When the Fender Mustang first hit the market in 1964, it quickly became a hit, selling thousands and surpassing models like the Musicmaster and Duo-Sonic1. This guitar has remained a top choice for decades. Whether you’re just starting or have played for years, the Fender Mustang lineup has something for everyone. It’s known for its unique body and sound, making it a great partner for your music.
The Player and Player 90 Mustang models are great for the money, including the Ben Gibbard range1. Choosing a Fender Mustang means you’re in good company, with famous bands from Nirvana to The 1975 rocking them2. It shows your style and love for quality music.
Key Takeaways
- The Fender Mustang launched in 1964 and quickly outperformed other popular models1.
- Production ceased in 1982 but reissued in 1990 due to its cult status1.
- The Player and Player 90 Mustang models offer the best value for money1.
- Trend-setting players from Nirvana to The 1975 have used the Mustang model2.
- Engaging with Fender Play® can offer you a 10% discount on Fender gear with an annual subscription2.
The Iconic History of Fender Mustang Guitars
The Fender Mustang history is as gripping as the tunes created on it. It came out in 1964 as a ‘student guitar,’ with a price of $189.503. Even though it was budget-friendly, it quickly became popular with rising guitarists.
Early Beginnings
The first Fender Mustang guitars had cool features. They had two single-coil pickups and a special switch setup. They also had the groundbreaking Fender Dynamic Vibrato tailpiece4. Players could choose from a 22.5-inch or a 24-inch scale length. The 24-inch was the more loved option5.
The 1964 models came in red, white, and blue. They had unique pickguard and pickup covers3.
Rise to Popularity in the ’60s
In 1969, Fender brought out the “Competition” Mustang with cool racing stripes. This idea came from the Shelby Mustang cars of the late 1960s5. They came in Competition Burgundy, Blue, and Orange. This move made the Mustang an electric guitar icon4. By the end of the ’60s, it was a key part of many music scenes. But, they stopped making it in 19823.
Revival and Modern Influence
In the 1990s, the Fender Mustang made a huge comeback thanks to its fame in grunge and alternative rock. Its 1990 reissue attracted stars like Kurt Cobain and John McLaughlin5. The 2016 Mustang and Mustang 90 came with new features but kept the classic vibe5. These versions keep winning over new players, keeping the Mustang’s legendary status alive.
What Makes Fender Mustang Guitars Unique
Fender Mustang guitars stand out with their unique electric guitars. They blend design and sound in a special way. First available in 1964 for new players, these guitars were easy and comfortable to play6. Though they weren’t as famous as some models at first, stars like Kurt Cobain made them popular in the 90s6.
Offset Body Design
The Fender Mustang’s offset body design looks cool and is comfy to play. It’s also practical. The guitar’s small neck and light weight make it easy to hold, perfect for musicians who care about looking good and feeling good while playing6. The 2016 version keeps these great features and adds some new ones, like a 24-inch scale length and 22 medium jumbo frets3.
Distinctive Sound Profile
The unique sound of the Fender Mustang has won many fans. The original models had unusual pickups giving them a bright and versatile sound, fitting many music types like ambient, funk, and shoegaze6. The Mustang 90 offers a grittier sound with its MP-90 pickups but keeps the Mustang’s classic look3.
| Feature | 1964 Model | 2016 Model |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 1964 | 2016 |
| Neck Length | Shortscale Neck | 24-inch Scale Length |
| Pickup Configuration | Unique Pickups | Two Single-Coil Pickups |
| Colors | Red, White, Blue | Daphne Blue, Olympic White, Dakota Red |
A Closer Look at Fender Mustang Guitar Models
In 1964, the Fender Mustang entered the scene aimed at beginners. It quickly became liked for its flexible features7. At first, it came in two sizes: 22.5″ and 24″, similar to the Jaguar7. By the end of 1965, they stopped making the 22.5″ size. The 24″ size stayed popular until the late 1970s7. In 1972, Fender made a unique 25 1/2″ Mustang, a rare find today7.
The Japanese ’65 or ’69 reissues of the Fender Mustang mix old and new perfectly. They’re less costly and stick to the original designs. Fans of the guitar love these models for their vintage feel and modern sound. Many prefer these Japanese versions to the American ones due to their superb sound quality.
