Mike, you're like the cool high school teacher that all of the kids want for their History class. Very informative and entertaining video! Thanks for the great content!
Personally, I like the Buffy theme for testing out cheap Ibanez. Its so good on those cheaper line pickups. I think Nerf Herder did that... or was it Nada Surf? I can't remember now.
Your Jazzmaster reviews has made me decide to buy a CV Jazzmaster , and look through all your videos to see how to set them up. Also King of the Hill is one of my fav shows so I now have to learn that song on the new Jazzmaster I’m gonna get
You're a breath of fresh air on UA-cam, and what's even sweeter is that you love offsets! I'm a Jaguar player, just love the shortscale length. Looking forward to more videos :) much love from the UK
I know this is an old video, but I'll comment anyway. I started playing the bass 3 years ago and recently picked up a guitar. After one mediocre and one really bad setup job on my bass, I'm fed up wasting money in my (apparently lousy) local guitar shops and I'm gonna try to take care of things myself. Your videos are really helpful, informative and encouraging. I've already decided that I'm gonna get some Jazzmaster (probably Squier CV 60s) in the near future and I'm getting more and more confident that I can do the initial setup myself. Thanks, Mike!
Great point at the end. Being your own tech is so handy for being able to fix things on the fly instead of losing out on a bit of gear just before a studio session or gig, and it's lead me down the slippery slope of completely modding guitars with new body routes (fixed up my Jagmaster recently for Wide Ranges and a rhythm circuit). Thanks for this great content - another reminder I really need to shim my Mustang neck!
I appreciate the way you assess the guitar so thoroughly. Lots of people will just finish the one thing that you specifically tell them about, and won't necessarily take the initiative to say oh by the way, I also noticed x and y. It makes me think they probably don't take the time to look at neck angle when it comes to setting up Jazzmasters and Jags. I had a guitar set up once that came back playing exactly the same, with what felt like the same strings (I paid for new ones), and like the guys down at Jiffy Lube had played a few songs on it.
Jay, I try to take my time with each guitar which is why I usually charge a flat fee rather than an hourly rate. I play it for a bit, ask a lot of clarifying questions about play style, tuning, hand pressure, and clean vs effected sounds, and then blend it all together to help me setup the guitar for its player. It's a lot of me thinking and pacing, but I think I do alright! I worked on my first Jazzmaster in or around 2008 -- they just didn't pop up much in my home town. And when it came in, I noticed the string skipping issue and was completely confused by it. I didn't want to just hand it back as-is, so I did as much reading as I possibly could, considered every factor, and I'll admit it took me a couple of years after that for everything to click! But you're right, the tilt-back thing doesn't really come to mind for most folks because it just isn't routine for other guitars.
@@Puisheen that's great. Each person has their own sounds in their head, a particular way their hands interact with the guitar, all sorts of things, so a more personalized set up is worth it. Gotta start saving for my pilgrimage up north :) 👍
Hey guy, you're are a real nut, and because of that I really appreciate you. I have that similar type of humor myself. It's great to see another fellow human that has this great trait. It makes life more interesting.
Hey, Mate! Just wanted to drop a bite saying cheers for all the content! I’m modding my second JM at the mo’, albeit with pre-wired harnesses. Did install some Curtis Novaks in a Squier XII, and now in a Player LTD Ed.! Great gin and learning a lot! Cheers!
THANX! This helps a whole lot. You touched on a few issues on my Jazzmaster setup that I was grappling with. Timing of the video was perfect! Much appreciated!
Wicked video, man. New to the channel, and am very close to picking up a my first Jazzmaster after messing around with cheaper stuff for a while (currently using an old Teisco K-56 1999 reissue), and videos like this are exactly what I'm looking for. Informative, friendly, and inspiring. I aim to be able to repair my own guitars in the future, as, like yourself, I definitely feel it would add an extra level of connection with the instrument. Gonna keep powering through your other videos. Cheers!
very cool video! the king of the hill theme song got me, i play it too when i finish a set up, also very nice playng at the end. Luthier from Argentina here. Great content!
This is such a great video. I broke down and took my jazzfriend to a local luthier, but I'm going to come back to and reference this video in the future.
Sweet jesus Mike! You absolutely nailed that King of the hill intro there. I tip my hat, sir! You should sell Jazzmasters and Jazzmaster accessories for a livin'!
I'm a new subscriber Mike. I'm getting my first JM next month. I ordered it last August from Chicago Music Exchange. It's the Squier CV limited edition purple w/anodized guard. I'm watching your past videos now, learning and getting pumped for when she arrives. Thanks for your help and tips. Cheers from Detroit.
The finish on that jazz matches the guard perfectly... all that wit the flame neck and that might be one of the best examples of how a fender guitar cant hold it's own next to any other burst guitar
Oh yeah those metal signs were a surprise antique store find! They're around if you look for them, I keep seeing them pop up! I think there were four other variations too
You've inspired me to take apart my CV Jazzmaster this weekend! I have to ask though, are there any alternatives to the stew mac shims that you use? I don't really have access to stew mac from my part of the world and I was wondering if maybe card stock or a playing card would work. Thanks for all these videos, Mike! You're a real inspiration :)
Do you have access to a 3D printer? I designed and printed my own full-pocket shims, and I've used them in four guitars so far with excellent results. I know your comment is 3+ months old, so you probably sorted it by now, but just putting it out there, as I find it a good option.
