What is an Offset Guitar? Understanding the Unique Body Shape
Offset guitars are characterized by their asymmetrical, non-traditional body shape. This type of electric guitar design originated in the late 1950s with Leo Fender and the Fender company.
Fender was looking to innovate and improve upon their existing guitar models like the Telecaster and Stratocaster. They wanted to create a more ergonomic and comfortable guitar design. This led to the creation of the Jazzmaster in 1958, followed by the Jaguar in 1962 – Fender’s first "offset" guitar models.
The offset shape refers to the asymmetrical upper horn and waist contours. Unlike a Strat or Les Paul with symmetrical upper and lower bouts, offset guitars have an extended upper horn that offsets the other half of the guitar body. This offset design provides several key benefits:
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Improved comfort and balance – The offset upper horn shifts more weight towards the player’s body and makes playing in a strap position more balanced and natural.
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Better access to higher frets – The shorter 24" scale length compared to Fender’s 25.5" models enables easier fretting and soloing in the upper registers.
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Unique style and visual appeal – The offset shape stands out from more traditional guitar silhouettes and became a symbol of nonconformist cool.
The offset body construction also impacts the guitar’s tone and resonance. The reduced sustain and increased brightness of Jazzmasters and Jaguars contributed to their characteristic surf rock and indie/alt rock tones.
Fender Jazzmaster
The Fender Jazzmaster is one of the most iconic offset guitar models. First introduced in 1958, it was Fender’s flagship instrument, intended to appeal to jazz guitarists with its sophisticated looks and rich, warm tone.
Some standout features of the original Jazzmaster include its offset waist double-cutaway body shape, 25.5" scale length, and dual single-coil pickups with innovative switching that allows for lead and rhythm tones. The lead circuit uses brighter tone caps for cutting lead lines, while the rhythm circuit has a darker, warmer sound for comping.
With its distinctive jangly tone, the Jazzmaster became popular with surf rock guitarists in the 1960s. Later, it was embraced by indie and alternative rockers, becoming a staple instrument for sonic pioneers like J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr and Elvis Costello.
J Mascis is closely associated with Fender Jazzmasters, using them to create Dinosaur Jr’s huge, effects-drenched guitar sounds. His energetic, melodic playing highlights the Jazzmaster’s chime and sustain.
Other notable Jazzmaster players are Sonic Youth’s Lee Ranaldo and Thurston Moore, who used Jazzmasters to craft their avant-garde noise rock tones. Elvis Costello’s rhythmically dynamic Jazzmaster work is featured on many of his early new wave albums.
In more recent years, Fender has released updated versions of the Jazzmaster with modern features. These include the Classic Player and American Professional lines, which blend vintage aesthetics with contemporary playability and reliability.
Fender Jaguar
The Fender Jaguar was introduced in 1962 as an upgrade from the Jazzmaster. It has a shorter 24" scale length compared to the Jazzmaster’s 25.5", along with a number of unique features.
The Jaguar has a similar offset waist body shape as the Jazzmaster, but the electronics and controls set it apart. It has a lead and rhythm pickup circuit controlled by a slider switch. The lead circuit gives the neck pickup a brighter tone, while the rhythm circuit has a bassier, warmer sound from the neck and bridge pickups wired in parallel.
The Jaguar also has a unique tremolo system that is less prone to issues than the Jazzmaster’s floating tremolo bridge. The tremolo arm sits parallel to the body and has a "click" plate that keeps it stable.
Some famous Jaguar players that utilized its distinct sound include:
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Kurt Cobain – The Nirvana frontman used Jaguars because of their unique tones and short scale length. His modified blue Jaguar was a key part of the Nevermind album’s sound.
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John Frusciante – The guitarist played Jaguars throughout his time in the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He favored their mellower rhythm circuit tone.
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Johnny Marr – Known for using a Jaguar with The Smiths in the 1980s. He appreciated the Jaguar’s clean sound and functionality.
The Jaguar found popularity in alternative rock thanks to guitarists like these seeking its idiosyncratic tones and playability compared to the Stratocaster and Telecaster. The shorter scale and specialized switching give the Jaguar a truly unique voice.
Other Offset Models
Fender has produced several other offset models over the years, often aimed at student guitarists or lower price points. The Mustang and Duo-Sonic are two short-scale offset models that have more budget-friendly components but retain the offset style and sound.
