Fender Villager 12 String [2010-2011]

Fender originally made this model back in the 70s, you'll notice the retro headstock is similar to that of the Fender XII solidbody electric. Well like all hideous things from the 70s, this guitars back too!

This came in my local music shop and for $399 I give it a big thumbs up for its sound, pickups and onboard tuner. I have only good things to say about this guitar.

The onboard tuner rocks. Tuning a 12 string guitar is no walk in the park. The vintage style white coated tuning pegs do a fine job at looking cool as well as holding tune.

There is a factory installed strap button! This is a feature that is rare on guitars and I have no clue why. It is a simple process, but can be really stressful to player who isn't handy with a drill.

The string tree right about the synthetic bone nut keeps the strings under wrap to prevent any unwanted string buzz.

None at all for the price range of this guitar. Sure there are better playing and sounding guitars...for 3 or 4 times the price!

The Villager is made in Fender China factory. It features a solid spruce top with laminated mahogany back and sides. The neck is maple with a rosewood fretboard. All of the 20 frets can be accessed with the cutaway design of the body.

A superb choice for the gigging 12-stringer or well if you've just ever wanted to flirt with a 12-string. The onboard tuner, cutaway and Fishman pickup are great additions to a sweet sounding guitar.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com