Short scale. Offset style. From student sleeper to cult classic. Introduced in 1964 as a redesign of Fender’s Musicmaster and Duo-Sonic student models, the Fender Mustang began as an affordable short-scale workhorse. With its 24" (and early 22.5") scale lengths, offset body, dual single-coils, and Dynamic vibrato system, it was built for beginners—but quickly outgrew that reputation.
By the 1990s, the Mustang had become a grunge and indie-rock icon, played by artists like Kurt Cobain, Graham Coxon, Damon Albarn, Bilinda Butcher, Thurston Moore, Lee Ranaldo, Buzz Osborne, Mac DeMarco, and more. Today, it remains a go-to short-scale offset for players who want Fender chime with a slinkier feel, plus one of the most mod-friendly and alt-tuning-friendly platforms Fender has ever made.
At Chicago Music Exchange, we stock new, used, and vintage Fender and Squier Mustang models, including Player Mustang and Mustang 90, American Performer Mustang, Vintera and Vintera II ’60s/’70s Mustangs, Squier Classic Vibe Mustangs, and a rotating selection of CME Exclusive Mustang finishes and runs.
Classic Mustang DNA: Short Scale, Big Attitude
What makes the Fender Mustang unique comes down to a handful of unmistakable design traits:
- Short 24" scale length for a slinkier feel, easier bends, and a warmer, punchier tone than a Strat or Tele.
- Offset body design for comfort and stage presence, offering Jazzmaster/Jaguar vibes in a smaller package.
- Dual single-coils or MP-90 pickups, depending on the model, with simple, player-friendly switching.
- Dynamic vibrato or six-saddle hardtail bridges, giving players the choice between expressive movement or rock-solid stability.
- Finishes that evolved from simple red, white, and blue to wild Competition Mustangs with racing stripes—always carrying that rebellious, outsider energy.
Modern Fender Mustang Models You’ll See at CME
Our Mustang lineup covers every style, budget, and era, offering something for beginners, studio players, and offset collectors alike.
Player Mustang & Player Mustang 90
The modern, Mexican-made Player series keeps the classic 24" scale and offset body, while adding updated electronics and contemporary neck shapes.
- Player Mustang – Two single-coils, modern “C” neck, 9.5" radius, and three-way switching.
- Player Mustang 90 – MP-90 pickups for thicker, punchier tones, plus a six-saddle string-through hardtail bridge.
Perfect for indie, punk, garage rock, worship players, and anyone who wants bold short-scale tone with modern reliability.
Vintera & Vintera II ‘60s / ‘70s Mustang
For players who want true vintage feel, the Vintera and Vintera II Mustangs reintroduce classic specs: alder bodies, ‘60s “C” necks, 7.25" radius fingerboards, vintage-style single-coils, and floating tremolos. Many models feature period-correct colors and Competition stripes. These guitars capture the look and feel of original ‘60s and ‘70s Mustangs without needing to track down a vintage piece.
American Performer Mustang
The American Performer Mustang is built in Corona, CA, and features a 24" scale, Yosemite pickups, modern “C” necks, improved wiring, and professional-grade playability. Ideal for gigging musicians who want a USA-built short-scale offset that’s ready for recording and touring.
Squier Mustang & Classic Vibe
For players seeking affordability or a platform for heavy modding, CME carries Squier Mustang and Squier Classic Vibe Mustangs. These deliver the look, vibe, and short-scale comfort of a Mustang at a more accessible price, making them great for beginners, tinkerers, or studio experimentation.
CME Exclusive Mustangs
Chicago Music Exchange offers limited-run Mustangs available only through CME, including:
- Modern “C” necks with 9.5" radius fingerboards
- Classic pre-CBS-inspired finishes and Competition-style aesthetics
- Unique colorways and special-edition factory runs
These exclusive versions blend vintage Mustang character with modern playability you won’t find anywhere else.
Who Plays Fender Mustang Guitars?
Mustangs have a long history with indie, grunge, alternative, and experimental players. Notable users include:
- Kurt Cobain (Nirvana)
- Graham Coxon & Damon Albarn (Blur)
- Bilinda Butcher (My Bloody Valentine)
- Thurston Moore & Lee Ranaldo (Sonic Youth)
- Buzz Osborne (Melvins)
- Mac DeMarco, Liz Phair, Rory Gallagher, Adrian Belew, Ben Gibbard, and others
This association continues to drive interest today, especially for players seeking short-scale guitars for fuzz, alt tunings, shoegaze textures, or noisy experimental music.
Why Buy a Mustang from Chicago Music Exchange?
- A dedicated Mustang collection with new, used, vintage, and Squier models all in one place.
- CME Exclusive Mustangs you won’t find anywhere else.
- Expert staff who genuinely love offsets and short-scale guitars.
- Professional setups, accurate listings, and detailed photography on every instrument.
If you’re searching for a short-scale offset, Player Mustang 90, Vintera Mustang, Kurt Cobain-style Mustang, or a vintage original, CME offers one of the most complete Mustang selections available.
Fender Mustang FAQ
Q: When was the Fender Mustang introduced?
A: The Fender Mustang was introduced in 1964 as a redesign of Fender’s student models, featuring a 24" scale and offset body.
Q: Are Mustang guitars short scale?
A: Yes. Most Mustangs have a 24" scale, with some early models offering a 22.5" “3/4 scale” option.
Q: What’s the difference between the Player Mustang and Mustang 90?
A: The Player Mustang uses classic single-coils, while the Mustang 90 uses MP-90 pickups for thicker, P-90-style tones and includes a six-saddle hardtail bridge.
Q: Why do indie and grunge players like Mustangs?
A: Mustangs are easy to mod, great for alt tunings, work beautifully with fuzz, and offer a slinky short-scale feel that players in indie, grunge, and shoegaze love.
Q: Does Chicago Music Exchange sell vintage Mustangs?
A: Yes. We regularly stock vintage ‘60s and ‘70s Mustangs as well as a full range of modern Fender, Squier, and CME Exclusive models.
