What is the body material of the Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII?

The body of this guitar is constructed from poplar, a lightweight wood known for its balanced tonal qualities.

Does the neck have any special reinforcement?

Yes, the maple neck features graphite reinforcement. This is crucial for maintaining stability against the high tension of twelve strings.

What type of pickups are installed in this model?

It features two Fender-Designed alnico single-coil Jazzmaster pickups. These provide a powerful, open sound suitable for various playing styles from rock to metal.

What fretboard wood is used?

The guitar uses a laurel fretboard, which offers a smooth playing surface and complements the maple neck.

What is the typical price for this guitar in the UK?

The Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII typically retails for approximately £429.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

Yes, its design makes it easy to play with precision regardless of skill level. However, beginners should note that tuning a 12-string instrument is more complex than a standard 6-string.

Can this guitar be used for heavy music styles?

Yes, the alnico single-coil pickups are versatile enough to handle genres ranging from rock to metal. The 12-string configuration adds unique harmonic texture to leads and rhythms.

What finish is available for this specific model?

This specific model features a classic Lake Placid Blue finish, a timeless Fender aesthetic.

How does the body shape affect playability?

The iconic offset Jazzmaster body shape is designed for ergonomic comfort. It balances well on the body, making it easier to play for extended periods.

What is the sonic character of a 12-string Jazzmaster?

It is known for doubling down on 'chiming' tones and rich harmonic character. The extra strings create a natural chorus effect that adds depth to arpeggios.

How does it compare to a Squier Mini Stratocaster?

The Jazzmaster XII is a full-sized 12-string instrument designed for professional performance and harmonic depth, whereas the Mini Stratocaster is a 3/4-sized 6-string guitar for younger players or travel.

Is the bridge design different from a standard Jazzmaster?

Yes, the bridge is specifically designed to accommodate twelve strings and ensure proper intonation across the doubled string sets.

Gear article

Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII

The Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII is a 12-string electric guitar that combines the iconic offset body shape of the Jazzmaster with the chiming harmonic character of a doubled string set. It features Fender-Designed alnico single-coil pickups and a graphite-reinforced neck for enhanced stability and playability.

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Overview

The Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII is an electric 12-string guitar designed to provide a rich, harmonic sound within a classic offset aesthetic. Part of the Paranormal series, which explores forgotten or unconventional Fender designs, this model features a poplar body, a maple neck, and a laurel fretboard. It is distinguished by its Lake Placid Blue finish and its ability to deliver the 'jangle' associated with traditional 12-string instruments while maintaining the ergonomic comfort of a Jazzmaster.

Design and Construction

The guitar is built with a focus on structural integrity to manage the increased tension of twelve strings. Key features include:

Graphite Reinforcement: The maple neck is reinforced with graphite to ensure long-term stability and prevent warping.
Body Shape: The traditional offset Jazzmaster body provides comfort for both seated and standing play.
Tonewoods: The combination of a poplar body and a laurel fretboard offers a balanced tonal response suitable for various genres.

Electronics and Sound

Equipped with dual Fender-Designed alnico single-coil Jazzmaster pickups, the instrument produces an open and powerful sound. These pickups are designed to be versatile, handling everything from shimmering arpeggios in rock contexts to more aggressive tones in heavier genres. The 12-string configuration naturally enhances the harmonic character of the output, creating a 'chime' that helps the guitar stand out in a mix.

Market Position and Comparisons

Retailing at approximately £429, the Paranormal Jazzmaster XII serves as an accessible entry point for players seeking a 12-string electric guitar. While it lacks the traditional bridge system of models like the Fender American Professional II Stratocaster or the complex switching of a Kurt Cobain Jaguar, it offers a specific niche sound. It provides a more expansive tonal palette than compact models like the Squier Mini Stratocaster or entry-level options like the Stagg SES-30BK, making it a professional-grade tool for studio or stage work.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body material of the Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII?: The body of this guitar is constructed from poplar, a lightweight wood known for its balanced tonal qualities.
Does the neck have any special reinforcement?: Yes, the maple neck features graphite reinforcement. This is crucial for maintaining stability against the high tension of twelve strings.
What type of pickups are installed in this model?: It features two Fender-Designed alnico single-coil Jazzmaster pickups. These provide a powerful, open sound suitable for various playing styles from rock to metal.
What fretboard wood is used?: The guitar uses a laurel fretboard, which offers a smooth playing surface and complements the maple neck.
What is the typical price for this guitar in the UK?: The Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII typically retails for approximately £429.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?: Yes, its design makes it easy to play with precision regardless of skill level. However, beginners should note that tuning a 12-string instrument is more complex than a standard 6-string.
Can this guitar be used for heavy music styles?: Yes, the alnico single-coil pickups are versatile enough to handle genres ranging from rock to metal. The 12-string configuration adds unique harmonic texture to leads and rhythms.
What finish is available for this specific model?: This specific model features a classic Lake Placid Blue finish, a timeless Fender aesthetic.
How does the body shape affect playability?: The iconic offset Jazzmaster body shape is designed for ergonomic comfort. It balances well on the body, making it easier to play for extended periods.
What is the sonic character of a 12-string Jazzmaster?: It is known for doubling down on 'chiming' tones and rich harmonic character. The extra strings create a natural chorus effect that adds depth to arpeggios.
How does it compare to a Squier Mini Stratocaster?: The Jazzmaster XII is a full-sized 12-string instrument designed for professional performance and harmonic depth, whereas the Mini Stratocaster is a 3/4-sized 6-string guitar for younger players or travel.
Is the bridge design different from a standard Jazzmaster?: Yes, the bridge is specifically designed to accommodate twelve strings and ensure proper intonation across the doubled string sets.