The Mustang™ Micro Plus is Fender’s newest innovative creation, packed with 25 amp and effect models, all for $149.998. This device is a part of the Mustang™ amp series and offers features like Bluetooth and Fender Tone® App compatibility8. With 100 editable presets, customizing your sound has never been easier8.
Here’s a comparative look at various Fender Mustang guitar models and their key features:
| Model | Scale Length | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Original 1964 Fender Mustang | 22.5″ and 24″ | Student-level design, popularity surged in the ’60s |
| 1972 Fender Mustang | 25 1/2″ | Rare long scale, original neck finish with red SPECIAL stamp7 |
| Japanese ’65 and ’69 Reissues | 24″ | Affordable, closely aligned to vintage specifications |
| Mustang™ Micro Plus | N/A | 25 amp models, 25 effects, 100 editable presets, Bluetooth8 |
Top Features of Fender Mustang Electric Guitars
Fender Mustang electric guitars are loved by many for their unique features and flexibility. These qualities make them perfect for musicians at any skill level.
Compact Scale Length
The Fender Mustang electric guitars stand out because of their short scale length, around 24 inches. This makes playing them comfortable, especially for those with smaller hands or beginners. These guitars still deliver great sound and are easy to play. The size of the Mustang LT25 amp highlights how compact and user-friendly these guitars are9.
Versatile Pickup Configurations
Fender Mustang electric guitars offer a wide range of sounds through their versatile pickup setups. They can fit any music style, thanks to their mix of single-coil pickups and humbuckers. The variety of pickups means you can find the perfect sound for any song. With updates like those in the Mustang GT series, you get even more sound options and preset storage10.
Tremolo and Vibrato Systems
The tremolo and vibrato systems of Fender Mustang guitars are impressive. They provide stable and responsive effects when used right. You can create gentle vibrato or big pitch changes smoothly with these systems. They’re easy to use and reliable, which is why many players love them. The Mustang LT25’s stereo auxiliary input also lets you add different sounds and effects easily9.
Comparing Vintage and Modern Versions
When we look at old Fender Mustang guitars and compare them to the new ones, we see differences and similarities. The old ones, which got famous in 1964, are now sought-after by collectors. This is due to their unique style, sound, and feel, all of which add to their value11. Newer Fender Mustang guitars are less expensive. This makes them beloved by both new musicians and seasoned pros who like the classic look but don’t want to spend a lot11.
The journey of Fender Mustang guitars has been filled with notable changes. For example, the bigger headstocks on Mustangs made by CBS between 1966-1970 show a shift in design. Meanwhile, today’s versions, like the Fender Player and Vintera series, keep the Mustang spirit alive. They add modern touches and better sound12. These updated guitars honor their roots while improving on things like the scale of the neck for easier playing12.
New Fender Mustangs, including the American Performer and Player 90 series, suit many music styles and player tastes. They’re a great deal, offering high quality at good prices1. Famous musicians such as Kurt Cobain have made these models even more popular. Cobain’s own Mustang, with its special Seymour Duncan humbucker, shows how versatile and beloved these guitars are1.
While old Mustang guitars are prized for their rarity and history, new models come with features that today’s players love. They offer a range of sounds, are flexible, and can be customized. This keeps Fender’s legacy of making top-notch electric guitars alive1.
So, if you’re drawn to the charm of old Fender Mustang guitars or the fresh aspects of new ones, both have special qualities. They meet different tastes and needs11121.
Best Fender Mustang Models for Your Budget
Looking for the right Fender Mustang to fit your budget is exciting. The Fender Mustang series provides amazing options for every price point. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced player, there’s a perfect Mustang for you.
Top Picks Under $500
If you’re on a budget but want a high-quality electric guitar, check out the Fender Player Mustang models. They give you a lot of bang for your buck, with playability scores from 73 to 80 and sound quality between 67 and 7513. The Fender Player and Player 90 Mustang series are top picks. They’re perfect for newcomers eager to explore the Fender Mustang world1.
Mid-Range Selections
The Vintera series shines in the mid-price range. These guitars bring back the ’60s Mustang feel with features like a tremolo bridge and single coil pickups with Alnico V magnets1. Known for their unique sound and solid construction, Vintera models score between 54 and 65 in build quality13. They offer a blend of old-school vibes and dependable performance with scores from 65 to 7313.
