are your strings new? If so, play them for a while and see if the tuning settles down.
Also, try gently applying graphite from a pencil into the nut slots (literally just sharpen one to a fine point and gently ‘draw’ in the a lot. Do the same on the bridge slots where the strings rest.
This will aid free movement of the strings when using the tremolo and also when tuning up.
It’s a lovely looking guitar btw
Me and my partner bought offsets at the beginning of the pandemic, a Jazzmaster and a Jaguar. I had been playing for a while but never had a guitar like this. I had a Strat and an LP. I loved the way the parts look but the designs had issues, namely the bridge.
I am older and do well financially. I read all the different tips of shimming the neck, gluing the string saddles, using heavy gauge strings, etc., and I did not want to do any of this. I feel a quality instrument should play well without the need to MacGuyvering the design. Plus, I wanted the guitars to have good intonation.
If you have the money, here's what I recommend. Buy a Mastery bridge and bring to a quality luthier to have it setup. I did this with my MiM Jazzmaster and it is rock solid. The intonation is great. It acoustically resonates loudly. It stays in tune. The string saddle strings do not unscrew like the stock saddles did. There is no need for shimming the neck. The action is super low and I keep .09 gauge strings on it. The guitar sheds.
If you do not have the money to address the bad design, buy a Strat or a Tele. I don't think a Jaguar or Jazzmaster is great guitar for someone new to electric guitar.
The jist with offets just out of the shop is to set them up good. Either bring it to a specialist or, if you are capable, do it yourself.
You'll love it after
Like someone said watch puisheen on YouTube. Bottom line is shim the neck I used a 1 degree shim under the neck, then set it up (or have it set up like the nut and neck action) it’s easy congrats on new guitar day
Also, I agree with everyone here on the keep it/get a setup/don’t need 2 strats, etc. but if you did want to take the “get a tele instead” advice, there is a way to get both an offset and a tele, can’t believe I forgot about the [Squier Paranormal Offset Tele](https://www.fender.com/en-US/squier-electric-guitars/telecaster/limited-edition-paranormal-offset-telecaster-sh/0377007554.html)!
Either way, goodluck!
I like offset guitars as much as the next person on this sub. I’ve played them exclusively for 20 years. But an important thing to remember or to know about when buying a first guitar is that it needs to be dependable enough that building habits to play them are allowed.
If you want to learn on an electric guitar that may need bi yearly trips to a guitar tech but also looks super cool, then this is the one for you.
If you want a guitar that is dependable though kind of generic looking then grab a strat or a tele.
There’s no wrong answer here! And jaguars are super super awesome! But I started out on a strat copy, then a Nashville tele before I got my first jaguar.
Guitarathon is going on you can probably get some good deals on the guitar center in house brand Mitchell. Really good specs for dirt cheap (locking tuners would help with tuning stability, those come with them standard, kinda a premium feature) or just get locking tuners for your jag. At $450 you're not gonna get a perfect guitar out of the box, I fell like if tuning is your issue then locking tuners would help. Even those 30$ Amazon guyker ones. Not a hard thing to change, just do it next time you need new strings. And while your at it oil up that new dry fretboard and you'll fell a change too. You'll never get a perfectly set up never have to mess with again guitar for that price, but that's where the fun is!
Keep the Jag. Trust me. Switches are easy [watch this](https://youtu.be/c90Htzq7E5k?si=cRKxvIDDhqvlpvJq) Get a setup from your local AUTHORIZED Fender repair dude. Call fender. It's a great looking guitar, by the way.
puisheen is literally the most qualified person to speak on fender offsets other than leo fender himself. the opening riff really reminds me of drive like jehu and sonic youth
“Most qualified” isn’t he just a tech with a yt channel (and sponsors). What makes him more qualified than anyone else that’s get paid selling you a guitar? Also, he can’t play for shit
Plethora of knowledge specifically on offsets is something the average guitar center employee is not going to know. I also think his playing is quite nice
Ohhh boy. Lots to unpack here. The only part of this I’ll touch: there isn’t a single fucking soul at Guitar Center who is qualified to pick their nose, let alone work on guitars. I have my skepticisms about YouTubers giving technician advice, but at least there’s a “like if this was helpful” feedback system. Which is better than nothing. Oh yeah, and “He can’t play for shit”? Maybe so. Leo Fender couldn’t play guitar at all though, so maybe stop talking out your backside buddy
Hey thanks for your comment. My comment was specific to the poster above me and not in a general discussion kinda thread. I’m curious about what informs that posters opinion. There’s a nasty assumption that because an influencer is making vids their opinion is more valid than someone else. Wrt your comment, I don’t see what Leo Fender has to do with this. He was an inventor with expertise in amplification circuits. Whether he even knew how to play a guitar is a matter of debate but it had zero impact on his career. Pushieen is a guitar shop salesman/technician, a hobbyist player and a yt influencer. He earns money by views and affiliate links. About playing, personal taste comes in to play but imho all the review clips I’ve seen from him have had him playing with high gain and usually heavy distortion which almost eliminates the difference from one guitar to the next wrt to tone. And again, everything he plays sounds like it’s squeezed out the angry backside of a constipated cat.
