Description

Wa wa wee waaaaa- late 90s CIJ Fender Kurt Cobain Signature Jag-Stang, $1999!

The Fender Jag-Stang is a unique electric guitar designed by Kurt Cobain of Nirvana and manufactured by Fender. Introduced in the 1990s and crafted in Japan, the Jag-Stang combines elements of the Fender Jaguar and the Fender Mustang, resulting in a distinctive instrument with its own character and appeal. Known for its quirky design and versatile sound, the Jag-Stang has gained a cult following among fans of alternative rock and collectors.

Key Features

Body and Construction

  • Body Shape: The Jag-Stang features a unique offset body shape, combining elements of the Jaguar and Mustang for a distinctive look and feel.
  • Body Material: Typically made from basswood, which provides a balanced tone with good resonance.
  • Finish: Available in various finishes, including Sonic Blue and Fiesta Red, with a glossy polyurethane finish.

Neck

  • Neck Material: Maple neck known for its smooth playability and stability.
  • Fingerboard: Rosewood fingerboard, offering a warm tonal characteristic and a comfortable playing surface.
  • Neck Profile: Slim C-shaped profile, making it easy to play for extended periods.
  • Scale Length: 24 inches, similar to the Mustang, which contributes to a slightly shorter, more comfortable playing experience.
  • Frets: 22 medium jumbo frets for easy bending and comfortable playability.

Hardware

  • Bridge: Mustang-style bridge with dynamic vibrato tailpiece, offering smooth vibrato effects and stable tuning.
  • Tuners: Vintage-style tuners for reliable tuning stability and a classic look.
  • Pickguard: Pearloid or solid color pickguard, adding to the guitar’s distinctive aesthetic.

Electronics

  • Pickups:
    • Neck Pickup: Single-coil pickup for bright, articulate tones.
    • Bridge Pickup: Humbucker for fuller, more powerful sounds.
  • Controls: Simple control layout with one volume knob, one tone knob, and a three-way pickup selector switch.
  • Switches: On/off slider switches for each pickup, allowing for versatile combinations and unique sounds.

Sound Characteristics

  • Versatile Tone: Capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from bright and jangly to thick and powerful, making it suitable for various musical styles.
  • Distinctive Voice: Combines the punchy attack of single-coil pickups with the fuller sound of a humbucker, providing a unique tonal palette.
  • Alternative Rock Appeal: Known for its association with Kurt Cobain and its ability to deliver the raw, gritty tones favored in alternative rock and grunge music.

Applications

  • Live Performance: Ideal for live performances due to its distinctive sound and stage presence.
  • Studio Recording: Suitable for studio use, offering a range of tones that can be used for various recording applications.
  • Collectible: Highly regarded among collectors and fans of Kurt Cobain and Nirvana, making it a desirable addition to any collection.

Country of Manufacture

  • Japan: The Fender Jag-Stang from the 1990s was crafted in Japan, known for its high standards of quality and attention to detail.

Notable Features

  • Unique Design: Combines elements of the Fender Jaguar and Mustang for a distinctive look and feel.
  • Versatile Electronics: Features both single-coil and humbucker pickups with individual on/off switches for a wide range of tones.
  • Vintage-Style Hardware: Includes a Mustang-style bridge and vintage-style tuners for reliable performance and a classic aesthetic.
  • Comfortable Playability: Slim C-shaped neck profile and shorter scale length for easy playability.

Notable Users

  • Kurt Cobain (Nirvana): The Jag-Stang was designed by Kurt Cobain, and he used it during the later years of Nirvana. It is strongly associated with his legacy and sound.
  • Fans and Collectors: The Jag-Stang is popular among fans of Kurt Cobain and Nirvana, as well as collectors of unique and limited-run guitars.

The Fender Jag-Stang is a distinctive and versatile electric guitar that combines elements of the Jaguar and Mustang, resulting in a unique instrument with its own character. Crafted in Japan in the 1990s, the Jag-Stang offers a blend of vintage aesthetics, versatile electronics, and comfortable playability. Whether used for live performances, studio recordings, or as part of a collection, the Jag-Stang provides a unique tonal palette and a strong connection to the legacy of Kurt Cobain.