Improper setup is so important. Unfortunately, no one bothered to read the instructions that came with the guitar. Go figure! Thanks for doing this. This is so important for using the Jazzmaster the way it was designed. Did you write the article I read called "Jazzmaster/Jaguar Setup Tips and Tricks"?? I read that a while back and I loved that someone wrote it! I'm going to be following that to a T when I set up my partsmaster!
Whenever I think about how the included manuals had all of this information, it just blows my mind. Reading them could have saved nearly 50 years of poor reception and complaints! But let's be honest, I don't read every single manual I get so I understand. But still!
Mike, I've been watching ur vids lately. Good info from a strait up jazzmaster guy. I got a fender usa jazzmaster neck and a warmoth body. Been compiling parts for a jazzmaster for a while. Probably going to get a bit weird in the wiring. Got the novak's because of one of your vids. If you'd be interested in talking about building a jazzmaster step by step I'd be happy to contribute my build journey.
I have plans in place to really dive into the setup and maintenance of these guitars on a subject-by-subject basis, and one of those videos surely will discuss parts builds!
Whoops I spaced on the Helix link! On it! (Also pickup height is definitely a thing I want to talk about, but the result of the setup is actually pretty much where I adjust most Jazzmasters. My own look nearly identical in height
Hey Mike! Nice to see you doing a proper channel!! Thanks for all the helpful info over the years! I don't own a Jazzmaster, and probably won't for a while, but I'm curious about the original bridge versus the Mastery. I've seen you say that it is possible to use the original Jazzmaster bridge correctly, it just needs to be set up right. I just wanna know why the Mastery works the way it does, and why it seems so difficult for people to set up the OG bridge correctly?
The original bridge works great, as seen in this video and the previous one on the Jaguar. I think the issue isn't a matter of design or materials, but rather, education. Most people approach offsets as they would any "normal" guitar without considering the string geometry, the flow from tailpiece to tuners. Increasing bridge height by using adequate neck tilt-back is crucial, but not necessarily the first thing most techs think of when they're doing a setup. The Mastery is my favorite aftermarket bridge, but because it's designed to remain stationary and has deep grooves for the strings, the neck tilt-back feature isn't quite as crucial because you're not having to increase downward pressure on the bridge to keep things stable. Although I'd argue that these guitars still play best with some degree of tilt-back
great video! Thanks Mike. Now, I know my bridge is set up wrong.. ish. How do I know? because I faffed about with it when I was 18 and didn't know what I was doing :D I have my bridge set lower and the saddles set higher (partly as the screws were getting in the way of my low E string. ) Does this matter? I think the vibrato doesnt' bend as low, but I've never felt I'm missing out. tuning stays pretty good... any thoughts? cheers Luke
I have a '66 to set up. It really needs some love. Dad always strung it with flats, but I'm more a noise player than all the Wes Montgomery type clean stuff so put some Ball rounds on there, but now it's all buzzy. Thinking about that Mastery bridge upgrade, guess it's worthy of a couple hundred, being worth itself as the last pre-CBS model around $9k ... better shape than that '65 for sure.. same rhythm switch problem. just a dust bunny died in there. thanks.
It's been so long that I don't remember, but if you're going for the Stew Mac shims just get the three pack and figure out what works for your particular instrument.
I have to adjust the intonation on a Jazzmaster. Unlike yours that has Philips head screws, this one needs an Allen key to adjust. Could you tell me what size Allen key would be needed on a Jazzmaster?
I watched the Jag Stand video along with this one and would like to have seen how you would do intonation on both guitars. I have a new Squier 40th Anniversary Gold edition Jazzmaster and find the Mustang bridge very perplexing as it doesn't seem to allow intonation very well because the string just slides over the top seemingly. Anyway I learned some things but would like to have seen the full setup to include intonation procedures on these bridges.
I received a J Mascis Jazzmaster yesterday and changed out the pick guard but not sure about how the pick ups should be installed or distance from the strings? Or do I just tighten them down all the way? The pick ups sit on springs. I installed them sort of loose for now. I am new to all this.
I like this video and much of your content because I am interested in Jazzmasters and think I may need to get one to access certain sounds that I want to attain and that influence me. What about intonation? Isn't that the most important part of setup? I didn't see you touch on that at all in this video.
Hello! I have to say that in the outro you played, that is the best sounding Jazzmaster I've ever heard. What amp did you use? Any pedals? Those original pickups sound amazing, WELL DONE CAROL. I've been hankering for a Jazzmaster for years, I've only got 1 electric and it's an old beat up Gretsch I've modded the hell out of. I was wondering if you could help give me an answer - what's the best option for a vintage spec 60's Jazzmaster like this one these days? Actual 60s Jazzmasters are insanely priced over here in the UK so that's out of the question. Are any new Fenders good enough? Or do I mod a Squier Classic vibe? Or even just build my own? Just wanted to know your thoughts - again this guitar sounds like the real deal. Cheers!
