Shim the neck back and raise the bridge. You have to set short scale fenders up like arched top guitars to get a better break angle over the bridge. If you've ever played a vintage fender offset they all have their necks angled back like a gibson
The Guitar Manifesto Have you ever tried 11's on a jag? I use 10 gauge too but I'm just wondering what the differences would be. I guess the 10s have more slack.
@@narichey1981 I agree! As a guitar gets shorter it requires more string tension: shorter scale = higher string gauge. Not only will the tremolo and bridge float MUCH nicer, but you'll have normal slack in your playing and no buzz at all!
I received my CV70's Jaguar Surf Green a few days ago. I swapped the bridge for a Tune O Matic with rollers, wedged the neck, fret polishing and cleaning (a lot of cleaning) and fretboard hydration ... maybe too much work for a new guitar, the electronics just work fine, the Pickups sound great to my ears and the tuners are correct. It is now one of my favorite guitars. Greetings 💪💪🎸🎸👍👍
Put a shim in the neck pocket and use heavy strings. That's what I've learned from setting up a VM Jazzmaster and several Mustangs and that's also how the original Jags came from the Fender factory in the early 60's. If the saddles move around because the springs are not strong enough you could try some Loctite. This usually works very well.
Got one for a Jazzmaster. The B string 'drum' makes a slapping sound when you play with fingers. That's corrected by putting a thin piece of plastic between the B snd E 'drums'
The big mistake is using strings smaller than 11's on a Jaguar. This guitar wasn't designed to be strung with super slinkys. If set up properly with the correct strings, everything works just as Leo designed it to.
Also, I recall reading that these guitars do better with heavier gauge strings, like 11's. Maybe that cures the bridge saddle issues with the additional tension?
For having more tension and angle on bridge there is a thing called "buzzstop". You can try them but a friend of mine said that when you use buzzstop the trem doesnt come back to it's normal position. I haven't tried them.
Thanks for the interesting video. I just got the same CV 70's Jaguar a few days ago. Fortunately, I haven't had any problems with it. after watching this video the first time, I went and ordered some chrome telecaster knobs. I'm also going to take off those 9's ad put some 10's on it. Some reviewers insists you put 11's on this guitar but my old, small hands just can't handle 11's.
sadly through the years, i've had troubles with anything stock on a guitar that cost 500 and less. but replacement parts thankfully even today aren't SUPER expensive
pleased to see they're providing a proper 3 ply tortoise now, (on the old model it just looked like burnt/melted cheese) I know it's only a small thing but it used to mean extra money just so the pickguard looked ok.
Instead of plastic tape, you can also use Copper or aluminum tape. I find this adds a bit to the overall sustain. I prefer the copper tape. This also works much better with copper tape on the old MIJ Jag's and Jm's that are grounded on the bridge instead of at the trem plate. Another trick I use a lot on these guitars is replacing the thimbles that go in the body with Tune- o- matic thimbles, remove the feet of the fender/squier bridge and drill a hole in them so you get a kind of TOM/Jag-Jm hybrid bridge. Requires some work, but It makes the bridge more stabile.
Hi James, what tuning machines did you get for your Jaguar? I'm looking to upgrade mine but finding something that will work without any drilling/permanent mods is difficult.
@@protochachi I just got some vintage tuners. I really love vintage tuners. I wasn't trying to upgrade. I was just trying to fix a bent one. I actually don't even have it anymore. I sold it so i could buy a couple of other guitars and some records haha.
Once you have the intonation and string height set to preference apparently the bridge rattle can be remedied by dropping some clear nail polish into the bridge screws/springs. Probably a safer option than Loctite superglue method as you can always take off the varnish with nail polish remover.
Personally I wouldn't go with that option, I'm going to shim the neck to increase the break angle also try and replace the springs with some more heavy duty ones
Hi. Did you ever get to the bottom of what was causing the weird “zingy/ringing” noise on the high E? I’ve got a classic vibe Jaguar and I’m getting the exact same noise out of the upgraded Staytrem bridge I’ve put in there. Thanks and great video 👍🏼
I had a similar problem with a replacement bridge on a VM Jazzmaster I had a few years ago. I finally wrapped some fine wire in a loop around the threads from low E to high E... effectively fusing the saddles together. You could hardly see it and it worked a treat. :)
Hi: I didnt have that problem... I was referring to the unwanted movement of the saddle.... but..... a buzz just might be caused by the loosness in that area and vibration? worth a shot. :) @@hossak88
There is a roller assembly available on you tube,and other places im sure,that screws to the trem plate,and increases bridge pressure to never slip again. For about 15.00 its as easy as 2 screws
ive had mine for week , im still teaking it , the bridge is just weird , two posts balanced in thimbles ? the trem is noisy , and it will not stay in tune , ive shimmed it and set the neck relief, raised the bridge and put heavier gague strings on it , iv also spray painted the body in black matte and burnt the chrome plates to bring out the copper , it looks cool as but it still not right
Got mine last Saturday . First thing I recognised was a crooked pickup screw in the bridge pickup . But the worst thing is the bridge is damaged , one foot fell off !!! What aftermarket bridge would fit in there , as it is a 9,5 radius on the frettboard and all aftermarket bridges are 7,5 radius !!
The Guitar Manifesto They offered me the opinion to send it back , but I won‘t let it go . Ordered a Fender Mustang bridge for 9,5 radius from a seller in the US . A bit of an hassle as I‘m I Germany , but I guess it will be fine ! Thanks for your kind reply , peace out ✌️
Johnny Marr says to use 11s power slinky strings with your Jaguar so that's good enough for me.My Blacktop p90 version doesn't have a trem so no worries about wobbly bridge ,it's got a solid tune-a-matic bridge but looking into whether a roller bridge would drop straight in as thinking about Duesenberg Les Trem
I was thinking to get one of these. I went to the local GC to demo it. I liked it a lot and enjoyed the tonal variety. I did not care for the glossy neck (I'm so used to the satin or unfinished necks that it's hard to go back to these). Oddly, I had serious issues with the high E string on their stock model. It got worse the more I played it. It sounded like it was fretting out from the 12th fret on, and even just playing the open string. Seeing the same issue here makes me not want to get one. I was hoping it was a bum Squier...but they might all be problematic.
