Fender Villager: Distinct 12-String Jangle

Introduction to the Fender Villager 12-String Guitar

The Fender Villager 12-string guitar has a unique history in the Fender acoustic lineup. First introduced in 1964, it was one of Fender’s early forays into the acoustic 12-string market.

The Villager has several distinctive features that set it apart from other 12-string acoustics. It has a shallow, comfortable "wedge" style body shape that allows easy upper fret access. The top is solid Sitka spruce, with mahogany back and sides, giving it a crisp, balanced tone. The 25.5" scale mahogany neck has a nut width of 1 11/16", providing ample room for fingerpicking.

Unlike many 12-strings, the Villager has Fender’s trademark dual-action truss rod for increased neck stability. It also utilizes a distinctive "X"-style bracing pattern under the top. This gives excellent resonance while preventing the top from bellying under the high tension of a 12-string bridge.

Compared to similar era 12-strings like the Gibson B-25 or Guild F-212, the Villager has a slightly brighter, more focused tone. Its comfortable body size and excellent upper fret access also give it an edge over some traditional style 12-strings. While not as iconic as the Rickenbacker 360, the Fender Villager occupies an important place in 12-string history.

Did Fender Ever Make a 12-String Telecaster?

Fender has a long history with the electric 12-string guitar, producing models like the Electric XII in the 1960s and the Jaguar 12-string in the 1990s. However, despite Fender’s expertise with the Telecaster model, there is no evidence that the company ever mass produced a 12-string version of this iconic guitar.

Some prototypes and extremely limited edition Telecasters with 12 strings may have been created over the years, but none seem to have made it into full scale production. The unique construction challenges posed by 12-string electric guitars likely made Fender hesitant to offer a 12-string Telecaster option.

Acoustic 12-string guitars have octave pairs of strings that are tuned to the same note, providing a chorus-like effect when strummed. But on an electric 12-string, the doubled strings are tuned an octave apart, delivering more of an echo effect and increased sustain. The strings on an electric 12 are also thinner than an acoustic, allowing for easier fretting and bending.

While Fender succeeded in making other quality electric 12-string models, the Telecaster’s bolt-on neck design presented difficulties in providing the proper tension across 12 strings. The increased string tension on a 12-string also meant potential neck bowing issues. In the end, Fender likely determined the Telecaster blueprint was not optimized for a 12-string version.

What 12-String Guitar Did John Denver Play?

John Denver was known for his smooth, mellow folk and country songs like "Take Me Home, Country Roads" and "Annie’s Song." His music often featured the distinctive, chiming sound of a 12-string guitar.

Denver favored Martin guitars, especially the D-28 12-string model. In 1964, at age 20, Denver bought a 1964 Martin D-28 12-string. This specific guitar can be seen on the covers of many of his albums and he played it at concerts throughout his career.

The 1964 Martin D-28 12-string became an iconic part of Denver’s image and sound. The jangly, ringing tone of the 12-string provided a lush bed of sound underneath Denver’s warm vocals. Songs like "Leaving on a Jet Plane," "Rocky Mountain High," and "Sunshine on My Shoulders" exemplified this pleasing 12-string style.

Denver’s embrace of the 12-string sound helped spur interest in the instrument. Many aspiring folk and pop musicians were inspired to pick up a 12-string guitar after hearing Denver’s records. His popularity boosted sales of models like the Martin D-12 and Gibson B-25. Today, Denver is still closely associated with the 12-string guitar and its signature chime lives on in his timeless music.

Famous 12-String Guitar Players and Their Guitars

The 12-string guitar has been used by many famous guitarists across musical genres. Here are some notable players and the models they used to shape their iconic sounds:

Lead Belly – One of the earliest blues musicians to adopt the 12-string guitar. Lead Belly often played a Stella 12-string acoustic, known for its booming and percussive sound. His virtuosic 12-string blues picking and singing brought the instrument to wider popularity.

Pete Seeger – A pioneer of American folk music, Pete Seeger used a long-scale Mexican 12-string guitar built by Manuel Cedano. With its fuller sound, Seeger’s 12-string projection allowed him to lead singalongs with crowds of thousands. His prolific songwriting expanded the 12-string repertoire.

Roger McGuinn – As guitarist for The Byrds, Roger McGuinn popularized the jangly, chiming sound of the Rickenbacker 360 electric 12-string. Hits like "Mr. Tambourine Man" and "Turn, Turn, Turn" exemplified McGuinn’s influential 12-string style.