Caaaaaaarollll thank you so much for the kind words. So, I use the Line 6 Helix for these videos because I live in a smallish apartment and don't want to be a jerk to the neighbors. Someday when I have more space, I'll swap over to real, loud amps for this stuff. That '65 Jazzmaster definitely sounded great though. There are plenty of good Jazzmasters out there. US Fender is a good safe bet, and my favorites are the AVRI62s that preceded today's AV65 and AO models. Also, if you can nab a Roadworn those can be excellent with upgrades. I do love Squier Classic Vibes and they're great modding platforms, so if you just want a taste of the JM "thing" you'd do well with one of those
I have a new to me super nice Blue flower Jazzmaster, made in Japan. The guitar is my first offset so I am on learning process of how do setup and best strings and so on. Factory setup honestly is already good. Only unusual thing is the is comes from the factory with 0.9. Not great issue but I would go to .10 or maybe .11. Guitar neck has a certain breaing angle and no problem with tuning stability. I just see that the bridge is not moving that much when I use the tremolo. Maybe heavier strings will make the bridge move more? What shims angle do You feel that is average ok on JM? Thank You so much, I really appreciate Your informative contents on YT, IG and website. I have read them all.
Hey Marco, every guitar is different so it's difficult to point to a magic number that will solve your issues, but it seems that MOST guitars I've worked on require between .3 and .85 degrees of tiltback. And you're correct, heavier strings will always work better with these designs, though you may also be experiencing issues with the Japanese bridge which has much more shallow saddle grooves and usually a polished chrome plating on the saddles that makes them a bit more slippery. Friction is key for having the bridge move along with your vibrato.
Hey again, Puisheen! Just got some new jazzy pickups and electronics. Was wondering if you had any thoughts on pickup height? I can't seem to find a good basline online so I thought I'd come to my favorite jazzy player for advice 👍
I plan to explore that a bit, but as you can see in some shots of this video, I like them closer to the strings as one might with any other pickup. There's definitely a 'sweet spot' as far as getting the string in the right part of the pickup's magnetic field, but I always use my ears to tell me when I'm getting that perfect blend of output and tonality.
Thank you so much for making this video! I was wondering - is there a particular rule of thumb for placing the strings on the saddles for these vintage Jazzmasters? I have an early 60s JM and pretty much eyeball where I lay the strings.
Thanks for all your help Mike! I finally got the Shell Pink Squier Jazzmaster and have been following your tips on setting it up and it is working really well! My next step is to replace the electronics and pickups. I am planning on getting the Curtis Novak JM-V (neck) and JM-Fat (bridge) and I want to keep the traditional Jazzmaster wiring with the Rhythm circuit but I would like to make some additions. I thought of installing a Free-Way 3X3-05 6 position toggle switch as well as a treble bleed mod and also allow the Rhythm circuit to work with the switch in order to use it with the bridge pickups as well as the neck, and neck+bridge. I reached out to Free-Way and they sent me a schematic on how to obtain positions 4, 5, and 5 from below: Positions 1. Neck 2. Neck+Bridge in parallel 3. Bridge 4. Neck+Bridge in Series/In Phase 5. Neck+Bridge in Series/Out of Phase 6. Neck+Bridge in Parallel/Out of Phase Do you know anyone who could help me figure out how to combine the wiring diagram sent by Free-Way with the traditional Jazzmaster wiring diagram plus having the Rhythm circuit work with the typical three pickup configurations? I have looked online and haven't found the answer and was hoping you could point me towards the right direction! Thanks again and my next step is to level the frets and crown them! cheers, Jon
could you do a vid on jazzmaster action adjustment? i lowered by lowering the bridge as a whole via the two screws and i dont think thats the correct way
Another great video, Mike! I’m thinking of going a different route with strings instead the usual Power Slinkys I’m thinking DR 11-50. I’ve seen them on your Instagram. Thoughts on those versus the Ernie Balls?
I have a one degree neck shim in my Jazzmaster. The bridge is raised, the strings don't pop out, but my bridge does not move? Should it? If so, why does it not move?
How high should I have the Mastery Bridge, if I want to also have the proper neck pitch? I'm pushing 4mm right now, and I'm still experiencing buzzing. Should I go higher?
hey mike. Great Video. Just one question i got the part to go up and down with the steel wool not side to side, but the steel wool will not scratch up the fretboard?
I mean that's all buffing really is: putting successively finer scratches on a thing until it looks smooth. 0000 steel wool is fine enough that it's not gouging the board, but rather, smoothing it out and clearing away debris.
Would you be able to do an in depth video about the cat whisker diodes In your rivers strat like where to get it and how to wire it because I'm planning out a warmoth strat I want to build and I'd like to have that in it
The AMPRO has that screw-in arm and tape can certainly help. Personally, I vastly prefer the push-in US arm and collet, and if fit isn't great I use the "hammer trick" to get it to stay in place as I've done with all of my own guitars. Try the tape and if not, could be a good idea to buy those parts?
hey puisheen, great video. thanks for making it it! i bough a fender mexican jazzmaster in 2017 it was the green surf green with nitrocellulose finish. i find that when i use the trem, it cases the bridge to sink (permanently) and then i get a lot of fret buzz. can you please tell me is there anyway to stop this? is it normal for the bridge to sink when using the trem? the guitar cost 1100 euros so i am a bit disappointed. once again thank you for the video.
So...was Leo right? I'm assuming this passed QC at the time with plenty of bridge height to play with and no one used any crazy high gauge strings, wouldn't the neck have moved over time?
Playing at the end was a pleasant surprise. This video is maybe my favorite content of yours so far. I maybe missed it, but you don't mention what shim you ended up with for the guitar?
Properly setting the trem spring tension (in conjunction with the bridge lock) is the most unique thing about setting these up. If you are here to understand how to do that, I'll save you 23 minutes by telling you that it's not discussed at all in this video.