The neck can be easily sanded down for a satin finish, sound like it needs setting up, also putting a higher gauge string and neck shim in helps out a lot
Thanks for the tip about the tape around the bridge, I was going mental trying to work out why it was going out of tune all the time! I've also had to shim the neck on my CV Jag to get the action where I want it + file the fret ends a bit so they're not sharp. But after all that it's a really nice guitar and I'm loving it, thanks for putting these vids out mate.
Thanks for this video. I thought I really wanted a Jaguar but after watching all the necessary bridge mods and/or bridge replacement plus possibly having to shim the neck no thanks. My old MIA and MIK Fender strats didn't need all those mods; I even bought a cheapo $97.00 Chinese import project guitar and straight out of the box it only needed a little intonation adjustment to play and sound good. Fender should be ashamed.
If I may Sir, I would suggest that you need to increase the break angle, the way to do this is to get a 1* degree neck shim and kick the back of the neck up so you can raise the bridge up.
I bought the Squier Jazzmaster classic vibe 60's with same bridge. After 2 hours of playing the bridge dropped where the strings were hitting the frets from the vibration of playing. They are fussy little buggers. I should have known better owning other Jaguars/Mustangs. Locktight/nail polish on the bridge height screws to keep them from buzzing/dropping. I also have Jazzmaster w/ Adjusto-Matic bridge with incredibly low action and no buzz. I will upgrade my others to Adjusto-matics, eventually. I like the idea of the Mastery bridge, but they are really expensive, and I get great results from the Adjusto-Matic.
My Jazzmaster has a Tuneomatic bridge no problems with that apart from the radius not matching the fingerboard. The stock vintage bridges should be left in the 60s 😂
I read about these problems before buying and did get buzzing after about 20 minutes of play, so I adjusted the bridge to my desired height then dipped it in hot wax, wiped it clean and have had no more problems with this vm jag (even still using origenal strings!)
Shim the neck (american series come this way from the factory) it will change the neck angle enough that you'll have to raise the bridge to get normal string height giving you a sharper break angle over the bridge.
It's cool 😂😂 I actually don't know why I didn't think of it while I was making the video, I even shimmed the neck on a Mustang recently 😂😂 must be getting old or something
Try a buzz stop. It puts a sharper break angle on the bridge and eliminates the ringing on the trem. I put one on my Jay Mascis jazzmaster and it solved the problem and actually made the guitar sound better. Inexpensive part.
The Guitar Manifesto definitely worth a shot. I think a shim will help a little but to put more downward pressure on the saddles it may not completely get the job done. I typically shim most Fender necks so I’m not sure a simple shim will be enough.
Yeah my 70s cv Squier bridge moves around while playing and I have to put it in place after 20 mins of playing otherwise it distorts the sound which is a no no I'll try to tape and see how that works I've got a 9 string set rn and wanted to go down to 8 but that seems like a pretty bad idea after seeing this vid
Had my very cheap Squire Vintage Modified Series Jazzmaster routed and the StewMac Golden Age Bridge & Tremolo installed. Changed the Bridge like you did, but found the string spread was different.
Hey Rob, sorry about the bummed high E! I'd really enjoy a Cobain jag series though. I'd probably just cut the tortoise shell pick guard cuz that's what his had. It's up to you, but I would really love to see a Cobain Jag series!
Yeah I need to change the springs on the bridge, I'm gonna have a think about what I want to do with the Jag the KC mod could easily turn into an expensive money pit
Just got one of these, it seemed fine, then suddenly my top E was unplayable, the bridge seems to have dropped on one side by 3-5 mm is it easy to sort out?
These things really are fussy. i just got some 11's-- Beefy Slinky strings. It definitely made the strings sit down on that bridge a little better, but they still move out of place, if i get too aggressive. Next thing you know you're jamming out and suddenly you get clunky buzzy notes. You really need a light strumming hand in general it would seem to keep these right. And forget about any down tuning on the E. That makes my low E buzz like crazy! A little stressful, but man they're just so pretty. ;D My bridge doesn't rock around like yours did so I don't need the tape, but the little individual smaller pieces move like crazy on it and make the strings come out of place. It is a Vmj. Taking it to a shop this weekend and hoping there is a magician there who can cast a spell on it to make it perfect without costing me an arm and a leg.
looks really cool with the humbucker pearloid. You could try chrome covered pickups to give it a bit of a flair. or make the neck chrome, and the bridge black. I have that way on my CV Tele Custom
Nice, I love "mods" (or fixes) that don't involve buying a $250 part (cough-cough mastery bridge). Question: with the electrical tape wrapped around the bridge posts, is it still grounded? Or are the strings grounded by way of the vibrato tailpiece? Thanks.
I’ve been watching all your videos about jaguars and squire jags as well, and I was wondering; do you think it would be a good idea if I bought the sunburst squire jag and replaced the pick ups with dimarzio distortion ones to make it like the kurt cobain jag. I really want the kurt jag but it’s way too expensive and I thought the squire with different pick ups would be a good idea, do you think it would be ? And do you think it would sound like kurts clean tone because I have no idea
I just ordered one. Should be here in a few days. I may look into spending a little time and money on that bridge. I really like the looks and it doesn't sound bad for the price.....i couldn't pass it up. Lol
i know this isn't really relevant but i really hate the bass iv bridge on the squier it doesn't intonate and the intonation screws stick out . they sell them with mastery bridges but mines got the old style bridge . i bloody hate it!
You could get a Tune o matic which would stop the saddles from wiggling. It would also look more like the Cobain version. The trem on the classic player jag is closer to the bridge, but I think they only do it on that guitar. Which size of Allan key do you need to remove the stock black knobs on the jag? I looked for a while in my dads toolbox and couldn't find one.
I got one in green and it felt like a toy with the 9’s on so I switched to 10’s which helped a bit but still felt too loose and rattly in the bridge and trem. A set of 12’s sorted mine. The nut will need dressing but mine is a keeper now. Absolutely love it.
Thanks for your video Sir. If you have a few seconds. I have just got one of the Jazz last week, partly on the basis of your other video. To solve issues I went the buzz stop + 250 pot route. Now it seems to have lost in mojo but "plays" nice, strings don't jump out of the bridge etc. Vibe is not the same. I wonder if it is buzz stop and/or the 250 pot. Have you tried to modify the pots?
