Fender Japan Introduces the Starmaster: A Controversial Jazzmaster/Starcaster Fusion
Fender Japan has taken a bold step away from its usual quirky Squier Paranormal series by launching a striking new model that combines two of its iconic offset designs.Enter the Starmaster, a guitar that draws inspiration from both the Jazzmaster and the Starcaster, the latter of wich has seen a revival in popularity in recent years.
while the concept of the Starmaster is tantalizing—imagine a Thinline Jazzmaster body adorned with Starcaster features—Fender Japan has chosen a different path.This decision may not sit well with everyone, as the company has opted to feature the notoriously polarizing oversized Starcaster headstock on a Jazzmaster body.
The outcome is a Jazzmaster that appears quite unconventional, with a look that some might describe as awkwardly disproportionate. The visual impact of this design choice is sure to spark debate among guitar enthusiasts.
Design features and Unique Aesthetics
Despite its unconventional appearance, the Starmaster could be one of those designs that grows on you over time. While it may not align with everyone’s vision for a Jazzmaster/Starcaster hybrid, there’s an undeniable charm to its unique aesthetic that might eventually win over skeptics.
Beyond the distinctive headstock, Fender Japan has made intriguing modifications to the Jazzmaster body itself. The Starmaster features a unique stepped upper bout bevel, creating a striking contrast with the rest of the guitar’s finish. This design element is not something typically found on standard Jazzmasters,evoking a sporty vibe reminiscent of Fender’s comments about the American ultra II range,which notably replaced the Jazzmaster with the Meteora.
However, this is not merely a repurposed Ultra II Jazzmaster body. Fender Japan clarifies that the design is a continuation of the Starcaster’s headstock motif, which also incorporates the same two-step bevel feature.
Specifications and Availability
In terms of specifications,the Starmaster retains the classic Jazzmaster body shape and is offered in several eye-catching colors,including Jupiter Blue,Candy Apple Red,and Black,which features a sleek silver accent. For those who appreciate bold choices, it is indeed also available in the striking Antigua finish.
The guitar is constructed from an alder body,complemented by a U-shaped maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard with a 9.5” radius and 22 medium jumbo frets. The electronics include Hybrid II Custom Voiced single-coil pickups, wired to a traditional Jazzmaster control layout, giving it the familiar feel of a classic Jazzmaster—albeit with a quirky twist.
Additionally, the Starmaster showcases a brand-new headstock decal that proudly displays its model name. While this launch is limited,it raises the question: could this be the begining of a new Starmaster series? Only time will tell,but if this unique offset gains traction,who knows what the future holds.
The Fender made in Japan Limited Starmaster is priced at 192,500 Japanese Yen, approximately $1,290. For more details, visit Fender Japan’s official website.
