Gear article

Fender Player II Jaguar RW Polar White

The Fender Player II Jaguar is a contemporary electric guitar that updates the classic offset design for modern playability while maintaining its iconic aesthetic. Part of the second-generation Player Series, it features an alder body, rosewood fingerboard with rolled edges, and updated hardware including Mustang-style saddles.

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Overview

The Fender Player II Jaguar in Polar White represents a bridge between vintage offset heritage and modern manufacturing standards. As the successor to the original Player Series, this model introduces several refinements designed to improve the tactile experience for guitarists. It retains the shorter 24-inch scale length traditional to the Jaguar lineage, which offers a unique string tension and feel compared to longer-scale Fender models like the Stratocaster or Telecaster.

Construction and Playability

The guitar is built around a contoured alder body, finished in a clean Polar White. The neck features a 'Modern C' profile with a satin urethane finish on the back to prevent sticking during play. A significant upgrade in the Player II series is the inclusion of a 9.5-inch radius rosewood fingerboard featuring rolled edges, a feature typically reserved for more expensive models. This design aims to provide a more comfortable, 'broken-in' feel across the frets.

Electronics and Hardware

Equipped with two Player Series Alnico single-coil Jaguar pickups, the instrument provides a broad tonal palette suitable for various musical genres. The hardware has been specifically selected to address common Jaguar stability issues; the bridge utilizes Mustang-style saddles to ensure strings remain seated during aggressive playing, paired with a classic floating tremolo system. Precise tuning is managed by Fender ClassicGear tuning machines.

Sound Character

The alnico magnets in the pickups deliver a crisp, articulate sound with the characteristic 'jangle' associated with offset guitars. While it retains the bright top-end common to single-coils, the alder body provides a balanced resonant foundation. This makes the guitar versatile enough to handle clean surf-rock tones, alternative rock textures, and high-gain indie applications.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to the vintage-spec Fender Kurt Cobain Jaguar, the Player II is more streamlined and lacks the complex lead/rhythm circuit switching, making it more accessible for modern players. Within the Fender ecosystem, it serves as a more contemporary alternative to the American Professional II series, offering similar modern neck comforts at a more accessible price point. While brands like Gibson offer shorter-scale options like the Les Paul Standard 50s P90, the Jaguar provides a distinctly different percussive attack and tremolo response.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the scale length of the Player II Jaguar?
Like traditional Jaguars, this model features a 24-inch scale length. This shorter scale results in lower string tension and a unique feel compared to 25.5-inch scale guitars.
What material is the body made from?
The body is constructed from alder. Alder is a classic tonewood for Fender, known for its balanced response and comfortable weight.
Does this guitar have a rosewood fingerboard?
Yes, this specific model features a rosewood (RW) fingerboard. The Player II series reintroduces rosewood to the lineup, including rolled edges for improved comfort.
What is the neck profile of the Player II Jaguar?
It features a Modern C-shaped neck profile. This profile is designed to be versatile and comfortable for a wide variety of hand sizes and playing styles.
What type of pickups are installed?
The guitar is equipped with Player Series Alnico single-coil Jaguar pickups. These are voiced to provide a mix of vintage clarity and modern output.
How does the bridge differ from vintage Jaguar bridges?
This model uses a Jaguar bridge with Mustang-style saddles. These saddles feature single grooves for each string, which helps prevent strings from slipping out of place during heavy playing.
What kind of tuners are used on this model?
It features Fender ClassicGear tuners. These provide a vintage aesthetic while offering the precision and stability of modern tuning machine technology.
What finish is applied to the neck?
The neck has a satin urethane finish on the back. This provides a smooth, non-sticky feel that facilitates fast movement up and down the fretboard.
Is the tremolo system fixed or floating?
It features a floating tremolo system. This allows for expressive pitch bends and vibrato, characteristic of the classic Jaguar sound.
What is the fingerboard radius?
The fingerboard has a 9.5-inch (241 mm) radius. This is a modern standard for Fender, offering a compromise between easy chording and clean note bending.
Who is this guitar intended for?
It is designed for contemporary players who want iconic Fender style with modern upgrades. It is versatile enough for genres ranging from indie and alternative to pop and rock.
Does the Player II Jaguar include the traditional lead/rhythm circuit?
The Player II series typically simplifies the electronics compared to vintage-spec models. It focuses on a more direct control layout for ease of use in modern performance settings.