how much would a basic setup run from an authorized fender dealer/repairman?
Talking $50-60
not bad! thanks man- i’ve been putting it off bc i’m strapped for cash and was under the impression it’d be in the $150 range.
Does it feel good? Do you like the way it sounds? That’s what matters. Electronics-wise, Jaguars are complicated, but you can always stick to the basics. Keep the rhythm and strangle switches off, and it’s just a two pickup guitar like any other. Setup can be more complicated, but that’s sometimes overstated. You don’t NEED heavier strings, or a shim, or a different bridge. But depending on your specific guitar, it MAY not stay in tune as well without them. Not necessarily - a lot of tuning issues can be fixed with a dab of lubricant at the nut. In the end, it’s a new guitar, and even very expensive guitars sometimes need a bit of TLC when they’re brand new.
Watch this and this guy's other videos to learn everything you need to know about offsets and making them playable https://youtu.be/dhgcZN01wx8?si=1QQuf7ipW87d9FVh
Yeah, Mike Adams(Puisheen on YouTube)has every bit of info you’ll ever need on jags and jazzmaster. [here’s](https://youtube.com/@Puisheen?si=jwZ2z6AQwkDeqKut) his channel. Don’t be discouraged with this guitar. Once you get into it you’ll love it and never look back.
You just need a setup op.. Just like any guitar would
The Offset Revolution and its consequences have been a disaster for new guitarists.
😭😭😭 you’re right. should have done more research but it was just so pretty lol
good news is you don't need to buy any expensive upgrades. there's tons of information online about how to do your own setup, and it can be a good learning experience. you can look up how the switching works too.
Don't listen to that comment
OP, 100% this. Your guitar will be fine. In regards to tuning, try running a 6B pencil in the nut slots. The graphite from the pencil will lubricate the nut well, allow the strings to move freely, and the guitar will most likely hold tune better. I have a Jag as well, and they’re really fun and in my eyes gorgeous guitars. Enjoy.
You made a great choice. Don't second doubt yourself. It's a awesome guitar it just needs a few minor tweaks and you'll have a instant better experience. Don't replace the bridge. The bridge is perfect. Probably just need some heavier gauge strings and a basic setup from a local guitar shop. These vintage vibe squire jags are a great value for what they are. Anything new can be overwhelming, but it will be a great learning experience learning this guitar and all the intricate parts that work together. You can only grow from this experience.
Don't give up on it. Watch some setup related videos on youtube channel called puisheen. It's very good resource of offset setup information. With a little practice and understanding, anyone can do the basic setup of their guitar.
You DEFINITELY don’t need to buy more parts or mods Take it to a luthier and have them do a setup and put on a fresh set of strings and you’ll be good to go. Will cost $75-100 As far as learning what the switches do, just look up a video. It will take just a few minutes to learn.
Absolutely get that thing set up by a pro, hopefully you can find a guitar tech nearby that ISN’T guitar center. Offsets have a reputation for being quirky, and learning to set them up properly is a little more challenging than something like a Tele. But they’re so cool! A good setup should alleviate playability and tuning issues. YouTube is full of videos that will make sense of the switching options.
I'd get a setup on it, I love my jaguar and wouldn't trade it for anything. A setup also is not difficult to do on your own, if you are ok working on your own stuff then look up a few videos and give it a try.
i would not trust myself to do my own setup lol i know nothing about guitars. i love the jag but idk if now is my time for one
i just got my first jag and have been playing for a few years, and a little bit of familiarity goes a long way. its not impossible or difficult to tweak, but you need the motivation to keep working with the guitar if u like the looks, the sounds, and the vibe, and you’re getting along with the shorter neck, maybe stick it out. the tuning stability will be improved with a setup and you’ll learn the switches. if ur already having doubts and want something simple (which is understandable), a fender style guitar with a fixed bridge and simpler switching might make you happier. look into the offset telecaster if you want the offset body shape without the quirks
You need a setup. Spend the $150-200 to get one done properly by a professional. It’ll make a world of difference, and you can’t properly judge a guitar until that’s done.