Premium Models Over $1000
For the big spenders, the American Performer Mustang stands out with high-end features and superior sound flexibility. It has a ‘Modern C’ neck shape and an offset alder body, mixing modern playability with classic looks1. These luxe models score between 71 and 84 in value for money, ensuring top-notch performance everywhere13.
The Fender Mustang series caters to all budgets, allowing every guitarist to find their ideal match. It promises quality and performance without any compromises.
Choosing Between Single-Coil and Humbucker Pickups
When picking a Fender Mustang, the choice between single-coil and humbucker pickups is key. Single-coil pickups, around since the 1930s, deliver a bright, clear tone. They fit perfectly with country and surf tunes14. The Fender Player Mustang is a great example of this sound.
On the other hand, humbucker pickups came about in the 1950s. They’re known for their rich and full sound, which reduces unwanted noise with their dual-coil setup14. They’re a hit in jazz, rock, and metal music14. The Kurt Cobain Signature Mustang, with its humbuckers, delivers sounds perfect for grunge and rock.
In Fender Mustangs, the battle is often between versatility and output. Modern single-coils can match humbuckers in power and appeal across many music styles14. For instance, the Duncan Designed Mustang model’s bridge pickup has a DC resistance of 11.53k ohms. Its neck pickup’s resistance is 7.11k ohms, making it highly dynamic15.
Upgrading pickups on affordable guitars can really make a difference in sound14. Using 250k pots and a 0.05uF capacitor in the Mustang helps get a darker tone with the tone knob down. This adds more flavor to your music15.
Choosing between single-coil and humbucker pickups depends on the music you play and the tone you want. Whether it’s the clear tones of single-coils or the fullness of humbuckers, each type enhances your music in unique ways.
The Fender Mustang Series: A Model Breakdown
The Fender Mustang series offers a wide range of electric guitars. Each model has its own special features. The Fender Player series is great for beginners and costs around $800. It’s reliable for playing live and in the studio16.
If you like old-school guitars, check out the Fender Vintera II series. It starts at $1,150 and brings back the style and sound of ’50s to ’70s Mustangs16. Japanese Mustangs are close to $1,000 and are known for their quality, similar to US models16. The ’73 RI models are lighter, weighing between 6.5-7.5 lb17.
For high-end choices, the Fender American Performer series starts at $1,400. It combines old and new designs16. The American Professional II series is priced at $1,800. These guitars are built to last16. The Kurt Cobain Signature model is heavier and has a unique sound, thanks to a special pickup1718.
Modern models like the Player 90s have P90 pickups. They give a full sound, perfect for chords and singing parts18. The American Performer Mustang has a ‘Dynamic’ vibrato system. It looks classic but has a modern touch18.
Mustang guitars are popular in punk, grunge, and indie-rock. They’re smaller and more affordable18. Famous musicians like Kurt Cobain and Damon Albarn love the Mustang for its unique sound18. Every Mustang model offers something special, from the pickups to the way it feels in your hand.
How to Maintain and Upgrade Your Fender Mustang
Taking good care of your Fender Mustang and making smart electric guitar upgrades can really boost your guitar’s performance and life. Keeping it in great shape and adding the right improvements is key. This not only keeps your investment safe, but also makes sure your guitar always sounds its best.
Essential Maintenance Tips
To keep your Fender Mustang in top shape, start with cleaning it often. After playing, a quick wipe with a soft cloth can stop sweat and dirt from damaging it. Also, change the strings often to keep the sound fresh. Make sure the vibrato system is correctly adjusted for stable tuning and fix any problems right away.
Inspecting your guitar’s electronics is also vital. Check the potentiometers, switches, and output jack for wear or damage. Keeping these parts working well prevents noise and signal issues when you play.
Popular Upgrades
For electric guitar upgrades, think about the sound you want from your Fender Mustang. Many choose to swap pickups for a richer tone, with Seymour Duncan Antiquities as a favorite for their clear, vintage sound. Changing potentiometer values can also boost your guitar’s volume and richness.
A new amp can really change your sound. The Fender Mustang IV amp is a favorite for its flexibility and diverse tones. It’s especially famous for its clear distortion19. If you want something small and easy to carry, the Fender Mustang GT40 is perfect for practice20. Looking into amps can help find the right sound.