George Harrison – With The Beatles, Harrison adopted the Rickenbacker 360 after being inspired by Roger McGuinn’s playing. Harrison’s use of the 12-string on tracks like "A Hard Day’s Night" and "Ticket to Ride" helped ingrain its signature sound into pop music forever.

Alex Lifeson – Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson has used various 12-string models, like the Gibson EDS-1275 double-neck. His intricate 12-string parts added new textures and depth to the band’s progressive hard rock sound.

From blues to folk and rock, these players expanded the 12-string guitar’s reach and cemented its importance across musical genres. Their signature licks, tones, and songs spotlight the versatility that a 12-string can bring.

Why Do Mexicans Use 12-String Guitars?

The 12-string guitar has deep cultural roots in traditional Mexican music. Styles like mariachi and conjunto rely heavily on the fuller, more resonant sound that a 12-string guitar provides for accompaniment.

In a mariachi band, the vihuela and guitarron provide the rhythmic foundation. The vihuela is a small rounded-back 12-string guitar tuned like a regular 6-string. Adding those extra octave string courses allows the vihuela to cut through the mix with a sharp, percussive tone. The contrast between the crisp vihuela rhythms and the bassy drone of the guitarron is an essential part of the mariachi ensemble.

Beyond mariachi, the bajo sexto is another type of Mexican 12-string guitar. As the name implies, it is tuned a sixth below a regular guitar. With its longer scale length and 12 deeper-sounding strings, the bajo sexto can provide incredibly full chords and bass lines. This makes it ideal for styles like conjunto and tejano music. The bajo sexto locks in with the button accordion to form the rhythmic basis for the whole band.

No discussion of iconic Mexican 12-string players can omit Narciso Martinez. Known as the "Father of Conjunto Music", Martinez pioneered the bajo sexto and laid the groundwork for how it is played. His use of complex counterpoint lines weaving around the accordion melodies came to define the conjunto style. Other influential Mexican 12-string guitarists include Max Baca of Los Texmaniacs and Juan Jimenez of the Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan. Their mastery of the vihuela and bajo sexto spotlight why Mexican music relies so heavily on the fuller tones of the 12-string guitar.

Buying Guide for the Fender Villager 12-String

When purchasing a Fender Villager 12-string, there are a few key features to look for regarding playability and sound quality:

• Body Shape/Depth – The Villager has a unique "wedge" shaped body that is slimmer at the top bout and fuller at the bottom. This contour helps with comfort and also projects the sound well. Look for a body depth that feels comfortable for you.

• Neck Profile – Vintage Villagers tend to have slim, fast-playing necks. The modern reissues aim to recreate this feel. Make sure the neck width, thickness and radius suits your playing style.

• Nut Width – With 12 strings the nut width needs to accommodate the extra strings while still being playable. Around 1 21/32" to 1 45/64" tends to work well. Wider can get too big for some hands.

• Fretboard Radius – Vintage Villagers were fairly flat (7.25" to 9.5"). The new models use a 9.5" radius. If you prefer a flatter feel, look for an original 60s/70s model.

• Tonewoods – Solid spruce tops with mahogany or rosewood backs and sides generally sound the best. The materials affect the tone and resonance.

When it comes to vintage vs. modern Villager 12-strings, the new reissues aim to recreate the look, feel and tone of the 60s models using modern manufacturing techniques. The vintage ones will show more wear but may have a more aged tone.

Pricing on the used market can vary quite a bit depending on condition. Expect to pay $400-$600 for a decent condition vintage Villager, or up to $1500-$3000 for one in excellent shape. The new Fender reissues retail around $600-$800.

The best places to find Fender Villager 12-strings are sites like Reverb, eBay, and Craigslist. You can also check local music stores, guitar shops and pawn shops. Just be sure to closely inspect condition before purchasing.

Maintenance Tips for Your Fender Villager 12-String

Keeping your 12-string guitar in optimal playing condition requires some special care and maintenance compared to a standard 6-string. Here are some essential tips for the Fender Villager 12-string owner:

String Changing and Setups

• Use a proper 12-string set with lighter gauge wound and plain strings to balance tension. Sets with a wound G course work well. Brands like D’Addario and Ernie Ball make 12-string sets.

• Stagger your string changing – replace plain strings first, then wound strings a few weeks later to allow the neck to adjust gradually.

• Consider getting a professional setup yearly to check neck relief and bridge height. The extra tension can bend the neck over time.

• Lubricate the nut and bridge with graphite for smoother tuning and to prevent binding.

Storage and Humidifying

• Keep the Villager in a hard case with a humidifier to prevent drying out. The solid spruce top is prone to cracking without enough humidity.