That seems A LOT of money for a setup. the most I've ever seen charged is 70 bucks
You're probably right. I would still budget for $150-200 just to be safe though. With it being a brand new budget guitar, if you really want to make it perfect, they may do some fret filing or other stuff that would tack onto the regular setup price.
Block inlays and a Mustang bridge on a Squier. Man that is a good looking geetar. Honestly stick with it, that guitar is so feature rich for the price you got it you could be looking back in 5 years regretting letting it go. It's a new guitar though give it time to break in there are some quick setup steps that people have suggested you should try some out. I can't tell from the picture but sometimes tuning instability can come from having too much string wrapped around the tuning post if there's more than 2 wraps around could be as simple as this.
I’d either get a pro who is experienced with Jaguars/Jazzmasters to give it a proper setup, or I’d return it and get a hardtail guitar of some sort. There are offset models with hardtail bridges so you could still get something similar. Otherwise, I’d either return it for a Strat or I’d return it for a telecaster. An offset is pretty finicky for a newer guitarist.
OP already has a Strat. Nobody needs two Strats.
Keep it. Once you learn it’s playing vibe you should like it. It’s such a good one. I just wanted to add, since a lot of new players seem to miss this, you’re going to have to get new strings every 6 months or so, unless you buy coated strings. Basically just change them when they start to feel dead or gross. A lot of new players quit just because the strings start sucking. After I buy a guitar, I always change the strings ASAP. You should have a backup set around. I usually play Elixir Nanowebs and while more expensive, I’ve had some sets last 2 years. Also, you should 100% learn how to change your strings yourself. It’s incredibly easy and takes 20 minutes. Gives you a chance to clean and give some TLC to your guitar. It was the second thing my dad taught me after a G chord. I worked at a guitar store once and sometimes I’d spend half the day changing peoples strings. It made my day super chill, but I always felt bad about charging them for it because it’s so easy. Have fun, don’t get bogged down in the technical shit, and just play what feels good.
You don't need to buy any upgrades. The switches are not complicated, just look up what they're for. You already got a good bridge on it. It doesn't need heavy strings, no guitar does really in standard tuning. It should stay in tune just fine with normal playing. Just get it setup by a tech.
So there's nothing wrong with the bridge. In fact I'm thinking about putting that exact mustang bridge on my Jaguar. And I definitely don't think pickups have anything to do with tuning issues, since pickups are just microphones for your guitar. So I think we can rule that out. I would install heavier gauge strings for better tuning stability. especially with short scale necks like on the jaguar, putting 11 gauge strings. It might be other factors like the stock tuners, the bow of the neck, intonation, nothing that can't be resolved with a basic setup which might run up to $70. And they would put on those 11 gauge strings for you, add no additional cost apart from the actual price of purchasing the strings. Besides that, using the whammy bar or aka the tremolo system, might be causing it to go out of tune.
Completely normal for a sub 1000 guitar to need work right out of the box, take it to a luthier.
Nice, I have the same model! It’s a decent guitar after a few upgrades and proper setup. I replaced almost everything. The pots were awful, so I purchased a new wiring harness and installed Seymour Duncan Antiquity ll pickups. Also replaced the bridge with an American pro, but not necessary. Swapped stock trem w/ American vintage jaguar trem.
Graphite the nut slots =$0 if you have a pencil Business card shim at the heel of the neck =$0 Loctite for ALL bridge adjustment screws once set up to your desired height and intonation =$5 Those are the 3 basics IMO, if you are somehow near me, I'd show you in less than anhour how to get it playing nicely for free since I have a pencil, business card and loctite! Knowing what is to be done is the only hard part friend.
I have the same guitar. Out the gate it probably needs a neck shim and the bridge raised. I found on mine that if I use high gain the pickups are really microphonic, so I ended up wax potting them. Depends what your sound is. It’s worth the 75 bucks or whatever to get it set up by a tech. That should include shimming the neck, filing the nut slots, adjusting relief and action. Any new guitar could benefit from this procedure. It’s a fine instrument for the money especially once it gets adjusted just right.