The Mustang has a 24" scale length and two single-coil pickups, providing bright, snappy tones perfect for garage rock. The Duo-Sonic is a 22.5” scale model with a single-coil pickup in the bridge or neck position for classic surf and indie rock tones. Both are great starter offsets before moving up to a Jazzmaster or Jaguar.
Beyond Fender, other companies have produced their own takes on the offset guitar body shape and design. G&L‘s Doheny model has a Leo Fender-designed pickup and electronics for a vintage offset tone. Reverend guitars like the Jetstream offer offset styling with modern appointments like a Wilkinson tremolo.
Squier‘s Paranormal series includes affordable offset models like the Jazzmaster and Jaguar with contemporary features. There are lots of options for players who want the offset look and feel without paying Fender prices.
Pickups in Offset Guitars
Offset guitars feature a range of single-coil and humbucker pickups to produce a variety of tones.
The Fender Jazzmaster is equipped with two single-coil Jazzmaster pickups. These have a brighter, more biting tone compared to traditional single-coils. The Jaguar has similar single-coil pickups with a slightly fuller voicing. Some offset models like the Mustang use standard Stratocaster or P-90 style single-coils.
Humbuckers can also be found on some offset guitars, providing thicker distortion and output. Fender’s Blacktop and Classic Player Jazzmaster models have dual humbuckers, while the Jaguar HH has a pair of hot humbuckers.
Beyond the stock pickups, there are many boutique manufacturers that produce aftermarket pickups for offsets. Popular options include Lollar, Curtis Novak, Creamery, and Mojotone pickups. These allow offset players to customize their tone.
Some offsets also have unique switching that adds tonal variety. The Jazzmaster’s lead/rhythm circuits allow the pickups to be paired in series or parallel. The Jaguar’s switching lets each pickup be used independently. These circuits give offsets more sonic flexibility.
Offsets Across Musical Genres
The offset guitar shape became popular very early on in surf rock music starting in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Groups like The Ventures and The Surfaris embraced the Jazzmaster and Jaguar for their smooth, fluid tone that was perfect for surf rock’s spring reverb-drenched sound.
In the 1980s and 90s, offset guitars saw a revival thanks to alternative and indie rock bands. Sonic Youth was one of the most famous early adopters of offset guitars, particularly the Jazzmaster. Guitarists Thurston Moore and Lee Ranaldo used Jazzmasters to create Sonic Youth’s signature noise rock tones. The edgy, bright sound of the Jazzmaster’s single coil pickups cut through layers of distortion beautifully.
Other seminal indie bands like Dinosaur Jr and Pixies also utilized Jazzmasters and Jaguars to craft their raw, grungy guitar tones. Dinosaur Jr’s J Mascis is an icon of offset guitar playing. His use of the Jazzmaster with a huge amounts of distortion and feedback became synonymous with the alt-rock sound.
Later in the 90s, offset guitars became hugely popular in mainstream rock as well. Kurt Cobain of Nirvana famously used Fender Jaguars due to their short scale and ease of play. The Jaguar’s smooth tone complemented Nirvana’s quiet/loud dynamic beautifully. Cobain’s use of the previously obscure Jaguar model brought offset guitars to the attention of rock guitarists worldwide.
Choosing the Best Offset Guitar for You
When choosing an offset guitar, there are several factors to consider:
Body Shape and Scale Length
The offset body shape itself, with its asymmetrical upper and lower horns, can impact playability and comfort. Shorter scale lengths, like those on Jaguars and Mustangs, may be better for smaller hands. The Jazzmaster’s longer 25.5" scale length provides more tension and stability for aggressive playing styles.
Pickup Configuration
Single coil pickups generally offer a brighter, punchier tone while humbuckers provide a thicker, warmer sound. Certain models have unique pickup wiring as well – Jaguars have separate lead and rhythm circuits, for example. Consider the tone you want when evaluating pickup types.
Hardware and Components
Examine the bridge, nut, tuners, and other hardware pieces for quality and durability. Look for quality pots, switches, and electronic components. Research the reputation of the guitar’s pickups as well. Higher end models typically use upgraded parts and electronics.
Budget and Price Range
Affordable Offset Models: Squier, G&L Tribute, Fender Player Series. $400-$800 range. Good quality and value. May require some setup tweaks.
Mid-Range Offsets: Fender American Professional, G&L Fullerton, Reverend. $1000-$1500. Excellent craftsmanship and components. Versatile and gig-worthy instruments.
High-End Offsets: Fender Custom Shop, boutique brands. $2000+. Top notch build, electronics, and attention to detail. Investment-grade instruments.
