The Squier Mustang is a fantastic guitar, known for its comfortable short scale and unique style, making it a favorite for players of all genres. However, one common point of discussion amongst Mustang enthusiasts is the stock pickups. While functional, many guitarists feel they don’t quite capture the vintage Mustang magic or deliver the tonal versatility they desire. Let’s delve into why upgrading the pickups on your Squier Mustang can be a game-changer and how to achieve your ideal sound.
The Stock Squier Mustang Pickup Experience
Out of the box, modern Squier Mustang and even some MIM (Made in Mexico) Mustangs often come equipped with pickups that can be described as somewhat generic. Think of them as sitting in the realm of standard Stratocaster middle or bridge pickups – decent, but lacking a distinct character. Players often find them missing the warmth and nuanced response of vintage Mustang pickups. They can sound a bit thin or uninspired, especially when compared to the sought-after tones of classic Mustangs from the 70s.
Vintage Mustang Pickup Characteristics
Speaking of vintage Mustangs, the original 70s pickups had a unique sonic profile. They weren’t overly bright like a Strat or as versatile as a Telecaster, but they possessed a mellow, balanced quality with a solid bottom end and clear highs. The key to unlocking their potential was in using the guitar’s controls. By working the volume and tone knobs, players could dial in a range of usable tones, making them surprisingly adaptable. They had a darker overall tone compared to a Stratocaster, offering a distinct voice that many guitarists appreciate.
The Japanese Mustang Advantage
If you’ve had the chance to play Japanese-made Mustang reissues, you might have noticed a difference. These guitars often come closer to capturing the essence of vintage Mustang pickups. They tend to have more usable and inspiring stock pickups compared to their modern counterparts. Some even describe them as having a slightly less bright Strat-like character, which can be very appealing. Guitars with “JD” serial numbers are particularly praised for their comfortable necks and overall quality, including their pickups.
Modern Mustangs and the Pickup Predicament
Unfortunately, the pickups in modern MIM Mustangs and Duo-Sonics often fall short of expectations. They tend to sound like just average Stratocaster pickups – not necessarily bad, but not ideal for the unique voice a Mustang should offer. Even the American Performer Mustang, while a step up, doesn’t quite nail the vintage Mustang pickup tone.
This is where the idea of upgrading your Squier Mustang pickups comes into play. Just like the author of the original article who had custom pickups made by Buddha for their Duo-Sonic, swapping out the stock pickups can breathe new life into your Mustang. Custom sets, like the Buddha pickups mentioned, can be designed to be hotter versions of the 70s Mustang sound, further enhancing their responsiveness to the volume and tone controls, similar to a Telecaster.
Unlocking Your Squier Mustang’s Potential with Upgrades
The good news is that any current Squier Mustang model can be a fantastic platform for upgrades. By replacing the pickups, you can transform a decent guitar into a tone machine. Think of legendary players like Johnny Winter, who sometimes used a Mustang, or numerous modern alt-rock bands known for their Mustang sounds (often through Fender amps). These examples highlight the potential of the Mustang platform when paired with the right pickups.
Several reputable pickup manufacturers offer excellent aftermarket options for Mustangs. Duncan, Fralin, and various custom winders all create pickups specifically designed as replacements for Mustang guitars. Exploring these options allows you to tailor your Mustang’s sound to your exact preferences, whether you’re seeking vintage warmth, hotter rock tones, or something in between.
Beyond Pickups: Switching and Tremolo
While pickups are a key aspect of the Mustang’s sound, it’s worth noting other unique features. The Mustang’s switching system, with its phase-off-phase configuration for each pickup, offers some out-of-phase tonal options. More practically, it allows for quick switching between both pickups and individual pickups using the slider switches, which some players find faster than a traditional toggle switch.
The Mustang tremolo system is also unique. When properly set up, it’s a distinctive and enjoyable feature, contributing to the guitar’s overall character.
Value and Verdict: Squier Mustang and Pickup Upgrades
In conclusion, if you’re considering a Squier Mustang, know that it’s a great value, especially for the budget-conscious player. The stock pickups might be the weakest link, but this is easily addressed with an upgrade. For those seeking the best value straight away, Japanese Mustangs are often recommended. However, for maximizing your tonal possibilities and personalizing your instrument, upgrading the pickups on a Squier Mustang is a highly effective and rewarding modification. With better pickups, your Squier Mustang can truly sing.