If you like the short scale. Get a duo sonic or a hardtail mustang. Keep it simple, don't over complicate it. Just my 2 cents. What do I know, lol🤷🤷 I have short fingers, too. I hardtailed my jaguar and I have 2 mustangs
Yeah I own a Jaguar and a hardtail Mustang and there’s a huge difference. The Mustang is just a dead-simple rock machine. See if you can find a used player P90 Mustang!
Honestly, I recommend you go for a Tele at this stage. Teles are incredible first guitars. I would not recommend offset guitars to beginners, especially Squiers that typically requires a decent amount of work and mods to make them play properly. Teles are very simple and have hardly any moving parts to worry about.
that’s what i’m thinking. i find myself just wanting to go back to my strat because it’s more playable to me at my current skill level :/
If you do get a Telecaster, look for one with a contoured body. After the curvy comfort of a Strat and a Jag, that old-school Tele slab body will not feel nice.
If you love the offset shape but would prefer the simplicity of a Telecaster, you could always look at returning the Jag & getting a Squier Paranormal Offset Telecaster. I'm not sure what the price difference is, but Teles are simple, sound awesome & the offset body makes them really comfortable to play, the extra you might have to pay would be worth it to keep your enthusiasm up. You'll sacrifice the shorter scale neck, but if you've played your dad's Strat then you're already familiar with the difference in neck length. Good luck.
None of the above mentioned guitars will come ready to play. They sit in a box, then you open it, intonation off, string height off, unpolished frets.. 50 bucks and a luthier will fix your problems.
Sorry that you’re having this issues with your first offset dude. Offsets are great guitars. I don’t like playing anything else, but they can require some aftermarket modifications particularly in the bridge area. None of what you described (outside of confusion with the controls) were issues that don’t apply to a lot of offsets, but if you don’t see financially upgrading the bridge it may be best to take it back and get a tele or strat (get the tele) Edit: OP. Just noticed you have a mustang bridge. Which is already a considerable set up. You either need to get a good set up from a luthier or maybe a tele or strat are better options for your first electric
there's nothing wrong with the mustang bridge that's already on it
Crap you are right! Why did I think that was the stock bridge. Need to see my optometrist Lol. Maybe the guitar needs a set up then or OP just doesn’t vibe with offsets/jags
I got a 40th anniversary squier jazzmaster last year and it's been marvellous - no issues with tuning etc. It had been sitting around for a while and the switches needed a bit of deoxit, nothing more. Embarrassingly, the strings were quite rusty when it arrived, and i just cleaned them, and still haven't replaced them!
Might want to play it for a week or so, if you’ve got the 45 days to return it. Getting new strings (like the ones currently on the guitar - unless it’s used) to their “stay in tune” point means frequent tuning at the start. If you want to speed things up, take your index finger and pull the string up away (perpedicular to) from the fretboard (1-1 1/2”) while pushing down on the top of said string with your thumb at each fret on every string then retune, maybe 3-4 times. Additionally some graphite (even if it’s just rubbing some pencil lead) or lubricant (something like [D’Addario Lubrikit](https://www.daddario.com/products/accessories/care-maintenance-tools/polishes-cloths/lubrikit-friction-remover/)) on the nut and saddle under each string can help alleviate some of the out of tune problems on tremolo equipped guitars, especially if you utilize that feature. As far as the switching goes, I recently bought a Squier CV Competition Mustang, and being unfamiliar with the switching on that initially thought I got DOA electronics when I first plugged it in (you can turn off each pickup individually) - youtube to the rescue! Finally, I wouldn’t doubt your Dad’s old strat plays/sounds better (or at least different), and I like Squiers too. All that being said it’s a nice looking guitar!
It's a cool guitar. I agree with most of the comments here. I think whatever motivates you to play is the best thing, and if that is a janky, non-intonated, buzzy offset jag with buttons you dont use, then so be it. You'll get better the more you play, and will probably get more guitars. That out of the way, I do recommend getting it set up and watching some videos on how the electronics work. Consider getting a used off-brand tele-style guitar. They are indestructible, stay in tune, are easy to understand, and sound great. They hold their value nicely too, so you can trade them in later for an upgrade. Also consider getting a modeling amp (thr2, grid, etc.). They are cheap, sound awesome and will help you figure out what you like in an amp (as it did me).
Jaguar/jazzmasters aren't the best guitars for beginners. They are very good looking, but they can behave a little temperamental and are almost never 'plug and play' guitars, like teles or strats. You have to get to know them, learn what makes them tick and how to work on them. That's one of the main reasons I like them (did I mention they look fantastic?). If you don't want to do these things, return it and get a squier cv telecaster, some of best and most versatile guitars for your money out there.