To make the best choice, see what others say. Join forums like this one to get tips and stories from fellow players. This can guide your upgrade path.
By taking good care of your guitar and choosing upgrades wisely, you can improve your music and keep your Fender Mustang playing perfectly.
Fender Mustang Vintage Models: A Collector’s Dream
For those who love collector’s electric guitars, Fender Mustang vintage models are a real treasure. These guitars stand out for their unique sound and how they feel to play. They’re also prized for their history. The years from 1966 to 1970 produced models that are especially sought after. They came in cool colors like Dakota Red, Olympic White, and Daphne Blue.
The Fender Mustang came out in mid-1964 with a cool tremolo design and was longer at 24 inches21. Initially, it used ash wood but later changed to alder21. It followed the Musicmaster and Duo-Sonic models from 1955. They were made for everyone from beginners to pros. Quickly, the Fender Mustang became a big hit21.
The most wanted Mustangs are the late-60s models with racing stripes. They were red, blue, and yellow with matching headstocks21.
The ’70s brought Mustangs that were more budget-friendly, offering shiny finishes in red, black, white, and cream22. Even though these are valuable, the Mustangs made before 1965 are even more sought after. That’s because they’re rarer and more desirable among collectors22.
Fender Mustang vintage models are a collector’s dream. They’re not just rare; they have stories to tell. Each one holds a special place in the Fender legacy because of its features, sound, and emotional value22.
Exploring the New Fender Mustang Guitars
The new Fender Mustang guitars mix old and new, perfect for today’s players. They come with modern features that improve how they play and sound. This ensures they’re great for all kinds of music.
Latest Releases
The Player II Mustang® is especially exciting and costs $799.9923. It has an alder body, a maple neck, and is 24 inches long. The neck’s shape is modern C, and it has two single-coil pickups for a great sound.
It’s great for alt/indie rock because of its sound24. Plus, it looks cool with black knobs, white indicators, and nickel/chrome finish23.
Technological Advancements
These guitars have Yosemite single-coil pickups for a clear, vibrant sound24. They’re light, so you can play longer without getting tired. Their unique neck and short scale make them stand out.
Some models have a special bridge that changes their sound and how they play. This shows Fender’s mix of old and new styles.
Fender also offers deals, like a 10% discount on gear with a Fender Play sign-up. Plus, there’s free shipping all through August23. This shows how Fender blends old skills with new perks to match today’s music needs.
Spotlight on Famous Fender Mustang Players
The Fender Mustang is loved by top musicians in rock and alternative music. We’ll look at three famous players who have greatly influenced the music world with this guitar.
Kurt Cobain
Kurt Cobain of Nirvana loved the Fender Mustang for its sound and affordability. His playing style matched the Mustang’s unique sounds, inspiring many. To honor his legacy, Fender even created a special Kurt Cobain model25.
John McLaughlin
John McLaughlin played with Miles Davis and the Mahavishnu Orchestra. He showcased his incredible talent with the Mustang. It helped blend jazz and rock, showing the guitar’s wide appeal.
David Byrne
David Byrne from Talking Heads also chose the Fender Mustang. Its versatility was perfect for his varied music sty1e. The Mustang’s design made it easy for Byrne to play his innovative music26.
These musicians show the Fender Mustang’s versatility and popularity. Whether it’s Cobain’s energy, McLaughlin’s skill, or Byrne’s creativity, the Mustang is a top choice for artists making their mark.
Learn more about other recommended guitars for different playing styles here.
Conclusion
The Fender Mustang guitar series is truly special, known for its flexibility and charm. These guitars have been loved by musicians since the ’60s. They come in different models, each with unique features like short scale length and various pickup options. This makes them perfect for many musical styles and tastes.
If you love the classic vibe of the original models or are excited by new features in recent versions, there’s a Fender Mustang for you. These guitars not only have a unique sound but also fit any budget. You can choose from single-coil or humbucker pickups, adding to the customization you can do.
Keeping your Fender Mustang guitar in top shape means you’ll enjoy great sound for a long time. Icons like Kurt Cobain and John McLaughlin have shown what these guitars can do. Whether you’re recording or playing live, a Fender Mustang guitar isn’t just an instrument. It’s a piece of music history that could define your sound. Choosing the right Fender Mustang model could discover your next favorite guitar27!