Hi Mike - I’m really enjoying your JM videos as I plan what will be my next guitar (also a big Strat fan). One thing I know for sure is that the JM I buy will have a proper rhythm circuit - so, my question is whether the new Am Pro II and its pickups are amenable to modification of its serial circuit to a proper rhythm circuit. Or......is it best to get an American Original (even though I don’t particularly like neck binding). Thanks so much. Take care.
@@Puisheen Thanks for your reply - those ‘62 AVRIs are rare beasts but the search will keep me occupied while I keep playing my 4 Strats! One last question - I find Strats to be perfectly balanced when played sat down (as I do); are JMs as well balanced? Thanks so much! Subscription earned, by the way!
Thank you so much for sharing your work mike! Is that ok using the still wool with out protecting the wood of the fretboard? I saw before using masking tape. Thank you and keep it going please!
Of course! That's the only way to make changes with the heel adjustment. After doing it for so many years, you start to get a feel for what a neck needs based on visual cues. I usually get it sorted on the first try.
With my jazzmaster set up with lowish action the E strings hit the screws on the tremolo. Have you seen this and how can it be addressed? I’m playing a Squire 60s classic vibe. Also, I’d like to upgrade to an AVRI tremolo but I can’t find one for a lefty. Do you have any leads on one or even know the part number?
Yeah that happens with reissue vibratos all the time, the domed pivot plate mounting screws are rounder and taller than they used to be. Often you can get more clearance by setting the thing up with shims to pitch back the neck, raising the bridge, but sometimes not. If it's too difficult, I'll often remove those screws and flip them upside down so the head sits under the pivot plate, which usually solves the problem.
When do you adjust the intonation? That's the only thing I feel I can't do at home, but the rest seemed feasible. Also, how did you fix the nut issue, just curious!
I do that after everything else, but before play testing. To properly intonate a guitar, it's best to use brand new, unplayed strings because the moment you start playing the frets form little divots on the bottom of the strings, and that can make intonation far less precise. I'm totally blanking on the nut issue in this vid, what was it again?
@@Puisheen the nut slot was too narrow for the string and it was catching. Looked like even some graphite couldn’t fix it so just curious about how one would even begin to open up the string slot
Another mike, another 65 jazzmaster! I'm also mike and my jazzmaster has been in the family since 65. Thank you for keeping them alive!
Love This!!
Mike, you're like the cool high school teacher that all of the kids want for their History class. Very informative and entertaining video! Thanks for the great content!
I love this haha, my favorite shop teach is probably a big influence on me still!
Like jack black
Wow. I also test my setups with TV show theme songs. So this is what it feels like when doves cry...
It's the only way to do it, I think
Personally, I like the Buffy theme for testing out cheap Ibanez. Its so good on those cheaper line pickups. I think Nerf Herder did that... or was it Nada Surf? I can't remember now.
Your Jazzmaster reviews has made me decide to buy a CV Jazzmaster , and look through all your videos to see how to set them up. Also King of the Hill is one of my fav shows so I now have to learn that song on the new Jazzmaster I’m gonna get
Beautiful neck on this Jazzmaster. One of the nicest stock necks I've seen.
You're a breath of fresh air on UA-cam, and what's even sweeter is that you love offsets! I'm a Jaguar player, just love the shortscale length. Looking forward to more videos :) much love from the UK
Super kind of you, Jack! I love Jags, they're such great and focused guitars!
I know this is an old video, but I'll comment anyway. I started playing the bass 3 years ago and recently picked up a guitar. After one mediocre and one really bad setup job on my bass, I'm fed up wasting money in my (apparently lousy) local guitar shops and I'm gonna try to take care of things myself. Your videos are really helpful, informative and encouraging. I've already decided that I'm gonna get some Jazzmaster (probably Squier CV 60s) in the near future and I'm getting more and more confident that I can do the initial setup myself. Thanks, Mike!
Really enjoyed the King of the Hill theme! Boy howdy, I sure miss that show, I tell you hwaaat.
Great point at the end. Being your own tech is so handy for being able to fix things on the fly instead of losing out on a bit of gear just before a studio session or gig, and it's lead me down the slippery slope of completely modding guitars with new body routes (fixed up my Jagmaster recently for Wide Ranges and a rhythm circuit). Thanks for this great content - another reminder I really need to shim my Mustang neck!
Okay yeah this just completely convinced me to buy a jazzmaster
just found this vid...glad i did!
hope the customer was happy with the "revamped" 65 jazzy!
OMG that King of the Hill riff. Made me smile ear to ear
I appreciate the way you assess the guitar so thoroughly. Lots of people will just finish the one thing that you specifically tell them about, and won't necessarily take the initiative to say oh by the way, I also noticed x and y. It makes me think they probably don't take the time to look at neck angle when it comes to setting up Jazzmasters and Jags. I had a guitar set up once that came back playing exactly the same, with what felt like the same strings (I paid for new ones), and like the guys down at Jiffy Lube had played a few songs on it.
Jay, I try to take my time with each guitar which is why I usually charge a flat fee rather than an hourly rate. I play it for a bit, ask a lot of clarifying questions about play style, tuning, hand pressure, and clean vs effected sounds, and then blend it all together to help me setup the guitar for its player. It's a lot of me thinking and pacing, but I think I do alright!
I worked on my first Jazzmaster in or around 2008 -- they just didn't pop up much in my home town. And when it came in, I noticed the string skipping issue and was completely confused by it. I didn't want to just hand it back as-is, so I did as much reading as I possibly could, considered every factor, and I'll admit it took me a couple of years after that for everything to click! But you're right, the tilt-back thing doesn't really come to mind for most folks because it just isn't routine for other guitars.