Hmm, maybe take a string and tie it around the bridge tight so that the bridge has pressure squeezing it together. That would prevent the high E string saddle from flopping around like that. Pretty much any way you can clamp the bridge would do the trick, though it would not be a pretty fix. I could be completely wrong about it, but that seems as if it would fix the first issue. The second issue being that strange sound, you seem to be on top of it with smoothing out the nut like that so I don't think I have any better ideas on how to fix that issue. Though it might help if you can move the whole back end of the bridge forward a bit, that would increase the break angle and hopefully put more pressure the strings put on the intonation adjuster thingy lol... Once again, I could be really really wrong, but those are the only real thoughts I could come up with to address the two issues you have with at home fixes and not having to order parts lol. -lfaf
Great video. Very informative. I am thinking about a Jaguar or maybe a Yamaha Pacifica ( Yamaha is my favorite brand for low-cost acoustic guitars) and I was wondering if there was anything else I could find out about the Jaguar Classic Vibe that might makemy decision a little easier. I really don´t need the tremolo bar and would prefer that the guitar stay in tune as much as possible. Does anybody know if the Squier Classic Vibe Jaguar has the blocking option built in like other models of Jaguars?
As much as you deal with these i thought you would have done a neck shim and raise the bridge. I string 10's on mine and I have the original bridge (vintage modified) and it plays/intonates/sounds great. Keep it coming with the offset content!
Try using 11 gauge strings. Jaguars are short scale, that bridge kinda sucks, and the tension from the tremolo to the bridge is not much (at least with the original design, I don't know if these new classic vibes models have the tremolo closer to the headstock like the new Player series, that solves the tension issue). If the thicker string don't work, change the bridge for a TOM or a staytrem, or maybe just the saddles, graphtech has self-lubricating saddles for jaguars and jazzmasters.
I always like using 10s on Jags always have done, I'm thinking of shimming the neck to increase the break angle also get them springs changed on the bridge saddles.
I have a Staytrem tremolo and StewMac roller bridge on my MIM Jag and they, along with a roller string tree, make all the difference. I think everyone should know going in that you’re going to have to do some upgrades or mods on a Jag bridge.
Glad you enjoyed it , I've done weekly live streams before they soon turn stale and the views drop each week. I like to just pop up with the odd live show
@@theguitarmanifesto Thanks for replying! Would you say that the buzzing issue is fixed now they've changed the bridge? Really want to buy one but I'm a student so definitely can't afford any modifications
Raising the action will help with sustain/buzz. Those guitars shine with heavier strings/higher action. you shouldn't have to go to high, but its night and day comparing these offsets to my Strats. Doesn't mean they are worse. Just different. That said, I preferer and play my offset Fenders 90% of the time.
I always use 10s on jags, it's not buzzing its the lack of tension that's the problem. Even with 11 or 12s on this problem will still be apparent, the springs on the bridge are way too weak.
@@theguitarmanifesto report back after you swap the springs please. So you think the saddle piece is too loose cuz of the spring?? Maybe try swapping out the saddle as well as the springs? idk..
I may be wrong but they seem way too loose, also a shim in the neck will help. I do have another bridge I could stick on. People on a budget who have saved up for one of these shouldn't be expected to pay over £65 for a better bridge.
@@theguitarmanifesto I actually just broke that string playing it tonight. I'll put a new one on it tomorrow. It was the original strings that came on it, but I've only had it a month
@@theguitarmanifesto thank I will do that as soon as I get off work. I love your channel. I'd love to be able to do what you do. I just don't have the experience that you do, but I'm learning
I enjoy your videos. One question: where are the pickguards from? I got a vm jaguar and a pickguard from Custom world Guitar Parts. It don‘t fit properly.
Are all these problems to be expected when spending $400 for a guitar? Is there quality control at this price? Obviously not. I all ways wonder what guitar manufacturers are thinking after they produce a guitar and they know the guitar has fret buzz, uneven frets, sharp frets, rough fretboard nut etc. and they say "screw it, release it any way."
It's more to do with the placement of the vibrato, if it was placed a little further back or the break angle was increased it would have been fine. Apart from that over the 100s of squiers I've owned QC is always too notch
@@theguitarmanifesto I wish my guitar store carried them, the only jag around here that has a regular c neck, not modern c, is a mij jag special editon hh.
@@theguitarmanifesto Thank you.....I want a jag. I need a short scale that is NOT modern C, I need it thicker. I don't do modifications....as far as I can tell the choce the 70s squire, the Marr Jaguar, the mij special edition hh or the classic player special....any thoughts?
I own a Vintage Modified Jag, I just now realized they switched the bridge on these. So is this a Squier-made 9.5" Mustang bridge? Mastery bridges are great, but I went with the StayTrem as it was closer to a stock bridge in construction. It's pre-radiused much like this new mustang one, but using 11-52 (EXL-116) strings and no neck shims and it's played great for me! StayTrem quit shipping internationally so I'm glad I got mine when I did, but if you live in the UK it looks like you can still order one. staytrem.com/
@@theguitarmanifesto I have just recently to the point to where they just sent me 10 high E string replacements and 3 set of 10's after I proved I made the purchases....all snapping from ball as if was a bad batch
@@theguitarmanifesto no not at all.....I have 13 guitars ...and I snapped 3 in 1 hour on different guitars just normal play so I was rather irritated .....but all the sets was purchased at the same time...there was no excuse for it other than bad batch
It just needs a good setup. Check the neck relief. Raise the bridge saddles so they conform to the shape of the neck. Some people shim the neck to get a higher break angle too.
Yeah I totally agree they are awesome bridges and would make a huge difference. For those on a budget I want to find a cheap fix. My next step will be shimming the neck to increase the break angle also try and fit some stronger springs, hopefully this will help a lot.
The bridge design has always been a fail Fender dont like changing much.Best option would be find a roller bridge replace inserts and a neck shim is essential for a better break angle behind the bridge to reduce pinging also wrapping a shoe lace or a piece of foam on the strings behind the bridge will stop some pinging.
The Guitar Manifesto I was sold on getting one of these but it seems you’d have to spend a further £200 getting it to something decent. New machine heads, bridge etc. I might as well save up more and get something else.