• 45-55% relative humidity is ideal. Use a humidifier with a hygrometer and keep the guitar away from heaters or AC vents.

• Wipe down the strings after playing to prevent corrosion from sweat and oils.

Dealing with Neck Tension

• Tension from the extra strings can cause the neck to bow over time. Tighten the truss rod gradually if you see buzzing on lower frets.

• Consider lighter string gauges and have a tech check the neck relief yearly. The Fender adjustable truss rod helps counteract 12-string tension.

• Some warping along the length of the neck is normal. As long as action is good across the fretboard, some relief in the upbow is fine.

Proper care and maintenance will keep your Villager sounding its best for years. Invest in quality gear like cases and use common sense humidity control.

Who Is This Guitar Ideal For?

The Fender Villager 12-string is a great option for certain players and musical styles where the jangly, resonant tones of a 12-string can really shine.

Fingerstyle Players

Fingerstyle guitarists who incorporate alternating bass lines, arpeggios, and melodies will appreciate the Villager’s full, ringing sound. The 12-string expands the range and textures possible.

Singer-Songwriters

For solo singer-songwriters, the Villager provides excellent rhythm accompaniment with a rich, strummed chord voicing. The volume and sustain fills out the sound for vocalists.

Folk, Country, and Pop Players

If you play genres like folk, country, or classic pop/rock where 12-strings were commonly used, the Villager is an ideal fit. The bright, chiming tones work perfectly to evoke the sounds of the 60s and 70s.

Intermediate to Advanced Players

Due to the increased string tension and finger width required, the Villager 12-string performs best in the hands of intermediate to advanced players. Beginners may struggle with complex chord shapes and fretting all 6 courses cleanly.

Pros

• Comfortable wedge-shaped body style
• Quality solid spruce top provides excellent resonance
• Innovative Fender take on 12-string design
• Projects very well unplugged or amplified

Cons

• High string tension can cause tuning and intonation issues
• Wider neck and added bulk tough for smaller hands
• Very bright/jangly tone may not suit all players
• Requires more maintenance and neck adjustments

Related Gear

When buying or using a 12-string guitar like the Fender Villager, there are some accessories and additional gear that can really enhance the experience.

Recommended Accessories

• Strings: Investing in a quality set of 12-string strings is crucial, as they need to withstand the extra tension. Brands like D’Addario, Ernie Ball, and Martin make good dedicated 12-string sets. Opt for a lighter gauge like .011-.052 to start.
• Strap: A wider strap with good padding helps balance the guitar’s weight and tension on your shoulders. Levy’s and Taylor make excellent 12-string straps.
• Case: A hard case with a humidifier is ideal to protect your Villager from damage. The molded shape keeps it secure, while the humidifier prevents cracks.
• Capo: A 12-string compatible capo like the Shubb Deluxe helps you transpose while barring all strings.
• Tuner: A clip-on tuner like the Snark SN-8 provides fast, accurate tuning for your 12 doubled strings.

YouTube Demos

• Fender Villager 12-String Demo – Hear the jangly, resonant tone of the Villager in action.

• Fender Villager vs Martin D-12 Shootout – Side-by-side comparison of two great 12-strings.

• How to String a 12-String Guitar – Step-by-step tutorial for changing 12-string sets.

Watching videos like these helps you get a sense of the Villager’s sound, and learn proper 12-string techniques.

Conclusion

The Fender Villager 12-string occupies a unique place in guitar history thanks to its distinctive wedge-shaped body and innovative take on 12-string construction. While it may not be as instantly recognizable as the Martin D-28 or Rickenbacker 360, the Villager has cultivated a passionate following of players who appreciate its smooth playability, balanced tone, and ability to shine in a variety of musical genres.

When played, the Villager reveals a rich, resonant voice that belies its relatively affordable price point. The solid spruce top and quality tonewoods give it a crisp, articulate sound with plenty of volume and sustain. While some players may find the 12-string tension too much, those who embrace it will be rewarded with the Villager’s jangly, chorusing tones. Its comfortable body shape and slick neck also make prolonged playing sessions a joy.

For fingerstyle accompaniment, country-flavored strumming, or adding a new dimension to your songwriting, the Fender Villager 12-string is a smart choice. Players looking to dip their toes into 12-string waters would do well to start with the Villager before considering pricier options. Ultimately, it exemplifies Fender’s ability to honor the past while pushing acoustic guitar design forward. Any guitarist searching for their next inspiring instrument would do well to plug in and play a Villager.