The only reason I give the sound a 9 is because Japanese-made Jazzmasters don't have authentic Jazzmaster pickups -- they look like them, but they're wound like Stratocaster pickups. They sound nice, but not like a Jazzmaster. However, once you replace the pickups with quality Jazzmaster pickups (e.g. Lollars) the sound is amazing.

The block inlays are rare and beautiful. The vintage satin finish on the neck and headstock is gorgeous and easy on your hands. The famous Jazzmaster/Jaguar vibrato stays in tune and gives you a subtle, emotional vibrato that you can't get on a Strat or Floyd Rose. It also stays in tune a lot better. The original bridges on all Jazzmasters and Jaguars are known to be quirky. Personally, I replaced mine with a Mastery Bridge, which improved performance and sustain -- but, this is a personal choice, not a particular problem with this model of Jazzmaster.

The shape of the neck is extremely comfortable in my hands. The finish is smooth. The string tension and fretboard feel is easy on the fingertips -- more like a Les Paul than a Stratocaster

The construction is top notch.

Even factoring in an upgrade or two, this guitar is a fantastic value. It's very well made. It's gorgeous, it plays well, it stays in tune, it sounds heavenly -- fatter, rounder and more nuanced than a typical Strat.

Active Musician

Rock, Experimental, older styles

Warm but with grunt when you need it.

Not a lot. Would be better if fender sold their Japanese guitars in a case given their great build quality.

Not a problem!

Better made and finished than my American Fenders.

Yes

Jazz, Surf and Rock