Squier J5 Telecaster John 5 signature Frost Gold John 5 Signature

General

The Squier by Fender J5 Telecaster Frost Gold RW is a replica of what John's wife calls 'John's lover'. John 5 is an avid Telecaster player and has an extensive collection of these Fender classic guitars. This Squier by Fender version is equipped with two humbuckers that produce the big rock sound that John 5 is known for. Additionally, this guitar is capable of bringing forth a clear, clean sound, but it is at its best when you really pull out all the stops. You can keep a lid on your bank account though, as this Squier by Fender version is very affordable.

Humbuckers

Contrary to traditional Telecasters, this J5 Tele features two humbucking pickups. The neck pickup is fitted with alnico 5 magnets and the bridge pickup is equipped with a ceramic one to make this J5 Telecaster the powerful beast that it is. Also, this guitar features a three-position pickup switch, two volume controls and no tone control. When you rapidly move the three-position switch back and forth, it creates the kill effect that is so distinctive for John 5. The volume potentiometers are contra-connected to the humbuckers. The volume control next to the neck operates the bridge pickup and the other one controls the neck pickup. John 5 chose to set it up this way as he uses the bridge pickup most.

Similarities

The alder body forms the heart of this J5 Telecaster, just like it would on a traditional Tele. A four-screw connection holds the one-piece maple neck to the body. The neck has a modern C shape for more comfortable playing and features a laurel fretboard with pearloid position markers. The bridge has six adjustable saddles and a string-through-body construction which pairs excellently with the alder body, providing a better resonance. This Frost Gold edition is tastefully finished with a gold-coloured polyester lacquer on both the body and the headstock. The cherries on top are the gold-coloured hardware and reflecting pickguard.

• Please note: the guitar in the videos is the black and chrome version.