Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster V4 Electric Guitar: A Comprehensive Review
The Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster V4 electric guitar is the latest iteration of a longstanding partnership between the legendary guitarist of Slipknot and Stone Sour, Jim Root, and the iconic guitar manufacturer, Fender. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, performance, and overall value that this powerful instrument has to offer.
Design and Construction
The Jim Root Jazzmaster V4 boasts a sleek, matte black finish that gives it a modern, aggressive look, fitting for the metal genres that Root is known for. The body is made from solid mahogany, which provides a warm, resonant tone that complements the heavy sound of the guitar. The bolt-on maple neck features a comfortable “C” shape profile and a smooth ebony fretboard with 22 jumbo frets, making it easy to play fast riffs and solos. The white block inlays and matching headstock add a touch of elegance to the otherwise stark design.
One of the standout features of this guitar is its minimalist control layout, which includes a single volume knob and a three-way pickup selector switch. This streamlined design allows players to focus on their playing without being distracted by unnecessary controls. The guitar also features a hardtail bridge with string-through-body construction, providing increased sustain and tuning stability.
Electronics and Hardware
The Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster V4 is equipped with a pair of powerful EMG active humbucker pickups – the EMG 81 in the bridge position and the EMG 60 in the neck position. These pickups are known for their high output and tight, focused sound, making them perfect for heavy metal and hard rock styles. The active nature of the pickups means they require a 9-volt battery to operate, but this also contributes to their clarity and responsiveness.
The hardware on this guitar is finished in black, further enhancing its stealthy appearance. The locking tuners provide excellent tuning stability, even under aggressive playing and heavy string bends. The hardtail bridge allows for precise intonation adjustments and ensures that the strings stay in tune during extended playing sessions.
Playability and Performance
The Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster V4 is designed with the needs of the modern metal guitarist in mind. The slim “C” shaped neck profile and jumbo frets make it easy to play fast runs and intricate solos, while the 12″ to 16″ compound radius fretboard allows for comfortable chording and effortless bends. The guitar’s mahogany body and maple neck combination provide a balanced tonal foundation that works well with high-gain amp settings and distortion pedals.
The EMG pickups deliver a powerful, aggressive sound that cuts through the mix in any live or recording situation. The EMG 81 is known for its razor-sharp attack and tight low-end response, making it ideal for palm-muted riffs and chunky power chords. The EMG 60, on the other hand, offers a warmer, more rounded tone that works well for clean passages and melodic lead lines. The three-way pickup selector switch allows players to quickly change between different tonal options, providing versatility despite the guitar’s minimalist control layout.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sleek, modern design with an aggressive look
- High-quality construction and materials
- Powerful, versatile EMG active humbucker pickups
- Comfortable, fast-playing neck and compound radius fretboard
- Excellent tuning stability and sustain
Cons:
- Minimalist control layout may not appeal to some players
- The matte black finish may show wear and tear more easily than other finishes
- Requires a 9-volt battery for the active pickups
Conclusion
The Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster V4 is an impressive instrument that caters to the needs of today’s metal and hard rock guitarists. Its sleek, aggressive design, high-quality construction, and powerful EMG active pickups make it a force to be reckoned with on stage and in the studio. While its minimalist control layout and matte black finish may not be for everyone, those who appreciate a streamlined, no-nonsense approach to guitar design will find a lot to love in this instrument.
Overall, the Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster V4 is an excellent option for players seeking a high-performance electric guitar that can handle the demands of heavy music styles. Its combination of playability, powerful tone, and striking appearance make it a standout choice in the world of modern electric guitars.