@@Puisheen that's great. Each person has their own sounds in their head, a particular way their hands interact with the guitar, all sorts of things, so a more personalized set up is worth it. Gotta start saving for my pilgrimage up north :) 👍
Here's a tip. If you want tiny pieces of steel wool embedded in your rosewood, don't tape off the fretboard when polishing the frets with steel wool.
Hey guy, you're are a real nut, and because of that I really appreciate you. I have that similar type of humor myself. It's great to see another fellow human that has this great trait. It makes life more interesting.
Hey, Mate! Just wanted to drop a bite saying cheers for all the content!
I’m modding my second JM at the mo’, albeit with pre-wired harnesses. Did install some Curtis Novaks in a Squier XII, and now in a Player LTD Ed.! Great gin and learning a lot! Cheers!
13:45 CAAARRROOOLLLLLL !!! reminds me of Charlie from It’s Always Sunny
I am so glad SOMEBODY caught that
I thought so too!! I got BOXES full of Pepe!
Love your personality Mike, and of course your stellar knowledge of the Jazzmaster!!! Subscribed to your channel!
THANX! This helps a whole lot. You touched on a few issues on my Jazzmaster setup that I was grappling with. Timing of the video was perfect! Much appreciated!
So happy it helped!
Wicked video, man. New to the channel, and am very close to picking up a my first Jazzmaster after messing around with cheaper stuff for a while (currently using an old Teisco K-56 1999 reissue), and videos like this are exactly what I'm looking for. Informative, friendly, and inspiring. I aim to be able to repair my own guitars in the future, as, like yourself, I definitely feel it would add an extra level of connection with the instrument. Gonna keep powering through your other videos. Cheers!
very cool video! the king of the hill theme song got me, i play it too when i finish a set up, also very nice playng at the end. Luthier from Argentina here. Great content!
I'm so glad someone else does that haha!
Also, dude. Sweet playing at the end! Beautiful stuff.
This is such a great video. I broke down and took my jazzfriend to a local luthier, but I'm going to come back to and reference this video in the future.
I have never heard anyone use the term "jazzfriend" before but I LOVE it, I'm going to use it all the time now. Hope it all turns out well!
Sweet jesus Mike! You absolutely nailed that King of the hill intro there. I tip my hat, sir!
You should sell Jazzmasters and Jazzmaster accessories for a livin'!
Can we get tabs for that. :)
I'm a new subscriber Mike. I'm getting my first JM next month. I ordered it last August from Chicago Music Exchange. It's the Squier CV limited edition purple w/anodized guard. I'm watching your past videos now, learning and getting pumped for when she arrives. Thanks for your help and tips. Cheers from Detroit.
Love the purple/gold models! Good choice!
Oh yeah. Beautiful playing at the end. Love the behind the bridge effect. 👍
This is one of the nicer jazzmasters I've seen looks wise
19:21 - "Auuuuggghh!" That's my Tim Taylor impression.
The finish on that jazz matches the guard perfectly... all that wit the flame neck and that might be one of the best examples of how a fender guitar cant hold it's own next to any other burst guitar
Loved it! Great work Mike! Great looking Jazzmaster too. Cheers man!
JOHN You're the best. How are you? Everything good?
@@Puisheen Good man thank you! Just waiting on this baby. Next week! Maybe I'll be able to make more videos after that settles down a bit :)
Ooooooh man I need to get myself one of those Futurama posters!
Oh yeah those metal signs were a surprise antique store find! They're around if you look for them, I keep seeing them pop up! I think there were four other variations too
Lovely instrument! If it's yours, you're one lucky man, take care of it!
Dam I love jazzmasters . Back in the 90s I had friends that played them and I didn’t get it then I bought one . How wrong I was
Thanks for the video, Mike. These will come in handy once I've got a JM.
That tortoise pickguard looks incredible! Is it original or a spitfire/lavaguards reissue? I wish modern fender tortoise looked that good
I love that I learn something from each video, Tile turns brown over time? who woulda thought.
also Boom red shim look at that
Also that is the most sultry neck I ever saw. Sorry, imma finish the video now, thanks mike
Didn't think i'd have to comment again but god bless for that king of the hill bit. Made me smile
King of the hill! Great video brudda!
Did you seriously just drop the King of the Hill theme tune in there like it ain't no thang?! Awesome vid my man!
Just discovered your UA-cam channel after following you on Instagram. Keep it up, your videos are awesome for offset guitars!
Thank you, Ryan!
You've inspired me to take apart my CV Jazzmaster this weekend! I have to ask though, are there any alternatives to the stew mac shims that you use? I don't really have access to stew mac from my part of the world and I was wondering if maybe card stock or a playing card would work. Thanks for all these videos, Mike! You're a real inspiration :)
Do you have access to a 3D printer? I designed and printed my own full-pocket shims, and I've used them in four guitars so far with excellent results. I know your comment is 3+ months old, so you probably sorted it by now, but just putting it out there, as I find it a good option.
@@somethingelsedoesmatter ohh you'd be surprised to know that the situation only got worse! How did you go about using this 3D printed shim :O
Great video dude I have look everywhere for a great video on setting up a jazzmaster and you did amazing job keep it up bud
Improper setup is so important. Unfortunately, no one bothered to read the instructions that came with the guitar. Go figure! Thanks for doing this. This is so important for using the Jazzmaster the way it was designed. Did you write the article I read called "Jazzmaster/Jaguar Setup Tips and Tricks"?? I read that a while back and I loved that someone wrote it! I'm going to be following that to a T when I set up my partsmaster!