If you want to know how to get the best from any Fender offset take a look at this Premier Guitar magazine article . The info given is straightforward, bullshit free and accurate and certainly helped me to improve the set up on my Jag without any great mystery being involved, the trem now works as Mr Fender intended, I have a comfortable action using 11s and it keeps tune well. www.premierguitar.com/articles/25516-diy-how-to-set-up-jazzmasters-jaguars
@@theguitarmanifesto I think the reason people have problems with offsets is that they go in with same methods they'd take to a Strat or Tele and then blame the guitar when it doesn't work out. Once you take the time to sort out what you're doing it's no more difficult to set up a Jag than a Strat, it just needs a different approach.
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Shim the neck back and raise the bridge. You have to set short scale fenders up like arched top guitars to get a better break angle over the bridge. If you've ever played a vintage fender offset they all have their necks angled back like a gibson
Ah yeah I totally agree I didn't think at the time, will do this on my next video hopefully that should cure the problem 🎸👌
Also the Jag scale is so short, you might think of 11s
@@narichey1981 no I always use 10s on Jags have done for 25 years
The Guitar Manifesto Have you ever tried 11's on a jag? I use 10 gauge too but I'm just wondering what the differences would be. I guess the 10s have more slack.
@@narichey1981 I agree! As a guitar gets shorter it requires more string tension: shorter scale = higher string gauge.
Not only will the tremolo and bridge float MUCH nicer, but you'll have normal slack in your playing and no buzz at all!
I received my CV70's Jaguar Surf Green a few days ago.
I swapped the bridge for a Tune O Matic with rollers, wedged the neck, fret polishing and cleaning (a lot of cleaning) and fretboard hydration ... maybe too much work for a new guitar, the electronics just work fine, the Pickups sound great to my ears and the tuners are correct. It is now one of my favorite guitars.
Greetings 💪💪🎸🎸👍👍
Can you share a link for that Tune O Matic bridge please? I dont know which one to choose :( Thank you
Put a shim in the neck pocket and use heavy strings. That's what I've learned from setting up a VM Jazzmaster and several Mustangs and that's also how the original Jags came from the Fender factory in the early 60's. If the saddles move around because the springs are not strong enough you could try some Loctite. This usually works very well.
soulagent79 super glue is good if you have a buzzy brass nut ☺
Got one for a Jazzmaster. The B string 'drum' makes a slapping sound when you play with fingers. That's corrected by putting a thin piece of plastic between the B snd E 'drums'
The big mistake is using strings smaller than 11's on a Jaguar. This guitar wasn't designed to be strung with super slinkys. If set up properly with the correct strings, everything works just as Leo designed it to.
I put a small shim on the neck to increased the break angle this solved the problem, now plays perfectly with 10s
If I remember right, they shipped with 12s in the 60s. They can be set up with 10s if you're careful though!
Why does Fender sell Jaguars with 9' s if Leo wanted 11"s?
Should be 10s minimum
@@theguitarmanifesto I'm having the same problem... so do you mean you removed the neck and put a shim underneath neck base?
Also, I recall reading that these guitars do better with heavier gauge strings, like 11's. Maybe that cures the bridge saddle issues with the additional tension?
A neck shim does that job I like using 10s on a jaguar
For having more tension and angle on bridge there is a thing called "buzzstop". You can try them but a friend of mine said that when you use buzzstop the trem doesnt come back to it's normal position. I haven't tried them.
You lose the chine from the strings behind the bridge, kinda what gives the Jaguar it's iconic jangle sound
Thanks for the interesting video. I just got the same CV 70's Jaguar a few days ago. Fortunately, I haven't had any problems with it. after watching this video the first time, I went and ordered some chrome telecaster knobs. I'm also going to take off those 9's ad put some 10's on it. Some reviewers insists you put 11's on this guitar but my old, small hands just can't handle 11's.
10s will be just fine ignore the hipsters 😂
The chrome knobs will look awesome 🎸👌😮
If you shim the neck and raise the bridge, you’ll increase the break angle and the downward tension on the bridge.
sadly through the years, i've had troubles with anything stock on a guitar that cost 500 and less. but replacement parts thankfully even today aren't SUPER expensive
It can soon turn into an expensive guitar when stuff needs replacing
pleased to see they're providing a proper 3 ply tortoise now, (on the old model it just looked like burnt/melted cheese) I know it's only a small thing but it used to mean extra money just so the pickguard looked ok.
One of the better improvements
Instead of plastic tape, you can also use Copper or aluminum tape. I find this adds a bit to the overall sustain. I prefer the copper tape. This also works much better with copper tape on the old MIJ Jag's and Jm's that are grounded on the bridge instead of at the trem plate. Another trick I use a lot on these guitars is replacing the thimbles that go in the body with Tune- o- matic thimbles, remove the feet of the fender/squier bridge and drill a hole in them so you get a kind of TOM/Jag-Jm hybrid bridge. Requires some work, but It makes the bridge more stabile.
I got my tuning machines in yesterday so I'm gonna take my Jag apart today and try and figure out what's going on with the wiring.
Ah nice get them bad boys on, hopefully you figure out what's going on
Hi James, what tuning machines did you get for your Jaguar? I'm looking to upgrade mine but finding something that will work without any drilling/permanent mods is difficult.
@@protochachi I just got some vintage tuners. I really love vintage tuners. I wasn't trying to upgrade. I was just trying to fix a bent one. I actually don't even have it anymore. I sold it so i could buy a couple of other guitars and some records haha.
@@jay_thedog_man5169 thanks James! Appreciate the info!
Once you have the intonation and string height set to preference apparently the bridge rattle can be remedied by dropping some clear nail polish into the bridge screws/springs. Probably a safer option than Loctite superglue method as you can always take off the varnish with nail polish remover.
Personally I wouldn't go with that option, I'm going to shim the neck to increase the break angle also try and replace the springs with some more heavy duty ones
The Guitar Manifesto good luck hope it works out for you 👍
Hi. Did you ever get to the bottom of what was causing the weird “zingy/ringing” noise on the high E?
I’ve got a classic vibe Jaguar and I’m getting the exact same noise out of the upgraded Staytrem bridge I’ve put in there.
Thanks and great video 👍🏼
I had a similar problem with a replacement bridge on a VM Jazzmaster I had a few years ago. I finally wrapped some fine wire in a loop around the threads from low E to high E... effectively fusing the saddles together. You could hardly see it and it worked a treat. :)
That's one way of doing it 🎸👌
Did the wrap fix the high E buzz?
