If you’re wondering if Fender JV Modified guitars are worth it or not, don’t worry – you’ve come to the right place! In today’s article, we’re going to take a very close look on these brand new models announced recently by Fender. They seem like excellent guitars, but are they actually worth the money?
The truth is that all new Fender JV Modified Series guitars offer a really high quality. Although they’re not cheap, they’re definitely worth the money. Guitarists who are searching for good and reliable Strats and Telecasters will definitely be satisfied with the JV Series.
Let’s dive deeper with research to find out what makes these guitars so special. Of course, you’ll be able to hear a few sound demos as well – both official and unofficial. Hopefully, today’s review will help you to understand if you should add one of these models to your own guitar collection.
About Fender JV Modified Series Guitars
Fender launched this new series of MIJ guitar in early 2022. All of these models are heavily inspired by some of the vintage reissues from the ’80s. Nevertheless, the manufacturer decided to equip these guitars with some new features as well, so it’s a perfect mix of vintage and modern approach to making guitars.
The new JV Modified Series consists of four brand new models – two interesting Strats (’50s and ’60s) and two really cool Telecasters (’50s and ’60s). Before you jump in into reading more about each one of these models, here’s the official sound demo.
All of these guitars feature basswood bodies and a push-pull control on the tone control which gives you an access to even more tonal possibilities. This is an absolute game-changer, because it’s not available in similar guitars offered by Fender at this price level.
Another relevant thing to mention is that all of these guitars have thick V-shaped maple necks. This is really important, because the vast majority of guitars manufactured by Fender right now features the C-shaped necks, which have a bit different feel.
In addition, the necks of JV Modified Series guitars have a satin finish, which is also a great alternative from gloss (and very often sticky) necks available in various different Fender guitars.
Lastly, they’re all available in a few really cool color versions. Personally, I really enjoy the look of the ’50s Telecaster – there’s something really interesting about the golden pickguard and the maple neck. Nevertheless, all of these guitars look awesome and I’m sure that you’ll agree with that statement!
Let’s have a close look at each one of these models.
1. Fender JV Modified Series ’50s Stratocaster (HSS)
The ’50s Strat features a bridge humbucker, so it definitely offers a more punchy tone. To be honest, you can never go wrong with a 2-Tone Sunburst Strat that has a maple neck with a maple fretboard. A classic look and a really punchy tone – who needs anything else? Surely, it will be a great choice for all lovers of classic rock.
Here’s the sound demo.
2. Fender JV Modified Series ’60s Stratocaster (SSS)
In comparison with the previous Stratocaster, this particular model features a classic Strat pickup setting – three single-coil pickups. And to be honest – it sounds and looks absolutely fantastic. I’m sure that any lover of vintage tones will be satisfied with the overall quality of this guitar.
Here’s the sound demo.
3. Fender JV Modified Series ’50s Telecaster
A truly beautiful Telecaster that features the classic ‘Tele Twang’. Personally, this guitar really reminds me of a Squier 40th Anniversary Telecaster which was also announced earlier this week. Nevertheless, the JV Modified ’50s Fender offers even better quality. I’m sure that all lovers of Telecasters will be satisfied with the quality of that guitar!
Here’s the sound demo.
4. Fender JV Modified Series ’60s Custom Telecaster
Another incredible guitar! This particular model is available in a Firemist Gold color, which looks absolutely stunning. In addition, there’s also some binding on the body so this Tele is definitely really eye-catching. And of course, it sounds awesome too. I’m sure that all of you are going to love it.
Here’s the sound demo.
Who Are These Guitars For?
Brand new Fender guitars from this series will be ideal for all guitarists who are looking for a reliable gear suitable for gigging and studio recordings. To be honest, the JV Modified Series Fenders can be used by all-level guitarists. Both amateurs and more intermediate players won’t be disappointed!
In addition, they are also a great alternative to well known Mexican-made guitars from Vintera Series and more advanced American-made guitars from American Professional Series.
Considering how versatile the Stratocasters and Telecasters are, these guitars will be perfect for almost all genres. So whether you’re into indie, blues, rock or country music, choosing one of the Fender JV Modified Series guitars will be an excellent choice.
My Thoughts on JV Modified Series
I have to admit that I really enjoy the fact that Fender decided to release these guitars this year. I have always been a fan of the Japanese quality. Undoubtedly, these guitars seem to be one of the most interesting new guitars announced by Fender in the last few years.
Would I add one of these axes to my own collection? Yes, absolutely! It’s really tough to pick just one model, because all four JV Modified Series guitars are awesome. So I guess I’d have to get all of them.
Honestly, Fender did a fantastic job and they managed to create a truly unique series of guitars. I have no hesitation in recommending these Strats and Telecasters to anyone who’s looking for a high quality and reliable gear.
Still, I don’t like the fact that Fender didn’t decide to create a JV Modified Jazzmaster, Jaguar or Mustang. That would be so cool to see some offset guitars as a part of this brand new collection!
Are There Any Alternatives?
If you don’t like any of the JV Modified guitars listed above, don’t worry – there’s a lot of different (and cheaper) guitars out there!
Firstly, you should definitely check out the Squier Classic Vibe Series I recently reviewed the Squier CV Stratocaster and Squier CV Telecaster, so make sure to check out these reviews if you’re interested. Although they don’t have a Fender logo on the headstock, they still offer a very good quality.
If you’re searching for something way cheaper, you should also definitely check out the Squier Affinity Series. These guitars are obviously not as good as the JV Modified Series, but they are really good for beginners. And what’s important, they’re a few times less expensive! As an example, here’s my review of Squier Affinity Stratocaster.
Nevertheless, the JV Modified Series Fenders are one-of-a-kind. If they caught your attention but you can’t afford them right now, I highly recommend saving up a bit more on them instead of getting cheaper alternatives. These guitars are really worth and they definitely won’t disappoint you!
FAQ
Why are Japanese Fenders so good?
Fenders made in Japan offer a very high quality and attention to detail. These instruments are always made with a thorough precision and they are often described as some of the best guitars in the world.
Why are some Fenders made in Japan?
Back in the days, Fender decided to move their manufacturing facilities to Japan in order to save up on costs while maintaining the same product quality as in the US. What’s important, they definitely managed to achieve that – some of the Japanese Fenders are often comparable with much more expensive American-made Fenders.
Is Fender JV Modified Series better than Fender Vintera Series?
Both Fender JV Modified and Fender Vintera Series feature a really high quality. These guitars are perfect not only for beginners, but also for more advanced musicians who are often gigging and recording in studios.
I think that it all comes down to your own personal preference. All JV Modified guitars have V-shaped necks, while most of the Vintera guitars have C-shaped necks. So the overall feel of these guitars is a bit different.
In addition, the pricing and quality of these guitars is pretty similar, so it’s really tough to pick a clear winner of this battle. But in the end, you can always get both of them!
Summary
As you can see, the JV Modified Series by Fender is a really interesting option for a lot of guitarists. I’m sure that this series will become really popular and respected in the coming months. On the other hand, I’m unhappy that Fender didn’t decide to create a JV Modified Jazzmaster or Jaguar – that would be awesome!
What do you think about Fender JV Modified Series? Would you add one of these Stratocasters or Telecasters to your own guitar collection? Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, I’m really interested to hear what you think!
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