Whenever I think about how the included manuals had all of this information, it just blows my mind. Reading them could have saved nearly 50 years of poor reception and complaints! But let's be honest, I don't read every single manual I get so I understand. But still!
Great, helpful, informative video with fun editorializations. Thx
Mike, I've been watching ur vids lately. Good info from a strait up jazzmaster guy. I got a fender usa jazzmaster neck and a warmoth body. Been compiling parts for a jazzmaster for a while. Probably going to get a bit weird in the wiring. Got the novak's because of one of your vids. If you'd be interested in talking about building a jazzmaster step by step I'd be happy to contribute my build journey.
I have plans in place to really dive into the setup and maintenance of these guitars on a subject-by-subject basis, and one of those videos surely will discuss parts builds!
Hey Mike, did you ever end up making a "high concept" step by step setup video?
The red shims are where the tones are at.
Hilarious //// the world 🌎 needs more ppl like you
Thanks Mike ... Love your videos , and the Jazzmaster
Yeah Mike. Great video and very useful info. Cheers.
we are so much better for your enthusiasm and knowledge
Thank you!
Excellent video my dude !!!! Also digging the Stohn Ramones sticker on the wall. Andrew is my dude !!!
Fantastic! Was really hoping for pickup height adjustment info but I can wait. Not seeing the helix patch info but I definitely need that patch.
Whoops I spaced on the Helix link! On it! (Also pickup height is definitely a thing I want to talk about, but the result of the setup is actually pretty much where I adjust most Jazzmasters. My own look nearly identical in height
HELIX PATCH IS UP!
Excellent information. G. (Edmonds, WA)
Hey Mike! Nice to see you doing a proper channel!! Thanks for all the helpful info over the years! I don't own a Jazzmaster, and probably won't for a while, but I'm curious about the original bridge versus the Mastery. I've seen you say that it is possible to use the original Jazzmaster bridge correctly, it just needs to be set up right. I just wanna know why the Mastery works the way it does, and why it seems so difficult for people to set up the OG bridge correctly?
The original bridge works great, as seen in this video and the previous one on the Jaguar. I think the issue isn't a matter of design or materials, but rather, education. Most people approach offsets as they would any "normal" guitar without considering the string geometry, the flow from tailpiece to tuners. Increasing bridge height by using adequate neck tilt-back is crucial, but not necessarily the first thing most techs think of when they're doing a setup.
The Mastery is my favorite aftermarket bridge, but because it's designed to remain stationary and has deep grooves for the strings, the neck tilt-back feature isn't quite as crucial because you're not having to increase downward pressure on the bridge to keep things stable. Although I'd argue that these guitars still play best with some degree of tilt-back
This Video was awesome......hey,4/7/65 I was 1
Years old , LOL
i guess im not the only one who talking to my guitar. XD
great video! Thanks Mike. Now, I know my bridge is set up wrong.. ish. How do I know? because I faffed about with it when I was 18 and didn't know what I was doing :D
I have my bridge set lower and the saddles set higher (partly as the screws were getting in the way of my low E string. ) Does this matter? I think the vibrato doesnt' bend as low, but I've never felt I'm missing out. tuning stays pretty good... any thoughts? cheers Luke
Hey Mike, great video! Safe to say you haven’t put out the full Jazzmaster setup video you mentioned at the beginning yet?
Nope, still working up to that
@@Puisheen awesome. Looking forward, your videos are great!
I have a '66 to set up. It really needs some love. Dad always strung it with flats, but I'm more a noise player than all the Wes Montgomery type clean stuff so put some Ball rounds on there, but now it's all buzzy. Thinking about that Mastery bridge upgrade, guess it's worthy of a couple hundred, being worth itself as the last pre-CBS model around $9k ... better shape than that '65 for sure.. same rhythm switch problem. just a dust bunny died in there. thanks.
NICE. I have a project Jazzy that will NEVER be finished.
Sucks, cuz I've always wanted to play one.
Great clip, really appreciate you taking the time to make these. Wanted to know what the final shim thickness that was used ? .50 or 75 ? Thx
It's been so long that I don't remember, but if you're going for the Stew Mac shims just get the three pack and figure out what works for your particular instrument.
I’m thinking about making the jump to offset, not sure I can handle the labor of love but gona start with classic vibe
This is GREAT but have you done the 0:42 L O N G version, in the end..?👍
Thank you for this episode, great job :)
Wow that's a low break angle over that bridge.
Great video! Well presented and loved the style. Thanks! Subscribed!
I have to adjust the intonation on a Jazzmaster. Unlike yours that has Philips head screws, this one needs an Allen key to adjust. Could you tell me what size Allen key would be needed on a Jazzmaster?
I watched the Jag Stand video along with this one and would like to have seen how you would do intonation on both guitars. I have a new Squier 40th Anniversary Gold edition Jazzmaster and find the Mustang bridge very perplexing as it doesn't seem to allow intonation very well because the string just slides over the top seemingly. Anyway I learned some things but would like to have seen the full setup to include intonation procedures on these bridges.
I received a J Mascis Jazzmaster yesterday and changed out the pick guard but not sure about how the pick ups should be installed or distance from the strings? Or do I just tighten them down all the way? The pick ups sit on springs. I installed them sort of loose for now. I am new to all this.