Hi: I didnt have that problem... I was referring to the unwanted movement of the saddle.... but..... a buzz just might be caused by the loosness in that area and vibration? worth a shot. :) @@hossak88
There is a roller assembly available on you tube,and other places im sure,that screws to the trem plate,and increases bridge pressure to never slip again. For about 15.00 its as easy as 2 screws
Ah yes the tone killer
mint green is nice
ive had mine for week , im still teaking it , the bridge is just weird , two posts balanced in thimbles ? the trem is noisy , and it will not stay in tune , ive shimmed it and set the neck relief, raised the bridge and put heavier gague strings on it , iv also spray painted the body in black matte and burnt the chrome plates to bring out the copper , it looks cool as but it still not right
Got mine last Saturday . First thing I recognised was a crooked pickup screw in the bridge pickup . But the worst thing is the bridge is damaged , one foot fell off !!! What aftermarket bridge would fit in there , as it is a 9,5 radius on the frettboard and all aftermarket bridges are 7,5 radius !!
Can you send it back? The options are quite thin unless you buy a mastery bridge or fit a tuneomatic bridge
The Guitar Manifesto They offered me the opinion to send it back , but I won‘t let it go . Ordered a Fender Mustang bridge for 9,5 radius from a seller in the US . A bit of an hassle as I‘m I Germany , but I guess it will be fine ! Thanks for your kind reply , peace out ✌️
The seller is ‚ guitaraudio ‚ from the US , $21,78 . 9,5 radius for mustang , jag and jazzmaster , from Fender which is great 👍
Johnny Marr says to use 11s power slinky strings with your Jaguar so that's good enough for me.My Blacktop p90 version doesn't have a trem so no worries about wobbly bridge ,it's got a solid tune-a-matic bridge but looking into whether a roller bridge would drop straight in as thinking about Duesenberg Les Trem
I was thinking to get one of these. I went to the local GC to demo it. I liked it a lot and enjoyed the tonal variety. I did not care for the glossy neck (I'm so used to the satin or unfinished necks that it's hard to go back to these). Oddly, I had serious issues with the high E string on their stock model. It got worse the more I played it. It sounded like it was fretting out from the 12th fret on, and even just playing the open string. Seeing the same issue here makes me not want to get one. I was hoping it was a bum Squier...but they might all be problematic.
The neck can be easily sanded down for a satin finish, sound like it needs setting up, also putting a higher gauge string and neck shim in helps out a lot
Meat this guitar is a nightmare 😹! It's too much work and I like the Bullet mustang has no work needed stock!
I'm not going to buy one after playing it!
To be honest it was a pretty simple fix
@@theguitarmanifesto The Jaguar and Jazz master guys complain about the Fender!
Thanks for the tip about the tape around the bridge, I was going mental trying to work out why it was going out of tune all the time! I've also had to shim the neck on my CV Jag to get the action where I want it + file the fret ends a bit so they're not sharp. But after all that it's a really nice guitar and I'm loving it, thanks for putting these vids out mate.
Man I love this one. I need to try some type of offset ...the amount of tones these offer. Insane. Awesome video brother.
Mate yes you do
I have one and it's the best. No issues with the Squier jaguar bridge. Errorless!
You're welcome
Thanks for this video. I thought I really wanted a Jaguar but after watching all the necessary bridge mods and/or bridge replacement plus possibly having to shim the neck no thanks. My old MIA and MIK Fender strats didn't need all those mods; I even bought a cheapo $97.00 Chinese import project guitar and straight out of the box it only needed a little intonation adjustment to play and sound good. Fender should be ashamed.
It's a rubbish setup that's for sure
Saddles are the wrong spacing for the neck and its annoying! why arent they 52mm spaced??
If I may Sir, I would suggest that you need to increase the break angle, the way to do this is to get a 1* degree neck shim and kick the back of the neck up so you can raise the bridge up.
Yep done 2 years ago
I bought the Squier Jazzmaster classic vibe 60's with same bridge. After 2 hours of playing the bridge dropped where the strings were hitting the frets from the vibration of playing. They are fussy little buggers. I should have known better owning other Jaguars/Mustangs. Locktight/nail polish on the bridge height screws to keep them from buzzing/dropping. I also have Jazzmaster w/ Adjusto-Matic bridge with incredibly low action and no buzz. I will upgrade my others to Adjusto-matics, eventually. I like the idea of the Mastery bridge, but they are really expensive, and I get great results from the Adjusto-Matic.
My Jazzmaster has a Tuneomatic bridge no problems with that apart from the radius not matching the fingerboard. The stock vintage bridges should be left in the 60s 😂
I read about these problems before buying and did get buzzing after about 20 minutes of play, so I adjusted the bridge to my desired height then dipped it in hot wax, wiped it clean and have had no more problems with this vm jag (even still using origenal strings!)
yeah I get what you're saying I think the problem with this one is a lack of tension on the strings
Shim the neck (american series come this way from the factory) it will change the neck angle enough that you'll have to raise the bridge to get normal string height giving you a sharper break angle over the bridge.
Yeah thanks buddy I kinda figured this out after the video 😂 I have shimmed them before will be doing a follow up video soon
The Guitar Manifesto lol sorry I didn't see the other 5 comment instructing you to shim it 😂
It's cool 😂😂 I actually don't know why I didn't think of it while I was making the video, I even shimmed the neck on a Mustang recently 😂😂 must be getting old or something
Try a buzz stop. It puts a sharper break angle on the bridge and eliminates the ringing on the trem. I put one on my Jay Mascis jazzmaster and it solved the problem and actually made the guitar sound better. Inexpensive part.
Yeah that's another option right there 👌
That's an excellent option! My CME LE Jazzmaster came with the trem closer to the bridge for a similar effect.
As someone pointed out earlier a cheaper solution could be to shim the neck raising the bridge and increasing the break angle.
The Guitar Manifesto definitely worth a shot. I think a shim will help a little but to put more downward pressure on the saddles it may not completely get the job done. I typically shim most Fender necks so I’m not sure a simple shim will be enough.
I've done a few myself worth a shot as it's free, I'll keep y'all updated
Yeah my 70s cv Squier bridge moves around while playing and I have to put it in place after 20 mins of playing otherwise it distorts the sound which is a no no I'll try to tape and see how that works I've got a 9 string set rn and wanted to go down to 8 but that seems like a pretty bad idea after seeing this vid
Yes 8s will be very problematic, a neck shim does help to increase tension
Had my very cheap Squire Vintage Modified Series Jazzmaster routed and the StewMac Golden Age Bridge & Tremolo installed. Changed the Bridge like you did, but found the string spread was different.
