Fender MIJ Hybrid II 2026: Minimalistic Look, Modern Design
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Fender is expanding the popular Fender MIJ Hybrid II series by introducing a host of new models, unusually tame for a Japan model. The Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, and Jazz Bass feature matte finishes and black nickel hardware.
Fender MIJ Hybrid II Stratocaster
Fender Japan models are typically known for their rather bold, eye-catching designs, this iteration of the Fender MIJ Hybrid II, however, takes a much more understated approach. What remains is the core concept of blending traditional elements from Fender’s legendary guitars and basses with modern features.
Each model comes with an alder body, maple neck, and rosewood fretboard, providing the familiar foundation we know and love, all complemented by 22 narrow-tall frets and a 9.5-inch radius. And with the Modern C neck profile, Fender is sticking to a proven design, so despite their modern look, these strats will still feel “just right” in the hand.
The more hybrid approach is most evident in the hardware and electronics. The three custom-voiced single-coil pickups, which we’ve already seen in earlier Hybrid II models, are based on the classic Strat sound but deliver a much higher output and a more defined tone. Plus, the 2-point tremolo provides better tuning stability than same vintage tremolos. All of this comes with distinctive black nickel hardware and two matte finishes: Matte Phantom Black* or Matte Aero Blue*.
Telecaster and Jazzmaster
We have a similar situation with the Telecaster and Jazzmaster models in the Fender MIJ Hybrid II series. For instance, compared to older, more retro models, this Telecaster also features a more modern design with a 9.5-inch radius, 22 frets, and a Modern C-shaped neck.
The biggest difference lies in the pickups, as this model’s 4-way switch expands the typical “twangy” Tele sounds by allowing the two single coils to be set in series for a punchier sound. The tele also comes with a vintage-style bridge with angled brass saddles and vintage-style locking tuners (on all guitars in the series) , all with black nickel hardware and in Matte Phantom Black*.
With the two Jazzmaster models in either Matte Inferno Red* or Matte Phantom Black*, Fender has simplified the offset guitars, which are otherwise often considered a bit complex and inaccessible. We’ve seen this before in signature models by Jim Root and Thurston Moore, as these don’t come with the rhythm and lead switches, just two Hybrid II Custom Voiced single-coils and a three-way switch. Both models also feature an adjustable 6-saddle vintage-style bridge with a floating tremolo tailpiece.
Fender MIJ Hybrid II Jazz Bass
Four Jazz Bass models are also part of the Fender MIJ Hybrid II lineup. Each one comes with four strings, a 34-inch scale length, a 4-saddle vintage-style bridge, vintage tuners, and two Hybrid II Custom Voiced Jazz Bass single-coil pickups.
Just like the guitars in this series, these basses feature black nickel hardware and a two-layer aluminum-style acrylic pickguard in matching color. Thomann has them in four colors: Matte Champagne Mirage*, Matte Inferno Red*, Matte Aero Blue*, and Matte Phantom Black*.
More on Fender’s latest Guitars and Basses
- Fender at Gearnews
- Website at Fender Japan (Tip: If the website keeps redirecting you to the UK/US Fender site, first switch to “Fender Japan” at the bottom, then reload)
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