I like this video and much of your content because I am interested in Jazzmasters and think I may need to get one to access certain sounds that I want to attain and that influence me.
What about intonation? Isn't that the most important part of setup? I didn't see you touch on that at all in this video.
Hello! I have to say that in the outro you played, that is the best sounding Jazzmaster I've ever heard. What amp did you use? Any pedals? Those original pickups sound amazing, WELL DONE CAROL. I've been hankering for a Jazzmaster for years, I've only got 1 electric and it's an old beat up Gretsch I've modded the hell out of. I was wondering if you could help give me an answer - what's the best option for a vintage spec 60's Jazzmaster like this one these days? Actual 60s Jazzmasters are insanely priced over here in the UK so that's out of the question. Are any new Fenders good enough? Or do I mod a Squier Classic vibe? Or even just build my own? Just wanted to know your thoughts - again this guitar sounds like the real deal. Cheers!
Caaaaaaarollll thank you so much for the kind words. So, I use the Line 6 Helix for these videos because I live in a smallish apartment and don't want to be a jerk to the neighbors. Someday when I have more space, I'll swap over to real, loud amps for this stuff. That '65 Jazzmaster definitely sounded great though.
There are plenty of good Jazzmasters out there. US Fender is a good safe bet, and my favorites are the AVRI62s that preceded today's AV65 and AO models. Also, if you can nab a Roadworn those can be excellent with upgrades. I do love Squier Classic Vibes and they're great modding platforms, so if you just want a taste of the JM "thing" you'd do well with one of those
I have a new to me super nice Blue flower Jazzmaster, made in Japan. The guitar is my first offset so I am on learning process of how do setup and best strings and so on. Factory setup honestly is already good. Only unusual thing is the is comes from the factory with 0.9. Not great issue but I would go to .10 or maybe .11. Guitar neck has a certain breaing angle and no problem with tuning stability. I just see that the bridge is not moving that much when I use the tremolo. Maybe heavier strings will make the bridge move more?
What shims angle do You feel that is average ok on JM?
Thank You so much, I really appreciate Your informative contents on YT, IG and website. I have read them all.
Hey Marco, every guitar is different so it's difficult to point to a magic number that will solve your issues, but it seems that MOST guitars I've worked on require between .3 and .85 degrees of tiltback. And you're correct, heavier strings will always work better with these designs, though you may also be experiencing issues with the Japanese bridge which has much more shallow saddle grooves and usually a polished chrome plating on the saddles that makes them a bit more slippery. Friction is key for having the bridge move along with your vibrato.
@@Puisheen thank You I raelly appreciated Your reply. If I were in Your area I would take my guitar for a setup to You!
Hey again, Puisheen! Just got some new jazzy pickups and electronics. Was wondering if you had any thoughts on pickup height? I can't seem to find a good basline online so I thought I'd come to my favorite jazzy player for advice 👍
I plan to explore that a bit, but as you can see in some shots of this video, I like them closer to the strings as one might with any other pickup. There's definitely a 'sweet spot' as far as getting the string in the right part of the pickup's magnetic field, but I always use my ears to tell me when I'm getting that perfect blend of output and tonality.
Thank you so much for making this video! I was wondering - is there a particular rule of thumb for placing the strings on the saddles for these vintage Jazzmasters? I have an early 60s JM and pretty much eyeball where I lay the strings.
The threaded saddles are there so you can choose your own string spacing. Aim for the pole pieces and adjust to taste!
@@Puisheen Thank you!
Thanks for all your help Mike! I finally got the Shell Pink Squier Jazzmaster and have been following your tips on setting it up and it is working really well! My next step is to replace the electronics and pickups.
I am planning on getting the Curtis Novak JM-V (neck) and JM-Fat (bridge) and I want to keep the traditional Jazzmaster wiring with the Rhythm circuit but I would like to make some additions. I thought of installing a Free-Way 3X3-05 6 position toggle switch as well as a treble bleed mod and also allow the Rhythm circuit to work with the switch in order to use it with the bridge pickups as well as the neck, and neck+bridge. I reached out to Free-Way and they sent me a schematic on how to obtain positions 4, 5, and 5 from below:
Positions
1. Neck
2. Neck+Bridge in parallel
3. Bridge
4. Neck+Bridge in Series/In Phase
5. Neck+Bridge in Series/Out of Phase
6. Neck+Bridge in Parallel/Out of Phase
Do you know anyone who could help me figure out how to combine the wiring diagram sent by Free-Way with the traditional Jazzmaster wiring diagram plus having the Rhythm circuit work with the typical three pickup configurations? I have looked online and haven't found the answer and was hoping you could point me towards the right direction!
Thanks again and my next step is to level the frets and crown them!
cheers,
Jon
could you do a vid on jazzmaster action adjustment? i lowered by lowering the bridge as a whole via the two screws and i dont think thats the correct way
I believe this video to be an extremely informative piece on jazzmaster action adjustment.
Cheers!
Loving the shim reveal. Almost like a baby gender reveal with fireworks etc.
Thank you!
Another great video, Mike! I’m thinking of going a different route with strings instead the usual Power Slinkys I’m thinking DR 11-50. I’ve seen them on your Instagram. Thoughts on those versus the Ernie Balls?
-"shimmy"
-"ODB has entered the chat*
For your personal Jazzmasters do you use 11s/ what string gauge do you commonly use? Thank you for your time.