Hey Rob, sorry about the bummed high E! I'd really enjoy a Cobain jag series though. I'd probably just cut the tortoise shell pick guard cuz that's what his had. It's up to you, but I would really love to see a Cobain Jag series!
Yeah I need to change the springs on the bridge, I'm gonna have a think about what I want to do with the Jag the KC mod could easily turn into an expensive money pit
if you're replacing the pots are you putting 1 megs back in? i thought the usual rule for single coils was 250k
Jaguars and jazzmasters use 1k pots for extra brightness
Just got one of these, it seemed fine, then suddenly my top E was unplayable, the bridge seems to have dropped on one side by 3-5 mm is it easy to sort out?
These things really are fussy. i just got some 11's-- Beefy Slinky strings. It definitely made the strings sit down on that bridge a little better, but they still move out of place, if i get too aggressive. Next thing you know you're jamming out and suddenly you get clunky buzzy notes. You really need a light strumming hand in general it would seem to keep these right. And forget about any down tuning on the E. That makes my low E buzz like crazy! A little stressful, but man they're just so pretty. ;D My bridge doesn't rock around like yours did so I don't need the tape, but the little individual smaller pieces move like crazy on it and make the strings come out of place. It is a Vmj. Taking it to a shop this weekend and hoping there is a magician there who can cast a spell on it to make it perfect without costing me an arm and a leg.
looks really cool with the humbucker pearloid. You could try chrome covered pickups to give it a bit of a flair. or make the neck chrome, and the bridge black. I have that way on my CV Tele Custom
Ooh yeah that would look really cool, I think that would pop on a Candy Apple Red Jag
I have the same guitar. Would you recommend changing the bridge and stock pick ups?
The pickups are fine, the bridge just needs a few tweaks like heavier gauge strings and a slight neck shim
A tiny bit of lock-tite should help your bridge stay in place!
Needs a bit more than that bud
Nice, I love "mods" (or fixes) that don't involve buying a $250 part (cough-cough mastery bridge). Question: with the electrical tape wrapped around the bridge posts, is it still grounded? Or are the strings grounded by way of the vibrato tailpiece? Thanks.
I’ve been watching all your videos about jaguars and squire jags as well, and I was wondering; do you think it would be a good idea if I bought the sunburst squire jag and replaced the pick ups with dimarzio distortion ones to make it like the kurt cobain jag. I really want the kurt jag but it’s way too expensive and I thought the squire with different pick ups would be a good idea, do you think it would be ? And do you think it would sound like kurts clean tone because I have no idea
Same lol
I just ordered one. Should be here in a few days. I may look into spending a little time and money on that bridge. I really like the looks and it doesn't sound bad for the price.....i couldn't pass it up. Lol
Oh it's a fine guitar just needs a few tweaks
I wrapped electric tape around the Bridge posts. I'm thinking about doing some nut work as well. Not bad for right out of the box though.
@@FlaviusPowerbottomIII give the nut slots a fine file down 👌
Thanks for taking the time to post these videos; instructive and encouraging to a beginner like myself.
No worries at all I'm glad they're helping you out 🎸👌
i know this isn't really relevant but i really hate the bass iv bridge on the squier it doesn't intonate and the intonation screws stick out . they sell them with mastery bridges but mines got the old style bridge . i bloody hate it!
They sure are problematic
You could get a Tune o matic which would stop the saddles from wiggling. It would also look more like the Cobain version. The trem on the classic player jag is closer to the bridge, but I think they only do it on that guitar. Which size of Allan key do you need to remove the stock black knobs on the jag? I looked for a while in my dads toolbox and couldn't find one.
I'm not a fan of tuneomatic bridges as I prefer the matching radius to the fingerboard, also would need a big shim. Not sure of the size sorry
The Guitar Manifesto Thanks anyway! You can by tune o matins for 9.5 inch radius I think but the shim would be a big issue.
@@wastewoodrockers5526 again the large shim is a no for me
Because the Tune-o-matic bridge sits a lot higher, you need to raise the neck or the action will be too high
It's an easy fix I made a video fitting one on a jaguar
I know this is an old video, but would changing the bridge with a genuine fender mustang bridge work?
No neck shim helped a lot
The Guitar Manifesto in just thinking of buying one and modding it to have a neck hotrail and a better bridge and tuners. Thanks for the help
I got one in green and it felt like a toy with the 9’s on so I switched to 10’s which helped a bit but still felt too loose and rattly in the bridge and trem. A set of 12’s sorted mine. The nut will need dressing but mine is a keeper now. Absolutely love it.
I get what you're saying I prefer using 10's on a Jag, I just want to find a fix for the stock bridge
Thanks for your video Sir. If you have a few seconds. I have just got one of the Jazz last week, partly on the basis of your other video. To solve issues I went the buzz stop + 250 pot route. Now it seems to have lost in mojo but "plays" nice, strings don't jump out of the bridge etc. Vibe is not the same. I wonder if it is buzz stop and/or the 250 pot. Have you tried to modify the pots?
Buzz stops are horrible things take away the jangle sound. Totally wrong pot too
Hmm, maybe take a string and tie it around the bridge tight so that the bridge has pressure squeezing it together. That would prevent the high E string saddle from flopping around like that. Pretty much any way you can clamp the bridge would do the trick, though it would not be a pretty fix. I could be completely wrong about it, but that seems as if it would fix the first issue.
The second issue being that strange sound, you seem to be on top of it with smoothing out the nut like that so I don't think I have any better ideas on how to fix that issue. Though it might help if you can move the whole back end of the bridge forward a bit, that would increase the break angle and hopefully put more pressure the strings put on the intonation adjuster thingy lol... Once again, I could be really really wrong, but those are the only real thoughts I could come up with to address the two issues you have with at home fixes and not having to order parts lol.
-lfaf
Great video. Very informative. I am thinking about a Jaguar or maybe a Yamaha Pacifica ( Yamaha is my favorite brand for low-cost acoustic guitars) and I was wondering if there was anything else I could find out about the Jaguar Classic Vibe that might makemy decision a little easier. I really don´t need the tremolo bar and would prefer that the guitar stay in tune as much as possible. Does anybody know if the Squier Classic Vibe Jaguar has the blocking option built in like other models of Jaguars?
Mint green!!!