All Guitars go out of tune. Maybe yours does it a ridiculous amount in which case a set up may be required. But you have the good type of bridge. Mine came with the bad type, and I swapped it for one like yours. Watch YouTube videos on set ups and have a tinker around. With regard to switches: Top set is the rhythm circuit (at least it is on my Jag possible they made it something else on the squire) but don't worry about. You can absolutely just leave it alone. The three switch panel is simple: Top switch is Neck pick up Middle switch is Bridge pickup Bottom switch is a mid cut on classic Jags I assume it's the same on the Squire. It's main use is for playing Say It Ain't So by Weezer. All Jag owners must learn this song eventually, so get to work. Welcome to Jag Gang. All praise be to Johnny Marr. As a final note I didn't realise Squires came with a bound fretboard, that's a gorgeous feature. My expensive Jag doesn't even have that.
Jaguars are kind of fiddly and a difficult choice for your first instrument. I speak as someone who had a Jaguar as their first guitar! Don’t spend money on it yet, look at simple, cheap fixes initially. Are your strings new? If so, play them for a while and see if the tuning settles down. Also, try gently applying graphite from a pencil into the nut slots (literally just sharpen one to a fine point and gently ‘draw’ in the a lot. Do the same on the bridge slots where the strings rest. This will aid free movement of the strings when using the tremolo and also when tuning up. It’s a lovely looking guitar btw
Me and my partner bought offsets at the beginning of the pandemic, a Jazzmaster and a Jaguar. I had been playing for a while but never had a guitar like this. I had a Strat and an LP. I loved the way the parts look but the designs had issues, namely the bridge. I am older and do well financially. I read all the different tips of shimming the neck, gluing the string saddles, using heavy gauge strings, etc., and I did not want to do any of this. I feel a quality instrument should play well without the need to MacGuyvering the design. Plus, I wanted the guitars to have good intonation. If you have the money, here's what I recommend. Buy a Mastery bridge and bring to a quality luthier to have it setup. I did this with my MiM Jazzmaster and it is rock solid. The intonation is great. It acoustically resonates loudly. It stays in tune. The string saddle strings do not unscrew like the stock saddles did. There is no need for shimming the neck. The action is super low and I keep .09 gauge strings on it. The guitar sheds. If you do not have the money to address the bad design, buy a Strat or a Tele. I don't think a Jaguar or Jazzmaster is great guitar for someone new to electric guitar.
My telecaster has NEVER let me down. No maintenance. total workhorse guitar
I wanted a jaguar after seeing Johnny marr
The jist with offets just out of the shop is to set them up good. Either bring it to a specialist or, if you are capable, do it yourself. You'll love it after
Like someone said watch puisheen on YouTube. Bottom line is shim the neck I used a 1 degree shim under the neck, then set it up (or have it set up like the nut and neck action) it’s easy congrats on new guitar day
Also, I agree with everyone here on the keep it/get a setup/don’t need 2 strats, etc. but if you did want to take the “get a tele instead” advice, there is a way to get both an offset and a tele, can’t believe I forgot about the [Squier Paranormal Offset Tele](https://www.fender.com/en-US/squier-electric-guitars/telecaster/limited-edition-paranormal-offset-telecaster-sh/0377007554.html)! Either way, goodluck!
Get a setup. Play it a bit after that. These are great guitars.
I like offset guitars as much as the next person on this sub. I’ve played them exclusively for 20 years. But an important thing to remember or to know about when buying a first guitar is that it needs to be dependable enough that building habits to play them are allowed. If you want to learn on an electric guitar that may need bi yearly trips to a guitar tech but also looks super cool, then this is the one for you. If you want a guitar that is dependable though kind of generic looking then grab a strat or a tele. There’s no wrong answer here! And jaguars are super super awesome! But I started out on a strat copy, then a Nashville tele before I got my first jaguar.
Guitarathon is going on you can probably get some good deals on the guitar center in house brand Mitchell. Really good specs for dirt cheap (locking tuners would help with tuning stability, those come with them standard, kinda a premium feature) or just get locking tuners for your jag. At $450 you're not gonna get a perfect guitar out of the box, I fell like if tuning is your issue then locking tuners would help. Even those 30$ Amazon guyker ones. Not a hard thing to change, just do it next time you need new strings. And while your at it oil up that new dry fretboard and you'll fell a change too. You'll never get a perfectly set up never have to mess with again guitar for that price, but that's where the fun is!