Yep, 11-50 either from DR or sets I source from Ernie Ball.
Cool guitar!
I have a one degree neck shim in my Jazzmaster. The bridge is raised, the strings don't pop out, but my bridge does not move? Should it? If so, why does it not move?
How high should I have the Mastery Bridge, if I want to also have the proper neck pitch? I'm pushing 4mm right now, and I'm still experiencing buzzing. Should I go higher?
hey mike. Great Video. Just one question i got the part to go up and down with the steel wool not side to side, but the steel wool will not scratch up the fretboard?
I mean that's all buffing really is: putting successively finer scratches on a thing until it looks smooth. 0000 steel wool is fine enough that it's not gouging the board, but rather, smoothing it out and clearing away debris.
Would you be able to do an in depth video about the cat whisker diodes In your rivers strat like where to get it and how to wire it because I'm planning out a warmoth strat I want to build and I'd like to have that in it
any tips for getting a trem arm on my American Pro Jazzmaster to stay in place? I heard maybe putting a little teflon tape around it?
The AMPRO has that screw-in arm and tape can certainly help. Personally, I vastly prefer the push-in US arm and collet, and if fit isn't great I use the "hammer trick" to get it to stay in place as I've done with all of my own guitars. Try the tape and if not, could be a good idea to buy those parts?
Is there a Zi don this channel that goes deep into intonation and bridge adjustment on a jazzmaster?
hey puisheen, great video. thanks for making it it! i bough a fender mexican jazzmaster in 2017 it was the green surf green with nitrocellulose finish. i find that when i use the trem, it cases the bridge to sink (permanently) and then i get a lot of fret buzz. can you please tell me is there anyway to stop this? is it normal for the bridge to sink when using the trem? the guitar cost 1100 euros so i am a bit disappointed. once again thank you for the video.
Get yourself some Loc Tite in blue or green and put a little on each screw. That should do the trick!
@@Puisheen thanks a million i will try that :)
So...was Leo right? I'm assuming this passed QC at the time with plenty of bridge height to play with and no one used any crazy high gauge strings, wouldn't the neck have moved over time?
Playing at the end was a pleasant surprise. This video is maybe my favorite content of yours so far. I maybe missed it, but you don't mention what shim you ended up with for the guitar?
HI ! After I setup my jazzmaster by myself. The sustain is gone . Can I fix it with new offset bridge or just find someone who can really set up...
Properly setting the trem spring tension (in conjunction with the bridge lock) is the most unique thing about setting these up. If you are here to understand how to do that, I'll save you 23 minutes by telling you that it's not discussed at all in this video.
Is there a video talking about it? I’ve haven’t heard about this but it sounds interesting
Hi Mike - I’m really enjoying your JM videos as I plan what will be my next guitar (also a big Strat fan). One thing I know for sure is that the JM I buy will have a proper rhythm circuit - so, my question is whether the new Am Pro II and its pickups are amenable to modification of its serial circuit to a proper rhythm circuit. Or......is it best to get an American Original (even though I don’t particularly like neck binding). Thanks so much. Take care.
Oh the Pro IIs are an easy swap. Personally, I'd take an older AVRI62 over an AO any time
@@Puisheen Thanks for your reply - those ‘62 AVRIs are rare beasts but the search will keep me occupied while I keep playing my 4 Strats! One last question - I find Strats to be perfectly balanced when played sat down (as I do); are JMs as well balanced? Thanks so much! Subscription earned, by the way!
@@kcd2120 I find offsets far more well-balanced sitting down, which was certainly an intentional part of the design.
Great info! If this is only the primer, can't wait for the other video!! Helix link is missing btw. Love your content! 💚💚💚
lol whoops I spaced on the Helix link. ON IT
HELIX PATCH IS UP!
Puisheen YEAAA! Just ordered a second hand HX Stomp, curious to check out your presets!!
Thank you so much for sharing your work mike! Is that ok using the still wool with out protecting the wood of the fretboard? I saw before using masking tape. Thank you and keep it going please!
I noticed you adjusted the neck while disassembled. Will the amount of relief change once under string tension?
Of course! That's the only way to make changes with the heel adjustment. After doing it for so many years, you start to get a feel for what a neck needs based on visual cues. I usually get it sorted on the first try.
With my jazzmaster set up with lowish action the E strings hit the screws on the tremolo. Have you seen this and how can it be addressed? I’m playing a Squire 60s classic vibe.
Also, I’d like to upgrade to an AVRI tremolo but I can’t find one for a lefty. Do you have any leads on one or even know the part number?
Yeah that happens with reissue vibratos all the time, the domed pivot plate mounting screws are rounder and taller than they used to be. Often you can get more clearance by setting the thing up with shims to pitch back the neck, raising the bridge, but sometimes not. If it's too difficult, I'll often remove those screws and flip them upside down so the head sits under the pivot plate, which usually solves the problem.
When do you adjust the intonation? That's the only thing I feel I can't do at home, but the rest seemed feasible. Also, how did you fix the nut issue, just curious!
I do that after everything else, but before play testing. To properly intonate a guitar, it's best to use brand new, unplayed strings because the moment you start playing the frets form little divots on the bottom of the strings, and that can make intonation far less precise.
I'm totally blanking on the nut issue in this vid, what was it again?
@@Puisheen the nut slot was too narrow for the string and it was catching. Looked like even some graphite couldn’t fix it so just curious about how one would even begin to open up the string slot
@@soapboxracer182 Oh I just recut it