Looks awesome :)
As much as you deal with these i thought you would have done a neck shim and raise the bridge. I string 10's on mine and I have the original bridge (vintage modified) and it plays/intonates/sounds great. Keep it coming with the offset content!
I've always used 10s and always will on 24 scale, neck shim did fix the issue this video is quite old now
what's the string spacing on this? anything above 52mm e.g. the usual 55mm tends to have the high e hang off the fretboard ? at least on the VM models
All this after paying £350 for squier? is it just your guitar or are all these squier jags cv 70s are like this?
Get some heavier gauge strings should help
There is a lot of complaining everywhere ... i had also problems, after one hour of playing the eletronics stopped working.
hope you will modify it exactly to Cobain Jag
This video is about 3 years old dude that guitar is long gone
Try using 11 gauge strings. Jaguars are short scale, that bridge kinda sucks, and the tension from the tremolo to the bridge is not much (at least with the original design, I don't know if these new classic vibes models have the tremolo closer to the headstock like the new Player series, that solves the tension issue). If the thicker string don't work, change the bridge for a TOM or a staytrem, or maybe just the saddles, graphtech has self-lubricating saddles for jaguars and jazzmasters.
I always like using 10s on Jags always have done, I'm thinking of shimming the neck to increase the break angle also get them springs changed on the bridge saddles.
Try a staytrem bridge ..also make sure you get the right radius for this guitar.
It's quite an expensive fix, I want to find a cheap alternative so you can use the stock bridge.
I have a Staytrem tremolo and StewMac roller bridge on my MIM Jag and they, along with a roller string tree, make all the difference. I think everyone should know going in that you’re going to have to do some upgrades or mods on a Jag bridge.
Mastery Bridge works really well. No problems with the radius.
Staytrem makes a good product but it changed the tone and feel of the guitar. Ymmv
Bought a StayTrem Bridge and Tremolo for my Squier VM Jag. Now it always stays in tune, no string popping, and fixed radius. Love it!
Put a poll on the community tab on what to do with the jag
I'm having a think what to do with it at the moment when I come up with some ideas I'll put a poll up 🎸🤘
Good video Rob Great guitar your channel has really turned me On to the offset Fender,s!! Rock On Rob☮️🎸🤘
Thanks Tim awesome I've got you hooked on the offsets they kick ass 👌🎸
I just got one and this isn't an issue, possibly they fixed it?
Probably down to quality control
I just got one and it has the exact same problems
Enjoyed the livestream last night! Make livestreams like a weekly thing. It's fun to just chat about guitars and music.
Glad you enjoyed it , I've done weekly live streams before they soon turn stale and the views drop each week.
I like to just pop up with the odd live show
were did you buy the pickguards?
I've had them knocking about in my stash for a while
@@theguitarmanifesto could you recommend any placed to get them? that would help alot especially for this jaguar
I like Vanson pickguards but not bought one for a jaguar
Interesting about that bridge. I was thinking about getting one of these but I might wait a bit. Thanks for showing us this!
They still haven't solved the problem with the Jag and Jazzmaster bridges
@@theguitarmanifesto I thought the new 2019 Jag had a Mustang bridge?
Yep that's what you're looking at
@@theguitarmanifesto Thanks for replying!
Would you say that the buzzing issue is fixed now they've changed the bridge?
Really want to buy one but I'm a student so definitely can't afford any modifications
Listen to what I'm saying in this video I explain the faults with the new bridge
Que guitarra es la negra que tenees detras?
It's a telemaster I modified myself, I made a few videos on it
You're the best thank you I just picked one up
Raising the action will help with sustain/buzz. Those guitars shine with heavier strings/higher action. you shouldn't have to go to high, but its night and day comparing these offsets to my Strats. Doesn't mean they are worse. Just different. That said, I preferer and play my offset Fenders 90% of the time.
I always use 10s on jags, it's not buzzing its the lack of tension that's the problem. Even with 11 or 12s on this problem will still be apparent, the springs on the bridge are way too weak.
@@theguitarmanifesto report back after you swap the springs please. So you think the saddle piece is too loose cuz of the spring?? Maybe try swapping out the saddle as well as the springs? idk..
I may be wrong but they seem way too loose, also a shim in the neck will help. I do have another bridge I could stick on. People on a budget who have saved up for one of these shouldn't be expected to pay over £65 for a better bridge.
So is the bridge actually 9.5" radius? Sorry if that's mentioned in the video.
Yes it is
Thanks! Within the last 2 months, some new Mustang bridges popped up on Reverb, but with 7.25" radius.
@@payne0410 yeah they're for the old style fender Mustangs
What are you using to file the nut? I know there are files for that specific job but they are bloody expensive.
It was a nut file from a cheap set I got on eBay a while back
Similar to this
rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F223480339571
My Cobain Jaguar sounds exactly the same on the e string. Any advice on what to do?
How high is the action?
@@theguitarmanifesto almost as low as it will go
@@theguitarmanifesto I actually just broke that string playing it tonight. I'll put a new one on it tomorrow. It was the original strings that came on it, but I've only had it a month
Needs to set correctly or you will have issues you're looking around 1.25mm action on the high e 1.50 on the low e side
@@theguitarmanifesto thank I will do that as soon as I get off work. I love your channel. I'd love to be able to do what you do. I just don't have the experience that you do, but I'm learning
Nice job man
Thank you
I say take a file and create a deep groove in each saddle. The bridge has to go anyhow...nothing ventured, nothing gained...nothing to lose.
Still won't sort the issue with lack of string tension. Needed a neck shim
I enjoy your videos. One question: where are the pickguards from? I got a vm jaguar and a pickguard from Custom world Guitar Parts. It don‘t fit properly.
Glad you enjoy the videos, I usually get Vanson pickguards from eBay always a great fit
Thanks a lot! Keep that work!
No worries at all :)
Are all these problems to be expected when spending $400 for a guitar? Is there quality control at this price? Obviously not. I all ways wonder what guitar manufacturers are thinking after they produce a guitar and they know the guitar has fret buzz, uneven frets, sharp frets, rough fretboard nut etc. and they say "screw it, release it any way."
It's more to do with the placement of the vibrato, if it was placed a little further back or the break angle was increased it would have been fine.
Apart from that over the 100s of squiers I've owned QC is always too notch
@@theguitarmanifesto I wish my guitar store carried them, the only jag around here that has a regular c neck, not modern c, is a mij jag special editon hh.
