FWIW, here are my initial impressions. Might not mean much to offset veterans, but it might help people like me shopping for their first offset right now.
1) I like the 3-way pickup switch for ease of use and the coil split switch that references the style of switches found on classic Jags.
2) I know there’s less chrome on this model, but the design works for me.
3) This guitar wasn’t even on my radar initially because of the humbucker on the bridge. I just assumed it would be hot and designed for heavier music. I’m glad I gave it a chance, because I find whether it is split or fully engaged it gives me access to the surfy tones I was looking for. In some uses, it almost seems to act like a boost. Reading up on Alnico 3’s it makes sense that Fender chose this humbucker for the Jag. I know their marketing said something to the effect of modern approach with a classic voice, and I feel like they delivered on that promise.
4) Bridge works. Don’t think I’ll need to replace it.
5) 9.5 radius was essential for me. I just didn’t enjoy bends on the 7.5s I tried.
6) Body is heavy. Not a complaint. Just an observation.
7) Really like the satin neck. My other two guitars have glossy finishes, so this is a nice change of pace.
Didn’t find the fret edges rough as some complained.9) Quality control not perfect necessarily. Some of the fret holes seemed to be cut deeper than the fret depth. But not a deal breaker for me at this price point. Overall, it was finished better than the Squier Classic Vibe I was comparing it too.
10) Neck pickup to my ear sounded similar to neck on Squier with rhythm switch activated. Seems like Fender really tried to cover the main tones of a Jaguar despite the different switch and pickup system. Others might not agree (and I didn’t compare with more expensive models), but it satisfies my needs.
Long post, not sure who will read the whole thing, but happy to be part of the offset club.