Playing Style and Experience Level
Beginners: Squier, lower-end Fender, and used models. Focus on playability and comfort over boutique appeal.
Intermediate Players: Fender Player and American series, G&L Tribute/Fullerton, Reverend. Quality instruments that inspire progression.
Advanced Players: Boutique brands, custom options, vintage. Seek specific tone/feel for refined playing.
Consider your budget, experience, and tonal needs. Test instruments in person whenever possible. An offset guitar should motivate and inspire your playing.
Setting Up and Maintaining an Offset Guitar
Proper setup and maintenance is key to getting the most out of your offset guitar. Here are some tips for optimizing playability:
Bridge and Tremolo Adjustments
The bridge and tremolo system on an offset requires careful setup, especially if it’s a floating tremolo. Adjust the tremolo claw in the back cavity so the bridge sits parallel to the body. Set the tremolo arm tension so the bridge returns to pitch after use. Lubricate the bridge saddles, nut, and knife edges with graphite for smooth tremolo function.
Tuning Stability
Tuning issues are common on offsets. Try a graphite nut, quality tuners, and proper string winding technique. Stretch strings thoroughly before playing. Add more tremolo claw spring tension or deck the tremolo to increase stability. Avoid extreme tremolo use that can knock the guitar out of tune.
Neck Relief and Action
Measure neck relief with a feeler gauge and adjust truss rod accordingly. Generally aim for .010" relief but adjust to preference. Set saddle height so strings have just a bit of fret buzz when fretted, then raise slightly until notes cleanly fret. The Jaguar’s shorter scale length usually requires higher action compared to a Strat or Tele.
Iconic Offset Guitar Players
Kurt Cobain and the Fender Jaguar
Kurt Cobain of Nirvana famously played Fender Jaguar guitars during the band’s meteoric rise in the 1990s. Cobain appreciated the Jaguar’s short 24" scale length, which reduced string tension and allowed easier bending. He also often modified his Jaguars with humbucking pickups for a thicker, darker sound that was integral to Nirvana’s grungy tone. The Jaguar’s unique switching system allowed Cobain to combine both pickups in parallel for even more output. His customized and battered vintage Jaguars became iconic symbols of the grunge era.
J Mascis and the Fender Jazzmaster
As lead guitarist for influential alternative rock band Dinosaur Jr., J Mascis relied heavily on Fender Jazzmasters to craft his huge, fuzzed-out guitar sound. Mascis often sticks to the Jazzmaster’s stock pickup configuration but manipulates the tone circuitry for more distortion and sustain. He also appreciates the Jazzmaster’s comfortable offset body shape, which enables his energetic stage antics and intense soloing. Mascis’ Jazzmaster sound has become so signature that Fender released a signature model bearing his name in 2019.
Nels Cline’s Effects-Laden Jazzmaster Approach
Avant-garde jazz guitarist Nels Cline brings a wholly unique approach to the Fender Jazzmaster with experimental band Wilco. Cline outfits his Jazzmasters with an array of effects pedals, using the guitar’s inherent brightness as a canvas for swirling delays, distortions, and ambient loops. His Jazzmaster exploration reaches its peak on Wilco’s 2004 album A Ghost is Born. Cline’s Jazzmaster journeys demonstrate the instrument’s versatility beyond conventional rock genres.
Conclusion
Offset guitars occupy a unique place in the electric guitar landscape thanks to their distinctive asymmetrical body shapes and bright, biting tones. While Fender pioneered the offset design in the late 1950s with the Jazzmaster and Jaguar, today there are more models than ever from Fender and other brands to choose from.
The Jazzmaster and Jaguar have become icons, utilized by alternative and indie musicians to create signature sounds. But offsets have spread to other genres as well, from punk to metal to jazz. Their ergonomic body shapes offer comfort and easy upper fret access, making them appealing options for many players.
Key offset models like the Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Mustang, and Bass VI have their own personalities. But they share some common traits like single coil pickups and shorter scale lengths that give them a twangy, cutting voice perfect for lead lines. Brands like G&L, Reverend and Squier are also putting out great offsets that compete with Fender.
For guitarists looking for something outside the ordinary, an offset can provide the perfect ingredients of stellar playability, sparkling tone, and standout visual style. By understanding the origins and evolution of offsets, players can find their ideal model. From surf and indie rock to heavy metal, offset guitars have carved out an alternative niche while still remaining versatile instruments. For any guitarist tired of the same old shapes, an offset promises a fresh playing experience.