@@theguitarmanifesto So would you recommend this guitar?
It's still a great guitar just have to go with the neck that's on it, My main gripe is the narrow tall frets I just don't like them personally.
@@theguitarmanifesto Thank you.....I want a jag. I need a short scale that is NOT modern C, I need it thicker. I don't do modifications....as far as I can tell the choce the 70s squire, the Marr Jaguar, the mij special edition hh or the classic player special....any thoughts?
Personally I think you should keep the tortoise pickguard but do whatever you want man, it's your guitar!
The tort does look awesome on the Jag🎸👌
I own a Vintage Modified Jag, I just now realized they switched the bridge on these. So is this a Squier-made 9.5" Mustang bridge? Mastery bridges are great, but I went with the StayTrem as it was closer to a stock bridge in construction. It's pre-radiused much like this new mustang one, but using 11-52 (EXL-116) strings and no neck shims and it's played great for me! StayTrem quit shipping internationally so I'm glad I got mine when I did, but if you live in the UK it looks like you can still order one. staytrem.com/
Yep it's the new Mustang bridge with the correct radius for the neck, no more having to spend a fortune on after market bridges
I’m surprised to see the routing is two single coils only
Yeah it's quite common on the VM and CV Squiers
Diaddarios are junk also....high E always snaps from ball at bridge
I can honestly say I never snapped a Diaddario string
@@theguitarmanifesto I have just recently to the point to where they just sent me 10 high E string replacements and 3 set of 10's after I proved I made the purchases....all snapping from ball as if was a bad batch
Dang you have the issue on the same guitar?
@@theguitarmanifesto no not at all.....I have 13 guitars ...and I snapped 3 in 1 hour on different guitars just normal play so I was rather irritated .....but all the sets was purchased at the same time...there was no excuse for it other than bad batch
Just wondering if you have a sharp saddle or something, I've fitted 100s of Diaddario strings always been super reliable
I just barely missed the live stream premier. But that bottom E is very bothersome.
It's a pain in the ass for sure
Maybe put abit of super glue against the bridge posts lock them together?.??
Just bought this yesterday and im getting buzzing in like 4 strings
It just needs a good setup. Check the neck relief. Raise the bridge saddles so they conform to the shape of the neck. Some people shim the neck to get a higher break angle too.
mastery bridge
Yeah this would help a lot but an expensive upgrade for those on a budget
@@theguitarmanifesto it's well worth it on the right guitar, string tree too.
Yeah I totally agree they are awesome bridges and would make a huge difference. For those on a budget I want to find a cheap fix. My next step will be shimming the neck to increase the break angle also try and fit some stronger springs, hopefully this will help a lot.
I think its a rule that if it a jaguar its bridge has a problom
The bridge design has always been a fail Fender dont like changing much.Best option would be find a roller bridge replace inserts and a neck shim is essential for a better break angle behind the bridge to reduce pinging also wrapping a shoe lace or a piece of foam on the strings behind the bridge will stop some pinging.
At the time I forgot about shimming the neck been a while since I've needed to do one on a Jag or Jazzmaster, will definitely be my next step 👌🎸
Think this needs a buzz stop?
Kills that jaguar jangle sound
The Guitar Manifesto ah gotcha, I’m new to jags and jazzmasters, I’ve wanted one for so long so it’s all kind of new to me haha
Yeah it's cool both my favourite guitars, the chime from the strings behind the bridge make that distinct jangle
Finally someone has the same problem as me
Fixed it with a shim in the neck 👌
The Guitar Manifesto What did you do to shim it?
@@Leonnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn I used a piece of credit card 😂 old school mods
The Guitar Manifesto Nice. Gonna try myself
@@theguitarmanifesto Stewmac sells quality ones
0:42 you know you're right? lol
Love that chime 😂👌
Could turn it into a sitar ☺
@@malcolmhardwick4258 good shout 🎸👌
Stay trem bridge £65 game changer!
Yeah I'm not into spending £65 on a bridge I'm a tight arse 😂
@@theguitarmanifesto yeah I know what you mean but they are great! Totally transform the guitar!
Decent chunk of metal 😂👌
This has put me right off this guitar. What a massive hassle. Do the more expensive jags / jazz masters have these issues?
It's a pain I know, generally all Jags & jazzmasters with the vintage style bridge have a few issues 😂
The Guitar Manifesto I was sold on getting one of these but it seems you’d have to spend a further £200 getting it to something decent. New machine heads, bridge etc. I might as well save up more and get something else.
To be honest the Deluxe Jazzmaster is my axe of choice out of the Squiers no bridge issues
If you want to know how to get the best from any Fender offset take a look at this Premier Guitar magazine article . The info given is straightforward, bullshit free and accurate and certainly helped me to improve the set up on my Jag without any great mystery being involved, the trem now works as Mr Fender intended, I have a comfortable action using 11s and it keeps tune well.
www.premierguitar.com/articles/25516-diy-how-to-set-up-jazzmasters-jaguars
Thanks, I personally like using 10s on a Jaguar/ Mustang.
I overcame the issue with this bridge by shimming the neck
@@theguitarmanifesto I think the reason people have problems with offsets is that they go in with same methods they'd take to a Strat or Tele and then blame the guitar when it doesn't work out. Once you take the time to sort out what you're doing it's no more difficult to set up a Jag than a Strat, it just needs a different approach.
Totally agree they need a level of experience to setup correctly.
Glad I didn't buy one of those.. that would irritate me to no end.. I'm more of a tele guy anyway tho😁
It's a pain in the ass that's for sure 😂🎸
Dude ,you could put a set of hofner toaster pickups or a set of gretch filtertrons
Now filtertons I've been itching to install in a guitar for a while, good shout 😂🎸🤘
Thanks for sharing all your work! The tortoise looks best, in my opinion...
Yeah I have to agree with the Tort guard, no worries at all 🎸👌
I had the same problem with my squier jaguar bridge, this buzz stop is the solution: www.thomann.de/de/allparts_tremolo_buzz_stop_chrome.htm
Unfortunately you lose the jaguar jangle with them tried and tested it many times myself
Umm...whammy?
what about it?
The big mistake you made was pronouncing Jaguar with a long U sound
😂😂😂😂
Send the crappy guitar back
I think its a rule that if it a jaguar its bridge has a problom