Fender Shawn Mendes Foundation MusicMaster Guitar

Introducing this Fender Shawn Mendes signature

Another very rare instrument in Martinique (it’s probably the only one)! The lutherie workshop Esprit Guitare had the privilege of receiving this splendid guitar Fender Shawn Mendes Foundation MusicMaster for a review.

Some guitarists like rare instruments. The owner of this beautiful MusicMaster had already entrusted me with several extraordinary guitars, notably the splendid Fender Telecaster American Pro HS produced in only 150 copies, and of which I recently published the revision. I really enjoy working on rare instruments. Especially when they are of high quality. So obviously, when I see guitars like that arriving at the workshop, I can’t wait to examine them!

This MusicMaster Shawn Mendes Signature is in excellent condition but has some minor electronic issues. The selector switch is a little capricious, once again, and it has some sputtering at the volume knob. Furthermore, good adjustment is required, on this model which has remained adjusted as originally.

The original settings (those applied when leaving the factory or store) are very rarely ideal. Sellers/builders probably want to make a “one-size-fits-all” setting, not knowing who will play the instrument. Suddenly, this “goes everywhere” becomes a “goes nowhere”, in my opinion. But I digress… Let’s get back to this lovely MusicMaster.

Work completed

We start by dismantling the electronics to do a major check. Disassembly, complete cleaning and reassembly of the selector switch, then cleaning the potentiometers to give them a facelift. Test: everything is OK!

Then we move on to the complete overhaul: removing the strings, checking and tightening the screws, checking the mechanics, dismantling, cleaning and reassembling the bridge, cleaning and polishing the body and neck, checking and partial correction of the fret leveling, polishing the frets.

Finally, installation of new strings and adjustment of the truss rod and saddles for low action and impeccable intonation.

Conclusion

Too bad it’s so rare, because it’s an excellent guitar. In addition to its sexy and refined look, the handle is very pleasant, combining fluidity and softness. The passive electronics perfectly highlight this fine and elegant side, with sounds that are sometimes warm and sometimes slamming, depending on the configuration of the microphones selected. Always well balanced, the sound is unique!

I always finish my work by trying out the guitars. You have to check that all the elements are working normally, test the comfort of the neck, look for the last little tuning improvements to be made… And sometimes the test extends beyond what is really necessary… Just for the pleasure of playing on a beautiful instrument…

Thank you to the lucky owner of this little gem for entrusting it to Esprit Guitare 😉

Photos

The Esprit Guitare workshop

The Esprit Guitare lutherie workshop welcomes you by appointment for maintenance, repair, setup or customization of guitars, bass, ukulele and more 😉
Feel free to contact us or book an appointment.

Esprit Guitare – a passion for instruments in Martinique.

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